Life in Our Foothills May 2019

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

LIFE IN OUR

FOOTHILLS MAY 2019

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS Providing unforgettable outdoors experiences for Kids

MAY 2019

UNSUNG HEROES HANGING UP THE The “Old Timers” of the Foothills PAINT BRUSH Humane Society $4.95

It’s time to create a new picture

SAVING A TEDDY BEAR

A HERD comes to the rescue MAY 2019 1 MAY 2019 1

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WELCOME LIFE IN OUR

MARCH 2019

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his week is Spring Break in our area. As my kids have stayed up later than my wife and I each night and have slept in late the next day (my daughter had to be woken up at 12:30 p.m. one day). It reminds me of how great it was to hardly have a care in the world. If we could only go back and be a kid again. In this issue, we have a couple features that take you back, if only for a little while.

After 34 years of painting and coloring, Mrs Clara Rogers is laying down her paintbrush as art teacher at Tryon Elementary. Many of you were taught by Mrs Rogers, and your kid as well!

Up in the valley, there is a camp for kids 11 to 16 years old so good, the kids will forget they ever had a cell phone. What’s so great about The Adventure School? You’ll have to read about it to find out.

Everyone knows about the Foothills Humane Society. The incredible no-kill organization in Polk County that finds homes for all the dogs and cats that come through their door. But, who feeds them? Takes them for a walk? Plays with them? Courage is about the unsung hero’s at the FHS that help these animals find a home.

We’re excited to share with you features that will grab your heart, maybe have you think back to when you were a kid.

There are more things about this area than we can possibly cover in one issue, but we will try! We hope you enjoy this months issue!

General Manager Kevin Powell Marketing Magan Etheridge Trish Boyter Pagination Jamie Dawkins Distribution Jeff Allison Jamie Lewis Alex Greene Contributors Heather Freeman Mark Levin Vincent Verrecchio

Kevin Powell, General Manager kevin.powell@tryondailybulletin.com Life in Our Foothills is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Life in Our Foothills is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Tryon Newsmedia LLC. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Please address all correspondence (including, but not limited to, letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to Editor, Life in Our Foothills, 16. N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782, or email to ted.yoakum@tryondailybulletin. com. Life in Our Foothills is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and upstate South Carolina, and online at TryonDailyBulletin.com. Subscriptions are available for $30 per year by calling 828-8599151. To advertise, call 828-859-9151.

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CONTENTS

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Foothills Featured

Providing Homegrown Outdoors Experiences for Kids

Instilling an Appreciation of the Arts at Tryon Elementary School for 34 Years

St. Patty’s Day Street Party

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Super Saturday

The “Old Timers” of the Foothills Humane Society

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Social Life

May calendar of events

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TFAC Anniversary

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FENCE 35th Gala

Mike Carruth & The Adventure School

Quiet Courage

Clara Rogers

Saving a teddy bear Quick Bites

Encourage Healthy Eating Habits in Kids

ON THE COVER: For the past twenty years, Mike Carruth and The Adventure School have been taking area students into the wilderness to enjoy nature, free from television and electronics. Story on page 24. Photo by Mike Carruth.

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Marketplace 56

Why I Love the Foothills

Aaron Greene, Polk County Schools Superintendent

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Parting Glance

Flyin’ the friendly skies

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Advertisers Index MAY 2019

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SOCIAL LIFE Spring Hiking Series to the Green River Preserve

Needle Felting Class

Sunset Series featuring The Silver Travis Band

Thursday, May 2

6:30 p.m.

Sunset Series featuring The Silver Travis Band Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

Friday, May 3

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Needle Felting Class Irene Heckel returns to teach the tips and tricks of your next needle felting project 3381 Hunting Country Rd, Tryon www.fence.org

Tuesday, May 7

8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Spring Hiking Series to the Green River Preserve Sponsored by Conserving Carolina (PAC) Easy 2 mile trail type-lollipop www.conservingcarolina.org

7:00 p.m.

Destinations Film Series “Tootsie” Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

Saturday, May 4

Thursday, May 9

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mommy & Me: Mosaic Stepping Stone Workshop 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon, www.tryonartsandcrafts.org 12

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6:30 p.m.

Sunset Series featuring HotPoint Trio Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

Ceramic Planter – Coffee and Craft Workshop

Friday, May 10

6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Sitcom Acting – Wine and Craft Workshop 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon, www.tryonartsandcrafts.org

Saturday, May 11

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Ceramic Planter – Coffee and Craft Workshop 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon, www.tryonartsandcrafts.org

Thursday, May 16

6:30 p.m.

Sunset Series featuring Lecretia & ThunderRoad Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

SOCIAL LIFE

Pottery Face Mug Party

Friday, May 17

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Nature Walks at Walnut Creek Preserve Sponsored by Conserving Carolina (PAC) Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center a t Walnut Creek Preserve Moderately difficult 3-mile hike through the preserve www.conservingcarolina.org

Saturday, May 18

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Pottery Face Mug Party 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon, www.tryonartsandcrafts.org

Saturday, May 18

10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Speaker Series: Native American Rock Carvings of the Carolina Mountains Sponsored by Conserving Carolina (PAC) 14

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Nature Walks at Walnut Creek Preserve

Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center at Walnut Creek Preserve Archaeologist Dennis Chastain speaks about ancient Native American rock carvings found in our area. www.conservingcarolina.org

Tuesday, May 21

3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Kida Nature Club Families bring their kids to explore the trails at FENCE 3381 Hunting Country Rd, Tryon www.fence.org

Thursday, May 23

6:30 p.m.

Sunset Series featuring Noah Proudfoot & the Botanicals Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

Saturday, May 25

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“The Style of no Style” Opening Reception Tryon Painters & Sculptors, 78 N Trade St, Tryon www.tryonpaintersandsculptors.com

Summer Tracks Concert Series

Thursday, May 30

6:30 p.m.

