June/July Sand & Pine by Sand & Pine

June/July 2022

SAND & PINE

Stargazing Look Up

Beat the Heat Sandhills Guide

Sweet Corn Summer Staple

The story began in 2020. Two people brought together by chance to create:

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BBQ HAS ARRIVED

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2 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Meet Donathon Stover I strive to demonstrate the highest level of integrity and commitment, and to bring a little fun into every transaction. I've lived here my entire life and I love North Carolina...as much as I love my profession! As a native of the Sandhills, my intimate knowledge of this region gives me an enthusiasm and a desire to make my home your home. I work with buyers and sellers, and cater to those relocating to the Sandhills area or purchasing a second home. While working in partnership with you to understand your needs and to best represent your interests, I will help you realize your real estate goals quickly and positively. Don’t miss learning why you should call The Sandhills area your home!

Each office is independently owned and operated

DONATHAN STOVER 910.639.1039 195 SHORT ST SOUTHERN PINES NC 28387 www.SandandPineMag.com | 3

contents 12

Look Up

SAND & PINE

Scientists believe there are 200 billion galaxies in the universe, but even that number could be significantly lower than the truth. Feeling small?

Sandhills Summer

At the Table

It’s hot, so what to do? Well, there’s things to drink, things to eat and things to celebrate. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

Sweet corn is the quintessential summer side, so we felt it was appropriate to celebrate this vegetable/grain with a few delicious recipes.

June/July 2022

Pub People

Greg Girard, Amanda Jakl

SA N D & P IN E

Storysmith

Greg Girard greg@sandandpinemag.com

Creative Conjuror

Amanda Jakl amanda@sandandpinemag.com

Word Geek

William C. Nelson

Stargazing

Look Up Beat the Heat

On the Cover “If you are in a spaceship that is traveling at the speed of light and you turn on the headlights, does anything happen?” – Steven Wright

Sandhills Guide

Sweet Corn

Summer Staple

Ad Peddler

Debbie Jordan debbie@sandandpinemag.com

Contributing Scribblers

Larry Allen, Darcy Connor, Christin Daubert, Jamie Doom, Sheree Lancaster, Robert Nason, Amanda Oden

Visual Alchemist Steven Jordan

4 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

P.O. Box 892 Southern Pines, NC 28388 Tel. 910.315.0467 info@sandandpinemag.com www.sandandpinemag.com facebook: SandandPineMag

Quicksand 6

38 Parenting in the Pines

Who would have guessed we have so much in common with flamingo parents. We love our kids dearly, but they can drain us of all our color.

45 Dropping In

As always, we like see what’s going on around our towns. Nothing formal, of course, we just like to drop in and say hello.

Good Reads

Garden Variety

Beer Matters

Shop Local

Be Inspired

Parenting in the Pines

Moolah

Music

On the Fly 44 Puzzles

Last Word

editor note I got dragged into signing up for another streaming service. I

wanted to watch the UEFA Champions League semifinals and Paramount+ was the only outlet available to watch it. I signed up for the free first week, thinking I’ll just dump it right after enjoying my Liverpool steamroll past Villarreal, but as soon as I logged in I remembered this particular streaming service has Star Trek Picard, among other shows in the Star Trek universe, and suddenly my credit card was getting hit with another monthly fee. With a family of four and varying entertainment interests, adding another streaming service is not the most fiscally responsible move, but my justification seemed appropriate; it’s Star Trek, after all. Now, this may spike the geek meter past 11, but in getting fully sucked into Star Trek Picard, I got to thinking about the stars, the possibilities of space (sans the Borg ... told you the geek meter would spike) and the vastness of the universe. Carl Sagan, the famous astronomer of the late 20th century, said, “Who are we? We find that we live on an insignificant planet of a humdrum star lost in a galaxy tucked away in some forgotten corner of a

by Greg Girard

universe in which there are far more galaxies than people.” I can’t help thinking about that quote when I look up at night. And oddly, it often helps me let go of the insignificant worries that have a way of cropping up in my mind. Realizing my insignificance in relation to the awesome realm of space and the difficulty to fully comprehend it’s Brobdingnagian scope brings me a sense of calm and perspective—don’t sweat the small stuff, literally. Last Father’s Day, I was promised a telescope as my interest in astronomy has grown since I tapped on one story in Apple News (another monthly fee) which subsequently brought up hundreds of stories on space. I was told to do my own research and pick out the one I like (thanks for the effort, fam!), which I dutifully began to do on that special Sunday in June. It took just a few minutes for me to be completely overwhelmed. What’s the right aperture? Do I get a refractor, reflector or compound telescope and what’s the difference? Do I get one that works with my iPhone? What about focal length? It became so confusing, I simply gave up. Fortunately, another Father’s Day is just around the corner and it was mentioned that maybe I should try again. Maybe I will. Although first, I should probably ask myself, what would Picard do? www.SandandPineMag.com | 5

QUICKSAND BY THE NUMBERS » OCEANS

Percent of the Earth’s surface that is covered by ocean. Less than 5 percent of the oceans' depths have been explored by humans. The Mid-Ocean Ridge, which is the planet’s longest chain of mountains stretching for more than 40,300 miles, has been less explored than Venus or Mars. In comparison, the longest mountain range above water is the Andes at 4,300 miles long. Also at 70 percent is the amount of oxygen marine plants produce for the planet.

Percent of living species on Earth that live in the ocean. The World Register of Marine Species lists 240,470 ocean species but experts believe that is only scratching the surface of marine life, with new aquatic species being discovered almost daily.

1000

Estimated number of shipwrecks lying off the Florida Keys. There are believed to be more than 3 million shipwrecks worldwide, with the oldest dating back 10,000 years. There are more historic artifacts under the oceans than in all the world’s museums.

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60M

Number of square miles of the Pacific Ocean, the largest ocean on Earth. The Pacific’s average depth is 13,000 feet and there are about 25,000 islands in it. The Arctic Ocean is the smallest, covering an area of 6.1 million square miles. Still, the Arctic Ocean is about 1.5 times larger than the United States.

750

The temperature, in Fahrenheit, of water at the deepest levels of the ocean. The incredibly hot water comes from hydrothermal vents on the seafloor. The water is prevented from boiling by the intense pressure at those depths, a pressure that would literally crush humans.

20M

Number, in tons, of gold estimated to be in the oceans. According to bestlife.com, that equates to about 9 pounds of gold for each living person on Earth.

262

Number of feet the oceans would rise if all the glaciers and sea ice melted at the same time. This is just about the height of the Statue of Liberty.

LOOK, LISTEN & LEARN

OUTER SANDBOX

Dead Eyes Comedian and actor Connor Ratliff sets off on a journey to answer a simple question that has bothered him for most of his adult life: Why Tom Hanks fired him from a small role on the 2001 HBO miniseries Band of Brothers. If you are worried the podcast will end on a cliffhanger or an unsatisfying ending, don’t be. The last episode of the second season is a fantastic interview with the object of his attention: Tom Hanks himself.

Babbel Sure, DuoLingo is free and quirky (their whole owl motif can be a little much), but if you’re looking to learn practical language skills before you hit the beaches of Costa Rica or the streets of Strasbourg, consider investing in Babbel. Babbel breaks down language learning in 10–15 minute sessions so you can squeeze them in without too much fuss. You’ll be asking for directions or another cocktail with ease in no time.

NASA The NASA app is perfect for those “eyes to the sky” folks and future astronauts. Want to track the International Space Station? Or stay on top of space missions? The app has it. In addition to thousands of images and videos that could keep a junior astronomer busy for hours, you can also listen to Third Rock internet streaming radio or watch live NASA TV. If we find life on other planets, don’t you want to be one of the first to know?

ROAD TRIP! Road trip! Beyond the boundaries of our little sandbox, there is much to see. Here are a few events worth checking out. For events with a more local flavor, check out moorechoices.net. And check with locales before heading out! THROUGH OCTOBER Tweetsie Railroad Blowing Rock | tweetsie.com Giddy up, partners and mosey on over to a Wild West themed amusement park near Blowing Rock. Tweetsie Railroad features a 3-mile ride aboard an old-fashioned coal-powered steam locomotive, an assortment of live shows, lots of thrilling rides, a zoo and gold panning and gem mining. JULY 1–2 Christmas in July West Jefferson | christmasinjulyinfo.ipage.com A festival started to celebrate the Christmas tree industry that Ashe County is well known for, the Christmas in July Festival has grown into an event that draws thousands to this quaint mountain town. Enjoy music, food and clogging, and get Santa your Christmas list early! JULY 14–16 NC Peach Festival Candor | ncpeachfestival.com Those who say peaches are just for Georgia have nothing on the NC Peach Festival. The homemade peach ice cream is a must-try. This year only, the festival will span three days. Even better, this festival is just across the county line in Montgomery County ... only a hop, skip and a jump away. There’s no reason to miss it!

