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December 2013

Greet the season Polk County's Mrs. Claus DECEMBER 2 0 1 3

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2 LIFEINO URFO O T HIL L S. C O M

Enjoy Independent Apartments, Rental Patio Homes, or Ownership Villas, Assisted Services at The Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing or Skilled Nursing and Rehab on our beautifully manicured 50 acre campus in the heart of Hendersonville.

Experience amenities that include fine dining, a pool, theatre, exercise room, billiards room, libraries, housekeeping and laundry services, 24 hour nursing services, and more.

True maintenance-free living!

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Publisher’s note

F

rom my first glimpse of Santa Claus as a little girl I have been in love with December. That big jolly man with a snowy white beard, dressed in red from head to toe, even had reindeer friends who could fly!

Santa also knew if I had been good or bad, or so my parents told me, and if I was good he would bring me a present; bad and I’d get a lump of coal. I didn’t question how he knew, for I believed as a child believes. Every Christmas morning, long before my parents were ready to rise, I’d jump out of bed and run to the tree to see what Santa had brought and I was never disappointed. I still smile to this day when I think of finding an Easy Bake Oven under the tree. I had dreamed of and longed for that oven for months. A desired treasure that was out of reach according to my parents, but not out of reach for Santa. Thank you Santa!

Every child should know that feeling of wonder and delight. Imagine waking up and finding that Santa didn’t come to your house? In Polk County the lovely Mrs. Eloise Thwing, the founder of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, has been Mrs. Claus to so many children and that tradition carries on today.

Are you searching for the perfect gift? Check out Carol Lynn Jackson’s article on page 45. From baskets of local food to local wines and crafts, there is something to please everyone. There are many more stories within these pages and we hope you enjoy this latest issue as much as we enjoyed working to bring it to you.

We invite you to pick up a copy each month as there is sure to be someone you know, a neighbor, family member, a friend or perhaps even you!

The magazine is available free of charge throughout the area and now delivered to your home as a Tryon Daily Bulletin subscriber. If you want it delivered to your home or office we offer subscriptions for $35 per year, just enough to cover the postage. To subscribe visit us at lifeinourfoothills.com or call us at 828.859.9151.

Betty Ramsey, Publisher

betty.ramsey@tryondailybulletin.com

on the cover The Nelson family of Polk County is quite the creative bunch. The Life in our Foothills staff couldn't help but highlight these incredibly unique family Christmas cards.

We also have a plethora of local artists who hand draw and paint meaningful and artistic cards you can send your loved ones.

COVER DESIGN: Kim Nelson & Samantha Hurst 4 LIFEINO URFO O THIL L S. C O M

PUBLISHER Betty Ramsey EDITORIAL Samantha Hurst Leah Justice CONTRIBUTORS Gillian Drummond Robin Edgar Kirk Gollwitzer Judy Heinrich Kiesa Kay Mark Schmerling Erik Olsen PRODUCTION Samantha Hurst David Walen MARKETING Harry Forsha Kevin Powell Lenette Sprouse ADMINISTRATION Jessy Taylor DISTRIBUTION Jeff Allison Jonathan Burrell Ethan Price

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 by calling 828-859-9151, ext. 101.

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

features the 24 Greeting Holidays

Gain inspiration from these personalized Christmas cards.

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Evening Shade Pottery

Visit Eva McCray's studio in Saluda and view her creations.

County's 34 Polk Mrs. Claus

Eloise Thwing started a tradition more than 20 years ago to ensure every kid gets something at Christmas.

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Holiday Wreaths

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Community & More

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Making a Splash

Learn tricks to making your own holiday decor for your front door or table.

Community and Christmas spirit can be found at Carolina Antiques & More.

Tryon Swim Club opened decades ago to allow residents a place to swim year round.

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27 64 APPOINTMENTS

14 IN EVERY ISSUE 8 Out & About

Check out the many holiday festivities.

10 Short Stories

Community Chorus or a Christmas parade, with any of these events you really can't go wrong

14 Foothills Featured

Boots & Bling or Poetry & Pose, check out these and other community events.

COLUMNS 42 Country Living

Create the warmth you long for this holiday season.

45 In Good Taste

You really can buy that foodie you love a basket full of local products.

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59 Equestrian events 60 Carolina Carriage Club

Carriage Club members go international and make marks locally.

64 The Little Horse that Could

Beauty survives neglect and maintains a gentle spirit that moves Connie Brown and new owners.

68 FENCE Open Show

From western to Friesians - see the variety that makes up our horse country.

70 Green Creek Hounds Halloween Hunter Pace

Green Creek Hounds members enjoy dressing up and riding through the hills.

72 Dudley updates

Let Dudley keep you in the loop.

Monthly Contributors Barbara Childs

Barbara Childs brings readers Dudley the Donkey each month. She has authored two children's books, "Sammy and the Cow Bird" and "Dear Bianca, Yours, Rudyard."

Child's horse Bagheera and she were National Champions of the USA in 1987. She also served on the Illinois Dressage and Combined Training Board of Directors.

Sutton is the horse she loves and rides today.

Gillian Drummond

Growing up and moving around the world taught Drummond three things; that change is positive, there are wonderful people everywhere and you can always create a home. She moved to Tryon in 2010 and opened her decorating business. She has been in the field for over 35 years. Her mission is to be your guide in creating a beautiful, comfortable haven.

Robin A. Edgar

Freelance journalist Robin A. Edgar writes for local, regional and national publications from her home near Lake Lanier in Tryon. She also conducts life writing workshops around the country based on her book, "In My Mother’s Kitchen: An Introduction to the Healing Power of Reminiscence."

Kirk Gollwitzer

Kirk Gollwitzer is a freelance writer frequently writing articles for Google News Service and other media organizations. After a successful career in business, Kirk found his true passion in telling a story through writing, photography and video. Kirk has a passion for music and major interest in sports. He is also writing a novel which will be adapted to a screenplay.

Judy Heinrich

Judy Heinrich is a freelance business writer serving national clients in diverse industries. She and her husband moved to Polk County from Texas in 2002, drawn by its beauty, climate and horse community. Judy has written numerous profiles for the Tryon Daily Bulletin and now enjoys writing about all things horse for Appointments.

Her equine pursuits are competitive trail and distance riding.

Erik Olsen

A native of Germany, Olsen began learning about photography at a very early age. Over the years, he worked in the TV news industry until making the decision to transform his expertise into a business. Today, he is blessed to follow his given passion and pursue what he loves for a living – filmmaking and photography. Winner of CNN's iReport award.

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Left: Community Chorus soloists from last year. This year the performance will be held December 15 at 3 p.m. at Polk County High School.

Below: Pictures with Santa at last year's Landrum Christmas parade.

CALENDAR DECEMBER December 1-21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tryon Painters and Sculptors Holiday Show opened Nov. 21 and will run through Dec. 21.

TPS Gallery, Tryon December 5, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

ICC Polk Center Holiday Open House ICC Polk Center Campus December 5, 6:30 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center Holidays Around the World Tryon Fine Arts Center December 5, 6:30 p.m.

One Woman's Appalachian Christmas Artist Marilyn McMinn McCredie presents program about Christmas in Appalachia.

Polk County Public Library December 5, 5 p.m.

Landrum Area Business Association/Landrum Fire Department Christmas Parade Landrum December 6, 5 - 8 p.m.

Tryon Downtown Development Association (TDDA) Tryon Christmas Stroll Downtown Tryon

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December 6, 5-8 p.m.

Opening reception for Wonderland Holiday The Holiday Bazaar, a Tryon tradition since 1994, has uniquely crafted art pieces in a variety of mediums and price ranges.

Upstairs Artspace December 7-8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Fifth annual tree and wreath sale Polk High School football stadium

ing Chris Tinkler as Crumpet.

Sunnydale

Trash Pick Up Town Lot by IGA

December 11, 7 p.m., Choral Evensong for the Season of Advent Holy Cross Episcopal Church

December 14, 5-7 p.m.

Tryon United Methodist will have a Living Nativity Tryon United Methodist Church

December 13, 3 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center Holidays Around the World - Bright Star Theater Tryon Fine Arts Center

December 15, 11 a.m.

Midway Baptist Church’s children’s choir presents “The Mystery of the Manger” Midway Baptist Church

December 13, 5-8 p.m.

December 15, 5-8 p.m.

St. Luke’s Opening of New Patient NC Small Town Main Street Wing for major donors Saluda Christmas Celebration December 7, 1:30 p.m. and physicians The Orchard Inn, Saluda Tuba Christmas Don’t miss this yearly musical feast. St. Luke’s Hospital December 15, 3 p.m.

Polk High School December 14, 3 p.m.

Community Chorus Saluda Christmas Parade Community Chorus to perform at December 8, TBA Downtown Saluda Polk High School Pacolet Area Conservancy PAC Annual Christmas Holiday Party December 14, 9 a.m.

December 21, 5 p.m.

Bessie Jackson House Holy Cross sponsors Race to the Pastyme Christmas Concert Head of the Class 5K, 10K and Holy Cross Episcopal Church December 8, 3 p.m.

1K races Tryon Fine Arts Center Holidays Holy Cross Episcopal Church December 22, 3 p.m.

Around the World - Bright Star Christmas Jazz with John Moody Theater December 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Landrum Presbyterian Church Tryon Fine Arts Center Pacolet Area Conservancy December 8, 3 p.m.

Landrum Presbyterian Church presents the Chamber Singers First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg Life in our Foothills publishes the last Thursday of each month.

Landrum Presbyterian Church The deadline to submit content for the consideration of staff is the 1st December 8, 7 p.m. of each month for the following month’s magazine.

Upstairs Artspace presents The staff of Life in our Foothills has the right to edit any and all David Sedaris “Santaland” featurcontent before inclusion in the publication. Please send your items to samantha.hurst@tryondailybulletin.com.

Deadlines

Left: Tryon United Methodist Church's annual nativity.

Middle: Tryon Arts and Craft School's gift show is open. Right: Tryon Christmas parade.

December 24, 7 p.m.

Columbus Presbyterian Church will hold a Christmas Eve Communion service Columbus Presbyterian Church December 31, 10 p.m.

TDDA Tryon's Early New Year's Eve

Tryon Clock Tower January 5, 5 p.m.

Concordiae: Singers of Ecclesiastical Music, Concert Holy Cross Episcopal Church

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! To you and yours this holiday season. - From the Tryon Daily Bulletin Staff

Are you ready for your next step?

e nc or a h f t C tion s L a t ra 0 1 4 gis g 2 6!

Re p r i n S .3 n Ja

828-286-3636 www.isothermal.edu DECEMBER 2 0 1 3

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Polk County TubaChristmas December 7 @ 3 p.m.

Last year the stage shone with 70 members of the brass instrument family – tubas, euphoniums, baritone horns, as well as some strange looking cousins.

The first TubaChristmas in Polk County was held in 1998 with 39 participants.

It was to be held in front of the Polk County Courthouse, but rain intervened and it was moved to the Stearns Auditorium where the conductor stood on a table to lead the concert. Since that time the concerts have been held in the Polk County High School Auditorium.

Landrum Christmas Parade The Landrum Christmas Parade takes place on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.

