Saluda Property & Real Estate

A Quick Saluda Market Update

(compares last year's sales with the same period this year as of February 28, 2014). 

Sales              Closed   Pending 

Homes 2014     5          3            

Homes 2013     3          0      

Land 2014         0         0               

Land 2013         1         0 

Foreclosures-REO-Short Sales (Homes) 

Saluda - 2 properties  

Polk County - 7 properties 

Data taken from Western NC multiple listing service.

Please visit cathyjacksonrealty.com to see all Cathy Jackson Realty Featured Home and Land Listings and search the entire Western NC MLS.

In March, Cathy Jackson Realty will celebrate its 8th anniversary. Thanks to all our clients, colleagues, friends, and family for their support and business.  We wouldn't be here without you and are grateful to all of you for the opportunity to work, play, and live in the Saluda community.

-Cathy Jackson, Amy Zollo, Greaton Sellers

Saluda Business Association meets Monday, March 3 at 5:30 at Saluda Library.

Saluda Community Land Trust Monthly meeting 3pm, March 5 at the Saluda Presbyterian Church.

Saluda Town Hall Meeting at Saluda Fire Department, March 6, 6pm to 8pm. Everyone welcome. 

Town Council meets the second Monday of the month at 7:00pm in the meeting room above the Saluda Library.

The Historic Saluda Committee The regular meeting with Oral History Committee will meet Friday, March 14 from 2 to 4pm at the Saluda Library.  The public is invited to attend.   

Contra Dancing, Saturday, March 11 at 7pm, Party Place & Event Center. 

Women's Club meets on Tuesday, March 11 at 10:00 am at Saluda Presbyterian Church.

The Saluda branch of Tree City USA

Al-Anon Family Group meets every Tuesday, 6:30pm at the Saluda Center, 64 Greenville St.   

Polk County Extension Club  

Saluda Small Town Main Street Updates 

Saluda was designated as a "NC Small Town Main Street" September 2012.  Since then, involved Saludians have formed committees to organize and plan projects and events to meet Saluda's future revitalization and success. The Small Town Main Street program focuses on organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring.  Saluda Lifestyles will update what this dynamic group of volunteers is planning.

Economic Restructuring

Saluda Locavestors

Saluda Locavestors are stepping up to fund a grant program to help downtown Saluda have a more beautiful, vibrant and engaging downtown.

Your tax deductible contribution will help to fund matching grants for downtown projects proposed by organizations, businesses and individuals who want to make our downtown everything it can be. We want everyone to participate and feel a part of this effort.  Make check payable to "City of Saluda, Locavestor Fund" and mail to City of Saluda, P. O. Box 248, Saluda, NC 28773 or drop your check off at City Hall.

We hope you will add your name and thanks to these Saludians who have already made their contribution:   

DiAnne Arbour and James Bergen

Carolyn Ashburn and Chuck Hearon

Beth and Jim Carson

Lynn and Mike Cass

Marcia Crumrine

Livvy French

Jerry and Kathryn Greenhoot

Polk County Community Foundation

Kathy and Glenn Ratliff

Judy Thompson

Peggy and Herb Thornton

Ellen and Wayne Unger

Susie Welsh

Anonymous

Heartwood

Catherine Ross 

A cash mob is a group that gets together and spotlights a local business to help our local business owners. We would like to have as many shoppers as possible who will agree to meet at the parking lot below McCreery Park to go to a selected business and spend at least $20. If the group decides to meet in the morning, they will go to a local restaurant together afterwards. If the group decides to meet at 4 in the afternoon, they will go for a drink afterwards.

Meet & Greet - An opportunity to get better acquainted with the Saluda Small Town Main Street program.  Scheduled for May 1, at 6pm at the Saluda Fire Department, Sherry Adams, program director, will review where we started, where we are, and where we go from here. Cookies, soft drinks and coffee will be served.

Design and Appearance

Saluda Welcome Marquee - Raising money and requesting grants for a new "welcome sign" at the corner of Ozone and Highway 176 to inform visitors and residents of upcoming annual events.

Streetscapes - Evaluating our Main Street and how to improve its appearance and appeal to people so they will want to linger and stay longer.

Promotions

Top of the Grade Concerts -Concerts at Top of the Grade at McCreery Park from May to October, two Friday's a month.  

Top of the Grade at McCreery Park Amphitheater - A conceptual plan to build an amphitheater in the "old skate board park." Fundraising events are planned.

Fashion Show

A fashion show is being planned to raise funds for the Top of the Grade Amphitheater for early May.  If you are interested in participating with your clothes, apparels, accessories, jewelry, and other fashionable items to model, display, and sell, please contact Cathy Jackson at cathy@cathyjacksonrealty.com by March 15.

The Saluda Small Town Main Street committees meet the third Tuesday each month at 9:00am at the Saluda Library.  The public is welcome to attend.

Click here to download a new City of Saluda quarterly newsletter, Saluda News You Can Use.

Click here to visit the City of Saluda's new Facebook page.  

Saluda Town Hall Meeting

Meet with your elected officials and get informed. Spread the truth! Join us on Thursday, March 6, from 6 - 8 p.m. for a Town Hall Meeting at the Saluda Fire Department. We want to hear from you and to find out your concerns.  We may not have the answers but at least we will know your questions. 

Former journalist and founder of WNC Health Advocates, Leslie Boyd, will be the guest speaker at the Saluda Center, Monday, March 3 at 7:00 pm. As she goes over the ins and outs of Affordable Health Insurance, Boyd will share her personal story and passion for making health care accessible for everyone. A question and answer session will follow with certified counselors from Blue Ridge Community Health Services present to assist with questions about the enrollment process. They will also be available to make appointments for further help or to enlist the aid of bilingual counselors.

This event is free and everyone is welcome.  

The Saluda Fire Department Auxiliary will hold a BBQ dinner for six-year old, Ben Leslie, cancer victim and son of Mary and Curtis Leslie of Saluda.  The proceeds will be used to help with medical and travel expenses while traveling to and from Charlotte for Ben's treatment. 

A BBQ dinner and live gospel and bluegrass music will be held at the Saluda Fire Department, March 15 from 4 to 7pm. A special highlight will be a cake auction.  Tickets are $7 and purchased at the door.

The auxiliary is also raffling tickets to win a Netbook laptop.  Tickets are $5 or 3 for $10.

If you would like to donate to this worthy cause, donations by check can be made payable to The Leslie Family and taken to Macon Bank, Saluda.

For more information or to donate to the raffle, please contact Charlene Pace at 828-749-2641. 

Dance into spring with Blue Ridge Contra on Saturday, March 8th!

Our dances just keep getting bigger and better! The Valentine's dance in February was a big hit with new and experienced dancers, and a lot of folks took advantage of our special "bring two new dancers and you get in free" coupon which is still available in March!

We welcome back caller Jennie Wakefield who says "no dance form exemplifies the statement that 'everyone is a dancer' like contra." She keeps dancers feet moving and laughter coming! The band for March is our much-loved Skeeziks with our favorite fiddler Alan Dillman, Joel McConnell on mandolin and bouzouki, Wes Maluk on guitar and tenor banjo, and Terry Maluk on percussion.

The location is our favorite Party and Event Place on Friendship Road.  Lessons are from 7-7:30 and dancing from 7:30-10pm. Even if you have had lessons come on back and learn more at 7pm! Admission is $9 and those under 18 $5.   

So come on and dance your way into spring!

For directions, please visit partyplaceandeventplace.com. For more information or to sign up for our email list, please visit blueridgecontra@icloud.com. See Blue Ridge Contra on FaceBook and for a sample dance visit Gallery.

The Saluda Center Book Club invites you to the next meeting on Thursday, March 6, 2014, at 2 PM at the Center. 

 
The Road from Gap Creek by Robert Morgan will be discussed and everyone is invited.
 