QUOTES “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes ... including you.”

– Anne Lamott

“To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge.”

– Nicolaus Copernicus www.SandandPineMag.com | 7

TO YOUR HEALTH

Health Tips Know Your Numbers Your blood pressure numbers, that is. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is known as the silent killer. It is not uncommon to have no or few symptoms while having high blood pressure. If caught early, hypertension can be treated and controlled.

Unchecked, and the list of issues that can arise is staggering. Heart attack, stroke, heart failure, vision loss, kidney failure, dementia and erectile dysfunction are just a few. Testing is as easy as going to the self-testing cuff chair at the pharmacy. And of course your doctor should be checking it at your annual physical. Which you’re doing, right? Take the stairs We’re not talking the stair master at the gym, although if you’re doing that, good for you. Skipping the elevator is good for your heart—it protects against

hypertension, it works your legs, abs, back and arms and joints, and it aids in maintaining flexibility. It also burns more calories than jogging, about five to 11 calories per minute, using about seven times more energy than taking the elevator. Best of all, it’s a stress reliever. Probably because your thighs will be burning so much and your lungs will be huffing and puffing so much that you forget how stressed you really are. Cheap therapy is just a couple flights away.

Tan those shrooms Before you slice up those mushrooms for a salad, place them on a window sill for about twenty minutes. Mushrooms are similar to our skin (as gross as that sounds) and convert sunlight to vitamin D. By exposing your shrooms to UV light for a bit before eating them, you can increase the vitamin D almost eightfold. And since vitamin D plays an important role in our immune system and metabolism, juicing up our shrooms isn’t a bad idea.

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8 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

JULY 4 Battle for Independence Wilmington 5K, 1M runsignup.com

Live Lightly Tips on living a more sustainable life

If you can believe it, about a third of our treated drinking water is used to water our lawns. Reduce the use of your sprinkler system by at least one day, (it’s rare that any plants need to be watered daily) and water in the mornings before the sun is up to reduce evaporation. Consider setting up a rain barrel and water your flower beds and gardens with it. Ideally, plant a more earthfriendly yard by incorporating native perennials and bushes that thrive on normal rainfall and can support bee and butterfly populations. And if you are really inspired, get rid of your grass lawn all together. Just think, no lawn means less work in the summer!

SEPTEMBER 3 Weymouth Woods Trail Run Southern Pines 25K, 50K runsignup.com

www.SandandPineMag.com | 9

Good Reads by Darcy Connor

Preschool/Toddler Yummy Yucky Written and Illustrated by Leslie Patricelli

“Spaghetti is yummy. Worms are yucky. Soup is yummy. Soap is yucky.” This adorable board book by Leslie Patricelli is part of a series of opposites books. Learning opposites is an important development of a child’s growth in understanding specific concepts, like light and dark, hard and soft. It also helps children develop skills of describing things and expressing themselves. Yummy Yucky, along with Quiet Loud, No No Yes Yes and others will have your little one giggling and learning at the same time.

Picture Book

The Watermelon Seed Written and Illustrated by Greg Pizzoli

The cute crocodile in The Watermelon Seed has only one fear: swallowing a watermelon seed. That’s a big problem, though, because the one thing the crocodile loves most is eating watermelon! “I like it for breakfast. I like it for lunch. I like a big salty slab for dinner … and I LOVE it for dessert!” he says. But what will happen if he accidently eats a seed? Will he turn pink? Will he sprout vines out his ears? The crocodile’s imagination starts to run wild, and your young reader will love every minute of it.

Upper Elementary School The Feather Chase (The Crime-Solving Cousins Mysteries) Book 1 Written by Shannon L. Brown

In the same vein as the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew, writer Shannon L. Brown brings together two 12-yearold cousins, Sophie and Jessica, for a thrilling whodunit caper. The girls couldn’t be more different. One loves shopping and the bustle of the city; the other loves the outdoors and solitude. When they come across a mysterious briefcase in the woods and are suddenly being chased by bad guys, they must rely on each other’s strengths to overcome the odds and solve the mystery. The perfect summer read for upper elementary/early middle school readers. Psst … I have a feeling you’ll enjoy it too!

10 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Middle School Amal Unbound

Written by Aisha Saeed

Twelve-year-old Amal’s dream of becoming a teacher one day is wiped out in an instant when she accidentally insults a member of her Pakistani village’s ruling family. As punishment, she is forced into indentured servitude at the ruling family’s estate. Her life has been completely turned upside down. Determined to persevere, Amal begins to navigate the complexities of a completely new world from her quiet, peaceful home. Jealousies, backstabbing and intrigue swirl through the servant class as she also begins to learn the deadly extent the ruling family will go to in order to keep power. It soon becomes clear to Amal that she must find a way to work with others to change the power dynamic if she is to ever fulfill her dreams.

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The Book of Cold Cases Written by Simone St. James

My review of the The Feather Chase inspired me to seek out this book from the author of the New York Times bestseller The Sun Down Motel. In 1977, a small town in Oregon was upended by the Lady Killer Murders: Two men, seemingly randomly, were murdered with the same gun, with strange notes left behind. Beth Greer was the prime suspect. She was a rich, eccentric 23-year-old woman who was seen fleeing one of the crimes. Eventually acquitted of the charges, Beth retreated to the isolation of her mansion. Fast forward 40 years and Shea Collins is a receptionist who also runs a true crime website, The Book of Cold Cases, a passion she was inspired to create by an attempted abduction she escaped as a child. When she meets Beth by chance, Shea asks her for an interview. Beth, surprisingly, agrees. Shea meets Beth regularly at Beth’s mansion, but there’s something about the place that never settles right with Shea. Was that a girl in the upstairs window? Is there more going on in the mansion than meets the eye? As Shea delves deeper, more questions emerge, most importantly, is Beth a newfound friend or a devious, manipulative murderer?

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www.SandandPineMag.com | 11

Look Up | S | |

Let the Stars be Your Guide pace. The enormity of it is beyond human comprehension. Our solar system, which consists of the sun, eight planets, dwarf planets like Pluto, moons, asteroids, meteoroids and comets, is all just a grain of sand in the sweep of the wider universe. Scientists estimate there are more than 100 billion galaxies out there, each containing many billions of stars, which of course support their own solar systems. The scale of space overwhelms. The first astronomical observations ever recorded were around 1,000 BC in Mesopotamia, as the first astronomers began noting the movement of celestial bodies. The Greeks were the first to begin thinking about scale and the distance of objects in the sky. In the second century BC, the Greek astronomer Hipparchus was able to catalog nearly 1,000 stars, fixing their positions to within one degree. Human curiosity at the heavens has never abated. Astronomy is a serious science, but it is also a fascinating hobby that anyone can enjoy—no equipment needed. All you truly need is a basic guidebook and a desire to learn. “The universe is under no obligation to make sense to you,” said astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. But Tyson would agree that this doesn’t mean we don’t try. Curiosity is what has always pushed humankind forward, and the last frontier is just waiting to be discovered by anyone willing to simply look up.

12 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Learning the Night Sky - A Beginner’s Guide Start with binoculars: No need to rush out and by an expensive telescope before you’re a seasoned stargazer. The world of telescopes is extensive and intimidating, and can lead to buyer’s remorse if you don’t do your research first. Experts suggest grabbing a quality set of binoculars first, as this will offer a plethora of objects to explore. Maps & guides: Find them online, purchase them at a bookstore or borrow them from friends. No point in looking up with any interest unless you know what you’re looking at. Sky & Telescope Magazine has free guides and information at their website skyandtelescope.org that will help get you started. Join a club: We couldn’t find any clubs in our immediate area, but there are a few in the Triangle area, including Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observation Society (chaosastro.org) and the Raleigh Astronomy Club, Inc. (raleighastro.org). Who knows, maybe they can help you start a club down here. Find a dark place: If you live in the tri-town area, we are in Class 5 on the Bortle scale (see terminology section), however, the more rural you go the better the viewing. Robbins, for instance, is a Class 4. The best place to view stars in North Carolina is in Pisgah State Park and Pisgah National Forest, which offers Class 2 viewing. Remember to let your eyes adapt to the darkness. Full “dark adaptation” takes about a ½ hour— time needed for your eyes to relax and your pupils to open. And careful with your phones and other technologies. If they turn on, you’ll be back to square one. Use a red filter on your tech to protect your night vision.

Look Up | | | | Did you know?

The moon keeps getting farther away from Earth, about 3.8 centimeters per year.

www.SandandPineMag.com | 13

Look Up | | | | Did you know?

