Friday, May 1, 2020


Ridge Spring Newsletter

I gave the wrong phone number for Rikard's Roadside BBQ.  It is 803.685.2211.  Sorry for the mix-up.

Juniper Restaurant: The Take What you Need Table was an idea that came out of two “side effects” of COVID-19, that we were seeing in the beginning. One “side effect” was our desire to continue to support our local farmer connections that we have developed over the years. These farmers keep our restaurant supplied with fresh local ingredients and rely on restaurants and farmers markets for their client base.  Many restaurants in the beginning were choosing to close completely versus switching to To-Go & curbside service, this created the situation where farmers had produce, but they didn’t have their established restaurant connections. The second “side-effect” was access. We heard stories about people being afraid to go into the grocery stores, and saw firsthand that, some of the grocery stores were having trouble keeping up with the demand. That got us really thinking about our immediate community in Ridge Spring. Even before COVID-19, in our 14 years we have regularly witnessed people picking up meals for the elderly and those limited by illness or disability. We decided to purchase our regular produce order and make it safely available to anyone who might need it.

That is how it started, but then it took a whole new, unexpected direction. When Jason Roland, of Organically Roland, brought our delivery the second week, he refused to accept our payment and donated the whole order; as did Jeremy Fallaw of Monetta Asparagus.  The following week we were contacted by Adluh in Columbia;  they brought us individually packaged Grits to add to our selection. Even our very own tellers at Security Federal brought us bags of dried beans and peas. Then, peach season arrived and with it Titan delivered cases of fresh peaches! The response has been amazing!!

To get the word out we have utilized the help of Harriet’s Column, Josianna Rodgers, and social media support to let people know that if you need some help it is here for you.

We have had people pop their heads in a say “Thank you, this really helps!”. We have gotten a thumbs up from the table. We even had one person who was able to donate money for the produce they needed. Last week, we had the head of Christ Central in Saluda bring us some dried items that they had a surplus of in exchange for some fresh peaches. Everyone has been respectful of the table and of each other!  We are so thankful to everyone who has helped us to make this a success; if you find your gardens bursting with tomatoes, blueberries, or squash and you want to add to the table, let us know. Thank you!!


ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY
We are missing everyone and looking forward to opening the art center back up as soon as the Governor deems safe. Our teachers are just awaiting the go-ahead! So, we have several classes that you can sign up for now! Then when things are back on track we can notify you when the classes can be scheduled. We have a Garden Lantern pottery class taught by Kim Ruff, Bowl Turning classes by Nick Watson and Exercise Classes by Marlene Sides.
For the pottery or bowl turning classes contact Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or email at joanne.crouch26@gmail.com.
For the exercise classes call Marlene Sides at (706)829-4924 or email her at Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com


Ridge Spring-Monetta High School
BAND SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

            The RS-M Band Class of 2020 is one of the largest classes of band members to graduate from Ridge Spring-Monetta High School in the last 20 years.  The True Blue Marching Band had eight Senior band members and one graduating Junior.  Courtney Pearl Maguire was the Drum Major for the marching band and a trombone player and former colorguard member.  She plans to attend Aiken Technical College and major in Radiologic Technology.  Woodwind Captain Joanna Kaiser played piccolo, flute, oboe, and saxophone.  She will attend Aiken Tech to obtain certification to become a paramedic and eventually Newberry College to major in Music Education.  Brass Captain Jonathan Cumbee played trumpet and will attend Pacific Luther University in Washington.  He received the PLU Presidential Scholarship and plans to major in Communications and Music Theory.  Kandon Hastings played trumpet in the band and will serve our country in the United States Marine Corps.  Makayla Lee played trumpet and mellophone and will attend Newberry College, where she received a choral and marching band scholarship.  She will major in Music Theater.  Symia Wilson was Colorguard Captain in the marching band and played clarinet in the concert band.  She plans to pursue a career in health and / or criminal justice.  Lacy Pou was Colorguard Co-Captain and she will serve our country in the United States Marine Corps.  Graduating Junior Zachary Truesdale played saxophone and will attend Lincoln Tech in Tennessee to become an heavy equipment mechanic.  Percussion Captain Christian Key will pursue a career in music.
            There were also four Seniors who participated in concert band but not in marching band.  Alisha Brooks will attend Benedict College and major in Psychology.  Conner Goss, Rickey Long, and William Luarca all played trumpet and participated in marching band at some point while at RS-M but only participated in concert band their Senior year.  At this point we do not have information about their plans after high school.  Mr. Clamp would like to thank this great group of seniors for many years of hard work and dedication to the Ridge Spring-Monetta Band Program.

Harriet's Garden Tips: When planting in your old pots look at the soil to see if it has pulled away from the sides.  Mine had pulled away due to just sitting there for months.  I broke up the top layer but decided to see what it looked like lower in the pot.  I really needed to break up the soil all the way down.  I did and I also added a layer of new soil and mixed them up.  Add a little slow release fertilizer and away I go putting in those glorious annuals.  Annuals have more blooms than perennials for they have a shorter life span.  Perennials do not bloom as much for the opposite reason.  Mixing them in flower beds is wonderful but difficult in pots.  Do enjoy our short spring for I feel the heat of summer coming faster each year.

Monday, April 6, 2020


RIDGE SPRING UPDATES
APRIL 6, 2020
Although I have stopped doing the RS News column for the papers I thought that I could send you an update in the form of a newsletter.  Please feel free to send me anything you would like the community to know or call me.  If a few of you want me to mail this to you call me 803.480.1207.  At one time I was sending all of you on the same email.  Google froze me out for some reason.  So now I send the same letter out to three different groups which totals 120 emails.  Can add anyone, too.

