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.
Emily Williams, Writer and Photographer
Emily Williams is a recent graduate of North Greenville University with a Bachelor of Arts in English. She is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing while working as a substitute teacher. In her free time, Emily loves to explore Western North Carolina, try out new coffee shops, and write fiction and nonfiction alike.
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
Jeff Allison Publisher
ON THE COVER
There’s nothing quite like autumn in the Foothills! As the cooler weather brings an enjoyable crisp to the air and the magnificent golden-yellow and auburn leaves reveal their true beauty, now is the perfect time to get out and experience all our area has to offer.
This month, we visit the Poinsett Bridge in Greenville County, a local landmark steeped in history and legend. Built in the early 1800s, it’s the oldest bridge in South Carolina, and some visitors have reported ghostly encounters there that defy explanation.
We also meet with the organizers of the Tryon International Film Festival, which is celebrating its tenth year this month. Taking place Thursday, October 10 through Sunday, October 13, TRIFF brings visitors from across the world to Tryon, uniting the community through the power of film.
We also visit with Carol Browning, president of the Second Wind Hall of Fame, an organization dedicated to honoring outstanding volunteers and retirees who continue to embody a life of service well into their golden years. Additionally, we hear from Pebbles, our resident spokespony, as she shares the journey of one of her pasturemates.
You’ll find all this and more in this month’s edition! We hope you enjoy what we’ve put together for you this month, and as I do each month, 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
Story by Clay Johnson
International Film Festival
Wind Hall of Fame
Publisher & General Manager
Jeff Allison
FOOTHILLS life IN OUR STAFF
Graphic Design
Prakhar Khare
Marketing
MJ Parsons
Distribution
Jamie Lewis
Alex Greene
Administration
Stacey Tully
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
All Members Exhibit: Autumn Glory
Through Nov. 9
Tryon Painters and Sculptors 78 N. Trade St., Tryon 828-859-0141, Tryonpaintersandsculptors.com
Dale McEntire: Reflections Along the Path
Oct. 6 – Dec. 20
Opening Reception Oct. 6, 2pm
Upstairs Artspace 49 N. Trade St., Tryon 828-859-2828, Upstairsartspace.org
Westside Mixer
Oct. 4, 6pm
Tryon Arts and Crafts School 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon 828-859-8323, Tryonartsandcrafts.org
Saluda Tailgate Market
Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, from 4-6pm 214 E. Main St., Saluda
Columbus Farmers Market
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 8am-12pm Courthouse St., Columbus
Landrum Farmers Market
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 8am-12pm 221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum Landrumfarmersmarket.com
Music at the Market presents: Soulified
Oct. 5, 7pm
221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum Landrumfarmersmarket.com
Saturday Night Lights
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26, from 4-10pm Tryon International Equestrian Center
Resort.Tryon.com/snl
THROUGH OCT. 18
Pauline Miller Cowan, Tryon, NC, 1930s
Photograph by Bayard Wootten
Through Oct. 18
Tryon Arts and Crafts School 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon 828-859-8323, Tryonartsandcrafts.org
OCT. 8
Tryon Concert Association presents ATOS Trio
Oct. 8, 7:30pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon TryonConcerts.org
OCT. 10-13
Tryon International Film Festival
Oct. 10-13
Locations Around Tryon TryonInternationalFilmFestival.org
Yoga @ Your Library
Oct. 2, 9, 23, 30 at 4pm Landrum Library 111 Asbury Dr., Landrum
Saluda Library Speaker Series: Reading Trees
Oct. 8, 2pm
44 W. Main St., Saluda ConservingCarolina.org
World Wanderings (Ireland, Halloween)
Oct. 8, 3:30pm Columbus Library 1289 W. Mills St., Columbus Sign Up:jdickenson@polklibrary. org
Empty Bowls 2024
Oct. 11, 4-7pm Parker-Binns Vineyard, Mill Spring Tboutreach.org
Ache Around the Lake Oct. 12, 8am FoundationSLH.org
OCT. 16
La Terza Classe
Oct. 10-13
Oct. 16, 6:30pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
34 Melrose Ave., Tryon TryonArts.org
Saluda Art Stroll
Oct. 12, 4-6pm W. Main St., Saluda
6th Annual Golf Tournament for
Saluda Historic Depot
Oct. 14, 11am
Bright’s Creek Club SaludaHistoricDepot.com/annualgolf-tournament
Dance the Night Away
Oct. 15, 6:30pm Tryon Fine Arts Center 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon TryonArts.org
Live@Lanier presents NC
Pottery with Steve Compton
Oct. 17, 1pm Lanier Library 72 Chestnut St., Tryon TheLanierLibrary.org
Business After Hours
Oct. 17, 5:30pm
Thermal Belt Outreach 134 White Dr., Columbus