Review of The Road from Gap Creek by Robert Morgan from bookbrowse:     

"When Robert Morgan's novel Gap Creek was published in 1999, it became an Oprah Book Club Selection and an instant national bestseller, attracting hundreds of thousands of readers to its story of a marriage begun with love and hope at the turn of the twentieth century. Set in the Appalachian South, it followed Julie and Hank Richards as they struggled through the first year and a half of their union. 

But what, readers asked, of the years that followed? What did the future hold for these memorable characters?

The Road from Gap Creek holds the answers to these questions, as Robert Morgan takes us back into their lives, telling their story and the stories of their children through the eyes of their youngest daughter, Annie. Through Annie, we watch as the four Richards children create their own histories, lives that include both triumphs and hardship in the face of the Great Depression and then World War II. Much more than a sequel, The Road from Gap Creek is a moving and indelible portrait of people and their world in a time of unprecedented change, an American story told by one of our country's most acclaimed writers."

For more information, call 828-749-1212. 

Saluda Democrats Meeting at The Green River Depot

A meeting you won't want to miss.  This family friendly event is an information session, a potluck, and a night out on the town.   

Come learn about local politics.  If you are feeling overwhelmed and uninformed, come to our meeting.  Guest Speaker, Margaret Parker will begin the meeting with briefly educating the group about local issues.

Come meet the Polk County Commissioner Candidates.  This includes Democrats Ray Gasperson, Bill Ingham, and Lee Mink, who will speak, and answer your questions.   

Please Note:

The Green River Depot is the venue but it has no political affiliation.  Beer will be for sale.  You may bring a dish to share if you like, but there will be more than enough if you don't.  Please come and enjoy.

Green River Brew Depot is located at 26 Church Street (behind city hall).

The Saluda Small Town Main Street Promotions Team hosted a Valentine's Party on Friday, February 14, 2014 at the Saluda Fire & Rescue Department to raise money for the Amphitheater at Top of the Grade at McCreery Park. 

We want to thank all of those who supported this event.  The banquet room of the SFD was transformed into a romantic and charming venue with Valentine decorations made by Saluda School students, candle lit tables, and red roses were given to the ladies. Thanks to Judy Gibbs, a personal friend of Terry Baisden from Georgia, who photographed couples and groups against a Valentine's back drop and made souvenir cards on site.   

A special thanks to Terry and Fred Baisden who went the extra mile to make sure this event went on after 10-12 inches fell on Saluda a few days before. Fred grilled steaks and chicken while Terry organized and set up the venue and catered the food. The desserts were indeed decadent and Judy Ward had a "candy bar" where you could fill up a container with all sorts of chocolates and Valentine candy.  

Rodney Gibson and Rick Gunderson from "Sound Investment" played Rock & Roll genres while guests danced the night away. 

$1,125 was raised of which a $225 donation was made to the Saluda Fire Department.  A $24 donation collected for Valentines made by the Saluda School 4th & 5th grade students was given to the art teacher to be used for art supplies. The remaining funds will go into the Amphitheater Fund.

NOTE:   

If you would like to contribute to the Amphitheater Fund, please write checks payable to City of Saluda (indicate for the Amphitheater Fund) and mail to PO Box 248, Saluda, NC 28773.  For questions, please contact Terry Baisden at 828-749-3789, email terrybaisden@tds.net, or Judy Ward, 828-749-2321, email judyward@charter.net.

A Thrifty Barn is open Wed. through Sat. from 10:00 am-4:00 pm.  Donations are accepted when we are open.

If you are in need of some medical equipment, please call 828-749-9245. We may be able to loan you what you need.

Please refer to the Saluda Center calendar for all regularly scheduled activities. There is no membership fee.

If you would like to receive the Saluda Center calendar via email, please contact Donna at saludacenter@hotmail.com to be added to our email list.   

The Saluda Center is located at 64 Greenville St. Phone is 828-749-9245. 

The Robinson Community Garden on Henderson Street is waiting for avid gardeners and for novices who want to learn as they produce food for the home table.  Sign-up opportunities are scheduled for March 13 and April 10 at the library at 6:00 p.m.  Plots will be assigned on a space available basis.  For more information about plots for the 2014 growing season, call Dave and Marilyn Prudhomme for the particulars at 828-749-9172  or e-mail them at dclp@tds.net.

The Saluda Community Land Trust which sponsors the community garden is offering a new service to both new and experienced gardeners who accept a plot in the garden for 2014.  Walter Hoover will make himself available to anyone who would like some hands on practical guidance now or later in the growing season.  He will work with them on an individual basis at the garden. The objective of this outreach is to increase production in, and enjoyment of, the garden plots for an extended growing season.  Learn about soil preparation, inter-planting, succession planting, weed control and other gardening techniques that can increase success and satisfaction.  To  make arrangements any time, you may call Walter at 828-749-5846 or e-mail him at charlesstreetgarden@tds.net .

So, sign up for a plot for 2014 and let February be the month for planning and for ordering seeds in anticipation of the new gardening season.  And, don't forget that March is the month for planting early crops such as English and snow peas, fava beans, Irish potatoes, radishes, beets, carrots, lettuce, spinach, kale and much more.

Submitted by Walter Hoover

Charles Street Garden

Visit charlesstreetgarden.com 

 Adopt-A-Highway will once again be cleaning up the entrances to Saluda on Highway 176. Mark your calendar for Monday, March 10 with rain date of March 17. We will meet in the library parking at 10 AM and each volunteer will be provided a safety vest. Two teams will work both sides of the entrance of Saluda on Highway 176.

Polk County Community Foundation has provided valuable sources for our efforts. We thank them for all that they do to help with our endeavors. One of the many ways they have helped us is their financial assistance with our operating expenses. Their support has allowed us to focus on funding our community projects. With the help of PCCF, we are able to continue with specific community projects as well as have our 7^th Annual meeting!

This year we will have plant ecologist Rob Evans as our speaker. Bring your friends and neighbors along with your children for a night of refreshments, education and an update on our many projects. We will meet at the Saluda Center on Wednesday, April 23 at 6:00 PM.

The Saluda Dog Park is a joint project with the City of Saluda. Expansion is being planned and cleanup workdays are being organized. It's a great spot for your dog to run free and socialize. For more information about the Saluda Dog Park contact Dave Prudhomme at 828-749-9172.

Keep an eye out on the Robinson Garden. Plots have been assigned and planting has begun. Soon it will be green with growth as vegetables rise to the surface to smile at the sun. It's a wonderful place for residents to gather and work in a peaceful garden environment right in the middle of town!

Our next board meeting is on Wednesday, March 5, at 3PM. We will be meeting at our office in the upstairs of the Saluda Presbyterian Church and the public is invited.  

Please feel free to contact us about any of our projects by calling our office at 828-749-1560 and leaving a message. We will return your call promptly. Also be sure to check out our updated website saludaclt.org. We look forward to your comments and suggestions.

Win a Jade Plant - 36 inches high, and blooms with a small white flower. All monies received will go to support the Dog Park and new agility course. Drawing will be held at the SCLT Annual Meeting in April.  Winner need not be present to win. The jade plant is on display at the Saluda Library.  Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5 and may be purchased at the Saluda Library, Gentle Hand Grooming (across from Green River BBQ), or contact Dave or Marilyn Prudhomme at 828-749-9172.

Our speaker for March will be Charlotte Gardner.  Charlotte is an herbalist and an expert on growing and using herbs.  This meeting is a must for anyone interested in creating an herb garden or using and enjoying a wide variety of herbs.  Following the meeting, members will have their annual seed and perennial exchange.

The meeting date is Monday, March 17^th at 10:00 a.m. in the upstairs conference room of the Saluda Library.

The public is welcome.    If you are interested in joining or would like to attend meetings and/or special events, please contact Patty Martin at 828-817-9518.

Some events may be cancelled or rescheduled.  We try to give advance notice but inclement weather or scheduling difficulties may occur.  You may confirm meetings and events with Patty Martin 828-817-9518.