Please take the census survey.  I went on line and it took me less than 10 minutes.  I could not believe it was so easy.  The questions were simple.  This will help us all the way around-Federal and State benefits as well as number of elected officials.  If you did not get a survey form through the mail, go to this web site:  my2020census.gov
Town Hall had to close the lobby.  To pay your bill send check, pay on line or drop it in the box that is in the door.  If you need to pay in cash, place it in an envelope and drop it in the box.   If you do not have correct change, go ahead and leave it anyway. The extra money will be added as credit to your next bill.

Ann Hughs: Saw our first hummingbird Sunday.  For years they have always come back the last week in March.

The Ridge spring Cat clinic for April has been cancelled.

Ridge Spring United Methodist Church:  Pastor Ashely has found a conference call number so we can talk to each other, share, and she can do an abbreviated message. Going to start that this week. 
While I am on Face Book personally I am trying to make more phone calls and hear voices. Did a couple 3 on Monday after and it did me good and I think the other people as well.
 We are seeing more golf carts around Town.  Ride a social distance but get out. Seeing adults riding bikes…
Our church hasn’t decided what to do as far as the Big Red Box for April. Will let you know. Will be delivering Easter egg hunt items to Helpful Hands this week. They are not doing an event prior to Easter but he said something after.
 The Farmer’s Market shed is really starting to look like a shed. Wow!

Ridge Hill Baptist Church is choosing to observe the recommendations of the civil authorities and healthcare professionals; so, we will not congregate in April. At this time, we are urging everyone to practice all the safety measures that are being recommended.
From a spiritual perspective, we are encouraging Believers to use this time for personal introspection, reflection, prayers, mutual encouragement, and rest. We have not yet begun to engage in mass media ministry via social media as many have. 
We are trying to hear what The Lord is saying to us as a nation, to His Church in general, to Ridge Hill in particular, and to each of us. My prayerful hope is that through introspection, reflection, and prayers we will better discern God's will and pursue it in a more consistent, focused, deliberate, and purposeful manner.As a local church, we will continue to stay close by personal communication, prayers, and mutual  encouragement.


Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.  Our schedule for Easter Sunday will be a drive-in style of worship at 10:00 am at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.  We encourage you to come and stay in your car with your windows rolled down.  The band and I will lead our Easter Worship Service from the front steps of our church.  This should be an amazing Easter Service.  It will be one that we will never forget.  So let’s invite a friend and come celebrate our Risen Savior on April 12, 2020.  It’s going to be a blast.  Pastor Vollie Gibbs

Mt. Alpha may be closed for month of April.

Ridge Spring Baptist Church building  is closed but not the congregation.  Pastor John Chambers will hold Easter service on line at 11:00 AM  Sunday.  It will be live.  Go to Ridge Spring Baptist Church facebook page, like, and you will have access to the service.  Wednesday evening there will be service at 6:00 PM taped.  Other events such as the Easter Egg Hunt has been cancelled.
Now to the restaurants, BBQ, and cafes, they are open for drive through or pick up food. Cone's Meat, Dollar General, The Nut House, RS Convenience Store, and the gas station.  Banks Drugs is available.   Juniper, the Blue Canoe, Miguelitos, and the Nut House have menus on line facebook and web sites as well as phone numbers.  Blue Canoe does have breakfast with great coffee.
Blue Canoe 803.685.2583
Juniper 803.685.7547
Miguelitos 803.685.0050
Rikard's BBQ  803.685.2211
You can shop on line too.  Check out Haley Bee's Boutique, the Nut House, Cones and more.  Ridge Spring is still alive, just taking a break and slowing down.

Please follow the guide lines about staying away from people yet still contact your friends, family, and others via phone, something called zoom, I think, and enjoy nature.  (I did learn how to do facetime.) We will survive this too.

Harriet's Garden Tips: Has that garden been plowed?  They are talking about Victory Gardens like during World War II. Vegetable seeds are very popular and I have already started planting herbs in my flower pots.  My husband always planted on or after Good Friday.  Fresh vegetables are really the best.  Maybe you can grow some tomatoes this year too.

Monday, March 23, 2020


March 23, 2020
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder
We recently treated a patient at Ridge Spring Family Practice who was later tested at Lexington Medical Center and found to be positive for COVID-19. In compliance with the CDC guidelines for healthcare workers, we are restricting our staff from coming into the office for 14 days. After consultation with DHEC, we have already contacted any patients that may have come into contact with the affected patient.
We have routed the phones to another of our sites so that we can continue to respond to your questions and needs. We have staff available to take your call and, where possible, are happy to assist you with possibly being seen at another one of our locations. We are also working with our pharmacy to help ensure seamless access to prescriptions you may be needing. For all patient questions or concerns, please call 803-685-3100. We plan to reopen this office on April 1.
From HH: We are all concerned about the Corona virus.  Number one rule is to wash your hands thoroughly.  The goal is for 20 seconds so it has been suggested to sing Happy Birthday.  I tried it and finished the song in 10 seconds.  So I have learned to sing Happy Birthday almost twice.   I was planning to go on a European River Cruise in April.  The trip has been postponed.  One suggestion I learned from my sister-in-law, make sure when you make reservations at hotels or such, they have a cancellation policy.
I am also on facebook.  My goal is to post at least 3 humorous posts each day for as long as I can.  So far, I have been fortunate to meet my own quota for four days in a row.  Denise from Ridge Antiques and Dry Goods has been posting some great ones.  Did you hear of the person in Walgreens cussing out a person with a shopping cart full of Toilet Paper.  When the person finally took a breath the cart pusher said, "maam,  I'm trying to restock the shelves."  Summerville, SC was on the ABC National news this morning  for giving out rolls of toilet paper and not tickets.
The Art Association of Ridge Spring has decided in the best interest of our community and its individuals to cancel all classes and to remain closed for the rest of the month of March. We will be contacting those who had signed up for classes during the month of March to make arrangements for future dates. We hope this does not inconvenience any one too much. We look forward to opening our doors again and hosting classes as soon as we are assured that it will be safe for the general public. Thank you for your understanding.