CarolinaFoothillsChamber.com
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Weather
Oct. 17, 5:30pm Landrum Library 111 Asbury Dr., Landrum 864-457-2218
Saluda Train Tales Oct. 18, 7pm
Saluda Historic Depot and Museum
32 W. Main St., Saluda SaludaHistoricDepot.com/events
Walnut Creek Preserve Speaker Series
Landscaping with Native Plants Oct. 19, 10:30am
Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center
179 Wood Thrush Lane, Mill Spring ConservingCarolina.org
Music at the Market presents: Jarrett Forrester
Oct. 19, 7pm
221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum Landrumfarmersmarket.com
Landrum Library Speaker Series:
Owls of the Carolinas Oct. 22, 6pm Landrum Library 111 Asbury Dr., Landrum ConservingCarolina.org
Fourth Friday in Tryon Oct. 25, 5-7pm Trade St., Downtown Tryon
Landrum Quilters Quilting Bee
Oct. 28, 9:30am Gowensville Community Center 14186 Highway 11, Campobello
Tryon Halloween Stroll & Costume Contest
Oct. 31, 4-7pm N. Trade St., Downtown Tryon
FOOTHILLS DISCOVERIES
Compiled and Photographed by Mark Levin
Each month, you’ll be introduced to something in our area worth exploring. Some of these will be familiar, but perhaps you’ve never been or haven’t been in years. And others might be things you have never heard of or thought to visit. All of these will be family-friendly and either free or inexpensive. Get out there!
VAUGHN CREEK GREENWAY – A TRYON TREASURE
Here’s a hike your whole family can enjoy. Vaughn Creek Greenway is just a couple of miles out of Tryon, off New Market Road. The trail is mostly flat in-and-out, eight-tenths of a mile each way. The 1.6-mile trek will take families under an hour to hike, but slow down and enjoy the greenway. There are several benches where you can sit, rest, and enjoy Vaughn Creek.
One of the highlights is Siller’s Falls. It is small compared to other waterfalls, but moving water is always a treasure. Across the creek from Siller’s Falls is a covered picnic shelter with a separate side trail to get a closer look at the falls. The trail ends at a culvert built in 1943. This is where the railroad once passed over the creek, and one day, it hopes to be part of the Saluda Grade Rail Trail.
DIRECTIONS & PARKING:
The AllTrails app lists the address as 814-904 New Market Road, Tryon. There is not a lot of parking. PolkTrails.org suggests parking in the large field 300 feet away. Just be mindful of traffic and hang onto your kids and pets. There are a couple of parking spots next to the picnic shelter.
Entrance sign.
The trail through the forest follows Vaughn Creek.
Siller’s Falls might not be the tallest waterfall in the area, but it’s worthy of a stop to relax and enjoy.
This historical marker interprets a “trail marker tree” which was used by Native Americans to point the way to other landmarks. The tree that the signs references was victim to internal core rot and finally fell.
is what’s
The culvert is the end of the trail. It was built in 1943.
David and Robin Edgar along with Bonnie are more than just casual hikers on the trail, they’re official “stewards” of the Vaughn Creek Greenway and have been for many years.
Benches for resting and absorbing nature are located along the trail.
This
left of the trail marker tree.
Vaughn Creek
Sarah Reamy & Archie drove up from Greer to enjoy walking the Vaughn Creek Greenway. Archie loves to meet other dogs along the trail.
Poinsett Bridge
The History and Haunting of a Local Landmark
Some visitors to Greenville County’s Poinsett Bridge say they have seen and heard the ghost of a headless man, screams echoing through the woods, and mysterious lights. The bridge’s remote location in the mountains near the North Saluda Reservoir only adds to its eerie aura.
“People have reported unexplained car trouble when they’re trying to leave the area so there’s lots of different kinds of stories,” says Shanna Raines, the
Information Services Manager at the Greenville County Library System, which has documented the bridge’s history.
Historians say the Poinsett Bridge is the oldest bridge in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the Southeast. Its origins go back to the late 1700s and early 1800s and a desire by state leaders to improve commerce between eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina and the city of Columbia and the port of
Charleston to the south.
“The early roads were very narrow. It was really difficult for moving livestock over long distances so there was a need for better mountain roads to get the goods and things they were carrying on their wagons to the market,” says Raines.
State leaders wanted a road wide enough to accommodate those freight wagons and bridges were needed to traverse streams, so they began construction on what was known as the Saluda
Story and photography by Clay Johnson
Old road crossing Poinsett Bridge
Poinsett Bridge Historical Marker
Mountain Road.