The route begins on North Trade Avenue at The Depot and winds through town to Landrum Middle School.

Santa will arrive riding high on the ladder of a fire truck, then return to the Landrum Fire Station to visit with kids and pose for photos. Refreshments will be served. The parade is sponsored by the Landrum Fire Department and the Landrum Area Business Association.

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Participants have come from both Carolinas, Tennessee, Georgia and several other states, with players ranging in age from 11 to 87 years and occasionally older.

Again this year, a student from Western Carolina University’s music department will perform the carol, “O Holy Night.”

Dr. Mike Shallock, a tuba specialist from WCU, conducts an annual contest to determine the soloist.

The TubaChristmas concert this year will be held on Dec. 7 at 1:30 p.m., at Polk County High School. All seats are free. Come and start the month on the right note.

Wonderland Holiday Bazaar offers artists, gifts and an auction The Upstairs Artspace gallery has announced the opening of its Wonderland Holiday Bazaar, with an opening reception at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 at 5-8 p.m. during the Tryon Christmas Stroll.

The Holiday Bazaar, a Tryon tradition since 1994, is known for outdoing itself each year with uniquely crafted art pieces in a variety of mediums and price ranges. It is a major fundraiser for the non-profit gallery and a destination for the discriminating shopper.

“It gets better every year,” said Upstairs board member and Wonderland organizer, Mary Prioleau. “We have attracted artists from a larger region than ever before, including Highlands and Matthews as well as Asheville, Greenville and Tryon, and they have created stunning and original pieces in all price ranges.”

In addition to jewelry, pottery and hand-loomed textiles, there are turned wooden bowls and serving utensils, dolls, art glass and more according to Prioleau.

“It is the place to begin and end your holiday shopping, the one place you can be guaranteed to find those special uniquely creative gifts for everyone on your list.”

The Wonderland Holiday Bazaar will be open during regular gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and during the bazaar on Sundays from 1-4 p.m.

It will close at 4 p.m. on Dec. 24.

For more information, call the gallery at 828-859-2828, or visit the gallery’s website, www.upstairsartspace.org. The gallery is located at 49 S. Trade Street, Tryon.

TDDA 2013

Ornament Auction The Tryon Downtown Development Association (TDDA) proudly hosts its annual ornament auction this 2013 Christmas season. Last year’s auction raised $800, all of which was put towards the Tryon Gallery Trot’s budget for what turned out to be a very successful “Second Saturday” season.

The auction will open on the evening of the TDDA sponsored Christmas stroll on Friday, Dec. 6 from 5-8 p.m. at Upstairs Artspace. It will conclude with last minute bids and a light reception on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 5-7 p.m. with bidding ending at 6 p.m.

Ornaments should be signed, ready to hang and dropped off at Upstairs Artspace 49 S. Trade St. in downtown Tryon by Dec. 4. They will be hung in the front window on a Christmas tree for optimal viewing. Prizes will be awarded to artists in three categories; highest money brought in by one ornament, hottest bid activity and most creative ornament.

For more information, contact Mary Wells Prioleau at 828-899-9699 or marywprioleau@yahoo.com.

Tryon Christmas Stroll & Parade The Tryon Downtown Development Association will host its annual Christmas Stroll Dec. 6 from 5-8 p.m. The event encourages residents to get out and see their neighbors, meet Santa, drink hot chocolate and mark items off their Christmas shopping lists by buying local.

The Town of Tryon's annual Christmas Parade takes place on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5 p. m.

Organized by the Tryon Fire Department, organizations, businesses and even individuals are encouraged to participate.

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Saluda Christmas at Orchard Inn The NC Small Town Main Street Promotions Team is pleased to announce the Saluda Christmas Celebration on Sunday, Dec. 15, from 5-8 p.m., hosted by the Orchard Inn in Saluda.

The elegant warmth, Christmas decorations and hospitality of the inn will create the perfect setting to spark your holiday cheer.

Tickets can be purchased by calling Terry Baisden at 828749-3789 or emailing terrybaisden@tds.net. You may also pick up tickets at Thompson’s Store/Ward’s Grill or Cathy Jackson Realty on Main Street in Saluda.

The per person ticket includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, two free tickets for beer and wine, sweet tea, apple cider and hot chocolate. A cash bar is also available. There will be a drawing of tickets for door prizes, which will include paintings from Bill Jameson and Ray Pague.

Blues pianist, Fred Whiskin, will play for guests.

Free parking and shuttle service to The Orchard Inn, provided by Tim and Sara Bell of Green River Adventures, will be from the Tickle Family Health Center & Spa located at 438 East US Hwy. 176. Only people with physical disabilities or who need assistance will be permitted to park at the inn.

The Orchard Inn is located at 100 Orchard Inn Lane, Saluda, N.C. 28773. For more information, call 1-800-5813800 or visit orchardinn.com.

The Orchard Inn

Originally built in 1926 and called the Mountain Home of Southern Railway Clerks, the Inn sits on 12 acres, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a member of the distinguished Select Registry and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Trip Advisor - 2012 & 2013 Certificate of Excellence, and Restaurant.com - 2012 Top Rated Restaurant.

Formal attire appropriate, but is not required.

For questions, please contact Terry Baisden at 828-7493789 or email terrybaisden@tds.net.

Tryon Painters and Sculptors Holiday Show The Tryon Painters and Sculptors Holiday Show will be open until Dec. 21 for shoppers and art lovers to peruse handmade gift items.

There is a wide selection to choose from: scarves; ornaments; children and baby shirts; holiday cards; jewelry; paintings and sculptures and much more.

The organization has a new artist, Joan Rhoads who works in felt. Her containers of cacti are wonders unto themselves as well as her containers and felt wall hangings.

TPS is located at 26 Maple Street, Tryon, NC. Winter hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. TPS can be reached at 828-859-0141.

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One Woman's Appalachian Christmas

Handmade Christmas Columbus will hold a Handmade Christmas event featuring local artists and the variety of Christmas decor and gifts they make with their own hands.

The craft fair will be held Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 at the Columbus Courthouse and Dec. 14 at Stearns Park from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. all days.

During the three days you can find a gift your family can truly say few other people will receive. In fact they may have their own one-of-a-kind beaded necklace or felted hat.

Shop for jams, jellies, woodwork, paper goods such as greeting cards, ceramic gifts, felted items, metal art, handmade jewelry and more.

This event is sponsored by the Town of Columbus and the Polk County Artists and Craftsman Guild.

“One Woman’s Appalachian Christmas” an entertaining program, featuring local artist, Marilyn McMinn McCredie, will be presented at the community room of the Polk County Public Library on Dec. 5 at 6:15 p.m.

She is the recipient of the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Festival Award for her significant contribution to the folk, musical and/ or dance traditions of the southern mountain region.

She won the “Special Entertainer’s Award” at the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival in Asheville and has performed at numerous folk and arts festivals for many years.

She has taught courses in mountain historical facts, folklore, music and culture at Blue Ridge Technical College.

She particularly enjoys teaching the mountain dulcimer to international students.

McCredie was born in Hooper’s Creek, Henderson County, N.C. where her family has lived for generations.

She grew up “steeped in Appalachian folkways and tradition;” her storytelling material includes ghost stories, Indian legends, tall tales and how things happened years ago.

Tinkler returns as Crumpet the Elf in Sedaris’ “Santaland Diaries” Tryon’s own Chris Tinkler will bring back a holiday favorite this year when he performs David Sedaris’ Christmas spoof “Santaland Diaries” at a Dec. 8 benefit for the Upstairs Artspace.

In this irreverent holiday classic, Sedaris recounts his misadventures as a disenchanted and jaded Macy’s department store elf.

Tinkler has brought the uproarious one-man play to town several times before, most recently in another fund-

raiser for the Upstairs Artspace two years ago.

“Santaland Diaries” was adapted by Joe Mantello from Sedaris’ reading of his holiday essay, which has been an NPR holiday favorite for years.

Seating is limited and tickets go on sale Tuesday, Nov. 26, and can be purchased by visiting or phoning the Upstairs Artspace at 49 South Trade St., Tryon, 828-859-2828. All proceeds benefit the continued fine arts programming of the Upstairs Artspace.

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Foothills Music Club gala concert wows On a gorgeous Sunday afternoon in October, the Foothills Music Club, Inc. celebrated the highlight of its 25th anniversary year by presenting a fabulous concert at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. Everyone in the filled house agreed that the Gala Concert was one of the best performances they had ever heard!

Primary to the success was the variety of performers and music programmed for the concert. The audience was treated to music by Brahms, Chopin, Joplin, Bartók, Prokofieff, Gershwin, and others – something for every musical palate. The musicians performed on many instruments including guitar, piano, voice, bassoon, flute and cello.

Members of the Foothills Music Club performed German lieder, piano solos, Italian arias, vibrant guitar pieces, familiar melodies from classical literature, and even ragtime! Some of the easily recognized music included the Flower Duet from Lakme’, Summertime from Porgy and Bess, The Swan from Carnival of the Animals, and Humoresque.

The finale featured concert pianist Elizabeth Child who performed the Toccata in D Major, by Johann Sebastian Bach and Barcarolle in F# Major, by Frédéric Chopin. Dr. Child was gracious in contributing her performance, and all proceeds from the Gala Concert benefit the Foothills Music Club Young Musicians Scholarship Program.

All the musicians dazzled the concert-goers that afternoon, but the stars who shone brightest were the three scholarship award recipients. Soprano Kate Riedy sang Voi che sapete from Le Nozze di Figaro and Vilia from The Merry Widow with beautiful clarity of tone, lovely interpretation, and wonderful stage presence.

Paulina Ray-Zorick performed two difficult and technically demanding piano pieces: an Intermezzo by Brahms and Étude in C minor by Chopin. Baritone Tyler Graeper wowed the house with his ability to deliver the words and music. His performance of Caro mio ben, Bring Him Home from Les Miserables, and I’ve Heard it All Before from Shenandoah captivated the audience.

The Foothills Music Club Inc. was founded in 1988

by Lesley Oakes. In 1994, the club inaugurated its scholarship program, and to date nearly $40,000 has been awarded to talented young musicians. In 2013, the Foothills Music Club, Inc. achieved its designation as a 501(c) (3) organization; all gifts are tax-deductible as allowed by the IRS. – article submitted by Ellen Harvey Zipf 14 LIFEI NO URFO O T HIL L S. C O M

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Foothills music gala concert

St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation held its eighth annual Ache Around the Lake. This year the event supported the Activities of Daily Living Lab at St. Luke’s Hospital.

1. Jeanette Shackelford, Karen Molner, Carol Bartol.

2. Chris Bartol, Karen Killough, Krysti Hamlin, and Janet Joens.

3. Bruce Fritz, Jeannette Shackelford and Elaine Jenkins.

4. Lesley Oakes and Mimi Child Trexler 5. Kate Riedy, Paulina Ray-Zorick, Elizabeth Child and Tyler Graeper.

6. Ellen Harvey Zipf and Ann Harvey Morgan

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catering.