The Blue Canoe that is in the old Bank building is taking advantage of the drive through windo to get the best cup of coffee around. Check out its menu, too.  Enjoy
RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Welcome to Spring!
 Ridge Spring United Methodist Church (RSUMC) during the month of March will be collecting items for an Easter Egg Hunt. The Big Red Box (BRB) will be hungry for candy, plastic eggs and other fun Easter items.  RSUMC is on Face Book. Find us, like us and keep up with what is going on.   There will be NO Church Service March 29, 2020.

Josie Rodgers
My only thoughts on the pandemic: get educated, stop panicking, take precautions, be patient, use your common sense. My students have been studying Brutus’ and Mark Antony’s speeches in Julius Caesar and learning about ethos, pathos, and logos. They can’t believe how easily and quickly the mob was swayed by each speaker and the chaos that ensued shortly thereafter. Sound familiar?

Camp Gravatt News: During this time of uncertainty and fear, please know that our Gravatt family is constantly lifted up in prayers of protection and peace. Our staff is closely monitoring the updates concerning the spread of COVID-19. All decisions made will be in the best interest of our campers, guests, and staff. In the mean time, please look over our procedures and policies to minimize exposure AT Gravatt on our website (linked below). If you have any questions regarding camp programming, please contact Camp Director Danielle Steger at danielle@campgravatt.org. Health and safety is Gravatt’s number one priority at this time. As always, remember those affected in your thoughts and prayers, as we fight this thing together as one Body of Christ.

Review from David Marshall James:  :  "The Holdout" by Graham Moore
   The sleeper hit of 2020 is bounding out of bed while the year is young:  A murder-mystery/legal thriller that will have book clubs dashing out the dishes and dialing up the dialogue, with ethical issues abounding.
   Novelist and Academy Award-winning screenwriter Graham Moore sets the stage in Los Angeles with the ten-year, reality-TV-extravaganza reunion of a jury that turned in a hotly debated (during and after the trial) verdict in a sensational trial involving a young, black male defendant and a 15-year-old daughter of a billionaire.
   Because one crusading juror, Maya Seale, swayed all the doubting Thomas's and Thomasina's of the jury-- much like Henry Fonda in the film "Twelve Angry Men"-- and because one disgruntled juror, Rick Leonard, called her out after the trial (and even went on to write a book, in which he blasted her all over again), sparks are expected to fly on that reality-TV reunion.
   On, how the sparks flew during the months Maya and Rick were sequestered with the others, but for different reasons.  All this toxic personal history makes Maya-- the Fonda figure, Hank not Jane-- all the more determined to skip the televised gathering.  Yet Rick ambushes her one month before the reunion, claiming that he has unearthed proof that the defendant in the trial, Bobby Nock, murdered the teenage Jessica Silver, a student at the private school where Bobby, originally from Virginia, was teaching.
   Rick informs Maya that he's saving the big reveal for the TV cameras.  Furthermore, she has since become a successful L.A. defense attorney, and her boss believes Maya will generate boffo biz for their firm if she reunites with her eleven compatriots of yore, regardless of how much she'd like to bail on the event.
   While the author presents his case, the reader may wonder:  Where is this headed?      The first plot twist heralds the procession of many to come, with some biggies stacking up toward the finish.  And why bother with a trial without witnesses?  It's positively un-American.  Make that un-Constitutional. We want to see the lady with the shapely gams, clad in black, her face covered by the veil on her hat, take the stand to deliver enriched-uranium testimony.  (Bonus points if you remember that pop-cultural showstopper from the 1980s.)
   No spoilers on any of the many page-stoppers and jaw droppers that red-pepper this novel.  Plus, plenty of sidebars-for-thought unscroll, concerning the grinding wheels of American jurisprudence.  Above all, how fickle was the fate that drew Maya, Rick, and the ten other jurors (plus three alternates) together to determine the future of an alleged murderer?  The simple act of jury compliance transforms way more than one-dozen lives, a perverse catalyst that wields its seismic power in this surprise standout novel of the New Year.

Harriet's Garden Tips: This is a good time to start those seeds for this summer.  This year I am going to plant daylilies among or by my beautiful daffodils.  Those daffodils are so beautiful but once they have bloomed, you have to wait such a long time for those leaves to die down.  It takes forever.  I always want to cut them back too soon.  So If the daylilies are near them, their foliage should help cover up the ugly leaves of the daffodils.  It just might work.  We have two sources of daylilies in Ridge Spring.  By June we should have them for sale at the Farmers' Market too.

