LIOF-August2012

FEATURE life in our foothills

August 2012

Keeper

of the bees

Lifeinourfoothills.com

Long Shadows Farm

July 2012

Historic greens AU GU ST 2 0 1 2

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FEATURE

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life

Editor’s Note

H

istory abounds in these hills and so does the spirit to be a part of the lasting history or our area.

Around Polk County and Landrum there exists a bounty of historical treasures to explore and slews of avenues in which one can creatively and/or productively get lost.

This month’s issue of Life in our Foothills delves into features depicting two of the area’s historic landmarks – the Tryon Country Club’s devotion over the last 90–plus years to the game of golf and The Oaks in Saluda’s almost 100-year history of respite for travelers seeking the restorative powers of time spent in the mountains.

While they’ve not been at it for a century, two local beekeepers talk to our staff about their fascination with beekeeping and the importance of the insects to life on this planet as we know it. You can also learn about volunteer efforts to spawn a love of chess in local school kids and an artist’s excitement for improv and our theater culture locally.

Our Appointments section includes some breathtaking photos of Long Shadows Farm and a feature on what Michael Atkins has in store for this gorgeous piece of property. Meanwhile, Lydia Juenger offers tips for anyone interested in adopting a racehorse and Glenda Wolfe invites would-be paso fino fans out to her farm for camp.

Don’t forget to scan through our Foothills Featured pages to see if you can catch a peek at a familiar face! We’ve been at numerous events around the county this last month in an effort to snap a photo of you and yours out and about in our great community.

We hope you continue to enjoy this publication and as always, we encourage your suggestions for stories or events to cover! Feel free to contact me at samantha.hurst@lifeinourfoothills.com or call 828-859-9151.

Samantha Hurst, Editor

samantha.hurst@lifeinourfoothills.com

On the cover Les Spangler displays a frame full of honey from the bee hives he raises in Landrum.

Spangler began raising bees in order to produce honey for his wife who had developed allergies. Now Spangler regularly works to encourage new beekeepers in the area.

Cover design: Gwen Ring Photography: Doug Dickerson

IN OUR

PUBLISHER Betty Ramsey EDITORIAL Samantha Hurst Leah Justice Gwen Ring Barbara Tilly CONTRIBUTORS Barbara Childs Robin Edgar Gerda Hook Carol Lynn Jackson Gerald Pack PRODUCTION Doug Dickerson Samantha Hurst Gwen Ring MARKETING Matt Corn Nicholas Holmberg Betty Ramsey Lenette Sprouse ADMINISTRATION Jessy Taylor DISTRIBUTION Jeff Allison Jonathan Burrell Nick Elder Tony Elder

Life in our Foothills is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Life in our Foothills is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Tryon Newsmedia Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher.

Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Life in our Foothills, 16 N. Trade Street, Tryon, N.C. 28782.

Life in our Foothills is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and upstate South Carolina. Please visit lifeinourfoothills.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $35 for one year by emailing subscribe@ lifeinourfoothills.com, or calling (828) 859-9151, ext. 101.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@lifeinourfoothills.com, or by calling (828) 859-9151.

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CONTENTS

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48

Features 24 BEEKEEPING IN THE FOOTHILLS

In Every Issue 8 SHORT STORIES

Take a Trot through Tryon’s art community or read about a couple that trekked across America by motorcycle.

10 OUT & ABOUT

Smithsonian’s New Harmonies exhibit comes to Landrum and it's time to put on your hiking shoes.

12 FOOTHILLS FEATURED

Sneak a peek at who showed up for the “Get Better” film premiere, the talented young cast of “Seussical” and Outreach volunteers.

78 WHY I LOVE THE FOOTHILLS

Mary Meyers, once a performer with the Metropolitan Opera now calls Tryon home.

Les Spangler and others keep tradition of beekeeping alive.

44 PJ'S FASHIONS

Steinman family creates lasting friendships through fashion, gives back to community.

48 HISTORIC GREENS

Tryon Country Club seeks place on National Register of Historic places and looks forward to 100-year anniversary.

56 POLK KNIGHTS

Youth's desire to learn more about the game of chess sparks volunteer effort to bring the game to Polk County students.

Home & Food

32 RESTORATION AT THE OAKS

Saluda's more than 100-year-old home, located on what once was Pace family property, serves now as a lovely mountain retreat and home to Dale and Donna Potruski.

Arts & Culture

38 COUNTRY LIVING COLUMN

Darlene Cah talks about her love of improv.

40 FOOD FOR FOODIES

21 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:

Create a room that offers comfort and convenience.

Read more about what's taking place with the Slow Food movement right here in the foothills - potluck dinners, educational programs and more.

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CONTENTS

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RECIPE: WATERMELON AND TOMATO SALAD Refresh your summer afternoon with this light but scrumptious salad that you can make with a variety of local produce and herbs.

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Appointments 61 UPCOMING EVENTS

The heat of the summer lingers with another busy month of equestrian events.

62 LONG SHADOWS FARM

Michael Atkins looks to expand offerings at his Campobello farm.

66 HUNTER PACE SCHEDULE WRAPS

The River Valley Pony Club hosts the final Western Hunter Pace trail ride of the season. Rides return in September.

68 HEINRICH GOES THE DISTANCE

Judy Heinrich answers questions about her love for competitive trail riding.

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QUADRILLE TEAM PERFORMS AT THREE GABLES Team shows off their skills at Three Gables Farm.

72 RIVER VALLEY PONY CLUB

RVPC member Krista Just discusses her experience at pony club camp.

74 TIPS FROM PROS

Lydia Juenger gives advice on things to consider before adopting a retired racehorse and the best ways to prepare them for their new lives.

75 PASO FINO CAMP

Try your hand at riding with a paso fino.

76 DUDLEY REPORTS

Dudley the donkey shares his view of the equestrian world.

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2010 Insurance Company.

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SHORT STORIES

Trotting through town of art Trot through downtown Tryon’s galleries to see the finest in artwork from our area Saturday, Aug. 11 from 5-8 p.m.

Tryon Gallery Trots are evenings held to bring attention to the arts and display new exhibits of work from the many talented people residing in our foothills. Attendees even have the opportunity to possibly meet and talk with artists, craftspeople, authors and illustrators about their work, while enjoying light refreshments. Some galleries also offer art demonstrations and live performances during these events.

To keep up with information about the events, follow Tryon Gallery Trot on facebook or on the Tryon Downtown Development Association’s website downtowntryon.org. You can also email info@skyukafineart.com for more information.

PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES Skyuka Fine Art Upstairs Artspace Vines & Stuff Green River Gallery Bravo Outdoor Marketplace Tryon Painters & Sculptors The Book Shelf The Pine Crest Inn

Still life work by Rich Nelson.

The Ransom Project A small number of The Ransom Project 2012 official art posters are available at Sterling Women’s Golf Shoppe on Depot Street, in downtown Tryon, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. All proceeds from the posters go to the Town of Tryon Save Morris Initiative. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Tryon.

Will you help Save Morris?

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SHORT STORIES

Couple completes Relay Across America Peggy and Gary Waldron of Green Creek like to ride motorcycles.

When a friend and fellow motorcycle rider, Joe Wise of Hendersonville, N.C. was diagnosed with stage 4 clear cell carcinoma (an incurable type of cancer) and given one to two years to live, he compiled a list of things he wanted to do and see. One of those items was to ride his motorcycle across America and another was to see the Grand Canyon.

As Joe, his wife, Dana, and brother, Kenneth, talked about fulfilling those things, Joe put together a team for Hendersonville's American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

This experience helped Joe realize there might be a way to incorporate his bucket list with Relay for Life. After approaching the American Cancer Society with the idea, they established the inaugural Relay Across America.

The Waldrons have been friends with Joe and Dana Wise since they met as members of the Christian Motorcyclists Association's Hendersonville chapter. Having personally been affected by cancer in their own family, the Waldrons encouraged Joe and helped to arrange the ride plan.

Gary’s truck and trailer were readied as a support vehicle in case Joe, who is still receiving chemotherapy and often tires easily, needed to rest. The trailer was able to hold two motorcycles and a trike.

The ride took place on June 8 from Pa-

Riding with

Relay Across America riders (left to right) Kenneth Wise, Dana Wise, Joe Wise, Peggy Waldron and Gary Waldron made their way from South Carolina to California by motorcycle in support of the American Cancer Society. Photo submitted.

triot's Point in Mt Pleasant, S.C., home of the “Fighting Lady,” aircraft carrier USS Yorktown. The ride ended in San Diego, Calif. on June 16 at the USS Midway. The route included stops in Mills River, N.C.; Jackson, Tenn.; Van Buren, Ark.; Amarillo, Texas; Gallup, N.M., Flagstaff, Ariz.; Yuma Ariz.; and San Diego, Calif.

Joe and Gary rode the entire trip, 2,725 miles. Peggy, riding Dana on the back as a passenger, and Joe's brother, Kenneth, shared the trike. Joe's bike became a memorial as

confidence

clinic for riders given by Dr. Jenny Susser.

Dr. Susser will host the mounted clinic Aug. 3 and Do show nerves ever get in your way?

Aug. 5 at Cross Creek Farm in Green Do you wish you could ride as well at a Creek. show as you do at Learn how to improve home? No matter what Clinic with Dr. Jenny Susser focus and self-confidence, level, training to Grand Prix, you can perform better competitively two integral parts of riding better mentally.

Then, you'll get on your horses and ride. with better mental skills.

“Riding With Confidence” is a two-day Dr. Susser will help riders develop confi-

people he met wrote on it the names of friends and family members.

Joe has long outlived the medical prediction of 1 – 2 years. Despite now having 12 active tumors in his body, he continues with the ambition of raising funds for cancer research in the use of non-toxic hormones to combat the disease. He also hopes to establish a cancer support group for men.

More information and pictures of the journey can be found at: relayacrossamerica.com and www. facebook.com/RelayAcrossAmerica.

dence and learn new ways to control your physical responses on the spot. Finish out the day with a Q & A discussion.

Dr. Jenny Susser has a doctoral degree in Clinical Health Psychology, is New York State licensed and specializes in sport psychology. Susser herself was a four-year All-American swimmer and assistant coach at UCLA. She swam on two national teams, and at the 1988 Olympic Trials. For more information on Dr. Susser, visit www.JennyRSusser.com.

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FEATURE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Now-August 4 Jane Murphy Tryon Painters & Sculptors will host a show of paintings by Joan Murphy through Aug. 4.

The TPS Gallery is located at 26 Maple Street in Tryon.

Now-August 25 Commanding Wood The Upstairs Artspace is currently hosting a sculpture exhibit entitled “Commanding Wood.”

The exhibit features wood artists Daniel Marinelli and Dustin Farnsworth. The exhibit will run through Aug. 25.

August 1-15 A Walking Guide Through Paris 10 a.m. - Isothermal Community College Instructor Mary Jo Padgett offers a walking guide through Paris to places connected to the French involvement in the American Revolution.

August 3 Saluda Dog Society 1:15 p.m. - Episcopal Church 10 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

The Saluda Dog Society will host its next meeting Friday, Aug. 3 at 1:15 p.m. in the Parish Hall of the Episcopal Church in Saluda. The group works to rescue and assist animals. For more information, email SaludaDogSociety@yahoo.com or call Pat Waring at 828-749-1332.

August 5 New Harmonies opening reception for John Fowler: 3:30 p.m. - Landrum Library A master harmonica player, storyteller and ballad singer, John Fowler co-hosts a weekly old-time radio show on WNCW-FM.

August 5 Saluda Community Land Trust hike “The Missing 40” off Pearson's Falls Road, is a one-mile loop of moderate walking, one to two hours. For more info, contact Chuck Hearon at 828-749-9886.

August 7 Arthritis HealthTalk 3 p.m. - St. Luke’s Hospital Library

Jamie Cehlar, DPT, Physical Therapist with St. Luke’s Outpatient Rehabilitation will present Arthritis: No Bones About It! Call 894-2408 to reserve your seat! Refreshments will be served.

August 10 Summer Tracks Concerts 6 p.m. - Rogers Park in Tryon.

Sol Driven Train (opening with their kid’s show), sponsored

by Green River Adventures in Saluda. The Summer Tracks series are free concerts but donations are welcomed.

August 11 David Holt: Music and Stories from the Southern Mountains.

7 p.m. - Landrum Library Outdoor concert at Landrum Library. Four-time Grammy Award winner David Holt is host of public television’s “Folkways” and PRI’s “Riverwalk: Classic Jazz from the Landing.”

