Monday, June 29, 2015

June 29, 2015
Ridge Spring News

Ridge Spring Farmers’ Market: We had 8 vendors but the food was plentiful and the there was plenty of variety.  Some of the items available were string beans, peaches, corn, butterbeans, crowder peas, squash (several varieties) tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and several varieties of peppers, home-baked goods, and fresh milk.  The milk has to be ordered in advance (more about that later).  Samantha had flavored honey sticks that I did not get a chance to taste but I had three grandchildren with me helping and we ate breakfast at the market with fresh muffins.  Don’t forget daylilies and boiled peanuts.  At least five vendors will be there Saturday so come by and get your Fourth of July veggies and fruit for that celebration meal. 
Noel Steele: I am looking for people that make children clothes and other items. We are looking into opening a handmade children's store. If you would like your Handmade Items to be considered please message me. If you know someone that might be interested please share this message with them. The shops name is Nonies Hand-Made Children’s Clothing and Accessories. Call me at 803.609.7152
Samantha McClure: Ridge Spring Baptist Church had a wonderful turnout June 22-25, 2015. We started the week with 64 in attendance and ended it with 83 in attendance. Six children were presented with a Bible. Children discovered God's Plan was “To Be with us, to Save us and to Love us Forever”.  They learned how sin separates us from God, how Jesus transforms us and how showing love to others can start a chain reaction. Supper was served each night. Everyone is excited to see what next year brings.
Lee Ann Perez, One Ash Farm and Dairy-We are taking pre-orders for milk to be picked up at the Ridge Spring market. We will be there on Saturday from 10-11:30.  If you would like to pick up/pay for milk at that time please call us at (803) 649-9172.  We will also have baked goods and our wonderful apothecary items at the market.  Hope to see you there and have a blessed week!

I feel a need to repeat what I wrote last week about the tragedy: The horrible tragedy that occurred at Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston has had the opposite affect the murderer wanted.  Instead of hate, it has brought so many together.  I pray for the love and forgiveness to continue and that this will help us all come together. 

Josie Rodgers: Please keep Shaun Steele in your prayers, also.  Shaun is married to Alex Stone Steele, and they have a precious little girl, Harper Quinn.  Alex is Leagrace’s caregiver and is very special to our family.  Shaun is fighting colon cancer and has completed chemo and radiation and will have surgery next week.  He will be in the hospital about 10 days and out of work about 3 months.  A raffle ticket fundraiser is being held be friends and family to help offset the cost of medical bills and living expenses.  Tickets are only $1.00.  Prizes include a 60” flat screen TV, a Yeti cooler, a Cody Webb package, Webb Photography $100 gift certificate, vehicle oil change at Stone’s Service Center, gift certificate to Coffee Shop Wine Stop, $50 gift card to HT Hackney Cash & Carry in Newberry, 1-hour massage at Calm Rivers Massage, a basket of hair products from Tangles, 3 ten-minute aqua massages from B-L Spine, a free class for a year ($500 value), T-shirt, and $25 shoe credit at Central Carolina Performing Arts Center.  Drawing will be held Aug. 1 @ 2 pm at CCPAC.  You do not need to be present to win.  Help support this wonderful family!