“There were actually three bridges constructed in 1820 as part of this state road project, but only the Poinsett Bridge remains today,” says Raines.
Historians believe Robert Mills designed the bridge. Mills, who was born in Charleston, was an American architect and cartographer best known for designing the first Washington Monument in Baltimore, Maryland, and the better known one in Washington, D.C., as well as the US Treasury Building. Some historians believe Mills was the first native-born American to be professionally trained as an architect.
In 1820, Mills was appointed acting commissioner of South Carolina’s Board of Public Works. He designed many public buildings across the state, including a courthouse in Greenville with gothic windows like the archway of the Poinsett Bridge.
The bridge is named for Joel Poinsett, another Charleston native who served in the South Carolina legislature and US House of Representatives and was president of South Carolina’s Board of Public Works around the time the bridge was built. Poinsett served as the first US ambassador to Mexico and is the namesake of the Poinsettia, a native
that
introduced to the United States and that remains a popular holiday decoration.
In the 1830s, the road and the bridges became a stagecoach route carrying passengers.
“In the years before the Civil War there were low-country planters that used this road and bridge with their families who were headed to the mountains. They were trying to get away from the heat during the summer,” says Raines.
People traveling the road had to pay a toll.
“Then as other roads were developed there was a decline in use of this
Poinsett Bridge
Mexican flower
Poinsett
particular road and some say it may have just been travelers who wanted to avoid the toll,” says Raines.
Raines says the bridge was used until 1955, but the road was realigned so the bridge was no longer needed. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Two centuries of history have fueled haunting stories that surround the bridge like a creeping kudzu vine.
During the bridge’s construction many workers fell ill with what historians believe to have been malaria. There’s a legend that the body of a worker who became sick and died is buried within the bridge. There’s a story that the Irish masons who helped build the bridge return at night to admire their work. Another local legend claims the headless body of a man who was shot on the bridge in 1861 returns on nights when
FRVNT Films shooting at Poinsett Bridge
FRVNT Films shooting at Poinsett Bridge
it rains, exactly at the stroke of midnight.
Visitors have reported ghostly encounters that defy explanation. Some visiting at night have reported hearing screams coming out from under the bridge and odd sights like orbs and floating lights. Raines points out that the county discourages people from visiting the bridge after dark.
Over the years the tales of ghostly encounters around Poinsett Bridge have drawn several paranormal investigators to the area and in 2019 the bridge was named one of the 30 most haunted places in America by Condé Nast Traveler magazine.
Despite the scary stories Poinsett Bridge draws locals and tourists alike to its beautiful scenery and fascinating history. Its stonework and distinctive Gothic arch with a lush,
Poinsett Bridge’s gothic arch
AUTUMN GLORY
A view of the arch from other side
forested backdrop make the bridge subject matter for local artists and a backdrop for local photographers.
“I actually had some maternity photos taken there,” says Raines. “For me, it’s just a nice peaceful place. I love the history of it.
Others probably go there for that as well.”
It’s also a setting for local filmmakers. Greenville’s FRVNT Films recently used the bridge as a backdrop for a music video and part of a documentary that tells the story of co-founder Brandon
The Poinsett Bridge crosses Callahan Branch
Hart’s recovery from a serious illness eight years ago.
“We chose this location because it seems reminiscent of a period in the long renaissance I went through,” says Hart, a musician and producer.
In 2000, the Greenville County Council formed a committee to work on preserving Poinsett Bridge, and a few years later, the South Carolina Heritage Trust took over that responsibility. The trust acquired 120 acres around the bridge to create the Poinsett Bridge Heritage Preserve and in June 2024, added another 280 acres. There are plans to add hiking trails and improve accessibility, parking and signage.
The bridge is now owned by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and maintained by Greenville County Parks Recreation and Tourism. The county is conducting an engineering assessment to determine the best ways of preserving the bridge, which has suffered some natural deterioration from weather and occasional vandalism. The study will help ensure the bridge’s longevity, along with all its spooky stories.
Glenn, sounding sweet
The Uniting Power of Film
Tryon International Film Festival’s 10th Anniversary
Cinema has the power to bring people together. It does not segregate by genre, country of origin, or language. This art form is one that people of every race and culture can appreciate because, in essence, cinema reflects the human experience. No matter where a person comes from, he or she can be immersed in a film that reaches into the depths of what it means to be alive.
The organizers of the Tryon International Film Festival (TRIFF) have taken the potential of the cinema to heart and, in turn, to their community. In 2014, the Polk County Film Initiative (PCFI) was born—a program meant to encourage cinematic production in the Foothills. Out of that initiative came the Tryon International Film Festival, an annual event that attracts filmmakers from
across the globe. In anticipation of the 10th annual film festival taking place Thursday, October 10th through Sunday, October 13th, the members of the PCFI Board share what makes this festival so special to their little corner of the world.