August 11 Tryon Gallery Trot 5-8 p.m.

Thirteen galleries, shops, restaurants and organizations sponsor this event and open their doors to art lovers for opening receptions, special events, and entertainment. Entertainment provided by a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation.

Check Facebook or email info@ skyukafineart.com for more information.

August 11 Lions Club Garage Sale 8 a.m. to noon Lower level of the Columbus Town Hall

August 11-Sept. 22 TPS Members Show Tryon Painters & Sculptors will host a gallery showing of members works Aug. 11-Sept. 22.

The TPS Gallery is located at 26 Maple Street in Tryon.

August 12 Lecture : Dr. Tracey Laird, “Cultural Preservation: A Southern Louisiana Case Study” 3:30 p.m. - Landrum Library

FEATURE Dr. Laird, Charles Loridans Associate Professor of Music and Chair at Agnes Scott College, focuses this program on Cajun and zydeco music.

August 14-21 Mosaic Bird Bath 9 a.m. – noon Isothermal Community College Instructor Dot Pearce teaches students how to create a stained glass mosaic birdbath. No glass skills required.

August 16 Brushfire Stankgrass Trio 7 p.m. - Landrum Library Outdoor concert at the Landrum Library. The trio’s music, which includes the influences of hip hop, jazz and reggae, has been called “quintessential modern mountain music.”

August 18 Miller and Rowe Concert 7 p.m. - Jackson Grove United Methodist Church Michael Miller, a classical guitarist, and David Rowe, who plays the hammer dulcimer, incorporate original compositions, classical, Celtic, old-time and hymns into their program.

Sponsored by the Susan Patricia Hodge Foundation.

August 23 The Trophy Husbands 7 p.m. - Landrum Library Outdoor concert with The Trophy Husbands at Landrum Library. Presenting an eclectic repertoire embracing Americana and folk/rock, this group from the Tryon area is noted for its great harmonies and unique arrangements.

August 24 Summer Tracks Concerts 6 p.m. - Rogers Park Tryon.

The Bad Popes & The Swayback Sisters, sponsored by the Tryon Fine Arts Center, perform in the last of the Summer Tracks concerts. The Summer Tracks series are free concerts but donations are welcomed.

August 24 Combined art show 6-8 p.m. - Tryon Arts & Crafts School

Tryon Painters & Sculptors and Tryon Arts & Crafts Art Show opening at Tryon Arts and Crafts School in Tryon.

August 25 New Harmonies Street Dance 7 p.m. - Downtown Landrum Bruce Greene, featured artist, preservationist and nationallyrecognized old-time fiddler, is joined by musicians Doug Rostick, Danny Henderson and Robert Burns. Sponsored by City of Landrum and the Landrum Area Business Association.

August 26 Lecture/demonstration 3:30 p.m. - Landrum UMC Dr. Warren Carson, “Folk Roots of Contemporary Gospel Music.” Dr. Carson, professor of English and assistant vice chancellor of academic affairs at USC Upstate, presents a short history of gospel music with a small

choir demonstration.

August 30

7 p.m. - Landrum Library Phil and Gaye Johnson Outdoor concert at Landrum Library with Phil and Gaye Johnson. Music in the traditions of southern Appalachia: Guitar, mandolin and dobro with harmony vocals. Songwriters and storytellers, the Johnsons offer a unique blend of Western swing, cowboy blues, folk, bluegrass and country music.

August TBA DSS Foster Parenting Foster parenting classes to begin at the end of August with the Polk County Department of Social Services. Ten-week classes prepare parents to care for children in foster care. Participants must register in advance. Contact Jennifer Pittman at 828-894-6621 or jpittman@polknc.org

August 19 Saluda Community Land Trust hike “Little Bradley Falls” off Holbert Cove Road, is a 2-mile out and back hike of moderate to strenuous walking. For more information, contact Chuck Hearon at 828-749-9886.

August 21 Lanier Library Brown Bag Lunch program Noon Bonnie Bardos, artist, sculptor, and writer will present the program. The program is free and everyone is invited to bring a lunch. Lanier Library at 72 Chestnut St. in Tryon.

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Chamber After Hours The Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce held its monthly Business After Hours event at Ken's Fine Meats in Landrum. These events are held to give business owners a chance to showcase their business and network with other business owners.

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1. Bonnie and Dale Musselwhite 2. Cindy Nanney and Jane Torres.

3. Cora Miller.

4. Bart and Sissy Winkler.

5. Frieda Barnes and Kim Adams.

6. Erin and Morgan Carmichael, Dr. Richard Edney and Dina Edney.

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Get Better Movie Premiere

Filmmakers Chris White and Emily Reach White gathered with cast, crew and supporters for a true red carpet affair Monday, June 18 at the premier of their newest production, "Get Better."

The film was filmed in and around Tryon, home of lead actor Robert Linder.

Find out more about the movie at its website www.getbetterthemovie.com.

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1. Benjamin and Stephanie Young.

2. Justin McDaniel and Fran Friday.

3. Emily Reach White, Chris White, Robert Linder and Mary Meyers.

4. Chris White, Emily Reach White and Jennifer Baxley.

5. Whitaker White and Mark Ligon.

6. Keri Keith Lumm and Christy Sneed.

7. Lisa Justice and Nathan Brown.

8. Yoma and Brittinaie Edwin.

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Outreach volunteer lunch

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Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry honored the backbone of its organization – its volunteers – Thursday, June 14 with a volunteer luncheon. The event was held at Sunnydale log cabin in Tryon with the theme, “My Brother’s Keeper.”

1. Luncheon attendees.

2. Volunteers Henry and Eric Bundy.

3. Volunteer Betsy Schenkel.

4. Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry Director Carol Newton.

5. Jim Murphy, Alicia Sama, Bill Miller and Chris Greensfelder (board members) and Linda Greensfelder.

6. Volunteer Coordinator Anna McClure, volunteer Mike Karaman and Client Service Coordinator Michelle Reedy.

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Landrum Patriotic Parade

Landrum Library held its annual Patriotic Parade Thursday, June 28 in anticipation of the July 4th holiday. The parade encouraged kids to come out in their red, white and blue finest. The parade travels from the library to Brookwood Park every year.

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1. Louisa Sterritt and Sarah Lancaster.

2. Anna-Carlisle Keim and Anderson Keim.

3. Lauren Winterrowd.

4. Hannah Sprouse and Megan Hayden.

5. Codie Raffield.

6. Talan Cabbage and Aubrey and Braley Jackson.

7. Lainey and Gray Caldwell.

8. Emily Chisholm.

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Columbus BBQ & Gospel Music The annual Columbus BBQ and Gospel Music event was held June 30-July 3 in Columbus. The event is held every year to raise funds for the Columbus Fire Department and to bring community members together for outdoor concerts of gospel music.

1. Tom "Preacher Tom" Frady and Pat Wilson.

2. Lew Crissone and Carol Hitcher.

3. Tristin and Sebastian Potter.

4. Linda and Dave Stoltzfus with grandchildren Kali and Dominick Barnes.

5. Susan Anderson.

6. Andrew and Matthew Gregory.

7. Pat Foy and Evelyn Lockee.

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Polk County Beautification awards 6

The Polk County Appearance Commission announced its 2012 beautification awards during the Polk County Board of Commissioners meeting Monday, July 9.

1. Bob Lair with Joe Cooper.

2. Bob Lane with Joe Cooper.

3. Carolyn Cobb with Joe Cooper.

4. Nora Parks Anderson with Joe Copper.

5. Ernie Kahn with Joe Cooper.

6. Babs and Bob Strickland with Joe Cooper.

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Coon Dog Day Saluda held its 49th annual Coon Dog Day Festival Saturday, July 7 complete with the annual parade and crowning of Coon Dog Day princes, princesses and king and queen. The event includes games, food, crafts and other activities for families to enjoy. Thousands of people make their way to Saluda every year to take part in the event.

1. Saluda Mayor Fred Baisden.

2. Hop Foster.

3. Coon Dog Day Baby Princess Olivia Rose Bradley.

4. Sam and Briggs Belk.

5. Noah Beddingfield, Sawyer Huff and Madison Foster.

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8 1. Hunter and Jeff Geagley. 2. Coon Dog Day Queen Mary Shannon Eargle. 3. Coon Dog Day Baby Prince Colton Blake. 4.

Coon Dog Day Junior Princess Taylor Dixon. 5. Coon Dog Day Junior Prince Malachy Webb Crown. 6. Coon Dog Day Princess Sadie Allen. 7. Coon Dog Day prince Christian Netschytailo. 8. Coon Dog Day King Michael Wilson.

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Seussical the musical A production by Tryon Little Theater.

1. Jungle inhabitants.

2. Price Marshall and Sara Seagle.

3.Eli Jenkins, Greyson Roser, Hayden Gary and Eric Harrelson.

4. Will Costine.

5. Alexa Hughes and Tij D'Oyen.

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6. Tij D'Oyen. 7. Alexa Hughes, Sara Seagle, Alissa Fiorillo, Alivia Swayzie and Holly Horton. 8. Damon Stafford, Alexander Harrelson and Julien Besnard. 9. Eli Jenkins, Julien Besnard and Tommie Perry IV. 10. Alexander Harrelson. 11. Matthew Alexander and Kati Shanahan.

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Summer Sizzler

Tryon Arts & Crafts School held weekly arts and crafts summer camps for kids. Participants had the opportunity to try their hands at a variety of artistic media such as silk painting, woodworking, metal working, pastels and even glass.

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1. Wade Morgan, Jayden Culver, Gavin Hyder, Hayden Gary, Drew Bailey, Kinslee Wright, Emma Woodward Burdett and Genevieve Gary.

2. Jayden Culver displays her artwork.

3. Wade Morgan with grandparents Eilene and Perry Morgan.

4. Hayden Gary with his work from the week.

5. Kinslee Wright with pieces she created.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Artist Spotlight: Darlene Cah

Interview by GWEN RING Photograph submitted

A multi-tasking, diverse artist who's learned to take risks and share her experiences with the community.

Share a little about your artistic background.

When I look back over the years, it seems I'm always involved in one or two artistic endeavors at a time. I started out as a visual artist, doing humorous illustration. I graduated from the School of Visual Arts in New York where I discovered one can actually make a living doing something you love. I concentrated on advertising, but I was a dreadful designer. I freelanced as an artist for a couple of years after graduation. What appealed to me about advertising were the concepts, the stories, so I wrote copy for the ads in my portfolio and soon got a job as a copywriter. At the same time I started singing in a band, rehearsing and playing clubs after work and on weekends. Just last year, I completed a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Queens University of Charlotte. All the arts are related in some way.

How did you get started doing improv?

I started in improv in a most appropriate way--on impulse!

I had taken a voice over class where I met a comic named Ron Poole. He called me one day to say Michael Gellman from Second City would be in New York to give a two-week workshop and would I be interested? I said yes, having no clue what I was getting myself into. All my life, I was incredibly shy. I'd had supervisors at work tell me to speak up in meetings and I'd want to crawl under the table. In Gellman's workshop and many that followed, I learned to take risks and have fun. It opened a whole new creative world. Now, you can't shut me up!

What do you find most enjoyable about what you do?

In improv you learn that mistakes are gifts, so taking risks is easy and encouraged. If you're going to fail, fail big. Say "Yes" to that crazy idea. Often as artists and in our daily lives, we have that nagging critic hanging around our ears telling us, "You can't do that." If we turn to the rules of improv, we can give ourselves permission to try and if it doesn't work out it will lead to something else. One of my favorite rules of improv is: Make your partner look good. So we work in a super supportive atmosphere. Improv allows you the freedom to take your creative projects to different, more exciting levels. As a fiction writer, I improvise at the computer all the time. You can apply these skills to any creative art, business and everyday life.

In what ways do you participate in the local community?

I've had the Darlene Cah privilege of leading several improv workshops through the Tryon Fine Arts Center. It always amazes me how everyone, actors and non-actors alike, jump in and have fun, create characters. We've even done a couple of musical improv workshops and everyone got up, sang and had a blast. Pam McNeil played piano for us, and she'd never done improv before.

She was amazing. Marianne Carruth helped organize the workshops and she participated. Being a trained actor, sometimes makes it hard to work without a script, but Marianne jumped into the scenes with gusto.

What do you enjoy most about the theater culture here, in the foothills?

I'm thrilled to see how much talent we have in our little community! When I moved here from New York, some of my theater friends said, "What are you going to do there?" Ha! I can't fit it all in!

Some weekends, it's so hard choose between one event over another.