Book Review from David Marshall James:
Would The Algonquin Hotel in New York City go to seed after World War II?  Its famed “Round Table” had already gone the way of King Arthur’s, and the twelve-story landmark on 44th Street, in the heart of the Broadway theater district, needed some major fixing-upping.  Enter neophyte hoteliers Ben and Mary Bodne of Charleston, S.C., with Southern accents thicker than the cheesecake at Lindy’s.  The Bodnes’ hands-on, meet-and-greet, personal-touch style ensured that The Algonquin’s glory days were not just reserved for the past, but also for the present and yet-to-come. 
In “The Algonquin Kid,” the eldest of their three grandsons, Michael Elihu Colby, remembers life at the hotel, where his grandparents resided full-time on the tenth floor.  Writers for all media still favored the hotel, and not just for lunch in the Rose Room or drinks at the Blue Bar.  William Faulkner composed his Nobel Prize acceptance speech while staying in an Algonquin suite (oh, to have been a housekeeper emptying the wastebaskets of draft sheets; then again, Faulkner probably didn’t require revisions).  Fellow Mississippian and Pulitzer Prize winner Eudora Welty made the hotel her home-away-from-home during her frequent trips to the city.  Indeed, her home state could have well lost her during the early 1930s, when she was attending graduate school at Columbia University, had not her father died unexpectedly.
Can you imagine walking down a hotel hall and hearing Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner working out the scores for “My Fair Lady,” then later “Camelot”?  The songwriting team preferred to check into the hotel, for weeks at a time, when they were down-to-the-piano-wires on their shows.  The hotel gladly supplied that piano.
The Bodnes remained close friends with Sen. Ernest Hollings, who attended the author’s bar mitzvah in 1964.  Later that day, following the celebratory party, Hollings escorted the family to a nearby town where Robert Kennedy was stumping in his bid for the U.S. Senate.  The group sat behind Kennedy during his speech.  Talk about a memorable day—and Colby recalls many others from his family’s four decades of ownership of the much-storied Algonquin Hotel. (PS: I had to go on the internet to see what the web site for the Algonquin Hotel looked like.  It looks beautiful.)
Callie Herlong: Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary School Registration Dates are as follows:
August 11, 2015: 9:00 am-4:00 pm
August 12, 2015:   12 noon-6:00 pm
Location: RSM Elementary Gym

Bus Registration:
July 29: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
July 30: 1:00-5:00 pm
Location:    RSM M/H School Cafeteria

Saluda County Library Summer Reading Program 2015
Come by the library to sign up for summer reading or sign up at our website starting June 1st! www.youseemore.com/saluda There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults!
Friday, July 10th, 11 a.m.

Greg Zelnik performs “Amazing Magic Man” sharing his adventurous and patriotic story to find his superhero sidekick, the loveable and adorable basset hound MAGIC-Dog.

Joe Cal Watson: The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday, August first.  All descendants of John or William are invited to attend.  If you plan to be here, please let me know so your name will be in the pot.
FYI:  Two phone scams are going around.  One says that you are near arrest from the IRS for back taxes.  We have received this call three times.  Please ignore.  The IRS would not call you.  They mail letters to you.  Do not give any personal information over the phone with either scam. 

Reminders:
July 14: Harvest Festival Meeting
July 16: FORS Meeting
Aug. 1: Watson Reunion
Sept. 17: Harvest Festival BINGO
Sept. 19: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival
Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wed., 12:30 – 4:30; Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,
Every 2nd & 4th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 
Every 2nd Monday:  RSM Elem PTO meets at 6:30 pm in the media center. 
Every Friday & Saturday:  AARS hours 10 – 4 or by appt, free admission
RSM Elementary Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
RSM High Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
Wardlaw Academy Summer hours:  Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am – noon

King Academy Summer hours:  Mon – Fri 9 am - 1 pm or by appointment

Monday, June 22, 2015

June 22, 2015
Ridge Spring News

The horrible tragedy that occurred at Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston has had the opposite affect the murderer wanted.  Instead of hate, it has brought so many together.  I pray for the love and forgiveness to continue and that this will help us all to come together.  At our Ridge Spring Fire Station and our Post Office, the flags were at half mast.  It was so appropriate and a show of unity and love.

Hope you are enjoying the Ridge Spring Farmers’ Market.  There is nothing like getting fresh fruits, vegetables and home-baked goods.  We have over 8 vendors with a variety of produce as well as flowers and fresh boiled peanuts.  There will be corn, peaches, cantaloupe, watermelon, tomatoes, Crowder peas, peppers, fresh bread and much more.  We start selling somewhere around 7:30 until lunch.  The Market is on the Square and many of our vendors can accept vouchers.

Sunday morning we had fresh cantaloupe from the market with toast made from fresh bread that I had purchased at the market. Now I just need to get the jelly.

The Friends of Ridge Spring met Thursday night at Cumbee Place. We are beginning to make plans for the Harvest Festival BINGO!!!! The future looks bright for our town.  Keep coming and keep shopping with us.