Good to Know Celestial Terminology

There are more stars in the universe than grains of sand on Earth.

Bortle class: Named after amateur astronomer John E. Bortle, the Bortle scale is a measure of the sky’s darkness, ranging from Class 1, the darkest skies on Earth, to Class 9, inner-city skies. According to clearoutside.com, the Pinehurst/Southern Pines/Aberdeen area has a Bortle class of 5, which puts us right in the middle of sky quality. In urban areas with strong light pollution, people looking up may only see 500 stars in the sky, whereas in places like the Atacama Desert in Chile and the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand, star gazers can view up to 15,000 individual lights in the sky. Planisphere: A planisphere is a star map that shows which constellations are visible throughout the year. This is a great way to begin learning the different constellations and preparing to spot them. There are also a number of apps that will help you identify the constellations and planets, like SkyView and Night Sky. Constellations: Constellations are groups of stars that were named for their unique shapes or configurations. These star groups have been suffused with spiritual and mythological meaning, and have inspired the belief system of astrology, which attributes to the movement of the stars influences on human behavior. There are 88 recognized constellations in the sky. There are also smaller groups of stars called asterisms. The best known asterism is the Big Dipper, which is part of the Ursa Major constellation. Celestial Coordinates: A grid system for locating things in the sky. It’s anchored to the celestial poles (directly above Earth’s north and south poles) and the celestial equator (directly above Earth’s equator). Light Year: The distance that light (moving at about 186,000 miles per second) travels in one year, or about 6 trillion miles. Galaxy: A vast collection of stars, gas, and dust, containing billions of stars (from galaxias kyklos, Greek for “circle of milk,” used to describe our own Milky Way). Galaxies may be spiral (with one or more spiral-shape arms), elliptical (shaped more like fuzzy footballs with no distinguishing features), or irregular (chaotic appearance). Universe: All existing matter and space considered as a whole; the cosmos. The observable universe is believed to be approximately 93 billion light years in diameter and contains a vast number of galaxies; it has been expanding since its creation in the Big Bang about 13 billion years ago. Zenith: The point in the sky directly overhead.

14 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

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Look Up | | | | Did you know?

The moon is lemon-shaped and not round. It has flattened poles and an equator that slightly bulges.

Telescope Basics Picking the best telescope for you can be a daunting task. There are three different types: refractors, reflectors and compound. Refractor telescopes have a lens at the front of the tube. Reflector telescopes gather light using a mirror at the end of the tube. Compound telescopes use both lenses and mirrors. It’s a misconception that the stronger the magnification, the better the telescope. Collecting light is more important, helping your eye observe more. When shopping for a telescope, keep in mind two important details: aperture and focal length. Aperture is the diameter of the telescope’s main mirror or lens. The bigger the aperture, the more light your telescope can gather, allowing observation of fainter objects in the sky. The Gran Telescopio Canarias, the largest optical telescope in the world, has an aperture of 10.4 meters. For backyard viewing, it’s recommended that a telescope have at least a 70 mm aperture. Focal length is the distance from the main optic to the point where the image is formed. So a short focal length will give a wide field of view but the objects will appear small. A long focal length has a narrow field of view but the objects will appear larger. Focal length will determine the magnification power of the telescope, and it is determined by dividing the focal length by the size of the eyepiece. For example, a telescope with a 500 mm focal length using a 25 mm eyepiece will have 20x magnification. Most telescopes come with a couple different size eyepieces so that you can adjust magnification. What telescope is right for you depends on your interests. There are certain telescopes that are better for photography, for example, or for using technology. The ins and outs of telescopes involve much more detail than we can address in these pages. A great online resource is astrobackyard.com.

Look Up | | | | Did you know?

Polaris, the North Star, is not the brighest star in the sky. The brighest is Sirius.

16 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Beauty | Boudoir | Fine Art Nude | Maternity

S H I R AW RO S E .C O M

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»» Deep summer is when laziness

finds respectability. - Sam Keen

s y a D y z a L »» »»»» »» »» »» »» »»

Summer! Some of you will head to the beach, some to the mountains, others to destinations farther afield. For the rest of us, we’ll be enjoying the hot, sticky, summer days right here in the Sandhills. If you land in that group, don’t despair! There are plenty of activities to keep us busy. There is ice cream to eat, cocktails to savor , pools to swim in, and drive-in movies to watch. And don’t forget our local Fourth of July celebrations. So make sure you have sunscreen and bug spray to keep those burns and bugs at a minimum, and here is our guide to summer fun right in our own little slice of heaven. Have fun, play safe and make some memories!

18 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

r e m m u S of Make A Splash ... and don't pee in the pool! Whispering Pines Country Club 2 Clubhouse Boulevard, Whispering Pines Fees: Must be a member; $599 for the season

Hillcrest Park Splash Pad 155 Hillcrest Park Lane, Carthage Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Fees: Free!

FirstHealth Centers for Health & Fitness 170 Memorial Dr., Pinehurst Fees: Must be a FirstHealth Fitness member; $20-$124 per month, depending on member level

»» »»»» »» »» »» »» »»

Rassie Wicker Park Splash Pad 10 Rassie Wicker Drive, Pinehurst Hours: 10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Fees: Free!

Southern Pines Splash Pad 730 S Henley Street, Southern Pines Hours: 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Fees: Free! Southern Pines Elks Lodge 1692 280 Country Club Circle, Southern Pines Monday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Must be Elk or Elk Pool Member Fees: $180-300 for individual and family season memberships Pinehurst Country Club Pool Complex 80 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst Fees: Must be a Pinehurst CC member

Lawn and Tennis Club 1 Merrywood Place, Pinehurst Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fees: $300-450 for individual and family season memberships Southern Pines Pool Park 735 S Stephens Street, Southern Pines Hours: 12:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., closed Sunday Fees: $1-4, depending on age and residence

Summer bachelors, like summer breezes, are never as cool as they pretend to be . - Nora Ephron »» www.SandandPineMag.com | 19

Lazy Days of Summer

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it. - Russell Baker

»»

»» »»»» »» »» »» »» »»

What We’re Eating (and drinking) All Summer Easy Pink Lemonade Pie tasteofhome.com 2-3/4 cups coarsely crushed

1/4 cup cold water

saltines (about 60 crackers)

1 envelope unflavored gelatin

1 cup sugar, divided

2 packages (8 ounces each)

1/2 cup butter, melted

cream cheese, softened

2 cups sliced fresh or frozen

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

sliced strawberries, thawed

Lemon slices, optional

1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine crushed crackers and 1/4 cup sugar with melted butter. Using the bottom of a glass, press cracker mixture onto bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-in. deep-dish pie plate. Bake until set, 15-18 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. Combine strawberries, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice and zest; let stand 10 minutes. Meanwhile, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand 5 minutes. Transfer strawberry mixture to a food processor or blender; pulse until smooth. Microwave gelatin on high until melted, about 10 seconds; stir into strawberry mixture. Beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until smooth. Gradually beat in cream and strawberry mixture. Transfer filling to crust. Refrigerate, covered, until set, about 2 hours. If desired, top with lemon slices.

Ranch Water acouplecooks.com

Lillet Spritz acouplecooks.com

3 ounces tequila (better the tequila, better the drink)

2 ounces Lillet Blanc

4 ounces Topo Chico sparkling mineral water

½ ounce simple syrup

(chilled)*

or maple syrup

Juice of one lime (about 1.5 ounces)

2 ounces gin

2 ounces soda water

Ice

1 ounce fresh lemon

For the garnish: Sprig

Add the tequila and lime juice to highball glass and stir. Fill with ice and top with sparkling water. Garnish with a lime wedge. Alter the ratio to your own taste.

20 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

juice

of lavender or thyme

Stir the Lillet Blanc, gin, lemon juice and simple syrup together in a glass. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water. Garnish with lavender or thyme.

