LIOF_Oct2012

life in our foothills

FEATURE

October 2012

Lifeinourfoothills.com

Brady’s

art

Blue Wall

October 2012

Preserve

A Tryon

gem

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FEATURE

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Publisher’s Note

S

ummer days behind us, we welcome autumn's cooler weather and the annual turning of the leaves. Hills of brilliant gold, red and orange greet the dawn in a showy splash of color, beckoning us to enjoy their spectacular splendor. The views of our area, from Saluda to Campobello, are not to be missed, and in these pages we’ll also share some of their stories.

In this issue, meet Holland Brady, whose love of drawing homes and buildings since a young boy continues to this very day. Now in his 80s, Holland still goes to the office every morning, wielding his pencil and creating designs for homes and offices. His designs stand out in homes across North and South Carolina, throughout Gillette Woods and at the Cliff of Glassy and as far away as Maine and Florida.

Discover how the vision of John Vining and James Payne, along with some friends, helped turn an overgrown ravine in downtown Tryon into the beautiful town park known as Rogers Park. Complete with an outdoor amphitheater and stage, lights, picnic tables and restrooms, Rogers Park is truly one of Tryon’s gems.

Check out our calendar of events for upcoming festivals and activities.

Enjoy the outdoors and hiking? Then be sure to read the Blue Wall Preserve article on page 41 for tips and an inside look at what this nature preserve has to offer. Have an unruly pet and need some ideas on training? We’ve got some great techniques for you to try starting on page 56.

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. Look for the newest issue of Life in Our Foothills the last Thursday of each month. We invite you to pick up a copy each month. It's sure to include someone you know — a neighbor, family member, a friend or perhaps even you!

The magazine is available free of charge at more than 100 locations throughout the area. 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@lifeinourfoothills.com

On the cover Longtime local architect Holland Brady's work is seen throughout the area.

Cover design by Gwen Ring.

Photograph by Betty Ramsey.

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PUBLISHER Betty Ramsey EDITORIAL Samantha Hurst Leah Justice Gwen Ring Barbara Tilly CONTRIBUTORS Barbara Childs Gillian Drummond Robin Edgar Joe Epley Carol Lynn Jackson Gerald Pack Scarlette Tapp Pat Thorne PRODUCTION Gwen Ring MARKETING Nicholas Holmberg Lenette Sprouse ADMINISTRATION Jessy Taylor DISTRIBUTION Jeff Allison Jonathan Burrell Nick Elder Tony Elder

Life in Our Foothills is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Life in Our Foothills is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Tryon Newsmedia Inc. [the Publisher].

No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher.

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

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

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

CONTENTS

51 Features 24 ROGERS PARK: A TRYON GEM

The beginnings, development and current uses of Rogers Park in Tyon.

29 TRYON RUNNING CLUB

Runners put their passion to work for the community.

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31 BRADY'S ART

Holland Brady's architectural signature is seen on homes and buildings throughout the area.

In Every Issue

41 BLUE WALL PRESERVE

8 SHORT STORIES

48 AN INGLORIOUS END

Explore the area's rich artistic roots through the Tryon Arts & Crafts School Fall Festival, visit the House of Flags to view flags from the Eisenhower administration

12 OUT & ABOUT

Experience mountain music, take a walk through the woods or "Finish with George."

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Celebrate the area's rural heritage at the Green Creek Heritage Festival, cheer for local football teams and experience film and music events.

56 PET TRAINING TECHNIQUES Advice from trainer Pat Thorne.

74 WHY I LOVE THE FOOTHILLS

Patrick McLendon is director of the Mill Spring Agricultural Center.

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The pleasures of this 3-mile stretch of the Palmetto Trail.

Loyalist Colonel Ambrose Mills his descendants in Polk County.

51 LESSONS ON THE COURT

It's more than just tennis for participants in Cary Davenport's Carolina Junior Tennis program.

Home & Food 36 COLOR. COLOR. COLOR.

Bold, vivid colors are all the rage in interior design today.

38 THAT'S AGRITAINMENT!

Celebrating local agriculture through the Farm to Fork Supper and other events.

46 QUADRUPLETS

Tryon Elementary is seeing quadruple this year.

CONTENTS

64 Appointments 59 UPCOMING EVENTS

Fall approaches, bringing a wealth of equestrian events.

60 FOX HUNTING: THE MINNICK FAMILY The Minnick family finds a fit with the Tryon Hounds.

64 CAMP WAYFARER

Rachael Tessmer of Landrum develops the Wayfarer Riding School in Flat Rock, N.C.

67 EQUINE HEALTH: GASTRIC ULCERS

Dr. Rich Metcalf of Tryon Equine Hospital gives advice on symptoms, diagnosing, treatment and prevention of ulcers in your horse.

69 TRYON RIDING & HUNT CLUB MEETING TRHC hosts is 87th Annual Meeting at Sunnydale.

70 AN ENCHANTING PERSON

An account of Jarrett Schmidt, a prominent personality in Tryon.

72 DUDLEY

Dudley the donkey shares his view of the equestrian world.

SHORT STORIES

Fall Festival

Tryon Arts & Crafts School

Tryon Arts and Crafts School will present the 5th Annual Fall Festival on Oct. 13-14, at 373 Harmon Field Road in Tryon. Featuring more than 40 artisans of the region, this event will be held rain or shine.

In addition to shopping for handmade, oneof-a kind arts and crafts, visitors to the festival can enjoy food from local eateries, tour the facility, see craft demonstrations and participate in activities for the kids. A silent auction will be held of art objects made by Tryon Arts and Crafts School members and instructors as well as items and services donated by local businesses.

The Tryon Arts and Crafts studios will be open for demonstrations of crafts and techniques. Demonstrations will include pottery, lapidary, jewelry, lampwork glass beads, woodturning and weaving, as well as metalworking in the forge throughout both days. Some Visitors browse through the booths at a previous Tryon Arts and Crafts School Fall Festival. demonstrators may invite guests to try their (photo submitted by Christine Mariotti) hand at the craft.

The Tryon Arts and Crafts Fall Festival is an event for the whole family. Activities for children of all ages will be available, including several free craft projects. The kids can make masks, hats and other components for dress-up, just in time for Halloween.

The fall festival is free and open to the public. All donations collected over the weekend will go to support the mission of Tryon Arts and Crafts School. The festival is made possible by support from the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources, Mountain 1st Bank, Pro Physical Therapy, Musselwhite Electric, Frog and Swan Antiques, Foothills Financial Group, the Tryon Daily Bulletin, the News Leader and Polk County News Journal, and the Timken Company.

Article submitted by Christine Mariotti.

The Upstairs Artspace, with the support of the Polk County Community Foundation, presents “Heated Exchange,” an international invitational exhibit encaustic art. The show, which features some of the nation’s most renowned and cutting-edge artists, will be on display now through Nov. 17. The exhibit is curated by Reni Gower of Virginia Commonwealth University, an expert in the field. Encaustic, an ancient technique in which pigment is suspended in the hot wax, is undergoing a resurgence in popularity.

The gallery will also offer workshops that will allow everyone from the non-artist to the professional to explore the possibilities of this medium. The workshops include an introduction to encaustic by Asheville-based artist Mary Farmer on Oct. 12 and 13, and an advanced session featuring artist Gower, Kristy Deetz and Jane Allen Nodine on Nov. 10.

For more information about the show or the workshops, contact the Upstairs at 828-859-2828 (business hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or by email at frontdesk@upstairsartspace.org. You can also visit the gallery’s website, www.upstairsartspace.org. Article submitted.

“Heated Exchange” encaustic art exhibit

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SHORT STORIES

Practical Horsemanship

for Women and the Horses They Love

Are you looking for a better way to take your horsemanship to the next level? Isothermal Community College in Columbus announces a series of courses designed to increase your confidence to keep yourself safe while enjoying your hobby. Whether you are a competitive or pleasure, English or Western or beginner or advanced rider, this progressive series of three sessions can help you to deepen the trust bond and decrease the battles with your horses.

The class is called “Practical Horsemanship for Women and the Horses They Love” and will be offered in three sessions. The first session (already completed) is “Leadership 1: Respect and Ground Manners.” The second session is “Confidence 1: Desensitizing/De-Spooking" and session three covers “Control with Balance 1: Achieving Natural Balance.” Each session is a complete module, but for full benefit, you might want to start at the beginning and stay with it to the end.

Instructors are Lynn Brown, owner, and Dana Fadeley, farm manager and assistant head trainer of Better Transitions Training Center.

A passionate equestrian, Lynn Brown has been a professional instructor of Natural Horsemanship for 18 years. She lived and worked with horses in Colorado and Florida, studying at the International Study Center for Parelli Horsemanship. Several years ago she moved to Polk County, settling on an 80-acre farm where she set up her training center, Better Transitions. Most recently, Lynn studied and incorporated the training methods of Dan James, 2012 World Champion of the Road to the Horse Colt Starting competition.

Lynn shared her philosophy, "If I train your horse, he learns to respect me which does nothing to change his perception of you. Your horse alone now possesses the new knowledge which will only translate temporarily into new behaviors. However, when I empower you with the knowledge to communicate like a leader with your horse, he will also learn to willingly honor your ideas and respect your leadership. No one can take that away from you."

Classes will meet Tuesday evenings from 6- 7:30 p.m. at Better Transitions Training Center. The first session has already been completed. Session two meets Oct. 16 – 30 and session three runs Nov. 6 – 20. Class size is limited.

To register, call 828-894-3092. More information is available at www.bettertransitions.com. Article submitted by Kate Barkschat.

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SHORT STORIES

Eisenhower Flags at

House of Flags

Oct. 10 - 13, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

For the first time in history all six flags from the White House during President Eisenhower’s administration (19531961) will be together in a single exhibit at the House of Flags Museum in Columbus Oct. 10-13. The exhibit will be open for viewing from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day.

Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States, was the only President in the nation’s history to serve under three different president’s flags. The exhibit includes the original 48-star, 49-star, and 50-star president’s flags and the corresponding “Stars and Stripes” that once graced the oval office.

The one-of-a-kind 49-star President’s Oval Office flag, handmade at the U.S. Army Philadelphia Quartermaster 49-Star President's Flag embroidery detail. (photo submitted) Depot in 1958, will be on public display for the first time since leaving the White House in 1960. This priceless handembroidered silk president’s flag featuring 49 stars representing Alaska’s statehood in January 1959 may be the only one of its kind ever made.

Another one-of-a-kind flag on display is the actual 50star U.S. flag unveiled in the White House Cabinet Room when Hawaii became the 50th state in August 1959.

According to Robert Williamson of the House of Flags, these are the highest quality hand-made flags you’ll ever see.

The House of Flags Museum is located at 33 Gibson Street, Columbus. For more information, visit www.HouseOfFlags.org. Article submitted by Robert Williamson.

50 Star President's Flag from 1960. (photo submitted)

Foothills Equestrian Nature Center will hold its first Oktoberfest on Oct. 27 from 3-9 p.m. at the FENCE covered arena.

The wines and beer for the event will be provided by Green Creek Winery, La Bouteille, Parker-Bins Vineyard, Southern Appalachian Brewery and Overmountain Vineyards.

Food with a German flavor will be available for purchase from: Haus Heidelberg of Hendersonville, N.C. and Larkin’s Carolina Grill of Columbus.

Music will be provided by Special Edition and Project X. Artists and antique dealers can purchase stalls in advance for by calling FENCE at 828-859-9021.

Tickets can be purchased also by calling FENCE at 828-859-9021. For additional information, visit FENCE at www.FENCE.org. Article submitted by Theron Farmer.

FENCE to hold first

Oktoberfest

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Holy Cross Celebrating an extraordinary life Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Tryon will celebrate Hildegard Von Bingen in a special event on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Hildegard of Bingen, born 1098 near Mainz, Germany, was a mystic, poet, liturgical composer, dramatist, medical doctor, and a herbalist. A tenth Hildegard Von Bingen child, she was tithed to the church and raised by an anchoress, eventually to become the abbess of a Benedictine monastery, and the founder of two other religious houses.

From early childhood, Hildegard experienced visions that inspired her artwork and writings. In later life, she traveled throughout southern Germany and Switzerland preaching sermons, an unprecedented activity for a woman, especially one with the reputation of speaking her mind, even when it meant openly criticizing the pope and emperor. On Oct. 7, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI will proclaim Hildegard a Doctor of the Church.

The celebration at Holy Cross will include displays and presentations on various subjects for which Hildegard’s work is well-known. Local experts will speak on “Harmonic Geometry” in music, “Sacred Mandalas and Illuminations” as well as the “Sacred Art of Chant.” The keynote address will be by Dr. Donna Spivey Ellington, medieval historian from Gardner-Webb University.

There will be a Market Faire featuring books, chant CDs, herbs, handmade soaps and other gift items. An authentic medieval German luncheon will be served. The close of the event will be a prayer service in the chapel, celebrated by Fr. Michel Doty of Holy Cross and Fr. John Eckert of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. The Schola Choir of St. John’s will also be featured in the prayer service.

Tickets are available at the Book Shelf, Holy Cross and St. John’s Catholic church. Call 828-859-9741 or check www.holycrosstryon.org for more information.

Article submitted by Hilary Giner-Sorolla.

SMALL JOBS ARE MY SPECIALTY!

OUT & ABOUT

Calendar of events OCTOBER Oct. 4 – 6, noon Moonshiners Reunion and Mountain Music Festival This three-day event is one of the region’s most authentic annual folk celebrations where you can camp, shop, hear southern music and hear tales of the shiners of old. Music begins Thursday, Oct. 4 at 8 p.m.

View or buy from exhibitors and vendors such as broom makers, wood carvers, soap and makers.

For more information, call 864680-0225. Event at Plum Hollow Rd. in Campobello, S.C. Oct. 6, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Bark in the Park Lennie’s Kids' third annual Bark in the Park event will be held at Harmon Field. This year’s event will include an animal blessing by Rev. Michael Doty, a puppy kissing booth, bake sale, pet portraits, face painting and raffle with prizes.

For information, call Lennie Rizzo at 828-859-5835 or Terri Edwards of Gibbs Welding and Crane Service at 864-457-4544.

Event held at 272 Harmon Field Rd. in Tryon.

Oct. 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fourth annual Columbus Farm Festival Mills Street will be closed to vehicles but open to pe-

destrians who have an interest in seeing farm displays, farm equipment and items crafts people will be making. There will also be a hayride and corn hole games sponsored by Polk FFAs. Farm animals will also be exhibited.

For more information, contact Lynn Sprague or Laura Brookshire at 894-2281. Events held at Mills St. in Columbus.

Oct. 7 and 21, 2 - 4 p.m.

Walk in the Woods Join members of the Saluda Community Land Trust on guided walks along the many trails in and around Saluda.

For more information, call 828749-1560.

fresh local food, drink, music and art. Enjoy your dinner outdoors, by candlelight, under the giant magnolia tree on the lawn in front of what used to be Mill Spring School.

For more information contact Lynn Sprague at 828-894-2281 or purchase tickets online atwww. polkcountyfarms.org. Event held at 156 School Rd. in Mill Spring.

Oct. 13 - 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tryon Arts & Crafts Fall Festival.

Tryon Arts & Crafts' fifth annual Fall Festival will feature more than 40 artisans and craftspeople of the region for two days, rain or shine. In addition to shopping, visitors to the festival will enjoy food from local eateries and fun activities for the kids, including demonstrations in pottery making, lapidary, woodturning and weaving, as well as metalworking in the forge throughout both days.

Event held at 373 Harmon

Oct.8 and 15, 3:30 - 5 p.m. (approx.)

Guided Walk Series at Pearson’s Falls The Tryon Garden Club at Pearson's Falls offers a fall series of walks focusing on wildflowers, ferns, trees, shrubs and vines. Learn about disease control, pruning, watering techniques and more. A nominal fee is charged for each event, plus admission for non-club members.

For more information call Annie at 864-457-7278, or Pearson's Falls at 828-749-3031. Event Field Rd. in Tryon. held at 2720 Pearson Falls Rd. in Oct. 19, 8 p.m.

Saluda.

The Emerson String Quartet The Emerson String QuarOct. 13, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. tet will kick off Tryon Concert Third Annual Farm to Fork Association's 58th annual season of classical music to the Supper, Open House and community this year. All con50/50 Raffle certs are at 8 p.m. at the Tryon This event emphasizes the Fine Arts Center. men's agricultural roots and For more information about this sense of community through

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annual subscription program, contact Dorothy Wycoff, P.O. Box 32, Tryon N.C. 28782. Event held at 34 Melrose Ave. in Tryon.

Oct. 19 Essence of Fall A ladies only event featuring food, auctions and music.

Participants purchase and then decorate a table with their own items. Prizes will be given to the best-decorated table.

Also, table centerpieces will be auctioned at the end of the evening.

For more information, contact Kathy Mixon at 828-749-3651, Linda Whitaker at 828-749-5121, Andrea Gray at 828-329-4152 or Jessica Freeman at 828-768-5540.

Held at The Party Place and Event Center on Friendship Church Rd. in Saluda.

Oct. 20, 7:30 a.m.

Tour de Leaves The 13th annual Tour de Leaves begins at the Harmon Field log cabin.

Advance registration is currently open online at www.active.com. The three main rides are grande, petite grande and lite. Registration closes Oct. 17 at midnight. Event held at 272 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon.

Oct. 20, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (approx.)

Horse Country Farm Tours The third Saturday of each month, a few farms in the same area will open to the public.

Visitors may see these farms on a self-guided tour. This event will feature farms in the Collinsville Rd. area of Polk County. Rain or shine. Stop for lunch at Stone Soup Market

OUT & ABOUT Cafe where the interiors reflect the area's love of horses.

By appointment only. Call 828-817-3753 for details.

Oct. 20, 5 - 11 p.m.

All You Can Eat Chamber Seafood Party Dancing, music, seafood (and chicken for those opposed to seafood) and bonfire. Takes place at FENCE. Tickets available at the Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, call 828-859-7427. Event held at 3381 Hunting Country Rd., Tryon.

Oct. 27 2012 Hincapie Gran Fondo, “Finish with George.”

A bike ride celebrating George Hincapie's retirement after 19 years as a professional cyclist. Hincapie is an American professional road bicycle racer currently residing in Greenville, S.C. Races start in Greenville, S.C. and portions of two races will travel through Polk County.

Visit www.granfondohincapie. com for more information.

Oct. 27, 3 – 9 p.m.

Octoberfest Enjoy a lively evening at FENCE at its first Oktoberfest. Live music, beer and wine for sale, as well as German and American fare. Art and antiques available for purchase.

For more information, call 828-859-9021. Event held at 3381 Hunting Country Rd. in Tryon.

RECURRING Walks in the Woods Sponsored by the Saluda Community Land Trust the first and third Sunday of each month, through October. Meet at the Saluda Library parking lot

at 2 p.m. to carpool to trailheads.

Call 828-749-9886. (44 Main St. Saluda, NC 28773) American Legion Post 250 Bingo, Fridays, 7 p.m., 43 Depot St., Tryon. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Smoke-free.

Columbus Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon.

Courthouse Square, Columbus.

Saluda Farmer’s Market Every Friday at 4:30 p.m., Downtown Saluda.

Tryon Farmer’s Market Every Thursday at 4 p.m., McCown Street, Tryon.

Wine Drinkers with a Reading Problem Every third Thursday at 7 p.m. at The Saluda Inn, Greenville St., Saluda.

Green Creek Farmer’s Market Every Tuesday, 5 - 7 p.m., Green Creek Fire Dept.

Music on the Porch Every Tuesday, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Original music by Brown Anderson. Food is 5 - 9 p.m. and the music plays 6 - 8 p.m.

For information, call 828-8590234. Event held at 55 Melrose Ave., Tryon.

Landrum Farmer’s Market Every Saturday 7 - 10 a.m., Trade Ave., Landrum.

Complimentary Wine Tastings at La Bouteille Wine & Beer Boutique

Every Friday, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Be introduced to a variety of wines from around the world.

For more information, call Shelley at 828-859-6473. Event held at 10 North Trade St., Tryon.

Grassroosts Art Project Every Saturday, 9:30 – 11 a.m.

Art classes held to benefit Lennie’s Fund and the Foothills Humane Society. There is no fee for the class and all materials will be provided.

Classes are held at the Holy Cross Episcopal Church on Melrose Ave. in Tryon. Call 828-899-0673 for more information.

Full Month of October Richard Nelson’s “Recent Work” Skyuka Fine Art will showcase Richard Christian Nelson's "Recent Work.” This show features Nelson's paintings as well as the drawings for which he is becoming increasingly known.

Event held at 133 N. Trade St. Tryon.

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Green Creek Heritage Festival

The 14th Annual Green Creek Heritage Festival was Saturday, Sept. 8 at the Green Creek Community Center, Inc. in Green Creek off of Coxe Rd. This Page: 1. Brandi Cordell 2. Eve Hyder and Rylee Thompson 3. Maggie Henderson and Joda Snipes 4. Samuel Calton 5. Megan Watson Opposite Page: 6. Ethan Edwards and Emery Viehman 7. Jacob Knighton 8. Antique tractors at the festival.

9. Visitors take a break from the heat of the day at the Green Creek Heritage festival.

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Choose the preferred healthcare services of

Hospice of the Carolina Foothills

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A non-profit hospice serving the Carolina Foothills for over 30 years HOSPICE CARE HOSPICE HOUSE PALLIATIVE CARE GRIEF SUPPORT

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

CAREGIVER EDUCATION

UPCOmING EVENTS Fall/Winter 2012 *

Third Thursday Chats September 20, October 18, November 15, December 20 Grief support with focused topics Volunteer Training October 29 – 31, November 1 Making a difference in your community Boots & Bling November 3, 6-10 pm A fundraising gala in support of the Hospice House

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Tree of Life Ornament Sales & Donations Tree of Life Celebration December 11, 5-6 pm Ornaments and giving opportunities are available now! *All events are held in Landrum, SC, at the Hospice House or the Hospice Thrift Barn

INFORmATION DESk

864.457.9122 sc 828.894.7000 nc HOSPICE HOUSE

It’s about living!

864.457.9100 landrum, sc www.hocf.org

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Polk County vs.

Landrum High School

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Football game held Friday night, Sept. 7. Polk County High School beat Landrum High School in overtime, 28 - 21.

1. Noah Twitty, Kaleb Kropp, Wyatt Kay, Cameron Blackwell, Coby Lee, Mason Corryn, Jackson Tipton and Qualon Sutton 2. Nathan and Emily Prince 3. Alexis McCraw and Anna Hodge

4. Wolverine mascot 5. Arnie Twitty and Tyrese Miller 6. Kristy Magnet and Wendy Owens

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7. Erika McClure, Morgan Hodge, Kayla Ravan, Moriah Cooper and Bailie Foster.

8. Ty Walters and Dana Mosseller 9. Jacob Fowler, Nicole Spanton, Drake Brown and John Hendrix.

10. Aiden Howard and Jacob Cogdell 11. Corey Ashmore, Shane Hooper and Joshua Snow 12. Catherine and Caroline Magee

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Distraction Premiere

Downtown Tryon was packed Sunday evening, Aug. 19 for a red-carpet premiere at the Tryon Theatre of “Distraction,” a TV pilot shot in Landrum.

1. Ernie Kan 2. Robbie McClure, Sarah McClure, Terri Swayze and KathrynGillie 3. Corey Messer, Jeff Prince and Melanie Jennings 4. Alexander Thomas and Brittany Bass 5. Meg Duncan, Taska Maybry and Leroy Maybry 18 L IFEINO URFO O T HIL L S. C O M

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New Harmonies

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On Saturday, Aug. 25 the New Harmonies Street Dance was held on Trade Ave. in Landrum.

The event, sponsored by the City of Landrum and the Landrum Area Business Association, featured Bruce Greene, preservationist and nationally recognized old-time fiddler, along with musicians Doug Rostick, Don Pedi and Robert Burns.

1. Elaine Collins, Judy Frazier and Becky Griffin 2. Mike Winterrowd 3. Dan Moranz 4. Kim Rawls 5. Lauren and Stephanie Winterrowd 6. Jo Rytter, left, and Marcia Moore OCT OBER 2 0 1 2

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Rotary Club of Tryon 13th Annual Shrimp/Sausage Fest

On Saturday, Sept. 15 the Rotary Club of Tryon sponsored their second Shrimpfest at Harmon Field Open Air Gym in Tryon.

1. Bud Hoffman, Lee Potter, Joann Hoffman, Sarah Potter, Caroline Brown, Alex Poe and Larry Poe 2. John McElroy and Janet Blanner 3. Lis Ballentine, Jennifer Thompson, Jean Gregonis, Vera Benson and Betty Waldowski.

4. Tyler Grooman, Tim Grooman, Karen Grooman and Jean Scott 5. Roger Traxler, Mimi Traxler, Salley Hursey, Hugh Hursey and Rita Landrum 6. John Gargiulo and Paul Zimmerman 7. Jack Casey, Yo Casey, Carole Stuenkel,Nancy Mahler and Judy Worden (sitting) 8. Bill Miller and Bill Jones 9. Janet Rutt, Carol Jackson and Cynthia Taylor 20 LIFEI NO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

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Foothills Humane Society “Happy Tails”

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FHS (Foothills Humane Society) celebrated the furry friends that have been adopted at their Dog Walk and Reunion Sept. 16 at FENCE (Foothills Equestrian and Nature Center).

1. Kathy and Max 2. John and Brew 3. Joe and Abby 4. Nancy and Bear 5. Vivian and Nash 6. Stella 7. Stuart and Moses 8. Nancy and Scavenger 9. Baxter and Jasmine

FEATURE

Tuesday School Tot Trot set for Oct. 27 Article submitted by JESSICA GREVE

Tuesday School, a nonprofit parent cooperative preschool serving the foothills area for more than 40 years, will hold its third annual Tot Trot on Saturday, Oct. 27 at Red Fox Country Club.

The event will include a 5K at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk.

The Tot Trot, which raises funds for the school, is part of the Tuesday School’s focus on encouraging two- three- and four-year-olds to lead a healthy lifestyle from a young age. Kids learn about healthy habits, and at snack times they often munch on fresh fruit and veggies, whole grain snacks and cheese or yogurt. And these little kids also have a goal to each run ten miles this school year. Miss Courtney, the new lead mixed class teacher, is keeping track of how many miles they run during each session. She said it is proving to be a fun activity for them.

For more information on the Tot Trot, visit www.tuesdayschool.org.

Tryon Fine ArTs CenTer

Visit us online at www.tryondailybulletin.com

20 12-20 13

d n a m e d r a l u p o p y Bac k b

!

Rave On! October 11 event sponsor

season sponsor

January 11 March 23 April 18

Faye Lane’s Beauty Shop Stories Steep Canyon Rangers Jeremy Kittel Band

Box office hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday, 10am-1pm 34 Melrose Avenue, Tryon, NC 828-859-8322 www.tryonarts.org

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ROGERS PARK

Rogers Park A Tryon gem

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

Rogers Park in Tryon as it looks today.

Photo by Barbara Tilly.

FEATURE

Most of the original Rogers Park committee: James Payne, Tom Foster, Ross Fox, Frank Ortiz and Dennis Durham.

Written by ROBIN EDGAR Photographs submitted by JOHN VINING

Rogers Park is one of the many gems set in the Tryon community of Polk County. A popular location for public and private events, the multi-use recreational venue on West Howard Street has a 200-seat open-air Gibbs Amphitheater, separate reception and gathering areas and public restroom facilities as well as a small creek. On any given day, a passerby might see children rollicking in the recreation area, friends picnicking in the shade or musicians finger-picking at a concert.

Although it looks as if it always belonged in this pastoral setting, framed by crab orchard flagstone walls and lush native plants, the area was an undeveloped diamond in the rough until June 1997, when an accidental meeting between James Payne and John Vining led to a shared vision to transform an overgrown ravine into a town park.

Immediately after they met, Payne contacted three of his neighbors, Dennis Durham, Tom Foster and Ross Fox, as well Tom Williamson, Frank Ortiz and Stephen Gardner and asked them to meet with him and Vining at the Tryon Health and Fitness Center to discuss their idea. From those initial meet-

ings, the group of eight men formed the Rogers Park Committee and, before long, the park was born.

“The land had been in the Rogers and Haynes families for several decades and we asked David Haynes (brother of native and longtime resident Andy Haynes), the owner at that time, if he would consider either donating the property or selling it for an affordable price to the town,” Vining said.

It took less than a month for Haynes and his wife to decide that they liked the park project idea and wanted to donate the property. When the committee suggested naming it "Haynes Park” the couple suggested "Rogers Park" as an alternative in honor of Haynes’ grandparents, Carroll and Susan Erskine Rogers, who had been very civic-minded members of the community.

In addition to the Haynes’ generosity, dozens of local residents donated time and money, joining forces with the committee to work on the property during clean-up days arranged on one Saturday each month. According to Vining, at least 15 volunteers were on hand each week, and on several • continued on page 26

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ROGERS PARK

• continued from page 25

Volunteers (young and old) help with the very first Saturday clean up (note the debris along the sidewalk).

Clean up of downed/fallen trees at the Rogers Park site.

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

Saturdays upwards of 28 volunteers, to help remove brush and debris from the two-acre site.

Local business Henson’s Inc. also stepped in and cleared the site for the amphitheater at no cost. More private donations started rolling in and, in August 1998, an anonymous donor contacted committee members about making a $200,000 donation toward the project.

“Everything you see at the park except the canvas covering for the stage and the restrooms was built with monies from local donors and an anonymous donation,” said Payne. “We were able to hire an exceptional landscape architect, Ed Lastein, who did a beautiful job with the park layout. We also contracted with Lingerfelt Landscaping and Chester Hudson Stone Masonry, who both did a great job with the development of the park.”

The volunteers began working in late 1997, and the park and amphitheater were ready for use in April 2000. Since that time, the community has enjoyed many events and activities there. The Summer Tracks Concert series, produced

by Peter Eisenbrown's Blockparty Productions in cooperation with the Town of Tryon, held at Rogers Park on Friday evenings in the summer, has earned a following from all over the region.

"Chris Tinkler and I looked at this brand new, outdoor space and thought it was the perfect spot for good music, so we put together our first season of Summer Tracks. In those early years, the train actually came through in the middle of the show,” Eisenbrown said.

Since Rogers Park opened, the town government has made several other improvements to the park, including

FEATURE

Top left: Amphitheater seating and stage about 50 percent complete. Top right: Amphitheater seating under construction. Bottom left: Landscape architect Ed Lastein (standing) directs the placement of the boulders around the amphitheater stage. Bottom right: Completed amphitheater ready for the dedication in 2000.

installing the stage covering and arch and spearheading the construction of the public restrooms. A number of the projects were paid for through grant funds, including help from The Polk County Community Foundation.

The Rogers Park project has been a

great success so far, Vining and Payne said, and there is still more to do. The committee had originally planned for an arched bridge over the creek below the reception area as well as a small trail through the woods that would follow the perimeter of the park. Recently, it has

also been suggested that a small seating space be constructed near the town sidewalk above to accommodate people who are confined to a wheelchair.

For more information about Rogers Park, go to downtowntryon.org/additional-information/rogers-park.

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RUNNING CLUB

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FEATURE

TRC (Tryon Running Club) members conquering White Oak Mountain.

Tryon Running Club Giving back one step at a time to participate in other area charity road races.

The group began to meet for runs in Cyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts January 2009. have always enjoyed the beautiful road“I’ll never forget one of our first ways through Tryon, Saluda, Columbus runs when we met up at Harmon Field and Landrum, but in the last couple of years, it seems runners have taken over. at night wearing gloves and headlamps in breezy 30-degree weather,” shares Many of the runners and walkers in Scarlette Tapp, one of the group’s the Thermal Belt belong to the Tryon founders. “We all had our own training Running Club (TRC). The club began plans and goals, but felt there was value as a social running group that was selfdescribed as “just a Facebook page” and in meeting up to run together. It was fun and social and had an element of is now a 501(c)(3) chapter of the Road accountability to it. If you told your runRunners Club of America. The move ning buddies you’d be there on a cold to become an official running club has taken the TRC from being just social to January night, you’d better show up.”

The Tryon Running Club welcomes socially responsible. The mission of the club is to “give back one step at a time” all levels of fitness—walkers, new runners and seasoned athletes. "When we by hosting charity races and offering training opportunities for TRC members meet for the track workout or group Written by SCARLETTE TAPP Photographs submitted by SCARLETTE TAPP

run, the idea is to start off together and break off into pace groups,” explains Tryon Running Club President Laura Phelps. “We all have different goals we are working on, but being out there together and supporting each other makes the run so much more fun. The best part is being able to see people accomplish goals they have set for themselves.

Being part of this group is very rewarding."

Organized running in the Polk-Landrum area is not a new phenomenon. In the early 1980s, Tom Foster led the local running movement with the Polk County Striders. Now, almost 30 years later, the Tryon Running Club is continuing that tradition by encouraging friends and neighbors to get outside and get fit.

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RUNNING CLUB • continued from page 27

For its first race, the Tryon Running Club is hosting the Tryon Half Marathon on Saturday, Nov. 17 at Harmon Field. This inaugural race, which is presented by Wells Fargo Advisors of Tryon, will offer participants a chance to enjoy a scenic mountain course without all the hills as 75 percent of it is on River Road.

The Tryon Half Marathon will donate its net proceeds to Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry. Executive Director of Outreach Carol Newton explains, “It takes endurance, dedication and focus to outrun poverty in Polk County. We are grateful to be part of this exciting, historic event.” The community has truly come together in support of this event with Tryon Federal Bank, The Mail Room, Nature’s Storehouse, Millard & Co., Tryon Daily Bulletin, Macon Bank, Malone Coaching and Express It all sponsoring the event.

Malone Coaching leads a running clinic at Harmon Field in Tryon.

The TRC has one more event on its calendar for this year—The Jingle Bell Jog in Landrum on December 15, 2012. The entry fee is a non-perishable food item that will be donated to Tryon Elementary’s Back Pack Program. Participants enjoy a hearty breakfast and

coffee after their usually chilly run for hunger.

To join in for a walk or run with the Tryon Running Club, visit them on Facebook or their website at www. tryonrunningclub.com or contact Laura Phelps at lauraph@windstream.net.

FEATURE

Tryon Presbyterian Church.

Brady’s art A life’s work Written by SAMANTHA HURST

Edifices boasting dramatic windows with full mountain views, Usonian lines and towering rock walls rise from the landscapes of Polk County and the Upstate as a testament of the lifetime architect Holland Brady poured into his work.

Still working into his 80s, Brady’s designs stand out in homes throughout Gillette Woods and at the Cliffs of

Glassy, as well as across South and North Carolina. They even dot the rest of the map as far away as Florida and Maine.

People might raise an eyebrow at the thought of someone still heading into the office every day at his age, but Brady doesn’t think anything of it.

“I’m not a bird watcher,” Brady said.

Brady is an architect.

He lives and studies the craft, plus

collects hundreds of books on the subject.

“If I weren’t drawing buildings, I’d be traveling to look at buildings,” he explained. “I don’t understand it myself but when I was 10 or 11 years old I would draw town halls and fire departments. It was just something I did.”

A mental appetite for envisioning the • continued on page 32

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31

HOLLAND BRADY

The Murray home. Opposite page: Forbes Preschool Education Center in Tryon.

• continued from page 31

angles on a building or the layout for a room grew in Brady early. By age 6, his family had moved into a home near the Pine Crest Inn. Brady said even then he was conjuring up a design for the attic.

A young Brady hadn’t even finished college when he designed his first home in Tryon – the home of Bill McCall Sr. He’d later build the doctor’s office in downtown as well.

He said while some people don’t see home designing as true architecture, he was always attracted more to individual buildings with style dictated by their building sites and surroundings.

Partner Dean Trakas said one of the most impressive homes he’s seen Brady work on was that of a home for a woman by the name of Kathy Murray. Murray had worked her way up Inside the Murray home.

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• continued on page 34

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HOLLAND BRADY

HOLLAND BRADY/HOME

Columbus Commons Shopping Center.

• continued from page 32

from life as a janitor to serving as the healthcare facility’s CFO. When she retired, she came to North Carolina seeking a picturesque landscape. She found it in a 100-acre piece of property on Piney Mountain. The home was built on a hexagonal module.

“It had to bend because the site bent with the landscape,” Trakas said of the home. “What Holland did for the Murrays was a great example of ‘Usonian’ architecture [Frank Lloyd Wright style].”

His most memorable home in South Carolina, Brady said, was a residence at the Cliffs of Glassy.

“It was built on a lot that is honestly a big rock,” he said.

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

And quite the challenge for any architect as one of the first and largest homes built in the development.

He and his brother-in-law, Lignon Flynn, who practices in Raleigh, N.C. and Wilmington, N.C., also received the “Award for Excellence in Architecture” years ago for their work on the summer camp project at the Brevard Music Center. The plaque hangs on the wall above Brady’s desk.

This body of work originated from years of careful study and powerful influence.

Brady graduated from Tryon High School and attended Clemson for one year before heading into the Army for the next three years. It was then off to the University of Michigan, where he completed his degree in 1950.

As a student at UM, Brady interned with the firm

FEATURE

Schwiekert and Melting in suburban Chicago. While there, he assisted on a number of projects but found even then that Tryon had a hold on him. At the time, the firm was working on plans for a home in Tryon for retiring architect Edward Bennett, one of the best-known city planners of the time. The prints for the home remain at the Chicago Fine Arts Institute to this day, Brady said.

“I would guarantee there isn’t another home like it anywhere in this part of the country,” he said.

While the Army took him around the world, and architecture around the country, Brady was looking to come home.

He found his way closer through Six Associates in Asheville, a prominent firm that built most of the buildings that now make up the downtown area of the city.

“I never wanted to live anywhere else or do anything else,” Brady said. “The kind of people that live here they are welleducated and appreciate the fine arts so I thought it was a good place to live and a good place to practice my work.”

Tryon had five architects actively working; quite a large number for a town of less than 2,000 people, Brady pointed out.

It’s gratifying, Brady said, to drive around and see his work

being cherished even today.

What are his favorite projects here? He’d quickly tell you one is Tryon Presbyterian Church. He still takes great pleasure in the stone walls of the building that stretch 50 feet high and are 24 inches thick, as well as the angles inside the house of worship.

Brady’s skill also drafted the plans for Forbes Preschool (once a Duke Power building) and more recently Columbus Commons.

The homes he’s designed around the area also bring him great pleasure, as they do many of the people who buy them.

“A lot of people who move to Tryon and buy a Holland Brady home want the drawings,” Trakas said. “Luckily most of those drawings [about 95 percent] have been saved. It’s fascinating to actually see them and what good condition they are in to this day.”

Brady’s passion for the craft of architecture is the reason he continues to head off to work in his hometown every morning.

“I find it interesting,” he said. “I do not understand people who spend their lives in a job that they can’t wait to retire from.”

COUNTRY LIVING

In this family room my client asked for a beige room because it was “in fashion”. She loved blue and white which was in the adjoining kitchen. We reached a compromise and used a beige and blue flowered fabric on the furniture, a beige and blue check on the London shades, a beige rug bordered in blue and painted the room a bright blue.

Color. Color. Color.

Written by GILLIAN DRUMMOND Photograph submitted by GILLIAN DRUMMOND

Color is all the rage if you read the interior design magazines.

Living rooms that were once a soft beige or white are suddenly a vibrant Mediterranean blue. So playful are the colors we see in House Beautiful or Elle Décor that we expect to see mariachi bands strolling through these featured home spreads playing “Yellow Bird.” You may ask, what is this all about? The bright colors of the ‘60’s, like The Lilly Pulitzer clothes which were so popular, are back in fashion.

My first reaction has been that, these days, interior designers are susceptible to the whims of fashion as any 7th Avenue studio. Color has certainly taken over in clothing and accessories.

Every fashion magazine is aglow with color. But look again and it becomes clear that fashion isn’t the only thing driving the lust for color. We have gone through a long period of muted or “no” color in home interiors.

In the first decade of the millennium, beige, pale grays and silvers, a hint of sand or sage were the colors that brightened the all 36 L IFEINO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

white rooms of many of the interior design world’s most famous clientele. Sharp contrast was out, subtlety was in. This didn’t mean that the traditionalists weren’t sticking to green and red or that floral linens and needlepoint pillows ever went out of fashion, it just meant that the trend was dictating white, beige and grey.

But today, in a new decade, gaiety has returned and courage, too. It takes some wit and daring to change to color as one young friend of mine did. After a trip to Paris, where she visited an apartment in the fashionable Champs des Mars neighborhood, she rushed home to paint her study the same color she had seen under Paris skies. It was a bright cerulean blue set off by the whipped cream woodwork of her French friend’s Directoire home. It worked! She was fortunate that her choice was successful. I often warn my clients to be careful of what inspired them while traveling when it comes to decoration. What looked great in Bali or Denmark may have a very different look in Polk County.

It is important to remember that what is critical about color is light. That’s why testing color choices is so important to creating a beautiful room.

COLUMN

If a color you fell in love with on your trip to India is going to work in your home in Landrum, it’s important that you follow a few simple rules: 1. Choose, at least, two paint colors that are as close as possible to the color you want.

2. Ask your painter to paint these samples (a pint of each color) on the wall of the room in floor to ceiling, three-footwide strips.

3. To make sure that the light doesn’t distort in other areas of the room, paint matching strips of color in another location (close to a window or near the darkest corner).

4. Remember, one coat of color isn’t the same as two or three. Depending on what color you’ve chosen and what density you want, ask the painter to add a coat or two of paint to your sample strips.

Having spent my early childhood in England, I often wondered why the rich cream white used on architectural woodwork on the exterior of English houses doesn’t really work in the United States. I’ve discovered the reason. The light of English skies is usually grey and reflects perfectly on the high gloss of the white trim making the whole house look brighter. We don’t need to use high gloss here because we are blessed with sunshine 95 percent of the time year round.

I like to recommend a white called White Dove by Benjamin Moore, especially for woodwork and ceilings which I always match if they are white. It has many of the qualities I think are essential to a good white paint. It is clear, doesn’t yellow with age but has a warmth that is complimentary to most colors. If a room is painted all white, it works very well applied “flat” or “eggshell” on the walls. And, by all means, stay away from Linen White. Painters love it because it covers in one coat, but it will look beige-yellow in a year and keep darkening the longer you live with it.

It’s important to know that all paint takes time to “cure.”

Even Latex or Waterborn paints, will take a good month. For good clear, true color never use the paints which have a primer mixed in with the paint. It may cover in fewer coats but you are sacrificing the clarity of the color. This means that you won’t see the true color for some time after the paint is applied. Since I’ve always been addicted to color, I’m happy to say that I believe you can do whatever you want to do with it as long as you do it with taste. Also, it should reflect who you are. It would be a great mistake to paint a room red if you’re not just passionate about the color!

When I moved to Tryon I bought a house that has given me the opportunity to put my ideas about color to the test. In my living room, instead of the white I found on the walls I have painted them a beautiful buttercup yellow. The adjoining dining room is painted the same yellow, at the moment, but I have picked out an Oriental gold, blue and green wallpaper to bring

the outside in and also marry the Oriental rug and blue and white Canton china I have collected for years. On the windows, which have white solar shades to protect my table and rug from the sun, there will also be a shaped pelmet covered in matching wallpaper to unite the view with the room.

My bedroom was painted a soft, warm beige when I moved into the house just so that the walls had paint on them. I needed time to get used to this room which is much smaller and darker than my Connecticut bedroom. I have two blue and white Chinese rugs, a gift from my parents, so I think I will use one lovely blue and white linen damask print as the single fabric for the whole room. Curtains, ruched onto a rod that will hang from just under the crown molding, give the room the appearance of more height. A chair and ottoman will be covered in the same print as well as pillow shams on the bed. My quandary at the moment is do I cover the walls with the same fabric or paint the walls a beautiful turquoise or pink, so pretty a contrast with the blue and white damask.

Whatever I do, I’ll stick to my belief that there’s only one cardinal rule about color, don’t follow trends but don’t play it safe either. That’s the surest way to a boring room!

Gillian Drummond has her design firm Drummond House Co. in Tryon.

You can see her website at www.drummondhouseco.com or reach her at gillian@gilliandrummond.com.

Upstairs [Artspace]

a contemporary gallery in the heart of historic downtown Tryon

Presenting a major national exhibit curated by Reni Gower, a leading expert in the field of encaustic painting from Virginia Commonwealth University

CONTEMPORARY ENCAUSTIC 9.21.12 to 11.17.12

OPENING RECEPTION – September 22, 5 to 8 p.m.

WALK AND TALK – September 22, 4 to 5 p.m.

INTRODUCTION TO ENCAUSTIC WORKSHOP – October 12 and 13 ADVANCED ENCAUSTIC DEMO/WORKSHOP – November 10 BEESWAX AND THE BEEKEEPING PROCESS – October 6 U PC OM ING EVENTS

Holiday Gift Bazaar Upstairs’ annual gift marketplace fills the gallery with hand-crafted art treasures to highlight your holiday season

Upstairs Artspace

49 S Trade Street Tryon, NC 28782

828 859 2828

www. upstairsartspace.org

FOOD FOR FOODIES

That’s Agritainment!

Celebrating local agriculture Written by CAROL LYNN JACKSON Photographs submitted

Working the land may be their true first love but farmers and agricultural-based communities also admit that harvest time can have a full-fletched revenue season of its own. Keeping a family-farm afloat can often mean making entertainment of your agriculture.

Life in our foothills has plenty of good old-fashioned family fun this month, the kind that brings everyone outdoors among animals and nature. Fall festivals, pumpkin patches, hayrides, haunted barns, petting zoos, corn mazes and autumn feasts are everywhere! What kids read about in storybooks or see pictures of in classrooms, they now get to experience. Such enthusiasm helps hundreds of farmers thrive when profit margins from crop harvests start to narrow.

An estimated 62 million people visited farms in 2011, the latest figures available from the North American Farmers Direct Marketing Association and annual agri-tourism revenues are on the rise. And although there are a few Christmas attractions, such

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

as reindeer and sleigh rides on tree farms, the weeks leading up to Halloween and Thanksgiving are the peak season for agritourism In larger farming regions of the country, like the Midwest where the phenomenon of agri-tourism is booming, dairy’s for example also offer baseball batting cages, miniature-golf and of course, homemade ice cream. Bakeries, restaurants and gift shops are often interstate exit attractions for large scale production farms to sell value-add or tempt tourists further out to the • continued on page 38 This page: 2011 Farm to Fork supper held at the Mill Spring Agricultural Center in Mill Spring. This year's festival will be held Sunday, Oct. 13. Photo

by Gwen Ring. Opposite page: Top: 2011 Columbus Farm Festival. This year's festival will be held Sunday, Oct. 6. Photo submitted. Bottom: Slow Food enthusiasts file down the buffet table taking samples of a wide variety of dishes prepared with local and regional ingredients. Slow Food Foothills community will meet Sunday, Oct. 28 to celebrate the end of season harvest.

Photo by Erik Olsen.

FEATURE COLUMN

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FOOD FOR FOODIES

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farm. In North Carolina, several years back, with the help of the state agri-tourism office, a five-generation family farm turned a former tobacco field in Fuquay-Varina, 15 miles southwest of Raleigh, into a corn maze shaped like NASCAR driver Scott Riggs' car.

Most tourists in these parts visit family farms for a taste of country life, not completely unfamiliar yet, but somewhat fading from many of our personal experiences. Lynn Sprague, Polk Agricultural Economic Development Director says, “October is Farm Month in our foothills. There is plenty to come out and do and experience every weekend.” That list of events includes the Columbus Farm Festival, Saturday Oct. 6, downtown Columbus. Enjoy an exciting day filled with family activities celebrating the farming heritage and traditions of Polk County.

Bring the family and enjoy local food, pressed cider, local crafters and farmers, antique tractors, animals, and more! There is the Third Annual Mill Spring Ag Center Farm to Fork Supper, Saturday, Oct. 13 in Mill Spring. The event is the largest annual fundraiser for the Ag Center and has quickly become an annual social highlight for the community. Following tradition, the evening will take place on the front lawn of the Ag Center under an old magnolia tree and include local chefs, music, silent

auction, raffle, and more. On Sunday, Oct. 28 meet the Slow Food Foothills community and celebrate the end of season harvest on LEAP Farm in Mill Spring. This is a fundraiser for Slow Food Foothills and includes a potluck, local beers and wines, farm tours and growing tips, and families and neighbors gathering on picnic blankets in a large meadow with old trees overlooking farm fields and nearing a full moon. For more information on these events, visit www.polkcountyfarms.org and www.slowfoodfoothills.org.

There is a very fun website that provides a page for every state in the U.S. (as well as six other countries) listing the pumpkin patches, pick your own (PYO) Pumpkin farms, hay rides, corn mazes, fall festivals, Halloween festivals and events by county. It’s also a good marketing resource for agri-tour based events and for visitors to share their experiences. And, best of all, it’s free! You will find lots in Rutherford, Henderson, Transylvania, and Buncombe counties. And you can help rate the events, once you’ve attended. Want to do a pumpkin patch fund raiser for your church or organization? You will also find listed on this site some farms who have pumpkins, both locally and to ship nationally for your fund raiser! Or if you wholesale pumpkins you want to ship in October, the site owner encourages you to write. Visit www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org. Now that’s Agritainment!

FEATURE

Cardinal flower and spill area above second pond.

Blue Wall Preserve Soul and senses open to nature’s gift Written by LENETTE ACREE SPROUSE Photographs by LENETTE ACREE SPROUSE

There are few better ways to drench one’s soul and senses in nature’s gifts than the Blue Wall Preserve. This 3-mile stretch of the Palmetto Trail, nestled quietly behind Lake Lanier, offers a feast for eyes and ears.

With the closing of the car door, the trekker’s ear takes in a cacophony of songs and sounds while the eye takes in the sights on the edges of this escarpment. A path meanders from parking lot to rock gateway sign, announcing • continued on page 42

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BLUE WALL PASSAGE

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the beginning of more than 11,000 acres of preserved and protected lands.

Owned by the Nature Conservancy since 1997 and the City of Landrum, this portion of the Palmetto Trail’s 425-plus miles is for foot traffic only. Designated by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area, the Blue Wall Preserve is a favorite among birders, who have recorded sightings of more than 110 different bird species, including the black-throated blue warbler, American goldfinch and scarlet tanager.

The trail begins innocently, lined majestically with hardwoods and accompanied by the backdrop babbling of creekside streams.

Following a slow incline, this moderate footpath opens to the first of twin ponds and some of the most spectacular views found of Hogback Mountain. Towering above at 3,209 feet, this looming giant reflects picture-perfect in mirrored pond waters on still days.

Continuing past to the second pond, one has the option to take a tame waterfall loop to the right. After rainy periods, waterfall sounds can be heard many steps before the 20-30 foot slipping flow comes into view. Drier times might offer only a trickle and the backside views of yet another picturesque pond. The green salamander and other rare aquatic animals have been observed in this corner of the trail.

Biologically diverse, the area is dotted with an abundance of wildflowers and rare plants. Cardinal flower floats atop tall stalks through the fall. Hearts-a-busting, with its unusual pink red pea, nut-like blossoms, showy grass and sedges all invite a spectrum of butterflies. In spring, Cuteby’s trillium, sweet Betsy trillium and showy orchid are easily spotted, as well as an array of other hard to find floral and fauna delights.

Rounding the second pond and leaving the Nature Conservancy’s portion of the preserve, the trail narrows and crosses into Landrum’s watershed.

Older forest canopies over an increasingly steeper ascent that becomes an aggressive workout for the best of hikers.

• continued on page 44 This page: Hiker Michael Sprouse enjoying the trail just before it narrows.

Opposite page: Top: First pond, with view of Hogback, Vaugh's Gap and Rocky Spur. Bottom left: Hawk. Bottom right: Trailhead.

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BLUE WALL PASSAGE

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This section, labeled strenuous for its swift inclines, features oaks, hickories, eastern hemlocks and many other species unique to Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment.

Hikers traveling this last mile pass traces of an old sawmill that could invite a water break with views of a now less foreboding Hogback Mountain and Rocky Spur. The last half-mile of this trail is grueling, with an even stiffer incline, and rewards those who trek here with vast views of the valley below.

This portion ends at Vaughn’s Gap, the saddle between Hogback and Rocky Spur. From here, one can continue traveling another 6.6 miles on to the Poinsett Reservoir Passage or return down the mountain with equally challenging steps.

The Blue wall Preserve is open during daylight hours.

Hunting, camping, bicycling and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the preserve. Leashed dogs are welcome.

More information about the Blue Wall Preserve, directions and a bird checklist for the area can be found on the City of Landrum’s website, www.cityoflandrum.com/, and S.C. Nature Conservancy’s site, www.nature.org/wherewework/ northamerica/states/southcarolina/.

Kristen Austin of the Nature Conservancy suggests hikers “bring water, good walking shoes and a rain coat when walking the trail.”

“The preserve has had sightings of a variety of wildlife such as deer, turkey, black bear and bobcat,” she said. “One sees much more when traveling quietly.”

Austin said her favorite section is the last mile in winter, after the leaves have fallen as, she says, “the views are spectacular.”

“The Blue Wall Preserve is a great recreational area, especially the twin pond area with its scenic views,” Austin said. “There is something for all levels of hikers, from slightly moderate walking to extremely strenuous uphill hiking.”

Wilderness presents itself in all shapes, from the loud drumming pileated woodpecker to the smallest ringneck snake in these woods. Step with caution, tread lightly and leave no trace. With these precautions, this area will be “preserved and protected for present and future generations,” as the Blue Wall sign requests.

Top: Eastern Pondhawk. Middle: American Goldfinch. Bottom: Five-lined skink.

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

FEATURE

Blue Wall Passage of the Palmetto Trail - Section 2 85

87 000m.E

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Map created with TOPO! Pro for ArcGIS® ®©2007 National Geographic www.topopro.com

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TNC Blue Wall Preserve

Greenville Watershed

1075 ' 860 '

From I-26 take Exit 1, S.C. Hwy. 14, west toward Landrum. Go north on Hwy. 176 just after railroad tracks.

Travel 2 miles and look left for the entrance to Lake Lanier on Lakeshore Drive.

Cross over the bridge and follow West Lakeshore Drive around the lake until you come to Dug Hill Road.

Turn and stay left; the parking lot will be on your left.

Blue Wall Passage - Lake Lanier to Vaughns Gap Blue Wall Passage

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©2012 Palmetto Conservation Foundation

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Parking

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we LIVE here. we WORK here. we SHOP here. we PLAY here.

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45 L IFE INO URFO O T HI L L S. C O M

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QUADRUPLETS

Left to right: Jeffrey, Sarah, Brianna and Rudy Gray.

Quadruplets Four new first-graders from same family Written by LEAH JUSTICE Photographs by LEAH JUSTICE

A new family in town has Tryon Elementary School seeing quadruple.

First-graders Sarah, Jeffrey, Rudy and Brianna Gray started school in August and are the first quadruplets in the area.

Pat and Tracy Gray moved to the Lynn area this summer from the Winston-Salem, N.C. area after Pat accepted a job at P.F. Chang's in Asheville, N.C. The Grays said they were looking for houses in the Asheville

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

area and discovered that Polk County Schools are among the best in the state.

“The school made a big difference,” Tracy said, “then we found a great house and a great school.”

The Grays purchased a home through Myrna Viehman with Foothills Realty in Tryon.

Of the Tryon area, Pat said so far they love the Tryon area.

“It’s beautiful, it’s small, it’s perfect,” she said.

O CTO BER 2 0 1 2

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FEATURE

The Grays decided years ago to have children and had to take fertility drugs.

“We wanted to have kids,” Pat said, “and we sure did.”

Pat also has a 15-year-old son.

The quads turned 6 years old on March 31, 2012. The boys are identical and the girls are fraternal. They were delivered at 28 weeks, with Rudy weighing 1 lb. 3 oz., Jeffrey weighing 2 lbs. 3 oz., Brianna weighing 2 lbs. 5 oz. and Sarah weighing 2 lbs. 7 oz., all totaling under 10 lbs.

Jeffrey, Brianna and Sarah came home after eight weeks and Rudy (named after the movie because the Grays knew he was going to be small) came home on Tracy’s due date.

Tracy said during the pregnancy, she was told at first they would be triplets.

“I thought, three is not so bad,” she said. “Three is do-able.”

Then she had another ultrasound and the doctors told her they were mistaken, there would be four babies.

“I had an anxiety attack every ultrasound after that because I was scared they would find another one,” Tracy said.

The Grays are adjusting to their new home in the Tryon area.

The quads were split in classrooms this year, with Jeffrey and Sarah in Diane Guffey’s first grade class and Rudy and Brianna in

“I had an anxiety attack every ultrasound after that because I was scared they would find another one.”

- Tracy Gray

Traci Jones’ first grade class.

Tracy said it was funny when she called Tryon Elementary School and told them she needed to enroll new first graders.

“She said how many?” Tracy said.

“I said four. She said ‘oh my.’”

According to mathematical probabilities, the estimated odds in the United States of having quadruplets (of any zygosity) are 1 in 571,787 pregnancies. (statistic from MOST, Mothers' of Supertwins.)

HISTORICAL FEATURE

An Inglorious End Written by JOE EPLEY Photographs submitted

had a royal commission. But the actions of farmers and tradesmen in Massachusetts on April 19-20, 1775 changed all that. In Anna Mills sat on her front veranda, knitting a shawl, waiting Tryon County (of which Polk County was then a part), the militia anxiously as countless wives over the centuries have done, for split bitterly after 50 prominent citizens signed the Tryon Resolves news of a husband who had gone off to war. Life seemed peace- condemning the British for “the unprecedented, barbarous and ful in the valley where the Green River gushed from the Blue bloody actions committed by British troops on our American Ridge Mountains. brethren near Boston” and pledged to “faithfully unite ourselves Her husband, Colonel Ambrose Mills, 58, had brought her and under the most solemn ties of religion, honor and love to our their first born to this pristine wilderness near the foot of White county, firmly to resist force by force.” Officers who supported Oak Mountain more than a decade before. He built a stately the move for Independence resigned their Royal commissions house called Valle Temp (Temple of the Valley) and became one and formed a new militia called “Liberty Men.” of the most influential men in the area. Over the next 11 years, Mills, then a captain, was appalled by the action and remained they had six other children born in the two-story clapboard home. fiercely loyal to his native England. He refused to support acts Other than a few Indian raids along the Pacolet and Broad of rebellion. The following June, a band of Liberty Men arrested River valleys, there were few call-ups of the militia in which he him for being “one of the greatest enemies of our peace in Tryon

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

COLUMN

Opposite page: Nine Loyalist partisans, including their militia commander Colonel Ambrose Mills, were hanged in torch-lit executions after a day long trial in northern Rutherford County seven days following the battle at Kings Mountain. Illustration © by Louis Glanzman and published in the National Park Service book “With Fire and Sword.”

Used with permission. This page: Ambrose Mills III stands in front of his ancestral home built around 1770 by his namesake, Colonel Ambrose Mills. The house was sold out of the Mills family in 1926 and moved to a location on River Road near Tryon, where it was modernized without destroying much of the original wood and design features.

Today, it is called Blackberry Hill and is the home of Phil and Marcia Burrus. Photos submitted.

County” and for being “in the Indian Nations.” Tightly bound, he was taken to the nearest jail, more than 100 miles east in Salisbury where he remained until September when he was freed after taking the oath of allegiance to the new government of North Carolina.

In 1776, Valle Temp was occupied for a week by a Whig militia company under command of Captain John Barber until they were satisfied the Royalist Mills “would behave himself.”

Although the Revolutionary War was being fought far from the Carolina frontier, Mills continued to quietly recruit supporters of the crown and secretly organize a Loyalist militia, eventually becoming a colonel.

He was captured again in 1778 while trying to recruit 500 Loyalists to go to Georgia and Florida to fight for the British. Fortunately, he was rescued before reaching the Salisbury jail, where he would have been tried for treason and violating his parole. After the state legislature split Tryon County into Rutherford and Lincoln, both named for Patriot generals, Mills refused to recognize the newly created counties.

The tone of war changed along the Carolina frontier in 1780 when the British Army invaded South Carolina and took back control of the state. Mills was the senior militia commander in Patrick Ferguson’s Loyalist corps that invaded Rutherford County.

He campaigned with Ferguson after the Loyalists drove the rebel militia out of the area and over the mountains. The British commander seemed to have pacified the region.

Anna last saw her husband around Oct. 2, when Ferguson began moving his force eastward toward Charlotte, which was then occupied by the British Army. Three days later, she heard that a force of more than 1,500 Liberty Men, many from over the mountains, had camped just a few miles down the Green River at McDaniel’s Ford (now called Alexander Ford). It was there that

they changed course in their chase after Ferguson’s Loyalists.

Now, more than a week later, a rider came with devastating news: Ferguson’s command had been destroyed on Oct. 7 at a place called Kings Mountain, about 40 miles to the east. Although more than a fourth of the Loyalists were killed or badly wounded, Ambrose Mills survived. He was held prisoner with more than 600 other king’s men and marched to the county seat at Gilbert Town (two miles north of present day Rutherfordton), about 10 miles northeast of her home.

Anna’s stepson, Major William Mills, was left on the battlefield with wounds in his shoulder and heel. William, who was about Anna’s age, was from Ambrose’s first marriage, which ended when William’s mother was killed by Indians in South Carolina.

Upon hearing the news about her husband, Anna made arrangements for the servants, and possibly William’s wife who lived nearby, to take care of her small children. She carried her suckling baby, Anna, with her and took a carriage to Gilbert Town where she learned the Liberty Men had taken their prisoners to Biggerstaff ’s plantation, another eight miles further north, close to Flint Hill (now called Cherry Mountain).

Arriving at the home of Aaron Biggerstaff, one of her husband’s company commanders, who was mortally wounded at Kings Mountain, she encountered a huge crowd of armed, surly men surrounding about 50 prisoners, including Colonel Mills.

Anna was terrified by the open hostility against the Loyalists as they were tried for a wide variety of crimes.

Charges against Colonel Mills included instigating Cherokee attacks against settlers. He was accused of arresting a Rowan County man named Benjamin Merrill for his part in the Regulator movement during 1771 and turning him over to Governor William Tryon, who ordered Merrill hanged and then drawn and • continued on page 50

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HISTORICAL FEATURE

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quartered. Colonel Andrew Hampton, commander of the Rutherford County Liberty Men, also expressed hard feelings against Mills because Mills led a raid that killed Hampton’s son Noah two months earlier at Earle’s Ford on the Pacolet River.

In all, about 30 Tories were convicted on Oct. 14 and condemned to hang that same evening. There were no appeals. Anna watched in horror as Ambrose, his arms tied behind him, was roughly hoisted up on a horse. Two other Tories, Captain James Chitwood, 61, and Captain Robert Wilson were treated similarly.

The three horses were then led to a large oak tree, where three ropes, each with a noose, draped from a sturdy limb. After Mills again proclaimed his allegiance to the king, the horses were pulled away, leaving their riders dangling until strangled to death.

Controlling the horse carrying the colonel was William Merrill, brother of the man Mills was accused of capturing nine years earlier.

Six other men were hanged in groups of three before the Patriots called an end to the executions, giving a reprieve to the other condemned. Six of the nine who were hanged were from Rutherford County which then included Polk County.

As the Patriot Army bedded down for the night, Anna sat on the ground with her baby under the body of her dead husband.

It soon began to rain, but she refused to leave him. She probably paid scant attention to the victorious army as it marched its prisoners in the dismal dawn hours past the rain-soaked corpses and on northward to Quaker Meadows near present day Morganton.

After the Patriots left the area, the bodies were cut down and, with the exception of James Chitwood, buried near the tree. Chitwood’s plantation was just a few miles away and his family moved him to the family cemetery there. Over time, the graves of the other eight have become lost. It is not known why Anna did not take her husband’s body back to the Green River.

Ten years later, Anna remarried. She died in 1805.

As the Revolutionary War ended, the Rutherford County Court confiscated the land of all known local Tories who took up arms against the independence movement. However, a higher

court in North Carolina ruled the confiscation illegal and the Mills property was returned to the fam-ily.

William Mills recovered from his wounds at Kings Mountain and made his way back home.

However, with public animosity against Tories at a fever pitch in the area, he fled through Mills Gap and hid out in the caves near present day Edneyville in Joe Epley’s historical novel, “A Passel of Hate,” contains more Henderson County. In those days, it was still Cherokee land. details about the life of Colonel The following year, William Ambrose Mills.

Merrill was rousted from his bed in the middle of the night by a group of men allegedly led by Major Mills. He was bound, thrown over a horse and taken from his home in Rowan County to the hanging tree at Biggerstaff ’s, the same spot where he participated in the execution of Ambrose Mills. The son avenged his father’s death by hanging Merrill and leaving his body swinging.

William Mills, like his half brothers and sisters, became respected citizens of the area, although William moved over the mountains in 1788 and settled in Buncombe County. Mills River is named for him.

Descendants of Ambrose Mills played a major role in the creation of Polk County. Dr. Columbus Mills was a state senator and pushed through the formation of the county in 1855. The town of Columbus was named in his honor.

Today, another descendant, Ambrose Mills III of Tryon, has served as chair of the Polk County Economic Development Commission and led the effort for the county to obtain the land at Alexander’s Ford and to have it certified as part of the Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail. As with past generations, he and his kin are keeping alive the community spirit left by their Tory ancestor.

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

© 2011 Allstate Insurance Company

FEATURE

Lessons on the court Carolina Junior Tennis program Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photographs by LEAH JUSTICE

For several years, many area children have participated in Cary Davenport’s Carolina Junior Tennis program, learning how to play competitive tennis while developing selfesteem, the ability to focus and other life skills.

“To see children progress, gain confidence, interact with other children and improve their skills is most rewarding,” Davenport said. “To see the smiles on their faces when they do something well and experience the joy that it brings to • continued on page 52 Above: Front row: Mopi Rodriguez, Caroline Brown and Parker Brown. Row 2: Sydney Housinger, Frances Padgett, Katie Burke, Lucy Standhal, Alexis Phillips, Katlyn Green, Virginia Rostic and Ainsleigh Bragg. Row 4: Harry Reed, Edgar Rodriguez, Joey Vollmer, Sophie Standhal, Rebecca Edmonton and Clay Nichols. Right: Virginia Rostick.

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• continued from page 51

the family is most rewarding. For me, the friendships that I have formed with the children and parents are the most gratifying aspects of the program.�

Davenport and his wife, Bridget, moved to Campobello from Northbrook, Ill. in 1994. Over the next several years they raised two children and became familiar with all of the sports offerings in this community.

While in Chicago, they owned and operated four athletic clubs, one of which was a 10-court indoor tennis club with an active tennis program featuring 14 tennis pros. During their time in Chicago, Davenport was also very involved with the Chicago District Tennis Association and competitive junior tennis. It was this experience that led him to form the Carolina Junior Tennis program.

The Carolina Junior Tennis program is a comprehensive tennis teaching and training program created to serve the families of Polk, Greenville, Spartanburg and Hendersonville counties. The program is conducted at O.P. Earle Elementary School in Landrum, which has a four-court tennis facility. Dr. Ron Garner, District One Schools supervisor, has also given permission for the program to use any of the tennis facilities at other District One schools.

Davenport has developed a copyrighted program for children ages 4 to 18 that teaches children how to hit a tennis ball properly while having fun This page: Top: Julia Griffin and Kearns White. Bottom: Virginia Rostic, Sydney Housinger, Hannah Maybry, Frances Padgett and Alexis Phillips. Opposite page: Top left: Molly Foxworth, Kearns White and Julie Griffin. Top right: Edgar Rodriguez with 4-year-olds Mopi Rodriguez, Caroline Brown, Parker Bowen and Coach Cary Davenport. Bottom left: Julie Griffin, Elsie Morrah Padgett, Molly Foxworth, Sydney Housinger and Hannah Mabry. Back row: Edgar Rodriguez, Harry Reed, Joey Vollmer, Ainsleigh Bragg and Kearns White. All are state-ranking players. Bottom right: Alexis Phillips.

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

FEATURE

and getting fit at the same time. Beginners are taught using several linked components such as a soft foam ball, child-sized racquets and a small court.

Children learn "ball magic" games followed by racquet-handing skills and then movement drills.

"There are hundreds of drills that children perform through a series of progressive activities," Davenport said.

But Davenport said Carolina Junior Tennis is more than teaching chil-

dren how to hit a tennis ball. He said the program creates a tennis training environment that teaches children not only how to hit a ball but also how to play competitive tennis. The children in Coach Davenport's program are encouraged to join the United States Tennis Association in both North and South Carolina so they can play competitive age groups in both states.

Children earn points at each level and obtain a state ranking. Children who

wish to play at the college level and earn a scholarship are chosen from the national ranking pool, followed by the southern level of players and then their state rankings.

Carolina Junior Tennis was approved by the U.S. Tennis Association to host two sanctioned tournaments.

The children compete and earn ranking points.

"This is an important part of the • continued on page 55

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Connor Brown, Hannah Maybry, Grace Bayse and Colin Burke.

Molly Fosworth and Joey Vollmer.

• continued from page 53

program because it brings players from the outside areas in to compete and gives legitimacy to the program," said Davenport.

The training takes place in the form of clinics.

These clinics last one hour for the younger children and up to two hours for the older experienced players.

Clinics promote fitness movement component skills, instruction, multiple drills, and fun games that all the players enjoy.

According to Davenport, the most important element in the program is the positive learning and playing environment that has been created to foster childrens' self-esteem. Players attain a high level of fitness over the course of a year and develop self-confidence in learning how to train and focus, he said.

“This process teaches children how to prepare properly for activity and how to conduct themselves to get the most out of training. This is a life skill that can be applied to any sports or activity in which the child wishes to excel,” Davenport said. “[My son] Jesse really found a home with Carolina Junior Tennis.… I believe that this environment has been the key to molding Jesse into the nice, respectful, healthy athletic person he is now,” said Kim Ewing.

Amy Housinger, whose daughter, Sydney, has participated in the program said she agrees.

“Coach Cary has been one of the most influential positive role models for [Sydney]. He has taught her it is okay to be competitive in sports and other aspects of her life as long as you have good sportsmanship and a positive attitude.”

Assisting Davenport is Edgar Rodriguez, an internationally ranked tennis player, who was ranked 65th in the world as a junior player. Rodriguez played all the Junior Slam events, including Wimbledon. He played two years on the professional tour and is finishing his college degree at the University of South Carolina Upstate.

For further information about the program contact Cary Davenport at 864-415-8775 or www.carolinajuniortennis.com.

PET TRAINING

Pet training techniques Written by PAT THORNE

Q A

How can I stop my dog from constantly barking at everybody and everything that goes by my house when I am at home.

My neighbors tell me she is quiet when I am not at home?

When your dog barks at strange things she is doing her job. If you get aggravated and yell at your dog you are actually joining in with her. You’re saying you are worried, too, by "barking" back. The next time your dog barks at something, thank the dog. Say, "Thanks, Buddy," and let it be. If she continues barking then get up and have a look. If all is well, thank the dog again. If your dog continues to bark, make the decision as the leader to communicate to your dog that you are capable of handling

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

Pat Thorne and her dog.

this. Give your dog a time out in a crate or bathroom to remove the dog from the pack. This pack may consist of only you and your dog. The last thing a dog wants is to be separated from its pack. Dogs instinctively know they cannot survive without their pack. This is the best way to communicate to them that you are a responsible decisionmaker. In time, your dog will trust you to make decisions and will stop barking with a simple "thank you" for a job well done.

Q A

How can I keep my dog off of my furniture?

Simply never allow it. Three times and you’re out. If your dog jumps up on the couch, for instance, simply remove him without a word. The second time he jumps up, remove him again. The third time, give a timeout. An effective time-out is removing your dog from the sight of the rest of your pack. This only needs to be a few minutes. Do not let your dog out until he or she is quiet. Do not speak or look at your dog upon letting him out. After you repeat this a few times, your dog will get the message.

The key is to be consistent and calm.

Q

I just rescued a dog from the shelter and he just hides under the table. No amount of coaxing or treats will help him to relax.

How can I best help him to adjust?

A

Ignore him. It's human nature to want to console and coddle your new friend but this will only make him more insecure and nervous. Give your dog a minimum of three days to acclimate to all the new sights and smells of his new environment. Let him come to you when he is ready. Patience is the key.

Remember this little guy has more than likely been let down several times before he came to you and is short on trust at this point. Give him space, time and respect and in time he will come to trust you. You will not regret the time invested in this relationship. These dogs are the most thankful and devoted companions you will ever have the joy of experiencing. If you coddle and try to reassure him he will only see this as weakness. He needs a strong calm leader more than anything else

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Your resource for local equestrian events and happenings

APPOINTMENTS Sue Mullen, of Landrum, returned from Rachael Tessmer ofAuburn, LandrumCalif. where she completed develops the Wayfarer the Riding 100-mile Tevis Cup endurance ride School in Flat Rock,from N.C.Tahoe to Auburn. Photo by Bill where students, such as the Gore.

See page 68. one pictured, can take lessons at any level. See pg. 64 for full story. Photo submitted.

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

APPOINTMENTS

Equestrian Events Natalie Iryshe makes donation to TROT The Hay Lady, Natalie Iryshe, left, recently donated hay to Therapeutic Riding of Tryon (TROT). Program Director Sandy Sibley, right, accepted the donation. “We truly appreciate Natalie’s support of TROT,” said Sibley. “We couldn’t carry out our mission without the backing of the community.”

TROT is a program of the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center that serves individuals with physical, cognitive, developmental and emotional challenges.

Its fall session is under way.

For more information on TROT, call 828-859-9021. To contact the Hay Lady, call 828-289-4230.

SEPTEMBER Sept. 25 Harmon Hopefuls at Harmon Field.

For more information, contact Noreen Cothran at 864-457-3557.

Sept. 28 Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Schooling event at FENCE (Foothills Equestrain Nature Center). For more information, contact Laura Weicker at 828-859-6109.

Sept. 28 Dr. Stephen O’Grady will present a program on the equine foot Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. at the Mill Spring Ag Center. In 2003, O’Grady was inducted into the International Equine Veterinarians Hall of Fame. RSVPs are required. For more information, call 828-894-2627.

OCTOBER Oct. 3 Rutherford Outdoor Coalition - Eques.

Div. Mtg. For more information, contact Kimberly Olson at kolson.crminsurance@gmail.com.

Oct. 13 Windridge Farm XC Schooling at Windridge Farm, Rutherfordton, N.C. For more information, contact Alicia Henderson windridge@ioa.com.

Oct. 4 - 6 N.C. State Walking Horse Show at WNC Ag Center in Fletcher, N.C.

Oct. 13 – 14 Progressive Show Jumping Oktoberfest Horse Show at FENCE.

Oct. 6 FRC Cross Country Schooling at FENCE. For more information, contact: Margo Savage at 828-863-4924.

Oct. 14 Western Carolina Hunter Pace and Trail Ride, Tryon Hounds. Location TBD. For more information, visit ww.wchpace.org.

Oct. 6 Windridge Horse Trials at Windridge Farm in Rutherfordton, N.C. For more information, contact Alicia Henderson at windridge@ioa.com.

Oct. 20 - 21 BRHJA Classic. For more information, contact: Lewis Pack 828-894-2721.

Sept. 29-30 Carolina Carriage Club Pleasure Show will be held at Harmon Field. For more information contact Ned Frybarger at dartsec@windstream.net.

Oct. 12 - 14 PSJ Hunter/Jumper Octoberfest at FENCE. For more information, contact: psjshows@aol.com or 803-649-3505.

Sept. 29 - 30 Tryon Riding and Hunt Club 37th Annual Horse Trials at FENCE. For more information, contact Laura Weicker at 828-859-6109.

Oct. 13 Fall Foliage Ride in the Gowensville area, sponsored by FENCE. For more information, visit www.fence.org or call (828) 859-9021.

Oct. 27 Harmon Hopefuls at Harmon Field.

For more information, contact Noreen Cothran at 864-457-3557.

Oct 28 2012 - Green Creek Hounds Halloween.

Location TBD. Visit www.wchpace.org for more information.

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APPOINTMENTS MINNICK FAMILY

The Minnick family. From left to right, Morgan, Pam, Kasey and Nelson Minnick.

Fox Hunting The Minnick Family

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

APPOINTMENTS FEATURE

Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photographs by ERIK OLSEN

Pam Minnick began foxhunting in 1968 with the Yadkin Valley Hounds in the Statesville, N.C. area. She was homeschooling her two daughters, then 6 and 10 at the time, and she used foxhunting as their physical education class. One girl hunted on Wednesdays and the other on Saturdays. They both shared a reliable and steadfast pony.

Shortly after that, Minnicks moved to this area and found a new foxhunting family. Tryon Hounds was the right fit.

The Minnicks said the huntsman and masters were very welcoming. Minnick began hunting with them on a horse new to the - Pam Minnick hunt field, which she said was quite interesting. With the tutelage of Louise Hughston, Griffin soon became a fixture in the hilltopper hunt field.

"I now hunt a Shire/Thoroughbred cross that has little experience in the hunt field," said Minnick. "Patience and perseverance has paid off, and he is a great field master's horse now.

I lead the hilltopper field with him, which is the non-jumping group. My husband, the president of the club, hunts a Belgian Thoroughbred Cross that we purchased from an experienced foxhunter. My daughter, Kasey, whips-in on a spitfire of a registered paint. This is the horse I began hunting with in the Tryon Hounds. He decided he didn't want to hilltop anymore and was ready for something a bit more fast-paced."

According to Minnick, a hunt horse must have the right temperament, and he must be calm in groups and tolerant of the hounds."

The hounds are often running around and sometimes under the horses in the hunt field. Hunt horses must also be fit as we often hunt for three to four hours at a time," said Minnick. "I enjoy watching the delicate dance of the hounds and huntsman as they pursue our quarry. The hounds must respond to the huntsman as he sends them into the covert to search for the scent and likewise obey the sounds of the horn

“I now hunt a Shire/ Thoroughbred cross that has little experience in the hunt field. Patience and perseverance has paid off, and he is a great field master’s horse now.”

On the social scene, the Tryon Hounds hosts many hunt breakfasts (the meal after a hunt), the Hunt Ball and the Tryon Summer Classic Horse Show. This includes the naming of the new crop of puppies for the season.

The Tryon Hounds also particiapates in the Carolina's Hound Show in Camden, S.C. once a year.

• continued on page 62

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APPOINTMENTS MINNICK FAMILY

Jen Hicks (left) and Kasey Minnick (right).

• continued from page 61

calling them back when the fox has gone to ground. There is no better way to spend a beautiful day than to be on the back of a horse, following a well-trained pack of hounds and in the company of like-minded friends and family."

Minnick said it is most important for safety that the rider be competent, and the horse well behaved.

"You must be able to feel comfortable at all gaits, including a gallop. For the jumping field you must be able to jump a 3 foot coop. In order to follow the hounds we must be able to move through many different properties separated by fences.

Slowing to be able to go through a gate is not always an option. First and foremost is respect for the land as property owners allow us to ride over their land. It is our responsibility to do no harm. Also we mut be respectful of the riders

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“There is no better way to spend a beautiful day than to be on the back of a horse, following a well trained pack of hounds and in the company of like-minded friends and family.”

- Pam Minnick

APPOINTMENTS

around us, and never ride too close to another horse. Never jump until the rider in front of you is over and moving on," said Minnick.

On the social scene, the Tryon Hounds hosts many hunt breakfasts (the meal after a hunt), the Hunt Ball and the Tryon Summer Classic Horse Show. This includes the naming of the new crop of puppies for the season. The Tryon Hounds also particiopates in the Carolina's Hound Show in Camden, SC once a year.

"All in all we are a very fun loving group of horse and hound people," said Minnick.

Pam Minnick riding Finnigan.

Nelson Minnick riding Gatsby.

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APPOINTMENTS APPOINTMENTS

Camp Wayfarer Tessmer develops riding school

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APPOINTMENTS FEATURE FEATURE

Written by BARBARA CHILDS Photographs submitted

Rachael Tessmer of Landrum has developed the Wayfarer Riding School, located in Flat Rock, N.C. With the help of Jim Bob and Nancy Wilson, and the use of their wonderful school horses and facility, Tessmer was able to make her dream of starting a riding school come true.

"I knew I wanted to teach riding and give lessons since it has long been a passion of mine. I am so blessed to have their help in developing this riding program," said Tessmer.

Located at Camp Wayfarer in Flat Rock, N.C. the school provides a beautiful atmo- Rachael Tessmer sphere for riding lessons. The camp runs during the summer months, but Tessmer offers riding lessons year around. She specializes in hunter/jumpers with a flat work focus on dressage, and has a variety of breeds from Quarter horses to thoroughbreds.

"Safety is always our priority when choosing school horses for the riding school. We offer horses and ponies of all sizes and skill levels so that every rider is catered to with their needs," said Tessmer.

The schools and camp offer a trail system as well as two rings in which instruction and lessons take place. The setup allows Tessmer to specialize with her lessons, so whether you want to relax and socialize after a long day or get back into the show ring, "we have the facility to fit your needs," said Tessmer.

"We instruct riders of all ages, from 4 and up. Lessons include all aspects of riding, including flat work and fences, as well as grooming and tacking. Riders of all skill levels are taken into consideration when developing lesson plans. Each group lesson is constructed according the the skill level," said Tessmer.

The riding school gives Tessmer the opportunity to do what she loves best, she said, and that is teaching people about the one thing that makes her happiest, horses and the sport of riding. Also with affordable packages and flexible scheduling she can accommodate any rider. This

“I knew I wanted to teach riding and give lessons since it has long been a passion of mine.

I am so blessed to have their help in developing this riding program,”

The camp runs during the summer months, but Tessmer offers riding lessons year around.

She specializes in hunter/ jumpers with a flat work focus on dressage, and has a variety of breeds from Quarter horses to thoroughbreds.

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• continued from page 65

way Tessmer is able to provide riding lessons for adults and children of all backgrounds and experience levels. This gives people a chance to do something they otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to be a part of.

"We hope to provide an unforgettable experience for each rider and instill a love of horses and the sport of riding to each individual. Horses have made an enormous impact on my life and there is nothing more that I love than watching others experience the same relationship with these great animals," said Tessmer.

Students are being taken from the Tryon area and Greenville, S.C. too, as well as Flat Rock, N.C.

A student participating in the Wayfarer Riding School equestrian program.

APPOINTMENTS APPOINTMENTS

Equine gastric ulcers Written by DR. RICH METCALF, Tryon Equine Hospital (Credit: AAEP)

Why do horses get ulcers?

Equine gastric ulcers affect up to 60 percent of show horses. Ulcers are the result of the erosion of the lining of the stomach due to a prolonged exposure of the normal acid in the stomach. Unlike in humans, bacteria does not cause equine gastric ulcers. A horse’s stomach continually secretes acid, which can result in excess acid when the horse is not eating regularly.

Horses are designed to be grazers with regular intake of roughage.

The horse’s stomach is divided into two parts. The bottom part is glandular and secretes acid and has a protective coating to

to the development of ulcers.

Stress (both environmental and physical) can also increase the likelihood of ulcers. Hauling, mixing groups of horses and training can lead to ulcers. Strenuous exercise can decrease both the emptying function of the stomach and blood flow to the stomach, thus contributing to the HORSES AT RISK problem.

Ulcers are a man-made disease. Stall Finally, chronic administration of nonconfinement alone can lead to the developsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ment of ulcers. When horses are fed two times per day, the stomach is subjected to a phenylbutazone can decrease the producprolonged period without feed to neutralize tion of the protective mucus layer, making the acid. Furthermore, high-grain diets pro- the stomach more susceptible to ulcers.

• continued on page 68 duce volatile fatty acids that can contribute keep it from being damaged by acid. The top portion of the stomach is designed for mixing of the contents of the stomach and does not have as much protection from the acid. This is the most common place to find ulcers.

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SYMPTOMS The majority of horses with gastric ulcers do not show outward symptoms. They have more subtle symptoms, such as poor appetite, decreased performance and a poor hair coat. More serious cases will show abdominal pain (colic).

DIAGNOSIS The only way to definitively diagnose ulcers is through gastroscopy, which involves placing an endoscope into the stomach and looking at its surface. To allow this, the stomach must be empty, so most horses are held off feed for six to 12 hours. With light sedation and possibly a twitch, the endoscope is passed through the nostril and down the esophagus into the stomach. The light and camera on the end of the endoscope allow visualization of the lining of the stomach.

TREATMENT AND PREVENTION Treatment is aimed at removing predisposing factors and decreasing acid production. Environmental factors should be addressed. Horses that must be stalled should be arranged so they can see and socialize with other horses. Some horses appear to enjoy having a ball or other object in the stall to occupy their time.

More frequent feedings will help buffer the acid in the stomach. Decreasing types of grain that form the volatile fatty acids may help some horses. The energy from the grain can be replaced by using a feed higher in fat. In horses with lower caloric needs, grass hay with the appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements will help.

Medication to decrease acid production is necessary in horses showing clinical disease or when the predisposing factors cannot be removed, such as with some horses in training. While antacids sound like a good idea, to be effective they would need to be administered six to 12 times a day. Antacids in feeds are relatively ineffective because they are ingested at the same time as the feed, which will buffer the acid. Multiple medications are available to decrease acid production. The most effective treatment is Gastrogard (Omeprazole), which decreases acid production for up to 24 hours.

Prevention of ulcers is key. Limiting stressful situations, frequent feeding and access to grass or hay is imperative. This provides a supply of feed to neutralize the acid and stimulate saliva production, which is nature’s best antacid. When this is not adequate or possible, horses at greatest risk will benefit from medication to decrease acid production.

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APPOINTMENTS

87th annual

Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Meeting Charles C. Lingerfelt III receives a plaque from Laura WEicker in recognition of his 10 years of service to the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club.

Article submitted by JEN HICKS

The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club recently hosted its 87th Annual Meeting at Sunnydale in Tryon. President Chuck Lingerfelt opened the event by welcoming the attending members, volunteers and sponsors and thanking them for another year of hard work. “As we begin our 87th year, we are proud of our accomplishments and look forward to the future with an even greater anticipation of continued growth,� said Lingerfelt.

After serving a three-year term, Joey Cabaniss, Betty Moss and Warren Rauhofer will be taking their leave from the board of directors. Mrs. Nancy Z. Wilson gave the nominating committee report, which included a brief bio on each of the nominees up for election to the board. Anne Baskett, Joseph Petty and Alicia Henderson were approved to fill the opening directorships.

In other business, Jennifer Smith and Linda Ketcham were announced as chairwomen for the 2013 Horse Show season.

They have been in this position for the last four years and will continue to help the charity horse shows grow. Laura Weicker, executive director, announced that the 67th running of the

Block House Races will take place on April 20 at FENCE in 2013. The 66th Block House held on April 21, 2012 was a great success., Weicker said. She gave reports on both the Horse Trials and the upcoming 79th Any and All Dog Show, which will be held on Sunday, Oct. the 8 at Harmon Field.

Nancy Z. Wilson informed the membership that $2,250 had been awarded in scholarship monies directly through the club. The recipients were Megan Betzel, Julie Mathis, Ashley Monk and Skyler Warren.

The retirement of President Charles C. Lingerfelt III was announced and Weicker gave an emotional speech along with a plaque commemorating his 10 years of dedicated service to the club.

The directors met after the business meeting to elect officers for 2013: Nancy Z. Wilson, president; Janet Peterson, vice-president; David Carmichael, treasurer; Pam Minnick, recording-secretary.

Directors for 2013 are: Anne Baskett, Alicia Henderson, Susan Kocher, Joann Loheac, Pam Minnick, Lisa Otto, Janet Peterson, Joseph Petty and Nancy Z. Wilson.

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THEN & NOW

An enchanting person Jarrett Schmidt

Written by GERALD PACK

Jarrett Schmidt was a Carol Channing and a Hello Dolly wrapped in one, a true, died-in-the-wool, up front, great person.

She was a proper lady, always dressed for dinner, always turned out in proper hunt attire. Jarrett came to Tryon in the early mid-1950s, straight out of Park Avenue in Manhattan. She loved this area — so much so that she brought many of her friends down with her, some of them quite prominent.

Jarrett owned many great horses during her lifetime — Saxon Woods, Nautemia and Martines, just for starters. She owned some good racehorses as well, some of which went on to win top sport horse events such as the Hunter Championship finals at Harrisburg, Washington International, Madison Square Garden and the Toronto Canada horse shows. Gordon Wright always rode her horses.

Nautemia was, by far, her favorite horse. When she retired him here to Saxon Woods Farm, she gave him the entire run of the place—the front yard, the back yard, even the driveway, which she shared with her neighbor, Mrs. Brown.

But, Nautemia had full access to everything. The old warhorse knew it, too, and took great pleasure in blocking the advances of Mrs. Brown’s car, proudly holding his ground despite the horn and

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the invariable dressing down.

In the end, it was the peacock who managed to push Mrs. Brown over the edge. One day, Jarrett arrived with a beautiful, blue peacock, which promptly took up residence on Mrs. Brown’s back gate where she kept her garbage. A fine looking creature, the peacock was nonetheless quite verbal, as they often can be, yelling at anything that moves, night or day.

Mrs. Brown quickly tired of that nonsense, so she got her shotgun and shot him in the head. Then, she threw the carcass on top of her car and drove over to Jarrett’s stable, boldly tossing the evidence onto the ground.

Dismayed but undaunted, Jarrett ordered her kitchen staff to pluck its feathers, which she then sent to her hat maker in New York to have them transformed into a hat, which she wore to Betsy and my wedding in 1970. I had to admit, the bird’s plumage looked pretty good on her head. Everyone wanted to know, “Who is the lady in the stunning blue peacock hat?”

Over the years, Betsy and I became

quite close to Jarrett. She was impossible not to love, being so full of life. I remember she had a great groom by the name of Jerry, who was Black Irish and wickedly funny. Several times a year, she would have him remove the contents of the horse trailer, wash it out, put in some furniture, and stock the bar with plenty of liquor and beer nuts, along with some playing cards and a backgammon board.

Then, climbing behind the wheel, Jerry would start making the rounds of Manhattan, picking up Jarrett’s clients and friends for a party only she could throw. Jerry drove while the other two grooms worked the loading ramp, stopping at Park, Lexington and Fifth avenues to pick up and drop off, the van rocking and rolling with the sounds of laughter, sometimes until 2 a.m.

She was like that. We always had a ball wherever we went.

One spring day, she and Betsy and I decided to go to Camden and show. We loaded up the horses and off we went, Jarrett’s beloved whippets in her lap and her two grooms in back with the horses.

Everyone wanted to know “who is the lady in the stunning, blue peacock hat?”

COLUMN

We won a lot of classes that day, enjoying ourselves fully in the process. But on our way home, driving through a remote bit of country, our battery went suddenly dead as we stopped at a station to gas up the truck.

Fortunately, there was no shortage of people willing to push us out of our jam as several men had been hanging out behind the van anyway, beers in hand, trying to catch a glimpse of the six horses inside.

I leaned out the window and asked for a push, and they were very willing to do so.

The more they pushed and moaned, the more others joined in to help, and by the time we rolled over the bridge toward the interstate, there was a whole crowd of them.

I popped the clutch and off we went.

As we waved out the window to thank them, we saw everyone still running in our direction, their home-brewed smiles spilling across their faces as they kept waving us good-bye.

Despite her larger-than-life behavior, Jarrett remained a proper lady to the end.

Her last night at home, she asked my son, Lewis, who was her godson, to bring her full-length mink coat to her. Gingerly, she sat up in bed while he draped it over her frail shoulders, then carried her outside to the waiting ambulance. She passed away shortly after that, from cancer.

She came here in style and left in her glory. She is and was a true sportswoman who left her legacy for those of us who were close to her. She will never be forgotten for it. Stay tuned.

Gift Certificates Available

Jarrett remained a proper lady to the end. Her last night at home, she asked my son, Lewis, who was her godson, to bring her full-length mink coat to her.

APPOINTMENTS

Big Scoop

Dudley (top) and Madeline (bottom).

in equine news

Written by BARBARA CHILDS

The aliens have landed and one is here living in the barn. I have not seen any spaceship, but who knows. This furry with large brown ears and brown soft eyes looks friendly. It lives behind my barn mother's tack trunk. The dogs, hens and barn cats are not disturbed by its presence.

It likes to hoard toilet paper, gloves(any kind), plastic cups and small tack sponges.

I heard my barn mother say that it is a pack rat and is quite rare. She calls it Petey.

I know it's an alien. I do not know what it eats, but have seen it scurry about here at night when the moon and stars come out.

Here's what's hot and new in town.

The Southside Grill (where Elmo's used to be) will be opening soon for lunch and dinner. Steaks, seafood, and my favorite, leafy green salads, will be the fare.

Polk's Mounted Patrol will hold its first annual open show on Sept. 22. at 72 L IFEINO URFO O THI L L S. C O M

FENCE. Gates open at 7 a.m. and classes start at 9 a.m. If you would like to volunteer please call Sue Truitt at 864-457-2718.

Trophies will be awarded in each class up to sixth. place.

Have you tried the acupuncture at Cynthia Milligan's office in Tryon? This age old treatment is good medicine especially for riders. Cynthia is a rider and knows how to make you feel good again. Contact her at To the Point Healthcare in Tryon.

Be looking for a new horse and home store in nearby Landrum that will specialize in embroidery. Lisa Otto has plans for this new enterprise for the needs of the horse world. It's nice to have embroidery for blankets, sheets, whatever.

I was drawn to the inner office where the cats and their foods are present. So I backed up to the kitty door and did a stunning back kick and bullseye - got my head

Madeline was there cheering me on as I was shaking the bag and showering the cat food everywhere for munching. Then I heard the thundering voice of the barn manager, “El Gordo,� Dudley, what have you done!

DUDLEY

Dudley ’s Recipe Tomato and Gouda Filled Cheese Sandwich Since Madeline is the CEO of my recipe box, she has chosen this for a rock star first place sandwich, good any time of the day or evening.

1 or 2 medium vine ripened tomatoes 3 oz. of Gouda cheese 1 tbl. olive oil Salt and pepper (use kosher salt) 3 slices of whole wheat bread or whole grain bread Saute the tomato slices in the olive oil with salt and pepper. Saute until softened. Brush bread with the oil and place tomatoes on the bread.

Grate Gouda over the tomatoes and top with the remaining bread. Cook sandwiches on med high in the frying pan. Turn over to brown the other side and serve.

into the door and swiftly grabbed the big bag of dry cat food and pulled it through to freedom. Madeline was there cheering me on as I was shaking the bag and showering the cat food everywhere for munching. Then I heard the thundering voice of the barn manager, "El Gordo," Dudley, what have you done! I retreated to the comforts of the couch where hens, cats and 2 barn dogs were resting. We are a happy family.

I reflected silently and regained my dignity in the light of the morning sun. Eyes, ears, feathers, fur and tails all seemed to be directed on me.

Did you know that Carolyn West is training and riding her horse, Darkwin, for Intermediare II? Go Carolyn! Soon they will be at Grand Prix in dressage.

Hank Heinzberger's four-year-old out of Don Principe is ready to be ridden. He is a gorgeous mover, has been backed and has a sweet temperament. He is a gorgeous brown bay.

He will make a prize-winning mount for dressage and any equine discipline he will be chosen for. He is available.

Did you know that Annika Kramer's dog, Jessy, had ten puppies and they all need homes? They are adorable.

WHY I LOVE THE FOOTHILLS

Patrick McLendon Director of the Mill Spring Agricultural Center

What is your background?

I grew up in Henderson County. I was actually the first baby born in a new section of the Transylvania Community Hospital, so I had my picture in the paper on my very first day. I moved to South Carolina and then Georgia for college and after college went to Washington, D.C. for work.

I was employed at Georgetown University for the majority of the time I was living in D.C. and was a Senior Risk Analyst handling issues at the University ranging from worker injuries to fires and floods. I enjoyed a few things about big city living but most of the time just wished to be back home in the mountains.

About two years ago I came home with the great opportunity to be an Americorps service member and work in Polk County with Lynn Sprague. After a year of service I was hired to be the director of the Mill Spring Agricultural Center.

What brought you to the Foothills area?

I miss the mountains and its people whenever I am gone from here for more than a day or so. The mountains, friends, and family are what sustain me through the trials of daily life. I haven't ever really questioned if this is where I am supposed to live, just always knew that it was going to be that way and that always made me happy.

What do you enjoy most about the Foothills?

The Foothills are a place unlike any other in the world. It may seem tiresome from time to time that it was the same as it was yesterday but I'm sure Paris gets old for Parisians, too.

There is an expansive bounty of natural wonders here in our region and that is what I enjoy most.

When traveling around our little neck of the woods I always wish I could see it with the eyes of someone who hasn't seen it before, to be awed by the sunrise view from the top of Saluda Grade or the view looking up at Tryon Peak, Hogback, and White Oak when the light is just right and the skies the perfect shade of blue (you know what I mean). Waterfalls, creeks, rivers, forests, autumn leaves, spring buds, parks, farms, trails, byways, greenways, parkways and the list goes on and on.

How do you feel your knowledge has benefited the Foothills area?

There are two simple philosophies we try to uphold here

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Interview by GWEN RING Photograph submitted

at the ag center. The first is, "This ain't the Biltmore." We can strive and strive to be as polished and perfect as those wonderful people make the Biltmore House look but we're not there yet.

(They have had a century head start though, so give us time and we'll get there.) We work hard to improve this building for Patrick McLendon and friend. the community and the people who will always remember this as their school.

The second philosophy is this: Keep moving forward. We try to make at least one thing better a day about this facility.

Sometimes we get five things done and sometimes we fail miserably and only get something a quarter of the way done. But each day we start anew and work hard to make it better. No matter the odds, we keep moving forward.

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

When I was a kid my dad worked at Brevard College. On New Year's Eve one year my parents decided to go out and about on the town and left me at home with an exchange student from Russia. He could not travel home for lack of money and when he arrived here in America for school he brought as luggage only a single paper bag of books.

He told me as we watched the ball drop that it is an old Russian tradition that how you spend the New Year day is how you will spend the rest of your year. From then on I made sure to make the first day of the year count. Over the last few years I have always started the day with the sunrise. When I first got back to the mountains I spent the sunrise at the World's Edge that first year. I think it is one of the most special places of Polk County (even though you have to drive through Henderson County to get there).

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