Harvest Festival Committee is making plans.  Soon we will be asking for donations for BINGO, too.  This year we are asking earlier than ever because the Harvest Festival has been moved to September 17-19.  Bingo is a big part of the festival and without the support of all the communities it would be nothing.  Thank you for your wonderful support over the years and let’s make this one the best ever!!!!!!

Mae-Ann Webb will be competing in The Miss South Carolina Pageant June 23 through 27 at the Township Auditorium in Columbia SC. She is Miss York. Watch live on WACH 57 at 8:00 PM on Saturday June 27th and follow her on her facebook page or www.miss-sc.org

The Saluda Senior Center is distributing vouchers from 9:00 to 2:00.  The Center is at 403 W. Butler Ave. next to Longs Drugs.  The sign outside s says Saluda County Council on Aging.

Lee Ann Perez, One Ash Farm and Dairy-We are taking pre-orders for milk to be picked up at the Ridge Spring market. We will be there on Saturday from 10-11:30.  If you would like to pick up/pay for milk at that time please call us at (803) 649-9172.  We will also have baked goods and our wonderful apothecary items at the market.  Hope to see you there and have a blessed week!

Jeff Clamp: The 2015 True Blue Marching Band will begin practice on Monday, June 29th. We will practice Monday through Thursday that week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EXCEPT on Tuesday. We will practice from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day and will have a REQUIRED parent meeting at 6:15 p.m. If you have any questions please feel free to email or call Mr. Jeff Clamp at RS-M High School.

Callie Herlong: Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary School Registration Dates are as follows:
August 11, 2015: 9:00 am-4:00 pm
August 12, 2015:   12 noon-6:00 pm
Location: RSM Elementary Gym

Bus Registration:
July 29: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
July 30: 1:00-5:00 pm
Location:    RSM M/H School Cafeteria

Barbara Yon: The Art Association of Ridge Spring, SC is offering a Polymer Clay Workshop on June 27th, 9 a-1 p; The Workshop will be taught by Artist/Instructor Candace Bush.  Participants will learn the basic tools and techniques used to condition, sheet, cane and mold polymer clay.  Polymer Clay is a brilliantly colored synthetic molding compound that is compatible with many other art and craft materials. When kneaded by hand it becomes quite malleable but becomes extremely hard when baked in a clay or home oven.  The ancient Japanese metalworking technique Mokume Gane will be introduced (using polymer clay) and used to create a beautiful pendant with an interesting and unique layered surface design. This workshop is one of many polymer clay workshops Candace hopes to teach during the Fall season at The Art Association.  Come explore and experiment with this wonderful medium!  Workshop Fee: $35.00(materials incl.)  Ages 12+
RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH:
The month of June donations for the Big Red Box go to Helpful Hands, a local Mission serving the citizens of Ridge Spring and surrounding areas. This month we are collecting personal hygiene items: soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste as well as dish detergent. If you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the Family Life Center or with Jim Campbell at Ridge Auto. The Big Red Box also needs: coloring books, crayons, stickers books, and other indoor activity items suitable for young children. Let’s fill’er up! The Family Life Center (FLC) can be rented for meetings, showers, family reunions and wedding receptions. If you would like to preview the facility or needed further information, please contact John Kneece. Don’t forget the prayer box is located on the porch of the FLC. The box is checked and requests placed on the Sunday service pray list. Ridge Spring United Methodist Church has a Face Book page. Check us out, like us and keep up with the activities of this small but vibrant congregation.  Church Service is at 11 a.m. Sundays unless otherwise noted. Join us.

The Young Adult Ministry of Ridge Hill Baptist Church Held the 7th Annual Family Fun Day and Community Cookout on the grounds of the Ridge Hill Baptist Church in Ridge Spring on Saturday June 20th

Saluda County Library Summer Reading Program 2015
Come by the library to sign up for summer reading or sign up at our website starting June 1st! www.youseemore.com/saluda There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults!
Thursday, June 25th, 10 a.m. Bright Star Children’s Theatre presents “Captain Friendship and the Bully Bandit.” A superhero themed show empowers young people with tools to stop a bully.

Joe Cal Watson: The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday, August first.  All descendants of John or William are invited to attend.  If you plan to be here, please let me know so your name will be in the pot.

