Life In Our Foothills November 2020

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

life IN OUR

FOOTHILLS

November 2020

November 2020

New Digs for Dogs Saluda’s Renaissance Man

Running Down a Dream

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FROM THE EDITOR

A

h, November. Perhaps the coziest month of the year––or second coziest depending on when you start decorating for the holiday season. My family? We start around Halloween.

But November is the true beginning to the holidays; cooler temperatures, crunchy leaves and dieting in preparation for all that Thanksgiving weight you’re about to gain. This month and all of its cold winds and chilly evenings just make me want to wrap my puppy in a blanket and watch Christmas movies.

(Too early for that? Never!)

Kevin Powell General Manager

On the cover

In this issue of Life in Our Foothills, you’ll come across your fair share of puppies and dogs alike. The Foothills Humane Society shares their “New Dig for Dogs” by preparing to add an entirely new building that includes 28 more kennels for their dogs and cats.

Visit FHS and bring home a new member for your family to your own home to share a blanket with this chilly season!

Who knew we lived among so many people with hidden talents? Turns out, one of the Foothills’ is just up the mountain in Saluda. Greg Bryant became an actor before he could even walk. Flip through the pages to read about his struggles and victories that made him the man he is today.

Despite my assumptions that everyone spends November sitting in a window waiting for Thanksgiving and snow, some people prefer taking a run around the neighborhood. Or maybe they prefer running a half-marathon in all fifty states of the country. That’s right––Carolyn Baughman has a quest to sprint across America one state at a time.

So, settle in with your magazine in a pair of fuzzy socks––or running shoes––and start reading!

New Digs for Dogs

Foothills Humane Society (Story on page 12)

Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

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Are you still a little bit leery of spending much time in public but don’t want to miss an issue of Life in Our Foothills? Not a problem; we can help with that. During the month of November 2020, call our office at 828-859-9151 and we will mail you a copy of Life in Our Foothills for a year for only $15 a year.

That’s 75% off the cover price! Mention the promo code FALL SAVINGS to take advantage of this offer before it blows away in the Autumn breezes.

Macy Cochran macy.cochran@tryondailybulletin.com

Staff

life IN OUR

General Manager Kevin Powell Pagination Jullia Zeleskey

Administration Courtney Smith

Marketing Ben Bouser

Distribution Jeff Allison Jamie Lewis

FOOTHILLS 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 LLC. 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 St., Tryon, NC 28782, or email to kevin.powell@ tryondailybulletin.com. Life in Our Foothills is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and Upstate South Carolina, and online at www.tryondailybulletin.com. Subscriptions are available for $30 per year by calling 828-859-9151.

To advertise, call 828-859-9151.

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Contributors Mark Levin, Writer and Photographer

Mark is retired from a career in education. In addition to the classroom he has had a lifetime of experiences earning a buck as a photographer, videographer, author, musician and camp director. You can follow his blog about people and places in the foothills at www.FoothillsFaces. com or check out his new podcast he enjoys with a friend of 50 years at www.garyandmark.com.

Vincent Verrecchio, Writer and Photographer

When not working in advertising as a copywriter, art director, photographer, creative director, and agency owner, Vince was on a horse with a camera in his hand somewhere in North America, Europe, or Africa.

Now lightly retired from advertising, for more than 40 years, he writes about whatever strikes his fancy, looks for interesting photos everywhere and wanders the Foothills on a horse.

Macy Cochran, Writer and Photographer

Macy Cochran is an English Writing student at North Greenville University. She is a lover of books, coffee and binge watching sitcoms from the 90’s. As a creative writer, she often spends her time working on her novels, poetry and short stories.

Jimmi Buell, Writer

Jimmi is an extension agent for the Polk County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. She teaches cooking and nutrition classes with a focus on improving health with better food choices. She can be reached at jimmi_buell@ncsu.edu or 828-894-8218.

Pebbles, Writer

Pebbles is the “spokespony” for HERD, or Helping Equines Regain Dignity, a local nonprofit that saves equines from dire conditions and in many cases slaughter. She dictates her monthly columns about her adventures, and what a rescue organization does, to Heather Freeman.

Pebbles and Heather can be reached through HerdRescue.org

Jullia Zeleskey, Photographer and Graphic Designer

Jullia has always had an passion for art and design. These two interests have blossomed into a career she can enjoy on a daily basis.

As a photographer, her keen eye for that unique shot are showcased in the Tryon Daily Bulletin, Life in Our Foothills and Visitors Bulletin magazines. Most weekends, she can be found spending time outdoors hiking or mountain biking a trail off the beaten path or sipping a vanilla latte.

LIFE OUR FOOTHILLS 6 6 LIFE IN IN OUR FOOTHILLS

Contents 10 Dr Walters track ceremony Landrum High School Cross Country

12 New Digs for Dogs

Foothills Humane Society

22 Saluda’s Renaissance Man Greg Bryant

32 Running Down a Dream Trekking Across America a half-marathon at a time

38 Appointments

Picasso, our discovered masterpiece

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New Digs for Dogs Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

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Running for Her Life Photo by Macy Cochran

44 Quick Bites

Seasonal Veggies for Cooler Weather

46 Quick Bites

Sweet potato casserole

48 Marketplace 50 Index

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Greg Bryant Photo by Mark Levin

NOVEMBER 2020

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Dr Walters track ceremony

By Macy Cochran

On Monday, September 29, the Landrum High School Cross Country team dedicated their track to Dr. Todd “Doc” Walter, Jr. With much love and adoration for him, he brought passion into his coaching, mentoring and healing that all those he taught will take with them the rest of their lives.

Rebecca Earl and Lauren Patten

Anna Renalds, Michelle Taylor, and Kennedy Hall

Ava and Isabella Woodard

Rhonda and Jess Woodard Ryan Cizmar, Will Miller and Micah Bastoi

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Tracey and Bratt Fleming The XC Kitchen Crew

Camdon Backstrom, Kendall Little, and Payne Wood

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Foothills Humane Society Campus

New Digs for Dogs Writer & Photographer Vincent Verrecchio

In about 1989, Bertie Phayer stood with her husband Joe at an undeveloped 11-acre tract of wooded land on Little Mountain Road in Columbus.

She was excited to be involved in a challenge that, if met, would improve the lives of neglected, abused and unwanted dogs and cats throughout Polk County and the Landrum area. The land had been donated by Arthur Farwell to be the site of the Foothills Humane Society (FHS) shelter. Joe was the project manager on the building that would fulfill the dreams and plans of FHS Presidents Pat Martin and Lillie Brown.

With imagination, Bertie envisioned architect Kelly Murphy’s design replacing the overgrowth, deadfalls and unkempt trees. She was ready to commit her

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experience to the Capital Campaign Committee chaired by George Carter.

“The new building was dedicated on November 11,1990,” says Bertie with a nostalgic smile.

That new building is now the old building. As I’m writing this in September 2020, FHS plans to dedicate New Digs for Dogs on the 30th Anniversary.

As you’re reading this, however, the plan may have changed.

Susan Wallahora, FHS Board President says “..with continuing commitment to our mission and lessons from our history, we keep moving forward.

The actual words of that mission have varied over the decades, but the bottom line is that we do everything

Old Digs was dedicated November 11, 1990. New Digs is planned for dedication on the 30th Anniversary, November 11, 2020, depending on COVID conditions.

Susan Wallahora, President, started as a FHS volunteer about 13 years ago washing dog bowls.

possible to match a cat or dog with responsible, loving adopters. Bertie can tell the history, since she’s lived so much of it.”

“The Foothills Humane Society was originally incorporated in 1957 as The Polk County Animal Protection Society,” says Bertie. “That was before my time, so it’s easy for me to second guess and wonder if that was a misleading name for a private, non-profit organization with no public funding.” The Society depended on foster homes until 1983 when members also rented Daisy Hills Kennels to take care of the growth in rescues and strays.

“Joe and I met Pat Martin at church. At the time she was trying to raise money for the shelter

Bertie Phayer remembers prior to 2010 when the shelter euthanized for space.

building. As we chatted, she learned that I graduated in Journalism from Louisiana State University. In an early job, I was the promotions department for a Tulsa TV station and often wore Mickey Mouse ears because our best program was Mickey Mouse Club.

Pat also thought it interesting that I had lived in Libya for 14 years.”

Bertie’s husband worked there for Exxon, and during that time, she rescued overworked cart donkeys and brought home a horse she found in a barbed wire harness.

“When I was growing up, my father always brought home rescued dogs, cats and horses. I was and still am a firm believer that they have souls.”

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After the original new building opened, programs and services expanded. By 2010, the facility had increased capacity by almost 50%. Between 1990 and 2010, over 31,000 animals had been sheltered.

“But many were euthanized.” Bertie grimaces at the memories. “We were always short of funds and space, and the most adoptable animals by breed, size, and cuteness were given preference as to who would stay. My happiest memory at the shelter was the board meeting in 2010 when we decided 14

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to become no-kill. The economics of that decision were immense, but there was such joy in the staff, and we committed together to make it work.”

Susan elaborates, “We do not euthanize for space, and many people adopt or donate because we are no-kill, but the volume of incoming animals still overburdens the existing facility, staff and budget.

Total intake from animal control and owner turnins for 2018 was 828. Of that, strays accounted for 629 with 86% of those from Polk County.

Bertie Phayer, retired Board member and FHS historian, states, “I am proud to have been part of an organization...where dreamers recognize a need and find a way to meet it.”

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Total intake for 2019 was 957. 727 were strays from the county, an increase to 87%. Less than 20% of our operating budget comes from a contract paid by the county to assure space for Animal Control. The balance comes from adoption fees that are hundreds of dollars lower than actual value and from donations and grants that are stretched beyond facilities and animal care to community education and services such as the animal food bank.”

“I am retired now with fond memories of my years in fund-raising,” continues Bertie. “For example, about 15 years ago, inspired by Betsy Miner, we launched the Animal Fair. Then there was the Make Believe Ball, and for about 10 years I wrote the poems for the mailers.

Whatever it took, except I never wore dog ears.

“I am proud to have been part of an organization that provided a place where other non-profits could get a start. The dreamers and risk-takers such as Lennie and Elaine Rizzo, Lennie’s Kids; Margo Savage, FERA; Linda Williams and Ann Goodheart, Service Dogs for Veterans; and Po’ Kitties, Dana Mayer. An organization where dreamers recognize a need and find a way to meet it. When Susan took me on a private tour of New Digs, I was wowed at an intellectual level, but here...” she gestures to her heart and smiles, “warm and fuzzy.”