B U S I N E S S

I C E B R E A K E R

A D V E R T I S I N G

S U P P L E M E N T

Embers BBQ

130 SW Broad St., Southern Pines 910.692.3902 embersbbq.com

Established in 2022, Embers BBQ set out to offer a different cuisine in downtown Southern Pines. Owners JP Longueil and David Bungarz are creating a casual atmosphere yet serving seriously good food. The story of Embers BBQ began two years ago, with two talented guys brought together by chance. JP is a golfer by trade and a foodaholic by choice. A former touring professional who has traveled the world seeking to play the best courses against the best players, JP played on every continent that has a golf course. In 2020, he decided settle down and call the Sandhills home. David is a chef by trade and, well, a chef by choice too. He also has a varied background in maintenance, golf course operations and the culinary fields. David came to

the Sandhills in 1996 after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. In 2021, they decided to set out on a journey to create some of the finest authentic BBQ in the Sandhills. The location of the former Broad Street Bakery became the ideal location, nestled in the historic district of Southern Pines—the perfect setting to set up the smoker, season the meats and open the doors! Pulled pork BBQ and brisket smoked low and slow. Smoked burgers and pulled chicken sandwiches. Brisket egg and cheese sandwiches for breakfast. Full menu of flavor-filled sides. Visit us today to enjoy the best BBQ in the Sandhills!

www.SandandPineMag.com | 21

Lazy Days of Summer

»» »»»» »» »» »» »» »»

What We’re Watching Badin Road Drive In 2411 Badin Rd Albemarle, North Carolina Adults: $7.00 Children 6-11: $5.00 Children 5 and under: free Cash only, ATM available on site Movie starts at dark, gate opens at 6:30 p.m. Foxfire Village - Village Green Park June 10 at 8:30 p.m. - Encanto Aberdeen – Aberdeen Lake Park July 15 at 8:30pm–Sing 2 August 18 at 8:15pm–Encanto September 16 at 7:15pm–Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Movies start at dark At the Sunrise First Friday Concert Series June 3 –Rebekah Todd July - No show August 5 - Dangermuffin Free admission, food vendors on site, 5-8:00 p.m

What We’re Scooping The Ice Cream Parlor 176 NW Broad Street, So. Pines Carthage Creamery 209 Dowd Rd, Carthage Ben’s Ice Cream 1515 NC Highway 211, Eagle Springs Cold Stone Creamery 11088 US-15, Aberdeen Scruton Brothers 225 W Morganton Road, So. Pines Purple Penguin 150 Brucewood Road, So. Pines Dunrovin Country Store 5456 US Hwy 1, Vass Dairy Queen 835 Pinecrest School Rd, So. Pines Sweet Carolina 108 W Main Street, Aberdeen Scrollicious 211 Central Park Avenue, Pinehurst Stellar Scoops 305 Branson Circle, Robbins Highlanders Farm 5784 NC-22, Carthage

What We’re Celebrating FourthFest July 3–4, Pinehurst Village Center/Tufts Memorial Park/ Harness Track Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; 6 p.m. – 9:15 p.m. On July 3, fireworks at the Harness Track, starting at 6 p.m., children’s activities include pony rides, hayrides, bounce houses, and more. Food and beverages available, and picnic baskets are allowed. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Fireworks begin approximately 9:15 p.m. Gates open at 4:00 p.m. On July 4, the pet parade starts at 9:45 a.m. in the village center, followed by the parade, music and farmers market at the Tufts Memorial park. 4th of July Celebration July 4, Fort Bragg Main Post Parade Field Time: 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Activities include music, with Walker Hayes 22 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

headlining, parachute free-fall demonstrations, the popular flag ceremony, fireworks, and food and beverages. Pets, glass bottles, and BBQ grills are not allowed. All tents and shelters must be erected in the designated tent area, space is limited. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early due to heavy traffic flow. The event is free and open to the public. Fun Family Fourth of July July 4, Aberdeen Aberdeen Lake Park Time: Kids activities start at 5:00pm, live entertainment starts at 6:00 p.m. Live entertainment, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Kid’s Zone with rock-climbing wall, inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle course, and more. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Pets, alcoholic beverages, personal fireworks, and coolers are not allowed. Fireworks will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m.

Little Wild Ones (4-7 years)

Children join us for weekly play experiences that are not only incredibly fun and meaningful, but they challenge the mind and body in our outdoor classrooms, mud puddles, and more! Run by our expert TimberNook providers, Little Wild One’s therapeutic curriculum takes play and learning to a whole new level.

Tiny Ones (1.5-4 years)

Tiny Ones is designed for the smallest of our TimberNook adventurers. You and your child will venture outdoors for creative play opportunities that foster healthy child development. You’ll also receive weekly ideas on how to inspire independent play at home. and Little Wild Ones < > Tiny OnesEnrolling Now!

Gross & Fine Motor Skills Creativity Auditory Processing Social Skills Visual Skills Attention Emotional

Fall - Spring Tiny Ones (1.5-4 years) Little Wild Ones (4-7 years) Wild Ones (7 – 12 years) Parents Night Out Field Trips

of the Sandhills

dauphine.sisk@timbernook.com |

timbernook.com |

www.SandandPineMag.com | 23 910.595.6069

Garden Beat the Heat with Malabar Spinach G

BY L A R RY ALLEN N.C. Cooperative Extension Service Master Gardener Volunteer

24 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

ardening in the South certainly presents its challenges in the summer months. High temperatures and humidity are great for tomatoes and okra, but what is one to do if a salad is on the menu? Lettuce and spinach are cool weather favorites, but they have wilted or bolted by late May. If a fresh, green, cool salad is what you want to beat the summer heat, one of the greens you may choose to grow is Malabar spinach. This highly nutritious native of the Indian subcontinent is now grown across tropical Asia and Africa. Thus, it can take the Southern heat and thrive throughout the summer months. In fact, mid-May or even early June is the time to plant it, as seedlings will not thrive until nighttime temperatures average 65 degrees. While it is not a true spinach, the leaves closely resemble spinach and can be used in the same ways. When cooked it tastes much like spinach, but eaten raw is a revelation of flavors from citrus to pepper, making it a wonderful addition to other greens in a salad. Unlike true spinach, Malabar is a vine; in its native tropics it is a perennial, but here should be grown as an annual. Malabar is a member of the Basellaceae family. Two available seed varieties are Basella alba, the green leaf choice, and its red-stem cousin, Basella rubra. Both varieties mature in 60 days. The vines are prolific and make a striking statement in the vegetable garden.

•

Seeds may be sown directly into the soil here in the Sandhills.

•

This hardy choice will grow in a variety of conditions but thrives in soil with a pH of 6.5 to 6.8 and plenty of organic matter.

•

Being tropical in origin, it needs moist soil; it does best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade.

•

Its vining habit means that it requires a trellis, perhaps the one used for snow peas in the spring, or one in a large pot on a sunny patio. Expect the vines to reach lengths up to 12 feet.

/NCMGMooreCnty

www.SandandPineMag.com | 25

Sweet Corn By ROBERT NASON

orn has been domestically cultivated for more than 10,000 years. Farmers in what is now Mexico planted a small wild grass called teosinte that produced a small amount of kernels. Over the centuries, farmers began selectively breeding the teosinte kernels to make them grow larger and sweeter. According to scientists, modern-day corn is about 1,000 times larger than its original teosinte ancestor. The cultivation of corn spread through North America with indigenous tribes. Sweet corn occurred through a natural recessive mutation in the corn’s genes that prevented the vegetable’s sugar from converting to starch. This is the variation introduced to Europeans by the Native Americans. Corn is the No. 1 crop grown in the U.S., with an annual yield of more than 15 million bushels and is the third largest plant-based food source in the world. The states Iowa and Illinois are the largest growers of corn in the U.S.

> Nearly 39 percent of corn grown each year goes to feeding livestock.

> There are about 800 kernels on each ear of corn. And each ear will always have an even number of rows.

> Native Americans used the sweet corn leaves as chewing gum.

> Yellow and white corn offer the same amount of sweetness. Yellow corn, however, is a bit healthier because it carries beta carotene which our bodies then covert to vitamin A.

> Corn on a cob is a vegetable. The corn kernel is a grain. Most of the world designates corn a grain, but in the U.S. we categorize it as a vegetable.

> Corn stalks can grow up to 10 feet tall. The tallest sweet corn stalk on record was grown in Allegany, New York, in 2011, reaching 35 feet, 2 inches in height.

> Sweet corn is one of six major types

of corn. The other types are dent corn, flint corn, pod corn, popcorn and flour corn.

26 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

At the

Table

www.SandandPineMag.com | 27

At the

Table

Classic Corn on the Cob allrecipes.com Serves 6

Ingredients 2 tablespoons white sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 6 ears corn on the cob, husks and silk removed

Directions 1.

Fill a large pot about 3/4 full of water and bring to a boil. Stir in sugar and lemon juice, dissolving the sugar.

Gently place ears of corn into boiling water, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let the corn cook in the hot water until tender, about 10 minutes.

Black Bean and Corn Salad delish.com Serves 4–6

Ingredients 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup frozen corn, thawed 1 avocado, diced 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped 1/2 cup quartered cherry tomatoes 1/4 medium red onion, diced 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro

Juice of 1 lime 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil 1/2 tbsp. honey 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

Directions 1.

In a large bowl, combine beans, corn, avocado, jalapeño, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, oil, honey, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.

Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss to combine. Add cotija and toss again. Season to taste with more salt and pepper.