Reminders:
Aug. 1: Watson Reunion
Sept. 17: Harvest Festival BINGO
Sept. 19: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival
Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wed., 12:30 – 4:30; Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,
Every 2nd & 4th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 
Every 2nd Monday:  RSM Elem PTO meets at 6:30 pm in the media center. 
Every Friday & Saturday:  AARS hours 10 – 4 or by appt, free admission
RSM Elementary Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
RSM High Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
Wardlaw Academy Summer hours:  Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am – noon

King Academy Summer hours:  Mon – Fri 9 am - 1 pm or by appointment

Monday, June 15, 2015

June 15, 2015
Ridge Spring News

The voucher distribution went well but there were some snags and some were not able to get their vouchers because of the rules.  If you bring the correct information to the Saluda Senior Center they will give them to you. You need proof that you live in Saluda County, that you are at least 60 years old, and you have a certain income.  You can use your bank statement as proof of income.  They will give out vouchers beginning Tuesday from 9:00 to 2:00.  The Senior Center is at 403 W. Butler Ave. next to Longs Drugs.  The sign outside s says Saluda County Council on Aging.
We had our first Farmers’ Market on the square Saturday.  The produce was great and definitely FRESH!!! There were corn, lettuce, peaches, squash, peppers, cantaloupe, tomatoes, butter beans, crowder peas, fresh milk, bread, zucchini, and more.  Don’t forget the day lilies and boiled peanuts.  FORS who sponsors the Market also had sausage biscuits coffee and juice to open the market.  Perhaps we will do it again next year.
Miranda Brooks:  It’s that time again! The Young Adult Ministry of Ridge Hill Baptist Church announces The 7th Annual Family Fun Day and Community Cookout on the grounds of the Ridge Hill Baptist Church in Ridge Spring on Saturday June 20th from 11 am- 3 pm. All are invited to come and bring a grill, some food, your favorite chair, and a good attitude.  The event is being planned as a day to celebrate community life in Ridge Spring, promote harmony and goodwill, and share helpful information. The general public, all churches, local government leaders and representatives, civic, and service organizations as well as the business community are invited to come out and enjoy a day of food, fun, family, and festivities.
Arthur Kenner: Jerusalem Baptist Church will celebrate Men/Father's Day service Sunday, June 21st at 10:15 AM.  Rev. Preston Winkler will deliver the message and the Male Chorus will provide the music.  The public is invited to attend and celebrate Father's Day.  For additional information please call Deacon Arthur Kenner at 803-685-5453.
Off the Beaten Path had a wonderful birthday/ anniversary celebration on Saturday June 6 during Peachtree 23. Thanks to all the great old and new friends who came by.  If you are looking for a graduation gift, Father's Day, or wedding gift then be sure to come by and see our selection!  We also want to welcome Girly Girls Boutique to our selection! Joy has precious little girl dresses you just have to see. July 4thdresses already discounted and ties for the little man! We are open 10-5. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.
Lee Ann Perez, One Ash Farm And Dairy-We are just about finished with the green bean harvest- wow has it been great this year!  Our garden was plowed and prepared by our draft horse Mags and things are really growing well! Next up will be the hundreds of tomatoes that are starting to ripen. We love to make fresh pico de gallo salsa, enjoy them sliced on sandwiches, make homemade pasta and pizza sauce to can, and chop them up in our eggs and omelets.  But I do have to admit, we get a little impatient waiting on them to ripen on the vine and Fried Green Tomatoes are a real favorite.  Here's our easy recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes, and our sauce we like to top them with. (You can find all of our recipes on our blog-  at www.OneAshFarmAndDairy.com
Hope you enjoy and have a blessed week!

Fried Green Tomatoes from One Ash Farm Recipes

3 green medium size green tomatoes
2 cups Italian Seasoned bread crumbs (buy them already made)
2 eggs, beaten

Slice the tomatoes about 1/4" thick.  Dip them in the beaten egg. Press each slice into the bread crumbs, coating both sides. Dip them again in the egg, and coat them again with breadcrumbs.  Fry in medium-high hot vegetable oil until crispy and golden.  Drain on a paper towel covered tray before serving.  Makes about 12 slices.