Saluda's Branch (Tree City USA) currently meets the last Tuesday in each month, upstairs at the Saluda Community Library at 6:15pm.  Interested new members or visitors are always welcome.

For more information, call Ruth at 828-749-9718.  Leave message and phone number for return call.

The Saluda Craft Club will meet on Thursday, March 27 at 12:30pm at the Saluda Center.  This month we will be painting wood bird houses.  JoAnn's and Michaels craft stores have some really nice wood bird houses for around $5.00.  You will need a bird house, acrylic paints in the colors of your choice, a paint brush and some clear spray sealer, which can all be bought at JoAnn's or Michaels.  These bird houses are fun to paint and will make a nice Spring centerpiece for your table or put them outside and wait to see who takes up residence.  As always, you can bring your own craft to work on.  We would love to see what you are making.   

For more information, please contact Holly Wildey at 828-749-3129 or E-mail hollylane47@aol.com.

Saluda's Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2014, beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the vacant lot next to the Memorial Park downtown, with refreshments to be served afterwards in the Pavilion at McCreery Park.  

The children will be divided into age groups (0 to 5 years in one group, 6 to 12 years in one group, and 12 years and above in one group) and will be given a designated area to search for plastic eggs filled with surprises!

If you have any colored plastic eggs that you would like to donate to be used at the Hunt, please call 828-749-3789 (can never have enough eggs!).

We hope all children (young and old) will bring their Easter baskets and join in the fun!

The Easter Bunny will make an appearance, so parents bring your cameras.

Oral History Interviews 

We would like to thank our most recent oral history interviewee Pearlie Mae Suber Harris. Mary Ann Hester, Betsy Burdett and Carolyn Ashburn traveled to Mauldin, S.C. to interview Pearlie for the oral history project and to collect photographs depicting her life growing up in Saluda, which will be used in the Images of America publication. Pearlie attended church and school at St. Matthews Church in Saluda where her father was a minister.

HSC Purchased Video Equipment 

Proceeds from the sale of the HSC's DVD, "Home, Hearth and History: Stories of Old Saluda"and CD, "Saluda, NC: Voices from the First 100 Years" enabled the committee to purchase a high quality camera/video and accessories necessary to carry out the mission of the oral history project. Since the inception of the oral history project, Cindy Stephenson Tuttle has used her personal equipment to capture the treasured stories of Saluda's people and history. The purchase of the equipment will enable more HSC committee members to go out and capture snippets of history. Thank you to everyone who has supported our projects. Without you this would not be possible!

Preserve Your Family's Heritage

The Historic Saluda Committee (HSC) has been granted a secure space in the Saluda Public Library to store historical documents and artifacts. Items are now being archived in preparation for a future Historic Saluda Museum. Donations of originals or copies of vintage photographs depicting the history of Saluda's families and places are now being accepted. Also being accepted are documents, deeds, art, books, quilts, antiques or other relevant artifacts of historic interest that are in good condition. Contact us at historicsaluda@gmail.com or notify the City of Saluda who will advise a member of the HSC - 828-749-2581. We will gladly pick up donated items.

Help Set the Trend, New HSC Auto Stickers Available!

For only $3, you can help fund future HSC projects and at the same time help set a trend. These stylish non-fading automobile stickers, featuring the HSC logo, can be purchased through local merchants and at City Hall. Buy one to be cool - or be square!

CD Released! "Saluda: Voices from the First 100 Years"  

Get your copy of the oral history audio documentary, "Saluda, NC: Voices from the First 100 Years." Over 30 years ago when Anne Osborne and Charlene Pace were working on their book Saluda, NC: 100 Years 1881-1981, they conducted interviews with some of Saluda's oldest residents. Luckily, these interviews were captured on what we now consider to be "old fashioned" cassette tapes and were donated to the Oral History Committee. Snippets from these interviews were woven into a story line and compiled into this CD. Funding provided by the Polk County Community Foundation's Saluda Community Fund. The CD can be purchased ($10) through local merchants and at City Hall. You can also purchase it on-line at saludalifestyles.com. All proceeds go toward future projects. Click here to watch the YouTube promotional video.

DVD Available for Sale by Local Merchants

Home, Hearth and History: Stories of Old Saluda can be purchased ($20) through local merchants and at City Hall. You can also purchase it on-line at saludalifestyles.com. All proceeds go toward future projects.

Meetings

The Historic Saluda Committee (HSC) will meet on Friday, March 14, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at the Saluda Public Library in the upstairs meeting room. The Oral History Committee will also meet jointly with the HSC. The public is invited to attend. 

For more information about the Historic Saluda Committee, go to historicsaluda.org or contact us at historicsaluda@gmail.com.

Submitted by Cindy S. Tuttle, Co-Chair, Historic Saluda Committee

Nectar Yoga And Wellness Center 

Saluda's Premier Yoga Studio

NEW CLASS is Rockin

"Breathe Into It" - The Practice (3 hour intensives)
Sunday, March 2 & 30 1:30-4:30pm

Have you missed your yoga practice? I have! Join me in stepping back onto the mat in 2014. The theme for this coming year is "Breathe Into It."  The more we practice on the mat, the more we learn about ourselves in the moment.  What is it we are being called to cultivate at this point in our lives?  What aspects of ourselves can we strengthen? Soften?  Where are we blocked in the body and in the mind?  Where are we holding tension, congested emotion, and stress?  As we practice together this year, we will breathe into it.  Breathe into your body and into your heart.  Breathe life, love, and attention into the places that have been neglected and discover a renewed sense of spirit in 2014!
Immerse yourself in the transformational powers of The Practice..it's back.  Go deep into your yoga and go deeper into your heart. This month we look at embodying the energies of Durga and Parvati which contain strength/protection and inner/outer union. Offered once a month as long as we have 12 committed participants to make it happen.  

Mark your calendars and reserve your spot! March 2nd & 30th Nectar $24-30 (sliding scale).

"Energies of the Divine Feminine" Pt. 2 - Parvati & Durga

Learning about deities helps us to cultivate the magical attributes that exist within each of us.  Expand you daily life with the knowledge of powers and potentialities that reside in you. Rediscover your yoga practice through the lens of the divine feminine and the energies of the goddess.  This March we will begin looking at Parvati: The Goddess of Sacred Marriage & Durga: The Warrior Goddess of Protection and Strength.  All levels dynamic yoga with asana, pranayama & guided meditation.  

3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24 & 3/31
6-7:30pm $75
Looking for 12 yogi's to participate, this could be you! 

Chandler and Raphaela are extensively trained in yoga, massage, counseling, and QRA, sharing a combined history of study and practice that spans over 20 years.

Saluda Community Library

Pre-School Storytime is held on Thursdays at 12:30pm. This 30 minute program featuring stories and crafts is recommended for children ages 3-5 (but all ages are welcome).   

Saluda's very own Montessori school for young children in our community will begin its third year in the fall of 2014 and enrollment is now open for children 3 to 6 years old. Two upcoming information sessions will provide a chance for families to learn about the Montessori approach to education.

On Tuesday, March 4^th at 6:30 pm, school founder and lead teacher Allison Daugherty will present a free workshop, "Language in the Montessori Classroom." Come learn about the Montessori approach to reading, writing, and spoken language development.  Discover techniques you can use at home to build vocabulary and pre-reading skills, and learn more about our school.   

Event will take place at the school, located at 144 Main Street in Saluda, across from the Green River Bar-B-Que. Contact the school at 828-749-9251 or email aedaugherty111@yahoo.com for more information.

The Montessori method was created by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator who began developing her approach in the late 19^th Century. Montessori education supports children's natural development by emphasizing independent discovery with freely chosen activities in a mixed age environment. As a six-time nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize, Montessori believed that the ultimate goal of all educators should be the creation of a peaceful world, and that with proper educational support, all children could follow their natural inclinations to love, to reach out to and respect the people, animals, and plants that populate their world.

Today the Montessori method is practiced in about 20,000 schools across the globe. At A Thousand Forests, children explore a core curriculum of Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, and Mathematics, with extensions in Art, Music, Science, Geography, and Peace Education. The primary program is designed to foster confidence, compassion, and independence through the use of individually tailored lessons with developmentally appropriate materials.

 

Upcoming Events at Saluda Elementary

March 2014

March 7    Snow Make-Up Day for January 29

March 10  School Board Meeting 6:30pm @ Stearns

March 11  End of 4th Six Weeks (This date may change.)

March 12  Book Swap

March 13  Report Cards (This date may change.)

March 14  Dress Down for Charity

March 15  Super Saturday in Tryon

March 18  Relay for Life Fundraiser:  After School Dance 3:10-4:10pm in the gym  

March 18  Relay for Life Fundraiser:  Faculty/Staff donate $ to wear jeans

March 20  PreK-5 Field Trip:  Flat Rock YouTheater "Charlotte's Web"

March 20  A+ Spring Leadership Conference

March 21  5th Grade to Harmon Field for Heritage Day

March 25  Interim Reports

March 27  Spring Informance:  Science Festival

March 28  Campfire Friday!  Wear camp t-shirts and jeans.

Visit Saluda School for additional school news.    

Principal, Ronette Dill   

Don't forget to collect Box tops! Box top collection containers are located in the Saluda Public Library, Saluda Post Office, and Saluda Elementary School Office.  

APRIL

Jerry's Baddle Green River Race --

Easter Egg Hunt, April 19  

MAY

Saluda Tailgate Market -(May through October)

Spring Green Bash - Hosted at Green River Adventures.

Saluda Arts Festival -Fine artists and skilled craftspeople from all over western NC and SC. Music, live demonstrations,  and a children's art tent! Third Saturday in May

Top of the Grade Concerts -- (May through October, 2^nd & 4^th Friday)

JULY

Coon Dog Day - A homecoming and celebration for dogs and their people! Great food, live music, parade, crafts, and more! 1^st Saturday after July 4.

SEPTEMBER

Green River Games - Extreme multisport event.

Charlie Ward's Memorial BBQ

NOVEMBER

Green Race - A world Class V kayaking race. 1st Saturday in November.

DECEMBER

Hometown Christmas - Open House and Music. 2nd Friday in December

US Post Office Store Hours

Mon-Fri 9:00am-1:00pm and 3:00pm-4:30pm

Sat 9:30am-11:00am Sun closed

Passport Service is available at the Saluda post office.

Get directions by clicking here  

102 E MAIN ST SALUDA, NC 28773-7812 

Shop online at the Saluda Lifestyles Mercantile for the following merchandise:  

"Saluda, NC: Voices from the First 100 Years" in CD format. Original recordings of interviews with Saluda's oldest residents documented in the book, Saluda, NC: 100 Years 1881-1981. These interviews were transferred to a CD by Historic Saluda. Price: $17 includes shipping and handling. 

Home, Hearth and History: Stories of Old Saluda DVD. Proceeds will go to the Oral History Project for the next sequel.   Price:  $20.00+shipping. 

With temperatures ranging from 0 to 70 degrees in a matter of days, this winter has proven to be bizarre and Saludians are eagerly awaiting spring.  As the increasingly warm sunshine warms the air, the cold air masses take a firm hold causing the weather to turn windy and stormy. Now as spring begins to take its rightful place, thoughts are turning to preparing gardens, opening summer homes, and planning outdoor adventures.

While strolling through the yard, everyone's eyes peer down, looking for the first green shoots of daffodils, jonquils, and irises.  Flowing yellow forsythias will bloom in March, giving us hope that spring and summer are knocking on the door.  Hiking in the woods and along mountain trails, the quiet elegance of trillium and blood root peek through the woodland floor and will get your attention.

As the sun and earth meet up at the celestial equator, the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere will occur on March 20 this year. Saludians will celebrate the rebirth of the mountains as they come alive with wildlife, floral, and fauna.

The world seems sad
mid winter's gloom,
But all is well
when the jonquils bloom. 

-Greg Grant 

The latest news and the unusual offerings provided by Saluda shops, restaurants, accommodations, outdoor recreation, artists, craftspeople, and service providers.     

Click here to read Top 10 Reasons to Support Locally Owned Businesses.

Saluda Skin Spa is now open and accepting appointments for free consultations, skin care procedures and product information.  Sherrye Chappell, owner and esthetician of Saluda Skin Spa, began her career working for an MD at a skin care clinic and is certified in Medical Esthetics.  Saluda Skin Spa specializes in scientifically advanced skin care.

 

Saluda Skin Spa makes a special effort to ensure that all products used in its treatments are synthetic preservative, chemical and animal-cruelty free. Saluda Skin Spa is a PARABEN-FREE SPA. Featuring select products from Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup, IMAGE skincare, Shankara, and Osmosis.

 

Image skincare is a pharmaceutical grade skincare product that gives licensed esthetician the ability to offer professional treatments and products. Shankara, a product line that uses eastern science of Ayurveda and Western state of art anti-aging science.  Osmosis, medical skincare dedicated to addressing core problems through a combination of products on a cellular level. Jane Iredale mineral makeup products are certified cruelty-free by PETA.

 

Saluda Skin Spa services offered are advanced micro-derm abrasion, chemical peels and LED Light Therapy. Basic Facials start at $45. If you have any questions or concerns about the products you are currently using or have an interest in using, please call 828-749-3616.  Consultations Are Free.

 

Saluda Skin Spa educates, motivates, and encourages positive habits, self-esteem, personal success and confidence in a fun and nurturing environment.  Escape into a world of total comfort and Relax and Be!

 

Saluda Skin Spa

789 Ozone Drive

Saluda NC  28773

828-749-3616

828-329-8152

saludaspa@hotmail.com

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

 

Random Arts & Boutique 

As you step into Random Arts and its brightly colored, craftsman style house, our newest addition of "one of a kind" vintage floor cloths will welcome you warmly. You'll be pleasantly surprised at all that we have to offer. From home accessories to art supplies, you will find it here at the corner of Ozone and Louisiana.  We have been a part of the Saluda business community for over 18 years now and you will find us in our very own, historic space with the bright orange and blue trim and plenty of parking.

 

The snow is now melted but it was beautiful in its new fallen form.

 

Winter Sale!!!

March Madness Sale - ALL Leggins and Long Sleeve Cotton T'shirts - Reg. priced at $18. now just $12.  Tunics, Dresses, Skirts and Pants 30% off while supply lasts. Stock up now!

 

Spring and summer collections arriving weekly.

Need a new outfit? New shoes? How about a bright new scarf or a colorful camisole?  You'll find most anything you need in our expanded Boutique section in our shop. We have  added several new lines of womens apparel, discovered in our travels, that will be perfect for those of us who live here or visit Saluda on the weekends.  Stop by and see our new spring separates that have already started filling our racks with beautiful color and style. You can count on weekly arrivals all through the spring and summer, beginning now!  Every day is different here at Random Arts and Boutique.

 

Along with clothing, you will find our extensive selection of art supplies such as Golden Paints, watercolors, brushes, drawing and sketch pads, gesso boards, canvases, watercolor paper, and lots more.

 

In keeping with art supplies is the multitude of workshops being offered by our talented instructors who come from as far away as Vancouver, BC, Texas, California, and all spots between. These workshops, taught by internationally know instructors, are open to beginners as well as advanced and start on Fri. March 7th and go through November. We, however, offer $20 workshops throughout the year in various mediums and levels of experience. Signing up for our email and checking our FaceBook page will keep you updated.

 

Visit our website: randomartsnow.com

481 Louisiana Ave

Saluda, NC 28773

Phone: 828-749-1165

email: randomarts@charter.net

Please LIKE us on FaceBook

 

 

Saluda Grade Café

Did you know that we are having more and more Gluten Free items on our menu? We don't mind special diets...it's what we do...Real Chefs cooking Real Food! Gluten Free Quesadillas, Cookies, Meatloaf and soooo much more! Watch for our Easter menu in the April issue of Saluda Lifestyles.

 

We Cater too! Large, Small, Formal or Casual-we want to be your Caterer! Every menu custom designed to suit your needs. We would love to cater your next Party or Office Lunch!

 

Keep in touch with us via Facebook to see pictures of what Saluda Grade is cooking up...Pictures of Caterings, Yummy Food and more.  

 

We are open: Tuesday thru Saturday, 11-3, lunch; Wednesday thru Saturday, 5-9, dinner; "Music on Friday Nights" at 7pm; Sunday 11-7.  

   

Visit us on the web at saludagradecafe.com or on Facebook for Friday night entertainers. 

 

Call 828-749-5854 or email us at saludagrade@hotmail.com.  Located at 40 East Main Street.    

     

The Oaks Bed and Breakfast

Yes!  Saluda is a remarkable place...a one-of-a-kind historic village, filled with unique restaurants, shops and galleries...a town where the railroad thrived and families traveled to find a healthier environment.

It is a town like a postcard from the past, where a stroll on Main Street takes you from the library, past the police department and city hall and on to the post office and bank.

Surrounded by the history of Western North Carolina and majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stands The Oaks Bed and Breakfast -- a warm and welcoming Victorian home, built in 1895 as the opulent residence of a doctor and today operating as Saluda's premier bed and breakfast.

The Oaks Bed and Breakfast

828.759.2000

Theoaksbedandbreakfast.com

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The Orchard Inn

If you consider yourself a "foodie" and enjoy culinary events, make your way to Saluda for the weekend of March 14th. We are excited to announce a Culinary Extravaganza Weekend at the Inn, which will include the following: 

* Italian themed wine & cheese arrival reception Friday evening, includes a glass of Prosecco or Italian wine.

* Full gourmet breakfast Sat & Sun mornings

* Interactive Cooking Class with Chef Marianne, and lunch Saturday, includes a glass of white or red Austrian wine

* Hors D'oeuvres and Dinner Saturday night, includes 2 glasses of wine

* Brunch on Sunday early afternoon, includes glass of Mosca Pesca or Mimosa

* 2 nights in one of our lovely rooms upstairs in the Inn (may upgrade to a cottage for an additional amount)

Only $795 per couple.

Originally built in 1926 and called the Mountain Home of Southern Railway Clerks the Inn sits on 12 acres, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a member of the distinguished Select Registry and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. There are 8 rooms upstairs in the Inn, all with private baths and lovely mountain views, a suite downstairs, and 5 private cottages with decks or screened in porches, Jacuzzi tubs, and gas fireplaces. All rooms are tastefully decorated with antiques and period pieces, and our linens are ultra luxurious. The gracious hosts, Marc & Marianne look forward to welcoming you to their little slice of heaven. We're proud to announce being awarded by Trip Advisor - 2012 & 2013 Certificate of Excellence and by Restaurant.com - 2012 Top Rated Restaurant. 

Visit the Orchard Inn at orchardinn.com. They are located on Highway 176, Saluda, NC. 

Wine Tasting March 6th 4 to 6 in the Grill- featuring Noble Wines with Allen from Empire Distributing.   

Shop Local: Special for March -Black Angus Beef Tenderloin and Hormel All Natural Deli Meats.

We Feature Local Made Products: Wildflour Bread, Apple Mill, ButterCup Cottage, and our Thompson Store Products.

Historic Thompson Store, open Monday-Thursday 8am to 5:30pm, Friday and Saturday open to 6pm. 

Ward's Grill, open Monday-Friday, 7am to 3pm, Saturday, 6:30am to 3pm

The store and grill are located at 24 Main Street, Saluda, NC. Click here to visit the website.  Click here for directions. Phone is 828-749-2321.

Hours:

Tuesday-Saturday, 11am to 9pm

Sunday - Noon- 3pm

Daily specials:  $4.99

Tues. -  small chopped pork sandwich, slaw, tea or coke

Wed. - bowl of Smokehouse Chili or Brunswick Stew and drink.  

Thurs. - Black Angus Bacon Burger, FF, tea or coke

Fri. - 2 piglets, slaw, tea or coke

Pint Narragansett 1.50

Become a Facebook fan and you will receive specials and $$ dollar-off offers!

Contact Green River BBQ at 828-749-9892 for takeout orders or visit them at Green River BBQ.  Visit their Facebook page to get extra daily coupons!  

Green River BBQ is located at 131 Highway 176 West. Click here for directions.   

Wildflour Bake Shop  828-749-3356 

Wildflour Bakery  828-749-9224 

Check us out online at

wildflourbakerync.com for daily specials or use the good ol' fashion way...828-749-3356.   Keep up with specials on 

Meanwhile Friday Events for March

March 7:  Celebrate the return of Wildflour Bake Shop's Pizza Night!

Call ahead to take pizza home or stay and enjoy seeing friends and neighbors.  Wine & beer available and two new wines open for tasting, starting at 5 PM.   Our new hours begin in March and we will be open on Friday Night Pizza Nights until 9:00 PM.

March  14: St. Patrick's Day Beer Tasting (starting at 5 PM) Join us as we get ready for St. Patrick's Day with a beer tasting starting at 5 PM.

(No Green Beer!)  Order a pizza from Wildflour and try out new beers.  

March  21:  Lock Picking 101 and Wine Tasting (starting at 5 PM)

Bring that lock missing its key or the safe-box you cannot get open, and we will try to "pick" that lock!  Join the fun as we try to open locks, boxes and safes that have long ago lost their keys. We will have locks and keys of all sizes and tools on hand to try to learn to safely open stuck or broken locks.  Two new wines will be open for tasting.  

March  28:  Music Jam Session & Wine Tasting (starting at 5 PM)

Bring an instrument and join in the music or just sit back and listen.  Fun for all!   

Order pizza, pasta or salad at Wildflour, sit on the porch (weather permitting) or come inside the Meanwhile shop to enjoy the music. 

Wine by the glass and beer available &  new wines open for tasting.  

Meanwhile New Hours for spring:   *Now open seven days a week*

Open 11 AM till 6 PM  Mon., Tues., Wed, Thurs., & Saturday

Open 11 AM till 9 PM Friday  for Wildflour Pizza Night

Open 11 AM till 5 PM Sunday

Call us (749-9463) and we will stay later or meet you earlier.  

We now have Wildflour Bake Shop bread and pastries on Monday and Tuesday.  We also carry Organic Free-Range Eggs, Vineyard's Edge Cheese and Pesto & Tapenade by special order.  Give us four days notice to have Pesto/Tapenade ready. High Valley Farms is on site Saturday from 12 noon till 2 PM with greens, eggs and other fresh produce.  We are adding new locally made small-batch specialty foods weekly. We also have home-made soaps, cedar soap dishes and natural deodorants made right here in Saluda by Mother and Son Soaps.  Stop by and see what is new.

Meanwhile is located next to Wildflour Bake Shop and The Gardener's Cottage in Nostalgia Courtyard. 

171 East Main Street, Saluda, NC 

Wine Shop Phone:   828-749-9463

email:   meanwhilewineshop@gmail.com   

See us on .  

Nostalgia Courtyard March Merriment

March into Spring like a Mad Hatter

Come visit our shops and hear the chatter

Something new every week

Come sit a spell and rest your feet

Eggs, plants, seeds and cards

Cheese, cakes and flowers for your yard

Wine, beer, soap and tea

Something for you and something for me

Brass pots, plates, bulbs and vines

Cookies, scones and a great time

Good friends, food and fun - no worries

We are open late on Friday, so no hurry!  

Friday night fun is about to begin

Wildflour Pizza is back again!

Wine, dine, skip & play

Come see us every day!

March 7th, Friday, Wildflour Pizza Night Returns!   