   REMINDERS
May 16: Magnolia Ridge Antique & Art Gathering
Jeannette Carr Memorial: 864.656.5896, www.clemson.edu/isupportcu, Jeannette        Carr Memorial, Annual Giving Office, 110 Daniel Drive, Clemson, SC 29631
Ridge Spring Library Hours: Mon. Tues. 9:00 - 12:00; Wed. Thurs. Closed;
            Fri. 10:00 - 4:00; Sat. 10:00 - 1:00.
Ridge Spring Post Office hours:  Mon-Fri. 7:30 am – 11:30 am; Sat 9 – 10 am
Recycling Center Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 1-7; Sat 7-7; Sun 3-7; Tues/Thurs closed
Fridays & Saturdays:  AARS hours 10:00-2:00 or by appt, free admission
Every first Thursday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783
Third Thursday: FORS at Town Hall at 5:30 PM
Second Tuesday: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival

Monday, March 16, 2020


March 16, 2020
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder
The Town of Ridge Spring was decorated with quilts and more quilts.  Quilts of history, old, new, and just quilts that need to be seen.  They were in shops, the Civic Center and the Art Center .  They were even up on walls of buildings as part of the quilt trail.  There even was a scavenger hunt among the shops and the Art Center.  The Art Center will begin a quilting awareness program year-round.
Always around St. Patrick's time the peach trees bloom.  How wonderful.
We are all concerned about the Corona virus.  Number one rule is to wash your hands thoroughly.  The goal is for 20 seconds so it has been suggested to sing Happy Birthday.  I tried it and finished the song in 10 seconds.  So I have learned to sing Happy Birthday almost twice.   I was planning to go on a European River Cruise in April.  The trip has been postponed.  One suggestion I learned from my sister-in-law, make sure when you make reservations at hotels or such, they have a cancellation policy.
ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY Quilting on the Ridge occurred Friday March 13th and Saturday March 14th.  The quilts on display around town were beautiful and reminded  us of the past and the present.
Pottery Classes Monday, March 16, 2020 Garden Lantern Time: 6:30 pm Cost: $35.00 Instructor: Kim Ruff To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center.
 Bowl Turning Class Saturday, March 21 1:00 PM – 3 PM *UPDATE*- CLASS FULL! Saturday, March 28 1:00 PM – 3 PM Instructor: Nick Watson Cost: $80 Includes all supplies. Session will be held in front of the Art Center of Ridge Spring in Nick’s travel workshop. To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center.
Pen Turning Class Monday, April 12 Cost: $35.00 Each class is 1 ½ hours at Larry’s home workshop. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.
Exercise Class Get a new spring in your step with our made-for-your-needs exercise classes! Marlene Sides, RN, CES is the instructor. She is a NASM certified personal fitness trainer and Registered Nurse. Equipment for strengthening exercises provided. Drop-ins welcome! Every Tuesday and Thursday there will be a 4pm, 5pm and 6pm class. Come join in! Fee: $5 per session Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.
Remember May 16, we have the Magnolia Ridge Antique and Art Gathering.  Carter and I will have our first batch of fresh boiled peanuts.  Don’t miss this wonderful event beneath the beautiful magnolia and oak trees on this lovely horse farm.
RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Welcome to Spring!
 Ridge Spring United Methodist Church (RSUMC) during the month of March will be collecting items for an Easter Egg Hunt. The Big Red Box (BRB) will be hungry for candy, plastic eggs and other fun Easter items. If you would like to participate, leave your donation on either the porch of the Church or the Family Life Center (FLC) and a member will make Sure your donations makes it to the BRB. We will deliver donations to Helpful Hands Ministry prior to their Annual Easter Egg Event.
 Pastor Ashley is taking us through the Lenten Season with meaningful messages and music. If you have not heard her sing and/or her messages you are missing out. Service at 11 a.m. We will save you a seat.
 RSUMC is on Face Book. Find us, like us and keep up with what is going on.
 There will be NO Church Service March 29, 2020.

Josie Rodgers
My only thoughts on the pandemic: get educated, stop panicking, take precautions, be patient, use your common sense. My students have been studying Brutus’ and Mark Antony’s speeches in Julius Caesar and learning about ethos, pathos, and logos. They can’t believe how easily and quickly the mob was swayed by each speaker and the chaos that ensued shortly thereafter. Sound familiar?
My little River Man turns 6 years old this week! He is growing and learning all the time! I love when he reads to me! Last week, we talked about all of my names: Josie, Josianna, Jo, Joey, JoJo, Nana, Mom, Mama, etc. I asked him first what my real name was, and he replied, “Jose!” Yes, that is one of my nicknames bestowed upon me by Annalee’s friends when someone thought my personalized tote said Jose instead of Josie. And yes, I answer to it! I actually had a science teacher in 8th grade who called me Jose just to be funny!
RSM Elem: On Sat., Mar. 28, the PTO will sponsor a Spring Craft Fair and Yard Sale from 9 am to 2 pm. Spaces are $15. If you would like to register for a space or find out more, contact Kristine Sasser at ksasser@acpsd.net or 803/479-0883. RS-M Elementary students who shop on Mar. 28 will have a chance to win 1 of 4 zoo passes!
Yearbooks are being sold only through treering.com and will not be available to purchase at school. Through treering.com, you can customize two pages for free if you purchase a yearbook before May 4! Yearbooks purchased by May 4 will be shipped to the school with no added shipping cost to you and given to your student during the school day by the end of May. Use the validation code below to order your standard or custom yearbook today, starting at $22 for softcover and $28.95 for hardcover! Validation code is 1014410540564413.
RSM High: Coaches Johnson and Johnson are excited to kick off the first season of boys’ volleyball. We are having fun learning and competing against each other. The Trojans were set to open up at RSM High this week with a tri-match vs Wagener-Salley and Richland-Northeast. However, with the recent suspension of athletics, that event must happen at a later date.