Arugula Radish Topping from One Ash Farm Recipes

A handful of fresh arugula leaves (or parsley if you don't have arugula)
6-7 medium sized radishes
2 heaping tablespoons mayonnaise

Bunch up all of the arugula (or parsley) into a ball and chop it up. Dice the radishes.  Mix both together with the mayonnaise to make a thick topping.  Serve over warm fried green tomato

RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH:
The month of June donations for the Big Red Box go to Helpful Hands, a local Mission serving the citizens of Ridge Spring and surrounding areas. This month we are collecting personal hygiene items: soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste as well as dish detergent. If you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the Family Life Center or with Jim Campbell at Ridge Auto. The Big Red Box also needs: coloring books, crayons, stickers books, and other indoor activity items suitable for young children. Let’s fill’er up! The Family Life Center (FLC) can be rented for meetings, showers, family reunions and wedding receptions. If you would like to preview the facility or needed further information, please contact John Kneece. Don’t forget the prayer box is located on the porch of the FLC. The box is checked and requests placed on the Sunday service pray list. Ridge Spring United Methodist Church has a Face Book page. Check us out, like us and keep up with the activities of this small but vibrant congregation.  Church Service is at 11 a.m. Sundays unless otherwise noted. Join us.

Samantha McClure: Ridge Spring Baptist Church Vacation Bible School is titled SonSparks Lab 2015 and will be held June 22-25th. Come learn about Gods Plan4Us=JESUS. Supper will be served each night. Supper/registration starts at 5:30pm, fun starts at 6:00 pm and dismissal at 8:00 pm.  Ages 0-Adults are welcome. Adult Bible Study will be led by Pastor John Chambers. Come join us for an exciting week. For more information, please call or text Mrs. Samantha McClure 870-703-0778

Josie Rodgers: My dad had to have his other foot amputated Monday.  We hope that this will lead to a life of much less pain so that he can battle his cancer better. He is an amazingly strong man, and I am so proud of him for all that he has suffered.  His faith has never wavered, and neither has ours.  We praise God in whatever storms we face.
Youth Football and Cheerleading Camp, June 20, sponsored by Aiken native and New England Patriots’ Dakoda Watson.  The first 300 boys and 100 girls free! Each participant is asked to bring 5 can goods to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank. You can register online at www.kodaskids.org.  Other NFL players will be there and have autographs for each child. T-shirts and light snacks will be provided. For more information, please contact Angela Watson at 803/292-3830 or www.kodaskids.org
Add some math to your summer reading! Pick up your bedtime math log sheet at the library in Ridge Spring or Saluda! Put a star on each night you do a math problem! Earn a Frisbee when you turn it in before August 15, 2015. Prevent the summer math slide! Math will never be the same. (www.bedtimemath.org)
St. William Catholic Church in Ward will hold VBS July 27-31 with Crystal Cochran directing.  The theme is Hometown Nazareth: Where Jesus Was a Kid.  “Take kids back to Jesus' hometown of Nazareth, where they'll stand up for their faith among people who doubt that the carpenter's son is really God's son. Totally immerse children in ancient Bible times where they will hear stories about Jesus' childhood from the best source of all-his mother! They learn to relate to Jesus since he had a family (Luke 1), a name (Luke 2), a home (Matthew 2), he went to church (Luke 2:41-52), and served others (John 2).”


Come by the library to sign up for summer reading or sign up at our website starting June 1st! www.youseemore.com/saluda There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults!
Friday, June 19th, 11 a.m. Heroes I have known! Juggler Ron Anglin performs a comical and educational show.