Beau Menetre, co-founder of TRIFF, states that the original purpose for creating the festival was two-fold.
“A lot of it was based on
2023 TRIFF award with various fliers
Story by Emily Williams
Photos courtesy of Carri Bass
the development of an economic impact because of what tourism brings to a community with restaurants and retailers,” he says. “It was originally an economic project that creatively morphed into a film festival, which brings filmmakers to represent their projects that we’ll screen here.”
The festival that came as a product of the PCFI’s desire to positively impact the community has only grown over the years.
The 10th annual event promises to hold even more excitement this year, with
four days packed with film screenings, awards, galas, networking opportunities, and educational workshops. This year will be the first year the event will host a special opening night reception and film screening. The Board anticipates having the usual 500 to 800 attendees throughout the course of the multi-day event, but they hope to reach the 1,000-person mark, considering this year is a momentous occasion.
Over the weekend, the festival will screen 75 films ranging from podcasts to
shorts to full-length dramatic features and documentaries.
The PCFI Board receives twothirds of the films they select each year via a program called FilmFreeway, which allows independent filmmakers to submit their projects to various film festivals throughout the world. The rest of the films are ones the Board solicits themselves because they have either been made by a colleague or have been popular within the film festival circuit.
“For this year, we have filmmakers from Nepal, Sweden, the UK, Canada,
Italy, and all four corners of the US—so they come far and wide,” shares Menetre. Likewise, the judges for the film entries are also from various states and countries, bringing a wide range of perspectives as they select winners for the awards.
This year, the judges will decide winning films based on a number of new and returning film categories. TRIFF not only awards typical features and shorts but also has categories for human rights and dignity films, environmental awareness projects, animation, and
Founders of PCFI Kirk Gollwitzer, Lavin Cuddihee, and Beau Menetre
podcasts. In honor of Tryon being a proud equestrian community, the festival even has an equestrian category and will be screening films with this theme throughout Saturday at Sunnydale.
The festival has also officially selected two awardwinning indie films to be the opening features for Thursday and Friday nights. The film for Thursday is A Song for Imogene by Honey Head Films in Wilmington, NC. Menetre states, “[Honey Head Films] have been an integral part of our festival for the past couple of years, so we’re going to screen their first feature.” The opening film for Friday is Just Like Me, a Swedish film that Menetre and his team are thrilled to showcase at Friday night’s gala reception.
TRIFF also has many films that will be making their debut at this year’s event, one
being a thriller called Are You There?, which was filmed at Tryon’s own GreenLife Inn at The Mimosa. “We have a lot of films that have premiered here, which is the start of a film festival circuit for many people,” claims Menetre.
“We’ve made some incredible friends over the years, even if they have not come back.”
One of those friends is renowned actor Matthew Modine, who came to Tryon for the premier of his film Foster Boy in 2019. Carri Bass, TRIFF photographer and vice president of PCFI, shares that Modine fell in love with the film festival and is partially responsible for the creation of the environmental awareness film category.
Modine even encouraged Menetre and a small team to take the film to Switzerland for a second premiere in 2020.
Audience watching a film at the 2023 film festival
Connecting with other people, other countries, and other filmmakers to support the cinematic arts is a passion project that the PCFI has even taken to their own backyard.
Debra Torrence, the PCFI director, believes an answer to help aspiring filmmakers in this region is to align the Carolinas in the same mission to support local filmmakers so they can develop films here.
Gail Awan, a board member and the president of the Urban League of the Upstate, has the same vision, which is why the League is partnering with TRIFF this year.
“We want to support existing and aspiring filmmakers,” states Awan. “The best way to do that is for them to see high-quality films that are shown here.”
Supporting aspiring filmmakers in the Foothills and in the Upstate is a top priority for PCFI, which is why education is a major part
Student learning about filmmaking at Media Arts Day
of the film festival. Ashley Crane, the TRIFF Education Director, has a full lineup of educational opportunities prepared for middle, high school, and college students. Friday’s activities will start off with Media Arts Day, which is a career fair for any students looking to work in the film industry. After that, TRIFF will host a screening and award competition of student short films, and the educational opportunities for the day will be rounded out by a Production Assistant academy course taught by Linda Burns of the Atlanta Film Society. Saturday and Sunday will also boast a variety of workshops on a wide array of topics in the film industry, from screenwriting to directing. All these events are free of charge thanks to the wonderful sponsors of TRIFF, and registration for the activities can be found on the festival’s website.
