Life in Our Foothills - May 2023

The doctor has exceptional experience in laparoscopic, open, and robotic surgery. Moreover, he is proficient in breast, hernia, biliary, colon, and skin, non-operative management, image-guided diagnostic, elective and emergent endoscopy, and acute care surgery. Dr. Knolhoff also has extensive burn and trauma experience.

Please join us in giving Dr. Knolhoff and his family a huge Polk County welcome.

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Dr. Knolhoff is certified by the American Board of General Surgery. He comes to us with impressive credentials and vast experience in general surgery.

JOSHUA KNOLHOFF, MD — Medical Director of Surgery

CONTRIBUTORS

Mark Levin, Writer and Photographer

Mark is retired from a career in education, both in and outside of the classroom. He enjoys traveling in his campervan and finding stories about the people and places encountered along the way. You can follow his blog at FoothillsFaces.com as well as at youtube.com/ TheCountryLifeWithColumbusMark.

Linda List, Writer and Photographer

Linda List’s career was spent in the food industry, often surrounded by chocolate and candy. Retirement and the Tryon Daily Bulletin have provided the opportunity for her to share her writing. Growing up in New York on the Canadian border, she lived most of her adult life at the foot of the Rockies in Golden, Colo. And is now enjoying life in Landrum the foot of the Smokies.

Clay Johnson, Writer and Photographer

Clay is an award-winning documentary producer and writer as well as a contributing producer for PBS NC’s “North Carolina Weekend” show. He also produces educational videos and writes magazine and newspaper articles. Johnson and his wife Debra moved to Tryon in June 2021 and enjoy exploring the outdoors. He can be reached at cj@ clayjohnsonproductions.com.

Claire Sachse, Writer and Photographer

Once the editor of the Tryon Daily Bulletin, Claire Sachse now manages several freelance side-hustles in the public relations and publishing arena. She’s also working on writing a mystery novel in which an editor solves crimes in a fictional (maybe) mountain railroad town. Raised by a painter and a diplomat, she considers herself immensely lucky to have a home full of weird and wonderful art, and a passport full of stamps.

Storme Smith, Writer and Photographer

Storme Smith is a writer who lives in the Foothills of North Carolina. He is the co-founder and publisher of Buno Books, and has a passion for the arts. He also enjoys writing about the history, sports and unique people and places of our area.

Pebbles, Writer

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

ON THE COVER

I enjoy having first glance at all the stories in each month’s Life in Our Foothills. While I don’t always plan each issue around a theme, sometimes a theme emerges by accident.

As the Swedish band ABBA sang, “Take a chance on me.” That lyric lends itself as a fitting theme for this magazine. Whether we take a chance or leap of faith on a new business or personal endeavor, we all take risks. In this issue, there is a community of animal lovers, artists, business owners, and healers who share their stories of the ride.

Our resident “spokespony” Pebbles shares a tale that perfectly captures this idea. Pebbles describes Windsor as rescued from a humble, muddy pen one day away from slaughter. Three years and much patient love later, his potential is fully recognized. He is now a fearless, confident, handsome, born leader.

Our story about 80Six Gallery reads like a who’s who of top-notch, super talented local and regional artists whose works are displayed by gallery owner Chuck Mattern, who decided to open the gallery in his retirement. Today, he is not only realizing his painting passion, but he is sharing with the community a wide variety of notable art.

Acupuncture may not be the first healing modality, or type of medical practice, that comes to mind for the typical Polk resident. However, with 3,000 years of practice behind it, Candice Behan, owner of Clover Acupuncture in Tryon, asks Polk residents to explore the possibilities for health and healing from a new, different, holistic perspective.

It’s not every day that we decide to pick up our family, move nearly 1,000 miles away, start life over, and open a business. But that is what Stephanie Bakanosky did when she moved from Massachusetts to Landrum, and opened her pet supply store, The Southern Pet. She received a warm Landrum welcome, and is even thinking of expansion plans!

Lastly, when was the last time you took a chance at learning a new game with a funnysounding name? Have you ever heard of pickleball?

Photographer Mark Levin captures a fun group in Columbus that is trying something new, and having a great time!

We hope you enjoy what we’ve put together this month. As always, I encourage readers to reach out and help us share your story. Email me at jeff. allison@tryondailybulletin.com with any thoughts or ideas for upcoming issues. As always, thanks for reading.