Reminders:
June 5 & 6: peach Tree 23 Yard Sale
June 18: FORS Meeting
Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wed., 12:30 – 4:30; Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,
Every 2nd & 4th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 
Every 2nd Monday:  RSM Elem PTO meets at 6:30 pm in the media center. 
Every Friday & Saturday:  AARS hours 10 – 4 or by appt, free admission
RSM Elementary Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
RSM High Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
Wardlaw Academy Summer hours:  Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am – noon
King Academy Summer hours:  Mon – Fri 9 am - 1 pm or by appointment


Monday, June 8, 2015

June 7, 2015
Ridge Spring News

The Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale was a huge success.  How fortunate we are.  The two day event was great for all along the great highway 23!!!!!!
Pat Asbill: It was yard sale madness for both Friday and Saturday all along highway 23. Although Friday had fewer people, the vendors reported brisker sales than Saturday when the town was totally slammed with people. The town sold about 85 spaces and both Cumbee Place and The Watson House were full. It looked like yard sales were tucked in every open spot. Channel Six News from Augusta did a piece on the Yard Sale and Carolina Living Magazine took photos and did interviews for their August issue. We count this yard sale as a success.
Friends of Ridge Spring meet June 18th at Cumbee Place.  5:00 food is served and then we get down to business.  Please join us.
Now for the Farmers’ Market:  It begins this Saturday on the Ridge Spring Square. The Farmers Market Vouchers will be given out at the Gazebo in Ridge Spring, Saturday, June 13th, from 8:30 am to 10:00am.  The vouchers are $25.00 in $5.00 increments that can be used to get fresh fruits and vegetables at the market. There is an age and income limit.
At the Ridge Spring Famers’ Market I bet there will be tomatoes, peaches, string beans, and maybe watermelons, cantaloupes, and corn.  There will be my boiled peanuts too.  Beautiful flowering plants and more will be there.  The Perez family from One Ash Farm will be there.  Due to the milking schedule they will be there from about 10:00- noon Saturday and will be encouraging pre- orders for pick up at that time.
Bob Householder: American Legion Post 133 is sponsoring two local students at Boys State this year. William Bedenbaugh from Ridge Spring Monetta, and Wyatt McDonald from King Academy will attend the weeklong event being held at Anderson University, beginning June 7th. William is the son of Kelly and Terry Bedenbaugh, and Wyatt is the son of Shaylah and Barry McDonald.

Samantha McClure: Ridge Spring Baptist Church Vacation Bible School is titled SonSparks Lab 2015 and will be held June 22-25th. Come learn about Gods Plan4Us=JESUS. Supper will be served each night. Supper/registration starts at 5:30pm, fun starts at 6:00 pm and dismissal at 8:00 pm.  Ages 0-Adults are welcome. Adult Bible Study will be led by Pastor John Chambers. Come join us for an exciting week. For more information, please call or text Mrs. Samantha McClure 870-703-0778

The Carillon Bell Re-dedication Service in memory of D. S. Cone, Jr was held Sunday June 7th with Pastor John Chambers at Ridge Spring Baptist Church. Cody Webb sang a song he wrote about his grandpa. Susan Wheeler, Dallas Cone, Mildred and Converse Cone each had a part in the service. Amazing Grace was the first song played by the bells in praise of our Lord and in memory of D. S. Cone. Converse Cone wrote “Our family's heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped with the repairs & updating of the Carillon Bells with your generous gifts!”

Lee Ann Perez- One Ash Farm & Dairy: We are enjoying summer and that rain we got last week!  The gardens and pastures are growing like crazy. Our latest calf was born last week so we are thrilled with the new life that is running around the farm.  It's also time for summer markets and we are really looking forward to seeing everyone on the Ridge!  We will be at the Ridge Spring Farmers Market on Saturdays starting June 13.  To accommodate our milking schedule we will be at the market from 10 am until noon.  We will have a limited supply of milk at this market so we are encouraging pre-orders
to be picked up and paid at market.  If you would like to pre-order milk (either
gallon or 1/2 gallon size) to pick up at the RS Market, please call us by 
Friday noon at (803) 649-9172, email us at oneashfarmanddairy@gmail.com,
or message us on Facebook- our FB page name is One Ash Plantation.  Can't wait to see you there and have a blessed week!


RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH:
The month of June donations for the Big Red Box go to Helpful Hands, a local Mission serving the citizens of Ridge Spring and surrounding areas. This month we are collecting personal hygiene items: soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste as well as dish detergent. If you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the Family Life Center or with Jim Campbell at Ridge Auto. The Big Red Box also needs: coloring books, crayons, stickers books, and other indoor activity items suitable for young children. Let’s fill’er up!