Review from David Marshall James:  "The Museum of Desire" by Jonathan Kellerman
   Jonathan Kellerman has cruised the pages of his "Funk & What-All's" deluxe dictionary of Los Angeles for his 35th Alex Delaware novel, what the "Glibster's Guide to Modern Fiction" would term a police procedural, although Delaware is a doctor of psychology, not a cop.
   However, he consults with singular sensation Lt. Milo Sturgis of the LAPD, a detective who satiates his ongoing affair with bakery boxes and whatever's du jour in Dr. D's fridge.
   Best believe that with his, and Alex's, current case, the LT-- as his team detectives at the PD affectionately refer to him-- is plowing through the pastries like Little Debbie in a Maserati.  Sara Lee in a Lamborghini.  Sister Schubert on a Harley.
   By the by, among Kellerman's cast of characters is a most unexpected and somewhat unlikely nun.  Well, the city was founded as a mission.
   The case involves not a simple murder, but a murder tableau, with four victims who constitute a most puzzling assemblage, so Milo and Dr. D are having the three a.m. heebie-jeebies trying to get a bead on how they connect.
   It's a story that offers the author the opportunity to ply his piece de resistance:  Creating a large, diverse cast of L.A. habitues.  The narrative also affords Kellerman ample interludes in which to reflect on the locale's culture.
   Fortunately, the LT can restrict the particulars of the murder tableau from the media.  Yet, when another homicide occurs in a crowd well-armed with camera phones, you might well think, with all the ensuing pandemonium, that space aliens had landed, and all the Sasquatches have come out of the woods to greet them.
   Lest the grotesqueries overwhem the novel, Kellerman allows for running humorous commentary from the LT.  Primed with his most-anti-L.A. diet of sugar and carbohydrates and sliced pastrami (please don't trim the fat), Sturgis can deliver a punch line to match his waistline.
   Kellerman may be the best writer of police procedurals on today's shelves.  A longtime resident of the City of Angels, and a psychologist himself, he infuses his novels with a verity bolstered by a fluidity developed over the course of his prodigious output, dating back to the 1980s.  And let's not forget the "Funk & What-All's."  Pass the pastries, LT.

Harriet's Garden Tips: This is the last chance to plant trees. Remember to use Epsom Salts this spring. For sick-looking azaleas try giving them a dose of 6 tbsp. salts to 1 gal of water.  To discourage rabbits, sprinkle the salts on the ground.  To encourage berries on hollies, work salts (1 cup) into the ground around them in spring and water well.   After march 15, fertilize the whole garden.  In our area, the last frost date is April.

   REMINDERS
May 16: Magnolia Ridge Antique & Art Gathering
Jeannette Carr Memorial: 864.656.5896, www.clemson.edu/isupportcu, Jeannette        Carr Memorial, Annual Giving Office, 110 Daniel Drive, Clemson, SC 29631
Ridge Spring Library Hours: Mon. Tues. 9:00 - 12:00; Wed. Thurs. Closed;
            Fri. 10:00 - 4:00; Sat. 10:00 - 1:00.
Ridge Spring Post Office hours:  Mon-Fri. 7:30 am – 11:30 am; Sat 9 – 10 am
Recycling Center Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 1-7; Sat 7-7; Sun 3-7; Tues/Thurs closed
Fridays & Saturdays:  AARS hours 10:00-2:00 or by appt, free admission
Every first Thursday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783
Third Thursday: FORS at Town Hall at 5:30 PM
Second Tuesday: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival

Monday, March 9, 2020


March 9, 2020
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder
Quilting on the Ridge
March 13and 14
Come enjoy the weekend in Ridge Spring, SC while exploring the history of collection of area quilts. Start the day at the Art Center where $5 gift bags are available which contains a raffle ticket for a quilt, rack cards for areas of interest, and a fabric swatch. Vintage quilts will be available for view. Each will contain its history whenever available. Visitors can also view the art of local artists. Visitors are also welcome to visit the RS Civic Center where vendors will offer wares that are quilt related.
Remember May 16, we have the Magnolia Ridge Antique and Art Gathering.  The Festivities start at 9:00 and go through 3:00. The vendors will be back with a wonderful variety of collectables.  Sausage biscuits, hamburgers, chips and baked goods sold on sight. Don’t miss this wonderful event beneath the beautiful magnolia and oak trees on this lovely horse farm.
ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY Quilting on the Ridge is almost here! We will have quilts all over town, gift bags for sale with lots of great goodies, vendors and get yourself a raffle ticket for a chance for a beautiful quilt that could be yours! We are open Friday and Saturday 10 am to 2 pm for you to see our art and sign up for classes. You can also check out what’s new on Facebook or our website at http://ridgespringlovesart.weebly.com .
Check out all of our classes that are coming up!
Pen Turning Class Monday, March 9 Cost: $35.00 Monday, April 12 Cost: $35.00 Each class is 1 ½ hours at Larry’s home workshop. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.
Pottery Classes Monday, March 16, 2020 Garden Lantern Time: 6:30 pm Cost: $35.00 Instructor: Kim Ruff To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center. Bowl Turning Class Saturday, March 21 1:00 PM – 3 PM *UPDATE*- CLASS FULL! Saturday, March 28 1:00 PM – 3 PM Instructor: Nick Watson Cost: $80 Includes all supplies. Session will be held in front of the Art Center of Ridge Spring in Nick’s travel workshop. To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center.
Exercise Class Marlene’s classes are growing! Come join in on our exercise classes, they are lots of fun and are fine-tuned to your health needs! Marlene Sides, RN, CES is the instructor. She is a NASM certified personal fitness trainer and Registered Nurse. Equipment for strengthening exercises provided. Drop-ins welcome! Every Tuesday and Thursday there will be a 4pm, 5pm and 6pm class. Come join in! Fee: $5 per session Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

I apologize.  Somehow I received this message and did not recheck to see if it was still in the works.  This will not occur The Ridge Hill Educational Association, in collaboration with Ridge Spring-Monetta High School and Morris College, did NOT invite anyone to participate in an educational information and College opportunity event on Saturday, March 31st .  Again I do apologize., my mistake.