Sunset Series featuring Shawn Hopper & J. Klein Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon www.tryonarts.org

Friday, May 31

7:00 p.m.

Summer Tracks Concert Series Rogers Park, 55 W Howard St, Tryon www.summertracks.com

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FOOTHILLS FEATURED 1

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ST. PATTY’S DAY STREET PARTY

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Photos by Samuel Robinson Downtown Landrum was the place to be for this first time event in mid-March. The event featured multiple events over throughout the day including best-dressed pooch and most dapper Irish Derby as well as a Music on Main performance.

1. Rock N Roll Reunion Horz 2. Cherokee in The Kissing Booth 3. Brannon Poore 4. Melissa Auen & Bear 5. Sandy Crockett 6. Best Dressed Contestants 7. Brushes & Burgundy 8. Mahaffey Family 9. Street View St Patty’s day 10. Melinda Watkins, John Petty Tammy Carruth

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SUPER SATURDAY

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Photos by Michelle Fleming Children young and old came out to the Super Saturday Children’s Festival in Tryon. This 41st Annual event has become a spring time tradition for years and years.

1. Jenny & Kennedy 2. Caroline Taylor & Maggie Johnson 3. Mark Schweizer & Penny 4. Delaney, Madi, Juniper, Lucas 5. Sawyer 6. Inara & Delaney 7. Super Star Stilts’ unicorn leads the parade 8. Jack, Ellie, Luna with Carolyn & Michael Baughman 9. Jakeece, Paris, Terrica, Kiayla Mom Chakya Wilkins 10. Crowd watching parade 11. Soul Street dance volunteers

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FOOTHILLS FEATURED 1

TFAC 50TH ANNIVERSARY EVENING

Photos by Michelle Fleming Tryon Fine Arts Center celebrates 50 years of bringing music, theater, visual arts and more to the community. In honor of the first public event on February 12, 1969, TFAC supporters gathered to reminisce and enjoy a toast to TFAC’s future.

Lynn Chalmers & Suez Truitt Brian Holcomb & Joel Perkin Beth Child & Susan Penfold Chris Bartol & Terry Schager Dale Weiler & Loti Woods Drew Bannon & Bob Penfold Marybeth & Jim Trunk Jodi McPherson & Mollie Turner 9. Rita Landrum & Mary Neal Jones 10. Barbara Miles, Kathy & John Toomey 11. Mary & Donnie Carruth 12. Sandra Gass, Shields Flynn, Pat Gass, Frances Flynn 13. Stuart Evans & Becky Barnes

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FOOTHILLS FEATURED 1

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FENCE 35TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

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Photos by Michelle Fleming On April 6, Foothills Equestrian Nature Center held a gala celebration marking their 35th Anniversary. The evening featured dinner, dancing, and entertainment provided by local performers.

1. Sherill Wingo & Bobby McNutt & Mary Neal Jones & Steve McKinsey & Linda Watts & David Pedersen 2. Will Barclift & Samantha Oliver 3. Mary Nice Monroe & Cindy Boyle 4. Lisa & Michael Stokes 5. Jen Gordon & Elizabeth Nager 6. Bob Penfold & Frank Lee 7. Beth & Chuck Rounds 8. Andy & Sharon Millard 9. Aaron Greene 10. Robyn Wells & Lavin Cudihee 11. Becky Collins 12. Inglis & John Sellick 13. Jamie Carpenter and Ross Payne 14. Cathy Brettman & Joe Cooper 22

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FEATURE

MIKE CARRUTH & THE ADVENTURE SCHOOL Providing homegrown outdoors experiences for kids

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t’s a rare person who can pry kids away from their electronics, but Mike Carruth has the cure for what has become an obsession for kids, tweens, teens, and most adults.

Mike’s program, The Adventure School, provides an experience so good that kids don’t miss playing Fortnite for hours on end. They leave their phones and texting at home and they’re good with that. For the past twenty years Mike Carruth has taken area students into the woods and into the wilderness to enjoy natural fun in ways that many have never had the opportunity to experience before.

The Adventure School has evolved over the past twenty years but has stayed true to its

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STORY BY MARK LEVIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK LEVIN AND THE ADVENTURE SCHOOL

values including joy, spirit of adventure, community, acceptance, integrity, stewardship and growth. These principles are constantly on the minds of Mike and the staff as programs are developed and as students enjoy the activities.

He’s always looking for and taking advantage of the teachable moments and in a program like this, they happen all the time.

Adventure Youth Group (AYG) was the first program of The Adventure School and it’s still the heart of what they do. This program is for older 11 to 16 year old students. They meet regularly throughout the fall and spring.

Most of the participants in Adventure Youth Group are homeschooled. AYG is part of their

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educational experience, focusing mainly on leadership and life skills development. They even do community service projects such as cleaning along lake shoreline, streams, and rivers. During the school year there are also “Adventure Days” for younger students homeschooled as well as traditional-schooled. In summer there’s Adventure Camp, a program of The Adventure School.

Campers have the opportunity to participate in day and overnight camps. There’s also a counselor-in-training week and expedition for older students that will include canoeing on Fontana Lake, backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, and whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River.

For someone looking in from the outside, Adventure Camp might seem somewhat un-structured. That is by design. Campers have freedom to pick and choose from a variety of activities and help decide what they want, as long as it is done safely and thoughtfully. This is far removed from the confines of the typical summer camp, which sets up activities much like a school with a bell ringing to move kids in large groups from one activity to the next – day after day. There are no two days the same at Adventure Camp.

With a laugh, Mike remembers hearing from the mom of a young girl from Spartanburg who returned home one day after camp. The mom asked how it was and she gleefully blurted, “Mom, it was so NOT organized!” To Mike, that was the best compliment he could ask for.

He says, “We work very hard to achieve that.”

These campers are outside of their orderly school and home lives where much is planned. They are encouraged to take responsibility for their own experience, to create the day they want to have, and it works! Many students return year after year.