Jeff Allison Editor

Jeff Allison Editor

life IN OUR STAFF

General Manager

Jeff Allison

Graphic Design

Justin Akey

Marketing

Kevin Powell

Linne Gilbert

Distribution

Jamie Lewis

Administration

Sydney Wilkie

FOOTHILLS

Life in Our Foothills is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Life in Our Foothills is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Tryon Newsmedia LLC. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Please address all correspondence (including, but not limited to, letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to Manager, Life in Our Foothills, 16. N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782, or email to jeff.allison@ tryondailybulletin.com. Life in Our Foothills is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and Upstate South Carolina, and online at www.tryondailybulletin.com. Subscriptions are available for $30 per year by calling 828-859-9151. To advertise, call 828-859-9151.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tryon Concerts presents: American Brass Quintet

May 4, 7:30 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave., Tryon Tryonconcerts.org, 888-501-0297

Tryon Adult Prom Fundraiser

May 5, 7-10 p.m.

The Congregational Church

210 Melrose Ave., Tryon 828-859-9414 or 828-513-0570

Saluda Tailgate Market

May 5, 12, 19, 26 at 4:30 p.m. West Main Street, Saluda

Columbus Farmers Market

May 6, 13, 20 and 27, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Courthouse Square, Columbus

Landrum Farmers Market

May 6, 13, 20, and 27, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

221 W. Rutherford St, Landrum

Little Sprouts Garden Club at the Market

May 6, 13, 20, and 27, 10 a.m. 221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum

World Labyrinth Day

May 6, 1 p.m.

Adawehi Wellness Center 401 Adawehi Ct., Columbus Adawehi.com

Opening Reception

May 6, 5 p.m.

Tryon Painters & Sculptors

78 N. Trade St., Tryon

Tryonpaintersandsculptors.com, 828859-0141

Chase Away the Blues

May 6, 5:30 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave., Tryon 828-859-8322, tryonarts.org

17th Annual Spring Green Bash

May 6, 6 p.m.

Green River Adventures

111 E. Main Street, Saluda Saluda.com

Mountain Page Theater presents:

“The Wizard of Oz”

May 6, 13 at 6 p.m., May 7, 14 at 1 p.m.

1303 Mountain Page Rd., Saluda mountainpage.theater/shows

Artists & Writers Coffee

May 6, 13, 20 and 27, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave, Tryon TryonArts.org, 828-859-8322

Community Chorus 2023 Spring Concert

May 7, 3 p.m.

Polk County High School 1681 NC-108, Columbus

Movie Screening: Ocean’s 11

May 9, 5:30 p.m. party, 7 p.m. screening

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave, Tryon 828-859-8322, tryonarts.org

Amphitheater Series: Fancy and the Gentlemen

May 11, 6:30 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave, Tryon Tryonarts.org, 828-859-8322

Tryon Little Theater presents: “Boeing Boeing”

May 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.

May 14, 21 at 3 p.m.

Tryon Little Theater

516 S. Trade St., Tryon 828-859-2466, tltinfo.org.

Celebrity Roast for Dean Trakas & Tyron History Museum Fundraiser

May 12, 6 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave, Tryon Tryonarts.org

Arden Cone

Open Jam Bluegrass Festival

May 13, 11 a.m.

Stearns Park

125 E. Mills St, Columbus

Annual Car Cruise-In

May 13, 3 p.m.

Old Mill Market Square

151 Southern Mercerizing Rd, Tryon oldmillmarketsquare.com/, 828-8595467

Upstairs Artspace Opening

Reception for “Time’s Witness”

Artist Walk & Talk with Arden Cone and Milicent Kennedy

May 13, 4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Upstairs Artspace

49 S. Trade St, Tryon upstairsartspace.org.

Friends of Ag Breakfast

May 17, 7 a.m.

Green Creek Community Center

25 Shields Dr., Tryon 828-894-2281

Landrum High School Graduation

May 18, 6 p.m.

Landrum High School

18818 Asheville Hwy., Campobello, SC

Tips for Renovating Your Home Landscape

May 18, 6 p.m.