28 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Mexican Street Corn (Off the Cob)

Summer Corn Soup with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

food52.com Serves 4–6

2 pounds frozen corn kernels (or fresh if corn is in season) 3/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese 1/2 cup chopped cilantro 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup sour cream

2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1¼ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1 heaping cup chopped shallots

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, best quality

1½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil, for garnish

6 ears fresh corn (white or yellow are both fine, but yellow makes for a prettier soup)

1½ teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme, for garnish

1 teaspoon ancho chili powder Kosher salt Fresh ground pepper

Directions 1.

onceuponachef.com Serves 4

Preheat the broiler. Defrost the corn and spread on a rimmed baking sheet. Broil, stirring once halfway through, for 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly browned. In a large bowl, mix the cheese, cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, and ancho chili powder; season with salt and pepper. Add the roasted corn to the cheese mixture and stir to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Directions 1.

Remove the husks and silks from the corn. Set one ear of corn aside. Use a knife to cut the kernels off of the remaining 5 cobs, then break the scraped cobs in half. Set aside.

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the shallots and cook, stirring often, until soft and translucent, 8-10 minutes. Add the chicken stock, corn kernels, broken cobs, whole ear of corn, salt and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Remove the whole ear of corn and set aside to cool. Cook the soup for 10 minutes more, then remove the broken cobs from the pot and discard.

Off the heat, use a hand held immersion blender to purée the soup until very smooth. It will take a few minutes. (Alternatively, let the soup cool slightly and purée it in batches in a blender. Be sure to crack the lid or remove the center cap to allow steam to escape and cover with a dishtowel so it won’t splatter.) Place a fine mesh sieve over a large bowl and pass the soup through, using a back of a ladle to push the soup through in circular motions. Discard the fibers and bits of kernels in the sieve. Return the strained soup to a clean pot. It should have a creamy consistency. If it’s too thick, thin it with water or chicken stock; if it’s too thin, cook over medium heat until thickened.

Use a knife to cut the cooked kernels off of the cooled whole cob, then add the kernels to the soup along with the herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper (if necessary, you can add a bit of sugar to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness). Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with tiny sprigs of fresh basil and thyme, if desired. Serve hot or cold.

Mustardy Grilled Corn and Sausage Kabobs midwestliving.com Serves 4

Ingredients 2 large ears sweet corn, cut into 2-inch pieces (about 8)

1 (14 ounce) package kielbasa, cut into 12 pieces

1 large green sweet pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

⅓ cup bottled Italian salad dressing 1 tablespoon mustard

Directions 1.

Prepare grill for direct cooking over medium-high heat. Thread corn, kielbasa and sweet peppers on 4 long metal skewers.

In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing and mustard; brush some of the mixture on the kabobs before grilling.

Grill, covered, directly over medium- to mediumhigh heat for 8 to 12 minutes, turning and brushing occasionally with remaining dressing mixture, until vegetables are tender and charred.

www.SandandPineMag.com | 29

Beer Matters

Photo courtesy of Swells'a Brewing

Best Beach Breweries BY JAMIE DOOM BEACH SEASON IS UPON US and one of my favorite things about spending time on the N.C. coast is getting to enjoy the best breweries out there. Every year it seems like there are new ones, so I thought I would make a short brewery travel guide for you as you head east this summer! Please note that this is a partial list, and if you have any suggestions, I’d love to hear them. Swells’a Brewing, Kill Devil Hills. This is one of two breweries I’m recommending from the Outer Banks. It’s also the newest brewery on this list. It’s one row back in this absolutely gorgeous, surfer-themed wood and glass structure with a fireplace 30 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

for the winter. They have a large outdoor space with a cornhole section and some of the most knowledgeable beertenders I’ve experienced at any brewery. Also, puns are an integral part of the craft brewing industry, and when you make your brewery name a chef’s kiss name, I’m impressed. The beer is great too. I particularly liked Smokin’ Toobies Pale Ale which made me think of Sierra Nevada and the Beane Jumper Coffee Stout. 1718 Brewing, Ocracoke. This is the only brewery that requires a ferry, but it’s worth the trip. They came out of the gate making great beer from day one, which isn’t something you can say about all breweries.

They are constantly brewing new beer, so every trip is a treat. Their brewery and taproom is near some great restaurants, and they won’t mind if you bring in food while you drink. The beer that put them on the map is their Mexican Chocolate Stout which has the right mix of heat and chocolate. It’s a treat drinking a stout that has that much body at 4.9%. Last time I was there they had two different types of saisons which are probably my favorite style of beer. New Village Brewery and Taproom, Oriental. I first visited this place several years ago, and I fell in love with the vibe and the beer immediately. Frank and

Lili have created a beautiful community and a legendary watering hole for all the sailors docking the at N.C. Sailing Capital. Located in a historic house built in 1910, this nano brewery is also the smallest on the list, clocking in at one barrel. They have a beautiful beer garden with some great old trees and a front porch. Who knew that all the coastal breweries brewed such great stouts? Their Lili’s Breakfast Stout was voted by Carolina Brew Scene as the “Best Beer in N.C.” in 2019, and they tend to keep it on tap. They also have rotating breweries from across the state keeping their guest taps fresh and interesting. Fishtowne Brew House, Beaufort. Down the coast a little farther in historic Beaufort is a wonderful little downtown brew house. This is another beautiful space that has been built using recycled old heart pine from the original interior as a ceiling for the front door patio, table tops, their back bar top and in various accent pieces around the taproom. The beer is absolutely fantastic too! I couldn’t drink enough of their New

England Style IPA called Munden Fog. It’s brewed with Mosaic and Azacca Hops, so there’s lots of tropical fruits going on mid-palate, but I like the fact there is some actual bitterness and dryness on the back end. The Sand Bar Hoppin’ IPA is also very nice, and their Konundrum Kolsch is perfect for a hot, sunny day. Salty Turtle Beer Company, Surf City. I just spent a week on vacation in Surf City, and I am sure they got tired of seeing me. Their friendly staff and general vibe make this a very popular spot in Surf City. They are located right before you get to the bridge going over to Topsail Island. Their Mexican Lager, La Surfeza, is the absolute perfect beach beer! The Surf City Sunrise New England IPA is really good, and their most popular beer is probably the Hey Zay New England IPA, which is an absolute juice bomb with little to no perceived bitterness. They will have you driving across the bridge more than once! Crystal Coast Brewing, Atlantic Beach. This is one of the larger breweries on this list, and they’ve built a good reputation

on the coast for making quality, consistent beer, so you can find them in most of the bars on the Crystal Coast. They have a spacious taproom and beer garden right in Atlantic Beach, so stop in for a pint before, during and after your day in the sun. Their Crystal Coast IPA is a very balanced American IPA that is also very drinkable. And making drinkable, crushable beers is where they really shine. The Atlantic Beach Blonde Lager, the Crystal Kolsch, and the Crystal Clear Japanese Rice Lager will all do you right during that aforementioned day in the sand. Wilmington. Unfortunately, I do not have enough space here to write about all the amazing Wilmington breweries, but I really like Mad Mole, Waterline, Wilmington Brewing, Wrightsville Beach Brewing, New Anthem, Flying Machine, Bills and many others that I’m forgetting. Check those out when you’re around Wilmington.

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Headed to the beach or the farmers market? These totes are perfect for either outing. Find them at Cotton & Grain in So. Pines.

“It’s a sure sign of summer if the chair gets up when you do.” - Walter Winchell

Shop SP Local Summertime and the living is easy. Keep it easy by shopping local. Fathe'rs Day is right around the corner. Don't forget about dad!

Aloe is perfect for after-sun care. Grow your own and save yourself a trip to the pharmacy! And who doesn't need another plant?

1. TOTES ADORBS

Can you ever have too many totes? We don't think so. Find these great totes at Cotton & Grain in downtown Southern Pines.

2. IT SMELLS LIKE WHAT?

Definitely not teen spirit. These tongue-in-cheek scents will be the best hostess gift you give all year. Available at Jack Hadden in Aberdeen.

32 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

3. AN OFFICIAL MUG

Your dad or grandpa will love this mug officially declaring him grumpy. Even better if he's not grumpy at all. Find it at Purple Thistle.

4. IT'S ALL NATURAL

This kit is the perfect start to your medicinal garden. Great for burns and just for looking awesome in your living room. Get it at Lily Rose in Aberdeen.

5. WEAR THEM AT NIGHT

Or not. Le Specs Liar Liar sunglasses are pefect for the sunny days of summer. Get them at Courtney's Shoes.

We couldn't pick just one rug to highlight at DAHR. So instead, just look at how many you have to choose from!

It's summer outside, but winter in my cup! Keep your teas and shakes cold with a cup coozie from Off the Rail Nutrition. Lots of patterns available.