I worked with Laura Walker , Jody Daily, and others at the Cat Clinic Monday.  We had more than the set number of 25, but they were all fixed.  I think it was 31 cats.  What a  humane way to take care of an overpopulated animal.  The next  Cat Clinic will be at the end of April.  You must call and reserve a spot if  you are interested in getting your cat fixed.  There will be a charge.  Please call Town Hall.

Jeffrey Clamp, Band Director for RSM Middle/High: The Aiken All-County Band Clinic was held on Thursday, March 5th at Millbrook Baptist Church in Aiken.  This year nine students from Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle and High Schools earned a spot in one of the clinic bands.  This is the most students to represent RS-M in one year at the clinic, which features the best band students from all of the middle and high schools in Aiken County.  Junior Concert Band members from RS-M were Natalie Maltese (1st chair clarinet), Cassandra Oakman (clarinet), Maryann Sterling (clarinet), Jarvis Bush (trombone), and Bennie Padgett (trombone).  Landon Hastings was 2nd chair alto sax and Chris Story 1st chair Bari Sax in the Junior Symphonic Band.  Kyla Padgett (clarinet) and Chesley Cooper (trumpet) represented RS-M in the Senior Band.  The students spent the entire day rehearsing with their respective bands, and the clinic ended with an outstanding concert presented by the three clinic bands.  Congratulations to these students for their hard work this year

Josie Rodgers
Congratulations to PC freshman Davis Wash, the new Orangeburg Queen of Roses! Davis earned $2,000 in scholarship money. Davis is the daughter of Matt & Melanie Wash of Edgefield.
RSM Elem: On Sat., Mar. 28, the PTO will sponsor a Spring Craft Fair and Yard Sale from 9 am to 2 pm. Spaces are $15. If you would like to register for a space or find out more, contact Kristine Sasser at ksasser@acpsd.net or 803/479-0883.
Last Friday, the school held a Book Parade to celebrate literacy and Read Across America Week. Favorite books included There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, The Moon Book, and a myriad of Dr. Seuss books.
RSM High: In celebration of Dr. Suess’s birthday Mar. 2 and of Read Across America Week, several Beta Club and NEHS members traveled to the RSM Elem and read Dr. Seuss books to various classes. With the assistance of media center specialist Tonya Rodgers, the high school students ventured around the school to share their love of reading with the younger folks. Readers included Audrey Derrick, Destiny Glover, Courtney Lee, Kenyon Ligons, & Lacy Pou.
The RSM Teacher Cadets are immersed in their field experience this week. They are remembering what it was like to be a middle schooler (which was only a few years ago!) and how to respond from a teacher’s perspective. Soon they will be assisting with teaching and tutoring and learning about all the extra tasks required of teachers.
The Lady Patriots softball team competed in the Greenwood Christian Tournament this past weekend. They played Dixie, Wardlaw, and King. Though they didn’t win, they gained lots of experience to be ready for the season!  
Next Wed is the state-wide tornado drill at 9 am. With our recent experiences of neighbors losing schools and homes and lives, it is essential that we be prepared for such circumstances. There is no true “safe place” during a tornado, but there are actions we can take lessen the risk. Flying debris is the number 1 danger during a tornado, so stay away from windows.

Review from David Marshall James:  "Treason" by Stuart Woods
   It's been more than a decade since last we adventured with Stone Barrington, he of Turtle Bay (New York City), Paris, the South of England, and Maine.
   Stone's home-hopping is rendered more felicitous with his latest acquisition, a G 500.  It's the only way to fly, unless you've got something larger with more bells and whistles, say a G 600, as does the Russian oligarch who looms large, figuratively and literally, over the action in Stone's latest story.
   But, as in the Russian's big one, the G 600 was acquired with ill-gotten gains.  Stone, on the other hand, made his money the old-fashioned way:  In the stock market.  But, as in Stone's Men's Health variety, first he was an NYPD officer, then an attorney, and now's he's a deputy with the CIA.
   Plus, no Ivy League-ing for Mr. B; rather, he's earned his degrees from NYU, figuring out his life's plan as he goes. 
   His Intelligence work has brought him vis-a-vis the oligarch, name of Chekhov, who has ten times more than Michael Bloomberg's wealth, although he's not investing his rubles in elections.  Well, at least not in Mother Russia.  He's all ears to a mole in the U.S. State Department, currently headed by Stone's friend-with-benefits, Holly Barker.
   She further connects Stone to the world of movers, shakers, and policy makers, as does his BFF, Dino Franchetti, NYC police commissioner.
   Stuart Woods, the author of more than three-score novels, sends Stone (with his plus-one of the moment) and Dino (with his wife, Viv) flying high to such locales as Paris and Martha's Vineyard (to Mr. B's yacht).  Yes, the protag-never-marked-down lives luxe-ly, as Woods drops us off at one glamorous eatery after another, from NYC to Paris.
   Still, Stone's a simple guy at heart, his favorite luncheon consisting of lobster salad accompanied by a fine white Burgundy.  Coconut cake-- flown in from The Peninsula Grill in Charleston-- for dessert.  If he must dine in at his Turtle Bay townhouse, there's a cook on staff, along with a secretary and a chauffeur.
   Stone's A-number-one lifestyle makes for indulgent reading, bolstered by au courant topics within the framework of Woods' fiction.  For instance, his U.S. commander-in-chief is a Madam President.  Moreover, Holly is seeking to fill that post.  Keep an eye peeled on that Chekhov, girlfriend.