Director of Education Ashley Crane with TRIFF judges
In the future, Menetre hopes that TRIFF can have a year-round institute to teach students about the cinematic arts. Presently, Ashley Crane is working with the media programs at local schools and universities to provide students with more opportunities. Other Tryon organizations are also partnering with PCFI to provide education of the media arts so they can inspire and encourage future filmmakers. Will Barclift, Director of the Tryon Arts & Crafts School, shares that the school is starting to build a digital media lab, which will open new doors for so many children. “We’re building the next generation of filmmakers,” states Torrence, “and it takes a village to build all those pathways for the kids.”
Ultimately, the Tryon International Film Festival
Steven Esteb leading a student workshop
has an undeniable purpose of serving the community in every way it can and making the Foothills feel a little more like home to all who visit. Torrence and Menetre share that a top priority is to work alongside local shops and vendors, supporting those businesses while receiving materials necessary to produce the festival. TRIFF has also indirectly led to the opening of new businesses, such as the Mirrorball Gallery in Tryon. Tom Trobaugh, president of PCFI, shares that the owner of the gallery moved to Tryon because of his positive experience at the film festival a year prior.
Menetre says that many people have had the same experience; even if they do not move to Tryon, they return year after year to enjoy the beauty of the town and revisit connections formed through the festival.
“For the last ten years, that’s probably been the most rewarding thing—just watching networks grow and people meeting each other,” he says.
There are so many beautiful things to admire about the mission of TRIFF—of how it connects artists from all nations and of all ages by bringing them to one of the most charming towns in the
Southeast and providing the opportunity to let their creative lights shine. Without a doubt, this film festival is truly special, and it can only get better from here.
“We’re really just getting started,” claims Menetre. “The next ten years are going to be the most exciting now that we’ve laid the foundation.”
If you would like to buy tickets for any of the exciting events taking place at the 10th annual Tryon International Film Festival, or if you are interested in sponsoring or donating to the festival, please visit https://www. tryoninternationalfilmfestival.org/.
Students attending Media Arts Day
Embracing a Second Wind
Pictured left to right are inductee Greg Miner, board member Liz Norstrom, Pam Torlina of Conserving Carolina and inductee Don Dicey.
Second Wind Hall of Fame Celebrates Community Champions
Story by Storme Smith
Photos courtesy of Second Wind Hall of Fame
Now and then, we all deserve a pat on the back, especially those who volunteer their time and energy to support local charities and community organizations, and that’s where
the Second Wind Hall of Fame comes into the picture.
As we go about our daily lives, we often encounter these individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to help others. These unsung
heroes deserve recognition and appreciation for their invaluable contributions.
Second Wind Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring outstanding volunteers and retirees who continue to
Left to right: Marianne Carruth, Tim Brannon, Lucy Brannon, and Nancy Holland
embody a life of service well into their golden years.
In the early 1970s, the Second Wind Hall of Fame was established by Phillip J. Kelley, a renowned author, to celebrate retirees over sixty who have embraced a ‘second wind’ in their lives. This ‘second wind’ refers to their commitment to community service post-retirement, setting them apart as exceptional individuals who continue to make a meaningful impact.
Over the years, numerous local chapters were formed across the United States to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable efforts
Inductees Peter Franklin, Ann Franklin and Peggy Franklin with President Carol Browning.
of these retirees who channeled their talents and energy into benefiting their respective communities.
The Tryon Chapter, established in 1978, has a rich history and remains as the sole remaining chapter of the Second Wind Hall of Fame. Despite the national organization being dissolved in 2005, the Tryon Chapter remains steadfast in recognizing individuals for their exceptional service. The Tryon chapter’s enduring legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of those who continually give back, making us all proud to be part of this connected community.
“Since 2018, we have inducted 31 new
Skip Crowe recently was inducted into the Second Wind Hall of Fame.
members into the Second Wind Hall of Fame,” says President Carol Browning. “By the same token, we have lost a few, so we always need to add. I know there are a lot of people that qualify for the Second Wind, we just need to get them nominated. And while the board is always looking for new members, we are always glad to get nominations from the community and the organizations.”
The Second Wind Hall of Fame not only recognizes individuals but also offers the ‘Catch a Second Wind Scholarship’ to non-traditional students pursuing their educational and professional
development goals. This scholarship, a beacon of hope for individuals in the workforce within the foothills community, has already made a significant impact. It has provided opportunities to pursue academic aspirations and contribute to the betterment of society.
Jennifer Pittman of Columbus was the proud
recipient of the ‘Catch a Second Wind’ scholarship for 2024. This scholarship recognized her exceptional personal qualities, as it supports individuals who strive to positively impact their communities through dedication and hard work. Pittman’s passion for special education and commitment to the Polk
Liz Norstrom gives John Vining his plaque when he was inducted earlier this year.