"The only yoga stretch I've perfected is the yawn." - Grant Tucker

E 2

1. TIES THE ROOM TOGETHER

The Dude wasn't wrong. The perfect rug can really tie a room together. Stop by DAHR to look at their large selection of gorgeous floor coverings.

2. JUGTOWN

This ridiculously pretty jug holds dried arrangements and just makes us smile. Pick it up at DAHR in Southern Pines.

3. SHUFFLE THE DECK

If you want to shake up your yoga practice, try these yoga cards. Bring them to the park and have some fun! Get them at Lily Rose in Aberdeen.

4. KEEP IT COOL

Don't let your hands get all wet from a sweaty cup. Get a cup coozie at Off the Rail Nutrition to keep your drink cold and your hands dry.

www.SandandPineMag.com | 33

These beautiful earrings from Julie Ryan Design are the perfect gift for a summer birthday.

“Me Love to Eat Cookies. Sometimes eat whole, sometimes me chew it.” - Cookie Monster

The Aqua Man. It's like your favorite tea, but on steroids. We can't promise Jason Momoa results though.

E 3

1. TAKE THE OCEAN WITH YOU

Can't make it to the beach? Wear it instead! These blue topaz and coral earrings are darling and bring a touch of the sea to any outfit. Try 'em on at Courtney's Shoes.

2. SWEET!

Reese's Cup and Cookie Monster high protein meal replacement shakes at Off The Rail Nutrition. They start at 200 calories 24g protein, 4.5g fat, & 15g carbs. Sign us up for 2!

3. WE BET IT'S JASON MOMOA APPROVED

The Aqua-Man Loaded Tea at Off The Rail Nutrition is loaded with B-vitamins, vitamin C, ginseng, caffeine, herbal tea, & aloe.Try one today!

Shop the Stores Cotton & Grain

Jack Hadden

Purple Thistle

168 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines shopcottonandgrain.com

120 W. Main Street, Aberdeen jackhadden.com

100 Magnolia Road, Suite 102, Pinehurst purplethistleshop.com

Courtney's Shoes

Lily Rose

135 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines courtneysshoes.com

122 W. Main Street, Aberdeen jackhadden.com

DAHR

Off the Rail Nutrition

168 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines furnitureinthepines.com

1381 N. Sandhills Blvd., Aberdeen offtherailnutrition.com

34 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

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www.SandandPineMag.com | 35

( Be Inspired )

Creative Imperfections BY CHRISTIN DAUBERT AS I WRITE THIS COLUMN, I’M STARING INTO THE SEA. The Atlantic Ocean, to be more exact, but that doesn’t sound as poetic. I can’t say exactly when it was that I first visited the Outer Banks, but I know I love it every second I’m here. Living locally in North Carolina has made me love this place even more. I love meeting so many people who are as enchanted by this little strip of land. My own little piece of paradise lies exactly eight miles after the road ends, in Carova. It’s an untamed beach with wild horses and nary a street light (or sign) to be found for miles and miles. Being here centers me and brings me back to myself, bringing me closer to my creativity. I’m always barefoot and maybe I’m simply soaking up the minerals and energy that makes this beach hum with life. Or maybe it’s more about a different perspective and the 36 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

natural beauty I am surrounded by every moment I’m here. When I’m here, I don’t bring paint and canvas, or really anything other than books and the essentials. I admit that I don’t travel with art supplies (unless I’m working on an embroidery). What I am fascinated by is how the constant metronome of the waves compels me to write. Sometimes it’s a short story about the lives of tiny crabs and mollusks that occupy a chaotic cluster of shells I find in the surf. Mostly, though, I write poetry here. I’m deeply inspired by nature and the beauty and destruction of the ocean. (Probably worth mentioning I’m a Pisces.) Whenever I’m walking along the beach, I’m on the lookout for shells and little treasures along the way. Sea glass is always at the top of my list. As I look through the ebb and flow of the water, I think about the

shells most people spend time looking for. The perfect shell. Does an image come to mind for you? A shell that you can bring home as a souvenir to remember your wonderful beach vacation. On this particular walk, I see the same kind of shells with different cracks and holes. When I flip them over, there are signs of healing and repair. I became fixated with finding more shells just like these. And because I think the universe works in well-timed ways, I kept finding exactly what I was looking for. I thought about the distances they’ve traveled, how many tides they’ve tumbled in, and how often they’ve been picked up by a shell searcher, and thrown back because of their imperfections. And since I’m someone who always has my phone on me, I opened up a note and started writing.

It isn’t lost on me how very fortunate I am to have such an idyllic spot to escape to when I get the chance. In a perfect world, I would be able to close my eyes and tap into the magical nature of this place anytime I need a burst of creativity. I think that might be something we all struggle with, the ability to transport ourselves back to a time or place that inspires or calms our souls. It might not be the beach for you. You could light up sitting in the middle of a crowded coffee shop, overflowing with creative ideas while sipping on a cappuccino. Or perhaps you want the absolute stillness of the mountains, where the silence is so loud you are able to hear all your inner thoughts. If this all sounds a little hokey to you, that’s OK too. But if, like me, you’ve craved a little hit of inspiration, I challenge you to explore your surroundings and find someplace where you can fully connect with yourself.

Share your creativity on Instagram: Hashtag #SandandPineMag. Also, go to @consciouslychristin to check out Christin's work.

Broken shells survive the storms Leaving pieces behind in the tumble of each tide Every day the same Never ceasing Never picked up next to the unblemished Discarded with notices of a flaw Holes Revealing every crack a history peering through Hidden beneath are marks of repair Healing Growing

A life fully lived Cracks, holes, and healing Because broken shells survive the storms

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Monday-Saturday 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” -Audrey Hepburn www.SandandPineMag.com | 37

Parenting

IN THE

Pines

In the Pink BY AMANDA ODEN THE OTHER DAY I WAS DRIVING MY 5-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER BOWIE HOME FROM DANCE CLASS. We had the radio on but I was focused on the cars on the road while simultaneously making a mental shopping list of the groceries we needed to stop and pick up, and trying to remember if I actually took the chicken out of the freezer before we left or not. I wasn’t really paying much attention to the music or what the radio show host was talking about, so I was kind of surprised when Bowie loudly snapped me out of my ongoing to-do list by yelling from the back seat, “Mommy, what does the word ‘hobby’ mean?”

38 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

I explained that a hobby was something you enjoy spending time on, or do just for fun. She thought about it for a second and said, “Your hobby must be cleaning because you do it so much!” I laughed and quickly clarified that while I enjoy living in a clean house, I do not consider picking up messes that I did not make all day a hobby. She seemed satisfied with my answer and busied herself with a library book in the back seat. But then I started to wonder, exactly what are my hobbies these days? Three kids, ages 5 and under, at home

all day, don’t leave room for much idle time. Before having kids I loved reading and always had at least two or three books in rotation. But now it seems the second I crack open a novel, someone has a boo-boo or needs a diaper change. I used to love going to comedy clubs or dancing with friends, but those things require babysitters and the energy to be out past 9 p.m. Even shopping has lost its luster because it’s typically of the grocery variety. By the time we got home, I’m not going to lie, I was feeling pretty bummed. I’ve been so busy wiping noses and serving Dino Nuggets for the past five years, I think I may have lost track of the person I was before I

constantly asked to name your favorite everything) I’d have to say mine is a flamingo. I knew that they turned bright pink because of all the shrimp, krill and red algae they eat, but honestly didn’t know much about the species except that they were kind of cool looking. This particular program focused on two new flamingo parents after their first flamingo chick hatched. The mother and father flamingo painstakingly took care of their new baby (the mother maybe a smidge more than the father), ensuring the chick had plenty of shrimp, krill and at one point even actual blood from the flamingo mother’s beak because she could sense her chick was low on iron! As the flamingo chick flourished and

That’s what the flamingos do!” Indy, our 13-month-old, waddled around the living room yelling, “Sad! Bird! Bird! Sad!” But Bowie, my oldest, squeezed my arm and said, “Mommy, just watch, your pink will come back.” And sure enough, as the program played out and the flamingo chick became more independent, both the mother and father flamingos started to regain their color. By the end of the documentary both parent flamingos were hot pink once more. I don’t know what my hobbies will be when my chicks are more independent, but I’m excited to have them again. Knitting? Painting? Rock-

The act of birthing and raising a baby made both flamingo parents visibly deteriorate, and within the species, the change from pink to white feathers is literally a signal to other flamingos to “Please leave me alone as I am busy with my child.” began this motherhood journey. I used to be so fun and vibrant, and now if I have a moment to myself I mostly just want a hot shower and a long nap. What happened? When we got home, Bowie and her brothers requested a snack and to “watch some tee-bee” and because I was now in a funk I obliged (even though mid-day screen time typically ends in tantrums). We all snuggled up on the sofa and settled on a documentary about birds on Disney+ (so that I could tell myself this was educational and not feel guilty). We all sat peacefully learning about penguins and hummingbirds. Typically when I can distract all three kiddos with a show, I hop up to tidy the kitchen or fold laundry, but today I decided to just watch the nature program with them. After the hummingbird segment came one about flamingos and I perked up a little. If I had to choose a favorite bird (and with small children you’re

got bigger, fluffier and more confident on its stick-like legs, both the mother and father flamingo went from bold pink hues to dull gray, almost white, washed out feathers. The act of birthing and raising a baby made both bird parents visibly deteriorate, and within the species, the change from pink to white feathers is literally a signal to other flamingos to “Please leave me alone as I am busy with my child.” For some reason this made me emotional and I started quietly crying. My 3-year-old son Arlo was the first to notice that I was upset and asked why I was sad. I didn’t really know how to articulate why this documentary was affecting me so much so I kind of choked out, “Mommy feels like a flamingo and I think I lost my pink!” Arlo, always the problem solver, was quick to suggest I eat more shrimp. “Mommy, the next time you go to the store just buy a lot of shrimp to eat.