~ The Shops at Nostalgia Courtyard ~

Mobile Capture Coming Soon to Macon Bank

We know you live busy lives, and Macon Bank strives to make your life easier.  That is why we are proud to announce the next product we will be offering, Mobile Capture.  Mobile Capture is a safe, secure way of depositing checks into your account using your smartphone.  Utilizing the existing Macon Bank Mobile Banking app and your phone's camera, you can deposit checks simply by taking a picture.  In order to use Mobile Capture, you have to request that this feature be activated on your Mobile Banking account.

Once the feature is activated, the process is simple.  After opening the Macon Bank App, choose the deposit option, and then enter the amount of the check.  In the next step, you will be directed to take a picture of the front, then back of the check.  The check will be processed overnight and once approved, your money will post to your account.  The image is securely transmitted and won't be saved to your phone.  You will be able to use the App to see the transaction history of deposits made with Mobile Capture.

      

 

 

The Dressing Room, Etc. will open in late March, offering women's fashionable styles for all age groups and sizes, in a wide range of prices.  Irmy Chmieielewski is excited to bring her expertise in women's clothing to Saluda after managing several boutiques in Landrum, SC for a number of years.  Irmy will also offer accessories like purses, scarves, and jewelry.  She will also have stylish home accessories.  Irmy was born and raised in Germany and has been a US citizen since the 80's when she owned and operated restaurants in Myrtle Beach.  She managed local restaurants after moving to the mountains in 2002.  She is a chef and still continues her catering business. She will be open just in time to find those special Easter outfits!

 

The shop is located at E Main Street next to the Ryan-Boyles Antique shop.  You can reach Irmy at  

828-243-5007.  

 

THE GORGE™ zip line canopy tour and Green River Adventures are now taking reservations for the 2014 season that starts March 1. Reservations can be made online at thegorgezipline.com or greenriveradventures.com or by phone at 800.335.1530.

 

THE GORGE™, dubbed the steepest canopy on the east coast, allows participants to zip from tree based platform to tree based platform on over one mile of zip line cable through one of the last remaining groves of old growth forest in Western North Carolina.  Your feet never touch the ground!  With panoramic views from Mt. Pisgah to Rumbling bald, this very unique experience is a must do when you visit Saluda this year or have out of town guests looking for an adventure. The whole town is buzzing about this incredible addition to our booming outdoor recreation opportunities.

 

Has all this winter weather wrecked your roof? Not sure? Kirby Custom Builders is offering a free roof inspection and estimate on any needed repairs. We check the condition of your roof, including ventilation and flashing. Improper ventilation can decrease the warranty on your shingles and insufficient flashing can cause water damage. Call Todd Kirby for a consultation. 828-606-0942

 

 

Spring is coming and I am here to take care of any of your fencing needs, including, but not limited to: decorative fencing, farm fencing, dog runs, fence repairs, gate repairs, welding projects, and steel repairs.

 

Michael Nelson, Citadel Fence, 828-817-5483 

 

March is here and we are back in full swing at Tan-Tastic! Our summer hours are effective March 3. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 10 - 7. Wednesday and Friday 10-6 and Saturday 9 - 12. I know my family and I have been planning our summer vacations which puts me in the mood for a great tan! The weather has been a little crazy with the big snow storm we just had followed by many days of 50 and 60 degree weather. Well I know I am the first one to want to throw on a pair of shorts when we have a warm day and let me tell you it looks a lot better with some sun on my legs. So come on down to the salon and get started on your summer tan! Our regular beds with high pressure facial tanners are $30 a month plus tax. Our high intensity bed with 52 bulbs is $45 a month plus tax. We carry the best names in lotions and moisturizers. Our March special will be all lotions and moisturizers 25% off. We look forward to seeing you all soon!

 

Make your appointment now by calling 828-749-1000. Walk-ins accepted.   Located in Nostalgia Courtyard at 19 Pearson's Falls Rd. Follow us on 

 

What's new at the "Brew Depot"?

We are now offering that perfect snack to have with your favorite brew: Ruben pocket sandwiches, both vegetarian and with corned beef! Freshly handmade by our local Wildflour Bakery.

 

Come check us out and watch for our special events.

 

Did you ever think of having your own private party or meeting at the Brew Depot? Bachelorette party? Wedding or baby shower? Casual family reunion? We can handle it....even arrange for catering, photography, party favors, whatever you need!

Green River Brew Depot is located at 26 Church Street.  Please call Rima at 828-894-2242 or email rimomdancestonight@gmail.com for more information.

Several dear friends have been keeping the store open on the weekends so please drop in and say hello! I have great gifts and cards for your sweetie for Valentine's Day.  Since I will be "otherwise occupied" for a while, I have decided to sell the gallery. Already there has been interest!

Kathleen's Gallery is a profitable, turn-key retail shop. I have it set up to operate through my iPad.  Easy. There is maximum potential for internet marketing by showcasing local art and craft, offering two income opportunities.

Make new friends every day in this lovely tourist destination, Saluda, NC.

I am truly overcome by the outpouring of support. I cannot find words to thank you.

Call my husband, Bill Crowell, 828-859-9278 for information.  

66 E. Main Street, (828) 859-5063. 

Dear Saluda Neighbor,

You know what a difference having a Dollar General has made to our area.  SMC was the medical equivalent in the 1970s, saving residents winding drives up or down mountain roads to get medical assistance from area physicians and hospitals.  But like a commercial equivalent, it will only continue to exist if it is supported by its community.

So make SMC your local medical home, if it is not already.  If you also have a medical home elsewhere, have a copy of your medical records made available to the care providers at SMC so that they are ready to assess your medical needs whenever you set an appointment.  The local providers can handle your regular needs, such as injections, prescriptions, tests, and evaluations. SMC accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most all insurance policies.  Their telemedicine technology means medical specialists all over NC/SC are just a TV screen away to assess all your medical issues.  Since they are a NC Rural Health Center, low income residents are eligible for health care financial assistance.   The prescription assistance program also helps to cover the cost of medications for low income residents.   We are so fortunate to have such a fine organization here in Saluda to meet our health needs--over 3,000 patients are treated a year.

To provide all these services means that SMC needs top notch providers, equipment and facilities.  Any help you can give to achieve these goals can be donated by Pay Pal or credit card at web site or given directly to SMC.  This assistance would be appreciated by them and by your neighbors.  Since SMC is a 501(c)3 facility, your donations are tax deductible.

Sincerely yours,

Saluda Medical Center Board of Directors

Michael Kleiner, Chair

Saluda Faces recognizes Saluda citizens that you may see often and wonder who they are, what they do, and why they live or work in Saluda. If you would like to refer someone for Saluda Faces, please email info@saludalifestyles.com. 

Saluda Faces will return in April featuring another Saluda resident. 

What are you waiting for?  Don't put if off any longer.  It's time to enter your application in Saluda's 11th annual Saluda Arts Festival.  Spaces are filling up fast!

Call for Artists 

SALUDA ARTS FESTIVAL

  Historic Downtown Saluda,  NC

Cultivating and promoting its heritage in the arts, the Saluda Business Association invites you to enter your work in the 11th annual Saluda Arts Festival, scheduled for May 17, 2014.  Showcasing fine arts and crafts from local and regional artists, the Saluda Arts Festival draws thousands of spring tourists visiting Western North Carolina.  

Exhibit Fee:  $60 

Entry Deadline:  March 15, 2014

For more information, please contact Susie Welsh at 828-749-3900, sswelsh@tds.net or Catherine Ross at 828-749-3534, carnc@charter.net. 

Click here to download application.

Visit saluda.com to see more information about the Saluda Arts Festival.

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Stoney Lamar, the festival's music coordinator, has lined up performing artists that guarantee to keep McCreery Park Pavilion jazzed up and hopping throughout the afternoon. The festival is pleased to announce its headliners for the 11th annual Saluda Arts Festival.

The Deluge 

The band will be playing at the Purple Onion on March 15.

The Danberry's

The festival welcomes back The Danberry's whose folk/bluegrass/Americana musicianship has attendees at the 2012 arts festival spell bound and wanting more.  Drawing deep from the blues, folk, bluegrass and soul/funk traditions, the Danberrys deliver inspired original tunes featuring strong harmonies and dynamic musicianship.  

 

Their new full length album offers 11 tracks that are all very relevant and diverse at the same time.

 

The Danberry's will be playing at the Purple Onion in March.   

  

Sweet Claudette

Sweet Claudette's captivating sound is powered by 4- and 6-part harmonies, Motown-inspired backup vocals, and an unusual combo of acoustic instruments: cello, banjo, melodica and guitar. Multicolored kazoos sometimes make a brief appearance as well.  The buzz about the band centers on their live shows. Every performance is a collaborative, energetic and hugely entertaining event. Band members pass the instruments around and switch leads, cracking up the crowd and one another.  

Gorgeous harmonies, outstanding musicianship and world-class songwriting are the qualities that set Sweet Claudette apart from the crowd. What's more, they are very proud to be the only Country/Motown band they've ever heard of. With humor, warmth and consummate musicality, the ladies of Sweet Claudette hope to continue charming the pants off audiences for many years to come.

Visit saluda.com for more information about the Saluda Arts Festival.

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Calling Volunteers Who Want to Have Fun!  Volunteering for the Saluda Arts Festival is fun, and you get to make a lot of new friends.  We need volunteers for two-hour shifts to be greeters, area leaders, to clean up before and after and to man the children's tent. Please contact Patty Martin at 828-817-9518 or Denise Kennedy at carolinacottage@tds.net.

2014 Saluda Arts Festival Sponsorships

Without sponsorships, we would not be able to offer the same quality event for which we are recognized. We are grateful to all our sponsors that contribute funds that support the art culture and history in Saluda.

If you would like to be a sponsor of this year's festival, please contribute by April 15.  Sponsorships can be made to Saluda Business Association and mailed to PO Box 1085, Saluda, NC 28773. You will be recognized on a "Sponsor Banner" that will be on display during the festival.  Here are sponsorship categories: Bronze-$50 or less, Silver-$100, Gold - $250. With contributions of more than $250, a special banner will be made for you and placed in a highly visible area.  Sponsors are also recognized in our media releases and announcements.

We promote the festival within a two to four hour driving distance of Saluda. We advertise on two NPR public broadcasting stations, electronic boards, regional trade magazines, put up posters and appear on local TV spots.

We invite you to visit saluda.com and click on the Saluda Arts Festival to get more information and see images from previous events.

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The Saluda Business Association is proud to announce that it has received two grants in support of its 11^th annual Saluda Arts Festival.

Polk County Community Foundation's Saluda Fund Grant will support the musical entertainment at the 11th Annual Saluda Arts Festival.

The vision of the Polk County Community Foundation is to advance philanthropy and improve the quality of life for all citizens in Polk County, North Carolina and the surrounding area.  The mission of the Polk County Community Foundation is to:

*Support charitable and beneficial activities in the community
*Provide and administer a variety of planned giving programs
*Serve as responsible stewards of all funds entrusted to it
*Provide initiatives in recognizing areas of community needs and supporting solutions.

The Polk County Community Foundation can be contacted at 255 South Trade Street,
Tryon, North Carolina 28782, 828-859-5314, fax: 828-859-6122 email foundation@polkccf.org .

Grant from the NC Arts Council's Grassroots Arts Program.

The Saluda Arts Festival received a $500 grant through the Tryon Fine Arts Center which serves as the NC Arts Council's partner in awarding subgrants to local organizations for arts programs in Polk County. The first priority of the Grassroots Arts subgrant program is to provide operating or program support to qualified arts organizations including theaters, symphonies, galleries, art guilds, choral societies, dance companies, folk arts societies, writers groups and arts festivals, among others.

Visit saluda.com and click on the Saluda Arts Festival to get more information and see images from previous events.

Follow us on  

Suki McMinn, aka Susan McNabb, will be at The Book Shelf in Tryon, North Carolina, signing copies of her debut novel, Drop Dead Gorgeous, on Saturday, March 8 from 2-3:30 p.m.

Having grown up in Asheville, North Carolina, McMinn returned to the area to settle in Tryon after 27 years in Los Angeles. She and her husband are both graduates of Asheville High School, re-connected and married in their forties, and returned to life in the Blue Ridge Mountains in 2011.

"I'm so excited that my first book signing will be in Tryon," McMinn said. "We chose this wonderful little town to live in, not even realizing what a rich literary history it has. It's been home to many wonderful writers, and still is."

McMinn is a member of Tryon Writers as well as the North Carolina Writers Network, and often reads her work at Tryon's bimonthly Literary Open Stage. She's also a member and volunteer at Lanier Library in Tryon, publicity chair for the Tryon Garden Club, and active member of Tryon AAUW, Foothills Questers, Upstairs Artspace, and Tryon Arts and Crafts.

McMinn began writing as a second career after nearly three decades working as a model and commercial actor. Drop Dead Gorgeous is her first novel, an adult vampire romance set in L.A. in the modeling world, and Book One in her L.A. Vamps series.

"I write what I know," McMinn said. "Like my main character, I lived in L.A. and worked as a model, only I didn't bite anyone. In the L.A. Vamps series, I've created a nest of hunky male vampires who live and hide among humans, and in this first book, one happens to also be a supermodel. After being turned, he returns to his dream girl and his dream job, but it's not easy trying to fit into his former world now that he's undead, and his evil maker doesn't want to share him with anyone."

Drop Dead Gorgeous has debuted to impressive reviews, and earned a "5 kisses" rating on the romance review blog, "Read Our Lips," that called it "quick, fun, action-packed," and "a new, fresh take on vamps, filled with smut and suspense."

"I've been really overwhelmed with the positive response," McMinn said, "even though the book had an unusual release." Temptress Press initially published the ebook version of Drop Dead Gorgeous in December, 2013, but within days closed their doors, and so McMinn self-published the second edition and print version in January, 2014.

McMinn added, "I'm just so thrilled people are enjoying the book. I'm working on Book Two in the series now, Die Laughing, and hope to see its release this year."

Pearson's Falls' innovative new green restrooms are now open for use, and the unique building sports a living roof.

The green restroom project was first proposed at the Tryon Garden Club's strategic planning meeting in the summer of 2012. The club which owns and operates Pearson's Falls was looking for "a completely compostable toilet which leaves a very small footprint," according to project chair and former club president, Carol Meeske.

After much research, the club decided to use the Clivus Multrum composting system because it provides clean, sanitary, and accessible restrooms with minimal intrusion to Pearson's Fall's natural environment.

"I thought it was a wonderful idea" said Meeske. "It's in keeping with the Tryon Garden Club's mission of preserving, protecting and treasuring Pearson's Falls, setting by example what can be done to enhance our living in this community, providing an environmental educational opportunity." 

The living roof was added to the plan and incorporates plants native to the glen."What else would you put on a green restroom but a green roof?" explained Meeske.

What was Meeske's biggest challenge? "Educating myself and gaining knowledge about compostable toilets. I felt I had to know what we were doing and question everything." 

Meeske's hard work has paid off, as have the combined efforts of the Tryon Garden Club's members and contractors.

Grants from the Polk County Community Foundation were also instrumental in realizing the dream of the club which hopes their example will inspire other local and regional organizations and agencies to go green when considering public restroom facilities.

Pearson's Falls is listed on the North Carolina National Heritage Site of the Blue Ridge National Area, North Carolina Birding Trail Site and the Smithsonian Institute's Archives of American Gardens.

On April 13, 2014, the entrance to Pearson's Falls will be free from noon until 5:00 p.m.  There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the official opening of the new green restroom with a living roof at 2:00 p.m.

For more information contact:

Wyndy Morehead

wyndy.morehead@gmail.com

Tryon Garden Club

Pearson's Falls

2748 Pearson Falls Road

Saluda, NC 28733

828-749-3031

pearsonsfalls.org

Jerry's Baddle is a dual sport race that began in 2006 to honor a good friend, Jerry Beckwith, who had been diagnosed with ALS. The race was born out of a desire to keep his spirit and passion alive by raising money to help fight the disease that took his life and to foster the community he loved.  

The race consists of 4 miles of whitewater kayaking through the Green River Narrows followed by 26 miles of road cycling with 4000 ft of cumulative climbing.

Following the race, there will be a festival for all racers and spectators at Wilderness Cove Campground. All race fees include entry to the festival. For those not racing, a $20 festival fee covers music, food, and parking. There are men and women's shower houses available for racers to clean up.

The festival will start around 1:00 pm on Saturday, April 19 and continue into the night. There will be live music for most of the afternoon and evening. There should be plenty of food for racers and spectators.

For more information on how to register, route maps, rules, how to donate, and more, please click here.  

Wildnerness Cove Campground.  is located at 3772 Green River Cove Road, Saluda, NC 28773 (828)749-9100,  wildernesscove@tds.net.

 Click here for directions.   

Have you ever wanted to learn something truly special for this area?  The Pisgah Chapter of Trout Unlimited is holding its annual Fly Fishing School on Saturday, April 19,2014, from 8:30 am to 4:45 pm at Harmon Field in Tryon.

Students will receive not only a full day of practical instruction from experienced anglers covering the basics of fly fishing, including equipment, casting, line management and stream tactics, but they will also get a ½ day session of "hands on" learning on one of the area's trout rich rivers or streams. The combination of the classroom instruction and on-the-water guided practice makes this one of the most unique and economical fly fishing schools available in our area.

The cost of the school (which includes lunch on Saturday, the 19th) is $125 for adults and $75 for students (ages 12 to 18).  Equipment for the class will also be provided.  For more information or to register for the school, please visit the PCTU website at pisgahchaptertu.org.  Class size is limited.  Early registration is recommended. Deadline for registering is April 9.

All proceeds from the school help support Trout Unlimited educational and environmental programs in Western North Carolina.

Trout Unlimited is dedicated to the conservation, protection and restoration of coldwater fisheries and their watersheds in the Western North Carolina region.

Such a plethora of dollars, especially in a single man's pocket, almost mandated the purchase of a sleek new automobile as a way of publicly displaying his affluence to the general public and, more importantly, to help establish his bona fides among local single women.

An appealing choice for other local young men desiring to ascend the economic ladder was a bus ticket to Detroit where job opportunities in automobile manufacturing were abundant. Most had no desire to seek a career in the industry. The primary goal was to stay just long enough and earn enough to pay for a snazzy new car.  Employee discounts made the purchases in Detroit less costly for autos still fresh off the assembly line.

The return of one or more of these world travelers to Saluda from such a big city created awe in the eyes of youngsters like me. Watching them flaunt their new-found wealth as they tooled around town in brand new luxury cars was the genesis of my own dreams to get the heck out of Dodge and seek my own pot of gold. Later, as a teenager working part-time at the local Gulf Oil Station, I was impressed when one of those affluent drivers would stop for gas and say "fill 'er up." Even with gas prices around 19 cents per gallon at that time, most drivers limited their purchases to a dollar or two's worth at the most.

One young local man earning the big bucks at Adams-Millis in Tryon had a preference for the Oldsmobile 88 model of muscle car, built around one of the most powerful engines being turned out in Detroit at that time. He once told me that he only averaged about 5,000 miles on a set of tire treads due to his fast driving up and down the winding Highway 176 between Saluda and Tryon.

He faithfully had this car serviced and washed at the Gulf Oil Station, and I enjoyed taking care of it because it was a nicer vehicle than most of the clunkers I normally hoisted onto the rack or put a shammy cloth to.  At this point in my life, I had no driving experience other than sitting in my sister's '53 Chevy and pretending to drive while it was parked in our driveway.  Early one evening shortly before reaching my sixteenth birthday, and still with no driving experience, I completed an oil change and grease job on this fellow's car and stepped into the station to tell the him that his car was ready. A group of men were engrossed in a bull session so the owner asked me to remove his car from the rack and park it somewhere in the lot. Rather than admitting that I didn't know how to drive, I cautiously climbed into the driver's seat and cranked his beautiful Olds. While I knew how to place the gear shift into the reverse position, operating a manual clutch and gas pedal at the same time was way above my pay grade.

What followed was not at all pretty! As soon as I placed one heavy foot on the gas pedal and popped the clutch with the other, the car went screaming off the rack and out of the service bay like the flag start of a quarter-mile drag race. Instant terror took over my entire being but at least I had enough sense to turn the wheels to the right and avoid smashing into another vehicle parked near the gas pumps. The car's right front bumper slammed hard against the track holding the bay door, thus providing an instantaneous alert to the men inside that whatever was happening with this car was not normally recommended by the owner's service manual. After what seemed like eternity, I finally found the wherewithal to simultaneously jam both the clutch and brake pedals hard against the floorboard. Another three feet of backward travel and I would have broadsided another parked vehicle. Fortunately for me, the metal bumpers on cars back then were built to take some abuse so the only physical damage was to the track guiding the bay door. Actually, my pride suffered far more damage from subsequent commentary and laughter by the witnesses.

Not long after that event, I was once again working solo on a Sunday morning when an older bright red Cadillac bearing South Carolina tags stopped for gas. As part of the full service typically offered back then, I lifted the hood to check the radiator and the oil dip stick. The oil level was low and dirty so when I showed it to the driver, he asked if I could do a quick oil change since he planned to drive across the Smoky Mountains that day. I guided him onto the lift rack and proceeded to service the car as I had done many times before. However, during this process of changing the oil, I failed to adequately tighten the drain plug. Shortly after he drove away, I noticed a trail of several small oil spots on the concrete leading out to the highway. My limited knowledge led me to speculate that a bad engine seal might account for the leakage.

Later in the afternoon, that same Cadillac driver pulled back into the station with loud clicking sounds emanating from under the hood and asked me to once again put it on the rack for further inspection. As soon as the car was hoisted, it became obvious to both of us that oil had been slowly leaking from around the drain plug which I had failed to properly tighten. Unfortunately, his anger was only slightly ameliorated by my insistence that he would not have to pay for replacing the two quarts of lost oil and the promise of a free oil change should he ever decided to pass this way again. 

My own first vehicle was a used '51 Ford purchased for $300 in 1957 from a brother-in-law who had recently married my sister who owned the '53 Chevy. Prior to that time, she had allowed me to learn how to drive by using her car. That Ford car lasted me for several years until a fateful accident near Hendersonville where I found myself sandwiched between a stopped car attempting to make a left turn and a ten-wheel truck loaded to the gills with red potatoes. I can still see that monster truck with failed brakes suddenly looming in my rear view mirror at a speed estimated by police at 35 miles per hour. Unfortunately, the insurance company totaled out my car for the paltry sum of $350 even though I had done quite a bit of customization to make it look nicer.

Now I was in a real dilemma. Desperate for a new means of transportation and with the insurance money, I began a frantic search for another drivable car. After an exhausting search of used car lots around the region, I finally spotted a beautiful two-tone '55 Chevy in Greenville, South Carolina priced at $500.  I don't remember which family member loaned me the other $150, but the deal was consummated on the spot and I happily began the drive back to Saluda. However, it soon became obvious that this car was really a rolling smoke bomb. Apparently, the dealer had put some kind of additive in the crank case to temporarily limit the amount of smoke discharge so by the time I arrived back in Saluda the car was laying down a voluminous smoke screen. Having no other option, this vehicle continued to provide my transportation for the next several years. I attempted to deflect frequent comments by jokingly telling others that most of my stops involved adding a quart of oil rather than purchasing any gasoline.

Thompson's Store is located at 24 Main Street, in the heart of downtown Saluda.   Contact the store at 828-749-2321 or visit Thompson's Store online.