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Landrum Depot reopening

Landrum city leaders held a celebration 4 Saturday, Nov. 16 marking the reopening of the Landrum Depot after a year of renovations. The brass section of the Landrum High School band played as community members and city leaders toured the renovated building.

Inside the building are cases with a number of artifacts found during the renovation process.

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1. Ashanti Simmons.

2. Bill Steward, in conductor's uniform, and his wife, Barbara Steward, far left, with Landrum City Administrator Caitlin Martin.

3. Ken Brackett and Pat Chesnutt.

4. Representative Brannon and his wife, Tracey Brannon.

5. Deb Bradner and Barbara Cameron-Decker.

6. Jack Stone.

7. Kati and Tom Phelps.

8. Felipe Bravo, Jennifer Fortenberry, Dixie Fortenberry and Jennifer Long.

9. Danny Owens, Sharon Owens, Dale Cuthbert, Steve and Dina Wolochowicz.

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Green River Farm Day 2013 Green River Farm Day gives residents of the area a chance to reconnect with the land, animals and the area's heritage.

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1. Bobby Christopher and Brian Price.

2. Charlie Chov, Patti Marlowe, Taylor Simmons, Laney Simmons and Hannah Marlowe.

3. Paula, Eddie and Samuel Simmon.

4. Liam Rhymer and Grace Allison.

5. Sonya and Brian Price.

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You’ll feel the difference at Tryon Estates.

You might be surprised to find the retirement lifestyle you’ve been looking for is already in your community, at Tryon Estates. Nestled in the foothills in Columbus, we’re a community that keeps you close to everything you love about this area.

We’re an ACTS Retirement-Life Community, built on proven financial stability and a faith-based mission to provide security and peace of mind through ACTS Life Care™. Visit us online or call us at 828.414.8913 to schedule your tour of Tryon Estates.

Tryon Estates An ACTS Retirement-Life Community

ACTStryon.org 617 Laurel Lake Drive • Columbus, NC • 828.414.8913 ACTS Retirement-Life Communities® is celebrating more than 40 years of strength as the leader in service to seniors.

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Foothills Chamber Shuckin and Shaggin

The Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce held its annual Shuckin' and Shaggin' event earlier this fall.The events helps fund a variety of community projects for the chamber.

1. Candice Broline and Diane Wilson.

2. Nicola Barksdale and Selena Coffey.

3. Ann Marie Calloway and Shanna Chambers.

4. John and Kathy Toomey.

5. Robert and Tricia Kennedy.

6. Karen Underwood and Connie Lomax.

7. Joey Underwood and Lee Lomax.

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AAUW’s Porcelain, Poetry and Prose AAUW’s Porcelain, Poetry and Prose Tea was held at Sunnydale in Tryon in October.

1. Kitty Kessler, Jill Haysom and Mary Jo Myers 2. Peggy Woodward, Virginia Clark and Sarah Potter 3. Nancy McGarra, Becky Collins, Pat Patrick and Esther Taylor 4. Honor Callaway, Jean Shumway, Shirley Elliot

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Come see us for all your Holiday needs!

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Boots & Bling

Boots & Bling – Stompin’ with the Stars sparkled with celebrities who gathered to raise money for Hospice House of the Carolina Foothills. Held at The Lodge at Lake Bowen Commons, guests danced with western stars while the band, Funktion, played. The Hare & Hound catered a delicious meal. (photos submitted by Marsha VanHecke).

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1. Becky Collins as Marilyn Monroe 2. Charlotte & John (Clark Gable) Kean 3. Joe & Denise Boals 4. The new venue for Boots & Bling: The Lodge at Lake Bowen Commons 5. Ann & Jim Troppmann; Susan and Bob Penfold.

6. Linda and Andy Haynes 7. Shauna and Mark Williams with Tonto 8. Palma and Jack Davis (Miss Kitty & Matt Dillon)

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Broadway’s Next Hit Musical Tryon Fine Arts Center patrons enjoyed a roaring good time as they watched the antics of the improve theater group performing Broadway’s Next Hit Musical. (photos submitted by Marianne Carruth) 1. Bill Crowell and Kathleen Carson.

2. Tij D'Oyen and Katelyn Duncan.

3. John and Cathy Calur.

4. The Nager family.

5. Kevin and Jill Brode.

6. Susan Leonard and Andy Millard.

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St. Luke's volunteer luncheon

St. Luke’s Hospital recently held its annual volunteers luncheon celebrating those individuals who devote their time to helping the hospital provide quality care. (photos submitted by Kathy Woodham)

1. Chaplain Bob Lair, Clyde Plumley, Mary Ann Plumley and Elfreide Engels.

2. Marianne and Leo Tarpley.

3. Jerri Cegielski, Janet Cannon and Jeane Helms.

4. Lucy Mauney, Clark Benson and Barbara Johnson.

5. Liz Beam and Connie Smith.

6. Diane McEntee and Frank Walker.

7. Juli Fike and Wendy Field.

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9. New officers - Marcy Mack, secretary; Virginia Clark, treasurer; Juli Fike, president; and Jim Rhaney, vice-president.

10. Evelyn Bradley and Howard Greene.

11. Wendy Field, outgoing president of auxiliary, and Ruth Cantrell.

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An Authorized Agency for

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Greeting

the holidays Written by KIESA KAY Art provided by GRACE LERTORA. KIM NELSON & KIM ATTWOOLL When Kim and Rich Nelson had their first child, he looked so sweet that they wreathed him in feathers and sent the photo of their little angel to everyone they knew. They didn’t know then that they had started a family tradition of popular personalized holiday cards.

“I feel it’s important to show our family and friends how our children have grown,” Kim Nelson said. “My husband’s a portrait photographer and I’m a graphic artist, and it’s become a real source of creative expression for me.”

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Main: Grace Lertora designed this beautiful "Forest of Trees" Christmas themed greeting card. Lertora offers a number of holiday and winter-themed cards. Right: One of the Nelson family's many greeting cards that take creativity to a new level. (image submitted by Kim Nelson)

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Left: One of the Nelson's most popular greeting cards includes each family member dressed from head to toe in white and posing in a different position to make up the snowflake design. (image submitted by Kim Nelson)

The cards now depict the couple with their three children, Luke, Lily and Sam, and sometimes show their dog, Ozzie, and their new Chihuahua. One shows the family posed exactly like the characters in Rich Nelson’s favorite holiday movie, "It’s a Wonderful Life."

“We often have a couch session and thumbnails, and take time to decide our themes, but I hadn’t had time that year, and it was the middle of December,” Kim Nelson said. “I thought up the idea, we made the photo, I made the card, and then had them printed up and in the mail in 24 hours.”

As their family grew, the themes became more elaborate.

In 2010, she searched for white pants for her 12-year-old son and coaxed her husband into an all-white get-up for their snowflake card, which has been the most popular one so far.

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“We have 600 people on our Christmas card list now,” she said. “People start asking us what our theme for the next year will be as soon as they get their cards, and many tell us that they keep our cards on their refrigerators all year long.”

The cards also reinforced Kim Nelson’s growth in graphic design. She now has started offering graphic design services, such as the one for the barbecue festival’s 20th year anniversary. Her family’s cards can be seen at www. skyukafineart.com on the Nelson Family tab under "present artists."

Personalized cards can make a special gift for family and friends during the season that’s cherished all year long, said Kim Attwooll, a local artist whose cards are featured in 150 galleries across the country. Attwooll creates enhanced prints with gold and silver edging, and she can

add personalized messages for a nominal fee.

“The first pleasure is in creating it,” Attwooll said. “The second lies in personalizing it. The ultimate pleasure is in receiving it.”

Her cards are featured at www.kimattwooll.com. Her hand-printed greeting cards on acid-free paper begin as paintings, which she stylizes for holiday appeal. Her cards are also sold at Vines & Stuff in Tryon.

Local artist Grace Lertora draws inspiration from the mountains and woods of Polk County for her holiday cards.

“I love the linear feel of trees,” Lertora said. “The shifting colors and textures in this area really inspire my work as an artist. Big card companies don’t do local settings, and they stick to general themes. My cards use the light, images, and patterns of this place, and the joy that I see in the colors here.”

Lertora frequently stands in the center of the scenes that she paints, soaking in the filtered sunlight as she paints en pleine air. Her family also has been a strong influence on her work.

“Since I’m a grandma with seven grandchildren, I have done cards that feature angels,” she said.

Lertora’s work can be found at Tryon Painters and Sculptors in Tryon. The gallery features many works by local artists that can add that Tryon touch and Polk County personalization to the holidays.

Visit us online at

Above and right: Images from the hand drawn holiday cards created by Kim Attwooll. See more examples at www.kimattwooll.com.

Stocking Stuffers from TRYON FINE ARTS CENTER

www.tryondailybulletin.com

2013 Morris Ornament

Designed this year by Kathleen Carson, this product of the Charleston Mint has been a collector’s item since 1991. Some previous years are also available. $18

Chocolate: A Fine Art

Support the Arts and give the gift of gourmet chocolate from Peterbrooke Chocolatier: Come into the lobby December 5-8 to purchase our exclusive holiday treat.

2014 Show Tickets

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Chase Away the Blues

VIP - $75; General Admission $25

SUNDAY, MARCH 9 Caladh Nua $28 FRIDAY, MARCH 28 Catherine Russell $28 FRIDAY, MAY AAY 9 Sutton, Holt & Coleman $28 A HOLIDAY AY DELIGHT FOR THE WHOLE FA FAMILY:

Bright Star Touring Theater’s Holidays from Around the World specially priced for families — Sunday, December 8 at 3 pm.

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pottery

Evening Shade Written and photographed by MARK SCHMERLING

Watching Eva McCray use her hands and her concentration to turn a round and somewhat flat piece of clay almost suddenly into a bowl on her potter’s wheel, is to witness a form of magic.

As the bowl rose on her wheel, McCray stated, “That’s what got me hooked – magic.”

McCray, owner of Evening Shade Pottery, at 38 Church Street, Saluda, said, “I’ve been doing what I’ve been doing for almost 20 years.”

McCray’s shop is known by many as a place to purchase her handmade, photograph-inspired caricature mugs, ( a sign inside reads, “Let me put your mug on my mug!”), but a quick glance at the displays reveals an abundance of fine pottery. Bowls, plates and other pieces are all hand-crafted by McCray.

A northwest Pennsylvania native, who moved her shop to Saluda four years ago, McCray’s “hallelujah” moment came after she took a pottery-making class.

“I just loved it,” she recalled.

She told the instructor (who had a commercial pottery business), that if she had an opening to throw pottery, “‘let me know, and I’ll quit my job and do that.’”

Seven months later, the instructor contacted McCray and offered her a position. McCray left her job and worked in production pottery, making mugs, plates, bowls, “everything.”

Left: Eva McCray sits at the wheel in her Saluda pottery studio, working her fingers around the beginnings of a clay mug. Top: Inside Evening Shade Pottery or E.S.P. those who love pottery can find beautiful earthy bowls and vases, as well as smile-inducing animal faces that protrude from the wall and true mugs of individuals who have crossed McCray's path.

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Eventually tiring of the production schedule, McCray went back to her old job, but continued crafting her own pottery at night.

“That’s how I got the name,” she said. “‘Evening Shade.’”

