Foothills Magazine, August 2018, Tryon Newsmedia

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2018

Grace

and beauty

Columbus woman hitting the high note in singing, fitness

AUGUST 2018

FUN ON THE FIELD

Local children get a chance to play, learn at annual soccer camp $4.95 1 August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

MAKING IT HAPPEN

Volleyball club giving small-town girls big-town opportunities

SWEAT AND SWEETS Saluda bakery a legendary destination for cyclists

13th Annual Ache Around the Lake

8K RUN & WALK Saturday, September 22, 8 a.m.

All proceeds benefit St. Luke’s Hospital’s ICU Family Room

Ache Around the Lake is a family fun event including an 8k road race around Lake

Lanier (Ache) and a 2-mile fun run/walk! (Ouch)

Open to all runners, walkers, strollers and your canine friends on a leash!

• Pre-registration $25, race day registration $30 • Professionally timed • Online registration • Race day registration 6:30 - 7:30 am • Race begins promptly at 8 am

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8K Awards Top 3 Overall & Masters 1st Place Awards for Age Groups Top Dog Award

Visit www.itsabouttime.run/achelake to register!

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE Call (828) 894-2693 for questions.

Please join us!

Join us for an evening to celebrate equines and the Humane Society of the United States' Equine Protection program.

Saturday, September 15, 2018 5–6 p.m. | Private sanctuary tours 6-8 p.m. | Reception The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run 319 Blackwood Road Columbus, North Carolina Cost for the event is $50 per person.

To register, visit Humanesociety.org/CelebrateEquines.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact Melanie Wong at mwong@humanesociety.org.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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White OakVillage-Tryon Retirement Community

70 Oak Street, Tryon, NC (828)859-5871 www.whiteoakmanor.com

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independent living apartments

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

assisted living

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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WELCOME

Getting active, staying fit

T

AUGUST 2018

he wonders of modern technology has done much to make our lives easier and richer.

Who doesn’t love having the ability to make

video calls to loved ones from anywhere on planet or to order a book or kitchen utensil and have it show up on their doorstep the next day?

However, our digital obsession has also done much to keep us chained to our couch, binge watching the latest season of “Stranger Things” or scrolling through our Facebook feeds on our phones, clicking the little thumbs up icon below every post with pictures of smiling babies or videos of puppies chasing their own tails.

Even with the allure of streaming video and social media constantly trying to pull us back in front of the flat-screen TVs in our living rooms and smartphones in our pockets, there remains a force that, for many, is just as magnetic and powerful — the fresh air and sunny skies of the outdoors.

Indeed, all one has to do is drive by Harmon Field in Tryon or travel up U.S. 176 toward Saluda during the summertime to see the effects that the great outdoors has on locals. You will see cyclists making the long, arduous climb up the mountain or joggers looking to get a little exercise after work with a quick jog around the park.

In this issue of Foothills Magazine, we are focusing on stories about the many forms that sports and fitness take in our community, such as the popular Kirby Cup camp that gives children a chance to play soccer — and learn more about cultures and customs from countries halfway around the globe. In another feature, you can read about a Columbus woman who has spent years perfecting her voice in operas across the country, who is now honing her skills in another venue — the yoga studio.

Read on to discover more about a local volleyball club that — through the cooperation of some dedicated parents, coaches and others in the community — is giving teenagers opportunities typically only found in larger cities, and about a Saluda bakery that has become such a popular destination for area cyclists that there is an entire bike route based around it.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue, and maybe find some inspiration to get out and get active yourself!

Ted Yoakum, Managing Editor ted.yoakum@tryondailybulletin.com

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

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Managing Editor Ted Yoakum Marketing Magan Etheridge Trish Boyter Production Gwen Ring Distribution Jeff Allison Jamie Lewis Alex Greene Administration Samantha Willis Contributors Jimmi Buell Julie Carroll Michelle Fleming Catherine Hunter Andy Rhinehart Mark Schmerling Vincent Verrecchio Renae Waldman Steve Wong

on the cover

and bea

2018

6

Grace AUGUST

Foothills Magazine is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Foothills Magazine 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, Foothills Magazine, 16. N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782, or email to ted.yoakum@ tryondailybulletin.com. Foothills Magazine is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and the upstate of South Carolina, and online at TryonDailyBulletin.com, and on Facebook@FoothillsMag. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $35 per year by calling 828859-9151. To advertise, call 828-859-9151.

H FOOT

General Manager Kevin Powell

T AND SWEA TS SWEE endary ery a leg Saluda bak for cyclists destination

Columbus’ Lori Corda practices her yoga outside her studio. Read more about how the woman is working to perfect her skills, both on the mat and on the stage, in one of this month’s feature stories, beginning on page 24. Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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INSIDE

24 50

1210

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SOCIAL LIFE

10 August calendar of events

FOOTHILLS FAMOUS 12 Coon Dog Day Festival 14 TFAC art education tour

COLUMNS 46 Let’s Eat

Refreshing drinks to quench summertime thirst 48 Much Ado A tribute to the Tryon Theatre 60 Pebbles August & Strangers No More

FEATURES

16 GOOOOOOOAL

Children learn more about soccer, the world, at annual camp 24 In the zone with a soprano yoga teacher Be it through song or meditation, local woman always seeking to improve 8

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

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SERVICE

30 Difference Maker

High school baseball coach leads team to record-breaking season 33 Club Corner Polk County Volleyball Club a labor of love for the community

FOOD

40 Food in the Foothills

A Saturday morning tradition of sweat and sweets

APPOINTMENTS 50 Buying your first horse

Buy with your head, not your heart 55 Reining A legacy of the old West

PARTING GLANCE 66 Fun and freedom

Hundreds flock to downtown Columbus for Fabulous Fourth festival

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SOCIAL LIFE

Spring Hunter Pace and Trail Ride held at Foothills Equestrian Nature Center. Photo courtesy of Lou Smith

August Friday, Aug. 3 SUMMER TRACKS CONCERT GIGI DOVER & THE BIG LOVE 7 to 10 p.m.

Rogers Park 55 W. Howard St., Tryon Summertracks.com Saturday, Aug. 4 EVENING IN THE RAMBLAS OF BARCELONA 6 to 8 p.m.

Tryon International Equestrian Center 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring Tryon.coth.com Saturday, Aug. 4 MUSIC AT THE TRACKS SPECIAL EDITION 7 to 10 p.m.

Landrum Depot North Trade Avenue, Landrum Cityoflandrumsc.com Thursday, Aug. 9 FOR THE LOVE OF BATS 6 to 7 p.m.

Landrum Library 111 Asbury Drive, Landrum Spartanburglibraries.org 10

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

Summer Tracks, 55 Howard St., Tryon

Tuesday, Aug. 14 FENCE MUSHROOM HIKE 10 a.m. to noon Foothills Equestrian Nature Center 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon Fence.org

Sunday, Aug. 19 FAMILY CONCERT WITH JIM AVETT 4 to 5 p.m.

Foothills Equestrian Nature Center 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon Fence.org

Friday, Aug. 17 SUMMER TRACKS CONCERT DELTA MOON 7 to 10 p.m.

Rogers Park 55 W. Howard St., Tryon Summertracks.com

Friday, Aug. 24 TOP OF THE GRADE CONCERT SERIES O’NEAL TOWNSHIP 7 to 9 p.m.

Ella Grace Mintz Stage McCreery Park, Saluda Saluda.com

Saturday, Aug. 18 MUSIC AT THE TRACKS TREVOR HEWITT BAND 7 to 10 p.m.

Landrum Depot North Trade Avenue, Landrum Cityoflandrumsc.com

Sunday, Aug. 26 HUNTER PACE AT GREENSPACE 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Foothills Equestrian Nature Center 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon Fence.org Friday, Aug. 31 SUMMER TRACKS CONCERT FIRESIDE COLLECTIVE 7 to 10 p.m.

Rogers Park 55 W. Howard St., Tryon Summertracks.com

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FOOTHILLS FAMOUS

1

Coon Dog Day

A paw-some crowd packed Main Street in Saluda during the city’s 55th annual Coon Dog Day Festival, which took place July 7. Among the many activities lined up that day was the annual parade through downtown.

Photos by Ted Yoakum 1. Coon Dog Day Princess Piper Denise Clayton, 6 2. Parade Grand Marshal Martha Ashley 3. Baby Princess Iveryn Sheehan, 10 months old, daughter of John and Scarlett Sheehan 4. Polk County Commissioner Jake Johnson

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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FOOTHILLS FAMOUS

1

TFAC art education tour

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3

4

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A group from Tryon recently spent a fun afternoon exploring the Biltmore Estate and the artwork of Dale Chihuly.

The Tryon Fine Arts Center arranged the tour for more than a dozen people as part of the ongoing arts education program. Photos by Michelle Fleming 1. A group of arts patrons depart TFAC for a guided tour of the Chihuly exhibit.

2. Lucy and Tim Brannon stop in front of one of Biltmore’s many ponds.

3. Marybeth Trunk and Evelyn Pezzola snap a selfie with the art.

4. Maryneal Jones relaxes while taking in the sculpture.

5. Evelyn Pezzola checks out the stunning work of Dale Chihuly, rising from the Biltmore gardens.

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

Align goals, investments, and the right advice to make the perfect blend Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need an adjustment to help keep you on track toward achieving your goals. If you’re wondering whether you have the right investments in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you a professional evaluation. It could be the only thing you need is more cream in your coffee, but your investments are worth an important second look.

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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FEATURE STORY

Kirby Cup participants spend four days each year learning soccer skills and information about the four countries being represented before taking part in a weekending tournament and picnic.

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

GOOOOOOOAL Children learn more about soccer — and the world — at annual camp Story and photography by ANDY RHINEHART

I

t is a late June morning, and Harmon Field has turned into a soccer-stirred melting pot, simmering in the Saturday sun.

Flags from four countries — Mexico, Costa Rica, Uruguay and Argentina — dot the jerseys of the young soccer players racing to-and-fro on two pitches. There are shouts from family members for each — “Go Mexico,” “C’mon, Costa Rica” — and hushed whispers among team members as they eye the opposition.

The competition, though, is less of an international event and more of a local community builder.

The 80 or so players, ages 8-13, darting about the fields all hail from Polk County — local kids learning about both the sport of soccer and the countries for which they’re spending the day representing.

At the heart of the whirlwind of action, moving from FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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Thanks to a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation, the Kirby Cup is free each summer to the 80 to 90 kids that take part.