Mike thanks his grandfather for love of the outdoors. He remembers his grandfather, Roy Morris, telling about working and hunting as a boy to put food on the table the family through the years. But the grandfather had no complaints and instilled in Mike a lifelong connection to the outdoors. Mike’s parents were also supportive and very forward thinking about letting kids experience new things. Mike soloed a plane and was certified as a student pilot at 14, before he was old enough to drive. This kind of opportunity and encouragement from his parents Jack and Alma Carruth, led Mike to expand into other areas. He said he would have never learned to rock climb or kayak, if it hadn’t been for his parents saying, “Find what you love and do that.”

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Many of the activities take place at the base camp near Tryon. It’s fitting that The Adventure School facilities match the programs. They’re on a river, have a pond, zip-lines and an activity building course. But they also venture out looking for outdoor experiences close by and farther afield. There have been service trips to Costa Rica and many throughout the Appalachian Mountains and Southeastern US. This never gets old for Mike who has made this a family affair, with an eye to the future.

Daughter Mattie, a fourth-grade teacher and professional guide, helps create programs, work logistics, staffing, and customer relations. Wife Marianne and daughter-in-law Erica help with creating new programs and planning. Mike is

fortunate to have had the program long enough that he has several Adventure Youth Group graduates available to help, especially with Adventure Camps. Some students, Mike says, were so influenced by the positive experience of The Adventure School that they send their own kids now.

Mike has spent a lifetime honing his leadership and outdoor skills. He’s spent decades teaching and leading adults and children through all kinds of outdoor experiences from wilderness skills to team-building exercises.

Mike himself is a graduate Landmark Education and a of a number of Outward Bound programs; he’s a certified Wilderness First Responder, has worked with camps and colleges

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and outdoor centers in a variety of capacities, including building ropes courses. He’s at home and in his element in the woods.

Mike says, “Our objective is to make a positive, lasting, impact on their lives. That’s for every student whether they come for one day or years.”

One of Mike’s favorite things about working with kids is that they will often say something that changes the way he thinks. It’s often a new, uplifting way to look at life. It never gets old. He took his parents’ advice and found something he loves and he’s living it. He has no plans of stopping. It’s who he is.

BUSINESS BASICS For more information, visit: www. theadventureschool.org and The Adventure School Tryon on Facebook. Email: info@theadventureschool. org, or mistermikecarruth@gmail.com, or call or text Mike at 828-817-0454.

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FEATURE

QUIET COURAGE The “Old Timers” of the Foothills Humane Society

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY VINCENT VERRECCHIO

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he 12-pound Shih Tzu mix was found trembling in a roadside ditch. Grass and weed debris were woven into her fur, a dirty white mat so tight that the knees of her hind legs were bound together, her lower spine torqued into an arch, and every movement yanking at her skin. Her eyes were blindfolded under knotted hair sealed with tears. She snapped in terror at even a gentle touch, but still the rescuer drove her to the Foothills Humane Society.

She was named Colby for the record and taken immediately to a veterinarian to be freed from her cocoon.

With freedom, however, came heartbreak. It was not hair holding her hind legs together, but damage to both limbs so severe that she could only stand by bracing one knee against the other. Both eyes were sightless. One was a candidate for removal to prevent further spread of infection. Gums were inflamed with several teeth broken. There was no certainty that she could survive anesthesia and surgery.

Such is the face of cruelty that the “old timers” of the Foothills Humane Society staff have confronted routinely for years.

Relatively few people in the shelter service area know the names of Samantha Austin, Shelter Manager, age 23, a 7.5-year shelter veteran; or Trabert Allen, Kennel Staff 32

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Trabert Allen takes Joker for his turn in an outdoor run.

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When Tatiana calmly ignores the excavation noise, Samantha Austin, Shelter Manager, is reassured that the dog will have a home long before New Digs for Dogs is ready for occupancy.

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We must accept that we cannot save them all or adopt them ourselves. We must embrace the knowledge that our team saves more than we lose.

— Samantha Austin

Coordinator, 33, a 10-year veteran; or the really “old timer” Ashley Pobanz, 28, with 15 years of service. She was a volunteer at 13, an intern from high school at 16, and today, Adoption Coordinator.

In their times, they have touched and cared for almost every strayed, rescued or surrendered dog or cat that have come and gone.

They have stories of sorrow and joy, inspiration and outrage. They have seen the best of people and the worst, the generous and the brutally selfish. They have succeeded repeatedly against seemingly insurmountable odds, but have also suffered loss with quiet courage.

“I can not remember a time without dogs and cats at home when growing up,” says

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Samantha. “In high school, one of the requirements for the National Honors Club was to do volunteer work. I applied as a summer intern to be a kennel attendant. I was a shy 16-year old. It seemed chaotic there and I didn’t know much.”

Samantha got the internship and an early lesson in one of the dangers of the job. “My first assignment was working with a heartworm-positive black and white pit bull that I helped get adopted. She was later found abandoned and cowering under a trailer. What I did next is not considered a successful adoption scenario. I took her home and named her Truffles. She was with me for almost five years before she died. I tried to make those some of

Trabert Allen, one of the “old timers.”

the best times of her life.”

Caretaker roles, such as Samantha’s, are notorious for the emotional burnout of compassion fatigue. She remembers the first time seeing a fighting dog brought in with rotted skin sloughing off from infection. “We tried bandaging him together from the neck down... so much pain. He never offered to defend himself. We must accept that we cannot save them all or adopt them ourselves. We must embrace the knowledge that our team saves more than we lose.”

Trabert tells of how he came to work at the shelter after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. “I had to complete community service hours by cleaning kennels.

I felt so bad for these homeless animals. We got in this very neurotic and hard-to-handle German Shepherd that we named Tyra. She became my special mission and I worked a long time socializing her, bonding with her, until finally I could say goodbye as she went out the door with a family. I knew then, for sure, that 36

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Returned from the vets on neuter/spay day, cats await attention from at least one of the “old timers.”