For some reason this made me emotional and I started quietly crying. climbing? After a few consecutive nights of sleep I’m sure I’ll be capable of anything! I just need to remind myself that I haven’t lost anything. I’m just in the middle of making sure my flock is self-sufficient. Right now my feathers may be gray and white, but I’ll just be over here snacking on shrimp cocktail, patiently waiting to get my pink back.

www.SandandPineMag.com | 39

$ Moolah S H E R E E L A N CA S T E R

S TA R O F T H E P I N E S W E A LT H M A N AG E M E N T

Ten Things You Can Do to Avoid Fraud OKAY, LET’S TALK ABOUT SCAMMERS AND FRAUD NOW THAT THE SUMMER MONTHS ARE UPON US. No, not just the swindler playing violin in the grocery store parking lot. I mean, that was kind of a cool soundtrack to my stroll into Harris Teeter, but, in all seriousness, they are out there, in full force and in all forms. Our community has been hit hard over the last 24 months and it continues. So many Facebook and Instagram friend requests, from what appear to be friends but are not. So many folks getting credit cards, debit cards, check orders and statements for accounts they did NOT open themselves. How can you protect yourself? On a high level, use your judgement. Well, what if it’s a topic I know nothing about? What if I am not sure? What if it actually seems legit? Here are a few tips you can follow to avoid being scammed, hacked or defrauded. Put these to memory and share them with your friends and family. Let’s all come together and look out for one another! 40 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Spot imposters. Scammers and hackers are constantly pretending to be someone we trust—friends, family, the government, etc. Scammers will always make it sound urgent. They use texts, phone calls, emails, direct messages on social media and regular mail. Best rule of thumb: NEVER give out personal information or send money when the request is unexpected. Investigate. Type any company into a search engine along with the words scam, complaint or review. This will oftentimes show you if others are receiving similar contact or correspondence that you are questioning. You can even search for phone numbers by using this method. Don’t believe your caller ID. Technology makes it really easy for a scammer to fake caller ID information. The data you see is not always real. Hang up on those robocalls. If you pick up the phone and hear a recorded sales pitch, hang up and report it to the Federal Trade Commission. We will

discuss this later on, but know, they are actually illegal. Don’t press No. 1 or respond in any way, as that could actually lead to more calls. Or better yet, don’t pick up. Wait to see if they leave a message and block the number if it is suspect. Consider how you pay. This is a huge thing to think about while traveling, and honestly, each and every day. Use a credit card for purchases instead of your debit card or cash. With a credit card, you normally have recourse on your purchases and you don’t have to type your pin number in a key pad in front of everyone behind you in a store. It is much easier to get a credit on an unauthorized purchase on a credit card than it is from your bank on your debit card. Don’t carry, show, or count large amounts of cash. You are asking for trouble by drawing attention to yourself and allowing others the knowledge that you have cash to steal. If you must use cash, carry smaller bills and keep only what you need for your journey or for the day. Keep the carrying cash you plan to use in your pocket, and the rest of your cash in a separate location. Social media privacy. This goes without saying but I will say it anyhow. Do not share every aspect of your life on social media. Sharing all the details of your daily life, family, house layout, children, travel schedule, etc., opens you up to scammers being able to know you as well as your family or friends. That is dangerous on many levels, and fraud may be the least. Shred your junk mail. Yes, we all receive copious amounts of credit card offers, life insurance quotes that are too good to be true and so on. Do not throw these out whole in your trash. Once that trash leaves your home, do you know who touches it? Me neither. Shred it. Either buy a paper shredder for home use or save it up and bring it to a local Shred Event. I host one each year in April for this very reason. Is your mailbox safe? Some of us live in an area that has low traffic, few people walking and not a lot of activity. Some of us don’t. If you feel that your mailbox gets way more traffic than it should, then obtain a post office box. This will ensure that your mail will not be tampered with and is safe from those who are looking to try out that credit card offer you got. Also, while traveling, be sure to put a hold on your mail. You can do this online or directly at the post office. As an added tip, go green on your statements and save the hassle of opening and storing them in hard copy.

“

We are all guilty of this. But setting a little reminder to make a change to those passwords once a quarter and treating it like a seasonal thing you have to do will go a long way in protecting you and your identity.

like a seasonal thing you have to do will go a long way in protecting you and your identity. Make sure they are not all the same, too. Yes, yes ... I know. But subtle changes and variance in passwords will protect you. That way, if one account is compromised, they won’t all be! Use an Identity Theft Protection Service. Discover card literally will do this for you as a cardholder. A number of companies out there will. But if you want to go a step further in the monitoring of your credit, find yourself a monitoring service that is right for your lifestyle and budget. Don’t, and I mean DON’T, click that link! I cannot stress this enough. Everything we do nowadays is in our computer or our phones. If you download something from an unknown source, you are adding it to your device. It could be a video of kittens fighting over a piece of cheese, but in the background it could be running a program to steal your information. Just stop yourself and go look it up on YouTube or Tik Tok instead. What if it’s already happened? Who will help me? What do I do now? Report identity theft to the FTC. In writing this article, one of the sources I used was the FTC brochure on Avoiding Fraud that I picked it up at the Aberdeen Police Department. I encourage anyone who is experiencing any sort of fraud or scam to reach out to them and local law enforcement. They have a step-by-step process for reporting and self-recovery. The FTC has a toll-free number: 877. FTC.HELP, or you can report online at ftc.gov/complaint. Happy Summer, happy vacations and happy credit reports to all! Affiliated with Capital Investment Advisory Services, LLC. Securities offered through Capital Investment Group, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC, 100 E. Six Forks Road, Ste. 200, Raliegh, NC 27609 919.831.2370

Change your passwords often. We are all guilty of neglecting this. But setting a little reminder to make a change to those passwords once a quarter and treating it www.SandandPineMag.com | 41

Live

Nash, • LeighJune 16

The Neon Rooster Aberdeen

Aberdeen

The Neon Rooster

Jefferson Inn

114 Knight Street theneonrooster.com

150 W. New Hampshire Avenue jeffersoninnsouthernpines.com

Friday, June 10, 8 p.m. Matt Waters

Friday, June 3, 9 p.m. Kevin Regan Band

Thursday, June 16, 7 p.m. Leigh Nash

•

Saturday, June 4, 9 p.m. Avenue 133

Saturday, June 18, 7 p.m. Them! Rockabilly

Friday, June 10, 9 p.m. Rueben Kennedy

Saturday, July 30, 8 p.m. Brennen Leigh

Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad Street sunrisetheater.com

Friday, June 3, 5 p.m. First Friday - Rebekah Todd Friday, August 5, 5 p.m. First Friday - Dangermuffin

•

Friday, Sept. 2, 5 p.m. First Friday - Circus No. 9

Saturday, June 11, 9 p.m. John Teal

Pinehurst

Carthage

Friday, June 17, 9 p.m. Chase Mitchell

Dugan’s Pub

Maness Pottery and Music Barn

Saturday, June 18, 9 p.m. Cliff Stallings

24 / 27, 6 miles west of Carthage facebook.com/clydemaness

Saturday, June 25, 9 p.m. Paula Carlson

Every Tuesday, 6 p.m., Free Live bluegrass, country and gospel music

Saturday, July 2, 9 p.m. Jill Charles

Southern Pines Bell Tree Tavern 155 NE Broad St. thebelltreetavern.com

•

Every Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. Live music

Shakespeare in the Pines Tufts Memorial Park uprisingtheatrecompany.com June 10–12 & 17–19, 7:30 p.m. Hamlet

Villaggio 65 Magnolia Road themagnoliainn.com

Saturday, June 4, TBD Will Jones

Friday, June 3, 6:30 p.m. Paige King Johnson

Saturday, June 11, TBD Paula Carlson - Acoustic on the Rocks

All dates and times subject to change. Check directly with event organizers before making plans.