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

field to field, is George Alley, whose vision has become the Kirby Cup, the annual summer soccer camp that has become a Polk County staple. “You doing Kirby Cup this year?” is a question as frequently asked by area youth as those about beach plans and exotic summer vacations.

It is exactly what George planned 14 years ago.

“I’ve lived in a lot of communities, and everywhere I’ve gone, I’ve made my way into the community and gotten to know people through soccer,” George says. “It’s a game of the world that brings people together. It’s a game for all classes in other countries.

“So, at a grassroots level, we’re trying to help create interest at a younger level.”

The Kirby has done just that, drawing a full slate of boys and girls each year.

Players attend a session each morning Tuesday through Friday of Kirby week, going through soccer drills as well as spending time learning about one of the four countries selected for representation. The youth train one day in each country’s style of play, then end the camp on Saturday with a tournament and picnic.

The Saturdays, needless to say, are a popular end to the week.

“Probably today was the most fun,” says 8-year-old Charlie Wagoner of this year’s camp finale. “That and goalkeeper training. I like soccer, so this helps me learn, and I have fun at the same time.”

Charlie spent much of this year’s final day following the shadow of Wilson Edwards, a recent Polk County High School graduate and the Wolverines’ starting goalkeeper last season. A number of current and former PCHS students, such as Wilson and current Southeastern Louisiana University team member Caroline Lee, join the camp each year as counselors. Nearly all are former Kirby participants.

“I learned a lot here,” Wilson says. “George and all the coaches taught me so much about how to play. It is a good place to be if you want to play soccer.

“I see this as giving back to the county. I came here hoping to give goalkeepers the knowledge I have from playing in high school. I want to give back to make sure Polk County has some good players in the future.”

Charlie plans to be one of those.

“I want to train and learn to be a better goalkeeper than Wilson,” he says with a smile.

Former Polk County standout Caroline Lee, now part of Southeastern Louisiana’s program, returned this summer to help mentor a new group of Kirby Cup players.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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“It was also fun to learn about each country that we’re playing for. Until we played the games, we weren’t certain which country we were going to get.”

The international education aspect of the Kirby is important to George, who attempts to pick four countries each year with some tie to current events. This year’s group, for example, included countries playing in the World Cup, offering a natural connection between the sport and the nations.

In the early days of the Kirby, several adult coaches had ties to Eastern European countries such as Romania and Moldova, and often brought items relating to those countries with them to practices, leading to an extensive discussion of each nation.

“Now I’ve reduced those to about 15 minutes each day where I talk about things I’ve pulled down from Wikipedia,” George said. “But if each kid can bring home one or two facts about those countries, that’s great.”

The Cup is named for Dave Kirby, who provided funds to the Polk County Community Foundation with the intent that they be used for events promoting athletics and sportsmanship at Harmon Field. The Kirby Harmon Field Fund enables George to hold the camp each year without charging participants.

“The community foundation has been so

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Kirby Cup founder George Alley has overseen the program for 14 years, focusing on building soccer skills as well as international awareness and a sense of community.

supportive and made it easy for me to do this,” says George, who serves as the executive director for Thermal Belt Outreach.

The Kirby Fund sponsors the camp each year through a local nonprofit organization.

“Outreach and a lot of other agencies here have helped by allowing me to hold the camp through them,” George says. “The guys at Harmon Field have also been unbelievable.

“It gives an opportunity for kids to check soccer out that maybe haven’t played before. A lot of the kids are skilled players, but it may be a kid at left back who hasn’t played before and makes three defensive stops to save a game. I tell kids it’s about all the players.” • Andy Rhinehart is the force behind PolkSports.com and PolkStudents.com, and is an award-winning journalist with more than a decade of experience in daily and non-daily newspapers. He is also a customer success manager at Parse.ly.

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FEATURE STORY

“I practice yoga for fitness and the flow, and take yoga lessons to be a better teacher, to help students find flow within themselves,� says Lori. In a Level 3 class with Lori are, from left, students Teresa Lyter, Vinny Corda, April Mink, Jean Varsames, Karen Mastruserio and Jody Lockhart. Photo by Vincent Verrecchio 24

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

In the zone with a

soprano yoga teacher

Be it through song or meditation, local woman always seeking to improve Story by VINCENT VERRECCHIO

S

inging in a children’s choir at 5 years old, she thrilled to the applause and happiness of the nursing home audience.

In first-grade music class, she sensed “something magical in singing.” Her voice resonated against her bones, vibrating from the inside out and made her feel like smiling and crying at the same time.

At 10 years old, she was singing solo as the princess in “The Frog Prince,” standing center stage in a fanciful gown.

There, for the first time, even while wearing a neck brace after a horse fall, she flowed into the zone.

Once having found it, Lori Moore could never resist that state of energized focus where the activity itself was its own reward.

She would return to it again and again while earning a bachelor’s degree in music from East Carolina University, pursuing a singing career in New York City, performing as FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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Lori reaches from earth to sky in the flow from janu sirsasana (head-to-knee pose) to anjaneyasana (low lunge pose) to vrksasana (tree pose). Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

Evita in summer stock, touring in “Zorba the Greek” through 46 states, rocking with the group Ride with Daddy and starring in the premier run of the opera “Joy of Bernadette.”

“Part of the joy of performing on stage is making people feel good,” says Lori, now Corda. “But there’s more. There’s magic for me in singing rock and roll, blues, folk, 1940s standards, classical, musicals, opera...”

She explains that singing takes her to a private elsewhere, to enjoy the gift of her talent and the exercise of her skills earned through experience and ongoing practice. Even when alone, with no one to applaud, she feels accomplishment and pleasure in her voice flowing across a soprano range of almost three octaves.

In 1992, her future husband, singer and musician Vinny Corda, introduced her to yoga.

In the poses and mindfulness of yoga practice, she found a zone as rewarding as singing.

The newfound flow would take her forward through countless practices to multiple teaching certifications and finally owning her own yoga studio, The Tree House, at her home in Columbus.

Today, Lori is a registered yoga teacher through The Yoga Alliance, and holds a yoga teacher certification from the Anusara School of Yoga, pre and post-natal yoga certification through The Integral Yoga Institute, and IM=X Pilates Certification.

“Singing and yoga are exactly the same,” she says, as we sit outside her studio on the back porch, an ancient oak within close touch from the railing and a calming fountain behind us.

Below, shades of green slope away through branches and trunks to a distant pasture.

“Yoga and singing complement each other so beautifully,” she says. “Both are about breath.

Both demand strength without tension. Both call on the ability to focus, go inside oneself and feel what needs to be done mentally and physically.

Both do best with consistent, correct practice and letting go of the ego.”

She smiles as she recalls a lesson learned from “The Frog Prince” decades ago.

“When my solo came up, I sang and unconsciously went into this outer-body experience where I had no fear, but absolutely no recognition that it ever happened. Later that year, I had the opportunity to solo again and decided that this time I wasn’t going to miss it.

“That was a big mistake. I was only aware of

Lori had played the sister in the pre-premiere “stage readings” of the opera “Joy of Bernadette” in New York City and Florida. She sang the lead for the premiere and run at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. Photos courtesy of Susan Johann FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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the audience. When you perform, you are always aware of the audience to a certain degree, but you can’t be thinking of their approval or be selfconscious of what you’re doing. Otherwise, you have lost the magic.”

The flow is gone. The zone is missed. There is no “in the groove.”

“Flow” is a term introduced by Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in 1975.

The premise of his book, “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience,” is that artists, musicians, athletes and all others are most creative, productive and happiest when in the state of flow.

He defines flow as “a state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience is so enjoyable that people will continue to do it...for the sheer sake of doing it.”

He hypothesizes that autotelic personalities may be better able to achieve flow. Autotelic is based on the Greek “auto” for self and “telos” for goal. These are people with traits that include curiosity, persistence, independence and little or no need for possessions or power, but a need for

“In a show, I can let myself go into this beautiful world of imagination, transforming and bringing a character to life through voice and movement,” says Lori. In 1987, the character was Barbarina, in Mozart’s world of “The Marriage of Figaro.”

Submitted photo

Shortly after this photograph was taken, Lori began her life as a singer, entertaining nursing home audiences as part of a children’s choir. Submitted photo

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With so many brunettes auditioning for the big break in the Big Apple, Lori became a blonde. She got the lead of Annie in a New Jersey summer stock production of “Annie Get Your Gun” but cannot say with certainty that hair had anything to do with it.

Submitted photo

challenge.

“No matter how much I’ve learned, I will always have further to go,” Lori admits. “Both yoga and singing are continually challenging. I practice yoga for fitness and the flow, and take yoga lessons to be a better teacher, to help students find flow within themselves.”

She enjoys seeing the flow evolve in students lesson after lesson. For example, one gray-haired man, with accumulated equestrian injuries, could barely touch his toes with a grunt in his first class, but, over time, was bending at the waist to touch his forehead to his knees.

Lori’s fondest memory is of a woman, self-conscious of weight, coming up after the second class and confiding that this was the first time, in a setting with many people, that she felt beautiful.

She didn’t use the words “in the zone,” but that’s where she’d been.

“Yoga is a practice and so is singing,” Lori says.

“Practice, practice, practice. I have an absolutely amazing voice teacher, Sonja Karlsen, who wrote the music and libretto of the opera ‘Joy of Bernadette.’

I started studying with her in New York City, about 25 years ago, and continue to study with her when she’s at her local home or we Skype when she’s in New York. Lessons are once a week, and three times when preparing for a recital. They range from one to two hours.

“Friends wonder why I still take lessons. Well, with singing, just like yoga, you never arrive ‘there.’ There is always more to learn. I sing when cooking and in the shower, and practice while playing our piano in the living room when Joseph and Sofia are at school.”

Her current favorites are an aria of love and loss from Massenet’s 1884 opera “Manon” and the 1951 version of “Because of You” popularized by Tony Bennett.

“Singing makes me happy,” Lori says. “Yoga helps keep me grounded, calmer in maintaining balance as wife, mother, singer, teacher and entrepreneur working to fill classes and book my next gig.”

People may learn more about Lori’s yoga studio by visiting yogaatthetreehouse.com. •

Envision an NFL lineman holding this pose. Before you react, know that the World Champion Philadelphia Eagles has had a yoga program since the 1990s. Lori believes that yoga should be part of any sports training regimen, from the NBA and equestrian competitions, tennis and golf, to school athletics and more. Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

“When practicing an aria, a show tune, or any other type of singing, first is breath,” Lori explains. “Taking in enough on the inhalation, expanding the lungs from front to back, up and down. So much like yoga.”