I love our galleries and cafĂŠs featuring local bands and singer/songwriters. The quality of the productions at Tryon Little Theater rival many shows I'd seen in New York. And of course, the Tryon Fine Arts Center is a wonderful professional venue that offers entertaining shows for everyone's taste.

When/where will you hold your next workshop?

At the moment, I'm still in the planning stage working out ideas with Tryon Fine Arts Center for either a series of workshops or forming an improv performance group.

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FEATURE

Les Spangler of Landrum, S.C. holding a frame full of honey.

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FEATURE

Beekeeping in the

Foothills

Written by BARBARA TILLY Photographs by DOUG DICKERSON & DANNY FERGUSON

To Les Spangler of Landrum, the buzz of honeybees is like music. Even after 35 years of working with the bees and the honey they produce, Spangler is still passionate about beekeeping.

“When I see a swarm, it’s like the first time I ever saw one. I get all excited,” Spangler said.

Spangler, 72, grew up in Hershey, Pa. He moved to Landrum in 1965, when he married local native Ann McClure, whom he met in Charleston, S.C. while he was serving in the U.S. Air Force.

Ann was also the inspiration for Spangler's involvement in beekeeping.

“She picked up a reaction to processed sugar, and we found out honey was fine for her," Spangler said. "But I couldn't find local honey easily, so I decided to raise it myself and bought three hives in Greenwood, S.C." From that modest beginning, Spangler has grown his beekeeping operation to 42 hives. The hives are located in a field some distance from his home and the outbuilding in which he extracts the honey.

Close to the hives, the air is humming with bees. They fly to and from the hives continuously during the day, busy with activity that Spangler said may look random but is actually following a pattern born in each bee.

"Each member of a hive has a specific purpose," Spangler said. "There are guard bees, nurse bees, undertakers and others - including, of course, the queen."

The systematic nature of the hive is what another local beekeeper, Danny Ferguson, said he finds most fascinating about working with bees.

"A hive is an organic manufacturing machine," he said. "Individually, each bee has a small job, but together, their power is tremendous."

Ferguson, who bought his first hives in 1988, still has only two hives today. He said he has never had more than four hives and has never sold honey. For him, beekeeping is a hobby that allows him to watch the hives at work and collect honey for personal use and to give away to family and friends.

"It makes great presents," he said.

Spangler recommends new beekeepers find someone to guide them as they learn. He said when he was starting out, he got a lot of help from Thurman Forrester, a beekeeper in Landrum.

"Get a mentor," he advised. "There's a lot of incorrect information online about keeping bees."

Encouraging people to be serious and responsible beekeepers is part of Spangler's mission, he said.

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FEATURE

Honeybees at risk

Close up view of a brood frame showing bees in larval form. Photo by Doug Dickerson.

Beehives in place. The bottom section is a brood chamber where the queen lays her eggs. The upper sections, called supers, are where bees store the honey. Photo by Doug Dickerson.

26 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

Spangler said he agrees with reports that honeybees are at risk today. One major cause he cited is a reduction in the number of the trees and other flowering plants on which they rely.

"When people clear land and then replant with pines, they may be helping the environment in some ways, but they're not helping the bees," Spangler said. "Bees need the poplars, maples, sourwoods and other hardwoods."

Spangler said bees are also endangered by farmers and homeowners using chemicals on their trees, flowers, vegetables and other plants. The timing of the chemical spraying is critical, he said. According to Spangler, if people would spray in the evening rather than early in the day, the impact on bees would be far less. Honeybees are not active at night, he said, and the poison would be dissipated by the time they come out in the morning and begin gathering pollen.

Using chemicals and medicines in the

hive is also detrimental to the bees’ longterm health, according to Spangler. He and Ferguson both use natural solutions to combat hive beetles, varroa mites and other common hive pests and diseases.

For example, to protect against varroa mites, rather than using Apistan in the hives, Spangler and Ferguson put a screen (8 holes per inch) on the bottom of each hive. The mites fall through the screen instead of harming the brood (the young bees laid by the queen). If you use Apistan, Spangler said, over time the mites develop resistance to it, just as humans do to antibiotics, and it is then harder to eliminate the mites.

To control hive beetles, he spreads milky spore granules on the ground outside each hive twice a year. He buys the milky spore granules, which he said is a natural product.

Ferguson also recommends keeping the hives full – he said waxworms can be a problem if empty frames are left in a hive. He also said he checks the brood frames to see pattern of brood the queen is laying. A healthy queen will usually lay brood starting in the center and moving outward, he said. If the brood is erratically placed, with empty sections scattered throughout the frame, the queen may be sick or old.

FEATURE

Honey

The amount of activity at a hive is a good indicator of how much honey a hive will produce. Spangler and Ferproduction guson both said that amount varies tremendously, from less than 2 gallons to about 8 gallons per hive.

The timing of robbing the hives can also be important. Fergu Ferguson tries to separate the early honey, which he said in his hives is usually largely made from poplar pollen, from the prized sourwood honey that comes a little later. To do that, he watches the trees and the bees to see what is flowering and where the bees are gathering.

As soon as the sourwood trees come into bloom, he removes the frames of early honey and replaces them with empty frames for the bees to fill with mostly sourwood honey.

Spangler, however, doesn’t separate types of honey. He mixes all the honeys together to get a consistent color and flavor and sells it as raw local wildflower honey.

Being Spangler and Ferguson also agree that beekeepers are bound to be stung occasionally, but they said serious problems from being stung are extremely rare unless a person has a severe allergic reaction.

“Most of my stings have come while I’m putting on or taking off my bee suit,” Spangler said. “It’s also good to avoid using a weedeater or chainsaw immediately at the hives. Honeybees don’t like the vibration. I’ve seen them try to sting a weedeater.”

If a honeybee is hovering near you, Spangler said, don’t swat at it. They can sense your fear and will be more likely to sting you. If one does land on you, try to scrape it away from the skin rather than slapping at it, he said, because if it does sting you, more poison will be released if the bee is pinched or squeezed than if it is just scraped off.

“But in general,” Spangler said, “it’s not dangerous to keep bees if you use a little common sense. Yellowjackets are far more dangerous. They’re mean.”

Ferguson said hives react differently to stimuli, and you just have to pay attention.

“Hives have personalities, just like people,” he said. “Some are laid back, some are irritable.”

Spangler agrees. He said the amount and type of activity at each hive tells a lot about the hive’s nature, and you just have to watch.

Spangler said he respects and likes his honeybees, and he talks to them often.

“I’d rather be around bees than some people I know,” he said.

Lee Spangler holds a frame of honey beside the extractor. He cuts off the tops of the wax cells, places the frame in the extractor and turns it on. The extractor removes the honey using centrifugal force. Photo by Doug Dickerson.

A frame in a hive, ready for bees to fill with honey. Photo by Doug Dickerson.

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FEATURE

Beekeeping process

Photos by Danny Ferguson unless otherwise noted.

1

Two three-pound packages of bees from Brushy Mountain Bee Farm.

2

Assembling a frame.

5

Loading the new bees into the empty hive.

6

Preparing the queen cage to be put in the hive. The cage end is plugged with sugar candy that the bees eat to free the queen. This process gives the bees time to get used to the queen, encouraging them to accept her.

28 LIFEI NO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

FEATURE

3

Placing a sheet of foundation wax in a frame.

4

Placing the frames in the hive.

7

The bees in their new hive.

8

Placing a jar of sugar syrup at the hive. The syrup will feed the bees until they build up brood and until spring plants are flowering so the bees can feed themselves.

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Don Andrews , CFP (828) 692-9006 117 W. Barnwell St. Hendersonville a075036@allstate.com

Š 2011 Allstate Insurance Company

9

Checking the hive. The smoker helps calm the bees.

11

A frame ready to be capped and drained of honey. Capping cuts off the top of the wax so the honey can be removed. Danny Ferguson uses a manual draining and scarping method to extract honey, while Les Spangler speeds up the process using an extractor.

10

A frame pulled out of the hive to check on the bees' progress.

12

Les Spangler's finished jars of local wildflower honey. Photo by Doug Dickerson.

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32 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

The Oaks Bed & Breakfast in Saluda.

FEATURE

Restoration found

at The Oaks

Written by SAMANTHA HURST Photographs by DALE POTRUSKI

An inviting front porch, underneath the breadth of branches from a 200-year-old oak tree, beckons to guests of The Oaks Bed & Breakfast in Saluda.

The oak provides shade and respite from the sultry summer days and entices guests to lounge savoring a glass of Southern sweet tea as they get to know innkeepers Dale and Donna Potruski.

Dale and Donna first met at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando; both having spent most their lives in hospitality working for hotels, resorts, high-end restaurants and nightclubs.

Since, the two have owned three bed and breakfast properties, including The Oaks, which they purchased six years ago.

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FEATURE

“It was a gorgeous house with so much history and we love that both we and our guests can walk right into such a unique and historic town like Saluda.”

- Dale Potruski

34 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

How did the Potruskis make their way to Saluda?

“Just the hand of God,” Dale said. “We were already smitten with Asheville, in love with Hendersonville, but when a deal we had on another property in Hendersonville fell through, we found this place had come on the market.”

The Potruskis loved the east coast – their last two B&Bs were located in St. Mary’s and St. Augustine, Fla. They took pleasure in those seaside escapes, yet the mountains tugged at them.

“This town [Saluda] always drew us in … it’s like Mayberry and we love it,” Dale said. “We searched all over for the right property. That’s kind of the fun thing – the hunt – finding a property that’s just right.”

The Oaks’ past and proximity made it feel just right.

“It was a gorgeous house with so much history and we love that both we and our guests can walk right into such a unique and historic town like Saluda,” he said.

A classic Queen Ann Victorian, the original home that now serves as The Oaks was built on Pace family property in 1895.

Physician E.B. Goelet and wife, Julia, made the space their home until 1906 when it began its work as an inn, warmly welcoming guests to Saluda. Hundreds of travelers made their way to Saluda by rail in those days to find restoration in the mountain breezes.

The Oaks, named as such for the giant oak trees that inhabited the lawns, served among 40 such lodges and inns of the time.

Today guests find themselves immediately taken by the inn’s historic Victorian details as well as ornate crystal chandeliers, a library displaying leather-bound books and intriguing architectural details.

“My wife is so into the details,” Dale said. “You should see at Christmas time the garland draping from every banister and mantel.”

Right now every room in the inn is graced by the presence of fresh flowers and special touches.

Each of the six years the Potruskis have owned the home, they have worked to update the grand old lady.

One year the inn was raised to reinforce the foundation of the more than 100-year-old home. Dale said he was like a kid at Christmas waiting to discover what might be found underneath – gold predating the Civil War maybe.

Yet, only three things were really discovered – an old medicine bottle, an antique spoon and a croquet set. The croquet set hasn’t seen a ton of use, he said, but they did have it cleaned up and it currently awaits anyone looking to strike up a game.

Inside this well-kept home what guests discover only further nods to the home’s history. The dining room chandelier made of Venetian Murano glass was recently lovingly brought back to life by the same man who had before restored chandeliers in the Biltmore.

Guests making their way up the beautiful staircase at the inn’s entrance will discover four guest rooms with private baths. This Victorian remains quite true to its time with authentic color palattes in the recently restored rooms – a calming green, romantic

FEATURE

insidethe Oaks The Study

The study features a historic mantel with built-in bookcases serving as home to leather-bound and contemporary books

for guests to peruse. Some of the Potruski's prized portions of the home include the crystal chandeliers located in this

room and several others. These rooms also have tall ceilings, allowing for large Christmas trees in the winter.

The Green Room The green room is the largest guest room at the inn. A vin-

tage settee and matching chair provide comfortable seating

in this sunny second-floor suite, complete with an over-sized

full private bath, an antique queen-sized four poster bed, mirrored dressing table, chest of drawers, paddle fan, cable TV with remote and individually controlled heat and air.

The Dining Room

The dining room of The Oaks boasts a recently restored

chandelier, a large dining table where guests convene for

breakfast and a private table with views of the property's side yard. The Potruskis work to ensure a nice beverage table is available with coffee every morning by 7 a.m.

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FEATURE

Above: Detroit Lion Will Heller visited The Oaks Bed & breakfast while traveling to the area in May 2011.

Below: The Potruskis invite guests to pick any one of numerous quiet spots on the home's serene porch to rest and enjoy a glass of sweet tea and a book.

36 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

This couch/daybed inside the Treetops suite was handmade from tree branches by a local artisan.

garnet and hydrangea-inspired periwinkle.