Saturday, June 18, TBD Dark Horse Saturday, June 25, TBD Them! Rockabilly & Patrick Kelly

Photographs courtesy of the artists

42 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

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www.SandandPineMag.com WeSel l M o o re. c o m| 43

e Fly On the Fly On the Fly On the Fly On the Fly On the Fly On the Fly On the Fl Do you live by any piece of advice or motto? Advice: In general, people don’t want sympathy, they want empathy. To be understood. Go-to cocktail? The classic Old Fashioned truly never gets old, or a Scotch on the rocks. What are you most looking forward to in the next 10 years? Building a sustainable future for my family in our new community which we have quickly come to love. What’s the best and worst thing about getting older? Best: Wisdom through experience. Worst: Joint mobility. What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit? Reading until completion. Life has a habit of demanding attention. What makes you laugh the most? My friends make me laugh the most. They can always find a way to make any moment laugh-worthy. What's one thing that can instantly make your day better? Seeing my wife smile from across the room or getting that midday text that inspires me to be my best self all day long. At a party, where can someone find you? I’ll be next to the shrimp and Sriracha cocktail sauce. Not to worry, though, we’ll be talking about important “things.” If you could time travel, when and where would you go? I would go back to play catch with my grandpa one more time and tell him all that I’ve accomplished since we last spoke. A truly great man with great advice.

44 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Chris Blakely Owner, Off the Rail Nutrition

Hangin' Out

(so we're droppin' in)

Purple Thistle

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5.13.22

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www.SandandPineMag.com | 45

Puzzles

OUR FLAG MEANS DEATH

DIFFICULT

Place numbers into the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains each of the digits 1 to 9. No guessing is needed. EASY

Across 1. Expression of contempt 4. Friend 8. Debutante 11. Wood sorrel 12. Cut with laser 13. Mast 14. Orthodox Jewish school 16. Twinned crystal 17. Freeze 18. Wharf labourer 19. Dense 22. Covered with coal dust 23. Endanger 24. E Indian shrub yielding hemp 25. Donkey 28. Eggs 29. Footwear 30. Groove 31. Two-year old sheep 32. Hour 33. Whirlpool 34. Giraffe-like animal 36. Out of date 37. Keyboard instruments

39. Vapour 40. Corporation 41. Having teeth 45. Adult nits 46. Desire 47. Tatter 48. Abstract being 49. Female sheep 50. Work unit Down 1. Lad 2. Top card 3. Owns 4. Slight sharp sound 5. Possess 6. America (Abbr) 7. Objective case of I 8. Establishments where ships are built and repaired 9. Australian super-model 10. Ale 13. Agreement 15. Rube 16. Satellites 18. Recipient

19. Canter 20. Bee nest 21. Introductory studies 22. Finnish name of Finland 24. Ocean craft 26. Soap lather 27. Eye inflammation 29. Get up 33. The Orient 35. Cabbagelike plant 36. Trousers 37. Leer 38. Wreck 39. Hereditary factor 41. Black bird 42. Land measure 43. Road surfacing 44. Ovum 46. Plural of I

THE JURY'S STILL OUT Ladderword puzzles are like crosswords but with a twist. The words in the middle column are anagrams of the words of the first column. The words in the last column are anagrams of the middle column plus one additional letter. The anchor words (the down clues) are related by a common theme. Across 1. Rituals 3. Non-sleeping compartment 5. Willies 6. Adolescent years 7. Goes in 8. Holdings

9. Cave 10. Eye part 11. Alight from a train 12. Skimp 13. Giants 14. Sampling 15. Liberates 16. Absconders

17. Insect antennae Down 2. Ordeal 4. Pass legal judgment

Puzzle answers found on SandandPineMag.com 46 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

DISCOVER MOORE COUNTY

Sign your child up for

Dolly Parton’s

IMAGINATION LIBRARY and get a FREE BOOK every month until their 5 birthday!

Partners for Children & Families 7720 NC Hwy 22 Carthage, NC 28327 www.moore4kids.com 910-949-4045

www.SandandPineMag.com | 47

Last Word Parallel Universe You’d be hard-pressed to find a sci-fi series that doesn’t address the idea of parallel universes. Put aside the fact the number of story lines it offers sci-fi writers, just the idea that there could be an infinite number of you out there, living an infinite number of different outcomes, is particularly mind-blowing. Even experts get caught up in the possibilities of it. Max Tegmark, a professor at MIT, said, “If I get a parking ticket, there is always a parallel universe where I didn’t. On the other hand, there is a yet another universe where my car is stolen.” Without getting way deep into the weeds of astrophysics, Tegmark suggests there are four types or levels of parallel universe: Level 1 assumes space is infinite and that the physical laws of other universes are the same as ours but a duplicate of our world is too far away for us to connect with it. Level 2 suggests separate universes spring up like “bubbles of spacetime” going through their own form of expansion. The laws of physics in these universes could be different from our own and, again, it would be universes too far from us to connect with. Level 3 is the alternate or mirror universe we think of in science fiction, where each choice you make will affect your reality, but another reality may reflect a different choice. For example, if you’re at a restaurant and you’re deciding between steak or fish: If you choose steak in one reality, you’ll choose fish in another, and this will cascade into more divergent choices, and still more divergent choices. Level 4 is a parallel universe that suggests the mathematical equations and physical laws that govern these types of universe are completely different from our own. Michio Kaku, a theoretical physicist, explained multiple universe theory this way in his book Parallel Worlds: A Journey through Creation, Higher Dimensions and the Future of the 48 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE June/July 2022

Cosmos: “Nobel laureate Steven Weinberg likens this multiple universe theory to radio. All around you, there are hundreds of different radio waves being broadcast from distant stations. At any given instant, your ofﬁce or car or living room is full of these radio waves. However, if you turn on a radio, you can listen to only one frequency at a time; these other frequencies have decohered and are no longer in phase with each other. Each station has a different energy, a different frequency. As a result, your radio can only be turned to one broadcast at a time. “Likewise, in our universe we are ‘tuned’ into the frequency that corresponds to physical reality. But there are an inﬁnite number of parallel realities coexisting with us in the same room, although we cannot ‘tune into’ them.” Skeptics argue there’s too much “theory” still involved, that to prove it we must still follow the underlying laws of physics and that we must first discover “the law of laws” in order to understand it. The idea of parallel universes opens up a Pandora’s box of questions, not only scientific but philosophical and spiritual. Who is to say what is possible and what isn’t? Kaku says, based on something called quantum theory, that “there is a probability that all possible events, no matter how fantastic or silly, may occur.” Human history has taught us this is true. How often in the past have humans absolutely believed something was impossible only to be proved wrong? Having doubts? That doesn’t mean your alternative self doesn’t believe.

July 3&4

Celebrating IN T

FREE

PENDENC E D E

O-D

AY EV

T N E

SUNDAY, JULY 3 | PINEHURST HARNESS TRACK

CONCERT & FIREWORKS 6:00 - 9:00 pm | Music from Liquid Pleasure 9:15 pm | Fireworks MONDAY, JULY 4| VILLAGE CENTER

Parades 9:45 am| Pet Parade 10:00 am | Main Parade WWW.VOPNC.ORG/CELEBRATINGINDEPENDENCE

BEST DARN WINGS! What makes our wings so darn good? Legends never uses frozen wings, we make our own sauce from scratch, and we grow our own peppers. Stop in anytime between noon and 2 am for lunch, snacks or comfort food. Try one of our daily drink specials, a microbrew, or local brewery beer. When the weather is nice, sit out on the outdoor patio. There’s nothing more satisfying than going to your favorite neighborhood bar and grill for some good ole comfort food, friendly folks and lots of fun.

Celebrating our 10 year anniversary, Legends of Southern Pines provides friendly fun in spades! Watch your favorite sport on seven different TVs, play on one of four dartboards, shoot 8 ball on one of two pool tables, or join a World Tavern poker game. We even offer live music on the weekends!

1113 Old US Rt. 1, Southern Pines 910.692.6170 /LegendsSOP LUNCH, SNACKS OR COMFORT FOOD / DAILY DRINK SPECIALS / DARTS, BILLIARDS, POKER / LIVE MUSIC ON WEEKENDS / OPEN NOON-2AM

June/July Sand & Pine

Articles inside

Last Word

Be Inspired

Moolah

Quicksand

Beer Matters

Parenting in the Pines

Puzzles

Shop Local

Garden Variety