Her previous experience taught her everything, “except it was just pottery, not sculpting. I taught myself that.”

At that time, she lived in western New York state, where she had a shop in her home. She also sold her pieces at a farm and craft market on Saturdays.

What aspect of pottery making does McCray enjoy most?

“I like it all,” she replied. “It’s more mechanical when you’re throwing.”

Handcrafting these pieces takes time, McCray notes. “People need to realize it takes so long to make (the pieces).” She pointed out that orders for Christmas must be placed by October.

Credit McCray’s son for the idea to craft mugs from photographs. Her first piece was of Jerry Garcia. McCray contacted the Jerry Garcia memorial website, to market her pieces, but they already had some from other sources.

For this work, McCray prefers making faces of men (“Women are too fussy,” she notes). She also said that character lines are easy to reproduce, but that women generally don’t like to see theirs reproduced.

“These pieces are already caricatures,” McCray said, mostly based on husbands, fathers and sons. In this realm, McCray is much like an editorial cartoonist working in three dimensions.

“That’s my best-selling mug,” said McCray, pointing to a particularly unique design sitting on a shelf.

The idea stemmed from an onlooker at a craft show who, after viewing the large variety of Evening Shade’s mugs, remarked, “‘I’ll bet you don’t have one of someone picking his nose.’”

Right: These laughing faces jump off the wall to create visitors to McCray's Evening Shade Pottery.

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She does now!

From concept to finished product, McCray’s mug-making is about a six-week process. As she doesn’t like running her kiln without a full load.

McCray also produces mugs wholesale for coffee shops, one of which orders about 20 per month.

In a typical year, McCray uses about 3,000 pounds of clay.

Evening Shade Pottery made its Saluda debut on Ozone Drive, then moved into the alley, just east of Thompson’s Store. In June 2012, McCray moved a short distance to the present location, just off Church Street, about 50 yards from Main Street.

After moving tables, benches and her equipment, McCray sought 50 volunteers to move her wares. Forty-eight individuals volunteered to be part of a brigade to carefully pass along pottery from the old location to the new one, a few feet at a time.

“It was fun,” recalled McCray, who presented each helper with T-shirt labeled “I Passed the Pots.”

All pottery at Evening Shade is hand-painted and wheel-turned, so each piece is unique. Finished stoneware is dishwasher and microwavesafe.

Evening Shade’s clientele is both local and visitors from nearby states.

A couple who ventured into the store recently is originally from Germany.

Evening Shade Pottery (828 749 3249, www.eveningshadepottery. com) is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, said McCray, are “hit or miss.” Evening Shade Pottery is closed in January and February, but McCray makes pots at home during that time.

She also gives lessons – one per week for eight weeks, “so someone can learn the whole process.”

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Eva McCray carries a wide assortment of pottery in her Saluda shop. If the caricature mugs aren't your style, she has more traditional pieces in beautiful blues, burnt oranges and browns.

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Polk County's

Mrs.Claus Twenty-two years ago a woman, with a heart full of compassion, created an organization that would warm homes and hearts across Polk County.

Today, dedicated staff and volunteers of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry work to carry on that legacy.

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Written by KIESA KAY Photographed by SAMANTHA HURST Moonlight gleams beneath a soft velvet cover of clouds, casting an ethereal glow across the mountains.

The trees have lost their leaves, and their branches resemble dark gray lace as dusk disappears into night.

Winter has begun in Polk County, with all its elegant beauty. The cold wind casts a shiver on the skin and some families begin to go hungry as they contemplate heating their homes to survive the winter.

“People can live without air conditioning, but you can’t live without heat,” said Michelle Reedy, client services manager for Thermal Belt Outreach. “And people want to celebrate the holidays, but to celebrate often costs money. Help from Thermal Belt can prevent tough choices. People shouldn’t have to decide if they want to celebrate like the rest of the world or pay the rent and utility bills. We try to prevent anyone from having to make that choice.”

Even when money and jobs and housing disappear, something special lingers in Polk County, a certain kind of beauty and the essence of hope. Thermal Belt Outreach opened in 1991 under the direction of Eloise Thwing, 93 years old now, and it has grown to 181 active volunteers.

“They don’t forget that when they needed something, she (Eloise) helped with compassion.”

- ANN CARSWELL

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Top left: Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry staff, board members and volunteers prepare and pass out gifts to families in need last year. (photos submitted)

“Even now we have people love on Eloise’s neck in the streets,” said Ann Carswell, who worked for Thermal Belt Outreach for nine years. “They don’t forget that when they needed something, she helped with compassion. There’s a lot of satisfaction to helping people, so those people can turn around and help others, too. We like to see their faces light up.”

When someone receives help and lights up, they can begin to shine their own light on others, and many people who might need financial support still give other people deep support in other ways, Thwing said.

In addition, when they get their bearings, they sometimes become volunteers.

People without money to pay their utility bills still want to be able to string their holiday lights, Reedy said. Without money to pay for food, they still want to serve a delicious holiday meal to their families. Most of all, she said, parents struggling to pay rent still want presents for their children.

“Sometimes people are very judgmental, and you have to keep in mind that everybody works, but not everybody gets the same rewards for their work,” Reedy said. “People need rewards. We all need something to keep us going. Rewards stimulate that desire to keep going forward. It’s especially hard when you have children in the home and money problems mean you have to withhold participation from celebration. I am so thankful that our community makes it possible for people to celebrate the holidays.”

Families began signing up for holiday giving on Sept. 23, 36 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

and as many as 36 people a day apply for Thanksgiving food vouchers and Christmas gifts. They will receive their gifts from the community at the 4-H Center on Locust Street in Columbus on Dec. 13. For Reedy, that day can feel like the happiest day of the year.

“I love our holiday giving, because I get to see the faces of people who come in here,” Reedy said. “It’s a day of happiness. For one day, people can forget all their burdens.

Everyone feels on equal ground, and we can talk and hug and laugh, and not focus on problems.”

Santa Claus shows up in his red velvet suit, giving candy and smiles to all there. Volunteers and staff distribute the gifts in black bags, and special care has been taken to ensure that every family’s children will have gifts.

“We celebrate and have a good time, and it’s wonderful,” she said. “We also have Golden Seniors giving, and one lady told us she takes her gift and puts it under her tree, and opens it when she gets up Christmas morning. She loves opening her gift from the community, too.”

In Polk County, 25 percent of the children live beneath the poverty line, and many people have lost their jobs.

Even with work, it can be a struggle to make ends meet.

Each person matters when they walk through the doors of Thermal Belt Outreach, Reedy said, and it’s the caring that makes the difference, as individual needs get matched up to existing resources. In the Angel Tree program, community members can purchase gifts to go to children ages zero to 13 and adults over age 60. The community also has a toy

run, with the sheriff ’s office, Steps to Hope, and Polk County Department of Social Services (DSS).

“I work to make sure that no one sibling looks more loved than another, and I make sure every brother and sister will get equal distribution,” Reedy said.

Reedy also has heard from many people how much the services mean to their everyday lives. The center maintains strict confidentiality so she did not share about specific situations, but many people have said that if it wasn’t for the holiday program, their families would not be able to celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas at all.

“I prefer working for a nonprofit,” she said. “If somebody comes here hungry, we don’t have to turn them away because some manual says that a card needs to be processed. I want to come closer and really help people, so this is exactly where I need to be. It isn’t often that people are given the opportunity to do what they feel most called to do, and I have Eloise Thwing to thank for my opportunity to start here.”

The Board of Directors of Thermal Belt Outreach, located at 134 White Drive in Columbus, dedicated the campus to Eloise Thwing in November 2013 in respect for her 20 years of service as executive director there.

“When we first began in 1991, we knew people in town really needed some help but we didn’t know yet how to help,” Thwing said. “We made it up as we went along. Church Women United did a five-year study and we set up that first office. The longer we worked, the more we could see that the work was needed here. We saw the need and went to work.”

In 2012, the organization had 3,090 requests from the

food pantry, and 536 families received crisis assistance with rent, fuel, and utilities. They prepared 12,514 Feed A Kid food packs and helped 108 people with medical and dental needs.

“Once we got going, we really grew fast,” Thwing said.

“Most of it touched my heart from the very beginning. Some children in our county are going to bed at night with just a cracker.”

Thwing, Reedy and Carswell agreed that they saw a lot of courage in the families who receive support from Thermal Belt Outreach, particularly families working to make ends meet who want their children to have gifts for the holidays.

“Asking for help is so hard,” Reedy said. “It is very hard to make that step across the threshold and let someone know you need help.”

The volunteers and staff also get strong happiness from knowing that their time and work can make a difference to people’s lives. Thermal Belt Outreach, open year-round, has a commitment to making those cold winter nights a little warmer, turning the dark gray fog of worry into the softly gleaming silver shade of hope.

“We never give money. We give food from the pantry, vouchers, assistance,” Thwing said. “There never has been any charge. Thermal Belt Outreach will continue to grow as long as people need help. We do the best we can do to help people live their lives.”

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

Holiday wreaths Tips & Tricks From Expert Erin Thompson of Thompson Garden Gallery.

Erin and Corey Thompson’s business, Thompson Garden Gallery, is rooted in Christmas trees and holiday wreaths.

Fifteen years ago, the two started out by gathering freshly cut Christmas trees from growers here in the mountains of western North Carolina and trekking to Charleston to sell them. They would also design wreaths by order. Now the Thompsons stay quite busy with a full-time landscaping busi-

ness and their garden art gallery in Tryon. Erin Thompson has a knack for pulling together what nature gives her and turning it into uniquely beautiful wreaths.

“I want to encourage you to use things in your backyard. With a bit of creativity and a little thinking out of the norm, you can put something together quickly that people coming to your home for the holidays will just love,” Erin said.

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Stop and look around

Some of the wreaths I have gotten the most compliments on have been from things I’ve pulled out of my yard.

Hydrangea, twigs out of a tree and berries can all be found right in your backyard. These are especially helpful if you just want to add a few fresh elements to a store-bought wreath.

Let nature guide you

Gourds, hornets nests (abandoned) and duck feathers make wreaths more interesting. You can brush a glaze over the gourds to change the finish. With duck feathers you can simply stick them directly into the foliage of your wreath for an added wow factor.

Use weeds!

You would be amazed by what you can do with a weed.

Lightly spray them with gold or silver spray paint for accents in your wreath. Their shapes and texture add visual interest.

Memories to share Tired of putting up a gigantic tree every year? Instead, build a beautiful wreath and attach some of your family’s favorite ornaments. Even broken ornaments can find a place here as you place the chipped, cracked or broken side into the foliage.

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Season trends: Moss – This element is big because of the texture it adds – softness and asymmetrical lines if you allow the moss to hang.

Gold – Don’t go overboard, but spraying leaves such as magnolia add a bit of glamour to your holiday wreath or your table's centerpiece.

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Tidings of comfort & joy Written by GILLIAN DRUMMOND Christmas is the quintessential time of American abundance, of believing that “most is best.” However, there are those of us that feel this time of year is overwhelming from lack of time, a limited budget, sad memories, limited space or expectations that haven’t been met. Even if we have a bit of the Scrooge in us, we still all yearn for feelings of comfort and joy.