Each room also contains its own distinct treasures. The green room, once the home’s master bedroom, offers a surprisingly large master bath, while the romantic garnet room also gives one the feeling of being up in the top of the trees and secluded from the rest of the world.

The Turret Room is actually comprised of two small rooms. Dale said is quite the favorite with groups of girlfriends or golf buddies escaping to the mountains because it offers three twin beds and a unique view of the front lawn.

The Potruskis pay such close attention to detail, Dale said, because after many years in hospitality they know just how much the small comforts count to returning guests.

A guest can take part in nightly conversations with other guests or grab a book and sneak off to one of the many private spaces – the inn’s side balcony with wrought-iron furnishings, a back patio table surrounded by wild plants or even their own private balcony overlooking the woods if staying in one of the cottage suites.

Inside the two cottage suites – the Acorn and the Treetops – additional sur-

prises await. The Treetops suite's furnishings include a king-sized bed and rocking chairs handmade from tree branches, specially smoothed and carved for style and comfort. The Acorn suite, meanwhile, is family and even pet friendly. Dale tries to remember to keep popcorn around for kids, as well as dog food bowls and treats for furry family members.

After a comforting night’s sleep, guests can make their way downstairs as early as 7 a.m. for a cup of coffee. Then the feast begins.

“Mealtime was always an event in my home growing up,” Dale said. “My dad on Sundays would let my mom stay in bed and he cooked breakfasts – getting all of us kids help out.”

Dale said while some inns might get away with a bagel and fruit cup, that’s not enough in his book. He challenges himself to make sure guests are delighted with their first meal of the day. This means whipping up stuffed banana cream cheese French toast with chocolate chips and sausage or a summer squash frittata.

“This [running a B&B] is fun because on a smaller scale you can pretend to be a Hilton in terms of quality but without the cookie cutter experience,” Dale said. •

FEATURE

Lamps inside The Oaks Bed & Breakfast cast a warm glow onto the porch, welcoming in guests for a restful evening.

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FEATURE

Creating a Room of Comfort and Convenience

Written by GILLIAN DRUMMOND Photograph submitted

In creating a room that works for you, make sure it reflects your personality and character, and is both functional and comfortable. The English decorator John Fowler expressed this goal perfectly: “To feel that one can sit down anywhere without having to move a chair.”

Clearly, his priority is comfort. And, if you think about it, so is yours. It sounds simple, but getting there requires several practical steps.

38 LIFEI NO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

WHO OCCUPIES & HOW

The first step is to answer two basic questions: Who occupies the space, and how do they use it? It sounds easy, but you can’t imagine how many people skip this step, only to find out later that their choice of furnishings is inadequate for the room’s purpose. Consider these questions carefully, and write down the answers.

FLOOR PLAN

The next step is to draw up a floor plan;

recently in this column I discussed how to prepare one. A floor plan is always the place to start. Be sure furniture is arranged for good traffic flow and that balance is maintained by arranging seating around a focal point, such as a fireplace or a great view.

COMFORTABLE SEATING

In choosing comfortable seating, use mostly upholstered furniture. Use a mix of chairs and sofas to form conversation groups. In a small room, arrange the

furniture to accommodate one group of at least six people. In a larger room, consider having two or more groupings, which could be for as few as two people or as many as six or more.

Also, use pull-up chairs with wood or painted frames to make a grouping more interesting.

Beyond choosing furniture that is comfortable, how else can you bring comfort to your seating arrangements? Do so by using tables and lamps. Place tables adjacent to the chairs and sofas.

On each table put a lamp that casts a soft light – bright enough for reading, but not too bright or poorly placed so that it shines in anyone’s eyes.

TABLES

Tables are an important element in a room that is devoted to comfort and convenience. Keep tabletops clear for objects of beauty that express your personality. Use tables in a variety of sizes and shapes. Select from a wonderful array of woods and other finishes: mahogany, walnut or oak. Adding tables that are painted, lacquered or made of metal is an other good option.

Also, trunks and boxes can add variety and convenience as surfaces and storage. In addition to tables with legs, add ones with pedestal bases. When considering tables and chairs, be careful not to use furniture with too many legs in one room. Variety is the spice of life.

I love skirted tables. They bring in color and can literally round out a room or fill a space nicely. Line and interline each skirt with flannel and have it measured and cut so that it just breaks on the floor. For extra detail, add trim or a band of contrasting fabric around the bottom edge. Many have considered skirted tables passé for a number of years; however, they are coming back into style even in more contemporary interiors.

VISUAL EXCITEMENT

What else can add visual excitement? I use decorative screens; they are pieces of art that add drama. What’s more, they add needed height to a room. All rooms benefit not just from variety but also a change in scale. A perfect example of a room that suffers because everything is the same height is a dining room that lacks a chandelier or other furnishing that lifts the eye.

Putting a room together is an experience in creating beauty, and it requires order, direction and discipline. Make a plan, think it through, and keep in mind that decorating is a process. Great rooms are very personal, express a sense of humor and provide a touch or a vision that’s just a bit unexpected. If you get stuck in one or more steps in this process, it is the perfect time to ask a designer for help.

So often my clients come to me saying, “I want to change this room but I don’t know where to even begin.” I hope these suggestions have answered that question and will help you to create a room that works for you in every respect. Whether you’re entering it to work, relax or join guests for an evening of companionship, you won’t have to move a single chair to be comfortable. • Gillian Drummond has her design firm Drummond House Co. in Tryon. You can see her website at www.drummondhouseco.com and reach her at gillian@gilliandrummond.com.

&

SALON

BOUTIQUE

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FEATURE

40 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

Slow Food enthusiasts file down the buffet table, taking samples of a wide variety of dishes prepared with local and regional ingredients.

Photo by Erik Olsen.

FEATURE

Slow Food Foothills Written by CAROL LYNN JACKSON Photographs submitted

The Slow Food Movement is a response to fast food and the homogenization of food and food culture around the world.

Founded in Italy in 1986 by charismatic Italian gourmand Carlo Petrini, Slow Food has grown into a phenomenally successful movement with more than 85,000 members in 45 countries.

Known as the "WWF of endangered food and wine," Slow Food not only focuses on a slower, more natural and organic lifestyle that complements nature but also works to preserve dying culinary traditions, conserve natural biodiversity and protect fading agricultural practices threatened in this age of mass consumerism.

At the heart of this “gastro-vism” is a deeply passionate “rediscovery” of the conviviality of good, clean, fair food and of time spent around a table with family and friends.

Chapters and sub-chapters known as “conviviums” lead communities on gastronomic journeys through the practices and traditions of the world's ethnic cuisines, from the artisanal cheeses of Italy to the oysters of Cape May and the

native American turkey. Notable Slow Food representatives—such as Alice Waters of Chez Panisse and Michael Pollan of “Omnivores’ Dilemma”— have penned many books on the subject of slow food, its history and possible futures. The movement, from provincial to metropolitan to national and international also raises controversial issues such as childhood obesity living parallel with the battle against hunger in the world.

Regional Slow Food groups include Slow Food Upstate in the Greenville, S.C. area and Slow Food Asheville, which existed before the Polk County area created, Slow Food Foothills. We are technically a “sub-chapter” of the Slow Food Asheville convivium but quite capable of matching regional numbers in monthly potluck attendees, diverse local food production and enthusiasm for building Founding farmers Lee and April Mink in Wyoming in 2010. Photo submitted. community.

The drivers behind the formation of Slow Food Foothills are founding farmers Lee and April Mink of LEAP Farm in Mill Spring. On their farm in October of 2011, more than 125 “Slow Polks” as they have come to be known, converged to celebrate the summer bounty of homegrown food and feasted from AU GU ST 2 0 1 2

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FEATURE

issue of t e iv t c e n n o c The ood f w lo s : ls il ooth life in our F Welcome Slow Foodie Sub-chapter!!

On behalf of Slow Food Asheville, we would like to take a moment and welcome you to our convivium. We are excited to help set up your subchapter, and get to know each of you and your ideas. As your “mother” chapter, we are more than willing to help you in any area that you need, and are here to answer any questions you may have.

Being able to have smaller communities involved in Slow Food, and affiliated with our chapter will only strengthen our over-all goals. It is very important for all of us interested in the preservation and sustainability of our nation’s food and agriculture system to pull together, no matter the size. Everyone has a role, and can bring something special to the table.

Thank all of you for putting forth effort and time to this wonderful organization. We are excited to see your upcoming events and participatory actions put in to effect for the greater WNC Slow Food family.

Have fun, and let’s start making a difference together!

- Slow Food Asheville Board Above: A letter from Slow Food Asheville.

an 80-foot potluck table on the bucolic farm setting within the Bright’s Creek Community.

Farmer Lee Mink said it’s crucial to educate local consumers about the fact that Polk County is diverse and thriving when it comes to farming.

“Polk County is strong in supporting local food but of course, we need more people committing to it. We grow and make almost everything we need, and with good variety: produce, fruits, meats, eggs, herbs, breads and traditionally preserved foods,” Mink said.

Consecutive monthly potlucks continue and reflect a spectrum of folks who 42 LIFEI NO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

care about promoting and preserving the food culture of this region through the relationships between farmers, the table, families and the community. The groups represent local growers, those faces and products we see at the various Polk County Farmer’s markets; local business people; as well as dancers, artists, children, teenagers, pastors, beer and wine makers and more. Churches and Outreach ministries find SFF a resource for incorporating clean and fair food concepts into their studies on spirituality.

Slow Food Foothills Project Projections: Slow Food Foothills chapter programs and events will include but are not

limited to fresh and sustainable cooking classes, sustainable growing practices, heritage foods education – preserving food traditions; Slow Food on Campus – working with students and educating about sustainable food systems, Slow Food in industry, restaurants and local events; Gleaners for Good; Slow Food events in WNC, gathering together to enjoy food and Slow Food family-style picnics and housewarmings - no gathering too small.

People interested in joining Slow Food Foothills are welcome to reach out to Carol Lynn Jackson by e-mail at caroljackson@tds.net. •

Create your own refreshing summer salad with produce and herbs from local farms.

1 (4- to 4 ½-pound) watermelon 3 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes 1 medium sweet onion 4 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta 3 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes, removing seeds.

Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Add tomatoes, onion and mint to the watermelon and toss gently.

Add the feta and toss again.

In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Pour over tomato mixture, coating evenly. Refrigerate or serve immediately.

FLEA

ONE

&tomato salad

DON’T LET

TURN MORE

INTO

Watermelon

Frontline Plus, Capstar and Advantix

Visit Purrrfect Bark in Columbus for the latest in flea and tick care.

40 E. Mills St., Columbus, N.C. 28722 (Mills St. & Walker St.) facebook.com/purrrfectbark • 828-894-2444

FEATURE

PJ’s Fashions Creating friendships through fashion

Written by SAMANTHA HURST Photographs by SAMANTHA HURST

Customer Ann Hodge looks over a boldly printed skirt with a basic orange top that Kelley Steinman suggests for a fun summer outfit. The Steinmans work to ensure that shopping is fun for customers by making them feel like they are just hanging out with girlfriends.

44 LIFEI NO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

Vibrantly hued dresses, tailored jackets and coordinating jewelry peek out from the windows of PJ’s Fashions, which for the last five years has graced the corner of Rutherford Street in Landrum.

Inside, owner PJ Steinman and daughter, Kelley, aren’t looking to snag a quick sale from passersby, though. What they said they strive to do first is get to know a customer in order to truly understand what that woman needs and what she can’t live without.

“Any customer that enters this shop, we work to make sure they never leave here a stranger,” Kelley said. “I love when they come in and say to me, ‘I can sit and have a cup of coffee and you know what I like, so I don’t even have to worry about it.’”

Creating a specialized atmosphere for customers is something the Steinmans thrive on each and every day. PJ and her husband met when they both worked for Gucci in Palm Beach, Fla. Since then, the Steinman family has owned a variety of women’s boutiques for more than 24 years. Being in the business more than two decades on their own means they’ve accumulated a large number of loyal customers who go to them to fill their closets.

The Steinmans owned and operated

FEATURE

PJ's Fashions owner PJ Steinman, right, with daughter Kelley Steinman.

The Steinmans have owned a women's boutique for two decades.

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FEATURE

PJ Steinman works to reorganize the front window of PJ's fashions in Landrum. The Steinmans opened the shop after moving back to the area from Wilmington, N.C. Bottom: PJs also carries a wide assortment of accessories, including necklaces, earrings, scarves and hats.

Fashion 2000 in Tryon for many years before moving to Wilmington, N.C., where they owned a bridal boutique.

“When we came back to this area we came through and thought, ‘Landrum really needs a clothing shop,” said Kelley.