The Family Life Center (FLC) can be rented for meetings, showers, family reunions and wedding receptions. If you would like to preview the facility or needed further information, please contact John Kneece. Don’t forget the prayer box is located on the porch of the FLC. The box is checked and requests placed on the Sunday service pray list. Ridge Spring United Methodist Church has a Face Book page. Check us out, like us and keep up with the activities of this small but vibrant congregation.  Church Service is at 11 a.m. Sundays unless otherwise noted. Join us.

Josie Rodgers
            Rooms are packed, books put away, red pens and pencils gone, and teachers and students can finally enjoy some much needed rest!  Many teachers have plans to travel, teach summer school, spend time with families, or just relax and get rejuvenated for next year.  Students will work, babysit, hang out by the pool, and catch up with old friends (and hopefully stay out of trouble!).
            The Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale was unbelievably hopping with vendors and shoppers!  Customers found absolutely anything they could imagine!  Aiden enjoyed searching for animals with his Nanny on Friday and his oldest sister on Saturday and found a stuffed mouse from the adorable series If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.  I’m still trying to talk him into giving the mouse to me!
            Last Friday evening, my family celebrated my dad’s 71st birthday with a low country boil prepared by my hubby and homemade chocolate cake baked by my mom (the Paula Deen of Ridge Spring!). 
            On Tues., June 16, Dorothea Benton Frank will be at Books-A-Million in Aiken promoting her latest novel All the Single Ladies.  She will be speaking, and answering questions, and signing books at 6:30 pm.  She is a phenomenal writer, and I recommend any of her books, especially The Hurricane Sisters.
            RSM Mid/High news:  Last Friday, we had to say good-bye to our beloved principal, Warren Wintrode.  Mr. Wintrode came in early in the year 3 years ago to replace an AP who took another job.  Shortly thereafter, he became our acting principal, and finally, our official principal.  Throughout the transition, he supported his staff and students and ran the school efficiently and professionally.  He fell in love with the Ridge and was dedicated to making sure each student was successful.  He is leaving us to return to the classroom in another district because it is in the classroom helping students where his heart is truly happy.  He will be missed dearly.
            Stepping into the principal position is a man familiar with the Ridge:  Mr. Kyle Blankenship.  Mr. Blankenship worked at RSM Elem before becoming an AP at Midland Valley.  His wife Leslie was a SPED teacher at RSM High until leaving for a position closer to home after they had their first child, Jon.  Earlier this year, they welcomed baby girl Jillian.  Mr. Blankenship was part of RSM’s graduation ceremony last week, and we welcome him to our Trojan family.
Youth Football and Cheerleading Camp, June 20, sponsored by Aiken native and New England Patriots’ Dakoda Watson.  The first 300 boys and 100 girls free! Each participant is asked to bring 5 can goods to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank. You can register online at www.kodaskids.org. The deadline is June 1. Other NFL players will be there and have autographs for each child. T-shirts and light snacks will be provided. For more information, please contact Angela Watson at 803/292-3830 or www.kodaskids.org
RSM Elem news (Rene Miller): Each child that participates in the school’s summer reading program will be rewarded with a ticket to a RSM varsity football game and a varsity basketball game. Information and reading log will also be available from our website.

Come by the library to sign up for summer reading or sign up at our website starting June 1st! www.youseemore.com/saluda There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults!
Summer Reading Events: Programs and events are FREE * All ages are invited All events are at the Saluda Theatre unless otherwise noted.   445-4500 x2264
Friday, June 5, 11 a.m. Super Hero Academy and Summer Reading Kickoff! Register for Summer reading! Make a mask! Get a Cape! Leap over Tall Buildings! Lift Boulders! Train to be a Super Hero! Pose for super cool pictures!
Wednesday, June 10th, 10 a.m. Story Ship presents “Super Me”, an anti-bullying superhero show that combines animation, puppetry, comedy theater, magic and music.
Friday, June 19th, 11 a.m. Heroes I have known! Juggler Ron Anglin performs a comical and educational show.
Thursday, June 25th, 10 a.m. Bright Star Children’s Theatre presents “Captain Friendship and the Bully Bandit.” A superhero themed show empowers young people with tools to stop a bully.
Reminders:
June 5 & 6: peach Tree 23 Yard Sale
June 18: FORS Meeting
Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wed., 12:30 – 4:30; Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,
Every 2nd & 4th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 
Every 2nd Monday:  RSM Elem PTO meets at 6:30 pm in the media center. 
Every Friday & Saturday:  AARS hours 10 – 4 or by appt, free admission
RSM Elementary Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
RSM High Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
Wardlaw Academy Summer hours:  Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am – noon
King Academy Summer hours:  Mon – Fri 9 am - 1 pm or by appointment