Harriet's Garden Tips: Many of the tips I give I get from several sources.  So here are a few:
1. plant garlic buds near rose bushes and the roses will develop resistance to black spot and mildew.
2. Water geraniums with beer to make sensational plants.
3. Feed boxwoods with cottonseed meal or lawn fertilizer. Do not scratch in for the shallow roots may be damaged.
4. Put one cupful of lime around each clematis vine and on ivy (Really!!! Ivy loves to take over.)
5. Put your wood ashes around your peonies and hostas.

   REMINDERS
March 13-14: Quilting on the Ridge
May 16: Magnolia Ridge Antique & Art Gathering
Jeannette Carr Memorial: 864.656.5896, www.clemson.edu/isupportcu, Jeannette        Carr Memorial, Annual Giving Office, 110 Daniel Drive, Clemson, SC 29631
Ridge Spring Library Hours: Mon. Tues. 9:00 - 12:00; Wed. Thurs. Closed;
            Fri. 10:00 - 4:00; Sat. 10:00 - 1:00.
Ridge Spring Post Office hours:  Mon-Fri. 7:30 am – 11:30 am; Sat 9 – 10 am
Recycling Center Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 1-7; Sat 7-7; Sun 3-7; Tues/Thurs closed
Fridays & Saturdays:  AARS hours 10:00-2:00 or by appt, free admission
Every first Thursday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783
Third Thursday: FORS at Town Hall at 5:30 PM
Second Tuesday: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival

Monday, March 2, 2020


March 2, 2020
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder
Quilting on the Ridge
March 13and 14
Come enjoy the weekend in Ridge Spring, SC while exploring the history of collection of area quilts. Start the day at the Art Center where $5 gift bags are available which contains a raffle ticket for a quilt, rack cards for areas of interest, and a fabric swatch. Vintage quilts will be available for view. Each will contain its history whenever available. Visitors can also view the art of local artists. Visitors are also welcome to visit the RS Civic Center where vendors will offer wares that are quilt related. You may become a vendor for $25 for 10 x 10 spot. Antique quilts will be on display in other stores downtown.
Downtown Ridge Spring had those unique flower beds that held beautiful crepe myrtles for several years.  Over the years several of the crepe myrtles disappeared but the flower beds stayed and took up valuable parking spaces.  The town has continued to grow with new businesses.  Well, they are now gone.  The Main Street looks wide and clean.  You still have to parallel park on Main Street, but it is looking great.
Ridge Spring Monetta High School and Elementary School had a ground breaking and dedication February 24, 2020.Two alumni for the 1959 class got to participate in the groundbreaking, Cort and Lona Proctor.  I may have the date wrong but they were in the second class to finish at the "New" now old RSM.  Dr. Sean Foster, Pastor Peter Blacks, Mrs. Sandra Shealey, Mrs. Callie Herlong, Dr. KaRon Webb, Keith Liner, and Mr. King Laurance spoke.  It was rainy but all smiles with a sense of success by all..  The event was in appreciation to voters who approved the Educational Capital Improvements Sales and Use Tax in November 2014.
Jeffrey Clamp, On February 21 - 22 two students represented the RS-M Band program at the SCBDA Region Two Honor Band Clinic.  Eighth grader Landon Hastings and Sophomore Kyla Padgett earned this honor through their auditions in January.  Their selection signifies that they are among the best from all schools in the following counties:  Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Edgefield, Greenwood, Lexington 1, 2, 3, 4, Lexington/Richland 5, McCormick, and Saluda.  As you can see it is quite an honor to be selected considering the number of outstanding schools in those counties.  Congratulations Landon and Kyla! 

ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY
Ridge Spring is a small town with lots of BIG things happening! Our downtown is being updated and the changes already look wonderful. We have events and fun things to do, such as Quilting on the Ridge coming up on March 13 and 14. Plus, our Art Center has beautiful art and lots of great classes! We are open Friday and Saturday 10 am to 2 pm for you to see our art and sign up for classes. You can also check out what’s new on Facebook or our website at http://ridgespringlovesart.weebly.com
Pen Turning Class Monday, March 9, 2020 Cost: $35.00 Each class is 1 ½ hours at Larry’s home workshop. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.
Pottery Classes Monday, March 16, 2020 Garden Lantern Time: 6:30 pm Cost: $35.00 Instructor: Kim Ruff To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center.
Bowl Turning Class Saturday, March 21 1:00 PM – 3 PM – Sign up NOW, classes fill up quickly! Instructor: Nick Watson Cost: $80 Includes all supplies. Session will be held in front of the Art Center of Ridge Spring in Nick’s travel workshop. To sign up: Message Joanne Crouch at (803) 480-0576 or by email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or stop by the Art Center.
Exercise Class: Come join in on our exercise classes, they are lots of fun and are fine-tuned to your health needs! Marlene Sides, RN, CES is the instructor. She is a NASM certified personal fitness trainer and Registered Nurse. Equipment for strengthening exercises provided. Drop-ins welcome! Every Tuesday and Thursday there will be a 4pm, 5pm and 6pm class. Come join in! Fee: $5 per session Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com} or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: February the Big Red Box is collecting soup and other non-perishable food items. These will be delivered at the end of the month to a local ministry, Helpful Hands. If you would like to help out, leave your donation on the porch of either the Church of Family Life Center.  Pastor Ashley returned safely from her Mission Trip. So much to share. We are working on a Sunday for her presentation. Will keep you posted. RSUMC is on Face Book. Visit our page.