Landrum Library

111 Asbury Dr., Landrum 864-457-2218

Amphitheater Series: The Darren Nicholson Band

May 18, 6:30 p.m. Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave., Tryon Tryonarts.org, 828-859-8322

Saluda Depot Train Tales: Will Passenger Trains Return to WNC?

May 19, 7 p.m.

Saluda Historic Depot and Museum

32 W. Main St., Saluda SaludaHistoricDepot.com

18th Annual Saluda Arts Festival Featuring Asheville Junction & Life Like Water

May 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Downtown Saluda Saluda.com

Walnut Creek Preserve

Speaker Series:

Hickory Nut Gorge – Nature’s Treasure Chest

May 20, 10:30 a.m.

Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center

179 Wood Thrush Ln., Mill Spring ConservingCarolina.org

Landrum Library Speaker Series: Cherokees of the Carolinas

May 23, 6 p.m.

Landrum Library

111 Asbury Dr., Landrum ConservingCarolina.org

Foothills Dementia/Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group

May 24, 3 p.m.

Polk County Senior Center

75 Carmel Ln., Columbus 828-859-6339

Amphitheater Series: Christian Lopez and Band

May 25, 6:30 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

34 Melrose Ave, Tryon Tryonarts.org

USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championships

May 26-28, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tryon International Equestrian Center

25 International Blvd., Mill Spring Tryon.com

Fourth Fridays in Tryon

May 26, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Trade St., Downtown Tryon

Millicent Kennedy

LifeLikeWater

Pickleball Tournament in Columbus

The Fastest Growing Sport in America is Already Here

are having a hard time building courts fast enough.

The Foothills are alive with the sound of pickleball. You can find it in gyms and churches, indoors or out, morning, noon, and night. If you’ve missed out on the pickleball experience, it’s time for a little enlightenment.

When folks excitedly talk about “Ernie, switching, dinks, and staying out of the kitchen,” you’ll know they’re talking about pickleball. Pickleball is a sport for all ages, though it seems adults are entering the excitement at a feverish pitch. Communities

Polk County and the Upstate are both teeming with pickleball enthusiasts. These photos are from a recent tournament held at Stearns Gym in Columbus. The contestants were raring to hit the court, which is amazingly small – making it easily adaptable to tight spaces.

So, what is the sport? Pickleball is played with a small “whiffle” ball and has been compared to playing ping-pong while standing on the table. Have you heard about the “kitchen?” You won’t get burned

and it requires no culinary expertise! And amazingly, there’s not a pickle in sight. It’s best to experience it rather than explain it. But ultimately, you’ll find that it’s not all that mysterious. There’s so much joy and laughter in playing pickleball that newcomers will be joining the bandwagon in no time. You can learn to play the game in 45 minutes, but it takes a lifetime to master.

Give it a try – you’ve got nothing to lose and a world of fun to gain. Visit Stearns Gym in Columbus late morning most any Monday or Wednesday to check it out.

Photos by Mark Levin

Lisa McAlpine, Astrid Schmid and Donna Donnelly take on a lot of the organizational tasks for Polk County Pickleball.

Stearns Gym in Columbus has room for two courts. There is a fundraising effort underway to build several outdoor courts at Harmon Field.

80Six Gallery Getting to know the art and artists

Story and photography

by Storme Smith

The space at 86 North Trade St. in Tryon has been many things over the building’s 100-year existence, including a bar, boutique and bookshop. In recent years, it has become home to the 80Six Gallery, which features some of the top contemporary artists in the Carolinas while also serving as the studio for owner, curator, and artist Chuck Mattern of Tryon.

Originally from Long Island, N.Y., Chuck has lived in western North Carolina for 32 years. After spending many years in Sarasota, Fla., he and his wife Pam, who occasionally works in the gallery, chose WNC to enjoy the beauty of all four seasons. Mattern ran a sign and graphics company in Hendersonville for 15 years before becoming a painter in his retirement.

Mattern built the kiosks and redid the walls at 80Six Gallery,

which are now filled with the work of local artists, primarily abstract paintings with a few realism pieces in the mix. The artists with work on display are from all over the Carolinas—Columbia, Charlotte, Asheville, Hendersonville and Polk County. He opened the doors in 2020 on Labor Day and now has a waiting list of artists interested in renting wall space.

“Painting was something I always wanted to do, and I have been doing it for about a decade,” Mattern says.