Ujjayi, for example, is one of several breathing techniques in a variety of yoga practices. Photo by Vincent Verrecchio

A photo waits in all things, all places, and everyone with a passion has a story to be told.

That’s the perspective Vince Verrecchio, lightly retired ad agency creative director, brings as a writer and photographer contributing to Foothills Magazine. He can be reached at vincent.verrecchio@gmail.com.

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DIFFERENCE MAKER

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Polk County head baseball coach Billy Alm led the Wolverines to a school-record 20 wins and the third round of the state 1A playoffs in 2018.

Knocking it out of the park

High school baseball coach leads team to record-breaking season Story and photography by ANDY RHINEHART

T

he roots of the revitalization of Polk County’s baseball program may stretch to the living room of Billy Alm’s great-grandmother.

Baseball has always run strong in the soul of the Alm family — Billy’s mother, Mary, coached his T-ball team.

But it was in Eva Edelman’s home in Pine Plains, New York, where the heartbeat thumped loudest, where Billy heeded its call as closely as the words that Eva spoke.

“Baseball was big in our town,” Billy says. “When I was 7 or 8, I started playing with the minor league teams and kids 9 and 10. It’s all I did growing up.

At my great-grandmother’s, where we lived, the New York Yankees were always on TV or always on the radio. My whole family has always been big-time baseball fans.

“I played other sports growing up, like basketball and soccer. I got out of football because my great-grandmother asked me not to play, and she ran the house.”

Football’s loss has proven Polk County’s gain.

Wolverine baseball wasn’t broken when Billy became Polk County’s coach prior to the 2017 season; veteran head coach Ty Stott won 262 games and five

Billy helped Polk County senior Holden Owens (right) blossom into the Western Highlands Conference Player of the Year in 2018, setting a handful of school records in the process.

conference championships in his 21 seasons. But the Wolverines hadn’t had a winning campaign since 2013 prior to a remarkable 2018, in which Polk finished 20-4-1 and won a Western Highlands Conference championship, reaching the third round of the state 1A playoffs before suffering a heartbreaking 2-1 setback to Lincoln Charter in extra

innings.

The Wolverines set or tied some 30 school records during a season that validated the approach Billy has brought to the program.

“The first thing we go by is that you give respect to get respect. That’s first and foremost,” he says. “As coaches, we need to be leaders. We show kids that we FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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work hard, they’ll follow us and follow our philosophy.

“As far as baseball, we just want to be aggressive. Given where we start with the athletes, you take them when you get them and teach them to be aggressive with the talent they have and to work hard.”

Billy speaks from experience. He worked to become an all-state standout at Pine Plains High, leading to a college career that began at Schenectady County Community College, where he was the team’s top player as well as one of 23 national junior college players selected to represent the U.S. in a series with China.

The international competition provided Billy an awakening that sparked his eventual interest in coaching.

“Playing with the JUCO USA team, I found out that right-handers throwing 91 miles per hour were a dime a dozen,” Billy says. “I saw that I wasn’t going to

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be a major leaguer, and probably only had two years of baseball left.”

Billy spent those two seasons at South Carolina’s Newberry College, where he earned team MVP honors his senior season, began preparing for a coaching future and met a standout on the girls basketball team, Brandy Carland, whom he would later marry.

Billy landed his first teaching and coaching job at Apple Valley Middle School in Hendersonville before coming to Polk County.

The indoor batting facility rising behind the left-field fence at The Bottoms, Polk County’s baseball field, is testament to the long-range vision that Billy has for Wolverine baseball, as well as his plan to wear Polk County blue for years to come.

“Obviously, the more success we have, we’re going to get more kids interested at a younger age, which will be good for the growth of the program,”

Billy says. “The more interest, the better the program is going to be and the more help we’ll get in building the program.

The more involvement we get from the county, the nicer the facilities we’re going to get.

“Rec league baseball is not where it needs to be here right now. We do have several travel ball teams that parents have started. We’re trying to do anything we can to develop interest in kids at a younger age.” • Andy Rhinehart is the force behind PolkSports.com and PolkStudents.com, and is an award-winning journalist with more than a decade of experience in daily and non-daily newspapers. He is also a customer success manager at Parse.ly.

The Polk County Volleyball Club 15 and under team.

CLUB CORNER

Soaring

above the net Polk County Volleyball Club a labor of love for the community

Story by JULIE CARROLL, photography courtesy of RENAE WALDMAN

A

uthor Stephen King says that “in small towns, people scent the wind with noses of uncommon keenness.”

Folks learn to “sniff around” for opportunities taken

for granted in bigger communities.

Local mother Renae Waldman, who sat for hours on bleachers watching her daughter play competitive volleyball, recognized the scent of opportunity and FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

33

Coaches for the 2018 PCVC season.

A group photo of all the PCVC teams.

34

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

Several coaches pose for a photo with some of the under 12 team players.

rallied local support. Alongside fellow volleyball mom Tracy Becker, Renae conceived Polk County Volleyball Club in 2014.

The club has since grown; the inaugural season sported one team of players 13 and under (13U), and grew to accommodate 12U, 15U and 17U teams this season.

Prior to 2014, parents packed their girls up the mountain to Xcel Volleyball in Hendersonville or down the mountain to Upward Stars in Spartanburg to have an opportunity to hone their skills and compete against teams beyond the reach of the Polk County Recreation Department.

Costs for a season were in the thousands of dollars, practices were held three days per week and tournaments were scheduled most weekends for the better part of nine months.

2018 Polk County High School graduate and athletic standout Reagan Waddell tells me firsthand of the mounting pressures that come from playing for a larger organization, having played for Xcel’s club for six years.

“I enjoyed every single minute,” she says, though admitted that alongside a rigorous academic load, the demanding schedule led her to feeling “burned out.”

Xcel’s and Upward’s programs are highly competitive, as the coaches can pull their talent from a larger pool of girls — theoretically “the best of the best.” But young players quickly realize that if they want to be part of the club, they must specialize, and devote their time and energy to volleyball and volleyball alone.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

35

Further, in these larger districts, the players often don’t play together on their respective school teams.

“Our goal [in forming PCVC] was to make our school team better” Renae says.

PCVC’s presence in the county has been integral in building a volleyball community.

Molly Hill is the head coach for PCHS volleyball, and coaches PCVC teams with players in eighth grade and below.

“PCVC is growing so much” that now it seems volleyball is the “it sport” in the county, she says.

Jon Ezell coached the inaugural 12U team for PCVC this year and assisted Molly at PCHS. “PCVC gives all the benefits from club sports, but on a small scale,” Jon says. “We are pushing to develop well-rounded kids.”

Kenny and Donna Hall are also Polk County Schools employees, volleyball parents and PCVC coaches. Their aim is to “make teams as competitive as they can be, while not taking players away from other school sports.” Kenny goes further to state that his “ultimate competitive goal is to win a state championship for PCHS.” Thanks to support from over 30 local businesses, PCVC has been able to maintain lower costs, “keeping it

The 17 and under team poses for a photo.

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

affordable and open to everyone. We don’t want money to be a reason a girl can’t play,” Renae says.

It’s safe to say that PCVC is at least half the cost of the other, larger programs. A lesser financial obligation for the parents is a perk, for sure, and with a less intense practice schedules, the girls’ calendars are opened for participating in other sports within the rec department or at the middle school and high school levels.

“You’re able to have a life” Reagan says.

Mireya Roman is a rising junior at PCHS and has played at every level Polk County has to offer. Through PCVC, Mireya says she and her teammates have “grown as a team. We’re all like a family.”

Mireya played on coach Molly’s PCVC team during her eighth-grade year, and felt it “really prepared [you] to see what skills you need for the high school level.”

Mireya’s PCVC team this year was comprised of mostly 16-year-old girls, but, with one 17-year-old, was required to register and play up to the level of the oldest player. Mireya said the girls “made lots of progress.”

Playing up an age group “showed us a whole new world of volleyball.”

“PCVC has really built me as a player and as a team

The 15 and under team.

The 13 and under team.

The 12 and under team.

player too,” she says.

Kayleigh Wilson is a rising eight-grader at PCMS and member of PCVC 13U team that played in the AAU National tournament this summer in Orlando, Florida.

“PCVC helped me as a person to not give up; there’s always hope to come back, to win,” Kayleigh says. “If you give up, you let down your teammates and yourself.”

Those on the inside know this, but it begs to be FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

37

Several PCVC members pose for a photo while a national competition in Orlando, Florida.

38

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

The 15 and under team poses for a photo.

written here: PCVC would not be possible without the support of the Polk County Schools Superintendent Aaron Greene, high school principal Brandon Schweitzer and outgoing middle school principal Hank Utz. By granting use of the facilities and equipment at PCHS and PCMS, the Polk County Schools administration not only contributes to reducing costs, but also offers positive endorsements for the sport and the girls who play it.

“They realize it’s only Polk girls,” Renae says. “This helps the school teams, and is really communitybuilding.”

Another perk: PCVC team members of high school age have helped with skills assessments (“evaluations”) for the recreation department’s volleyball league and even coached younger girls’ teams.

“We go out in the community and teach as much as we can, so the new generation of players will be as good or better than us,” Reagan says.

Through its acceptance and support of PCVC, the Foothills community has embraced the opportunity that Renae keenly pulled from the bleachers.

From the administrators to the coaches, from the players to the families who support them, the community, together, made opportunity where there was once none. What communities do together matters.

Said thinker and teacher Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”

For more information regarding PCVC, people may contact Renae at renaewaldman@gmail.com. • Julie Carroll is a family-centered West Virginia native who’s called western North Carolina home since 2007. She’s a speech-language pathologist and writer who reads, travels and plays in the dirt.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

39

FOOD IN THE FOOTHILLS

THE BAKERY

RIDE

A Saturday morning tradition of sweat and sweets Story by STEVE WONG | Photography by MARK SCHMERLING 40

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

I

These six cyclists rode 86 miles on Saturday, June 23, on their “Three Bakery Tour.” Leaving from their home base in Marietta, South Carolina, they first stopped at a bakery there, cycled up the famous Caesar’s Head climb on U.S. 276, then followed 276 to Brevard. From there, they cycled to the Flat Rock Bakery, and on to Wildflour, before setting out to return to Marietta. Pictured are, from left: Jesse Franklin, Conny Walker, Ben Franklin, Gene Bucholtz, Todd Hermetz and Heather Neely. Of their three bakery stops, Walker said, “They’re all wonderful and unique.”