PJ chimed in, “We had been receiving so many calls and emails asking us to come back already. We’ve been very, very blessed to have had such an incredible following.”

The following has spread far and wide over the years. The Steinmans said they have customers they continue to ship to that now live in California, Colorado, Palm Beach, Fla. and even Tribeca.

Around Landrum, the UPS truck sitting outside PJ’s is like Santa Claus coming to town, Kelley and PJ said. They added that many of their customers magically seem to know when new shipments are being dropped off and will come shop right out of the boxes.

Present-like items being pulled out of those boxes each week always offer a special detail or embellishment that make them unique, PJ said. Hanging in the store now is a black and white floral maxi dress with a rosette embellishment up one shoulder – perfect for an evening out at a summer event. Along the walls of the store line unique jackets with decorative collars and pants to flatter all figures.

The Steinmans pride themselves on being able to dress anyone from the most casual client to the university president. One 46 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

The biggest compliment for the shop, though, is seeing a daughter, mother and granddaughter all coming in to shop together and all walking out with something they love.

- PJ Steinman of their favorite customers, comedian Pam Stone, often drops by to let the ladies dress her for special TV appearances and events, as well as daily life.

PJ said the biggest compliment for the shop, though is, seeing a daughter, mother and granddaughter all coming in to shop together and all walking out with something they love.

“We really try to create a look, put it all together and put the fun back in shopping for people,” Kelley said.

Kelley said PJ’s Fashions works with all specialty sizes from petite to plus size. They also make a point of not ordering too many of one item, so customers feel what they are getting is special.

“I love to do what we’re doing,” said Kelley Steinman. “I love helping someone find something they really love and feel comfortable with. Plus, these are our friends – I’m really attached to our customers.”

The Steinmans said it’s important to them to give back to the community in other ways when they can as well. The shop often helps with fashion shows to benefit schools, Hospice and Steps to Hope among other non-profits. •

Landscape Contracting also Available

PJ's Fashions in Landrum carries something for every stage of a modern woman's life, whether it be a graduation dress, a business suit or a dress to wear to a granddaughter's bridal tea.

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FEATURE

Tryon Country Club 100 years in the making

Written by LEAH JUSTICE Photographs submitted

Hitting a golf ball on Tryon Country Club's lush greens with spectacular views and a stream running through at Tryon Country Club (TCC). golfers can feel the history that now stretches almost 100 years.

Tryon Country Club emerged from one woman’s philanthropy and the community’s support to make her vision a reality.

The course began in a time where Tryon was bustling and advertised throughout the country as a vacation destination.

Artist and author Emma Payne Erskine envisioned a golf course community surrounded by homes on farmland she owned after her husband’s death.

Erskine included the community in her idea, asking for help from the Lanier Club, a group of Tryon residents who had a hand in all aspects of the town. As subscriptions were sold for membership, the country club was born. The town lent its equipment to help construct the course after Erskine enlisted renowned golf course architect Donald Ross to design it. The course still stands today much like it did in Ross’ design as a nine-hole course to be played like 18 holes with different tee locations.

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1917. Hole Number 9.

1931. Hole Number 6.

1942. Tennis courts.

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Erskine registered the property with the Polk Country Registrar of Deeds in 1914 with the survey clearly showing the golf course layout, according to TCC officials.

The country club for Tryon residents became the answer to the offerings of the resort hotels, offering golfing, swimming, tennis and a place for social functions.

Tryon businessmen embraced Erskine’s vision and began a campaign to raise funds necessary to build the course in 1915.

The course was complete by 1917 with the clubhouse completed in 1922. An original stream-fed swimming pool was constructed by 1923. Erskine died in 1924 as Emma payne Erskine Corwin after marrying Cecil Corwin.

TCC will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary with work under way to register the club on the National Register of Historic Places.

Tryon’s early days Tryon in the early 1900s was known as a tourist destination after the construction of the railroad (1887). The town offered several hotels where visitors from all over the country would flock to vacation in the Thermal Belt, known for its mild temperatures. Tryon quickly became known for its riding trails and the ability to be outdoors year round, as well.

The Southern Railway was perhaps the largest advertiser for Tryon, referred to by the railway as the Land of the Sky. Southern Railway’s brochure, "Autumn and Winter in the Land of the Sky," discussed the “lovely hamlet,” which is Tryon, the amenities of the hotels, vineyards and peach orchards. The railroad marketed Tryon to fill the trains and in hopes of selling their land.

Seasonal residents began migrating to Tryon after first coming as visitors. Many were aware of the recreational opportunities in North Carolina, including Pinehurst, a town built specifically as a golf resort, and Asheville, which was known for its sanatoriums for tuberculosis patients.

Many famous people visited and/or were part-time residents of Tryon in the early 1900s. In the 1930s F. Scott Fitzgerald and his friend, Ernest Hemingway, both visited Tryon. Fitzgerald was known to enjoy time at TCC. Other famous visitors to the country club were screen actor David Niven, Mrs. Cal-

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1914 survey.

Robert A. Leonard became TCC's first golf pro.

vin Coolidge (Grace), Mrs. George C. Marshall (Elizabeth), Maurice “Lefty” and Nora Flynn. Nora Flynn was the sister of Lady Astor.

Emma remembered she had once met Donald Ross at the Grove Park Inn while visiting with her husband. Ross designed the course there, as well as Pinehurst. Ross agreed to design the Tryon course TCC’s beginning with someone else constructing his design.

TCC’s original plot shows lots surrounding it as Emma had first Charles Edwin Erskine and his wife, Emma Payne Erskine, designed, but those lots never came to fruition. found Tryon in its early days while visiting from Racine, Wisc. in With design in hand, Emma went to the Lanier Club to help 1891. Charles was the secretary for the Case Equipment Corpocollect subscriptions for $1,500 each. Her contribution, other than ration, a large construction equipment manufacturing company. the 54 acres for the course, was the gift of Ross. Emma purchased Emma was a painter, writer and mother of six children. She was $10,000 of shares in the corporation services to provide funds to also the daughter of Alfred Payne, a founder of the Chicago Art complete the construction of the golf course.

Institute.

At about the same time, in 1916, Mimosa Inn in Lynn burned The Erskines built Lynncote, which is still family owned between Lynn and Tryon, with Lynncote being their second home for many to the ground. Mimosa Inn had included a nine-hole golf course, years. Charles began to invest heavily in land around Tryon, becom- casino and bowling alley. Mimosa Inn was rebuilt, but without a golf course. ing a substantial landowner in Polk County.

Mimosa Inn had hired Robert A. Leonard to construct its golf Charles died in 1908, and his cash assets were divided equally among his six children and Emma. Emma received the title to all of course so it was only fitting for Leonard to supervise the construction of the TCC course as well. his land. Emma built houses on the land and put them up for sale.

The Town of Tryon decided to pitch in and help with conShe bought more land and decided a spot of farmland encircled by struction, lending TCC equipment to get the course built. Leonard vineyards would be a great golf community surrounded by lots she supervised and became TCC’s first golf pro. He later built the clubwould also sell.

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Fifth tee.

house in the Adirondack Style long before the Blue Ridge Parkway introduced that style of log construction. The pro shop and storage building are also representative of the local craftsmen using local materials to build.

“The Tryon Country Club was a success,” states the historic registry application. “Membership was drawn from full time as well as part-time residents; in addition, guests of the hotels were welcomed.

A spring-fed swimming area was constructed in the middle of the course, tennis courts were built and a clubhouse was completed by 1922. With the opening of the clubhouse, the entrance to Tryon Country Club was relocated to Country Club Road, and the holes on the course were renumbered so that the players would begin and end at the clubhouse.”

Tournaments and Caddies Golf matches between players were played weekly. Four ball matches where teams of two persons match their best score versus another team were diligently reported in the local newspapers weekly.

“A 1923 article in the Polk County News stated that ‘the reputation for a splendid golf course of the Tryon Country Club has spread over a large part of the country…(there is) great value to any community of a good golf course. This is especially true of Tryon for here gather people from every part of the United States for rest and recreation.’”

TCC was known as a top spot for young people to earn money and learn the game of golf by serving as caddies. Until the 1960s caddies were a part of every golfing event. Special tournaments were held for the caddies, with TCC claiming to have launched the careers of 20 professional golfers and 10 professional golf superintendents'.

Local high school teams for boys and girls played at TCC, and with some teams won state championships over the years. Lloyd McKaig and Fred Edwards Jr. of Tryon Country Club won state recognition. The Polk County High School golf team uses TCC as its home course today.

One of the most famous caddy tournaments occurred in 1951, when TCC golf pro Ted Fox invited his friend Sam Snead, the reigning Masters champion and the No. 1 professional in long driving, to give a clinic and play a round in Tryon. The caddies vied for the chance to caddy for Snead. The winner was Fred Edwards Sr., the father of the current TCC maintenance chief. Most people say they remember Snead hitting some 1-iron shots that finished in front of the No. 1 green some 270 yards away, a feat golfers say is beyond impossible.

Caddies began to be less needed in Tryon when one golfer invented a motorized trolley for a golf bag. That trolley, the Kangaroo Caddy, is still manufactured in Columbus today.

Hole no. 4 by the railroad track.

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TCC upgrade Around 1935 news came that Ross had successfully converted the sand greens on the Pinehurst #2 course to grass. The membership at TCC was ready to follow suit since grass was easier to maintain than oiling the sand to keep down the dust when water wouldn’t work in the heat of the day.

At times during the Depression when, money was tight, sheep and cows were used to keep the grass cut at TCC. With the introduction of grass for the greens, the membership decided that five of the greens needed to be repositioned. The pool was rebuilt its present location. These projects and the building of a new pro shop resulted in the bankruptcy of TCC. In 1942, officers of TCC met to reorganize the club and by 1943 the club was renamed the Tryon Golf and Tennis Club.

In 1958 more changes were needed. The clubhouse needed heating and air conditioning, and a new roof and updated bathrooms were also added. The pro shop got an addition to store the trolleys as well as storage out back for new motorized golf carts. A bathroom on the course also needed to be built and the pro needed a house to live in. Golf cart paths around the tees and greens were also necessary.

TCC purchased an additional 70 acres in 1965.

“The era of the 1960s to 1980s was an active one for the young golfers at Tryon Country Club,” states the National Historic Registry application. “This small town, Tryon, was among the first in the state to field a golf team. And there is a period of 13 years when the Tryon High School golfers all played college golf either as walk-ons to the team or as recruits. They were the years of Fred Edwards Jr. and Lloyd McKaig.

Margaret Hannon, sister of the golf pro, in 1964 was the ladies state champion. She started the Blue Ridge Ladies Golf Association which continues today to host tournaments among the lady golfers at member country clubs. These events are held monthly with a final two-day tournament for overall champions each year. Margaret continued to dominate the ladies golf at the state level throughout the 1970s and up into the 1990s. She was challenged by another Tryon Country Club lady, Inky Cloud, in the 1980s and 1990s. Together these ladies traveled throughout the Blue Ridge and beyond, telling everyone about the Tryon Country Club.”

An extra green was added in 1968 and the current pool was constructed around 1970.

TCC now consists of 124 acres, with the course comprising 60 acres and is home to many golf tournaments and social events for members and the community. See membership information on page 54. Editors note: Jane Templeton provided information for this article.

Tryon Country Club, 393 Country Club Road, Tryon N.C. 28782, 828-859-9561. TCC Hours: Pro Shop open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., practice range open 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. www.tryoncountryclub.com

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Membership Regular membership Regular members are entitled to unlimited golf and all regular members in good standing shall have the right to vote at meetings of the corporation, and shall have the rights and privileges of the club and facilities subject to rules established by the board. A regular member may transfer at any time to associate membership.

Initiation fees: $1,000 Regular membership initiation fee may be paid in full or in four installments of $250 each Dues: $1,485 annual, $126.75 monthly or $374 quarterly* 54 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

Sports membership Sports members are entitled to unlimited golf and shall have all the club privileges of regular members except: voting, dissolution rights, plus sports members are not eligible for membership in the TWGA or TMGA. This class of membership is limited to no more than 100 memberships and not to exceed 300 when combined with the regular class category.

Initiation fees: $500. Pay a $250 application fee and $250 when accepted.

Dues: $1,648 annual, $144.50 monthly or $427.50 quarterly.*

Non-resident membership Non-resident membership is open to those whose primary residence is located at least 25 miles from the club. Non-resident members have all the club privileges of regular members except voting and dissolution rights, except that nonresident members are not eligible for membership in the TWGA or TMGA. This class of membership would be limited to 25 members at any one time.