“I spent time in the River Art District of Asheville at 362 Depot St., an area well known for its art scene. Eventually, I opened the 80Six out of personal convenience. Since it serves a dual purpose as my studio.”

Mattern describes the gallery as “colorful and friendly.” His work is contemporary and abstract, including thought-provoking paintings created on large wooden canvases he puts together himself. His mixedmedia works are often layered with caulk to create a threedimensional work of art.

Visitors to 80Six can usually find Mattern creating his latest piece. His work, as well as the work featured by other artists, is inspired by the natural beauty of the Carolina Foothills and beyond.

Mattern takes commissions and has done jobs for breweries, restaurants and

Arist Pat Cato of Taylors stands beside some of her recently hung paintings.

The abstract expressionist painting of Linda Haywood.

personal collections. Though there is one painting he doesn’t plan on selling—a beer bottle with a label displaying the name of his dog, Dugan. “I’ll paint someone else a similar piece, but I’m holding onto that painting.”

Local and regional artists are featured extensively at the gallery, with paintings, pottery, sculpture, textile art and stained glass on display.

Abstract artist Pat Cato creates mixed-media work with acrylics, inks, oil pastels, graphite and sometimes cloth, and she recently had new work featured. “Color and texture are very important to me to bring emotion and volume to the painting,” says Cato. “I hope my work will make the viewer stop and look and make their conclusions. This, I believe, is the fun and fascination of art.”

Lydia Juenger’s art is described as “containing

Glenn, messenger of music

Some of Pat Cato’s abstract paintings waiting to be hung.

clarity and conciseness, which allows her work to take on a life of its own.” A Mill Spring resident, Lydia owns and operates Fox Meadow Farm and is one of the many Foothills artists with work on display at 80Six Gallery. The work of one of the

Foothills’ most well-known artists, Bernard Edwards, can also be seen on its walls. Edwards, originally from Spartanburg, began carving wooden decoy ducks as a kid. Since then, he has whittled every animal that can be found in the area and

then some, creating threedimensional wall pieces that catch the attention of visitors. Denise Cwik of Tryon, known for her beautifully rendered colored pencil work, has her art displayed and has been featured in other galleries in the area as well. Cwik has also

taught classes at Tryon Painters and Sculptors.

The artist on display who lives the furthest away from Trade St. is realist Ben Compton of Lexington, S.C. An architect by trade, Compton is an oil painter who has made a career by utilizing

By Marc Camoletti

Looking back from Chuck’s studio into the Gallery space.

his creativity.

Lynn Padgett of Hendersonville fits right in with the other abstract artists that fill the walls. A member of Tryon Painters and Sculptors, Rutherford County Visual Artists Guild and the Art League of Henderson County, her abstract paintings tell a different story to each viewer.

Visitors to 80Six Gallery will also find the paintings of Becky Hyatt Rickenbacker, whose pieces can be seen through the sun-filled front windows with natural light illuminating the animals she recreates on canvas, and the work of Lynn Dulken, who incorporates encaustics, paper, acrylics and other mixed media into her art to accentuate her signature use of alcohol inks.

Tryon artist Barbara Thomas has worked with various fabrics over the past 30 years, and has found dyes and silk to be her favorite mediums. Her work

The exterior of the 80Six Gallery on 86 N. Trade St. in Tryon.

Chuck Mattern in his studio working on his latest painting.

style

Pottery lovers will enjoy the stunning works of Jim Cullen, owner of Roundhouse Pottery, who has taught courses at Tryon Arts and Crafts School and the Chapman Cultural Center. His works are carefully crafted pieces that showcase both utility and uniqueness.

Other artists that have had work displayed at 80Six Gallery in recent years include Christine Mariotti, Dee Santorini, Jerry La Point, Marry Verrandeaux and Cindy Roddey.

80Six Gallery is open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and from 11 to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Every Fourth Friday, the gallery stays open from 5-7 p.m. For more information, visit 80sixgallery.wixsite.com or call (828) 699-3584.

There’s a storefront catio where the shop cats can spend their days watching the customers.