County school system exemplify the values celebrated by the Second Wind Hall of Fame. Her aspirations to pursue a graduate certificate in special education as a behavioral specialist highlight her dedication to enhancing the lives of the children she works with.
“I really appreciate this scholarship,” said Pittman. “Ever since I came to Polk County, I’ve been working with children, and I started off working as an intern at Steps of Hope working with Ruth Richardson, who taught me so much. This scholarship paid for my classes
Gregory Wright, left, and Carol Browning
Cam Lawrence was inducted at a Kiwanis meeting.
Anne Foster Day receives her plaque after induction into the Second Wind Hall of Fame.
and books for the semester, and everything I get from this, I’m taking it back to Polk County Schools.”
The Second Wind Hall of Fame also recently held an annual
luncheon, which had been on hiatus since 2018. This year’s luncheon took place at Holy Cross Episcopal Church and featured a talk by local lawyer and historian Andy Haynes.
“The luncheon is something we do as a way for all of us to get together because we don’t have regular formal meetings and don’t do anything extraordinary,” Browning
Browning
inducts Donnie Carruth into SWHF
adds. “It’s simply to recognize our members and say thank you.”
The Second Wind Hall of Fame is a testament to the unwavering dedication and commitment of individuals who embody the spirit of service and selflessness. From retirees embracing a ‘second wind’ to passionate individuals pursuing educational and professional growth, the organization is a cornerstone of recognition and appreciation for those striving to improve the world.
Carol Browning inducts Wanda May at a recent Town of Tryon Commissioners Meeting.
The Long Way Home
By Pebbles
Try as we may, it is not always easy to see the path of our destiny. How I did not become a world-renowned show legend is a mystery to me! I have stellar conformation, striking good looks, and lovely movement. I am special. Possibly an Olympic contender if only I had been born to be a 16.3hand horse and not a 12-hand pony. But who is counting?
A hand is only 4 inches, after all. Our equine careers are most often determined
by our family history and calculated breeding, more so than sheer spirit and willful determination. Sometimes, finding our perfect home does not come easily, even for the equines with top-notch breeding. The journey from start to finish can be a long way home.
Now for a moment, let us turn our attention to a fancy young thoroughbred mare, Hillbilly Kitty. Bred and born at Calumet Farm in Kentucky, Kitty has all the right pedigree.
Her lineage includes the impressive English Channel. Her sire, Big Blue Kitten, won just shy of three million dollars in his racing career.
Kitty is a blueblood of the racing world. Her ancestors include Riva Ridge, Northern Dancer, Native Dancer, and Mr. Prospector twice. On her dame’s side is the stallion, English Channel, an American champion Thoroughbred racehorse. In four years of racing, he competed in 23 races, winning 13, finishing
Hillbilly Kitty in training with Shingle Hollow Farm.
Hillbilly Kitty arriving from the kill lot in Tennessee.
second in four, and finishing third in one. He retired to stud for the 2008 season at Hurricane Hall near Lexington for an initial fee of $25,000 per live foal. His first crop, foaled in 2009, included 14 stakes winners.
Kitty was sold at the famous Keeneland auction as a yearling. How she ended up in a kill pen in Tennessee a year later is anyone’s guess. My mistress saw her and said we had to save her life, not knowing her impressive heritage. This mare was a descendant of a leading sire of turf horses in North America. Instead, we took pity on her. She was covered in bite marks but had kind eyes, a delicate head, and lovely long legs. Despite her dire situation, she showed grace in this downtrodden place. She was in a holding pen
with older lame horses and an untouchable donkey, a princess among paupers.
We saved Kitty. With some research and a veterinary scan of her microchip, we soon discovered we had a horse of amazing pedigree. She was sound and had never been raced. Her new life with us looked promising.
In our rescue, Helping Equines Regain Dignity (HERD), we waited until Kitty was three years old to start her riding career. We had her backed by a professional in North Carolina. Kitty did not find a match for a home in the area. Why not? We do not fully understand. She headed north to a generous and caring foster trainer, Julien Beaugnon, in Great Falls, Virginia. He had trained horses in Europe for the discipline of
Hillbilly Kitty while staying in Virginia.
dressage. Julien also trained equines for the famous equine performances at Cavalia. This world-touring show combines acrobatics, dance, aerial stunts, and live music with horses. Julien can achieve the impossible with horses; he speaks their language.
Kitty was with Julien for over a year. He taught her about liberty groundwork and strengthening movements for her future dressage development. Kitty focused on Julien’s body movements for guidance on what to do next. The choreographic instruction for a student intensely following a dance lesson comes to mind.
I have mastered all kinds of artful dance movements myself. Mainly those that involve avoiding capture to stand for the farrier. Kitty is far more gracious. She learned how to bow to her
audience on command. Julien’s family loved this young mare. He considered adopting her. But alas, fate had different plans.
Julien had to make a major geographical move for a new training position leaving Kitty behind She spent six months with another HERD member in Maryland and then moved to a foster situation in Virginia at a gorgeous farm. Here she was a well-caredfor pasture ornament. Lazy days, good care, and lush grass put weight on Kitty. She matured into an even more beautiful mare.
In April 2024, Kitty returned to the Carolinas for training with Sugar Hills Farms. The Joyner family in Chesnee, SC, had helped HERD find good homes for Clancy, Tinker Bell, and Grace. We had high hopes they could help Kitty find her match. Their
Hillbilly Kitty growing up to be a beauty at the HERD ranch.
family is talented. Horses relate well to their kind energy. Kitty proved to be no exception. Within a month, Kitty was out blazing trails with the Joyner family, effortlessly crossing creeks and bridges. The only thing this lovely horse was not fond of was Joyner’s pet pig. She was petrified of the strange creature that lurked near the riding ring during training sessions. It took all summer for the right family to find Kitty. They drove from Aiken to the Upstate on a Sunday afternoon with a horse trailer in tow. They had been searching specifically for a young thoroughbred mare, with athletic ability that both an adult and a child could enjoy. The goal was to have the horse mature with their daughter as a
Hillbilly Kitty performing while at Sugar Hills Farm in training.
great partner for life, with some local horse shows and trail riding in the mix. Since she was a yearling, Hillbilly Kitty had been moved multiple times. The right fit had eluded her. She left a life of royalty in Kentucky to end up in a livestock auction in Tennessee, found safety in North Carolina, and received exceptional care and training in Virginia. She waited patiently with a kind foster in a holding pattern for months in Maryland. Yes, our poor Kitty had played musical chairs. Each time the music stopped, we scrambled for a new soft landing for Kitty, no fault of her own. Finally, it appears that Kitty has found her place in South Carolina, where she is loved by an equestrian family of riders who see her value, too. It was a long way home.
YEAR-ROUND DINING
Hillbilly Kitty in her new home in Aiken, SC
QUICK BITES
SPICE MEALS UP WITH CURRY
The word ÒcurryÓ is used to describe a variety of things. First it is a mix of spices that often combines coriander seeds, turmeric, cumin, chili peppers, fenugreek, clove, mustard, and even nutmeg or ginger. This produces a warm and robust spicy taste that can flavor various foods. Curry also is used to describe a specific dish. Curry is a recipe made with a sauce or gravy seasoned with spices (like those in a curry mix) and is traditionally associated with south Asian cuisine. Curry also is a type of tree, and curry leaves are reminiscent of lemongrass and anise. These leaves often are included in Indian cooking.
Curry can make a hearty, delicious lunch or dinner, and it is ideal when the weather starts to get chilly. This recipe for ÒCoconut Chicken Curry,Ó courtesy of ÒClueless in the Kitchen: Cooking for BeginnersÓ (Firefly Books) by Evelyn Raab, is creamy and easy to prepare.
COCONUT CHICKEN CURRY
Serves 4 to 6
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons curry powder (hot or mild)
• 2 medium sweet peppers (any color), cut into 1/2-inch squares
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 fresh jalape–o (or other) hot pepper, seeded and sliced (optional)
• 1 14-ounce can coconut milk, regular or light
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes (or diced fresh tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
DIRECTIONS
• In a bowl, toss the chicken chunks with the salt and pepper. Set aside. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Sprinkle in the curry powder and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, or until
combined. Add the onion, garlic and jalape–o pepper (if youÕre using it), and continue to cook, stirring to coat with the spices, for 3 or 4 minutes, or until the onions are beginning to soften. Dump in the chicken chunks, raise the heat to medium high, and cook, stirring often, until the chicken has turned mostly opaque.
• Add the coconut milk, tomatoes and sugar to the pan, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium, and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with plain basmati or jasmine rice. PC24A357
SWEETEN UP HALLOWEEN PARTIES
Everybody knows that Halloween dishes up sweets galore. Trickor-treaters come home with bounties of chocolate bars, candy, gum, licorice, and much more inside of their bags and buckets. Even though trick-or-treat treasures are the stars of the show, when hosting Halloween parties, desserts also can be top notch, and guests often look forward to chocolate treats on the dessert table. This year, Halloween hosts can serve up a slice of ÒChocolate Fudge PieÓ from ÒReal Simple: Dinner Tonight Done!Ó (Time Home Entertainment) from the editors of Real Simple.
CHOCOLATE FUDGE PIE
Serves 8
INGREDIENTS
• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade), fitted into a 9-inch pie plate
• 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped, plus more shaved, for topping
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 11/2 cups heavy cream
DIRECTIONS
• Heat oven to 375 F. Place the pie plate on a baking sheet. Prick the crust with a fork and line with foil. Fill to the top with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until the edges are firm, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the foil and weights and bake until just golden, 8 to 10 minutes
more. Reduce oven temperature to 325 F.
• Meanwhile, in a large heatproof bowl set over (not in) a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter, stirring often, until smooth; set aside.
• Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs, salt, and 1/2 cup of the sugar on medium-high speed until fluffy, 4 to 5 minutes. Fold one-third of the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture, then fold in the remainder.
• Pour the mixture into the crust and bake until puffed and beginning to crack, 20 to 25 minutes. Cook for 1 hour, then chill until firm, at least 2 hours. Beat the cream with the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar on medium high-speed until soft peaks form. Spread over the pie and sprinkle with the shaved chocolate.
UP YOUR TACO ANTE WITH HOMEMADE TORTILLAS
Tacos are a beloved comfort food. While the true origins of tacos are unknown, they are believed to have originated in Mexico long before the Spanish arrived. Ancient Mexicans made soft, flat corn tortillas and filled them with various ingredients, including cooked organ meats and fish.
The process of assembling and devouring a taco is relatively simple, but there are ways to improve the flavor profile of this delicious dish. Certainly you can purchase any number of tortillas from a local supermarket, but for a truly great taco, think about homemade tortillas. Here is a recipe for Tortillas de Ma’z, courtesy of King Arthur Baking.
TORTILLAS DE MA’Z
Yields 16 5-inch tacos
INGREDIENTS
• 21/2 cups (231 grams) King Arthur Organic Masa Harina
• Pinch salt
• 12/3 ups warm water, about 100 F
DIRECTIONS
• To make the dough: Weigh your masa harina; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. In a large, shallow mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with your hands to make a cohesive dough.
• Using your hands, mix and knead the dough in the bowl for a minute or so until it is smooth and somewhat firm; it should feel like Play-Doh. If the dough sticks to your hands and feels wet, add more masa harina a teaspoon at a time. If you roll a
piece into a ball and squeeze it and the edges crack, add more water a teaspoon to a tablespoon at a time.
• To shape the tortillas: Preheat a comal, a cast iron or nonstick pan, or a griddle over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until evenly hot.
• Cut two round or square pieces of food-safe plastic Ñ from a plastic produce or zip-top bag Ñ to a size about 1/2-inch larger than the diameter of your tortilla press. Set aside.
• Divide the dough into 16 pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a clean work surface and cover them with plastic or a damp kitchen towel to keep them moist.
• Working with one ball of dough at a time, sandwich it in the center of two pieces of plastic. Place the plastic-enclosed dough on the bottom plate of a tortilla press. Gently squeeze the handle of the press
until the dough is about 1/16- to 1/8-inch thick and about 5 inches in diameter. To achieve a nicely round tortilla, jiggle the handle of your press just as you near the bottom. You may need to press it a couple of times to get the desired thinness.
• To cook tortillas: Peel the top piece of plastic and then the bottom piece away from the tortilla. Quickly but gently lay the tortilla on the hot pan. DonÕt worry if it isnÕt perfectly flat (youÕll get better as you practice), and donÕt try to move it, which will cause it to tear.
• Cook the tortilla until it releases easily from the pan and its color has lightened and become opaque, 30 to 45 seconds; you donÕt want the tortilla to brown or become freckled at this point.
• Using a spatula or your fingers, flip the tortilla and cook it until the bottom edges start to brown and some freckles appear, 60 to 90 seconds more.
• Flip the tortilla one more time and cook until it puffs, 10 to 15 seconds. If the tortilla doesnÕt puff on its own, gently poke it a few times near the center. Once it puffs, let the tortilla cook for 15 to 20 seconds longer, until full set and soft.
• Remove the tortilla from the heat and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel, or transfer it to a cloth-lined tortillero.
• Repeat the pressing and cooking process with the remaining dough.
• Storage information: Enjoy the tortillas the same day by keeping them wrapped in a kitchen towel or tortillero. Refrigerate leftover tortillas, wrapped in a kitchen towel and sealed in a plastic bag, for to three days, or freeze for two to three months.
• To reheat tortillas: Preheat a comal, pan or griddle for 5 minutes over medium heat and warm the tortillas for about a minute on each side.
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