Initiation fees: $500 Dues: $980 annual, $85 monthly or $248 quarterly*

Associate membership Associate members are limited to play golf six times a year on a fee basis and shall have all other privileges of regular membership except the right to vote and dissolution rights.

Initiation fees: $300 Dues: $352 or three payments of $120* Associate member dues must be paid in full at the time of membership. Associate members will receive only one invoice each year to be paid in full.

Junior Membership Junior members shall have all the rights and privileges accorded regular membership except: Junior members shall not possess the right to vote; shall not be eligible to participate in the division of the proceeds generated by the dissolution of the club; are not eligible to serve on the board of directors; shall pay the initiation fee required of sports members at the time that their application is accepted; shall pay one-half the initiation fee upon their acceptance as a junior member and one-half not later than the second anniversary of their acceptance as a junior member.

Junior members who have attained the age of thirty must convert their membership to that of a regular member or a sports member and they must pay any difference due to the club in initiation fees and dues. * Includes $12 service-charge fee

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POLK KNIGHTS

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FEATURE

Polk Knights Chess takes hold in Polk County

Written by SAMANTHA HURST Photographs by SAMANTHA HURST

amounts to remember the following 13 things because there is a quiz at the end of the class. When you get out in the real Russell Ruff carefully eyes pieces on world and are confronted with a comthe chessboard before making his move. plicated situation, you have to think and He hasn’t always been this methodiconsider a variety of factors.” cal in his thinking but after three years of Crissey said his own father was always playing chess through the volunteer Polk an advocate of education and intellect, and Knights program, he’s caught on. he taught Crissey how to play chess when “I really like playing chess because it he was fairly young. As Crissey made his challenges me,” Ruff said. way through high school, and particularly Ruff ’s big sister through Big Brothers in college, he worked hard to see just how Big Sisters, Lynne Parsons, saw Ruff had far he could push his skill level. Soon he an interest in the game when he was just a was playing against other professionals but fifth-grader three years ago. he felt himself losing interest as he went Parsons pulled volunteers, including Dr. higher in the world of chess. He said there Brian Crissey, together to create a program players make more conservative moves at the middle school. Crissey himself did and it becomes less interesting. not hesitate to help because he said he’s Crissey was ready to wipe the chesslong known the benefits of chess for kids. board clean and get back to the real reason “When a student learns to play chess, he loved the game – its beauty. the student is going to have to learn how “For me, there are a lot of people who to think,” Crissey said. “In many cases get into the upper regions of chess who in our education system the education confuse their self worth with their abil-

ity to play chess. When you beat them, it destroys their ego – they get depressed or angry. I didn’t like that behavior,” Crissey said. “What I found in the game was the beauty of it, the way in which the pieces interact in intricate ways. My rise to the top of the chess world was limited by the interest I had in that beauty.”

So, Crissey left the professional chess world behind and played the game only casually. He found the splendor of the game again when he began teaching at Polk County High School. While there he established a chess club and even organized competitive tournaments with other schools. Eventually this turned into his work with the program at Polk County Middle School.

For the second year, Polk County Middle School students met every Friday for an hour and 15 minutes to improve their understanding of chess. Now many of these students also meet once a month to play at Parson’s home, Morning Glory

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Brian Crissey teaches youth in the Serendipity Summer Camp about chess using a giant chess board and the students as chess pieces.

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Farm in Mill Spring.

Crissey said chess is more than just a game.

He said the practice teaches youth a variety of life lessons. He said the strongest of those lessons is the ability to think critically.

He said chess players have to understand how to take responsibility for their decisions. Crissey said the player has to consider what happens after a move occurs because they take each step.

“This helps one learn to slow down and look at all the alternatives before making a move,” he said.

Crissey added that slowing down one’s thought process and not rushing into a decision is a valuable tool. He said the game also gives youth a better grasp of when small victories are important and when to focus on a larger goal.

“We try and teach the kids not to be distracted by small gains within the game itself,” Crissey said. “You might have a fairly strong attack going that could win the whole game, but if you see a small pawn that could be easily taken and you take that move you could ruin the whole thing.”

Crissey said chess teachers encourage players instead to work toward checkmating the king and not being distracted. Yet, at the same time, if grabbing a small pawn can be done without being detrimental to your overall success then that can be beneficial, too. Crissey said that teaches kids a lesson about saving even small pieces or amounts of money, for example, to build on later in life.

FEATURE Crissey said they also instruct kids to watch out for gambits.

A gambit, Crissey said, is the other player offering you something that looks nice but you must study it closer because they may be baiting you into a decision that would actually benefit them in the long run.

“Again it’s thinking about long-term impact of moves and decisions that you make. The long-term thinking is one of the very important things that you learn when playing chess,” he said.

The game also teaches youth to find ways to work through obstacles that present themselves rather than giving up, Crissey said.

“The side effects of learning chess are so important,” Crissey said. “I see the impact on students as we do this; I always have, and it's really a beautiful thing.”

At Polk Central, Crissey said there is a Hispanic third-grader whose English was at a very basic level. He said the boy pretended he didn’t know how to talk and refused to answer questions in class, but the teacher could see he was smart. That teacher suggested the student take part in the chess program.

Crissey said the boy learned quickly and started beating fifthgraders at matches. Every Friday during the chess classes students with similar win-loss records get the opportunity to play against one another.

Crissey said this builds excitement in the students because they enjoy seeing their rankings and trying to move up the chess ladder.

This particular student worked his way up the ladder doing better than most fifth-graders. He eventually caught a reputation with his fellow third-graders as a chess wizard, and not too long later, Crissey said the boy began answering questions in class and improving his grades because he had gained confidence.

Another student, who comes from what Crissey called a challenging family environment, won a tournament during the year.

Crissey said one could see the pride this instilled in the student and that teachers even felt they noticed an improvement in his attitude and performance.

“It's fun and it helps them with their self-worth and validity in life,” Crissey said. “Plus, this is something they can take with them the rest of their life. They may not even understand that they are using chess skills later in life but it is a way of thinking that is instilled in them.”

Starting after the Christmas break this next school year, chess instruction will be available at all the elementary schools in the county because of a grant written by Emily Bartlett with Polk County Schools. The grant will also fund chess instruction in the system’s after school program.

To complete the story, Russell Ruff, who was the catalyst for the chess program, is teaching chess this year at Serendipity Kids Camp at Harmon Field, where he is a junior counselor.

Community members can learn more about players' progress by visiting the group’s website, Polk-Knights.org. •

Music in Rogers Park Amphitheater - Tryon, NC

August 10

Sol Driven Train opening withtheir children's show Sponsoredby Green River Outdoor Adventures

August 24

The Bad Popes Swayback Sisters Sponsoredby The Tryon Fine Arts Center

Friday Nights 7 to10 pm

www.firstpeaknc.com 800-440-7848 or 828-894-2324

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Photo by Erik Olsen

Your resource for local equestrian events and happenings

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APPOINTMENTS

Equestrian Events Caitlyn Poole - South Carolina High School Rodeo Association queen competes on national stage Local high school rider Caitlyn Poole set off mid-July for Rock Springs, Wyo., where she competed in the 2012 National High School Rodeo Finals (NHSRF).

In the competition, Poole competed against other young women from across the country in categories such as appearance, horsemanship, impromptu question, personal interview and speech/modeling. Contestants were also required to take a written test.

On her way to compete nationally, Poole had to first win the title of 2012 SC High School Rodeo Association Queen. In that competition she captured the highest score in horsemanship, riding Flashy Jazzgirl (aka Jazzy), a horse she leases from Brett Schmidtt of Anderson, S.C. Poole was also named most photogenic. Poole competes in barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, goat tying and girl's cutting categories of high school rodeo.

JULY July 25-28 Harmon Hopefuls at Harmon Field.

Info: Noreen Cothran, 864-457-3557.

AUGUST August 3 Derbyshire Stable Grand Opening, including a tour of the facility, will be held Aug. 3 from 3-6 p.m. The event is open to the public. Foothills Humane Society's On the Road team will also be on hand with animals for adoption.

August 3-5 Progressive Show Jumping (Back to School) at FENCE. Info: Cathy Cram, psjshows@aol.com, 803-649-3505.

August 3 and 5 Sport Psychology Mounted Clinic with Dr. Jenny Susser at Cross Creek Farm in Green Creek. For more information, contact Jennifer Baumert by email at cloverleajen@yahoo.com.

August 4 RVPC Mounted/ Unmounted Meeting. Info: Trayce Doubek, tmdoubek@ yahoo.com.

August 25 TR&HC Schooling Horse Trials at Windridge Farm. Info: Laura Weicker, office@trhcevents.org, 828-859-6109.

August 10 - 11 American Bull Riding Tour and Barrel Bash. WNC Agriculture Center, McGough Arena, Fletcher, N.C. Gates open 6 p.m.

August 25 Greenville Foothills Pony Club monthly meeting. Contact: chculbertson@earthlink.net.

August 11 RVPC Ratings Prep No. 3. Info: Trayce Doubek, tmdoubek@yahoo.com.

August 26 Arena Driving Trial at Windridge Farm.

Contact: Alicia Henderson windridge@ ioa.com.

August 11-12 Harmon Classics at Latta Plantation.

Info: Lewis Pack at 828-894-2721 or harmonclassics@aol.com.

August 18-19 BRHJA Summer’s End at Harmon Field.

Info: Lewis Pack at 828-894-2721 or harmonclassics@aol.com.

SEPTEMBER September 19 Presentation by Dr. Adriene Otto at the Harmon Field Log Cabin at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, email amaunder@windstream.net.

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Long Shadows Farm in Campobello is a crown jewel in the equestrian riding community.

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Long Shadows Farm Aiming to grow Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photographs by ERIK OLSEN

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Michael Atkins, Hannah Bryant and Stephanie Poole in front of Long Shadows Farm's barn.

Nestled in the beautiful foothills of Campobello, Long Shadows Farm is a crown jewel in the riding community with a 92-acre tract of rolling, vibrantly green farmland.

A full cross-country course with a water jump is well ridden, and cross-country schooling is open year round.

Michael Atkins bought the farm, once a training course for Michael Pollard, in 2008.

“When I bought the farm, I knew nothing about hunting, jumping or dressage. I had never even ridden an English saddle, so this was all new to me,” Atkins said. “My enjoyment came from trail riding in the mountains on my Missouri Fox Trotter with The Pisgah Trail Blazers, which is a group of riders dedicated to the upkeep and maintenance of the horse trails in Pisgah and DuPont National Forest's and Croft State Park, so the learning curve was pretty sharp.”

Atkins said he hopes to build an Olympic-size dressage arena, where riders can continue to train.

Stephanie Poole is currently Long Shadow’s director and trainer. She has students from beginner to Grand Prix. Poole herself has shown successfully at Madison Square Garden, Washington International as well as the A Circuit.

This experience shows in her passion for riding and knowledge of the show hunter/jumper arenas. All of Poole’s lessons are de64 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

Caroline Gilliam and Stephanie Poole.

fined to fulfill the needs of each of her students' individual goals.

Robin Dickie is a local rider who helps daily at the barn. Dickie also loves showing in the hunter show ring classes.

“We had a successful schooling show here [in May] and plan to have another in the fall. We have barbecues monthly for our boarders and we all enjoy the camaraderie,” Dickie said. “There are trail horses for trail riding and foxhunters for the field and we love working with problematic horses and their issues.”

Atkins said Cameron Horne also serves as another key player at Long Shadows.

“He doesn’t just feed and turn out the horses, he truly knows the horses,” Atkins said. “He can tell you what horse gets along with another, how they eat, when they aren’t feeling well or when you can’t put your finger on it but when there’s something not quite right.”

From the groundwork to the show ring, Atkins said Long Shadows Farm is committed to creating a harmonious understanding of the horse and human relationship.

Atkins plans to hold riding clinics in the future and more schooling shows. He also plans to use the cross-country course more and hold hunter derbies.

The Tryon Hounds ride out from the farm during hunt season and the River Valley Pony Club and the Greenville Foothills Pony Club regularly travel to the farm for schooling. •

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From the groundwork to the show ring, Atkins said Long Shadows Farm is committed to creating a harmonious understanding of the horse and human relationship.

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Fourth-place trail riders Sue Carrier and Nancy Hasselbring cool their mounts in the lake at the RVPC Hunter Pace.

River Valley Pony Club hosts hunter pace Written by BOOTS PLYLER Photographs by LOU SMITH

Angela McGehe and Patricia Dumit enjoy the trails at the RVPC Hunter Pace.

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An enthusiastic crew turned out for the Memorial Day weekend hunter pace River Valley Pony Club held at Croft State Park.

Croft has a lovely facility for equestrians with ample parking, a spacious picnic shelter and a large show ring as well as many pleasant trails to explore. Bobby Turner took on the task of planning the route and marking the trail. He provided a course with good length and lots of interesting landmarks along the way. Riders went over the old bridge, which meant that this ride had no water crossings.

There was a memorial beside the path for a colonel and his wife, two old chimneys and an old graveyard reminding the participants that Croft used to be a World War I Army base. Jumps were

APPOINTMENTS FEATURE

Sixth-place field hunters Brian and Carolyn MacCormack and Marie Solomon pose for the photographer at the RVPC Hunter Pace.

set up along the levee, but there were only a few log piles on the trail to hop over.

The highpoint of the day was a beautiful view of the lake with a chance to walk the horses in for a drink.

The pony clubbers, parents and other helpers are experienced in putting on a fun ride and feeding a crowd in style. The meal consisted of a hot pasta dish, salad with strawberries and garlic toast. This is a big fundraiser for the club, so they had a booth selling various horsey items and a cleaning station for tack as well.

The winning time of one hour, 22 minutes and 22 seconds for the field hunter division was earned by the trio of Sarah Hendricks of Mills River, N.C., Lauren Leistner and Brittany Whitmire, both of Brevard, N.C. who were just under the optimum time of one hour and 26 minutes. Jan Ellis of Catawba, was second with a time of one hour, 31 seconds and 37 seconds. Patti Lovelace and Lindsey Newsom of Tryon were the third place team with a time of one hour, 20 minutes and four seconds.

The trail rider division had an optimum calculated time allowed of one hour, 57 minutes and six seconds. The winners were Jan Smith of Columbus and Boots Plyler of Greenville, S.C. who came in at one hour, 57 minutes and 47 seconds.

In second were Deanna Baldwin of Mills River, N.C. and Lacey Hein of Hendersonville, N.C. with one hour, 52 minutes and 30 seconds as their time. The fearless five: Victoria Bailey of Woodruff, S.C., Chris and Kelly Cannon of Moore, Carly White from Spartanburg, S.C. and Emily Wojcik of Boiling Springs, S.C. were third with a time of two hours, two minutes and 40 seconds. The team of Susan Carrier of Rutherfordton, N.C., Nancy Hasselbring of Columbus, and Donna Searby of Tryon came in fourth at one hour, 50 minutes and 20 seconds. Rachel O'Brien of Landrum, Virginia Sullivan of Tryon and Maxine Winesett of Landrum had a time of two hours, four minutes and 12 seconds for fifth.

Visit www.wchpace.org for more information about the next riding series that will begin in September. •

The winning time of one hour, 22 minutes and 22 seconds for the field hunter division was earned by the trio of Sarah Hendricks of Mills River, Lauren Leistner and Brittany Whitmire, both of Brevard, who were just under the optimum time of one hour and 26 minutes.

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Heinrich goes the distance Written by BARBARA CHILDS

Judy Heinrich rides Lagni in a NATRC competitive trail ride.

Photo by Mary Leslie.

The most successful endurCompetitive trail rider Judy Heinrich has developed quite a re- ance horses are Arabs, but you lationship with her 12-year-old Kentucky Mountain saddle horse see other breeds and the reality Lagni in their competitive trail riding quest. is that most riders aren't trying Writer Barbara Childs talked with Heinrich, who resides at Fat to win. The official motto of Horse Farm in Columbus, about her adventures. the American Endurance Ride Conference is “to finish is to How did you become interested in competitive and distance win,” and I'm among the many riding? happy riders in the middle of the My husband and I got horses while living in Texas, and we packers. rode on ranch acres, state forests and back roads. After moving I also do competitive trail to Polk County, I learned about distance riding from my friend riding (CTRs) with the North and neighbor, Betty Hill. She is a longtime competitor in endurAmerican Trail Riding Conferance and competitive trail riding in the northeast. ence (NATRC). These events are Heinrich crests the top of the Bobcat rock climb during a Million Pines ride.

When she became active here, I volunteered to crew for her. typically 35-60 miles over two I loved what I saw about the sport: camping with your horse, the days. Some offer one-day 20-mile Photo by Becky Pearman. chance to ride in new places, the partnership you develop with rides. Horses are vet checked beyour horse, and how much fun everyone has. I became friends fore and after rides, and have pulse and respiration checks along with a lady from Aiken, and many months later I bought an exthe trail. NATRC rides have a minimum/maximum completion perienced distance horse from her. time so they are slower paced than endurance rides. There is also an obstacle component in which you are judged on navigating What kind of distance riding do you do? natural trail obstacles. Speed is not the main factor at CTR’s so I started doing limited distance endurance rides (LDs), which you tend to see a wider variety of breeds participating. are 25-30 miles in one day. Endurance rides are actually races, NATRC rides have separate placings for horses and riders: the so the fastest horse wins as long as it’s judged “fit to continue.” horse is placed based on condition and trail ability/willingness, Horses go through vet checks before, during and after rides and and the rider is placed based on riding skill and how you care for are pulled from competition at any sign of a physical problem. your horse during the ride and at camp.

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APPOINTMENTS FEATURE

TRAIL SAFETY TIPS 1. On your person, carry a cell phone, personal ID, knife or multi-use tool (to cut vines, wires), any meds like a bee sting Epi pen.

Judy Heinrich, right, with friend and distance mentor Betty Hill at a FENCE hunter pace event. Photo by Lou Smith.

What is special about your horse?

My horse is gaited; he is a 12-year-old Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse named Lagni. His registered name, Lagniappe, means “a little something extra” in Creole. Lagni's something extra is a really smooth trot in addition to his natural gait, which means he can use different muscles on the trails. He's got a fun personality and he's very laid back – we've heard “here's the low heart rate winner” more than once during vet checks. He is always ready to go, will cross anything, rarely spooks and is a “no drama” camper. He suits me perfectly.

What kind of tack do you use?

A fun thing about distance riding is that, other than the helmets required, anything goes in tack and dress. The priorities are safety and comfort. You see riders with English, Western and treeless saddles and bitted or bitless bridles, hackamores and rope halters. I use a halter/bridle with a snaffle and an endurance saddle that's very comfortable and has a lot of rings for attaching water bottles, sponges, raincoat, etc.

What kind of conditioning do you do for the sport?

We have great places to ride here, from our local CETA and FETA trails to Biltmore, Croft and DuPont nearby. I like to ride the hunter paces, which are like mini-CTRs. They're perfect for conditioning and getting the horse used to seeing new places. I also take a weekly lesson – a little dressage, some small jumps – to work on our skills and communication.

What are some of your competitive goals?

I'm not a hard-core competitor, but I like to experience improvement in each ride I do. That could be in the area of ride time, condition or horsemanship scores, and especially how well we do over obstacles – to me navigating obstacles says a lot about communication with my horse.

Find out more: The southeast is a great region for distance riding Anyone interested, can visit: aerc.org and natrc.org to learn more and see when upcoming rides are scheduled.

2. On your saddle carry drinking water, a hoofpick, some baling string for emergency tack repair, a luggage tag or something similar with contact information in case your horse gets loose and for long rides a sponge-on-a-rope for dipping into creeks to cool your horse (get your horse used to that at home first).

3. Anytime your horse wants to drink water along the trail – even in a mudhole – let him. Dehydration is serious and can cause a cascade of metabolic issues. Riders, drink your water, too.

4. Distance riders give their horses grazing breaks to help keep the digestive systems moving.

5. After prolonged exertion, esp. in heat and humidity, remember EDPP-MF: be sure your horse is eating, drinking, peeing and pooping normally and moving freely. Watch for any variations and be ready to consult your vet if you see any problems.

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Quadrille Team performs at Three Gables

Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photographs by BARBARA CHILDS

the arena and go across the arena. The fan formation presents itself when the riders come down centerline in pairs for a salute. Pairs Three Gables Farm filled with music and spectators Sunday, July approaching each other, making room to allow one horse to pass between approaching horses, is called the “pass through.” Thread 1 as the farm’s quadrille team took its place in the arena.

Three Gables Farm is located on Hunting Country Rd. in Tryon, the needle is a movement where riders coming in single file from the corners of the arena cross each other’s paths alternately on the where owner and trainer Georgie Arrigio organized the military centerline. musical event with precision and grace. The ladies and their horses The horses trotted and synchronized their movements well, regumeet during the week to practice exercises and movements for the lating their gaits and speed, and performing in perfect formations. quadrille.

The history of the quadrille dates back to the 17th century when Their execution was amazing and exact. The ladies each carried a horsemen and their horses performed special square-shaped forma- 5-foot American flag attached to their right stirrup and rode with one hand as the music flowed with the marching rhythms of Sousa’s tions and figures. The word “quadrille” is derived from the Spanish music, the “Star Spangled Banner,” the beat of Bruce Springsteen “cuadrillo,” meaning four. Quadrille is more popularly known as team riding with readily identifiable figures incorporated in the riding and a few country songs.

Two mini horses, Harry Potter and Igaboo, were the frosting on drill. the cake of this quadrille. The two performed with their child ownThe eight horses in the quadrille at Three Gables practiced their ers, demonstrating their skills with the help of trainer Arrigio. All spacing and alignment when they were riding single file and in colthe horses wore the traditional colors of red and blue with front leg umns. The column refers to the centerline, and the lateral column wraps; even the minis had red and blue leg wraps and halters with refers to riders when they turn individually from the long side of

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The history of the quadrille dates back to the 17th century when horsemen and their horses performed special square-shaped formations and figures. The word “quadrille” is derived from the Spanish “cuadrillo,” meaning four.

Quadrille is more popularly known as team riding with readily identifiable figures incorporated in the riding drill.

Opposite page: Georgie Arrigio and Kius carries an American flag along with a fellow quadrille team member. Top: Two youth bring out their mini horses, HarryPotter and Igaboo, during the quadrille event at Three Gables Farm. Bottom: Candy Payne riding Desi and Pam Paluck on her painted horse, Cowgirl.

red and blue ribbons. A feast of barbecue and home cooking was offered for the riders and spectators afterwards for this Fourth of July celebration.

The horses and their riders in the quadrille included: Arrigio on Kius, Nancy Brown on Joe, Candy Payne on Desi, Jennifer McInnes on Sunny Boy, Pam Paluck on Cow Girl, Chris Taddei on Gulliver, Pat Gentleman on Rafferty and Anastasia Brown on Dos Hombres.

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Krista Just and Suzannah Rodgers from Pee Dee Pony Club make a heart sign while mounted. Ann Haller is shown in the background.

Pony Club member

experiences camp

Written by KRISTA JUST, RIVER VALLEY PONY CLUB, D3/C1 HM Photographs by KENNETH JUST

day, we worked cross-country. We did some mini courses and single jumps. Then later in the day we walked our crosscountry course. We did beginner novic - that’s the black The River Valley Pony Club attended two summer horse numbers with the blue backing. My pony, Frodo, had never camps in June. Denise Ritacco organized the first camp for members at Alicia Henderson’s Windridge Farm. Helen Firby, run a cross-country course before and neither had I, so our meanwhile, was kind enough to let us use her guesthouse for round was not perfect, but I thought it was good for our first course. We also did an eventing dressage test. I was so proud the three nights.

Members had a short briefing on barn manners and things of my pony because he was on the bit and rounded. Our show jumping course was clear and great. we needed to remember to do. RVPC members were also My favorite part of this pony club camp was the third lucky to have Eric Dierks out to instruct us. The first day we night, when we took our horses swimming. My pony would arrived, my group rode flat in the morning and grids/gymnastics for the second ride. On the second day, we did course not swim, so a C got on him and swam him. I swam her pony a little and then got on a horse that would swim and swam work for the first ride and switched riding for the second with him. We took lots of pictures and had lots of fun. ride.

The other camp I attended was the Carolina Region Pony It was very interesting to watch the girls in my group ride Club regional camp at T. Ed Garrison in Clemson, S.C. for all my pony, he’s a lot faster than their horses, so it was cool to the pony clubs in our region. see their position change while riding on him. On the third 72 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

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Krista Just teaches her unmounted session on proper attire for pony club rallies.

"My favorite part of this pony club camp was the third night, when we took our horses swimming. My pony would not swim, so a C got on him and swam him.

I swam her pony a little and then got on a horse that would swim and swam with him. We took lots of pictures and had lots of fun."