The Southern Pet

Helping You Take Better Care of Your Pet

It was a gutsy move for Stephanie Bakanosky to pack up her family, leave Massachusetts, and head down South to make a new life in Landrum. She knew she wanted to start a high-end pet supply business wherever she landed. Stephanie was managing

such a store in Massachusetts and had other work experiences in animal care. The fact that Stephanie’s parents had moved to the area several years ago made the decision to move a bit easier. In fact, Stephanie’s mom, Robin LeClair, helps in the store several days a week and serves as bus driver to pick up Stephanie’s boys from school.

Stephanie had heard from mom about how dynamic the Landrum downtown scene is and that it’s just going to get even busier. Landrum was her first choice to land her new business, “The Southern Pet.” It doesn’t hurt that she is just up the block a couple of doors from P3 Consignments, a unique store that provides support for all the local animal welfare groups. “In a way,”

Story and Photography by Mark Levin

Stephanie says, “we’ve almost become sister stores.”

With six pets of her own (four cats and two dogs), Stephanie has become very cautious and fussy about the food and treats she gives them. Her years managing the pet supply store back in Massachusetts gave Stephanie the knowledge and background in what to look for in a quality pet food. Stephanie also knows how time spent with a patron asking the right questions can help her give a guided choice to make a difference in a pet’s health.

These days, pet parents want what’s best for their dog or cat or another animal companion. Pets have become beloved members of the family. The Southern Pet has upped the game to make sure they can offer pets the best foods, snacks, supplements, and even toys available.

One obvious quality that customers have come to appreciate is all the time Stephanie and Robin take to discuss their pets’ special needs. It could be a skin issue, a stomach issue, or a particularly picky eater. They listen, offers suggestions, and even let customers take home

some samples to try before committing to a whole bag. But if a customer buys the bag and it’s just not working, Stephanie will take it back and give them a store credit. The returned food is offered to P3 Consignments in hopes of matching it with one of the local animal rescues or

even to a family who might be struggling financially so they can provide for their pets.

The foods and treats you find lining the shelves in The Southern Pet won’t be found in big chain stores. Her products are almost totally from small family run

businesses. She researches each product before placing it in her shop. Stephanie says, “I’m very cautious about what I bring in. I want to know where it is sourced, where it’s manufactured, what the ingredients are, and where those ingredients come from.” Her standards often

exceed what the government allows in pet food.

Stephanie explains that cats and dogs are carnivores at heart. So much processed food you pick up at the neighborhood supermarket might say it’s “meat flavored” or might include a notice that some sort of meat is the “first ingredient.” But those food are often mixed with mostly cereals. Dogs and cats will eat it, if that’s all they’re getting… but Stephanie knows it’s not what’s best for their bodies.

The Southern Pet is fully stocked for all your dog and cat needs. There are a couple of shop cats who make sure they get first dibs from each new shipment. Stephanie is adding supplies for other pets as well. She already has some horse provisions and supplements and will be adding items for other household pets including rabbits, Guinea pigs, birds,

Stephanie Bakanosky, owner of The Southern Pet.

and even mice. In addition to a large selection of foods including raw items, the store also has supplements, treats, chews, raw bones, grooming supplies, interactive toys, travel carriers and accessories, and pet beds. In fact, Robin and Stephanie even handcraft macrame cat beds. They’ve been a hit with cats including her own.

Recently, she has been offering a program called UCARI. It’s a pet sensitivity and intolerance test. Pet parents send in some pet hair samples to the lab. Two days after reaching the lab, Stephanie will have the complete results to discuss with the pet’s owner. This can answer a lot of questions about a pet’s specific dietary needs.

Stephanie is very pleased with the welcome she’s received. Business is growing and she is thrilled to have so

Robin LeClair and Stephanie Bakanosky enjoy snuggling with visiting dogs, Mia and Sophie.

Business Info:

The Southern Pet is located at 116 East Rutherford Street in Landrum. 864/ 457-1224. www.TheSouthernPet.us.

Follow them on all the usual social media outlets. Open Tuesday-Saturdays.

many repeat customers. New folks discover the store every day. Eventually she might look for a larger space but is quick to mention that it will be in Landrum. With more room, she could carry more of everything. And, with more space, Stephanie would consider adding other services. Examples might include a “spa” day

where pets can get their nails trimmed and she might even provide a do-it-yourself petwash station.

When your pets are happy and healthy, it’s a good day. Stephanie Bakanosky wants to do her part to help you improve your pet’s health, extend their lives, and help them live the best life they can. It’s a win-win.

Amphitheater Series

An eclectic mix of music outdoors at Tryon Fine Arts Center awaits you this spring — from energetic folk to blends of country and rock. 90-minute concerts begin at 6:30 pm in the Peterson Amphitheater.

APRIL 27

Smilo and the Ghost

MAY 11

Fancy and the Gentlemen

MAY 18

The Darren Nicholson Band

MAY 25

Christian Lopez and Band

JUNE 1

Queen Bee and the Honeylovers

tickets

$10/Concert; $45/Series plus taxes and fees

Visit tryonarts.org/events for tickets. Box Office Hours: Tue-Fri 10am–4pm. Or use QR code for ticket purchase.

In the case of inclement weather, the show will be moved to the main stage.

One of the brand new examination rooms.

Clover Acupuncture and Wellness Healing through holistic medicine

photography by Storme Smith

The history of acupuncture goes back over 3,000 years. In recent decades, its popularity has grown worldwide. The first documentation of acupuncture that described it as an organized system of diagnosis and treatment is recorded in The Yellow Emperor’s

Classic of Internal Medicine, from 100 BC.

Clover Acupuncture and Wellness, located at 31 S. Trade St. in Tryon, stands as more proof of the growing popularity of this specific therapeutic technique of Chinese medicine. Licensed Acupuncturist Candice Behan, the owner and operator of Clover Acupuncture and Wellness,

describes acupuncture as being the “last resort with the best results” for anyone dealing with chronic pain, migraines, and other common disorders.

In addition to acupuncture, the recently renovated facility offers massage, facials, and herbs used for general wellness.

Candice came to Tryon from South Florida by way of Ireland,

Story and

where she lived for several years with her husband, Simon. She’s been an acupuncturist for 12 years, and is also a licensed herbalist. Candice had originally looked into opening a shop in Asheville. Her parents live in the area, and Behan began working temporarily in Tryon while getting settled. She really liked it and didn’t relish commuting to Asheville daily, so in 2018 she set up shop on N. Trade St. in Tryon. Recently, she moved from one end of Trade St. to the after purchasing and refurbishing the new location.

“I was going to an acupuncturist myself and asking a lot of questions, “Behan says when asked how she got into the field. “My acupuncturist suggested, I attend the local college where he was the head of the

Owner Candice Behan (left) and Office Manager Kelly Thompson (right).

department.

Part of the ancient practice of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is the practice of penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles, which are then activated through gentle and specific movements of the practitioner’s hands or with electrical stimulation. Practitioners use numerous acupuncture points connected by pathways or meridians. These pathways create an energy flow, qi (pronounced ‘chee’). Applying acupuncture to specific points helps to improve the flow of qi.

A first-time visit always begins with a consultation to understand a patient’s specific problems or goals. At the detailed sit-down, Behan will discuss whether acupuncture is a good fit for someone who is interested in the services.

“The one thing I wish

The building, owned by Candice Behan, was completely renovated.

more people knew about acupuncture is how much it can treat. It’s a versatile medicine,” says Behan. “It’s designed to treat many things and treat them successfully. We practice a holistic approach here. The word holistic means dealing with the whole. From this definition, we understand holistic medicine involves the wellness of the whole person.”

Even Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, took a holistic approach to treat disease, encouraged self-healing of the body. The holistic approach of Clover is highlighted by their team, that also features Licensed Esthetician Kellie Byron, Licensed Massage & Body Work Therapist Kim Engle, and Office Manager Kelly Thompson, who is likely to be the first voice many customers will hear when they

Clover offers many other services besides acupuncture.

call to make an appointment.

Byron provides services focused on skin care, including skin treatments, facials, makeup application and hair removal. She

individually tailors to each client’s needs and goals.

Engle provides massage therapy that can address various health conditions, such as high blood pressure,

insomnia or heart disease, depending on the type of massage. Massage therapists typically focus on the muscles, whereas a bodyworker’s primary goal is

to improve the body’s skeletal structure, alignment and energy flow.

“I love the experience of working with the clients and being able to come

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to work in such a calm relaxing environment with a wonderful boss like Candice,” says Thompson.

Clover Acupuncture and Wellness also offers essential oils, Chinese herbal medicine, and CBD products.

“Holistic medicine is about treating the whole body. Chinese medicine wants to know why those specific areas give a patient problems by looking at the body as a whole,” adds Behan. “There is almost nothing Chinese medicine can’t address. If you are dealing with some kind of discomfort, you should consider trying acupuncture. We are usually the last resort when someone is dealing with chronic pain, but we have some of the best results. Chinese medicine asks questions to help solve the problem, where, what, how,

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and why. Acupuncture works well when no one can figure out the problem. It gives a different perspective.”

Clover’s recently refurbished facility offers a calm and beautiful environment, with renovations done by Greg Junge Construction. They kept the classic ceiling in the building while adding multiple examination rooms and creating a stunning decor, filled with aloe plants and natural light.

For more information on Clover Acupuncture and Wellness, visit cloveracupuncture.com. For an appointment, call (828) 817-9883. Its operating hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.

The exterior of 31 Trade St., home of Clover Acupuncture & Wellness.

A PRINCE OF A PONY

By Pebbles

In May 2023, Windsor celebrates his third birthday.

He narrowly escaped perishing at the tender age of seven months. My mistress, Heather

Freeman, and our rescue team of volunteers at Helping Equines Regain Dignity spotted him on a YouTube video. He was standing in a muddy pen at the largest kill buyer’s facility in Oklahoma.

Many horses and donkeys from

North and South Carolina end up at this terrible place. From there they make their final journey, in a crowded commercial trailer to Mexico, to be slaughtered for human consumption. Windsor was with his pregnant mother facing

a grim fate. She was a red roan, Haflinger cross pony. She was not halter broke to lead, and neither was her bright-eyed colt. To reflect on his humble beginning and look at how far along he has come in our care, well, it is an amazing success story. He truly is a prince of a pony among his equine peers. He has almost as much presence as I do, and that is saying something!

Windsor is fearless and handsome, with a rugged, jagged blaze on his expressive face. There is no missing this bright chestnut with three tall stocking legs as he trots confidently to the fence. Although he currently stands only 14.1 hands tall, he is mighty. Windsor is a born leader. He rules even in the group of much larger horses at our rescue. He calls the shots concerning when it is time to graze and when he wants his band of geldings to play. They frolic, kicking up their heels, with tails held high in the spring morning.

It turns out that Windsor’s sire was also at that same kill pen. This stoic stud stood out in the crowded pen, as his muscular build was impressive. His brilliant red coat and chiseled head made it clear to us why he had been used for breeding. We were informed that this magnificent quarter horse possessed foundation bloodlines that reached back to the famous sire, Joe Hancock. The “original” American Quarter Horse versatility sire, Hancock was a 15.3-hand brown stallion who was inducted into the AQHA Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2007, Western Horseman magazine chose Joe Hancock as number three on their list of top ten ranch horse bloodlines.

It was clear to us that we also needed to help get this stallion and the pregnant mare out of this awful situation. First, HERD raised the funds to save Windsor. Then we went on to assist another horse rescuer with purchasing the mare, her belly dropped, with a foal on the way. Next, a member of our HERD network of friends, Karen Hopkins, bought the stallion. He would travel to North Carolina with Windsor. They both would become geldings as soon as their procedures could be performed

Who can resist Windsor’s striking blaze?

safely. In HERD we are compelled to stick with these young horses every step of the way. Our goal is to help them find their best-suited role for a productive, long life.

Upon arrival at our ranch, Windsor had to live in a quarantine pen for one month. This gave us time to fully halter-break the regal colt and get to know him. The next step was to pick an older pasture mate for him that would guide him to be respectful. We selected a large, kind thoroughbred named Pope. The two looked very similar with their chestnut coats and white stockings. Pope towered over Windsor. While Pope was laid back and a bit shut down from his precious experiences, Windsor was inquisitive and tested his rank in this new situation. When Pope was rehomed to a therapy

Windsor with volunteer Valerie Lowe training in HERD

program in South Carolina, Windsor moved out to a field with three younger, playful geldings. Here, he flourished as a leader despite the fact he was smaller than his companions.

Time marches on so quickly these days. I look out through my pasture gate at the bevy of young horses that are growing up here with us. They arrive at our rescue thin, and often confused as to what has happened to them in their short life. Windsor was so different. He has always been confident, making new friends easily, including Merlin, Hercules, Torino, Ishmael, Ming and Leo, to name a few.

Some of Windsor’s pals have already left us to enter training; others need more time to mature. A few of his buddies are successfully placed in their careers

Windsor in his quarantine pen in HERD

winning at horse shows. With each rotation of pasture mates, Windsor adapted well. He is unfazed by reestablishing his authority in new scenarios.

At three years old, it is time for Windsor to enter saddle training with a professional. He is going to Kailey Greene in Rutherfordton. We have done all the necessary groundwork to ensure his manners are impeccable. He accepts a bridle, saddle and a rider on his back. Windsor is a gentleman loading onto the horse trailer and standing still for the farrier. Now he must go to “finishing school” to help him find the perfect path.

Windsor is a clean slate with a zest for life. He loves to spend time pushing and tackling a large rubber horse ball around his nine-acre pasture. This athletic game

Windsor assisting volunteer Bill McClelland with pasture pal, Pope

Windsor with volunteer Kathy Milroy

makes him an excellent candidate for sorting cattle. The young gelding also has lots of chrome, so a show ring pony hunter job might also suit him. His stamina and bravery would serve him well to pursue endurance challenges or pony club trials. With so much potential, Windsor will have versatile options going forward into his new life.

To think he was a day

away from shipping with his sire and dam to slaughter across the border. His life would have been over tragically before it began. Windsor is maturing to be a special partner for one lucky equestrian. We have high hopes for this regal equine. He certainly deserves a royal welcome in an outstanding new home this summer. After all, Windsor is a prince of a pony.

Windsor showing his fancy moves

A TRADITIONAL BREAKFAST WITH A TWIST

The same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot.

Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage Fresh Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. It’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter if the hours ahead are filled with work, school or play.

A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple

syrup at the end, even adults can’t help but indulge in these breakfast bites.

This is a quick dish too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups

Servings: 12

Ingredients

12 sausage links

2 eggs

2/3 cup milk

3 teaspoons almond extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half

3 tablespoons butter syrup

Directions

In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk,

almond extract and cinnamon.

Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Place roll-ups in skillet, seam-side down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes.

Drizzle with syrup.

INSPIRE CREATIVITY WITH FUN SNACK HACKS S

chool days offer nearly endless opportunities for learning and exploration in the classroom, but education doesn’t have to end with the final bell. Parents can ensure their students feel energetic, creative and confident by inspiring snack choices that are as smart as they are fun to make together.

Whether you’re whipping up a snack to send to school or your little learners need an energy boost before starting afternoon homework, creative snacking can help encourage inspiration. As a trusted ally with better-for-you and convenient whole-fruit lunchbox snacks kids can enjoy, Sun-Maid offers these easy tips and ways to embrace the fun side of snack time.

• Keep It Simple: Look for recipes with five ingredients or less so your children can show their artful nature without becoming overwhelmed. Plus, this often leads to a more budget-friendly at-home treat.

• Shop Together: Gathering ingredients and equipment is an important part of any recipe, and bringing your future chefs along helps them feel like it’s their creation from start to finish. Additionally, some important life lessons can be learned along the way, like how to navigate the store and compare costs.

• Provide Kid-Friendly Instructions: There are many ways kids can lend a hand in making their own snacks, like mixing ingredients, washing produce or arranging a plate or platter. However, some steps are best left to the adults - make sure to do any cutting, slicing or dicing before letting children take the reins, for example, then just enjoy the creative fun.

With childhood favorites like crackers, marshmallows and vanilla yogurt covered raisins, Gimme S’mores Trail Mix offers a perfect way to get young minds thinking in the kitchen. A little guidance is all it takes to teach them each step of the recipe to make a crafty, delicious treat. Plus, with only a few simple ingredients that just need to be mixed together, it’s a low-stress, low-mess way to cook up creativity.

Find more sweet ideas to inspire confidence and creativity at sunmaid.com.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

1/2 cup Sun-Maid Vanilla Yogurt Covered Raisins

3 cups graham crackers, assorted flavors

1 1/2 cups colored mini marshmallows

2 cups slivered almonds

1 cup chocolate chips

Directions

In large bowl, mix raisins, graham crackers, marshmallows, almonds and chocolate chips. Serve immediately, or store in airtight container up to 1 week.

Gimme S’mores Trail Mix

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