This can be achieved through simplicity, as not every inch of our home and our garden has to be decorated. We can certainly enjoy and admire those places where the owners have the time, resources and creativity to go all out, however, we don’t have to do it ourselves. My recipe for a simple, yet joyful Christmas is as follows: pick the places in your home where the least effort will have the most impact, and be sure to consider each of the five senses.

I like to start with the front door. It welcomes me each time I enter my house, and it welcomes my guests too. A beautiful wreath or spray of evergreens with red berries, small pinecones and a red ribbon delights.

My kitchen, where I spend a great deal of time, is next. Even a wreath or some fresh greens in a vase can make a joyful difference. Other important rooms for me are the living room or family room, where I entertain friends and family. My decorating choices there can be as simple as some fresh greens on the mantel, candles in the windows, and a Christmas tree.

A word about the tree – it doesn’t have to be huge. One that stands on a table can be equally effective in gracing a room. In the dining room, I find that just a beautiful centerpiece for the table and lots of candles are a wonderful touch. Please don’t forget the mistletoe!

Gifts can also be achieved through simplicity. I love to receive a gift that I truly need or will use. It can be something small and simple such as a good bottle of wine or a gift certificate to my favorite restaurant, The Lavender Bistro in downtown Tryon. I also love things that have a history.

What better place to find these things than at Landrum Antiques and Furniture in downtown Landrum? I saw some ruby red glasses that I would love to grace my Christmas table knowing that they have been enjoyed before in another home. For my equestrian friends I am going to Horse and Home in Landrum to choose the perfect gift from so many choices.

This brings me back to the five senses. When we please the senses, we feel balanced and whole, and what better time to do that than the holidays: Sight: The look of your home can be enhanced by pleasing decorations; color makes a big difference here. I like the traditional colors of red and green with gold. Red makes us feel warm and happy, green brings nature indoors and gold reminds us of the abundance we have in our lives.

The glow of tiny lights also reminds us we are part of a vast and wondrous universe.

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Sound: Make use of music, music and more music. Put on any kind of music, but not the same tunes you listen to all year. Music changes your mood and your outlook. Play Christmas music, of course, but also classical and traditional choices, like beautiful opera arias or upbeat Latin sounds.

Experiment and find music that brings you joy.

Taste: What an abundance of delicacies there are out there this time of year! We all know what taste can do for us. Just think of how your mood changes when you eat something like chocolate. Again, I like to keep it simple.

My preference is to have one special item at each meal – except Christmas dinner, of course! Any other time, if you are having guests, don’t try to make every dish you offer something extravagant. My special item is a caviar mousse that my mother always made. Decide what specialty item will transform your meal, and then relax about the rest of the dishes.

Touch: the warm, cozy feel of a down quilt on a cold winter’s night. I love the soft feel of a wool or cashmere throw across my lap while I take an afternoon nap in front of the fire. The fluffiness of a thick cotton towel after a long bath, the luxury of a silk nightgown as it slides over skin – these are delightful pleasures. The things we touch or that touch us definitely bring us comfort and joy.

Smell: Last, but not least, the smell of pine from your tree and greens, of wood smoke from your fireplace, cook-

ies baking in the oven or lavender in your bath can truly brings comfort and joy.

The secret in blending these touches is to be an alchemist and mix together the items that create a sensuous environment. As you think about what enhances the five senses, think also about another joyful part of Christmas – memories.

My favorite holiday memory is of Christmas Eve, is when we gathered as a family to trim the tree. Supper was a simple meal of fish stew, French bread, salad and fruit. We played old traditional Scottish and English Christmas music while we unwrapped all the precious decorations that had been collected since my grandparents’ time. Then we hung each one on the tree with stories talking about “do you remember when we got this ornament… where that one came from?”

After the tree was finished, we sat in front of the fire, the adults drinking champagne, the children sparkling cider, and everyone savoring marzipan and petite fours. When it was time to go to bed we did so, truly, in comfort and joy.

I wish everyone a joyful holiday season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Gillian Drummond is an interior decorator with her design studio in Tryon. Learn more about her work at www.drummondhouseco.com and reach her at info@drummondhouseco.com.

Peace of Mind

a gift you can give your family —in one conversation Conversations about end-of-life issues are hard to start, hard to have, hard to listen to.

You can give your family peace of mind, knowing they won’t have to make difficult decisions about your wishes when they’ll be struggling with many emotions.

The holidays are a time of good cheer, a time when families gather. Take some of that time to have “the conversation.” Then celebrate each other.

Celebrate life.

First, talk to us. We can help you talk to your aging parents, adult children, spouse, siblings, best friend or anyone in your life about end-of-life choices and care. We have the resources to get your most personal conversation started.

828.894.7000 864.457.9122

Ask for us by name!

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

These gift baskets, available at the Mill Spring Ag Center, take care of all your shopping for you. Get one with stone ground biscuit mix, black raspberry jelly and pumpkin butter or one with barbecue sauce and a gift certificate so the man in your life can return to the ag center to buy locally-raised meat.

Foothills Favorites Written by CAROL LYNN JACKSON Photographed by MARK SCHMERLING Not sure what to get someone this holiday season, but you want it to be unique?

Look no further than our foothills. Here are a few local food businesses that can help you put together memorable, meaningful gift baskets.

Mill Spring Farm Store sits inside the Mill Spring Ag Center. Reda Harvey is the proprietor and creative mind be-

hind this special business. The store features local foods and crafts with inventory often changing weekly. Reda is also confectioner for her own line of candies ranging from the WOW bar (like a Snickers) the Coconutzel (like a Mounds with a pretzel inside) and Dreamsicle fudge.

Choose from locally made items like Buttercup Cottage homemade marinara sauce, jellies, jams and sauerkraut that is hard to keep on the shelves. Saucy Lady makes artichoke relish, Datil Pepper red sauce and DE CEMBER 2 0 1 3

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salsa, and Dilly Green Beans.

Herbal tea blends including “Kudzu Chai” are available and regionally roasted coffees from the Brown Bean Coffee roasters offer a special “Farm Store Blend.” Other regional offerings include homemade pizza kits and locally bottled olive oil.

Some of Polk’s best handcrafted goods are here including soy candles, Herbal Mood Mists, upcycled shopping bags from LoveMyPlanet, All Natural Tool Rub from Blue Firefly Farm and Dan’s Lathed Wooden Bowls, some made from the Polk County cucumber tree.

Meanwhile, Back In Saluda is not forgetting vineyard, farm and homemade food gifts. Store proprietor, Mary Ann Asbill, grew up on a vineyard in Lexington, S.C., that grew grapes for Concord and Welches jellies. Homeschooling her three boys in Saluda included entrepreneurial endeavors, which grew into herb and produce gardening and mixing up dried herbs and tapenades sold at farmers’ markets. When the opportu-

Had no idea there were so many products you could buy locally?

We're happy to introduce you to these and more - Ken Stephen's spices, Bobbo's Bloody Mary mix, Theros Extra Virgin Olive Oil, BottleTree Beer from La Bouteille, Vineyard's Edge Chevre Cheese with garlic and chives and Foothills Pasture Raised Meats. Hungry yet?

nity came, they opened a retail storefront in the Nostalgia Courtyard in Saluda, alongside Wildflour Bakery.

“Home-made and hand-made foods are what we focus on,” says Asbill.

Stop by with a moment’s notice to pick up tasty goods and a festive wine or bubbly. Beau Domaine Mustards and Foothills Pasture-Raised Salami’s from Landrum are the perfect marriage. Angry Liberal pepper sauces grow their own organic peppers and save the seeds to start the next years’ batch. Green River Picklers’ can Tuxedo Beans and Spicy Appalachian Okra.

Holiday spirits include five NC wines and local craft beers. Equally fun is the offering of Blue Blaze Soda Company Honey Ginger Ale mix: a simple syrup product that mixes to make a non-alcoholic beverage.

“I am of firm belief that whoever the designated driver is, must have the very best drink,” said Asbill.

Mixed with mustard, it also makes a yummy sauce for chicken, pork, vegetables or fish.

Finishing the trio is La Bouteille Wine and Beer Boutique in Tryon.

Opened by Shelly Block in 2010, the store is a lively gathering place bringing a sense of place and community to the downtown area. Block helps lead economic development initiatives for both the town and artisans, alike. Find Ken Stephan’s’ food spices, local chocolates, and an endless selection of wines and beers that include tasting details from a knowledgeable staff.

Local wines from Overmountain Vineyard in Polk, and vineyards in Buncombe and Yadkin Valley greet you at the entrance to the store. Craft beers from Bottle Tree, created and brewed by Fred Block, Shelly’s husband, to Pisgah Growlers to Thomas Creeks’ only showcase a few varieties. With more than 1,600 different bottles of wine and beers to choose from, the local list is long and within 100 miles of Polk County. Complimentary wine tastings happen every Friday from 5–7 p.m. Block shares, “offering local products is important because it encourages local prosperity and promotes investment in your community. The businesses that offer local help make our communities unique.”

Find other cool gift basket items like a Pinot Grigio hard perfume from Brother and Brat, Bob Neely’s Wine Bottle Wind Chimes and unique tapestries from Pure Country Weavers in Lynn.

If none of this does it for you, give a gift certificate and let them choose for themselves. It all goes to local businesses in Polk County. Happy Holidays!

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Linda and Chris Howard opened Carolina Antiques & More in August 2011 after renovating the second floor of the former Heavener's Department Store in Landrum.

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&

Community

more

A warm, authentic Christmas spirit isn't embodied in elaborate blinking light monstrosities or in a trunk loaded with expensive gifts. Instead, it is made up of but a few things – community and believing in something grander than oneself.

Written by SAMANTHA HURST Photographed by ERIK OLSEN

C

hris and Linda Howard have embraced both and want to spread the spirit of Christmas to their neighbors.

The Howard's purchased one of Landrum’s historic downtown buildings in 2011, and transformed it into their business and home.

“When we drove down this street (East Rutherford), we could just see the potential for our business,” Linda Howard said. “Landrum was really known as the place to come for antiques. But even more than that, it’s a warm place where people can feel safe and everyone is friendly.”

Linda and Chris Howard are both very involved with the Landrum Area Business Association (LABA), an organization focused on bolstering community spirit and the city’s economy.

On Nov. 30, Landrum and the LABA opened the Christmas season with the city’s first Light Up Landrum event and downtown Christmas Stroll. LABA members and city leaders wanted to create a festive glow by lighting Christmas lights and luminaries along East Rutherford “When you come over those railroad tracks I imagine a twinkle of lights greeting you,” Linda said.

“Hopefully, every year we will just add to it and it will get bigger and bigger.”

Landrum Garden Club members created fresh greens to intertwine with the lights on East Rutherford lampposts. There will also be a 9 ½ foot tall Christmas tree set up on the deck of Foothills Amish Furniture. Landrum families are encouraged to help decorate the tree with an ornament they feel represents them.

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LABA members say they feel enhancing people’s connections to the community through events like this will naturally bring more people – residents and tourists – into the city’s shops and therefore enhance business for everyone.

Linda said she and Chris, who grew up locally, love Landrum and are excited to be part of its growth.

“It’s our job to reach out and expand tourism, expand the number of local people who shop in our stores,” Linda said. “I think as responsible business owners, we need to be out promoting Landrum and not just our own businesses.”

Making Landrum home For five years the Howards sold antiques in Inman, S.C. as a side business from their full-time jobs. As they kept expanding, they knew they needed a new location.

At the same time Chris’ passion for his high-pressure sales job was dwindling.

One day the couple pursued a vision they had and drastically changed their lives. Chris quit his job and the two stuck a For Sale by Owner sign in the front yard of their custom-built Lake Bowen home. In three days, the house sold.

Where to go next was a decision that had to be made quickly. Luckily, Linda said they already had a vision for where they wanted to be – the former Heavener’s department store in downtown Landrum.

Heavener’s, according to paperwork the Howards found and accounts from customers, operated from the 1920s to the 1970s. On the main floor, the store sold women’s and men’s clothing. Upstairs they offered children’s clothing and toys for Christmas, which Linda said they just draped with sheets when it wasn’t the holiday season. In the basement, customers could find produce.

Today, customers can still find many a nod to what once was, though they can no longer purchase apples or potatoes.

When Chris and Linda renovated the interior of the second floor, they pulled up flooring that hid beautiful wood, ripped out walls to uncover built in shelves running the length of the building and restored classic 1920s tiled ceilings. They also found wallets, old directories and receipts still in the walls. They’ve even kept tiny antique pricing signs noting 15 cent and $1 items.

“There was so much sweat and tears put into this place, but we knew what we wanted this store to be,” Linda said. “We worked around the clock for six weeks to get the store finished – most nights my husband worked until 3 or 4 in the morning.”

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

Discover the Christmas and community spirit inside Carolina Antiques & More in Landrum. The shop offers a number of gas and oil items that remind owner Linda Howard of her grandfather. These and other relics of the past, such as pinball machines, are carefully restored by Chris Howard.

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The Howards lived without a kitchen for over a year as they renovated the third floor of the former Heavener's Department Store into their new home. Linda Howard said they lived in a "bubble" of plastic around their bed during the process. Now they have a lovely home with possibly the shortest commute in Landrum.

When they were finished with the store, they took the next 14 months, living in a “terrific mess” upstairs, to transform two artists’ studios into a home. They had no kitchen for a year and lived in what Linda described as a bubble until work was complete. She said they preserved as much of the building as they could, while keeping the design of their new home open and simple.

Chris did much of the restoration work himself. Linda says he does the same kind of work on most any piece they sell in the antique store. He takes particular pride in restoring the mechanics of items, such as the pinball machines, that Carolina Antiques sells.

“He’s a fanatic about the condition of each item,” Linda

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said of Chris’ passion for the business. “This stuff is not made in China – it is all reflective of America and the craftsmanship we once put into things.”

She said it is also reflective of Landrum.

“Every single thing in here has a story, including the building. We have so many community members who come in and love to tell us about what things were like when they worked here,” Linda recalls. “One woman told me about how she loved to work on ‘the second floor,’ but hated when they made her work on the third floor, because no one ever came up there. I often wonder what they (owners of Heavener’s department store) would think of the place now.”

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“It’s a great resource ... and we hope to keep the pool alive for many years to come.”

- DAVE SCHERPING

For almost 30 years, the Tryon Swim Club has served as a respite for adults in Polk County to escape the pressures of their daily lives or to keep active in retirement.

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MAKING A

Splash

Written by NELL DEAVER & KIESA KAY Photographed by ERIK OLSEN At midnight or mid-morning, members splash into the crystal clear, warm water of the pool at Tryon Swim Club, as they have for almost 40 years.

The once-controversial club has become a peaceful place for exercise and reflection, said Nell Deaver, club co-founder.

“On a sunny day in summer of 1975, Frances Abbe and I splashed together in the tiny swimming pool at Mimosa Inn on Route 108,” Deaver recalled. “An ever-increasing number of retirees flowed into Polk County. It seemed like an ideal community for an adults-only, covered, heated swim club.”

Abbe agreed, and they soon enlisted her husband, Charlie, to help. They formed a board of directors and found a pool builder, which is when the struggle began. After looking at 57 parcels of land, they chose a vacant lot near the west end of Warrior Drive, across the river from Harmon Field, but area residents lodged vehement protests.

“Rumors swirled!” Deaver said. “Plans being made for a massage parlor or a dance hall; parties to be held late at night; beer cans and liquor bottles would be tossed all over the property; traffic along Warrior Drive would increase unbearably.”

The false rumors resulted in a petition signed by 115 citizens, and resulted in a restriction: No swim club would be allowed anywhere in the jurisdiction of the Tryon Zoning Ordinance.

Members continued their quest, and finally found a plot of land 120 feet outside of the town’s jurisdiction. The purchase in 1976 cost $13,000.

Members united, offering $1000 apiece, and

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Anne Nagle makes a few laps in the pool at the Tryon Swim Club. The club is open to members 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

one member putting up collateral for a $34,000 loan.

Even the ground breaking in 1977 incited excitement.

“One of the neighbors stood defiantly in the middle of the stretch and tried to block the bulldozer,” she said.

The Tryon Swim Club opened on April 13, 1977.

“I was the first to plunge headfirst into the beautiful blue pool water,” Deaver said. “This practice was not allowed thereafter, due to the fact that there is no diving board.”

The open house occurred two days later, and the original loan was paid in full by January 1979. The Tryon Swim Club on Warrior Drive began with 80 members, but has grown to a 100.

“It’s a great place to swim all year long and get some exercise. It’s a great resource that has been in our community for many years, and we hope to keep the pool 56 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

alive for many years to come,” said Dave Scherping, president of Tryon Swim Club.

The club is open to members 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except for pool cleaning times, from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning.

“It was very social when it first began, but now it’s more used for exercises and lap swimming,” said Anne Nagle, membership chairperson for the club. “There’s a front lawn with table and chairs, and sometimes people sit and chat. It’s for adults only.”

Members make a down payment of $1,500 and then pay annual dues of $400 a year for use of the heated, chlorinated swimming pool and the shower facilities.

Members exercise, swim and do water aerobics in the 50 foot by 22 foot pool.

“You can bring an out of town guest any time, but a

local guest can visit only once for a free swim before becoming a member,” Nagle said.

“We have 99 members, and we can have up to 100 members.

We also keep a waiting list of ten, because people do move on or leave town for various reasons. If anyone would like to try a swim and consider membership, the phone number to call is 828-817-3142.”

Deaver said that people have enjoyed the club and it has changed little over the years. Some of the club members are in their 90s, but the overall age range has lowered since the club’s opening, she said.

“All members in the early days were retirees,” she said. “Although I don’t get to the club anymore, I see from the membership list that more and more members seem to be folks who are still working.”

Gillian Drummond’s parents were among the original members, and she became a member herself three years ago. She has fond memories of her mother’s stories of meeting girlfriends at the Swim Club and sharing lunch on the patio.

“When I moved here, the first thing I did was call the membership chairman and say I wanted to get in as soon as possible,” Drummond said. “She said she had one place and three people wanted it, so whoever gets their check first gets it. I hopped in my car and drove over and handed her a check. It’s a wonderful, magical place. I think it’s the best-kept secret in Tryon.”

The club maintains a discreet presence in the neighborhood. Members restored a little house on the property, and the property can barely be seen from the road, Deaver said.

“We have no sign and never will have one,” Nagle added. “We’re not open to the public.”

The early rumors of raucous parties proved false, and the club has developed into a place where often only one or two people will swim at a time.

“Everybody watches out for everybody else,” Drummond said.

Deaver added, “We trust we have proven to be good neighbors.”

The Tryon Swim Club remains open to Polk County residents interested in using the facility. You can find out more about membership by calling 828-817-3142.

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Variety - the spice of life Our horse country serves as home to far more equestrian endeavors than one can easily count in their head. Those various disciplines were acknowledged at the FENCE Open Show including Latina Raville of Laurens, S.C. on Percheron/ Morgan cross “Lola.� See Judy Heinrich's article about the show on page 68. (photo

by Judy Heinrich)

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

Left: Wendell Haymon with his namesake Doctor Wendell MF with Chris Hickey in the saddle from the National Markel FEI Young Horse Championship Right: Don Principe with Michael Bragdell. (photo submitted by Maryanna Haymon)

appointments All things equestrian

UPCOMING EQUESTRIAN EVENTS A precious few events remain in these winter months, but a 2013 calendar will be here before we know it.

December 4 Equestrian Trails Coalition of WNC Contact: dr.b@rutherfordlargeanimal.com December 6-8 Paul Belasic Clinic @ Blue

Moon Farm Contact: Sophie Clifton sophie@montana.net

spc@gmail.com December 7-8 CCC Mini Maxi HDT @ Windridge Farm Contact: Alicia Henderson alicia@windridgeservices.com

December 6-8 Ilse Scharz Dressage Clinic @ Cross Creek Farm Contact: Katherine Pfaff, 828- December 9-13 Hunter Pace: 863-2119 River Valley Pony Club Contact: www.wchpace.org December 7 Greenville Foothills Pony Club December 9-13 Mtg. Robert Zandvoort Dressage Clinic Contact: greenvillefoothill-

@ Woodview Farm, Tryon Contact: Joy Baker 828-817-0315 December 13 Pisgah Trailblazers Monthly Meeting @ Brick’s Pizza Kitchen, Columbus 6 p.m. eat, 7 p.m. meet Contact: Michael Atkins Michael@atyourserviceair.com

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Above: Janelle Marshall and Solo - Worlds Ponies. (photo by Marie de Ronde-Oudemans Zwartewaal) Left: Sue and Angie McDaniel. (photo by Hoofclix.com)

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Carolina Carriage Club

Competition, service in foothills & worldwide Written by BARBARA MADILL Photographs submitted The “100 year rain” that plagued the Carolinas this summer resulted in fewer entries for the Carolina Carriage Club’s 17th Annual Pleasure Driving and Dressage Show (Sept. 21-22 at Harmon Field).

However, Margo Savage and Jackie Lewis, both from Columbus, as well as organizers of the show, agreed there were many silver linings.

“We were very pleased by the number of entries new to driving; that they did so well, and promised to return,” said Lewis, herself a seasoned driver and instructor. “Even more, we were delighted at how well the objectives for our pleasure show were met. Our mission has been to encourage new drivers and horses; to help experienced drivers advance their skills in an atmosphere of friendly competition; and to have fun safely.”

Dawn Cuttill of Ridge Spring, S.C., and her 16-year-old Morgan Mare, Jasmine, attended their first driving competition and won the Reserve Pleasure Championship and Overall Show Champion Horse.

“But what is this?” asked Cuttill as Jackie Lewis called her back and handed her the Concours d’ Elegance trophy.

Lewis said by showing in the Traditional Turnout Class, Cuttill and Jasmine had qualified to be judged throughout the show on overall appearance, and cleanliness – a real challenge for Judge Dede Bushneck as Saturday rain covered the gamut from sprinkles to near “Frog Stranglers”.

Giving full credit for her success to her coach and trainer, International Driving Competitor Janelle Marshall, Cuttill added, “Next year, we’ll be ready for dressage and obstacles.”

The pony division proved a bit of an upset for Suzan Sallstrom’s 23-year-old Chestnut Morgan Pony Mare GJL High Anxiety (AKA Heidi). After several years of winning the Overall Pony Championship, Heidi was defeated by Sue McDaniel’s 16-year-old Connemara Cross gelding, Pocket Rocket, but she then won the Reserve Obstacles Championship for Suzan’s “adopted” granddaughter, Alyssa McMillan.

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Top: Dawn Cuttill with awards from CCC Pleasure Show. (photo by Michael Cuttill) Above: Cutthill accepting Concours d' Elegance Trophy from show organizer Jackie Lewis. (photo by Foxbrier)

McDaniel and her daughter, Angie, of Joint Venture in Landrum, compete in driving trials, combined tests, shows (both ridden and driven, clinics as well as “riding to the hounds”. They are part of the international theme since emigrating from South Africa.

At the other end of the experience and size spectrum, and after many years of experience driving Morgan horses, Pam Pruitt, brought two miniature horses to Tryon.

“Just to get some ring experience in the VSE division,” said Pruitt, casually adding, “I can easily fit all six of my 62 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

minis into the space that I used to use for two full sized horses” With more than 10 miniatures on the grounds of Harmon Field, either showing or schooling, the VSE Division was easily the largest of the show. Pruitt’s 4-year-old black mare, Molly ended up Overall Champion VSE. Janelle Marshall offered visiting fellow Australian, Rhiannon Damsma, her own promising 8-year-old Arabian gelding, Ricky, for the show. Thus, she was available to coach her various students, who included CCC’s Club Treasurer Carol Ann Burns.

This was the first show for Burn’s 5-year-old Gypsy Vanner, Bellbottom Levi and Burns was quite pleased to win the Obstacle Championship, crediting Marshall’s help.

Marshall opted to drive Solo, a 19-year-old New Forest Pony gelding in the 2013 World Pony Championships in Pau, France Oct. 31-Nov. 2. One major advantage was that Solo, had only a trailer ride from Holland, instead of an international flight.

Back in the States, in Mooresboro, N.C., Windridge Farm’s ADS Sanctioned HDT and Combined Test took place Nov. 2-3.

Many of the officials and contestants had international driving event experience or aspirations, including President of the Jury Debbie Banfield, Cones Judge & Technical Delegate Craig Kellogg, and Course Designers Paul Nordan and Dale Govus.

While the final Windridge Event awards were being scored, competitors, staff and volunteers enjoyed a delightful meal and shared reports from France via Live Streaming, smart phones and Mike Arnold’s Driving News site drivingnews.us.

Team USA finished seventh, with individual accomplishments by friends of CCC - Tracey Morgan’s 13th place (Single Ponies). Morgan has visited CCC on a number of judging occasions and is expected again in 2014.

Paul Maye, who visited CCC some years ago, finished 17th.

But wait! What about our “Aussie” Marshall and Solo? The 19-year-old pony, leased from the de Ronde family (Holland) had only been in harness for two years after a career in dressage, eventing and all round pony club pony events.

Despite only a dozen or so drives with him, Marshall’s superbly driven dressage test, including the canter, resulted in her placing 10th after dressage and 16th overall in single pony competition.

Back at Windridge Farm, Dale Govus announced CCC President Price Story had the best score of the day of a CCC Member. Govus noted with pleasure that the Intermediate Division driver Rebecca Gutierrez’s and Naria BW6d’s scores would qualify for other ADS awards. This is yet another stepping stone in Windridge’s development of an approved venue for competitors of all levels.

CCC activities continue in 2013. Next is the “MiniMaxi HDT” at Windridge Farm Dec. 7-8. This event will be open to all, but for true minis this is billed as Act 1 of the 3 Act play, “Mini Triple Crown.” Act 2 is the Monster Mini CDE in Aiken, S.C. and Act 3 will take place at Poole Fun Day in Lexington, S.C. And, though the Carolina Carriage Club features educational fun events mixed with international competition, the club is also dedicated to community service and will close 2013 with a food drive, with the proceeds divided between food banks in NC and SC. Plans are also underway to collect unwanted but usable equipment, halters, leads, blankets, etc. to be donated to Hope for Horses as well as challenging other equestrian groups to sign up for a Hay Pledge. Visit www.carolinacarriageclub/index.html for more information.

The American Driving Society (ADS) created the category Very Small Equines - (VSE) to allow horses not exceeding 9.3 hands (99cm or 39 inches) at the withers, whether registered or not, to compete in the American Miniature Horse Association, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Shetland Pony Club.

Above: Sue McDaniel and Suzan Sallstrom celebrate the ribbons they won over the weekend. (photo by Foxbrier)

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The little horse that could Beauty’s story 64 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

This is a story about a brave and loving little horse I call Beauty.

Her name comes from her inner spirit – a spirit that allows her to see beyond her present circumstances, working hard to heal day by day. She never fussed, even when the halter that had grown into her head had to be removed, never retaliated when vets and farriers had to work on her. She simply allowed herself and others to “be” in that moment to help her. Here is Beauty’s story…

I received a call one day from one of many wonderful community volunteers who look out for and care for animals that otherwise would have no chance at all. These people deserve all the help and support we can give them. We are the voices of these animals that have none without us.

This particular volunteer works with Foothills

Left and above: Beauty warms the hearts of students with her gentle nature. Right: Beauty shows off her smile for Connie Brown. (photos submitted by Connie Brown)

Equestrian Rescue Association (FERA), which is the equine counterpart of Foothills Humane Society, here in Polk County.

She told me they had rescued two miniature horses that were in desperate need of rehabilitation. Most of our community is set up for large horses and ponies, and she asked me to come take a look at them as they were at somewhat of a loss as to just how to rehab and care for minis. Being now exclusively a miniature horse farm, we met where they were being kept.

I was horrified to see the condition of this mare, and even more horrified to find out that the “other� mini was her foal. To go through an 11-month pregnancy with next to no nourishment was beyond my comprehension. And even though she was starving and weak, Beauty cared for, nursed and protected her baby with her very being.

At this point, I think she knew these folks were trying to do right by her, and she never stopped showing graciousness and thankfulness. I knew I needed to get involved, and had the perfect set up for Beauty and her baby to get well and thrive. I went home to get my trailer thinking it was going to be a fight to get them in. In Beauty’s style and grace, she got right in and encouraged her foal to do the same. One of the most special qualities Beauty has, and can pass on to us, is that she never gave up hope, and never became ugly with anyone.

She never became bitter or untrusting. She loves and allows herself to be loved as well.

One phone call to a dear friend brought hay and grain with the offer for any medical supplies I might need for her and the foal. Though the foal was ready to be weaned, I thought it was important to keep them together for a while to cut down on the stress of the move to a new environment.

Day by day, Beauty got stronger, her old unhealthy hair started to shed out, and a new shiny coat came in its place. The bones, which were protruding, became less and less noticeable as she began the slow process of gaining weight. The foal, I came to call Sugar, was responding nicely to halter training, and coming to look forward to her interaction with humans.

She began to give kisses, hence the name Sugar. I think it is noteworthy to mention yet again the graciousness and insight of this mare.

Beauty never ceased to amaze and inspire me, and still when I am feeling particularly hopeless about this or that, I think of Beauty and the spirit she showed.

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Right: Beauty and her new owner Melanie at Hope Remains. (photo submitted by Connie Brown)

and asked her how she was doing today. She left off from eating grass, came over to where I was standing, put her head over the panel, and smiled up at me. I actually got a picture of that moment.

Beauty never stopped telling me how happy and grateful she was, and is still.

I’m sure you all want to know what became of this very special mare and her foal. Beauty now lives and works at a wonderful rehab facility of sorts called Hope Remains, located in Inman, S.C. They work with children, who, through no fault of their own, have been through circumstances that left them without a voice. Beauty, and another of my minis, Fancy, are paying it forward to give these children hope, joy, love and a voice through which to express themselves.

They work on the farm where they now live, giving and getting lots of attention and love from these special kids. They also travel to schools where they inspire children with special needs and disabilities.

Sugar and my Lola (they call Spice) live with and are loved by a wonderful young lady and her family in Spartanburg, S.C. Sometimes the large horses can intimidate children, but these quiet mild-spirited miniature horses have found their voice, and their purpose, always paying it forward to the betterment of all the lives they touch.

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I am grateful to be a part of this small equine world.

They have touched me also in more ways than I can describe. Having ridden hunters and then dressage for 30 years, I have truly reinvented myself in this ever growing equine industry.

When I was offered my first mini I asked, “what do you do with these things?”

A wonderful mentor and her husband showed me around the miniature horse world and explained the versatility of these horses. From driving for pleasure or competition, enjoying in hand obstacles, showing in halter, being seeing eye horses, serving as therapy horses or just allowing them to enrich our lives, these little equines are amazing.

Beauty still carries the scars along her whole back of an ill-fitting saddle I am sure caused her great pain. She does not, however, carry those scars or memories in her heart, a lesson we would do well to imitate. This is her greatest message to these children, and to us.

You can reach Green Creek Miniature Horses to learn more about their farm by calling 828-863-2083 or emailing greencreekminis@yahoo.com – article submitted by Connie Brown, Green Creek Miniature Horses

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

FENCE

Open Show celebrates variety Written and photographed by JUDY HEINRICH

Above: Landrum’s Sandra Hyder on her experienced show mule, “My Assets” (Sara).

OPPOSITE PAGE: Top left: Greer’s La’el Mathis on Arabian “Gabby,” and Kaylee Boger on QH “Smokey Joe.” Top right: Green Creek’s Shelby Wilson on Appendix QH “Yossarian” (YoYo).

Middle left: Fletcher’s Marilyn Brown (front) with Appaloosa “Lucy,” and Katie Welch with Sorraia Mustang “Sam.” Middle right: Green Creek’s Patti Lovelace on American Saddlebred “Attachés Grand Finale” (Noble).

Bottom: Friesians from Gowensville’s Dark Knight Stables, with owners Michelle and Kevin Summer (from left) and crew.

Most local shows focus on specific disciplines – like dressage or hunter/jumper – and tend to draw horses of similar breeds or traits. That certainly wasn’t the case at the November 2 Open Show benefiting FENCE. This show was open to all breeds and featured Western, English and Gaited classes, as well as combined classes for Trail (equestrian obstacle course), Egg-and-Spoon and Pepsi Challenge.

There were horses (and one mule) of all sizes and colors, with riders in all manner of dress and tack.

Fun was the order of the day, whether horses and riders were experienced competitors or out for their first show experience.

Participants are hoping the show becomes a FENCE tradition, something that Show Manager Sue Truitt and the Open Show committee are already working on with FENCE for next year.

“Our goal is to make the Open Show a good experience for you and your horse and we always welcome any suggestions on ways to improve,” Truitt says. “We want to provide a relaxed and fun opportunity for everyone to compete fairly with any breed. Whatever your ability or discipline, there will be a class you can enter.”

Show committee member Sally Rock believes having Open Shows can add a new dimension to FENCE: “With the variety of riding classes and breeds featured in a single event, the Open Show concept can become a new, integral part of FENCE and enrich the equestrian opportunities at this superb facility.”

These photos, taken as riders waited their turns for the Trail class, highlight the variety of horses and riding styles at the FENCE Open Show.

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Left: Notable costume winner Cora Parrish - Tonto. Right: First place costume Angie Rose - The Knight.

Green Creek Hounds

Hunter Pace Written by JAN SMITH Photographs by LOU SMITH & JOAN DOVE

stylish antique hats and vintage dresses. The lovely ladies were Jana Hinely, Ginny Sullivan and Carla Tumbelson.

Joey Cabaniss, attired in a very vibrant clown tie, told The goblins were out, the witches were on their riders of the trails and was joking all the way as timer exbrooms and spiders were seen crawling in unusual places traordinaire. His sweet assistant was Alice Bentivegna. at the Green Creek Halloween Hunter Pace.

The costume judge was Joan Dove. The costume winJerry Dove, CeeCee Wilmanns, Ron Picarri and Peter ner was Angie Rose as The Knight! There were many Shanahan worked excellently together in parking and other wonderful and fun costumes, among them notable allowing room for horses to move around and trailers to mentions to Alivia Cotter and her pony Sprinkles as get in and out safe and easily. cartoon character Marty in Madagascar 3, Cora Parrish as Three “old” ladies worked efficiently at registration Tonto and Cindy Stafford as an American Indian. and had a cauldron of fun size candy to give you a sugar A big clap, yell out and thank you goes to all the voljolt. “Old” refers to their being dressed in gray wigs, unteers: Robin Brackett, Susane Brown, Deborah Bundy, 70 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

Notable costume winner: Alivia Cotter and her pony Sprinkles - Marty from the movie Madagascar 3.

Marion Connor, Janet Cummings, Jerry Dove, Christi Fowler, Tot Goodwin, Ines Jennings and son Jack, Barb Ketcham, Kem Ketcham, Anna and Dan Lavigne, Betsy McCray, Cynthia Milligan, Wes Moore, Kathy Nebel, Harald Pfeiffer, Stephanie Schulte, Judi Shutz, Harry Stinson, Jim Sumrell, Jan Whitehurst, and landowner Roger Smith.

THE RESULTS: The turnout was spectacular with a total of 143 riders in 66 teams.

There was a total of 53 riders in 27 teams for the Field Division, and the Optimal time for Field Division was one hour, 26 minutes 57 seconds, less than a four minute difference from the Trail Rider Division.

First place in the field division went to Valerie Wrobel of Rutherfordton, N.C. with a time of one hour, 27 minutes, 22 seconds.

The red ribbon went to Anita Crouse of Marion and Anne McIver of Greenville, S.C. with a time of one hour, 27 minutes, 26 seconds. Third place went to Anitra and Calvin Halfrod of Columbus with a time of one hour, 29 minutes, 34 seconds. Fourth place went to Gena Meredith of Landrum with a time of one hour, 29 minutes, 36 seconds.

Fifth place went to Beth Goldizen of Roebuck with a time a time of one hour, 30 minutes, two seconds. Sixth place was awarded to Kathy Hodge of Asheville and Shauna Moore of Columbus with a time of one hour, 20

minutes, 57 seconds.

There were a total of 90 riders in 39 teams for the Trail Rider Division. The Calculated Optimum Time was one hour, 30 minutes, four seconds.

The blue ribbon was awarded to Taylor Boswell of Moore, S.C., Tatianna Carey of Tryon, Kathlyn Edwards of Inman, S.C. and Erin Gambrell of Campobello, S.C. with a time of one hour, 28 minutes 14 seconds. A very close second went to Juliet Biemiller of Asheville, N.C. and Elizabeth Holzschuh of Landrum with a time of one hour, 28 minutes, 10 seconds. Third place went to the trio of Melinda Holland of Tryon, Linda Lambert and Ivey Sumrell of Columbus with a time of one hour, 27 minutes, 27 seconds.

Fourth place went to Rebecca Barnes and Rick Webel of Landrum with time of one hour, 33 minutes, 45 seconds.

The pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness month was awarded to David and Donna Taylor of Bostic, N.C. with a time of one hour, 33 minutes, 52 seconds. Sixth place went to Michael and Sheila Veatch of Tryon with a time of one hour, 26 minutes, four seconds. An honorable mention goes to Betsy Hastings of Landrum and Flo Sommerich of Tryon with a time of one hour, 25 minutes, 47 seconds. Also honorable mention goes to Loreen Finn and Diane Roemer of Landrum with a time of one hour, 25 minutes, 39 seconds.

Check the website often at www.wchpace.org for upcoming events, changes, articles and standings as well as to view your photos taken by the infamous Lou Smith.

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Dudley Updates Written by BARBARA CHILDS

"Get over here, quick Dudley. I found the stash. It's pizza crust from Uno's in Chicago (that's what the box says. It's deep dish spinach with cheese, and it smells so good."

This is quite nice, even if it's just the crumbs. I'll take the crust, and you can have a nibble on the spinach.

The evening stars are out tonight, and barn lights offer warm comfort in the full vanilla moon of winter. It's raining, too. And the rain feels warm like my mother's milk once tasted and felt. There is so much to be grateful for as we pass through another season of holiday cheer and peace.

Madeline says she is grateful for friendship with humans here, plenty of clean water, perfect shelters, clean and dry bedding, stalls and pastures to lie down in comfort, assuring tones of voice with the barn manager and our barn mom, glossy coats that are free of burrs and tangles, and well manicured hooves. I too am grateful for these blessings and more, like the warm water that mixes the beet pulp, carrots and peppermints, apples, and sweet potato treats, and the good homemade molasses oat cookies that our editor bakes for us.

Speaking of our editor, just peek in the barn office as Bob Seager and the Silver Bullet Band are playing Night Moves. She's dozing on the couch with a glass of port nearby and a big bowl of popcorn. Sophia (Greek for wisdom) is sleeping in her lap. This is a new dog she has adopted.

What a picture of contentment. Outside the wind joins in the dance of shaking leaves like confetti up into the night skies. All speaks of fresh baked bread and pizza smells from the oven. It's all sunshine to me even when the darkest point of the winter solstice is upon us.

"Dudley, you are glowing like a pumpkin, and your attention to details is astounding dear donkey brother and friend.

True love is like bread. All you need is the right ingredients, a little heat, and some magic to rise." Now for the big news in the equine hood of Tryon.

place in the $2,500 Hunter Derby. She also won the Adult Hunter Classic on her new horse, Pink Lady. Congratulations to this great show team!

Liz Dicey and Aleah Wicks are new members to the FETA board. Liz is a retired educator, and she is an ardent rider dedicated to the welfare of the trail system here. Her equine interests are in dressage and trail riding.

Aleah is a certified Japanese acupuncturist at Fat Dog Farm, which is home to her horses, chickens and a friendly fat dog.

Nancy Mahler and Maude Carr make their transition from the regular FETA board to the advisory board All damage to the FETA Trails have been restored and 50 trees were cut out of the trails. A bridge is just being finished across the creek on the Red Fox Run Trail. Kostlee Family Farm and Lincoln and Suzanne Russell's show team have royally shown in the Octoberfest at Fence. Vanilla Bridge has been rebuilt. James Kickok and Bill Tucker from the Mahler's Chinquapin Farm have done fantastic work Sky and Shannon Dowling were great as Pre-Child Hunter repairing the Pony Track System and more. Please say hi Reserve Champions both Saturday and Sunday. Diane Randolph's Halston won her first Pre-Green Class. Dr. Phil- and thank you to them, as the trails would still be closed if it weren't for their hard work and giving spirits. Jonathan lipe Rodriguez's Bavarian stallion Levano won the Regular Rowe is another angel to FETA. He worked Sundays with Working Class. Heather Brehn and Copy Editor won some his own equipment to fix trails from this summer's damage. jumper ribbons, and Caitlin Sarsfield-Mahan won second

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MADElINE'S recipe

Patricia Schlueter is riding Missy, a 14-yearold Tennessee Walker at Erin Gambrell's new farm in Campobello. Pat and Missy are good partners, and enjoy their friendship together.

Maryanna Haymon's Don Principe has sired many champions. His offspring have won the Traveling Trot Award from the USDF for being the highest scoring champion, with all ages, breeds, and genders. This year it is Dansuse MF. This remarkable achievement has never been done before by any stallion, domestic or foreign. Marydell Farm has recorded a fifth win.

The USEF has ranked Marydell as Maryanna's second for producing dressage horses in the USA. The USDF also ranked Marydell Farm as the third highest for dressage sport horses in the country.

Danuse MF won the 2013 USDF filly championship with a median score of 82.7 percent.

Dinah Shore won the USDF 2013 two year old filly championship with a median score of 82 percent.

Serenade MF is Reserve Champion Filly USDF of 2013.

Helios MF is reserve champion colt USDF of 2013.

PUMPkIN CHEESECAkE

Crust 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 5-6 tbls. unsalted butter 1 teasp. cinnamon 3 tbls. dark brown sugar

Filling 3 8 oz. pkgs. of cream cheese softened 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 4 eggs 1 15 oz. can pumpkin 1/4 cup all purpose flour 2 teasp. pumpkin spice 2 tbls. rum extract 1 cup heavy cream Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix crust ingredients and press into a greased bottom of a 9 inch springform pan. Mix in a large bowl, cream, cheese until fluffy. Add sugar and eggs one at a time. Add pumpkin, spices, flour, rum extract. Pour into crust and bake for 1 hour 45 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Whip heavy cream and 2 tbls. sugar-add some rum extract and garnish with toasted almonds. A Rembrandt of a dessert fit for royalty!

GAS LOGS 32 Burning Displays No Power Required 99.9% Efficient

Pam Stone of Stone's Throw Farm in Campobello has just taught another Boot Camp Clinic organized by Nicole Watts at her farm.

All slots were filled. This was an inspiring good time for learning.

Be sure to check out the homemade bread at Coll Mama's Bakery in the Re-Ride II shop. It is heavenly. Cowgirl Coffee is good, too. There are homemade cupcakes and coffee cakes as well.

Be sure to wear orange as you ride for protection during deer season. The deer are running and the hunters are out with bow season and rifles too.

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parting glance

A reader captured this breathtaking sunset washing the sky over Saluda in early November with brilliant pink, orange and purple hues. (photo submitted by Eddie Jobling) If you would like to submit a Parting Glance shot, please email it to news@tryondailybulletin.com.

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You’re Invited to St. Luke’s Hospital’s

Grand Opening

Please join us as we celebrate the opening of an impressive six-bed patient wing and state-of-the-art rehabilitation center!

Sunday, December 15 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

In the new patient wing at St. Luke’s Hospital.

Join us for tours, refreshments and a visit from Santa!

RSVP by December 11 to (828) 894-2408

Come see what we’ve built for our community...

Hospital 76 L IFEINO URFO O T101 HI L L S. COM

Drive, Columbus, NC 28722 www.saintlukeshospital.com