Jesse and Ben Franklin are wearing “Finish Strong” jerseys.

nasmuch as that all roads lead to Rome, it might seem that all cycling routes lead to Saluda on Saturday mornings.

The colorful cyclists, with their aerodynamic helmets, skin-tight jerseys and shorts, and sleek bicycles, ascend to Wildflour Bakery from several different starting points in the region. Most of the time, they come out of the Greenville Watersheds or up the Saluda Grade from Tryon. Pedaling up the mountain, they huff and they puff and they sweat.

Some do it for the exercise. Some for the challenge.

And then there are those who do it for the sticky buns.

No matter the route or motivation, The Bakery Ride is considered to be one of the best weekly cycling events in the country.

“The basic draw of this ride is the challenge of the climb and the beauty of the scenery,” says 50-year-old Steve Baker, the PR guy for the Greenville Spinners cycling club. “Cyclists love a challenge. Climbing mountains is a common challenge for riders of all ability levels. Top riders love the competition with each other. Lower-level riders love to challenge themselves with the distance and severity of mountain climbs.

“The Bakery Ride has beautiful scenery, lower traffic once you get north of Travelers Rest, and the climb is fun to work on your fitness. The fact that there is an awesome bakery at the top with yummy sweet treats is just a bonus. In fact, I’ve done this ride at many times when the bakery was not even open.

“It’s also very common to ride 100 km or 62 miles as a milestone distance,” he explains. “This is called a metric century. Cyclists work up to this distance in their cycling careers. Many organized events are hosted at this distance.

“The Wildflour Bakery is 62 miles from Furman University in Greenville. I think this is one of the best reasons for this to be the most popular weekend ride in our area. Great views, low traffic, hard climbing, awesome pastries and a 62-mile accomplishment. It has all the elements to make it very popular.”

Among the specialty publications that have saluted The Bakery Ride as one of the best in the nation is Men’s Journal magazine, which sited the ride as one of the “25 Best Cycling Roads in America,” having “quiet roads, although they climb frequently, are pitched just right for easy pedaling. And although few would call FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

41

Wildflour owner and co-founder Debi Thomas with a batch of the bake shop’s fresh loaves.

One of the tempting freshly-baked goods that cyclists and other customers enjoy at Wildflour.

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August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

the surrounding area congested, the watershed itself has a quiet peacefulness that enhances the dense woods — and coming into Saluda feels like entry into a new world.”

Depending on the time of year, weather and other cycling options, as many as several hundred cyclists make their way to Wildflour Bakery on Saturday morning, which is usually the halfway point of the journey and good place to take a break.

“It’s at the pinnacle of the ride most times, so it’s convenient to stop and reward yourself for the calories burned getting up there,” says 58-year-old Philip Mosley, of Campbello.

He’s been a cyclist for more than 30 years, and he and his cohorts have been pedaling up the Saluda Grade through Tryon for about 25 years. Like most riders, they take a short break once they reach the Bakery and replenish with fluids and carbs, especially sticky buns.

“Either way you go up to Saluda, it is a beautiful route with little vehicle traffic,” Philip says. “The town is very quaint and the people are very nice to me as a cyclist. I usually enjoy a good conversation with someone any time you make a rest stop. The ride is good because it allows you to build stamina. Climbing the mountain gives you a sense of accomplishment when you reach the top. It’s just a good place to be.”

Because The Bakery Ride is not normally “organized,” the exact origin is as elusive as a discreet potty pitstop.

Philip believes “it grew into a destination rather than being organized.”

One good indication of its longevity is that Wildflour Bakery began nearly 40 years ago at The Orchard Inn, and soon after relocating to Main Street Saluda a few years later, “The cyclists began appearing for early morning sticky buns and coffee that first year,” says Debi Thomas, the owner of the bakery.

“They are generally a lively group, sharing tales of their ride or past rides, discussing cycling equipment or sharing tips on riding with newbies,” she says. “It’s also a chance to catch their breath, refuel, and, in the winter, thaw out!

Our other customers are often fascinated with the cyclists, who are happy to answer questions and have bragging rights to the grueling ride they just finished.

“Sticky buns are a long time favorite, a great carb replenisher and so amazingly delicious. But scones and breakfast sandwiches on homemade bread or bagels are often the choice for some very hungry riders. Our handmade, fresh fruit Danish [pastries] fly out the door on weekends. Closer to lunch time, orders are most often sandwiches or quiche.”

“Like everyone, cyclists love pastries and coffee,” Steve adds. “It’s very common in the cycling world to ride to a coffee shop and drink coffee. Cyclists also might tell you that they ride to eat. Many of us ride a lot to stay fit.

Riding uses up a lot of energy. This can help you justify

Debi flips some fresh dough.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

43

Michael Mendelow, of Greenville, cycled to Wildflour Bake Shop and back to Greenville on Saturday, June 23.

eating pastries and sweet treats now and then.

“Doing a hard ride to Saluda might be a good justification for a sticky bun and a cup of coffee. And, those sticky buns at the Wildflour Bakery are famous!

They are awesome.

The location of the Wildflour Bakery is also very important in understanding why it’s so popular. It’s at the turnaround point in the ride. It’s at the halfway mark.

It’s at a point where the hardest riding is finished. The Wildflour Bakery is about two hours into the ride, so it’s almost natural to stop and get water, even if you don’t want a sticky bun.

“Many factors come together to make this a very popular stop on many rides. I will also say that the food at the bakery is another serious attraction on and off the bike. Many of us go back at other times for lunch or dinner because we can’t enjoy some of that in the middle of a 100 km ride. I’ve been there for pizza night with friends without our bikes. I also take area visitors there when I’m showing off our entire area. Tourists visiting Greenville want to see the whole area. Saluda is a 44

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

beautiful little town that many visitors love to see.”

“Cyclists are often on the porch waiting for us to open in the summer,” Debi says. “They get an early start to beat the heat. We do check the weather for the day, determining how many pastries we think we will need.

Cycling clubs are generally happy to give us notice of events, races or large groups planning to ride The Bakery Ride so we can have enough for their group.

“There have been occasions when it suddenly begins a downpour and the cyclists arrive drenched. We have literally mopped around them as they ate their sticky buns and dripped puddles on the floor, hung their sopping wet socks and jackets over our heaters or given someone plastic bags to put over their feet to make the ride home. During one especially wicked thunderstorm, we loaded bikes in our delivery van and took a group back down the mountain.”

“There is definitely a sense of community on Saturday morning rides,” Steve says. “Cyclists get together in groups. Groups of teammates, friends, or sometimes strangers that have come together for a challenge or

Wildflour’s Kacey Watkins with entrees he’s about to serve to some of the bakery’s customers.

fun ride. I think everyone celebrates doing the Bakery Ride. Last weekend I rode with five of my friends who brought three people I met that morning. Everyone had a common bond. We were riding bikes and we were going to the bakery.

“Several people had been there before but didn’t know the exact route to get there. One had never been there before, and she was very excited to notch off the accomplishment of riding to the Bakery. We talked some about what to expect on the climb up there and what to order when you got there — sticky bun, of course.

“When we arrived, the first timer was super excited to accomplish the goal and the others were excited to sample some treats. They were out of sticky buns, so we had to order other things. We ate and rode back home. Everyone had fun.” •

IF YOU GO ADDRESS 173 E. Main St., Saluda PHONE 828-749-3356 WEBSITE wildflourbakerync.com HOURS Tuesday 5 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Thursday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m..

Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Steve Wong is a writer living in the peach orchards in Gramling, South Carolina. He can be reached online at Just4Wong@Gmail.com.

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

45

LET’S EAT!

Refreshing drinks to quench

summertime thirsts

GINGER FLAVORED GREEN TEA Servings: 2 (Serving Size: 1¾ cups) INGREDIENTS 2½ cups of water 1 teaspoon grated ginger Sugar (optional) 2 bags of green tea DIRECTIONS • Heat 2½ cups of water in a pan.

• As it begins to boil, add the grated ginger.

• Simmer for 2 minutes.

• Stir in sugar, if using.

• Remove from heat and add tea bags.

• Let them steep for 2 minutes, then strain and serve.

By JIMMI BUELL

46

I

t’s August and it’s still a little hot, weatherwise.

It’s nice to have a refreshing drink during the dog days of summer. What to drink? What are my options?

Well, water is always good, but sometimes we want a little more.

Water is an essential nutrient that makes your body run smoothly and efficiently.

Because the average adult’s body is about 65 percent water, it’s no wonder that we can only survive for about three to five days without it!

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

Water transports nutrients and oxygen to cells, carries away waste products and lubricates our digestive tracts, joints and cartilage.

The Health and Medicine Division of the National Academies of Sciences suggests an adequate total fluid intake of about 13 cups per day for men and about 10 cups per day for women. Keep in mind that you may need more or less, depending on activity level, body size and environment.

With the continuing summer heat, it’s easy to turn to soft drinks, lemonade, energy drinks

and sports drinks to quench our thirst. While these beverages are convenient and tasty, they are also expensive and high in sugar and calories.

The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages has increased significantly in the past decade. Sugar-sweetened beverages include soda, sports drinks, sweet tea, fruit-flavored drinks such as punch and lemonade, and any other beverage (even coffee) if sugar is added to it. Excess consumption of these beverages is associated with weight gain, poor nutrition, and a higher risk for obesity and diabetes.

Sports drinks were created in 1965 as a supplement for athletes to replace carbohydrates and electrolytes lost during prolonged vigorous activity, especially those performing in high heat and humidity. Sports drinks typically contain water, electrolytes (sodium and potassium) and carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates can come in the form of high fructose corn syrup, fructose, sucrose, brown rice syrup, cane juice and/or maltodextrin.

While designed for athletes, these beverages are common among youth and consumed by many adults who simply like the taste or who are looking for a different kind of beverage.

The benefits of sports drinks are appropriate only for athletes or individuals engaging in prolonged vigorous physical activity, and/or those activities performed in high temperatures and humidity. These activities include football training during summer months, marathon training and races, competitive soccer and tennis matches, and long cycling races.

Sports drinks have been shown to decrease fatigue and replace sodium and potassium lost in sweat under these circumstances. Anyone who is participating in vigorous exercise should drink water before, during and after exercise.

If children are participating in prolonged vigorous activity in hot, humid conditions for more than one hour, small amounts of sports drinks may be appropriate.