Still Waters Baptist Church REVIVAL With Roger Clark (In the Potter’s Hand) You’ll be glad you came!!  Friday, March 13. 6:30 pm; Saturday, March 14.   6:30 pm; Sunday. March 15 10:00 am. Still Waters Baptist Church, 374 Delmar Rd., Leesville, SC.  29070.
Two miles from the traffic circle

Josie Rodgers
RSM Elem: On Sat., Mar. 28, the PTO will sponsor a Spring Craft Fair and Yard Sale from 9 am to 2 pm. Spaces are $15. If you would like to register for a space or find out more, contact Kristine Sasser at ksasser@acpsd.net or 803/479-0883
Review from David Marshall James:  "Name Drop:  The Really Good Celebrity Stories I Usually Only Tell at Happy Hour" by Ross Mathews
   With his 20 years on talk shows, infotainment reports, and reality programming, Ross Mathews has emerged, like Venus rising from under a Craft Services table, as the television love child of Paul Lynde and Wayland Flowers.
   (Which causes us to ponder:  It's high dang time for another reboot of "Hollywood Squares," with RM in the Center Square-- one can almost hear the Lyndean wisecracks and comebacks, the Flowersian cackle.  Plus, RM modeling the latest in faux fur from Dicker & Dicker of Beverly Hills.)
   In his latest book (the first being the memoir "Man Up!"), RM recounts Celebrity Encounters of the Third Kind.  Sadly, a few sore-thumb-out as Celebrity Encounters of the Merde Kind (read:  Elizabeth Taylor, Barbara Walters, and "Friends" Matt LeBlanc and Matthew Perry, although LeBlanc offered a heartfelt mea culpa for his inconsideration some years later).
   Thankfully, the Celebs-with-Heart win the day:  Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Rosie O'Donnell, Jason Priestley, and Jackie Collins among them.
   RM, a regular hot-spot dinner companion of the late La Collins, remembers our favorite Hollywood tittle-tattler, whom we recall from a vintage People magazine spread, graciously showing off her gleaming Spago-esque kitchen and sharing her dinner-party meatloaf recipe, featuring Lipton Onion Soup Mix.
   Gotta love a soup-mix maven. Hard to beat the retrolicious spinach/sour cream/Knorr vegetable soup mix dip.  Some people serve this with crudites.  Mais non-- we head directly for the Fritos:  C'est tres magnifique.
   Speaking of retrolicious hors d'oeuvre recipes, RM serves one up with each chapter as a "Rossipe," along with instructions on mixing a proper cocktail.
   After all, the whole vibe of this book is you're sharing cocktails and canapes and delicious dish with RM at a happenin' happy hour.  Indeed, that would make a tres-fab premise for a chat show:  "Sip 'n' Share with Ross," to include a cooking spot for the hors d'oeuvres.
   Still and all, we're eagerly awaiting the latest incarnation of "Hollywood Squares."  Can't you imagine the possible theme shows?  "Real Housewives" (BTW:  Ross's Brandi Glanville chapter is a hooter), "Boy Bands of Yore," "Million-Dollar Listers," "Truly Horrifying Politicians," "Vintage Sitcommers," "Primo Politicians" (that includes you, Sean Patrick Maloney), and many another mind boggler.
   Be sure to fight for that Center Square, Ross.  Papa Paul would be proud.

Harriet's Garden Tips: Do you have moss growing in your lawn?  If so, this means you need fertilizer, or that the drainage is pour.  Give mossy spots extra fertilizer, and check drainage carefully. 
If evergreens have not been pruned, do get it done by the end of the month.  This must be done before new growth starts. 
Sweet peas may be planted this month.  Did a deep trench, add compost and dehydrated manure.  Next add good garden loam, mix with a small amount of ground limestone.  Plant the seeds 6 inches deep, cover with 2 or 3 inches of soil. As the plants grow fill in around them until the earth is level.  Be sure to thin plants if crowded.  I have tried sweet peas, and I just planted them in good soil.  Do it either way, but  just try something new.

   REMINDERS
March 13-14: Quilting on the Ridge
May 16: Magnolia Ridge Antique & Art Gathering
Jeannette Carr Memorial: 864.656.5896, www.clemson.edu/isupportcu, Jeannette        Carr Memorial, Annual Giving Office, 110 Daniel Drive, Clemson, SC 29631
Ridge Spring Library Hours: Mon. Tues. 9:00 - 12:00; Wed. Thurs. Closed;
            Fri. 10:00 - 4:00; Sat. 10:00 - 1:00.
Ridge Spring Post Office hours:  Mon-Fri. 7:30 am – 11:30 am; Sat 9 – 10 am
Recycling Center Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 1-7; Sat 7-7; Sun 3-7; Tues/Thurs closed
Fridays & Saturdays:  AARS hours 10:00-2:00 or by appt, free admission
Every first Thursday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783
Third Thursday: FORS at Town Hall at 5:30 PM
Second Tuesday: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival