Summer 2013
Passionate About Pets Issue
Featuring Animal Loving Non-Profits
ALSO INSIDE: A Pet-Friendly Carpet Cleaner ◆ Hotdogs Done Old School ◆ Groomers with Big Hearts ◆ Our Fav Reader Submitted Pet Photos
editor’s letter
h, it’s a hot, hot sum-
O
In Animal House you’ll meet some Anderson pet groomers
mer. Just like our Pas-
who let their customers run wild. Read how Donna, Bonnie and
sionate about Pets Issue
Chris use socialization to produce happy pets.
this month featuring, you guessed
If you have pets in your home, you know about the fur and the
it, our favorite non-human best
smells that can permeate your carpet. We discovered an amaz-
friends. We asked our readers to
ing process unlike conventional carpet cleaning systems that
submit photos of their pets on our
will have your rugs, carpet and upholstery looking, and more
Facebook page, and we were bombarded with the cutest photos of
Sheril Bennett Turner, Editor with Lilly
importantly, smelling like new. Read Tod’s story in Coming Clean with Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning.
puppies and kitties and horses and birds. We even had a mouse,
We couldn’t let our pet theme go to waste, so in this issue
a turtle, a donkey and a zebra. Check out our cover (thanks to
you’ll get the lowdown on some of our town’s most beloved hot
Cecil for the use of his plane ) and Pick of the Litter for some
dogs. Thanks to Joey, Matt, Mike, Wayne and Brad for the sneak
of our favorites.
peek (and some yummy pecks) of the history of their respective
Inside this issue you’ll also discover that sometimes we may
establishments showcased in Hot Diggity Dogs.
think we are saving our animal friends but often they are the
There is no doubt about it, this area is animal crazy in the
ones saving us. Read about just a few of our local animal non-
best possible way. Have a safe and fun Fourth of July and enjoy
profits in People Helping Pets Helping People.
your pet-packed Anderson Life!
If you would like to suggest people to see and places to be in Anderson County, email me at Sheril.Turner@IndependentMail.com.
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table of contents
23 Just For Fun
7 Business Spotlight
They’re All Yours! Reader Submitted Pet Photos
Pet-Friendly Carpet Cleaning with Oxi Fresh!
26 At Home
10 What’s Happening
Calendar of Events for Summer
12 Out & About
P.A.W.S. SCDogs Therapy Group Anderson County Humane Society
33 Home Cooking
Dancing For Our Heroes Mud Endeavor 2013
Pet Treats From Your Own Kitchen? You Bet!
16 Street Talk
How Did You and Your Best (Canine) Friend Meet?
35 Let’s Eat
The Dogs Are Hot At Austins, Skins’ & Pete’s
18 In Fashion Show Off Your Dogs In New Summer Shoes
20 Look Good/Feel Good
It’s An Animal House at Puppy Toes Grooming Shoppe
THE 2013 GLK250 BlueTEC SUV ®
Catherine McConnell (2) cuddles with a fostered kitten at Puppy Toes.
ON THE COVER: Wacko Jacko, a rescue dog from the Anderson County Humane Society, is ready to fly over Anderson with his owner, Shannon Smith. Photograph by John Fowler
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Spa
Anderson Life is published by Scripps Media Inc. d/b/a Independent Mail. Copyright ©2010 Scripps Media Inc. d/b/a Independent Mail. Reproduction whole or part without permission is prohibited. Anderson Life is a registered trademark of Scripps Media Inc. d/b/a Independent Mail. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, Anderson Life cannot be responsible for content, opinions, practices or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos, and text that appear are assumed to be property of the provider and Anderson Life is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement. Anderson Life reserves the right to refuse any advertisement.
Clean
with
business spotlight
Coming
Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning Written by Sheril Bennett Turner | Photographed by John Fowler
A
s animal lovers know, living with furry friends is one of life’s great pleasures. There is nothing like the greeting you get from your pet every time you walk in the door. The flip side of pet ownership can be the accidents, smells, and
flying fur deposited in your home. Thankfully, there is a unique method of professional carpet cleaning that can help. “How often do you lick your hands after walking on carpet?” asks Tod Schmidt, owner of the Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning franchise in Upstate SC. “Well, indoor pets live on the carpet, and clean their paws that way. That’s one reason it’s critical for your carpet cleaner to not only be really effective at thoroughly deep cleaning carpets, but do it in a very safe manner. The agents used must be safe, non-toxic, and thoroughly tested so they don’t interact with other agents. But being pet friendly extends beyond chemistry.
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
7
business spotlight
It also means no doors left open
for hoses,
down the soils in the carpet so they can be released from the
fast dry times so that pets needn’t
be locked
fiber and an oxygenator is used to clean just like Mother Na-
away from the family, and advanced
machines
ture cleans, hence the name Oxi Fresh. The heart of the system,
that reach deep into the carpet pile to remove fur and aller-
“It is entirely different from our competitors who use water
gens, in a fast and quiet
and steam to saturate and force the dirt downward and then try
manner. Oxi Fresh Car-
to suck some of it back up,” Tod explains. “We actually get the
pet Cleaning fulfills all
dirt to release then encapsulate it with a water-born polymer.
of these requirements
Once the dirt is encapsulated, we just lift the dirt out of the car-
which makes it great
pet with our unique machines that remove the dirt by pulling
for pets and people
everything upward, then groom the fibers of the carpet.”
too!” The
Pet owners, especially, benefit from this system, Tod says. chemicals
“We treat the bacteria from pet accidents with a non-pathogen-
used by Oxi Fresh
ic bacillus spore that eats bacteria. As long as you can keep it
are EPA designed
wet it is eating the bacteria in the urine and as soon as it dries,
to be environmen-
it dies. Then I vacuum and it is gone. The bacteria is what you
tally friendly. Active
smell, so if you can kill the bacteria hopefully your cat or dog
bio-enzymes break
8
though, is their encapsulation process.
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Oxi Fresh with Oxi Clean—the oxi solution is similar—but my belief was that’s infomercial stuff, it really doesn’t work. But I really had to evaluate it myself and prove it didn’t work. So I went out as skeptical as anyone, I was certain that all they wanted was my franchise fee. Well, I met the lead team for breakfast,
business spotlight
sure that this was a hoax. I associated
then went out cleaning carpets with the carpet cleaning crews. I cleaned one room and, oh my gosh, you put the solution on and you run that machine and that carpet looks brand new. Truly. I cleaned one room and said this is not a hoax. From then on it was, ‘Can I buy a L to R: Cindy, Katie and Tod Schmidt with their Mountain Cur, Jasper. can’t smell it either and get the idea to go again.”
and start his own business?
franchise?” Tod started his business on October
“About this time last year, I was over-
15, 2012 and is slowly educating the
Founded by Jonathan Barnett and
weight with high blood pressure, mi-
community on his green way of car-
headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Oxi
graines, chest pains, I couldn’t sleep at
pet cleaning. “It is a learning curve for
Fresh is a success story not unlike that
night and I was miserable,” Tod says. “I
our customers to accept that we aren’t
of Frederick W. Smith, founder of FedEx.
had eleven domestic plants and numer-
cleaning their home with 100 gallons of
“FedEx was a college project on how
ous international plants that I took care
water. How can you clean my house with
Smith wanted to do overnight delivery
of. I was paid a lot of money and it was
only one or two gallons? It’s because I’m
and famously his college professor said
killing me. My wife said, ‘You are go-
letting the enzymes work and encapsu-
that it would never work,” Tod explains.
ing to die if you don’t quit, but beyond
lating it. We have a better process than
“Well, Jonathan Barnett’s master’s proj-
that you’re no fun to be around, you’re
anyone. Period. We are a very honest
ect was building this franchise when he
mean and unhappy.’ So, with very little
company, we are really good at clean-
was getting his graduate degree. Now I
thought, I quit my job.”
ing carpets and we are very green. Even
don’t know if his professor said that it
At that point, Tod still had all the bills
wouldn’t work, or if he got an “A” on the
associated with his good paying job, but
project, but in 2006 he was out of school
didn’t want to work for another compa-
Since leaving his high pressure job,
and selling many, many franchises im-
ny for fear of going down the same path.
Tod has lost 35 lbs. and his medical
mediately. Seven years later there are
So, he decided to start his own company.
problems have all but disappeared.
over 200 of us nationwide and we are a
“After evaluating hundreds of pros-
And when he’s not cleaning carpets,
pects, Oxi Fresh was the one that I kept
he spends time with his family—wife
But what motivated Tod, a successful
coming back to, but I was sure it couldn’t
Cindy, daughter Katie (15) and his own
corporate graphics director for a For-
work,” Tod says. “So, I flew to Denver for
pets, dogs Jasper and Jessie and cats,
tune 500 company, to change careers
Discovery Day on a Monday morning,
Newman and Diamond.
very fast growing franchise business.”
the vacuums we use are approved by the American Lung Association.”
Have a Question? Speak to a live representative: Call 1-877-OXIFRESH (694-3737)
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
9
what’s happening
Calendar of Events
LOCAL EVENTS Electric City Playhouse Presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Friday, July 26 This hilarious tale follows six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grownups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser. www.ecplayhouse.com/ calendar
10
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Main Street Program Block Party Main Street, Downtown Anderson Every Thursday, April through October 6pm–9pm A weekly concert series brought to Downtown Anderson by the Main Street Program. For more information visit their Facebook page: www.facebook. com/MainStreetProgram. AndersonSC
XTERRA Table Rock 5K and 15K Table Rock State Park Saturday, August 17 Runners and families are invited to enjoy the great
outdoors on the doorstep of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwest South Carolina. marathonmajic.com
Anderson Area YMCA Presents Midnight Flight 12 Anderson Area YMCA Friday, August 30 Come join us for our annual 1m, 5k or 10k run. There are 3 certified race courses that will be using the ChronoTrack timing system. The races are registered with the Palmetto Grand Prix, The Run & See Georgia Grand Prix and The Running Journal. For more information, call (864) 716-6809 or go to andersonareaymca.org.
what’s happening Jamet Thompson and John Smith of Anderson dance to live music by the Eric Scott Band at the Anderson Block Party.
Photograph by Ken Ruinard
SUMMERTIME ROADTRIPS Greenville, SC Red, White & Blue Festival July 4 5pm to 10:30pm
Showcasing one of the state’s largest fireworks displays, this annual patriotic tradition in downtown Greenville features live musical entertainment, a variety of food and a children’s area at East Broad and Main streets. www.greenvillesc. gov/PublicInfo_Events/ RedWhiteBlue.aspx
Gaffney, SC South Carolina Peach Festival July 11–13 and July 19–20 This fun-filled event includes a family fun fest, parade, BBQ cook-off, road race, car show, a pageant and much, much more! www.scpeachfestival.org
Beaufort, SC 58th Annual Beaufort Water Festival July 19–28
the Fleet, sporting events, crafts, dances, and food. www. bftwaterfestival.com
Pageland, SC Watermelon Festival July 19–20 Don’t miss this All-American festival that includes a parade, seed spittin’ & watermelon eatin’ contests, music, crafts, and rodeo.www. pagelandwatermelonfestival. com
This 10-day event includes music, air show, Blessing of
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
11
out & about
The Rotary Club of Greater Anderson
Dancing for Our Heroes Civic Center, Anderson SC April 19, 2013
Photographs by Rick Caperton
12
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
LIKE US ON SUMMER FACEBOOK! IS HERE AT THE ORIAN RUGS OUTLET!
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Cash & Checks
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
13
out & about
Mud Endeavor 2013
Palmetto Mud Run 5k
McConnell Hall Plantation, Belton, SC
May 18, 2013 Photographs by Sheril Bennett Turner
14
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
In-trigu-ing adj. Interesting, fascinating, absorbing, exciting, engaging, gripping, stirring, stimulating, curious, compelling, amusing, diverting, provocative, beguiling, thought-provoking, titillating, engrossing, tantalizing, captivating; arousing great interest or curiosity.
Deadline: July 15, 2013
is looking for intriguing men to feature in an upcoming issue dedicated to the gentlemen of our community.
Are you or do you know an intriguing local gentleman? Let us know by emailing Sheril.Turner@IndependentMail.com OR on our facebook page at www.facebook.com/AndersonLifeMagazine
Like us on facebook today!
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
15
street talk
Q: “I was looking for a dog so I went to a couple of local shelters. I found Riley at Anderson County P.A.W.S. They had tons and tons of dogs, but I picked her because she was just so quiet and gentle, and because of her eyes. I don’t have a big yard, I live in an apartment, so we come out here almost every day so she can get her exercise.” Jessica Wanthal,
a Clemson student from Normal, IL, with Riley, a Black Lab mix
16
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
How did you and your canine best friend meet In search of doggy diversity, we headed to W.C. Nettles Park on the outskirts of Anderson County in Clemson. Not only does the park have a great fenced in play area just for dogs, for their humans it offers softball, baseball, and soccer fields, tennis courts, a play structure, picnic shelters and restrooms.
“Last summer, I was at a 4th of July party in one of the neighborhoods near here and Zeus showed up. He was very skinny and looked like he might have been hit by a car. I tried finding the owners, but no one turned up, so I couldn’t let him go. Now he’s the best dog ever. If you are holding something he can catch, he will.” Nicolette Terranovo and Kyle Mish, both Clemson students, with her dog Zeus, a Collie/Stafford Terrier mix
“Snicker used to be my daughter’s dog. She rescued him from a kennel then we ended up with him. We’ve had Snicker for about seven years.” Ted Bragg
from Anderson with Snicker, a Mutt
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
17
in fashion
Crow ’s Fe et
p i l n p g i F Roxy
Sa nta Cru z
18
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Crow ’s
Out
Tory Burch
Sanuk
Feet Crow’s
Crow ’s Fe et
ut!
Crow’s Feet
Feet Crow’s
ture Cour c i t s Ru
You know it’s summertime when you’re living in your favorite swim suit or your most comfortable pair of shorts and a tank. Life is easy, breezy and casual when you’re styling in flip flops made for summer fun! Story by Sheril Bennett Turner
Sperry
y err Sp
Coach
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
19
look good/feel good
Animal House Written by Sheril Bennett Turner Photographed by John Fowler
W
ith all the animals running around and playing on top of their crates in-
stead of in them, it might seem like a madhouse at Puppy Toes Grooming Shoppe in Anderson, but it is controlled chaos. Owned by Donna Metz
and her daughter and son-in-law Bonnie and Chris Neuman, Puppy Toes is not only a place to get your pet groomed, it is a place for your animals to socialize and have big fun.
20
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
look good/feel good Jackie gets a good washing from Puppy Toes helper, Zach Campbell.
L to R: Donna Metz, Bonnie Neuman, Trey Campbell, Zach Campbell and Chris Neuman are busy grooming at Puppy Toes in Anderson.
“We opened in this location three years ago in February,” Donna says. “I grew up in kennels and have been grooming for over 40 years. A long time ago, I was playing cards one night and someone called clubs ‘puppy toes’. I thought that would be such a cute name for a groomer. I had just started learning how to groom then, that was back in the early 70s, but the name stuck with me. I opened up a shop in Georgia that I had for ten years before I sold it. It was called Puppy Toes, too.” Daughter Bonnie grew up in the business. “She started when she was ten with me,” Donna says. “She went to college but decided she would rather go into business with me so we opened this shop here. We started out with just the two of us and now we have six employees.”
Bonnie Neuman and Nina the Collie encourage all the dogs at Puppy Toes to socialize.
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
21
look good/feel good Puppy Toes owners Donna Metz and her daughter and son-in-law, Bonnie and Chris Neuman, with some of their furry friends. “I have been grooming ‘officially’ for three years, Bonnie says. “I learned from
have adopted out more than 70 animals
back and she has learned how to walk on
so far.”
grass.”
my mom. Every summer and weekends
In fact, they love animals so much,
Pictured along one whole wall of the
I helped my mother. My husband Chris
Bonnie started her own rescue group
shop are some Puppy Toes favorites.
has worked off and on the last three years
called Little Licks Animal Rescue, work-
“The dogs we groom are amazing,” Bon-
and full time the last year.”
ing primarily with Chihuahuas.
“We
nie says. “We are so attached to many
“It is something I didn’t necessarily
don’t really turn anyone away, but we
of our dogs, we feel like they are ours
plan on doing,” Chris says, “but it is some-
have a thing for Chihuahuas because
sometimes. In fact, the dogs get so excit-
thing that I really enjoy. Before I met my
they are the second most euthanized in
ed when their parents say ‘Puppy Toes’,
wife, I never knew I had the passion for
the shelters,” Bonnie explains. “When
they will follow their owners around the
animals that I do. It has been fun. Grow-
they are in shelters, they are terrified and
house.”
ing up I had very few pets, now we have
the only way they know how to handle
“And some of them will just practically
our herd of our own and we love them.”
that is to be aggressive. When they are
knock the door down coming in,” laughs
aggressive, nobody wants them.”
Donna. “We have these two bulldogs that
In addition to grooming, the folks at Puppy Toes do a lot of rescue work
One of her rescues, Flower, a tiny Chi-
we groom that live in the apartments
with the Anderson Humane Society and
huahua saved from a puppy mill, hap-
behind us. They were out walking with
P.A.W.S. “Every dog that gets adopted
pily watches as the other dogs including
their owner by the pool one day and one
from P.A.W.S. gets a certificate for a free
Donna’s collie Nina play around her. “She
of them, Rambo, got away and ran all the
bath from us,” Donna say. “We really love
looks completely different,” Bonnie says.
way over here and sat by the front door.
to see animals adopted and that is our
“Her ears were eaten by the flies and
I believe the difference is the socializing
way of thanking them. We also foster
she was completely bald. After only a
that we do. It is good for all the dogs, es-
animals including kittens and cats. We
month, though, Flower’s hair has grown
pecially for foster dogs.”
Puppy Toes Grooming Shoppe is open Monday-Saturday starting at 8 a.m. • 1623 E Greenville St, Anderson, SC 29621• (864) 261-6696
22
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
just for fun
Pickof the
Litter
Some of our Favorite Reader Submitter Pet Photos!
Mandy & Benji Owner: Alan and Phiylis Wiety
Oscar Owner: Andrea Talent
Roxy Owner: Carol Pelletier
Digger Owner: Sara and Lynn Hickman
Bella Owner: Angela Fant
Winston Owner: Carol Roux
Marie the Cat and Chester the Turtle Owner: Alexis Justice
Graci Jean Owner: Arhonda M. Rhodes
Cloi Owner: Carole Phillips
Check out more reader submitted pet photos at www.facebook.com/AndersonLifeMagazine!
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
23
just for fun 24
Eby and Emily Owner: Chad McBride
Monster Owner: Cheri Fisher Mann
Eli Owner: Chrystie Read of Lullaby Acres
Abby & Winston Owner: Dawn M Freeman
Peppie Owner: Debbie McShane Heller
Chloe Owner: Sandra Rhodes Elks
Sarah Owner: Diana C. Johnson
Leroy Owner: Dottie Ann James Moon
Ginger Owner: Janice Pridmore
Sox Owner: Jean Fisher
Frisbee Owner: Jim & Gloria Ruggino
Rocket Owner: Jennifer Hall
Paisley Owner: Joan Bruenning
Jericho Owner: Judy B. White
Bitzy Owner: Judy Williams
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Miss Grace Owner: Kelly Koonce
Izzy with Granddaughter Addi Owner: Linda Barnett Eskew
Piggy Owner: Lullaby Acres
Sam2 Owner: Margaret Brabson Hicks
Ike and Mamie Owner: Mary Rowell
Papi Chulo Owner: Shenika Sloan
Scooter Owner: Nelson and Tracy Haynes
Benny Owner: Pat West
Ruby, Bella and Dolly Owner: Patty Langley Cleveland
Dixie Belle and Daisy Mae Owner: Ronda Ashley
Jack Owner: Ronda Ashley and Jody Jones
Brunno Owner: Sharon Nicometo
Donkey Rudy and Zebra Zippy Owner: Vick and Miriam Wooten
Pumpkin Owner: Steve Kiemele
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
just for fun
Sophie Owner: Kaye Hayden Lollis
25
at home
PeopleHe
Pet Helpi Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That’s the problem.
Photo by Randi Leigh Knox
26
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh
at home
Helping
ets pingPeople A
nderson has a big heart for
fall in love with and adopt these pets.
animals. There are numerous
Others train and use animals to help
non-profits
individual
people with disabilities or those who just
rescue groups that look out for and help
need a little unconditional love. Here are
protect our domestic and wild animals.
just three local organizations trying to
There are also countless individuals who
make a difference in the lives of our pets
volunteer in shelters, rescue strays, foster,
and people.
and
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
27
at home Jessica Cwynar, Director of P.A.W.S. in Anderson, with husband Andy and “children” Oscar and Five-o.
P.A.W.S. (Pets Are Worth Saving) Written by Jessica Cwynar, Director Photographed by Randi Leigh Knox Anderson County PAWS is an open admission animal shelter for Anderson County Residents to turn in stray or personal animals. Anderson County PAWS works with mostly canines and felines, but we do have the occasional domesticated bird, hamster, guinea pig, or rabbit. I had always been around animals since I was a child, but
P.A.W.S. helps dogs and cats like these find loving “forever” homes.
I started working with large animal populations while in college at Clemson University. Right now my pets include Smokey, an 8-year-old black cat, Oscar, a 6-year-old boxer/lab, Five-O, a 5-year-old Shar-pei mix, and Rueben, a 1-year-old Yorkie mix.
tailers in the Upstate. PAWS takes in more than 10,000 animals every year. The goal at P.A.W.S. is to find loving homes for the homeless animals in
The best part of working with P.A.W.S. is seeing members
our care. Volunteers can help P.A.W.S. by walking dogs, socializ-
of the community coming into P.A.W.S. to adopt. The most re-
ing cats, taking pictures with our rescue coordinator, assisting
warding aspect of the job is seeing animals getting adopted and
in animal husbandry, etc. We are always in need of kitten and
our live release rate increase.
puppy food. We mainly use Purina or Pedigree dry and can food
Many retailers and organizations locally and nationally pro-
to keep from upsetting the digestive tract. Other donations we
vide funds and/or donations to PAWS. We also put on events for
are in need of are blankets, HE laundry detergent, towels and
adoption onsite and at remote locations and have done events
dawn dish detergent.
like Adoptathon at a Jet Ski competition and PetSmart National Adoption Weekend, as well as monthly adoption events at re
Financial donations are also accepted. They can be mailed to our business address listed below or hand delivered.
Anderson County PAWS • 1320 Hwy 29 South, Anderson SC 29626 • (864) 260-4151 • www.petango.com/andersoncountypaws or www.andersoncountysc.org/pets
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
at home
Wilson from SCDogs Therapy being loved on by his B.A.R.K. little boy.
SCDogs Therapy Group Written by Connie Compton, President Photographed by Patricia Carter SCDogs Therapy Group, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organiza-
SCDogs Therapy animal, Hunter, getting a pat at the Teddy Bear Clinic.
tion that began in 2001 to bring animal assisted activities to those in need. We have over 80 volunteers and their wide vari-
we come in. Some say our visit is the best part of their day.
ety of pets, including rabbits and dogs. Volunteer teams partici-
One of my favorite stories is from one of my first visits. As I
pate in animal assisted activities in nursing homes and schools,
took my Golden Retriever, Amos, into the activity room, one
Hospice, camps, mental health facilities, and much more. We
gentleman smiled and told me that Amos looked like old Red.
work closely with many elementary schools using our B.A.R.K.
I asked him if he had once had a dog named Red. He said that
(Books and Reading Kids) program, reading with students to
Red was a stowaway on the ship with Admiral Byrd on one of
provide extra encouragement. We participate in many com-
his polar explorations. I listened to his story of how he and his
munity events such as festivals and parades. We bring happy,
ship mates had hidden Red for the entire trip and upon return-
wagging tails with our furry friends and leave behind lots of
ing to the U.S. had found a home for Red. I wasn’t sure if the
smiling faces.
story was actually true, but the activity director assured me
My pets include Amos a 14-year-old Golden Retriever, Flint a 5-year-old Golden Retriever, and Liberty a 6-year old Dutch
that the gentleman had actually sailed with Admiral Byrd and had many unusual stories.
Rabbit. I have always had pets but became interested in ther-
We have a waiting list of facilities who would love to have our
apy dogs after I saw how much my father-in-law, who was di-
teams visit and always need more volunteers who would like to
agnosed with Alzheimer’s, was affected by having my dog near
share their dog and bring lots of joy to others. We also have a
him. He became much calmer and more focused to his sur-
dinner/silent auction every other year to cover the costs of the
roundings. The best part of my job is the visits to the assisted
group and our insurance policy.
living and nursing homes. So many residents have to leave their pets behind and I never tire of seeing their faces light up when
People can volunteer, help or donate to our organization by visiting our website.
SCDogs Therapy Group, Inc. • P O Box 12345, Sandy Springs, SC 29677 • (864) 287- 1919 • www.SCDogs.org
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
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at home
Anderson County Humane Society Written and Photographed by Shelley Burgins, Anderson County Board Member since 2002 The Anderson County Humane Society is a private, not-forprofit animal welfare organization. An all-volunteer Board of Directors governs our organization. Our mission is to improve the quality of life of animals in the Anderson County Area. We accomplish this mission through various programs, activities, and events.
ANDERSON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY PROGRAMS Adoptions
We pull hundreds of animals for the P.A.W.S. shelter and place them in loving homes. The animals are kept in individual foster homes until they are adopted. The Anderson County Humane Society does not euthanize any animals. However, many wonderful animals have to be turned away due to the limited number of foster homes.
Pet Food Bank
Thanks to the generosity of local Walmart stores and the community, we are able to provide dog and cat
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
food to the Good Neighbor cupboard. They distribute the food to families who are struggling to feed their pets.
Hotline
The hotline is a voice mail message system monitored daily by all Humane Society volunteers to provide a point of contact for animal related issues. If you have an emergency, the hotline will direct you on whom to call.
Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic
In 2010, we opened the first low cost
clinic open to all residents in the upstate. We provide spay and neuter services for a reduced fee to low income families. Since our grand opening, we have fixed over 10,000 cats and dogs.
Medical Care for Injured and Abandoned Animals In 2012, we spent over $39,000 in providing medical care for abandoned, injured, sick and abused animals. All of the medical funds were collected through membership drives and fundraisers.
noise. I looked in a bin and to my surprise saw two gorgeous
my first stray cat, which was actually the neighbors pet. Now I
healthy 5-week-old kittens staring back at me. Apparently a fe-
have three dogs: Henry, a retriever mix, Noel, a hound mix and
ral cat that had been hanging around gave birth to them in the
Punkin, a basset hound. All three were rescued from local shel-
bin and had been hiding them. Surprisingly they weren’t scared
ters. I also have 10 cats, all of which were pulled from shelters
of me, and got great forever homes. Yes, I eventually caught the
when they were abandoned there as orphans.
feral and got her spayed.
The best part of my job is when I adopt an animal out and
Volunteers of all ages are always welcomed. Donations of cat
the new family sends me pictures of their new baby. My favorite
and dog food and supplies for our clinic are also appreciated.
rescue story is a couple years ago I kept hearing rustling noises
Financial donations can be mailed to our PO Box or transacted
in my garage and I thought it was opossums. Each week the
through our website.
noises got louder and louder. Finally I pulled all the boxes and bins out of the garage to find what on earth was making that
at home
I started rescuing animals when I was 6 and dragged home
ACHS • PO Box 2262, Anderson SC 29622 • (864 )225-9844 (main number) or (864) 367-7220 ( spay neuter clinic) • www.achsonline .com
Just a few of the animals that have been rescued by the Anderson County Humane Society.
Education
We provide public speaking, staffing for educational exhibits, networking with schools, and writing about humane education issues.
Legislative Support
We participate by lobbying and educating local and state representatives about the need for stronger animal welfare legislation. IMPROVE THE PLIGHT OF HOMELESS PETS BY VOLUNTEERING FOR ONE OF OUR PROGRAMS.
Foster care: We provide food and medical care. Fosters provide love, safety, exercise, and attention until the pet can be placed in a forever home. Adoption program: Assist us with our permanent adoption center for cats and weekly dog adoption events at Petsmart. Fundraising: We are always striving to create clever ways to raise money for our programs. We need help with car washes, adoptathons, hot dog sales, raffles, garage sales, marketing pro-
grams and more. This is a great opportunity for families, girl/boy scout troops, youth groups and civic organizations to give back to our community. All ages welcome. Education: You can help with public speaking, staffing educational exhibits, networking with schools, and writing about humane education issues. Legislative Support: Participate by lobbying and educating local and state representatives about the need for stronger animal welfare legislation.
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
31
at home
TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE DURING WARM WEATHER As we prepare for the Fourth of July weekend, The Humane Society of the United States reminds everyone to keep pets safe during the warm months ahead. “Summer is the perfect time to enjoy being with your pets,” said KC Theisen, director of pet care issues at The Humane Society of the United States. “But it’s important to keep your pets’ ID tags current in case they get lost, and beware of dangers associated with the warm weather, like hot pavement, hot cars and garden chemicals. With just a few extra precautions, you and your four-legged family members can have a happy and safe sun-filled season.” The HSUS offers a few tips to keep your pets safe and healthy during summer: SAFER SUMMER OUTINGS • Leaving any pet—dog, cat, rabbit, etc.— alone in a parked car during warm weather can be deadly. On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. On an 85 degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car, even with the windows cracked open, can reach 102 degrees within just 10 minutes, and after 30 minutes the temperature will reach 120 degrees. Even when the temperature outside is a balmy 72 degrees, the temperature inside your car can rocket to a fatal 116 degrees in less than an hour. • Your four-legged friend needs exercise too. However, exercising in the summer heat can be just as uncomfortable for your pet as it is for you. Take your walks in the early mornings or late evening, not in the heat of midday, and remember that hot pavement can burn the pads of your pet’s paws. • Keep your pet inside moving cars whenever you travel. A carrier is the safest place for your cat. Letting your dog travel with his or her head outside the open car window is dangerous—flying particles and debris can cause eye damage, and some pets have actually fallen out of moving vehicles. And dogs should
never ride unsecured in the back of pickup trucks, regardless of how slow you are moving. ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS • Heartworms, ticks and fleas are more of a problem in warmer months and can cause serious health problems. Contact your veterinarian about products that will keep your pet healthy and parasite free • Avoid using cocoa mulch, pesticides, fertilizers and other gardening products that can pose hazards to pets, and encourage your neighbors to do the same
treat for dogs, eating too many can cause digestive upset AVOID LOSING YOUR PETS: • Check that your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are current, and that their collar is secure. Tags and microchips are life preservers in the event you lose a pet, and will allow whoever finds your pet to notify you quickly • Keep your cats safe and content indoors by providing them with cat grass and window perches that bring the great outdoors inside. Or consider screening in a porch or outdoor patio where you can allow your kitty some safe outdoor time.
Photographed by John Fowler Doggie friends Riley, Snicker, Zeus and Leah playing in the stream at the dog park within Nettles Park in Clemson, SC. • Summertime can also bring major weather events like hurricanes and tornados. Remember, never leave your pets behind – if conditions aren’t safe for you, they are not safe for your pets. Visit humanesociety.org/disaster for tips on disaster preparedness • Sunburn is a hazard for pets that spend time outdoors. Use a pet-safe sunscreen to protect your pet from the sun’s harming rays, which can cause skin cancer especially of the ears and nose • While cicadas may be a tempting
Also, cats can be trained to “walk” on a harness (never just use a collar and leash or tie your cat out), allowing you both to enjoy a little more leisure time in the yard • Common summer noises like fireworks and thunder may startle pets. For many animal shelters, the day after a town fireworks display is one of the busiest days of the year, as family pets become lost fleeing the sounds. Before a storm or fireworks display, bring your pet indoors or put him/her on a leash or secure tether.
For more pet health and safety tips visit humanesociety.org/pets. Article courtesy of The Humane Society of the United States.
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
home cooking
MAKE YOUR OWN
Pet Treats! Shredded Roast Chicken with Stuffing Submitted by Cary Moran of Pennsylvania (1) 5 to 8 pound oven roaster chicken 1 sweet potato, cooked and mashed 1 cup oatmeal 6-8 egg shells, boiled, dried, and crushed (to provide bone meal) 1 cup cooked spinach 1 tablespoon rosemary 1 teaspoon sea salt (not table salt) 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 cup water (1) 12 ounce can low sodium chicken broth or vegetarian vegetable broth 4 tablespoons of unbleached flour
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Rinse the chicken and pat dry. To make stuffing: In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, oatmeal, dried egg shell, and spinach. Combine rosemary, sea salt and parsley and rub on the chicken. Stuff chicken. Place chicken in a shallow roasting pan with one cup of water and one cup of either low sodium chicken broth or vegetarian vegetable broth, saving four ounces to make a gravy. Cover with aluminum foil and cook for 1 hour. Remove foil and begin basting every 10 to 15 minutes. Using a cooking thermometer inserted at the thickest part of the chicken, cook until the internal temperature reaches 180 degrees and juices run clear. Let chicken stand for 10 minutes and whisk remaining juices with flour to make a gravy. Scoop out stuffing and set aside. Once the chicken cools to a comfortable handling temperature, remove chicken from the bones and shred. Mix shredded chicken, stuffing, and gravy and refrigerate in an airtight container. Use it as a topping for dry food, or temporarily as a food replacement.
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
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home cooking
Cheese Balls
Submitted by Kellyann Conway of Florida 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated 1 cup cottage cheese 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 / 3 cup chopped nuts Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl, mix the cheddar cheese and cottage cheese, then add the vegetable oil and Worcestershire sauce. Very slowly, mix in the flour. Mix until you see that the dough can easily be molded. Divide the dough into bite-sized balls about the size of a marble, then roll the balls in the chopped nuts. Arrange the balls on a cookie tray.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix the flour and milk until lumpy, then add the peanut butter and water. Mix in the parmesan cheese and then add the egg white. The mixture should have the consistency of pancake batter. Add the baking powder. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray and spoon the batter onto it in approximately two inch blobs. Bake for about 20 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown. Let them cool and serve ‘em up!
Doggone Birthday Cake
Submitted by Jennifer Latshaw of Pennsylvania
Super Simple Yum Drops
1 ½ cups all- purpose flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ¼ cup margarine, softened ¼ cup corn oil (1) 3 ½ ounce jar strained beef (baby food) or strained chicken 1 cup shredded carrots 3 eggs 2 strips bacon, fried and crumbled, or dog beef jerky Plain yogurt or cottage cheese for icing.
3 jars baby food meat (or vegetables) 1-½ cup wheat germ (or cream of wheat) 1 egg
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour an 8- inch round pan. Cream butter until smooth. Add corn oil, baby food, eggs, and carrots. Mix until smooth. Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth. Fold in crumbled bacon (or beef jerky). Pour batter into cake pan. Bake 60 to 70 minutes, depending on your oven-surface of the cake should be springy to the touch. Let cool. Top with plain yogurt or cottage cheese. Refrigerate any remaining portions.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until cheese balls are golden brown. Make sure they are completely cool before giving them to your pooch, and store any leftovers in a covered container in the fridge.
Submitted by Kristi Simmons of Texas An easy microwaveable treat for busy people who still want to cook for their furry companions!
In a bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. For the micro wave: Drop by spoonfuls on a wax paper covered plate and cover with wax paper. Cook on high in micro wave for 5 to 8 minutes or until treats are formed and firm. For the oven: Drop by spoonfuls on a nonstick cookie tray. Bake at 300 degrees for about 50 minutes. Let cool completely before giving them to your pup. Store in refrigerator in an airtight container. Editor’s Note: Read the label of the baby food jars to be sure the contents don’t contain garlic, garlic powder, or onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs.
PB and Cheese Biscuits
Submitted by Kellyann Conway of Florida 1 cup flour 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons peanut butter 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (organic, natural, or sugar- free are best for your pup) 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 egg white 1 tablespoon of water
Editor’s Note: Read the label of the baby food jars to be sure the contents don’t contain garlic, garlic powder, or onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs.
“Peamutt” Butter and Pumpkin “Pupcakes” Submitted by Gina Moultrie of Nevada 2-½ cups water ½ cup canned pumpkin 1 egg (slightly beaten) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ cup peanut butter (chunky) 3-½ cups whole wheat flour ½ cup oats 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon cinnamon Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix water, pumpkin, egg, vanilla, and peanut butter. In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, baking powder, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix wet and dry ingredients together and stir well. Spoon into a greased mini-muffin pan, making sure each cup is filled completely and piled high. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until firm (but not too brown). Cool completely and store in an open container or paper bag in the refrigerator. Makes 30 mini pupcakes.
These recipes are an excerpt from Petfinder.com’s The Adopted Dog Bible available at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com. Petfinder is an online, searchable database of animals who need homes. It is also a directory of more than 13,000 animal shelters and adoption organizations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Organizations maintain their own home pages and available-pet databases. www.petfinder.com
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
tioned atmosphere while you hang out with old friends and new. Whether you like your dogs “all the way,” topped with slaw, or even deep-fried with onion rings, you can’t go wrong with these three home-
let’s eat
Summertime’s here and it’s time to grab a hot dog and a sweet tea and maybe even some air condi-
town favorite restaurants known far and wide for their unique take on an American favorite.
Hot diggityDogs
Pete’s special hotdogs, Front: Chili Dog and L to R: Bird Dog, Slaw Dog, Southside of Chicago Dog and Onion Ring Dog.
Written by Sheril Bennett Turner • Photographed by John Fowler
Pete’s on Concord A local Anderson hangout, Pete’s on Concord serves a little
second anniversary.
bit of everything, but is known for having some of the best hot
“We are doing well,” Brad says. “It was such a benefit to
dogs in town. Now in its 26th year of business, Pete’s was once
have an existing clientele and a staff already in place. Earl has
owned by George Rozakos, whose family was famous in the
been here since the day the doors opened more than 25 years
area for their family-friendly restaurants. After his death, Brad
ago, Michelle has been here for 18 years, and I have another
Tarbert purchased the business and last April celebrated their
waitress who has been here for 14 years. It wasn’t a start-up; it
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
35
let’s eat
was a business the day I took it over so it made it easier.”
“We added a few things to the menu,” Brad says, “but it has
In addition to their regular hot dog served on a steamed
been working for 25 years so I didn’t have to change a lot. All
bun and topped with homemade chili made from the same
off our meats are fresh, never frozen. Even our onion rings are
secret recipe handed down from
hand sliced and hand battered.
George’s family, in the summer-
We do things like they did 40 or 50
time Pete’s offers a specialty hot
years ago. Simple and great.”
dog menu called appropriately,
The atmosphere itself is remi-
Dog Days of Summer. Some of the
niscent of a 50s diner with old
more popular include:
license plates, signs and school
Onion Ring Dog - Take the hot-
memorabilia decorating the walls.
dog and slide onion rings on it and
There are even stools if you enjoy
deep fry the whole thing. Serve
eating at the counter.
with homemade Thousand Island
“A lot of time was spent giving
dressing.
this whole building a lot of char-
Southside of Chicago Dog –
acter,” Brad explains. “There are
Served with lettuce and toma-
some neat things in here. I didn’t
toes, onions, mustard, celery salt, chow-chow and pickle spear.
Pete’s on Concord owner Brad Tarbert (Center) with long-time employees Earl Brown and Michelle Anderson.
Funky Chicken Dog - A hotdog
change a lot. One of our logos says, ‘Tradition is everything’. We have a way that we do things, custom-
bun with American cheese, bacon, chicken fingers and home-
ers expect a certain way when they come in here. If you deviate
made Honey Mustard.
you lose what’s been built for 25 years.”
Pete’s On Concord is located at 111 Concord Rd, Anderson, SC 29621 • (864) 226-7383
The Original Skins’ Hot Dogs Situated in a quiet old neighborhood in Anderson, The Origi-
by law he had to sell the business to get Social Security. He said
nal Skins’ has been a landmark since 1946 when it was just a
he had worked too hard not to draw Social Security so he gave
little local pool hall. Known all over the country for their good
25% of the business to each of us, but my older brother decided
old fashioned southern hot dogs, today Skins’ is run by brothers
he didn’t want in. My brother Mike started first, then Wayne
Matt and Mike Thrasher and their brother-in law, Wayne Har-
came in then I came in. In the first year that we ran the busi-
bin.
ness, we doubled our business. One particular day, I remember
My father, Lloyd “Skin” Thrasher, started the original Skins’
we had 500 hot dogs on the board to go before we even started.
in 1946 after he came back from the war,” Matt Thrasher says.
My dad came in and he was fit to be tied. He thought we were
“At that time, he sold a little bit of everything; hot dogs, ham-
going to ruin the business, but we got the 500 out plus served
burgers, anything he could sell. In the 70s, he started to sell
everyone else and that was it.”
just hot dogs because that was what people had a preference
The business prospered so much the brothers soon opened
for. My brothers and I started out of here in about 1985/1986.
a second location in the Market Place Shopping Center in An-
The rule was that we couldn’t work in Skins’ until we had a col-
derson. Today there are twelve locations in Anderson, Clemson,
lege degree. We all have different backgrounds; mine is in com-
Seneca, Easley, Mauldin, Greenville, and Greenwood and their
puter science, my little brother Mike’s is in quality control and
kids and grandkids help run the family business. “We never go
Wayne’s is in production.”
up on our price, and the only reason we expand is to keep our
“What happened,” Matt continues, “was that I was sitting in Columbia and my father wanted to sell the business. Back then,
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
price down,” Matt says. “We figured out a long time ago that the more we sell, the cheaper it is.”
let’s eat
Skins’ is well known for their dogs “all the way” and their homemade coleslaw and chocolate cake.
Skin Thrasher passed away in 1998, but Matt claims that their
with a laugh, “and we don’t mix hot and cold. We are from the
hot dog has not changed since their father’s day. “The weenie is
old school, hot is hot and cold is cold.” Also on the menu is their
specially made for us by Greenwood Packing, Carolina Pride.
famous chocolate cake gleaned from a neighbor lady who lived
We have been with them so long
down the street from them.
that my daddy bought from the
“When we started the business,”
Barnettes and my brothers and
Matt says, “I had one kid, Mike had
I bought from the sons. Now
two, and Wayne had two. Now there
we are buying from the grand-
are 32 of us in the immediate family,
sons. The chili is a family reci-
including my mother who kept the
pe—100% ground beef and you
books and until last year was still
can taste the difference. It is the
active in the business. We are on
same quality as in 1946. We have
our fourth generation so it is really a
not changed anything, even in
family business and we really enjoy
this economy. We could put out
working together. We close the week
a cheaper hot dog but we refuse
of the Fourth of July and, for the last
to. We have this high standard
27 years, we’ve even vacationed to-
with our hot dogs and we refuse
gether. And the others who run the
to accept anything less.”
business for us have been with us so
You can get a Skins’ dog topped with your favorites or “all the way” with mustard, on-
long they are like family. ” Skins’ owners Matt Thrasher, Wayne Harbin and Mike Thrasher show off their famous dogs.
ions and chili. Their homemade
“We are now serving our fifth generation of Skins’ customers. We just want to thank everyone for sup-
coleslaw is served on the side. “We will not put it on there for
porting us since 1946; the last 26 years especially have been very
two reasons. Daddy would roll over in his grave,” Matt explains
good for us. I think my father would be really, really proud.”
Lloyd “Skin” Thrasher got his famous nickname when as a child he smarted off to his older brother. The brother, a barber, tied young Lloyd down to a chair and shaved all his hair off. Legend has it that after seeing her baby “skinned” their 6 foot mother took a baseball bat and cleaned out the barbershop. From then on, Lloyd was the only “Skin”. The Original Skins’ Hot Dogs is located at 203 Hudgens Street, Anderson, SC 29621 • (864) 225-9229 • www.skinshotdogs.com
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
37
let’s eat
A local favorite, Austins serves up a mean Slaw Dog, Chili Dog and Cheese Dog.
Austins Hot Dogs Tucked into a little family-owned and family-friendly shopping center on the south side of town in Anderson, Austins Hot Dogs is owned by Joey Hawkins who has been serving up his tasty dogs for the last 24 years. “I grew up doing this kind of work,” he says. “My dad had a little restaurant off I-85 in the 60s and 70s and I worked for him. I started working behind the counter in the 6th grade, worked throughout junior high all the way up into high school. I went and did some other things, and then when I was about 32, I started this business here.” Decorated with an eclectic mix of old signs, framed t-shirts and a wall of wacky clocks, Austins offers hot dogs “all the way” with mustard, onions and chili or Joey Hawkins, owner of Austins Hot Dogs, serves with a smile and southern hospitality.
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Anderson Life • Summer 2013
topped with cheddar cheese or slaw. This simple but homemade menu has led to Austins’ success.
is good help. I have a good crew right now—Margaret has been
lar around the Carolinas. 95% of our dogs go out of here with
with me for about 18 years—and I am so thankful for it. Our
chili on them, and we make our own signature chili daily from
competition has about a dozen restaurants but I’m a hands-on
good cuts of beef. We use a split, top slice hotdog bun and we
guy and I don’t want another place. I know I could do real well
make our own finely ground coleslaw, which makes a good
with another place, at least on the other side of town because
topping. We hand chop our own onions, we do not get them
we are well known, but I just don’t want to be that stretched
pre-chopped, and we are probably the only ones who use white
out. “
onions. They are more expensive but they are drier and easier to
Joey likes to support his loyal customers by contributing to
work with and they are great. We must go through a 50lb bag
local charities with product giveaways and coupon cards. This
every week.”
year also marks the 3rd year Austins will be sponsoring The
Austins also offers canned drinks, chips, packaged ice cream
Homeland Park Fire Department’s Hot Dog eating contest.
bars, and their famous sweet tea. “We are very well known for
“Three fourths of the people who come in here are regulars,”
our sweet ice tea. We make it one gallon at a time and we are
Joey says. “It would astound you how often some people can eat
making it constantly, especially around holidays.”
hotdogs. I’m talking daily and I’m thankful for them. And the
Joey credits his employees, and having only one location, with the great service Austins is known for. “The key to my success
let’s eat
“Our weenie is a beef/pork combination which is popu-
people who come in here who have never tried us? They will come back.”
Austin’s Hotdogs is located in Watson Village Shopping Center • 110 E Shockley Ferry Rd, Anderson, SC 29624 • (864) 224-8788
Since 1989
Famous for the BEST Carolina Style Hot Dogs and our Sweet Iced Tea For nearly 25 years! Dine In or Carry Out
864-224-8788 Joey Hawkins Owner Operator
110-A E. Shockley Ferry RD Watson Village Shopping Center • Anderson, SC 29624 Open MON-SAT 11am-7pm
Anderson Life • Summer 2013
AIM94685
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AIM94762