However, for the anyone engaging in routine physical activity for less than three hours in normal weather conditions, the use of sports drinks in place of water is unnecessary.

Looking for an alternative to high-calorie drinks to refresh you on those hot days? I recommend ginger green tea.

The green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants. Ginger adds a refreshing twist to the usual green tea. Use of sugar is optional.

Drinking green tea regularly may not only boost your fat-fighting metabolism, but may also play a key role in weight maintenance and hunger suppression. Green tea is also brimming with antioxidants and flavonoids that are good for overall health.

Drink freshly brewed tea with no added sugar or cream — bottled store-bought varieties have fewer antioxidants (the concentration decreases the longer tea sits after brewing) and are often pumped full of honey or sugar. •

CRANBERRY LIME SODA INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup cranberry juice 2/3 cup club soda 1 lime slice DIRECTIONS • Combine cranberry juice and club soda. Splash with lime.

Jimmi Buell, extension agent, family and consumer sciences, Polk County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, 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.

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

47

MUCH ADO

Ready for showtime A tribute to the Tryon Theatre

By STEVE WONG

I

love going to the movies, and I have always considered the Tryon Theatre to be one of my favorite places to sit in the dark to watch the world of make-believe on the silver screen.

By now — hopefully — all of the renovations will be complete and the old girl will be gussied up and in full swing once again. I’m sure that old moldy-looking ceiling stain that I used to stare at while waiting for the lights to go down will be painted over. I guess I’ll just have to find some other abstraction to ponder prior to the previews.

If you live in or around Tryon, you could hardly not be aware that the old Tryon Theatre has been undergoing a much-needed renovation during the past few months. Workers have been hauling old stuff out and new stuff in, often blocking the sidewalk, which was no big deal and well worth the sidestepping. We have watched the exterior get a new paint job in a sort of cool art deco style. Love the logo!

The new owners — Gayle and Scott Lane, who I don’t know — have made great efforts to let the local community know about and anticipate the cinema’s rebirth.

Yes, the balcony will be remain. Yes, balcony access will still be via the separate entrance. Yes, you’ll still be able to buy and drink beer and wine.

No, you’ll no longer have to fear getting mold in your 48

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

lungs.

Basically, they are trying to keep the best and mostbeloved features and improve the overall experience. From what we see and hear, they are accomplishing this goal, and I can’t wait to see for myself.

My first visit to the Tryon Theatre was probably about 30 years ago, when my wife and in-laws took me, saying it would be a unique experience.

I don’t recall the movie, but I do recall being a little confused about the whole separate-entrance-to-thebalcony thing. I got a history lesson in segregation in the South.

And, I was pleasantly surprised to buy beer in the balcony. Actually, it was love at first sitting in the balcony — it made me feel special, above it all.

Dumb segregationists. They gave the best seats in the house to the very people they were trying to discriminate against.

But let’s not fool ourselves — time had taken its toll, and the theater was sort of ratty. No one was complaining, and after my first experience, I, too, learned to love the casual rattiness of the venue.

I’ve never believed in dressing up to sit in a dark room with strangers, and going to the Tryon Theatre was even more reason to wear my baggy pants with worn-away cuffs, untucked and un-ironed shirt, and slip-on garden shoes.

Frankly, I not alone in my choice of theater attire. The folks in the Carolina Foothills make dressing down an art form of casually shabby but chic.

Where else in the world can women of a certain age wear long grey hair with such confidence and the men not feel compelled to suck in their guts when approached by these women to dance?

In the years that followed, I almost always chose to sit in the balcony, where I could see the expired splendor of the theater. The ceiling had dark stains that my waiting mind could turn into shapes of fantasy.

The beer probably added to that little creative exploration.

The floor was a little sticky, so I always wore shoes instead of flip-flops. The chairs were worn, squeaky, lumpy and sometimes just plain broken. Some of the wall coverings had long past stop serving their purpose. And, who in the world designed the stage with faux doors and exposed lights?

Yes, there was plenty wrong with the Tryon Theatre, but there was something special about it that kept people like me coming back and keeping our observed defects to ourselves.

Personally, I never chose to complain for fear that change would take away the charm that endured through the ages.

God forbid that it might actually close! That would certainly be a horror show.

I would much rather sit in a lumpy balcony seat with beer in hand at the Tryon Theatre than one of those multiplex places where everything is hermetically sealed and sheriff deputies stand ready to tase middle-age men who over-salt their second (and free) large bucket of popped starch. - Bullet Point - Bullet Point Most of us endured and loved the tattered and torn old Bullet Point Tryon Theatre, hoping it would never change.

Bullet Point But not all good things come to an end. Like the wine DBA Name Here and women of the Foothills, some things get better with age — and so we hope is the case with the Tryon Theatre.

Thank you, Gayle and Scott, for stepping up to the 000-000-0000 Street challenge of Address saving one of Tryon’s most beloved landmarks. I Cityto State can’t wait notZipsee you in the dark. www.servicemasterclean.com Don’t shhh me: I’m sitting in the balcony, where talking about the movie during the movie is culturally acceptable in Tryon.•$00 Off

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Steve Wong is a writer living in the peach orchards in Gramling, South Carolina.

He can be reached online at Just4Wong@Gmail.com.

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

49

Buying

APPOINTMENTS

your first horse part I

Buy with your head, not your heart

Story and photography by CATHERINE HUNTER

This is the sixth in a series of articles to help prospective new horse owners increase their chances of successful horse ownership.

I

broke all the rules when I bought my first horse.

I was 15 years old and bought a 2-year-old Thoroughbred filly that had never been handled — at an auction. In fact, I had never seen her up close before we bid.

I had been saving my babysitting money for years and, like so many, this was my dream horse. Unlike most firsttime buyers, I had years of experience, not only riding, but breaking and training as well.

Because of this knowledge and experience, and the support of an accomplished instructor/trainer, my first horse buying experience turned out very well.

Unfortunately for so many, their first horse buying experience turns out much differently — even becoming a nightmare for some.

Most experienced horsemen and women have seen the heartbreaking accidents, the dreams that wind up in the dust or worse. We see the horses sold at half their worth or to a kill buyer simply because the new owner either bought too much horse or too green a horse.

However, there are ways to avoid 50

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

such disasters and make an investment in an equine that will give you years, even decades, of safe, fun and satisfying enjoyment.

One of the most important, and perhaps the most difficult, things to do when it comes to purchasing that first horse is to buy with your head, not your heart.

USE YOUR HEAD, NOT YOUR HEART Buying a horse can be a very emotional experience.

Most people who are in the process of purchasing their first mount have been dreaming about that horse for years — possibly since childhood.

They have imagined themselves blissfully galloping down tails on a beautiful Arabian or Thoroughbred, its mane flowing in the wind. Perhaps they have dreamed of the championship ribbons they would win, or how all the books and movies show the special bond that happens between the gifted rider and the perfect horse.

Regardless, when any of us buys a horse, we are not buying flesh and blood, we are buying dreams.

However, when you open up that wallet or write that check, it is good to remember this is a commitment, for better or worse, for years, even decades.

Not only is it a commitment, you are

literally taking your life and limb in your hands.

With that in mind, do your homework.

Call on a team of qualified experts for help. Take along a reputable trainer when you think you have found the right horse. Go look at the horse more than once to see if the horse’s behavior is consistent.

Most importantly, be sure the horse is suitable for your level of riding ability and for the type of riding you wish to pursue. Unfortunately, so many people simply buy a horse because they fall in love with it or because it is beautiful — regardless of whether or not they can successfully ride or even handle the animal.

TRAINING Just because the horse is a highly trained show horse with lots of trophies doesn’t mean it is right for everyone.

A well-trained fourth-level dressage horse or an experienced cow horse are usually much too sensitive and highly trained for a new rider.

I have seen so many new horse owners give up the sport because they bought a show ring winner or time event horse, only to realize the horse was too sensitive to be tolerant of the unavoidable mistakes made by inexperienced riders. Such a horse

When considering size, look for a horse that is suited to your height and weight. Courtesy of Harmony Training LLC

often reacts correctly and very swiftly, surprising an unprepared rider.

If you have been taking lessons for a few months to learn a good functional seat, you will want to look for a horse that is trained to an advanced beginner or low-intermediate level. Such a horse is quiet and tolerant, but still has enough spirit and energy so you will not become bored in a year or two.

Be cautious of a horse that “anyone can ride� or that appears to have no interest in things going on around them.

Horses that are drugged, unhealthy or sore can change into a completely different animal once they are healthy, sound and drug free.

If the horse has not been overused in a training program, a former lesson horse is a good option. Look for one that responds readily to your signals without over reacting. The horse should also be somewhat patient and tolerant, especially if you are not a strong rider.

Former show horses that are older and no longer competing sometimes make ideal first horses. They have a lot of knowledge to teach a novice rider.

However, it is important to be careful that the horse is not still so sensitive it reacts to unconscious movements.

Look for a horse that is trained in the discipline of riding you wish to pursue.

If you want to trail ride, be certain the

horse is experienced on trails.

Some show horses are not good outside of a ring, are easily spooked on the trails or will not cross water or bridges.

If you wish to jump or hunt, be sure the horse is trained for jumping. A show jumper or barrel horse is not trained for dressage, and a dressage horse may not be ideal for a timed event horse.

If you are looking for a hunter or trail horse, be sure the horse is quiet and easy to ride in the company of other horses.

Also a good trail or hunter should be comfortable following other horses or riding in the center of the group.

If you wish to try driving, look for FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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When it comes to purchasing that first horse, buy with your head, not your heart.

a horse that is broke to pull a wagon or carriage. Just because the horse pulls farm equipment or a sled does not mean it can handle a wagon, cart or carriage.

Unless you are purchasing a team, be sure the horse is trained to pull single.

As always, talk with your trainer about what they see in the horse’s training level.

HEALTH AND SOUNDNESS A good trainer can rule out a lot of health and soundness issues that are readily evident.

Obviously, if the horse is limping, has a lot of mucus draining from its nose or is coughing a lot more than would be justified by dust, the horse is most likely too big of a risk, especially for a first-time horse owner.

A good trainer with a discriminating eye can spot many hidden lameness issues such as stifle or hock problems, ringbone, founder, a bowed tendon, etc. It is always smart to have the horse 52

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

vetted, including x-rays, by a qualified veterinarian before purchase.

Plan to spend a few hundred on such an exam; it could save you thousands in the long run.