I wanted to work with animals far more than anything to do with my degree.

“When I was hired full time in 2009, the shelter was euthanizing for space. Soon after, we became a no-kill shelter and had time to rehab. I was hooked. My compassion has not waned even after getting bitten when reaching to break up a dogfight or reaching into a mislabeled carrier that actually held a feral cat.

I am enthused working with our shelter trainers to assess behavior and determine what kind of home would be best suited for a specific dog.”

Ashley remembers her mom bringing her to the shelter to deliver gifts of food for Christmas. “I was probably 8 or so. Maybe younger. I grew up with tons of animals. Mom let me be a volunteer at 13. I loved the shelter cats and dogs and really felt I was personally making a difference.”

Some of Ashley’s responsibilities are routine such as intake processing and posting adoptable animals online. Playing the matchmaker between pets and adopters is always a fresh expe-

Among many responsibilities, “old timer� Ashley Pobanz meets with potential adopters and helps match them with a pet like Stan.

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rience with listening, observation, enthusiasm, occasional tests of patience, and sometimes biting her tongue.

“He was a little old man whose wife had recently died.

His thirty some daughter and two sons, each with a cat carrier, practically pushed him into the lobby. They were not going to allow him to keep his and his wife’s pets. As they began badgering him to get on with it, he started to cry and the cats started to freak out. Such a horrible lack of respect but I kept my temper. We soon re-homed the cats since they were so friendly and obviously well taken care of, but I still get angry remembering those three grown-up brats.

“It’s hard not getting attached to the animals. I really hated when we were a kill shelter and I had to be in a daily meeting to decide who lived or died. I rarely spoke.”

Saying this, Ashley barely holds back tears at the memory.

It is with the same devotion to animals that the newest staff member, Aimee Chin, Office Assistant since July, took Colby home, hoping for a miracle and giving of herself to make it happen. As of this writing, Colby cuddles with Aimee, rolls for belly rubs, and lurches after her like a sea lion in response to her voice. Mobility and eye inflammation have been responding to laser therapy at the shelter. The prognosis is guarded but there is hope. There is always hope at the Foothills Humane Society. www.foothillshumanesociety.org

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FEATURE

CLARA ROGERS Instilling an Appreciation of the Arts at Tryon Elementary School for 34 Years

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WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED

BY MARK LEVIN

Clara’s third-grade students working on Super Saturday posters.

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t’s not going to be easy for Clara Rogers to say goodbye to a life she’s known for 34 years. And it’s not going to be easy for the students (her kids as she calls them) either. Clara has been the art teacher at Tryon Elementary School since 1984. A generation or two of students have learned to appreciate art and even become working artists under her guidance. And she’s leaving at the top of her game. Clara says she wanted to leave while she still has the energy and drive left in her to continue to do some exciting things. And it’s obvious to anyone watching Clara teach that she is not going to sit idle in her upcoming retirement. She’s

Clara works with fourth graders on still life art.

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already working on ideas for her second act.

Clara’s philosophy is that everyone has the artist inside of him or her, but they need someone to help draw it out and, “That’s my job.” It’s a job she has been devoted to for all of these years. She would argue though that the word “job” doesn’t really describe what she’s been doing all these years – teaching art is a passion for Clara and it’s been a joy to be able to infuse this joy in her students. It’s so much more than a job.

Teaching hasn’t always been easy. Her first teaching job right out of college was on Johns Island teaching third graders. Being new, Clara drew the short straw for a classroom and spent her first three weeks as a professional educator teaching outside under a tree. And if was a rainy day, she got to move class inside…that would be inside of a school bus. Her students spoke Gullah as readily as English. With the same enthusiasm as her current students experience, she opened up a world of wonder for these children. Most had never been off the island and Clara made it her mission to expose them to the bigger world of Charleston and to open their eyes and minds to new experiences.

Clara wasn’t about to give up and she couldn’t.

Her husband, Wayne, was in medical school and

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Clara Rogers has touched the hearts and minds of so many Tryon students and their parents. She was such an influence on my children! Clara’s influence on my son Matt was very strong. After earning an economics and communications degree at Wake Forest University, he is now studying art in Florence, Italy in a three-year program.

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— Beth Laughridge, parent MAY 2019

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Clara works with fourth graders on still life art.

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Clara’s work helped pay the bills and put him through school. Wayne’s schooling and residencies required some moves and with that Clara had to seek out new school positions. After Johns Island she found teaching positions in the upstate while Wayne was finishing up residencies and gearing up to start his dermatology practice. But Greenville isn’t where Clara wanted to live and she said Wayne always promised her she could live in a small town. And that’s how they made the move here. It wasn’t long after this move to Tryon that she was able to convince the local school superintendent to give her a job as the new art teacher. And now 34 years later it’s not going to be easy to leave. Clara loves her students, she loves their parents and she loves her colleagues. It has been an incredible journey. And Clara, like it or not, can’t help but see former students wherever she goes in the community. Her husband says it’s like being with the Queen of England because she’s like royalty whenever they go anywhere.

Clara put her Master of Arts Education degree to great use all these years but she’s also made good use of her minor in drama. Clara and music teacher Woody Cowan worked together as a team to produce incredible shows and pageants involving entire classes of kids and sometimes the entire school. Woody says, “For 32 years I’ve have the pleasure of working with Mrs. Rogers on Tryon Elementary stage productions. Clara is always the guiding star, showing our students the magic of the spark that is created when imagination and love combine to create a masterpiece.”

Clara is going to miss those masterpieces, both the stage versions and those coming out of her art students.

She gets teary-eyed thinking of retirement but she’s knows the time is right. There’s so much she’s going to miss and what she will miss most of all will be the joy she gets out of working with and being around children.

Her plans for the future will set up such experiences for another generation of kids. Clara wants to figure out a way to offer theatre classes and orchestrate stage productions for children and she also wants to teach after-school art classes. You have to love something with all your heart to stick at it for 34 years and then want to do more of the same. And it’s obvious Clara Rogers loves teaching and the life it has given her. Clara finished by saying, “My mission with teaching art is to give my students all the pieces needed to understand and appreciate art. Most will not be artists but maybe I have given them enough knowledge to talk about and understand the big picture of art. If you understand the basis of art you can truly enjoy it.”

There’s no doubt she is surrounded by an entire community of people who grew up understanding and appreciating art because of their time spent in the art classroom of Clara Rogers.

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FEATURE

Teddy Bear Betsy McCray 48

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Saving a teddy bear

BY PEBBLES

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here he stood with his head held high, his small furry ears pricked expectantly forward with anticipation of something better to come. Those sweet glasslike eyes of good intention pleading urgently for aid. How could no one being picking this horse to take home?

Well I said to myself, he looks just like a soft bear with that thick black, plush coat. Most definitely, he reminded me of a prize Steiff Teddy Bear complete with the yellow tag. Oh yes, he had a tag alright, but it was his one-way ticket to Mexico glued to his back.

Clear as a bell to me, this fellow was screaming out to live. It was his last day before being shipped to slaughter. Come on HERD, please buy him! He rode quietly in the video. His sale post described him as a family-owned Amish driving horse.

My mistress Heather Freeman heard my plea although this aged gelding was a bit older than what HERD normally rescues from kill pens. He sure looked kind and desperate. Horses under the age of 10 are the norm for what is secured by our rescue to recondition for new homes. However, in life there are always exceptions. This gentle soul was going to be one of them if I had my say in the matter.

Heather and her rescuing accomplices of HERD, Stuart Evans and Jennifer Demyanovich quickly mounted the effort to save this horse. He would have to be picked up in Pennsylvania and delivered to quarantine in North Carolina. The women worked feverishly and sent in the payment a few hours before the deadline of 8 p.m.

HERD had also saved another tall, dark and handsome horse from this same kill lot. A bay 16.2-hand, three-year-old labeled as a thoroughbred, but we think he is a warmblood. A stallion, the name Majestic had already been picked for him. These two “Mutt and Jeff� equines would share the ride down to quarantine together. One towering and dashing, the other cuddly cute and about 15.1 hands. What to call the new addition, I vote Teddy Bear! Everyone agreed with me, the name fit him perfectly.

When his quarantine period came to an end, Tim and Delores Riffe delivered Teddy to the Edge Brewing Barcelona Rescue barn HERD is lucky enough to use for reconditioning horses.

Current residents at the barn, Simon, a smart looking quarter horse gelding age six, and Chance, a registered Oldenburg age 10, were there offer a welcoming good-natured frolic.

After meeting over the fence, the three took off in an easy canter to check out the perimeter of the pasture. This sure looked like it was going to be a nice easy group of geldings to keep together. Heather stayed with them an hour and then headed home.

However, a mere two hours later when Heather returned, all was not as peaceful. Simon and Chance grazed happily in the center of the field but not Teddy Bear. He was down as close as he could get to overlook the road below, pacing the fence. Back and forth he would walk methodically as a swiss-made watch. Heather grabbed his halter and a lead and went to catch him. She led him back to the water trough to see if he was thirsty as he was drenched in sweat from the constant pacing. You can lead a horse to water, but alas as the old saying goes, he would not drink. Next, she grabbed a brush and worked it over his wet body, and he calmed down. Then she took him over to join his new pasture mates. He put his head down to graze but once she unsnapped the halter, he went heading back to pace the lower fence.

Heather decided it was best to put them all up for the night in their big stalls with small paddocks attached so he would settle down with hay and water at his disposal. This gave him less room to be frantic. By morning, he appeared to be back to the calm Teddy we had all anticipated. But once let out of his paddock, he went right back to the corner by the road. This time a truck and horse trailer went by slowly. Teddy began hollering as loud as he could summon his voice. He was clearly looking for someone special to him. This went on all day. Anytime a bigger truck or a truck and trailer came into sight, he would call out inquiring are you there?

Within a few days, Teddy realized his friend MAY 2019

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Teddy Bear farrier Jessica Orr

was not coming to rejoin him. It was heartbreaking for us all.

We surmise that his partner was an older mare. She probably ran through the New Holland horse auction with Teddy and did not get purchased by the same kill buyer. Maybe she was thinner, maybe she was older and lame. We will never know. Teddy Bear seemed to be accepting of his loss and stays a bit closer to Simon and Chance while grazing.

Farrier Jessica Orr came out to trim everyone’s hooves and Teddy captured her heart. She posted photos of herself with him on Facebook, exclaiming she wished she had room in her herd. Then HERD’s veterinarian Kris Woodaman came out to give Teddy his vaccines and joined his growing fan club. She in turn called a good friend of hers, Betsy McCray. Betsy came out to meet the sweet gelding and was charmed. She then asked to bring out another friend who would enjoy seeing him too.

Even though he lost an equine lifelong friend, Teddy Bear appears to be making lots of new pals to help him find his way to a happy ending. We all have high hopes for this dear fellow. After years of service in Pennsylvania as a hardworking horse, he deserves a life like I have in HERD with Lee and John Major. In short, he needs to be one spoiled Teddy Bear!

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Teddy Bear

PEBBLES’ HONEY ROASTED CAULIFLOWER WITH GARLIC Who besides bears can resist a bit of honey!

Serves 4 as a delicious side dish Ingredients ½ head of a large cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets 4 tablespoons local honey 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce ½ tablespoon Sriracha or hot sauce (can leave out if you don’t like spicy) 1 tablespoon of cornstarch 6 tablespoons cold water Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the middle.

2. Spread cauliflower florets in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle over 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cauliflower start to caramelize, turning once.

3. In the meantime in a small saucepan combine honey, garlic, onion powder, soy sauce, and hot sauce or Sriracha.

Bring to a simmer over low heat stirring constantly.

4. Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl until completely dissolved.

5. Stir in the sauce and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. If it’s too thick, thin it out by adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, 6. When the cauliflower is done, transfer to a large bowl and pour the sauce over it. Toss the cauliflower in the sauce to coat.

7. Return to the baking sheet and roast for an additional minute, so that the cauliflower can absorb some of the sauce.

8. Serve warm!

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QUICK BITES

Encourage Healthy Eating Habits in Kids As a parent, instilling healthy eating habits in your children at an early age can aid in proper growth and development. Eating well goes a long way toward maintaining a healthy weight, increasing energy levels and improving moods while also reducing risk of obesity and other chronic issues such as heart disease and diabetes later in life.

Set your children on a path to making lifelong nutritious choices with these tips: • Foster independence. Allowing your children to help with shopping and meal prep can aid in them taking ownership of what they’re eating.

Start by divvying up easier tasks such as setting the table then work toward 52

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

creating snacks and meals on their own. These Rainbow Fruit Parfaits are simple for kids to assemble - just set the ingredients out and let them layer - and can serve as a healthful on-the-go breakfast or after-school snack.

• Offer balanced options. Children require balanced diets made up of all three major food groups, including fruits and vegetables, for proper development. Looking for the Produce for Kids logo next to nutritional, family-friendly items at the grocery store is an easy way to identify healthy food choices while also supporting local organizations that help children and families in need.

• Be a role model. Typically, your

children will follow your behaviors, which includes the types of foods they select at mealtimes. Eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables can help ensure your family is getting a complete range of nutrients. For example, a recipe like this Rainbow Buddha Bowl provides a combination of fresh and roasted vegetables that can be customized to meet your family’s tastes. Thinking about how many colors you eat in a day may inspire your kids to do the same, which can foster a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

To find more healthy meal inspiration, including more than 500 registered dietitian- and family-tested recipes, visit produceforkids.com.

RAINBOW FRUIT PARFAITS

Recipe courtesy of Produce for Kids Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 3

Ingredients 1/2 cup sliced strawberries 2 mandarins, peeled and segmented 1/2 cup chopped pineapple 2 kiwis, peeled and chopped 1/2 cup blueberries 1/2 cup red seedless grapes 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt Directions 1. In parfait glasses, layer strawberries, mandarins, pineapple, kiwis, blueberries and grapes.

2. Top each fruit parfait with yogurt.

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Marketplace Life in our Foothills Magazine • 828.859.9151

HOUSE FOR SALE 3BR ALL NEW!!

Just completed total remodel in Sunny View Community Must See!! $159,500 Call For Details: 828-625-4820 C.N.A $1,000 Sign-On Bonus 2nd $2 shift diff 3rd shift $1 shift diff RN/LPN $2000 Sign-On Bonus 7p-7a FT PT 3p-11p and 11p-7a C.N.A II PT Weekends. Please apply in person at Autumn Care of Saluda 501 Esseola St. Saluda, NC 28773.

ARCHITECTURAL GARDENS • Affordable Home/Garden • Vintage Décor • Birdbaths • Fountains • Vintage Ironwork • Architectural Salvage • Statuary • Gates • Fencing • Lighting • European Stone, urns, planters,and more!!

188 Johnny’s Rd., Inman,SC architecturalgardens188. com 864-401-0674 or 864-473-2042 Open Saturdays 9am-4pm Weather Permitting!

Medical-Assistant Wanted • Stable job history • Strong Phlebotomy skills • EMR Experience • Experience rooming patients/taking vitals • Experience processing labs • Giving injections • Assisting doctors/as-needed •Positive attitude, and passion for healthcare • CPR Certified • 2yrs experience as Medical Assistant • Accredited 54

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

Medical Assisting Program completion Mail resume to: Medical Assistant PO Box 219 Lynn,NC-28750 Bathliners of the Carolinas Bathtub Refinishing Porcelain, Fiberglass & Ceramic Tile Guaranteed 35 Years Experience Call us NOW!!!

864-915-7297 www.bathliners.com Call Bill the Painter for all your painting needs!

We also do drywall repair and wood repair! 32 years experience. Like Bill the Painter on Facebook!

Call 828-899-2647 CUSTOM STONE & BRICK MASONRY • Decks • Water features • Lighting effects • Landscaping. Call Craftsman Services now to schedule your personal consultation. 864-9782283 email: Craftsman1211@ gmail.com No Experience Necessary!!! Now Hiring Seamstresses • Training provided • Pay based on experience • Seasonal over-time • Excellent benefits!

Apply in person at: 212 N. Lyles Ave Landrum, SC CONCRETE SERVICE • Driveways • Patios • Slabs • Sidewalks • Bobcat Work • Dump Truck Work $$FREE ESTIMATES$$ CALL KELVIN NOW!!

864-706-4671

CRS • Contingent Resource Solutions - Providing the Right People - Now Hiring #AllTheShifts #AllTheJobs #AllThePay Full-Service Staffing Agency that cares about you and your career.

Give us a call TODAY! (864)336.2405 Duncan, SC (864)277.1164 Greenville, SC

640 GREENVILLE HWY, HENDERSONVILLE, NC 28792

(828)733-3320 (828)387-1401 www. hunterstreeserviceinc.com

Epperson’s Tree Service • Complete Tree Service • Dangerous removals • View Cutting • Lot Clearing • Tree Trimming • Crane Removals Serving NC for 25yrs Fully Insured ISA Certified Arborist (828)606-4980

Now Hiring Experienced Gutter & Downspout Installers Pay based on experience Call Robie at: 864-303-5955 Carolina Gutter Helmet 20yr Local Specialty Home Improvement Company

828-817-2580 garywcorn@gmail.com First Real Estate, Inc 2512 Lynn Road Tryon, NC 28782 www.TryonRealEstate.com

Part-time security position at premier retirement community in Hendersonville, NC. Tuesday/Wednesday/ Thursday, 4PM-Midnight.

Country club atmosphere, friendly environment. One free meal included with each shift worked. Please apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville NC 28792.

No phone calls, please.

Craftsman Services.

YOUR most trusted name for remodeling and repairs. For more information e-mail: craftsman1211@gmail. com Or call: Tel: 864-978-2283 Dan Steiner Painting For a Fine Paint Job High Quality-Low Prices • Professional Pressure Washing • Gutter Cleaning • Minor Repairs 828-817-0539 or 828-894-6183 *Senior Discount Available* DIXON AC & HEATING • Your HVAC Service & Repair Expert • Serving the Tryon area for 30+ years.

Call (828)863-0555 ERIKA BRADLEY, REALTOR® 828.702.5970 YOUR LOCAL REALTOR HELPING YOU BUY/SELL IN WNC! ERIKAB@C21ML.COM CENTURY 21 MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLES

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 828-859-5836 HOLT’S GRADING “No Job Too Small” • Land Clearing • Retaining Walls • Riding Ring & Repair • Fencing • Landscaping • Sod & Irrigation • Driveways • Tree Work All Types Brandon Holt: 828-899-0116(Cell) 828-899-0338(Office) NOW HIRING Hunter’s Tree Service Inc Experienced Tree Climbers, Must have valid driver’s license & positive attitude.

Fully insured. Benefits offered.

Full-Time Housekeeping positions available at premier retirement community in Hendersonville, NC. Excellent benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, short-term disability, paid time off. Country club atmosphere, friendly environment, competitive pay. One free meal included with each shift worked. Please apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

No phone calls, please.

Cook position at premier retirement community in Hendersonville, NC. Country club atmosphere.

Full-time, excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, shortterm disability, paid time off, competitive pay. One free meal included with each shift worked. Apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville NC. No phone calls, please.

Full-time 1st shiftMaintenance position at premier retirement community. Country club atmosphere, excellent benefits, friendly work environment. Excellent benefits, competitive pay.

Complimentary meals for each shift worked. Please apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville NC 28792.

No phone calls, please.

Full-time driving position at Lake Pointe Landing premier retirement community.

Country club atmosphere.

CDL, passenger stamp & medical examiners card are required. Please apply in person: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville NC 28792. Excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, life insurance.

Paid vaction and sick time.

Free meal included for each shift. Competitive pay, friendly work environment. Come join our winning team!

CNA positions available at premier retirement community in Hendersonville, NC. Fulltime positions. Excellent benefits: Medical/dental/ vision/life, short-term disability, PTO. Country club atmosphere, friendly environment, competitive pay. Free shift meals.

Please apply in person at: 333 Thompson Street, Hendersonville NC 28792.

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.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN TRYON: • 2BR/2BA Updated kitchen. Porches. Garage. $1500/mo.

• 1BR/1BA Spacious, furnished efficiency. $825/ mo. All utilities & cable included. Agent owned.

Call/Text 828-817-0755.

Private House Cleaning.

Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly or 1 Time.

15 yrs exp.

References upon request.

Free In-home Estimates!

Marjorie 828-817-6350 BARN FOR RENT $300 per stall- you feed & clean. 4 stalls $900/mo.

OR $400/mo per stall, full board. Available Jan. 15.

In hunting country, Tryon, NC. 864-382-9313 KARATE CLASSES Won Moo Do • Children & Adults REGISTER NOW!!

4:00pm-6:00pm Grace Community Center, Tryon Call 864-382-9313 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.

Seeking outstanding caregiver for part-time employment. Provides Respite Services for a highfunctioning adult male needing I/DD support in Columbus/Tryon area.

Requirements: High school diploma/GED/equivalent, Valid Driver’s License w/ current vehicle insurance, clean driving record. Some experience working in I/ DD field preferred.

Send resume to:

dmaney@macs-inc.org or call 828-676-2135, ext.

408 for more information.

Mid-level provider to work at Mountain Youth Academy in Mountain City part-time, once/week for a few hours. Great pay, email resumes to: backus6@comcast.net Nelon-Cole Termite and Pest Control- Locally 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 Land for Sale: 14.48 Acres with stream, distant mountain views, some clearing done.

Located on County Line/ Womack Rd. Priced to sell at $115,000.

Properties UnlimitedCommercial Division.

828-287-0750 PAVILLON Private, residential treatment facility now hiring: • FULL-TIME DISHWASHER • FULL-TIME HOUSEKEEPER Excellent benefits! Background/ drug test required. For more information & to apply: www.pavillon.org/ employment.php HumanResources SupportTeam@Pavillon. org EOE PEER RECOVERY SUPPORT SPECIALIST Full-time, evening & overnight shifts, Mill Spring NC. Requirements: HS Diploma/GED Equivalent or current counselor intern & 12-step

recovery knowledge.

This position monitors the activity of patients to ensure optimal safety, support, structure & crisis intervention. Excellent benefits: PTO, 401k with match, medical/dental/ vision/life insurance, chef-prepared shift meals.

Download application: www.pavillon.org Fax to 828-694-2326 or email to: humanresources supportteam@pavillon.org Background check/drug test required.

RN POSITIONS - PRN STAFF Pavillon residential primary treatment center for adults with substance use disorder near Lake Lure, NC is hiring in our Nursing department.

Are you interested in transforming lives as part of a talented multidisciplinary team?

Day & night shifts available at Pavillon’s main residential treatment facility in Mill Spring, NC. Registered Nurses with experience in behavioral health, addiction & detoxification preferred.

Download application: www.pavillon.org Fax to 828-694-2326 or email to: humanresources supportteam@pavillon.org Background check/drug test required.

PSR PLUMBING • Service • Repair • New Installations • Commercial & Residential Local, licensed plumber with 10+ years experience Call Lou at: 864-326-5051 or visit facebook.com/PSRPlumbing POLK COUNTY SCHOOLS • Afterschool Workers/All Schools $10.00/hour • Bus Drivers-$13.74/ hour • Substitute Bus

Monitors-$11/hour • Food Service Worker Substitute $8.28/hour Visit:www.polkschools. org/employment Call:828894-1001 Rojas Maintenance & Gardening • Spring Clean-up •Tree Trimming • Landscaping • Mulch Services FREE ESTIMATES!!!

Horacio Rojas 864-518-6793 $10 Off Winter Prevantative Maintenance (Reg $75) Rutherford Heating and Air 828-287-2240 7-K Garbage Service Monthly • Weekly One Time Service We Pick It Up! 828-894-9948 hyatt2658@yahoo.com Owner - Suzette Hyatt Meditation FREE Every Wednesday. Qigong class: 6:30-7:00p.m. Meditation: 7:00-7:30p.m. Come to one or both. No charge, just locals coming together. In Tryon. Call for directions. 828-273-4342 Yellow House Landrum 508 E.Rutherford St • Landrum Sleeps 5-9 in 4 Bedrooms. Company coming and not enough room? Here is the perfect answer, call now to book your reservation!!

Call:828-426-3638 www. yellowhouselandrum.com FOR SALE Great retirement home • Elevator and heated pool • Walking distance to Harmon Field • Year-round mountain views • Private tranquil setting • Low maintenance Call 828-817-5126 $349,000

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WHY I LOVE THE FOOTHILLS

AARON GREENE Polk County Schools Superintendent

For the last three years, Aaron Greene has been the Superintendent of Polk County Schools. What began twenty-five years ago as a mild-mannered high school math teacher, he worked his way up the ladder to an administrative role as the Assistant Superintendent, on to his current position.

A very humbling individual, he lives each day by the same words his predecessor, Bill Miller, had, “Doing What’s Right for Students.” He won’t make a decision if it doesn’t benefit each and every student.

It’s leadership like this that has led Polk County Schools to be the Number 1 ranked school system in North Carolina in 2018.

What do you enjoy most about working for Polk County Schools?

I enjoy being a part of a collective that works every single day to make a positive impact and difference in the lives of our students. I am proud that our educators are dedicated to exemplifying our motto, “Doing What’s Right for Students.” Our mission is to provide high quality educational experiences to the young people of Polk County, but being an educator in Polk County means caring and doing more.

Being one of the highest performing districts in the state is always our goal and we are certainly excited to be at the top of the list. Our district’s performance reflects the commitment our students and families have to doing well, the hard work of our staff and schools, and the tremendous support we receive from our community. This work is highly dependent on the strength of the relationships we establish with students, families, communities, and community partners.

Being a small part of these relationships, efforts, and successes is extremely rewarding for me as an educator.

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Why did you choose to live in Polk County versus moving to a different city?

The people and community make all the difference. Polk County Schools was the first district to give me an opportunity to realize my career goal of being a high school math teacher. Once I arrived in this wonderful place, met the people, and began teaching at Polk County High School I knew this was always going to be home. I feel very fortunate to have “found” Polk County, begin my professional career here, and live and raise a family in this incredible community. Twenty-five years later this place is very special to me, and I would not want to be anywhere else!

What do you love most about living in the Foothills?

This question is hard to answer because this area has so much to offer. Friendly people, beautiful places, great weather, loads of activities, and a rich history all combine to make our community special. I have always loved the mountains, small town life, and the feeling you can make a difference here.

If I had to narrow it down to what I love most, it would have to be the wonderful people who join together to support each other and their communities.

What places would you recommend people visit then they come here?

There are far too many to name, but I think visitors ought to take a look at our First Peak Travel and Tourism site at www.firstpeaknc.com. It’s a great place to start learning about our area and planning for a visit. I would recommend they take in as much as they can while they are here. Go to great places like the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) and take advantage of outdoor activities at Green River adventures. Visit our local Polk Museum, Veterans Park and the unique towns of Columbus, Saluda, and Tryon. All have a variety of history, local restaurants and businesses, and great experiences to offer. I would include trips out to beautiful Sunny View and the rolling hills of Green Creek and Mill Spring. Don’t forget about the art galleries, Tryon Fine Arts Center, local libraries, the multitude of equine activities and much more!

PARTING GLANCE

Flyin’ the friendly skies After eight years of training, Sam Basye has earned his wings. Graduating from Polk County High School in 2011, he went on to receive a degree in Aeronautics from Liberty University in 2015. He then became a flight instructor for Liberty in order to get the required flight hours needed to apply to the airlines.

Sam has finally reached his dream of becoming a pilot, seen here taking his first flight as 1st officer for United Airlines regional airline, United Express.

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ADVERTISER INDEX ACTS Tryon Estates Berkshire Hathaway Jamie Jo Noble Beverly Hanks Realtors - Saluda Blue Ridge Sun Brunson’s Furniture Center Caitlyn Farms and Event Center Carolina Storage Solutions Carruths Furniture Cason Builders Claussen Walters Realty Eco View Windows Esmeralda Inn Harper Eatery and Pub Heartwood Galleries Hensons Building Supply Hilliard - Lyons Investments Hospice of the Carolina Foothills JB Trees & Scapes Lake Pointe Landing Laurel Hurst / Laurel Woods

9 35 13 19 51 6 38 13 27 2 31 47 17 11 15 53 3 37 59 19

McFarland Funeral Home New View Realty Odean Keever & Associates Inc. Parsec Financial Penny Insurance Polk County Transportation Price Services Heating & Air ServiceMaster of Polk County SG Power & Equipment Southside Smokehouse St Lukes Hospital Strauss Attorneys The Book Shelf The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run Time Out Management Tryon Builders Tryon Fine Arts Center Tryon Garden Club Wells Fargo Financial Advisors Wood Works

53 4 41 43 41 51 58 47 37 15 Back cover 58 29 39 7 27 5 21 23 21

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