Sammi Haase practices at the RVPC camp in mid-June.

– Krista Just

Our region is the Carolina region, consisting of North and South Carolina. I enjoyed seeing friends from the Pee Dee Pony Club who were on my Show Jumping team in Aiken, S.C. and bringing my horse Charlie to the camp.

The camp was a five-day camp, where we rode twice a day with five national examiners. Someone also taught several unmounted sessions to teach Ds about horse topics. I even taught a topic to other Pony Club members on formal/informal dress for different rallies.

My favorite part of the camp was the lessons with Ann Haller, who is an amazing instructor. I really enjoyed when she took us out to do pacing in the open field. Pacing is when you have a set distance, say 250 meters, that you try to cover in a minute. That would be a slow, but moving trot.

The fastest we did was 325 meters per minute – a controlled canter.

On the last day of the camp, the Cs went to Stoneridge Equestrian center to school cross country, while the Ds stayed behind and did a show jumping course. I was very happy with my horse’s progress throughout the camp and am very happy I attended. • AU GU ST 2 0 1 2

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Things to consider

before you adopt a racehorse Tips from pros Written by LYDIA JUENGER Photograph by KIRK GOLLWITZER

With the success of the “Trainers Challenge” started by Stewart Pittman, founder of the Retired Racehorse Training Project, the desire to own and retrain these beautiful thoroughbred athletes is becoming a popular trend. I think this is a good thing. However, before you adopt a racehorse, consider the following thoughts.

SETTLING DOWN The thoroughbred racehorse was bred and trained to run.

It most likely ran its first race by 2 or 2 1/2 years old. Its body type, is long and low to the ground at full speed. Its weight is primarily on its front end (shoulders). The rider’s (jockey’s) weight is over the shoulders and off their backs, “in the air.” The thoroughbred is usually left-handed. He is fed a high protein diet. His life is all about speed and high energy. Lydia Juenger works with Shifty, a former thoroughbred racehorse.

Knowing all this, you need to consider rehabilitation before retraining.

Rehabilitation should start with getting the horse off his racing high. Start with his feed - more fiber, less protein. Turn out on pasture but know you may have to start slowly. Use grass mix hay instead of alfalfa. Work to get his body shape a little rounder and less cut. Also make a point of spending lots of calming time together using slow grooming, hand walking and grazing.

TRAINING Training should start with a good foundation, going back to good basics. Use proper, in-hand, groundwork to stretch the rib cage equally on both sides. Get them to reach under themselves with the inside hind leg while doing small circles, at the walk, in-hand. This will strengthen and flex the hind legs to better prepare the thoroughbred to carry the rider's weight over his back. It will also cause the horse to reach long and low naturally. Then slowly start at the trot.

Longeing should be creative, not simply never-ending circles. Side reins and draw reins should never be used.

I am bringing this to your attention because of my past and present experience with the thoroughbred race horse.

What I have seen is that some horses are going way too fast and problems are presenting themselves. Many top professional riders can make these horses look good and make them do a particular task. Once they get into the amateurs' hands, it’s a different story. In the end, the horse has to want to do it.

If you address the thoroughbred physically, mentally, emotionally and intellectually, you will have a healthy, sound, long-lasting partnership with your wonderful thoroughbred. Rehabilitate before retraining. Get help from experienced trainers. Then, love and enjoy this magnificent creature. He will thank you in the end with his loyalty and big heart.

Help save off-the-track thoroughbreds. Support: Retired Racehorse Training Project and the Gulfstream Park Thoroughbred Aftercare Program by visiting www.retiredracehorsetraining.org and www.gpaftercare. com. You can also keep up with Juenger’s blog at www.foxmeadowtherapy.blogspot.com.

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Paso Fino Camp

open to youth and adults

Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photograph by BARBARA CHILDS

Regalo Farm in Hughes Creek Columbus is a 19-acre farm with three lovely paso fino horses that Glenda Wolfe rides and trains and offers to her camp students. The camp is open to students, youth and adults, now through August from 9 a.m.-noon during the week. There is a round pen for exercises and movements and the trails around the farm.

How did you begin to organize this paso fino camp, and what is the central focus of the riding camp for enjoying the paso fino horse breed?

I wanted to give children and adults the chance to ride a horse in a small, safe and affordable atmosphere. Many adults comment that they always wanted to ride as a child and never had the chance.

My paso finos are small and well trained, which makes for a nice ride and first-time experience riding. Some campers are nervous and only want to groom horse, and then we proceed to their comfort level. I keep the camps limited to six campers to be able to give individual attentions to each person. Private lessons are also available during the year.

How many horses do you have and what is their level of training and special skills?

I have two mares and one gelding. All have been professionally trained and shown. They all have a lot of trail experience since my farm has direct access to FETA and CETA trail systems. My gelding is a big fan of the hunter paces, where he can canter with his non-gaited equine friends. I have a small mare available for lease as she is a great trail horse. She was trained and ridden by paso fino trainers Pat and Cese Figueroa of Tuckaway Farm in Landrum.

Glenda Wolfe with her 7-year-old paso fino Sensitiva.

What kind of exercises and movements do you perform with the horses?

Paso finos have a four-beat lateral gait. I do exercises in my round pen that keep them supple and smooth in their movements.

Their training has enabled me to be very light with my hands in asking for the desired movements. I also enjoy working with obstacles that they may encounter on the trails since we spend a lot of time trail riding.

What is most enjoyable about having this paso fino Camp?

I am a former speech pathologist and special education teacher.

I find these camp experiences combine my love of teaching with my love for the paso fino horse and riding. I also get pleasure from providing a chance for a child or adult to ride who is not ready to commit to leasing or showing a horse.

What kinds of tack and saddles and equipment are utilized for the riding?

Most of my tack is made for the paso fino horse especially.

Paso finos are a small breed - 13.2 to 15 hands. Most tack is too large for them, while pony tack is too small. I prefer English tack but may use endurance and Western tack as well. My horses have been trained with Columbian spoon bits, which I find gives them the best collection for their gaits, but many horses perform better in more conventional bits or bitless bridles.

Regalo Farm is located in Hughes Creek Preserve off Little Mountain Road. Wolfe gives lessons for children and adults and she also boards horses. For more information, contact Wolfe by email at regalofarm@yahoo.com or visit www. regalofarm.weebly.com.

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Big Scoop Dudley.

Written by BARBARA CHILDS

in equine news

Dr. Jenny Susser will give a clinic on Aug. 3 and Aug. 5 at Cross Creek Farm in Green Creek. There will be a lecture each day, rides and interaction between rides. Auditors are welcome.

Issues concerning fears and improving one’s performance will be addressed. Contact cloverleajen@yahoo.com.

The Progressive Show Jumping series will be at Fence on Aug. 3-5. A photo contest is under way. The person who submits the oldest photo on Facebook will receive a free PSJ Show for one horse. Deadline is Aug. 1. Info needed: the date of the photo taken, location, photographer, horse/pony name and rider name. Send all to: psjshows@aol.com The Equestrian Exchange will hold its ninth annual Consignment Tack Sale on Aug. 30-Sept. 3 in Raleigh, N.C. at the Holshouser Building at the NC State Fairgrounds. This is a great way to sell and buy horse items and tack. You do not need to be present during the consignment sale to represent Darkwin and Carolyn West took the blues at intermediare your items to sell. Contact Lynn Beeson at 336-362-6248 or Tanya Wright at 540-977-1950 or sign up for the mailing list at level at the dressage show at Fence.

Annika Kramer is here from Michigan and she has brought equestrianexchange.com.

A Schooling Horse Trial will be held at Windridge Farm her five horses to Dark Horse Lane in Tryon. She also on Aug. 25. For more information, contact Laura Weicker, ofbrought a pony, Ragan, and a mini-donkey, Bubbi. Annika loves to event, ride the FETA trails, and she schools with Amy fice@trhcevents.org or 828-859-6109.

Dr. Adriene Otto, a member of the Equitarian group, Barrington in Tryon. is returning from Guatemala to give a presentation at the Lee Heelan with Pescado took the blue at the Harmon Harmon Field Log Cabin on Sept. 19 for the Foothills Riding Field Classic Show in the $2500 Palmetto Derby for the Club. Food and refreshments will start at 6:30 p.m.

SCHJA. I have just made a nice visit to the hen house for some nibJodi Lees and Weltmark had an awesome dressage showbling of pellets, and the barn manager has found the blasted ing at FENCE, with scores of 64 percent and 67 percent. The dressage community was in attendance cheering them on. Lees plastic bag in my droppings. He’s holding it up and smiling as if he has just plucked a rabbit out of a hat. said she felt humbled and so happy for all the support.

There’s a crime scene here in the barn outside my stall.

I am standing steady as a rock as a net of guilt covers me. I found a bag of carrots nearby and immediately started chomping them, plastic bag and all. The barn manager found the carrot crumbs but no bag. My barn mother looked upon me with concern.

“After 48 hours we may need to have him checked for surgery if he doesn’t pass the plastic bag,” she said.

Sacre bleu (French for oh, my gosh) - the death sentence, surgery. I will walk up to the gardens and upper pasture and drink water and nibble more grass and lettuce. I can hear my intestines rumbling and grumbling nicely, and I do not feel any discomfort, just full carrot bliss. In the meantime, here’s the big scoop on what’s in equine news.

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Pheel Refreshed Madeline likes this prize-winning recipe and would like you to whip up a batch of these beauties for your summer table: 3 pounds baby red potatoes quartered and cooked in 1/2-cup water 1/4 cup Zesty Italian dressing 1 tub of Philadelphia reduced fat Italian cheese and herb cooking crème 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 2 stalks celery, diced Place potatoes in large bowl, toss with dressing and refrigerate for 1 hour. Add remaining ingredients and mix.

Tim Thomas ALC,CRS,ABR,GRI - Talk to Tim: 828.817.1118

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This is the only kind of Real Estate agent who works totally for the buyer on any and all properties. There is no possibility of conflict of interest and the buyer’s interest is put first and foremost. It just makes sense! Find out more: timthomas.com/why-a-buyers-agent/

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WHY I LOVE THE FOOTHILLS

Mary Meyers:

A voice in the Foothills

Interview by GWEN RING Photograph submitted

Mary Meyers, a current resident of Tryon, made a living in music.

Her main instrument of choice, her voice. From 12 years-old, she knew signing and music was what she was meant to do. Having taught music in New Jersey for a number of years, at age 38 she tried our for New York City's Metropolitan Opera and made the cut. She sang there for 24 years.

She's brought her talent, knowledge, teachings and wonderful generosity with her here, to Polk County.

Top: Mary Meyers promotional headshot during her years at the Metropolitan Opera.

Bottom: Meyers, in costume during a production at the Met.

What brought you to the foothills area?

Originally Mary and her husband, Rob Linder, a member of the Met as well, had originally looked at the Asheville, N.C. area. Mary and Rob's son is a professor at Limestone College in Gaffney, S.C. and they wanted to be closer to him during their retirement.

In 2007, Mary drove with her son through the area and stopped in Tryon. Rob had always wanted a remote home for their retirement, where he could sing and make noise and no one could hear him.

Mary stopped in Foothills Realty, Myrna Viehman's real estate office, just to see what properties were available. Viehman knew Mary wasn't seriously looking at the time – she was just curious – but she told Mary she'd show her around anyway. Two hours later, Mary knew this was home. She didn't spend any more time looking anywhere else.

Rob and Mary decided to buy when Mary found a home online they couldn't refuse.

Where did you grow up?

Mary grew up the majority of her life in New Jersey.

What do you enjoy most about the foothills?

Mary and her husband Rob have been very involved within the music and theater community in this area. When they first moved What did you enjoy most about being apart of the here they assisted in a production of Broadway music performed Metropolitan Opera? at the Tryon Fine Arts Center to benefit Thermal Belt Outreach The best part of the opera was being so close with those also performing at the Met. Going through each other's marriages, births, Ministries. Mary has also opened up her home to teach singing lessons to children and adults. She is also involved within the bridge deaths and personal growths provided for lasting friendships. Mary community in Tryon, giving her the opportunity to meet and make a still keeps in touch with friends at the Met and some come to visit number of new friends. her in Tryon yearly.

What was the most challenging part about being a part of the Met? The long hours and days. With 25 productions a year and six weeks of preseason rehearsal, days would last Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. with a performance at 7:30 p.m.

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Do you have a favorite spot, restaurant or organization in Polk County, Landrum or the surrounding area?

Mary's favorite spot in the Foothills is her home, where she is surrounded by wonderful views, artwork, keepsakes, her husband and two dogs.

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