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Susan started as a FHS volunteer about 13 years ago washing dog bowls. She fostered a puppy, one of Lennie’s Kids recovering from surgery. Gizmo was technically a “failed foster” because he went nowhere else. He had found his forever home. Susan and her husband Richard continue to foster kittens and puppies and currently have kept five dogs and eight cats.

“We still need landscaping and some vet equipment at new digs, but I was thrilled to show it off to Bertie.”

Susan beams, explaining, “My favorite area is the puppy section with its own HVAC allowing for isolation of mothers and babies. We have three separate zones.”

Guiding Bertie through the more than 4,000 square feet, Susan notes the kennels for up to 28 dogs. Each is 96 square feet with lifetime epoxy walls and floors for easy sanitation. There are outdoor views for stimulation and easy access to outdoor runs. The runs were made possible by a matching grant from the Polk County Community Foundation. At the heart of the building is the veterinarian exam and care room.

For the current status on the New Digs for Dogs dedication, call Executive Director Bill Coleman, 828-8634444 or visit www.foothillshumanesociety.org.

“We still need landscaping and some vet equipment at New Digs, but I was thrilled to show it off to Bertie,” says Susan Wallahora.

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From the kennels there are outdoor views for stimulation and easy access to outdoor runs. The runs were made possible by a matching grant from the Polk County Community Foundation.

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Snow White and her babies were the first to find shelter in the New Digs puppy wing. (Photos submitted).

Bertie Phayer has been a dreamer and doer at FHS since it was an undeveloped 11-acre tract of wooded land.

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The actual words of the FHS mission have varied over the years, but Susan Wallahora, President, says, “The bottom line is that we do everything possible to match a cat or dog with responsible, loving adopters.”

Bill Coleman, backed with over 25 years in senior management of non-profits, started as Executive Director in October and has a keen interest in the fund-raising traditions of Bertie Phayer and other FHS pioneers. (Photo submitted of Bill, Millie, and photo bomber Simba).

Foothills Humane Society 828-863-4444 visit www.foothillshumanesociety.org NOVEMBER 2020

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Greg Bryant

Saluda’s Renaissance Man Writer & Photographer Mark Levin

Greg Bryant is leading an interesting life.

And to hear him tell it, his life right now is the best it has ever been. It has not been an easy trek. Greg has overcome obstacles most of us only read about or hear about happening to someone else. He has a remarkable narrative to tell, and over the years he’s found many ways to convey that story.

Greg has always been an actor. And always means starting as a ten-month-old baby when he crawled across the floor to be part of his sister’s Girl Scout troop’s show they were putting on for charity. Greg doesn’t remember this, but his sister makes a point to remind him that that’s when he broke into

show business. As he grew, he continued to be on stage. In kindergarten he learned to shine, by third grade he was giving 37-minute book reports when his classmates were done after three.

By the time he was in seventh grade, his theatrical skills had gelled. Greg was finding himself in more sophisticated roles and taking on bigger parts. He says by nature he’s actually a shy person in day to day life.

“At parties, I’d be the person in the corner not talking to anyone. But put me in front of a crowd performing, and I’m a whole other person.” Greg says, “I can’t remember a time that I didn’t want to perform.”

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Greg with a photo from Soviet-India tour

Professionally, Greg spent decades performing in small ensemble shows presenting cutting edge material. Think shows with playwrights like Tom Stoppard, Sam Shepherd, and David Mamet – avantgarde shows that weren’t easily accepted by the folks in Indiana at the time. Shows were experimental, thought-provoking, and sophisticated. With these various ensembles, Greg continued to grow his craft and find new outlets. He and others in his group decided to try and see what a move to a large city might have in store from them. A transition to Chicago from Indiana ensued with hopes that the works his companies were producing would find a more receptive audience. Greg has always aimed for shows that were socially conscious and in some way meaningful.

An example was an original show produced by The Commons Theatre of which Greg was a part. The play was, The Signal Season of Dummy Hoy. The show

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brought awareness of deaf culture through the story of a real American baseball player in the late 1800s. The play was about William Ellsworth “Dummy” Hoy, a deaf athlete. The hand signals used in baseball today were originally credited to the need for Dummy (a name he wore with pride) to be able to know what to anticipate. The play was touching, informative, entertaining… and a huge success.

But making a living as an actor is virtually impossible. Almost all actors have other work they do in order to keep their theatrical hopes arrive. Greg had a big break after he had joined the Chicago Actors Ensemble.

In 1990, Greg and this group were invited by the United States Department of State to travel and perform in India and the Soviet Union for several months. They developed a play in association with a Soviet company called the Comradeship of Artists and Musicians and together toured various cities with completely different cultures.

Katrina and Greg

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Fast forward through a lot of theatrical roles, odd jobs, and a long period abusing drugs and alcohol led Greg to a reckoning that he had to change. When he started his road to recovery, he withdrew from stage work for two years because most of the people he knew in the theatre abused drugs or alcohol. During this two-year break, he explored unique and different ways to combine his life experiences with his stage abilities.

He developed a series of one-man shows to highlight various aspects of his life. The break away from the stage also set up his road to recovery. He’s been sober for 27 years now.

Just this past September, Greg presented his latest variation of his work to a full house of appreciative audience in the old St. Matthews Church in Saluda.

His one-man show, Stories from a Life – Chapter Six: The Purpose of Power is to Give it Away is Greg’s first production in this newly repurposed space. Greg, along with Katrina Thissen, have formed a new theatrical

company called Third Saturday Productions to help encourage others to explore new ways of expressing themselves.

Greg has lived in Saluda for nearly ten years now.

Only a small handful of folks (until just recently) knew about his past as an actor. What they do know him for is his “bread & butter” job, working as an independent handyman in and around Saluda. It’s a job he’s a natural at, having grown up helping his dad do every kind of odd job around their house. Greg sharpened his building and repair skills working with a carpenter for several years before going out on his own. He calls his business, Greg – the Handyman.

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Telling a story

While Greg has plenty to do with the new theatre company and his fulltime work as a handyman, this isn’t the end of his creative talents. About a year ago, Greg also stepped in to take over Cathy Jackson’s very popular local online and printed newsletter, Saluda Lifestyles. The newsletter is a window into all things Saluda and Greg spends many hours each month as a solo writer, publisher, marketing director, and circulation manager. The free newsletter has thousands of subscribers in Saluda and around the country. And somehow or another, he manages to find time to do a little volunteer work at the new Saluda Visitors Center.

Closing out our interview, I asked Greg if there is something else he would like readers to know.

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He collected his thoughts for a minute and ended our conversation by saying, “The most important thing I have learned in my life is that my reaction to every situation tells me more about myself than it does the situation. It’s the core of what I try to do theatrically, to remind every human being on this planet that their life is the creation of their choices – period.”

Greg has learned from his past how to make his future better. Like most people, he has made some poor choices. But he is one person who used those mistakes as building blocks to turn himself and his life around. Greg T. Bryant is a fascinating person and we’re lucky to have him in our midst.

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Greg starts his day at Wakey Monkey

Running Down a Dream

Trekking Across America one half-marathon at a time Writer & Photographer Macy Cochran “New York, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.”

Carolyn Baughman names off each state in which she has completed a half-marathon run, which is 13.1 miles.

And her goal? Running a half-marathon in all fifty states.

The idea of taking on such a task was brought to her attention when she was running in Kentucky with a fellow mom. To Carolyn’s surprise, running a half-marathon in all fifty states is something of a bucket list goal among the running community.

“I ran in middle school and high school,” she says. “My college didn’t offer track or cross country, but I still ran off and on.”

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Then, when she got married, she started signing up for marathons again, completing her first one at age 28. Now at 42, she makes it a point to run throughout the week, not in preparation for her quest, but because she is flooded with passion for that runners’ high.

“Running half-marathons became an outlet to my self-care,” she says. When she first was introduced to this idea, she thought, “This will provide opportunities to meet people, connect with communities and travel with my family.” A bonus for trekking across America to run half-marathons was that each run gave back to a community in some way. Most events donate to a cause, help raise money for fire departments or anyone else in need.

Her passion sparked to life when, as a child, she watched track and field on T.V. with her dad.

“I realized I was fast. In middle school, I got this feeling, while sprinting around the track, like I was flying for a moment, and I loved that feeling.”

Carolyn’s desire to complete half-marathons in each state, though, blossoms from the fact that she loves that each run teaches her something.

“I’m not doing this so I can say I did it, but it’s for my own quest. When I run, I’m a better mom, wife and overall person,” she says.

Her family is her biggest supporter. With a husband, 14-year-old daughter, 9-year-old son, and 2-year old little girl, traveling, some might think, would be difficult. But not for the Baughman’s. In fact, their hope is to make it to Alabama to cheer on their wife and mother while running a half-marathon in her seventh state.

The quest, Carolyn believes, will take over a decade to complete. “If I can get finished by the time I’m fifty-five, that’s averaging four states each year,” she says. “When I say I’m going to do something, I won’t stop.” And that’s an important part of her journey.

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Carolyn with her husband, Michael

The harder aspects of making it to all fifty states is staying motivated for all those years. “Sometimes,” she says with a laugh, “I just want to sleep in. The hardest part is that sometimes you’re weary, but you always feel better afterwards.

If I don’t keep my eye on the prize, I lose motivation.”

Inspiration, then, tends to come from watching her children comprehend what she often tells them: “You can be anyone you want to be.” It’s important to Carolyn that her children see they can do anything they set their minds to.

“There’s beauty in the things that come from it.”

She fears that once she’s twenty-five states in, half way through her quest, it might start tiring her. But she clings to her positive mindset: “Growing up, my parents said you could be anything you want to be. I’ve always gone after things in life, and if I feel it’s right, I don’t quit. Doing this not only benefits me, but my family. They get to experience travel and getting outside of their space and seeing the world.”

Never once has she considered giving up. While she might be exhausted half-way through this adventure, she’ll think of her strong supporters, her parents, in-laws, sister, community, and Tryon.

“There’s something innate about running that goes deep in the essence of being a human,” says Carolyn. “It’s a passion.

For so many, it’s something that taps something inside of us that’s a natural stride and motion.”

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Kentucky Half

Tennessee Half with Michael

Legacy of Hope Half Marathon NC with parents

Most importantly, it all comes together within the mind, body and spirit for her.

When Carolyn runs, no matter the state or weather, hot or cold, country or city, her favorite part of running in each state is getting a feel for their communities.

“Every single one has a spirit,” she says. “Whether it’s a small town or the streets of New York City, it’s got an energy and a certain spirit of the people.”

There’s a different taste for every state. For New York City, Carolyn burst through the bustling boroughs, experiencing pure adrenaline and tearjerking emotions.

In Kentucky, she was drawn to the coal-mining

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town where the marathon was put on to raise money and save the town.

The Georgia run took her to Atlanta at nighttime, and dashing through the glowing city felt dangerous with all of its urban energy.

Through each state that Carolyn Baughman has run and will run, it’s one step closer to crossing the finish line and conquering the challenge of completing a half-marathon in all fifty states. When she might become restless, it’ll all be worth it to brave the test and pass with flying colors.

But she isn’t running to win. She’s running down a dream.

NYC Marathon 1 bridge

NYC Marathon 2 with M, E and J

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Appointments

This just came in to me a better happy ending photo of Picasso in his new home taken today.

Picasso

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Our Discovered Masterpiece

Picasso with his new family, Ashley and Virginia Brooks (Virginia is in the saddle)

By Pebbles In my not-so-humble opinion, I believe there are masterpieces created in all forms, shapes, and sizes. Take me for example; perfection was no accident! With my amazing gray-blue coloration and enormous lovely eyes, I am a vision to behold for any well- studied critic. If you asked me to pick what great master artist would have best captured my beauty, I would say it would have been the great Italian painter Sandro Botticelli. I could surely be his study for The Birth of Venus, looking divine standing on that clam shell with my mane flowing in the breeze.

In the art world, just think of all the great paintings that have been rediscovered that were hidden from view, sometimes for generations. Some lost in the clutter of an old barn, or in an attic trunk, stashed away for decades, forgotten. Someone unknowingly scores the find of a missing Rembrandt or a dusty but provocative Caravaggio.

Every so often, treasure hunters find sunken ships laden with one-of-a-kind gold jewelry worn by pre-Columbian royalty. There are the lost, rare gemstones unearthed on a far-flung beach, or the unrecognized rare white jade smiling Buddha statue being used as a door stop at a great aunt’s retreat.

There are other great finds in the mix of life awaiting discovery. Our rescue is lucky enough to find the fourlegged kind, with soulful pleading eyes, unkempt manes and swishing tails, standing on four unkempt hooves.

Such was the case with our young horse Picasso.

NOVEMBER 2020

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Beth Harrill tacking the obstacle course on Picasso

Picasso jumping the outside course

Indeed, native Spaniard Picasso, one of the world’s most recognized artists, was in fact the inspiration for the name of our four-year-old, 14.2-hand pinto gelding. Tenacious Pablo Picasso was a master painter, sculptor, printmaker, and ceramics artist. He also excelled at etching and writing. A visionary, his work matured from naturalism to Cubism and Surrealism, shaping the direction of modern and contemporary art throughout the decades. Amazingly, he survived two World Wars, appeared in films, penned poetry, and fathered four children, a masterpiece himself. Many connoisseurs and collectors consider him to be one of the most sought-after artists of the 20th century.

Alas, I thought it was the perfect name for this equine we discovered on death row at a kill lot. The very chiseled look of this pony’s head and the correct, thin angular build of his frame reminded us of a Picasso painting. His striking coloring and stoic eyes sealed the deal. We had to save him and bring him into our horse rescue, Helping Equines Regain Dignity, HERD. The price tag on this young gelding was $875. Once

paid for, he was picked up and placed in a quarantine facility for one month. Then Tim Riffe, our trusty transporter, brought him to North Carolina to begin his makeover. Our Picasso was not yet trained to be ridden.

Through his Coggins test paperwork, we were able to locate his original owner. Turns out he was born on a ranch in Texas. They had gotten him used to leading in a halter and tying him to a hitching post. Why, they even took him to rodeo events and tethered him to the fence while they performed to get him accustomed to noise and activity. They just had not gotten around to saddling him and breaking him to ride. The family had so many nice horse, sit was decided that he would be taken to the horse auction in Cleburne, Texas. It was there that his fate took a bad turn as a kill buyer for meat was the winning bidder. He would stand for one week in filth at the kill lot waiting for the new owner to build a full load of 60 horses to ship to slaughter in Mexico. Lucky for Picasso we saw him and decided he was a promising canvas for us to paint a new future.

Appointments The Hoofbeats of the Carolina Foothills

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Four River Valley Pony Club riders attain upratings

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

Picasso after two months in HERD

Picasso in the kill pen.

After a quarantine period of six weeks to overcome the respiratory infection he contracted at the kill pen, Picasso went into training. He learned quickly, accepting a rider, and moving around a large, covered arena with many horses also being worked in tandem. Those rodeo days of being exposed to every kind of distraction served him well. Soon Picasso was jumping in fine form. Beth Harrill, his foster trainer took him to Tryon-based trainer Trayce Doubek to video his talents. He jumped around the course in her riding ring like a champion, then took the coop jump out of the ring and tackled the outside eventing course like he had be doing this all his life.

Never a stop, never a hesitation at each new obstacle he encountered. What a horse! This was captured on film along with some stunning photos of Picasso for his advertisement to find a new partner.

Once he was discovered by viewers on the Internet, a total of 30 people in one day contacted us at HERD asking about his adoption particulars. He

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clearly was a coveted find. A lovely young 11-yearold girl, Virginia Brooks, came to try Picasso with her mother at Beth’s farm.

The connection was instant. Virginia rode this horse like the two had been together for a long time.

He sailed over the jumps with her and gave his best at the trot and canter under saddle, too. The Brooks family had to make Picasso a member of their family.

He was truly a hidden masterpiece no more. They spotted what we had seen on that first day.

What is lovely about this true story is, from start to finish, the previous owner of Picasso was so pleased to learn we had saved his horse. He was even more thrilled that his discarded equine had become a young lady’s most valuable treasure to enjoy for eventing and showing. That old saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” surely proved true in this instance. We are as proud as peacocks. Just another accomplishment notched onto my leather girth as the “spokespony” for HERD.

Creamy Cauliflower Casserole Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil 1/4 cup Panko (Japanese style breadcrumbs) 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 large shallot, diced 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons of thyme ½ teaspoon of nutmeg 1 1/2 cups whole milk 1/2 cup heavy cream salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 3 sprigs fresh thyme for garnish

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Panko and 1/4 cup Parmesan; set aside.

Place cauliflower in a steamer basket and set over boiling water. Cover and steam until crisptender, about 4-5 minutes; drain well.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Whisk in flour, thyme, and nutmeg until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated and slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Stir in cauliflower, mozzarella and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan until the cheeses have melted, about 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with Panko mixture.

Place into oven and bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.

Serve immediately, garnished with thyme, if desired. Recipe serves six people.

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Quick Bites

Seasonal Veggies for Cooler Weather

By Jimmi Buell Buying fruits and vegetables in season is more affordable and is a great way to expand your food horizons. Each season brings its own unique foods. So, what does late Fall and Winter have to offer? You might be surprised by the variety.

Since most fruits and vegetables can be found year-round in the grocery store, it can be difficult to determine which ones truly are “in season”.

Most fruits, vegetables, and nuts that are harvested in the fall, such as apples, pecans, and acorn squash, are still readily available and inexpensive during the winter months too. Citrus fruits, as well as pears, mangoes, pineapple and cranberries peak during the holidays and are considered seasonal throughout the Winter. A wide variety of vegetables are also in season this time of year. These include mushrooms, turnips, broccoli and leafy greens with asparagus and spinach showing up before the first signs of spring.

Okay, so maybe these vegetables don’t top your list of favorites. I know it’s hard to beat the taste of fresh tomatoes and corn in the summer, but winter vegetables can be great tasting too. Many people have only eaten winter vegetables prepared one way – boiled. Boiling for a long time makes them mushy and less nutritious. Fortunately, there are many other ways to prepare winter vegetables. Quicker cooking methods, such as roasting, baking and sautéing, are better options. And, of course, many winter vegetables can be eaten raw.

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LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

By experimenting with different cooking methods and seasonings, you may discover some new favorites. Root vegetables like beets, parsnips, and carrots taste wonderful when roasted in the oven. A little olive oil to keep them moist and a little black pepper or an herb blend for a kick of flavor is all you need.

Baking is great for sweet potatoes and any of the winter squash varieties such as acorn, butternut, or Hubbard squash. You might also enjoy baked sweet potato fries or kale chips. Leafy greens are great eaten raw in a salad, but there is another way to enjoy these nutrient-rich winter vegetables: sauté them. It’s quick, easy, and delicious. A little olive oil and whatever seasoning you like - garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, etc. – can make kale, Swiss chard, and other leafy greens scrumptious. When it comes to health benefits, dark leafy greens outshine their pale relatives like iceberg lettuce.

It may seem difficult to keep our resolutions to eat healthy with all the warm comfort foods associated with the winter season. But there are so many fresh fruits and vegetables to be found this time of year to make your plate colorful and nutritious. I hope you will enjoy the best of what the season has to offer.

Roasted Winter Vegetables Ingredients:

Directions:

• 1 lb yams (orange sweet potatoes) - 2 small or one large, peeled • 3/4 lb red potatoes, scrubbed clean but unpeeled • 1/2 lb beets (red or golden), trimmed and scrubbed clean • 1/2 lb large carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise • 1 parsnip medium sized (4-5 oz), peeled and halved lengthwise • 1/2 red onion, peeled • 6 whole large garlic cloves • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme) • 5 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 3 tsp dried rosemary) • 1 tsp ground cumin (can be omitted) • 1 tsp kosher salt or more to taste • 1/4 tsp black pepper or more to taste

Place a rack in the bottom of your oven and preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Slice all vegetables into chunks roughly 1 1/2 inches wide. The more similar the size of the vegetable pieces, the more evenly they will roast.

Place cut vegetables into a large mixing bowl. Add 3 tbsp olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until all vegetables are evenly coated with oil, spice and herbs.

Brush a large rimmed baking sheet with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Spread the vegetables out evenly on the baking sheet.

Place the rosemary sprigs on top of the vegetables, evenly spaced across the sheet.

Roast the vegetables in the oven for 15 minutes. Stir the vegetables, bringing the chunks from the outside towards the center and the chunks in the center out towards the edges.

Return baking sheet to oven and continue to roast until the largest chunks are tender and the edges are starting to turn golden/dark, another 15-25 minutes.

Remove the roasted rosemary sprigs and stir the vegetables (some leaves of rosemary will remain, this is good). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Vegetables can be served warm or at room temperature.

••••

While roasting any vegetable with just olive oil, salt, and pepper is great, I like to throw in one additional flavor element. Here, it’s earthy, fragrant rosemary, which is a natural pairing with root vegetables. Wait until halfway through roasting before adding it so it doesn’t burn in the hot oven.

Quick Bites

Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole Yield 16 servings Ingredients 2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup butter, softened 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans, divided Cooking spray 2 cups miniature marshmallows

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How to Make It Preheat oven to 375°.

Place the sweet potatoes in a Dutch oven, and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until very tender. Drain; cool slightly.

Place potatoes in a large bowl. Add sugar and next 3 ingredients (through vanilla). Mash sweet potato mixture with a potato masher. Fold in 1/4 cup pecans. Scrape potato mixture into an even layer in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.

Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup pecans; top with marshmallows. Bake at 375° for 25 minutes or until golden.

54 McFarland Drive Hwy. 108 Tryon, NC 28782

(828) 859-9341

www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

Life in Our Foothills • 828.859.9151

Marketplace C.N.A $1,000 SignOn Bonus 2nd $2 shift diff 3rd shift $1 shift diff RN/ LPN $2000 SignOn Bonus 7p-7a FT PT 3p-11p and 11p-7a C.N.A II PT Weekends. Please apply in person at Autumn Care of Saluda 501 Esseola St. Saluda, NC 28773.

Bill the Painter for all of your painting needs. Also do drywall repair and wood repair! 32 years experience.

Like Bill the Painter on FaceBook.

828-899-2647 •Builders’ Hardware •Postal Specialties. Visit us at: www.bommer.com.

Bommer Industries, 19810 Asheville Hwy, Landrum, SC, or online: www.bommer.com and Remodeling We have shingles, metal, and rubber also! call David at 828-713-4154

48

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

Epperson’s Tree Service • Complete Tree Service •Dangerous removals •View Cutting •Lot Clearing •Tree Trimming •Crane Removals Serving NC for 25yrs Fully Arborist (828)606-4980 ERIKA BRADLEY, REALTOR® 828.702.5970 YOUR LOCAL REALTOR HELPING YOU BUY/ SELL IN WNC! ERIKAB@C21ML. COM CENTURY 21 MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLES 640 GREENVILLE HWY, HENDERSONVILLE, NC 28792

Gary W. Corn CHHPS Realtor/ Broker 828-817-2580 garywcorn@gmail. com First Real Estate, Inc 2512 Lynn Road Tryon, NC 28782 www.

TryonRealEstate.com Now Accepting Applications for Several Positions • Class A CDL Drivers • Heavy Equipment

Operators • Landscape Supply Yard Associates www.hensonsinc. net Click on Employment Opportunities 828-859-5836

Hospice of the Carolina Foothills is seeking an RN Case Manager Full-Time Salaried position with information, or to apply, please see our ad on Indeed.com or visit our website at www.hocf.org DIXON AC & HEATING • Your HVAC Service & Repair Expert • Serving the Tryon area for 30+ years.

Call (828)863-0555

Call 828-252-0694 or visit us at www. mitchcontracting. com.

Join our growing team! FT/PT opportunities in Weekday/Weekend positions available.

Apply in person: 85 Pinecrest Ln, Tryon or email resume to jobs19@ pinecrestinn.com $10 Off Winter Preventative Maintenance (Reg $75) Rutherford Heating and Air 828-287-2240

Private House Cleaning. Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly or 1 Time. 15 yrs exp. References upon request. Free In-home Estimates!

Marjorie 828-817-6350

Philco’s Pressure Washing Get all the Mold, Mildew, & Oxidation off your house! •Clean Vinyl Siding •Driveways •Sidewalks •Stain & Seal Decks & More!

Liability & Workers Comp 31 years Experience Call To Clean Today!

Phil Tolleson 864-599-1978 or 864-304-8463

Mitch Contracting Serving your demolition needs since 1918. We offer roll-off waste containers for home and commercial use.

POLK COUNTY SCHOOLS •FullTime Custodian/ Bus Driver Tryon Elementary School •Afterschool Group Leaders/All

Schools-$10.00/ hour •Bus Drivers-$13.74/ hour-$14/hour •Substitute Bus Monitors-$11/hour •Food Service Aide Substitute $8.28/ hour Visit: www.polkschools. org/employment Call: 828-894-1001 7-K Garbage Service Monthly • Weekly One Time Service We Pick It Up! 828-894-9948 hyatt2658@yahoo. com Owner Suzette Hyatt Skipper’s Tree Service Free Estimates 25% Senior Discount References Upon Request Now Accepting Visa/ Master Card Check Our Reviews on Google Call: 864-580-3029 SYNERGY IN ACTION FULLTIME & PART-TIME positions available in group homes.

Requirements: •Age 18+ •Valid driver’s license •High school diploma/ GED •Willingness to provide support for adults with disabilities: cooking,

cleaning, attending appointments, shopping, etc.

Night & weekend shifts available.

Competitive pay.

Call 828-859-0259 for information.

Apply in person: 20 Jervey Rd Suite 102, Tryon NC Monday-Thursday 10am-2pm.

TRADEMARK BUILDING SUPPLY. 343 E Mills St. Columbus, NC 28722.

828-229-3160.

From DeWalt Tools to Exterior Products, call or visit Trademark for all of your remodeling and building needs.

Come join the team at White Oak of Tryon.

Competitive pay.

Great environment!

Applications currently accepted at White Oak of Tryon, 70 Oak Street, Tryon, NC 28782.

White Oak of Tryon is an equal opportunity employer.

121 Wilkie Street, Forest City. 2.35 acres with four buildings totaling over 14,500 square feet. Manufacturing/ space, loading docks. $345,000

Properties Unlimited Call 828-287-0750 DC CONCRETE! Concrete, Stucco, Rock, and Remodeling!

Dependable, Reliable, & Satisfaction Guaranteed!

FREE ESTIMATES Call Alex or Dave 828-817-7481 or 828-817-2620 GOOD BY STUMPS Stump Removal Quantity Discounts on 50+ Stumps! As low as $10 each!

Call for pricing.

Fully insured. Free Quotes! Call Ron at 828-447-8775

7675 or apply online at www.drive4jgr. com Granide Stone Works Looking for Laborer at Stone Manufacturing plant. Full-time position available immediately. 40 hours minimum per week. Must be highly motivated.

Call Marty at 864510-1068

Blueridge Buildings looking for Motivated Worker to work on Pole Barn Crew.

Opportunity for growth. Experience not necessary but would be helpful.

Rojas Maintenance Call Marty at & Gardening 864-510-1068 •Spring Clean-up •Tree Trimming TOWN OF TRYON •Landscaping Private apartments •Mulch Services available in historic FREE ESTIMATES!!! area close to TFAC Horacio Rojas & library. Recently 864-518-6793 remodeled. All utilities included.

The Hare & Hound Call or text broker Now hiring for all owner: positions! Please 828-817-0755 apply in person Monday-Friday: For Sale-23 Acres 101 East Rutherford 360-degree view, Street, Landrum SC cleared land.

29356 Hogback Mountain 864-625-2510 Rd, Landrum.

828-817-4970 NOW HIRINGWant to haul big?

Lake Pointe Want to haul heavy? Landing Senior J. Grady Randolph is Living Community now hiring Class A HELP WANTED Flatbed Drivers.

•CNAs •LPNs Call today: 864-849- •Housekeeping

•Receptionist •Security Guard •Activities Assistant •Dishwasher •Cook Apply in Person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville, NC LAND FOR SALE

BY OWNER 308 Clement Rd., Chesnee,SC Excellent rural setting- Secluded, quiet, and private 96.2 acres for retirement, residential or commercial development, farmland, horses, or cattle. Active creek. Trees around perimeter. Fenced area for livestock.

Open area for landing strip, pastures, crops. single or multiple residence(s), outbuildings, barns, or training areas.

Easily accessible via Parris Bridge Road or Highway 11.

Located 10 miles from I-85, 15 miles from I-26, 18 miles from Tryon International Equestrian Center, 30 miles from Greenville Spartanburg International.

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960,000.00 Serious inquiries only Contact: lpspms@ chesnet.net 864-461-2768 Mill Spring Ag Center: Furnished rent $350/month includes high speed internet, utilities, and your own AC call 828-229-5397 #countonmeNC

NOVEMBER 2020

49

Advertiser Index Odean Keever & Associates Real Estate

43

Acts Retirement Life Communities/Tryon Estates 27

Parkside Dental

47

Ashworth Financial

5

Parsec Financial

29

Carolina Storage Solutions

45

Penny Insurance

11

Carruths Furniture

35

Polk County Transportation

11

Cason Builders Supply

47

Ravan Earthworks

17

Claussen Walters

51

ServiceMaster of Polk County

17

Congregational Church of Tryon

15

SG Power & Equipment

43

Densantis Real Estate

50

Southside Smokehouse

38

Dr. Jonathan Lowry, DDS

35

St Luke’s Hospital

Hensons Building Supply

31

Strauss Attorneys

37

Hospice Carolina Foothills

7

The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run

41

Tryon Builders

21

Tryon Concert Association

23

A Growing Concern

JB Trees Lake Pointe Landing

31

50 2

Back page

Landrum Antique & Furniture

39

Tryon Garden Club

21

Landrum Eclectics

31

Tryon Presbyterian Church

37

McFarlands Funeral Home

47

White Oak Village

19

New View Realty

3

Emergency Services Foothills Medical Associates Saluda Family Medicine Rosenberg Bone and Joint St Luke’s Rehabilitation Center St. Luke’s Cancer & Infusion St. Luke’s Urology Associates St. Luke’s Pain Center Radiology Steps to Home Senior Life Solutions Community Alternatives Program

WORKING HARDER to Keep You Healthier

Throughout 2019, The Hospital Assessment of Healthcare Providers and System reviewed 3,478 hospitals across the country and assigned a star rating.

St. Luke’s Hospital is one of only 266 hospitals nationwide to receive the FIVE-STAR recognition for the patient experience!

“We received the 5-star rating because of the promise our staff has made to the community. A promise to approach each patient with consistency, competency, and compassion.”

– Michelle Fortune, CEO

HHHHH (828) 894-3311 SaintLukesHospital.com 101 Hospital Drive Columbus, NC 28722