GENDER Gender is not nearly so important, as the simple fact that a stallion (an intact male horse) is not a suitable first-time horse.

A gelding is a neutered male horse and, because they are much quieter and easier to handle, are much more suitable for a novice rider.

Movies and TV have made “taming a wild stallion” seem romantic and even easy, however, quite the opposite is true.

No matter how well-behaved, stallions take a lot of skill and experience to handle.

Anyone owning a stallion takes on the liability of keeping the other horses and riders around them safe from the horse’s aggressive behavior. Though

many stallions can be ridden around other horses, including mares, it only takes a moment for things to escalate dangerously past the ability of most novices to control.

In addition, stallions have to be stabled and/or pastured separately from other horses and many events and groups will not allow stallions to participate. Ownership of stallions is best left to the experts who invest in them as breeding stock rather than pleasure horses.

AGE More people make the mistake of buying a horse too young than one too old.

The sad story of parents buying a yearling colt so it and their child can “grow up together” much too often leads to an injured child or a horse being whisked off to the killer sale by an upset parent.

Horses are not considered adult

until they reach the age of at least 5 years old. Some breeds mature more slowly and live longer. Imagine the bouncy, playful immaturity of a 6-week, even a 6-month-old puppy, then multiply that by 100 or more times and add hooves.

Most trainers consider 5 year olds and under as much too immature for a novice rider. Unless the horse is exceptional, most good trainers prefer to mount novice riders on something at least 7 or 8 years old.

Older horses are great for teaching new riders. They usually understand what is expected of them and do not require perfect signals in order to interpret the rider’s wishes.

Older horses are often more tolerant than a young horse and will be less quickly to overreact.

Today, horses are living longer and staying sound longer than any time throughout history. Therefore, when looking for a novice’s first horse, many trainers consider horses between the ages of 7 and 12, or even 15 years old.

Depending on the rider and the individual horse, they may even shop for a horse up to 18 years or more.

SIZE So many first time horse owners make the mistake of buying a horse that is too big for them.

Whether they are concerned about the horse’s ability to carry their weight, or it makes them feel better mounted, it is simply difficult to mount and handle a horse that is much taller than your reach.

When considering size, it is important to remember that you will have to be able to reach the top of the horse’s back to brush and saddle it, and will have to be able to reach the top of the horse’s head to put on a halter, a bridle or to brush and care for the horse’s ears, eyes, etc.

A good estimate of size most people go by is that a horse can carry approximately 20 percent of its body weight — including the saddle and blankets. Therefore, an average size horse that weighs about 1,200 pounds can carry approximately 240 pounds of rider and tack.

When considering size, you will also want to consider how you look on the horse. A 5-foot woman will look “over mounted” on a 17 hand Warmblood and a 6 foot, 3 inch man will look under mounted on a 15 hand Morgan.

One last thing to think about when looking at size is, unless you are handicapped, can you mount from the ground?

This is important because you never know when you may have to dismount and there is not a mounting block or a friendly rock around.

in Western North Carolina The Blue Ridge Mountains are one of the best places for equestrian properties.

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Rely on our experience to help you find your perfect horse-friendly property.

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WHERE TO LOOK As mentioned earlier, a horse auction is not the best place to find your dream horse.

There are many online sites listing horses for sale in your area. Many of these sites will include information about FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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If you plan to trail ride, fox hunt or ride in groups, look for a horse that is quiet and easy to ride in the company of other horses.

the horse’s temperament, training level, manners, etc. You can filter your search to only look for horses with specifics that fit your needs.

Another good source may be a friend who recently purchased a horse they are very happy with — and ride frequently.

If they purchased from a reputable trainer who trains and sells, this could be a good source.

Of course, ask your trainer, but be careful of a trainer who will quickly talk you out of considering any horse that is not in his or her barn. Your trainer may know of a private party whose child has gone to college and cannot take the horse, or someone who is moving on to a more challenging mount.

Though you typically want to stay away from “horse dealers,” there are many reputable trainers who train horses specifically for sale as part of their income.

ADOPTION Many new to the horse industry consider adopting a “rescue” horse in an effort to save money on the purchase price.

Like so many things, you get what you pay for. Adoption can become very costly in the long run as the new 54

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

owner tries to deal with lack of training, temperament problems or health issues.

People don’t give away sound, healthy, well-trained horses.

Most reputable equine rescues will carefully vet a prospective owner to be sure you have the knowledge and experience to care for, what could be a “special needs” horse. Be very cautious of organizations that do not “vet” prospective owners and are ready to give you a horse too quickly.

While most rescue organizations are well managed, some take on more than they can handle and are desperate to find someone to take the stock off their hands.

Though books and movies make adopting a “wild Mustang” sound romantic, it is a very good way for a novice to get badly hurt. These horses are young, wild and scared.

They perceive humans as predators and will stop at nothing to escape — including running over top of you or kicking you to death. Leave adopting a rescue or a wild horse to the experts who have the skills and expertise to solve the problems or break and train the horse properly.

Most of all, in looking for that first

horse, take your time. My mother, Gigi Holescher, who was also my first trainer, used to say, “Never buy the first horse you see.” What she was saying is there are a lot of horses for sale.

You will be essentially married to this horse for years, maybe even tens of years.

It is worth the time it will take to find the right one.

Next month, Foothills Magazine will go into greater details about the traits of popular breeds and matching the care needs of the individual horse to your lifestyle and pocketbook.

Catherine Hunter’s journalism career spans 20 years of writing for newspapers and magazines, including The Chronicle of the Horse, The Western Horseman, the Tryon Daily Bulletin and Foothills Magazine. In 2000, Hunter received a South Carolina Press Association award for reporting in depth. She is the author of “Sacred Connections Horsemanship: Empowering Horse and Rider through Chakra Energy.” Email her at catherine.hunter@ tryondailybulletin.com.

APPOINTMENTS

Reining

A legacy of the old West Story and photography by CATHERINE HUNTER

T

he crowd holds its breath as a golden horse with a flowing white mane races into the arena and slides to a halt.

The horse backs up several steps, then jumps back into a full gallop.

The crowd whoops, whistles and stomps its feet. Cries of, “Ride ‘em cowboy!” echo against the rafters Though it is a newcomer to the international equestrian scene and the World Equestrian Games, reining brings in a whole new element of fans to what was typically a traditional venue with a decidedly European flavor.

The whoops and cheers, the cowboy hats, the fringed chaps and the twang of Texas drawls sweeps the spectators away to the old West.

As the crowd breathes in the dust stirred by flying hooves, they see sunsets over the mesas in the flash of a golden mane. They hear the mournful howl of a wolf in the distance and hear the notes of a campfire guitar in the subtle rattle of spurs.

Reining found its beginnings in America — and what is more American than a cowboy and his faithful horse?

HISTORY Reining originated from the quick, nimble movements required of cow horses working cattle on the open ranges of the old West.

With no fences or barns to control the stock, cowboys needed horses to

herd, rope, brand, hold for medication and otherwise care for the cattle. The cow horses had to be able to reach a full gallop in a single jump, stop suddenly, spin 180 degrees and take off in another direction as they pursued an errant calf that did not wish to be corralled.

Reining patterns are designed to mimic the efforts of a working cow horse. The horses must be quiet, responsive and cooperative.

Because the cowboys’ hands were usually busy with their lariats, they used their legs and weight more than reins to communicate with their mounts.

Today’s reining competitions reflect that speed, agility and communication.

Similar to a good dressage ride, the riders’ aids should not be apparent, and the horse should respond willingly and easily.

MOVEMENTS Reining patterns consist of eight to 12 movements designed to test the horse’s speed, agility and cooperation with the rider. They are judged on smoothness, precision, fineness, rhythm, degree of difficulty and the communication between horse and rider.

Most of the movements are executed at the lope (slow canter) interspersed with galloping for some movements.

Speed is considered to add to the degree of difficulty.

Circles: The horse is required to gallop a circle, then quickly come down to a lope for a second circle in the same direction. After the second circle the horse must change directions, creating a figure-eight pattern with the circles.

In the center of the circle, the horse does a flying lead change.

In the gallop circles, riders are given points for speed, which is considered to make the movement more difficult.

The horse is also judged by how quietly and easily he changes from a fast gallop to a slow lope.

Flying lead change: When loping or galloping, a horse places more weight on the inside front and back legs as they strike the ground than on the outside legs. This specific distribution of weight in the canter is called a canter lead, and helps the horse to balance when negotiating a turn.

In reining, the horse is required to switch canter leads when changing direction, using the correct lead for the direction of the turn. The flying change must be quick and smooth, and done in only one stride. The horse must not cross canter (only changing lead in the front leg).

Rundown: Often when being chased by a cowboy, a calf will take off running in one direction then, as the horse catches up to it, instantly pivot FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

55

Reining patterns are performed either at a lope or gallop, depending on the movement being executed.

and run in the opposite direction. A cow horse must be able to run fast enough to stop the calf, then change direction as the calf attempts to escape in the opposite direction.

The rundown mimics this skill in a good cow horse. In a reining competition, the horse gallops along the side of the arena for at least 20 feet, then slides to a stop. The rundown is immediately followed by a rollback.

Rollback: After coming to a sliding stop, from a gallop, the horse immediately spins 180 degrees and leaps into a gallop in the opposite direction. The horse should spin on its hindquarters and should not hesitate or stop at any time during the movement.

Back (Backup): When a cowboy ropes a calf or steer, the horse must

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immediately stop, causing the calf to fall to the ground. Then as the cowboy jumps off to tie the calf, the horse must at times backup to keep the rope tight.

This prevents the calf from regaining its feet and risk tangling the cowboy or the horse in the rope.

In reining, the horse is required to back for at least 10 feet in a straight line. The horse must stop when signaled and hesitate a moment before performing the next movement.

Spins (Pivots): There is no direct correlation between the 360-degree spins in a reining pattern and the skills necessary for working cattle. However the spins thrill the crowds and show off the horse’s agility and cooperation.

The horse is required to spin 360 degrees or more, but no more than four and a half full turns. Similar to dressage

pirouettes, the horse actually pivots on the hindquarters, leaving one hind foot in place as it pivots around. Reining patterns require at least one set of spins in each direction and, the faster the horse spins, the higher the score.

Pause (Hesitate): Cow horses must not only be very fast and quick to work cattle, they must also be very calm and quiet in order not to spook the herd.

A good cow horse can lower its head and quietly slip into the center of the herd to cut out a particular calf or steer without causing the cattle to mill about too much or worse, stampede.

The pause or hesitate portion of the reining pattern usually follows the spins. It not only gives the horse a chance to recover if it is a bit dizzy, but reflects the horse’s ability to remain calm even after performing a difficult

maneuver at speed.

Though pauses are not judged as a separate movement, a horse that does not stand quietly will be penalized.

THE HORSES Reining horses can be any breed, but the Quarter Horse is specifically bred for this type of work.

The well-known saying, “A Quarter Horse can turn on a dime and give you a nickel in change,” reflects the quarter horse’s agility and speed. This speed and ability to reach top speed in nearly a single jump makes Quarter Horses the fastest horses alive over a quarter of a mile.

Though the breed gained fame as a Western cow horse, the Quarter Horse was actually developed by Virginia colonists in the 1700s. In the wooded Virginia countryside of Colonial America, it was simply easier to carve out a short racecourse than it was to build the longer courses designed for Thoroughbred racehorses.

Enterprising breeders began crossing Thoroughbreds with the early Spanish horses (a cross between drafts and Arabians) that had been brought to the new world in the 1600s. This created a small, tough, but very fast horse that could win over the new shorter distances.

If one looks closely, they can still see the large shoulders and thick crest of the Spanish horses in today’s modern Quarter Horse. Other conformation characteristics of the Quarter Horse include large, round, well-muscular hindquarters, powerful shoulders and a low set tail. Their heads are thick and broad, especially through the jowls, and their ears are often small and delicate, reflecting their Arabian ancestors.

Their strong hindquarters support the sliding stops and rollbacks required of reining horses. The Quarter Horses’ Spanish draft ancestry bequeathed them with lots of “bone,” meaning their legs are strong enough to withstand the stress created by reining patterns.

Standing between 14 and 15.2 hands, Quarter Horses are typically small, but very strong, and can weigh as much as 1,500 or 1,600 pounds. Their abundance of muscle allows them to easily carry riders that would be too large for other breeds their size.

Quarter Horses are ideal for reining because, although they are very fast, they are also a calm, sensible horse, capable of handling the fast speeds and quick changes in a reining pattern.

EQUIPMENT AND ATTIRE Reining competitors wear Western boots and long-sleeve Western style shirts and jeans. Most wear Western “cowboy” hats, though approved helmets are allowed.

Reining allows for more color than most other FEI sports, and is often reflected in the colored saddle blankets that sometimes match the rider’s shirt or hat.

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FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

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The spin is another favorite of crowds in the reining completion. The horse is required to spin 360 degrees. The faster the horse spins, the higher the score.

Cowboy hats, colorful shirts and Western boots bring a whole new element of fans to what was typically a traditional venue, with a decidedly European flavor.

The horse’s tack includes Western-stock saddles (other WEG disciplines are ridden in English saddles) and Westernstyle bridles. Riders can wear spurs but are not allowed to carry a whip.

To protect their legs from stress, the horses wear splint boots and polo wraps. The horse usually has skid boots on its hind ankles to protect its fetlock joints from friction in the sliding stop.

Many reining horses will also wear bell boots which are circular boots that fits just above and down over the hooves to protect the horse’s heels and coronary bands (where the

hoof meets the leg). Reining horses are also fitted with special horseshoes on their hind feet that slide more easily, help keep the horse straight and prevent the toes from digging into the dirt.

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ORGANIZATION In 1949, the American Quarter Horse Association became the first organization to recognize reining as an equestrian sport. In 1966, the National Reining Horse Association developed the competition’s standardized rules and patterns that opened the door for worldwide

The rundown movement is a favorite with reining competition fans.

participation.

It was not until the year 2000 that the Fédération Equestre Internationale (the governing body for WEG) recognized the growing popularity of the sport and began sanctioning international events. Two years later, reining thrilled crowds at the WEG event held in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. • Catherine Hunter’s journalism career spans 20 years of writing for newspapers and magazines, including The Chronicle of the Horse, The Western Horseman, the Tryon Daily Bulletin and Foothills Magazine.

In 2000, Hunter received a South Carolina Press Association award for reporting in depth. She is the author of “Sacred Connections Horsemanship: Empowering Horse and Rider through Chakra Energy.” Email her at catherine.hunter@ tryondailybulletin.com.

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APPOINTMENTS

August & Strangers

No More

By PEBBLES

F

or those of you who have just begun reading my monthly column, I want to recap on why the month of August is called the “Dog days of summer.”

The phrase honors Sirius, the dog star, who graces our heavens this month and often brings disaster during this sultry time of the year. It is the brightest star in night sky.

Furthermore, while dogs lie panting and complaining of their uncomfortable fate this time of the year, I relax in my roomy stall, which is replete with three robust fans — a far cry from last summer where I endured living in a pasture with a run-in shed and daily dose of fly spray, which I detest!

August 2016 was far worse. I was in a kill pen, fearing for my life.

During this dog star month, Lee Major provides only the very best for me. I nibble on hay and await sunset for leisurely night grazing with my two donkey pals.

Here, by day, I rest in my cool digs.

John Major has also suspended large zip-lock bags from my ceiling that contain pennies. I am told it wards off the flies, and indeed, my stall is devoid of any pests.

Heavenly positioning for my creature comforts. No stinky spray required here!

Wait, I hear a familiar motor hum in the driveway. My mistress, Heather, has arrived.

Jessica Orr, the patient farrier, is in tow, so I alas I must “toe the line” and behave. It is time for my manicure.

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No prancing or dancing today — I will surrender my hooves and stand still. Life is all a negotiation, and where is that carrot for coaxing my obedience?

During my routine foot care appointment, Lee quickly darts to the house to fetch our new family member.

Heather must meet my unwavering fan, Brit. A very fancy Norfolk terrier, hailing from Finland with breeding and pedigree galore, well it rivals my own!

She has come to live on the farm with us, and what a stellar addition.

Our own new bright dog star.

Smart, fearless and, of course, fond of me. It was instant dogmatic attraction.

Carrots rule for me, but dog

biscuits are for Brit. I believe this is how Lee lured her into my realm at the barn.

We are spoiled, kindred spirits, with a nose for adventure and fierce determination. A high-stepping pony and a brave canine with places to explore.

Heather had to leave me as suddenly as she came, as HERD has a new arrival on the way today. A 3-year-old Thoroughbred filly the team has decided to call Starlight (for her barn name) is finally making her way into our care.

It is an epic journey this poor filly has endured. At a mere 6 months old, she sold for $60,000 in a Kentucky Thoroughbred sale.

Her pedigree, like both Brit’s and

Strangers No More, now named Starlight after being adopted by HERD. Photo courtesy of Scott Homstead

Strangers No More after her exhausting trailer ride from Louisiana to Tryon. Photo courtesy of Scott Homstead

mine, is exceptional. Born to run, what a beauty, with a registered name of “Strangers No More.” We discovered who she really was through her lip tattoo.

The filly had shown great promise and began racing in Delaware. Unfortunately, she bowed a tendon in full gallop at 3 years old.

Her owner had pledged he would rest her and find her a safe home. Instead, he sold her to a meat dealer who buys up Thoroughbreds and ships them to a kill pen in Louisiana.

Heather spied this pretty young mare on a Facebook • Design Build General Contractors posting, having no idea at the time that she was a valuable • Fine Custom Homes prize who sold for a high price tag as a weanling. Something • Equestrian Facilities about her was very special.

• Timber Frame and Log Homes The meat buyer had no idea. He noted that her racing Horse barns built by horse people with an amazing attention to detail plates were still on her feet, and pointed to the injured tendon that was visible as they walked her in a tight circle.

75 S Trade Street, Suite E, Tryon, NC 28782 | www.tryonbuilders.net This heartless new owner would ship her to Mexico for slaughter in two days. The price tag to save her was $650.

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PEBBLES’ IRON SKILLET PEACH CRISP INGREDIENTS Topping: • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 2/3 cup (packed) light brown sugar • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup (1 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into pieces Assembly: • 1 1/2 cups pecans • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature • 2 1/4 pounds peaches (about 7 medium), cut into 1/2 inch wedges • 1/3 cup (packed) light brown sugar • 1/4 cup granulated sugar • 3 tablespoons lemon juice • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS • Whisk flour, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Rub in butter with your

Her value was now based on weight only, and she had lost many pounds during this stressful ordeal being shipped from Delaware to Kentucky to Louisiana with no food or care.

This once pampered horse was now treated as a meat commodity. The bloody wounds scaring her elegant coat were of no concern where she was going next.

HERD paid her ransom.

Next, she was adopted directly from the kill pen by a nice woman who saves many Thoroughbreds. She placed her at a veterinary facility in Louisiana as she was too sick for travel.

There, our Starlight sat for several months, waiting to go home, but, alas, it was not meant to be.

HERD was contacted to take her back into the fold and get her to Tryon. Heather secured clean transport arrangements, with all the proper documentation, up from Louisiana.

She would travel with a few other nice 62

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

fingers until clumps form and no dry spots remain.

• Heat oven to 350 F. Toast pecans on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until slightly darkened in color, 8–10 minutes.

Let cool, then coarsely chop.

• Smear bottom and sides of a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter. Toss pecans, peaches, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl to combine. Transfer to skillet and crumble topping, breaking up into large pieces, over filling.

• Bake crisp until topping is golden brown and juices are thick and bubbling around the edges, 25–35 minutes.

TIP: Crisp can be made 1 day ahead. Store lightly covered at room temperature. Great with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

horses headed to Virginia.

Strangers No More — our Starlight — arrived in North Carolina and calmly walked off the horse trailer, staggeringly tired. She went straight out into the field and collapsed.

Heather was all alone trying to get the 16.1 hand lanky mare back on her feet. Impending disaster required immediate calls for help.

If Dr. Kris Woodaman had not arrived within 30 minutes, HERD might have lost her. Her thin body was shutting down.

Luckily, with the right combination of medication and fluids, within an hour, she was out exploring her pasture and grazing. A true miracle under the dog star, catastrophe was averted.

Each day, this courageous horse grows stronger, and will one day be ready for a new career. For now, she must eat and rest up in our care.

Heather has been in touch with

Strangers No More’s original owner who bred and sold this beauty. She is horrified her prize weanling ended up in this condition, and has offered a helping hand.

What is in the stars for this young horse, only time will tell, but all of us are now strangers no more! •

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.

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PAST UR TIME FARM Red Wattle Hogs Breeders, Feeders and 300lbers for processing Best tasting pork! Pasture raised! All natural! Call/ text Steve: 954-658-9138 Foothills Amish Furniture Position Available Delivery Driver Must have clean driving record Great pay with benefits.

Call: 828-228-6655 GOOD BY STUMPS Stump Removal Fully Insured Free Quotes! Call Ron at 828-447-8775 Now Accepting Applications for Several Positions • Class A CDL Drivers • Heavy Equipment Operators • Landscape

Supply Yard Associates www.hensonsinc.net Click on Employment Opportunities 828-8595836 Holt’s Grading No Job Too Small•Lawncare•Bobcat Service•Snow Removal•Fence Building•Mechanic/ Servicing•Deck Building/Repairs•Bush Hogging•Driveway Repair•Waterline Repair•Insulation Tractor Work•Trenching Call Brandon Holt (828)8990116 Now Hiring: Hospice of the Carolina Foothills: •Case Manager RN FullTime •RNs & CNAs for Crisis Care as needed Visit www.hocf.org Email hr@hocf.org EOE Are you looking for a great place to work? Housekeepers Needed to work in safe, clean environment.

Competitive pay, great benefits. Drug screen & background check required. Apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville, NC No phone calls, please.

HIRING CNA’s, PCA’s & Experienced Med Techs (cert. req’d). Weekday & weekend. Background check & drug screening req’d. APPLY IN PERSON. Laurel Woods Assisted Living & Memory Care, 1062 W. Mills St, Columbus, NC 28722.

No phone calls.

Private House Cleaning. Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly

or 1 Time. 15 yrs exp.

References upon request.

Free In-home Estimates!

Marjorie 828-817-6350 Mitch Contracting Serving your demolition needs since 1918. We offer roll-off waste containers for home and commercial use.

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

Don’t Miss This One! Only $182,900. New cabin in western NC mtns w/views, fireplace, vault ceilings.

2bed/2bath on 1.57 pvt acres 828-286-2981 Nelon-Cole Termite and Pest ControlLocally Owned and Operated. Pest control including termite, general, carpenter bees/ants, mosquitoes, moisture-control including waterproofing, mold/mildew remediation, indoor air quality and odor control, termite & water damage, repairs. 828-894-2211 Pavillon -PREP/ LINE COOK Leads preparation of meals for clients and employees.

Requirements: •5 years foodservice experience •AA/appropriate certification •Clean criminal background/ drug screen. Benefits package for full-time employees including medical/dental/vision / life insurance, long/ short-term disability, PTO, 401K. View application at: pavillon.org/ employment.php Email: HumanResources SupportTeam@Pavillon. org POLK COUNTY SCHOOLS •SubstituteBus Drivers-$13.74/ Hour •Substitute-Food Service-Worker $8.12/ 2 May 2016

Hour •Part-time Food Service-Worker Polk County High 8:30am2pm M-F $11.75/hour •Full-time Bus Driver/ Custodian Sunny View Tryon Custodian-$11.83/ hour Bus Driver-$13.74/ hour+$.25/hour Local Attendance Supplement visit:www.polkschools. org/employment Call:828-894-1001 Pure Country Inc. is Hiring BtoB Inside Sales Executive. Must have prospecting and customer management/ strong people skills and the ability to work with professionals in a team environment. MondayFriday, full-time. Send resumes to: karlw@ purecountry.com 7-K Garbage Service Monthly • Weekly One Time Service We Pick It Up! 828-894-9948 hyatt2658@yahoo.com Owner - Suzette Hyatt South Carolina Elastic a division of Rhode Island Textile Company is expanding & hiring for full-time positions, all shifts. We offer Medical Insurance, 401k, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Accrued Vacation, Seven Paid Holidays. Apply in person at: 300 Landrum Mill Road Landrum, SC 29356 (8:30am to 4:00pm) A Great Place to Work! Come Join Our Team!

Fifth Wheel 32 Ft. 2007 Sundance by Heartland Three Slides. Fully Loaded Like New $14,500 OBO Call: 864-804-0035 or 864-895-1278 VFW Post 10349 Annual Turkey Shoot. Every Saturday Until December 9th. 10:00am-1:00 pm (except holidays).

We supply the shells.

12ga/16ga/20ga/410ga Lot of good prizes!

3788 E Hwy 108, Mill Spring (828)817-9775 (828)817-0470 WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal. com Meditation FREE Every Wednesday. Qigong class: 6:30-7:00p.m.

Meditation: 7:007:30p.m. Come to one or both. No charge, just locals coming together. In Tryon. Call for directions.

828-273-4342 HAY FOR SALE • Alfalfa / Orchard Mix -or- Timothy Hay for Sale.

Call 828-817-4970 Clement Landscaping 828-894-7051 “Services to meet your needs and lifestyle”. Full Service Maintenance •Installation •Mulching •Clean-Ups •Dry Creek Beds •Tie Walls AND MORE! Storm’s Electrical & Handyman Services •5 years experience •Everything from electrical to yard work!

Located in Landrum, SC. 864-804-8050 Your Charleston, SC Real Estate connection for farms, ranches, homes & waterfront properties. We have it all- from sailing to horses! Susan Bryant AgentOwned Realty 843224-0804 skbryant1@ gmail.com https:// plantationssc.com

Real Estate for Sale: 10 Miles from TIEC •5 Homes •35 Acre Farm •Airport -All by ownerwww.avionre.com Experienced Plumbers - Must have reliable transportation & phone, pass background check/ drug test. Call for appointment: Hyder Plumbing Co, Inc. 615 N. Howard Avenue, Landrum. 864-457-4568 Wildflower Farm Stables- First time on the market! 211 Sea Horse Lane, Huger SC. Incredible 78-acre equestrian property near Charleston/Mt. Pleasant/Daniel Island.

•Custom 2BR/2BA home with master bedroom opening onto screened porch overlooking garden. •2BR/1BA caretaker’s cottage with covered porch.

Center-aisle barn wwith six 12x12 stalls near covered arena •Fourstall barn with studio apartment, tack & feed room. •3+ miles of professionally designed training-level trails •Possible 20-acre parcel for 1-2 acre building lots •Can be purchased as 2 separate parcels. Laurie Minges, REALTOR 843270-7633 lt@scplcaes. com Priscilla Shumway, REALTOR 843-4251850 pshumway@ dunesproperties.com www.dunesproperties. com For Lease: Melrose Mountain, Tryon. 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath. 2000 square feet. $1000 per month + deposit. 828899-0000 Sandhurst Designs Leather Work: Saddle, Tack & Boot Repair, Brass nameplates engraved & installed, Belts, dog collars & leads made &

customized. 687 North Trade Street, Tryon NC. 203-858-0488 NOW HIRING: The Brick Pizzeria & Cafe in Columbus. •Full-time servers & kitchen staff •Experience preferred •Nights/weekends required. Must pass background check. Must be reliable, personable, able to multi-task. Apply in person WednesdaySunday: 214 E. Mill St. Columbus NC STEPS TO HOPE - HELP WANTED: Part-time Thrift Store Warehouse Assistant. Must be able to lift 50+ lbs and work some Saturdays.

20-28 daytime hours per week. Valid driver’s license required. Please send resume to: Steps to HOPE, PO Box 518, Columbus, NC 28722 or apply in person at Second Chance Thrift Store, 232 East Mills Street, Columbus.

TAILORED SLIPCOVERS Slipcovers by Anita.

Yes, I’m still doing Slipcovers..........Sofas, love seats, chairs & cushions. 30 years experience. (828)6254459 FIVE TALENTS SERVICE Bobcat & Backhoe, Concrete, Landscaping, Retaining Walls, Grading & Hauling 20 years’ experience Licensed Bonded Insured FREE ESTIMATES (864)9073892 JA Landscaping Is seeking hard working, motivated individuals that share a love for the outdoors and plants. Part time/full time positions available. Apply online at ja-landscaping.com (828)551-5910

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

65

PARTING GLANCE

Fun and freedom Hundreds flock to downtown Columbus for Fabulous Fourth festival Photography by TED YOAKUM

Hundreds from the Foothills and beyond spent their Independence Day enjoying some good food, pyrotechnics and company during the town of Columbus’ 56th Fabulous Fourth of July festival. The event featured live music, street food and sales, rides for children and — of course — a giant fireworks display to cap off the day of fun and entertainment. • 66

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

ADVERTISER INDEX

Beverly Hanks and Associates Blue Ridge Appliance and Hearth Inc. The Book Shelf Brunson’s Furniture Center and Patio Shoppe Carolina Blinds Carolina Storage Solutions Carruth Furniture Cason Builders Supply Claussen Walters LLC The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant EcoView Windows Doors Siding Freeman Farm Insurance

53 39 56 39 53 15 35 9 13 61 32 63

The Furniture Barn of Hendersonville Heartwood Contemporary Crafts Gallery Henson Building Materials Hilliard Lyons Hospice of the Carolina Foothills JCD Amazing Art Lake Pointe Landing Laurel Hurst / LaurelWoods McFarland Funeral Chapel and Crematory New View Realty Odean Kkever & Associates Inc.

63 9 11 57 5 57 7 9 67 11 11

Parsec Financial Penny Insurance Polk County Transportation Red Bull Run ServiceMaster of Polk County SG Power Equipment Southside Smokehouse St. Luke’s Hospital St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation Tryon Builders Tryon Concert Association Tryon Fine Arts Center Wells Fargo Advisors White Oak Village - Tryon

FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE August 2018

13 47 35 3 49 67 49 68 2 61 59 37 15 4

67

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED EXCEPTIONAL HEALTHCARE, RIGHT HERE IN POLK COUNTY. Foothills Medical Associates Saluda Family Medicine St. Luke’s Hospital Pain Center St. Luke’s Hospital Infusion Center

We’re more than a great hospital, we’re your primary care provider, your pain specialist and your home away from home for chemotherapy and other infusion services. Our skilled medical staff and hospital teammates are committed to providing exceptional care and treatment right here in your hometown.

Foothills Medical Associates Accepting New Patients

828.894.5627

Saluda Family Medicine Accepting New Patients

828.749.0149

St. Luke’s Hospital Pain Center Schedule an appointment with a referral from your primary care provider.

828.894.0978 101 Hospital Drive, Columbus, NC 28722

SaintLukesHospital.com 68

August 2018 FOOTHILLS MAGAZINE

St. Luke’s Hospital Infusion Center Schedule an appointment with a referral from your primary care provider.

828.894.0111