http://www.logostage.com/logos/Superman.png

Monday, June 1, 2015

June 1, 2015
Ridge Spring News

It Is Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale Time: It is time once again for the area’s longest yard sale of the year. The Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale is Friday and Saturday, June 5th and 6th. The sale takes place in all the small towns along SC Highway 23: Modoc, Edgefield, Johnston, Ward, Ridge Spring, Monetta, Batesburg and Leesville.
This is the ninth year for the sale, and let us say that you will be able to find most anything along the way. We have antiquers, metal workers, collectors, crafters, bakers, farmers, plant growers, as well as the person who has cleaned out granny’s attic, in other words just about anything you can think.  (Boiled Peanuts, too) Come early, bring small bills, wear walking shoes and cool clothes. The Ridge heats up for the Peach Tree. For info call 803-685-7810.  Get ready to “Rummage the Ridge”.
The Ridge Spring Harvest Festival Meeting will be June 9th at Cumbee Place at 6:00 PM.  Help us revamp and revitalize the Harvest Festival.
Off the Beaten Path is celebrating their birthday on June 6th.  We have been in business in Ridge Spring for 1 year now.  We love working with everyone and meeting all the wonderful people who live here and in the surrounding towns.  Thank you for all your support this year.  We are still growing and adding new artists and craftsmen.  We are excited to share their talents with you.  On June 6th, during Peach Tree 23, we will be serving cake to celebrate.  We hope you can come by and celebrate with us.  Hope to see you on June 6th.  We are open every day except Wednesday and Sunday from 10:00 to 5:00 PM.  

Evon Kenner: Jerusalem Baptist Church will have its Vacation Bible School June 9th - 12th from 6:00 until 8:00 PM.  The theme will be Jesus the True Super Hero.   The public is invited to attend.  For more information please call Ms. Brenda Legons at 803-685-5619.  The  Church will have its Father's Day program Sunday, June 21st at 10:15 AM.  The guest speaker for the occasion will be Rev. Preston Winkler.  You are invited to worship with Jerusalem as they celebrate fathers.  For additional information please call Arthur Kenner at 685-5453. The Children's Choir of Jerusalem Baptist Church will celebrate its anniversary Sunday, June 7th at 3:00 PM.  The public is invited and if additional information is required please call Brenda Legons at 685-5619.
Angela Cunningham.  The Ridge Spring Library has received a lot of new books (adult and children).  "CHECK OUT OUR NEW BOOKS".  Beginning June 1st you can start signing up for our summer reading program either online or stop by the Saluda Library and we will get them signed up.  All the information can be found at our website youseemore.com/Saluda  You can go to that site and see all the different programs we will be having at the Saluda Theatre this summer.  They are all free and for all ages.  We also have information at the Ridge Spring library about the programs.
AARS: The monthly meeting for AARS is June 9 at 6:30pm at the Art Center off Main Street in Ridge Spring.  AARS will be open for the Peach Tree yard sale.  Animal adoption will have pets to adopt set up in   front of the art center.    The adoption fee is $70.00.  If it is a puppy, that fee includes all puppy shots, spay/neuter and microchip, so it is a pretty good deal.  If the dog is older it will have already been spayed/neutered and will have a microchip as well.
The monthly needle craft is held the first Saturday at 11:00-1::00 at the Art Center.  The Next session is June 6th.  Bring your needle craft projects and share in the fun! These events are free to members and the general public.  Contact Candace Bush if you want more information 803.275.4014.
Saturday June 13, 9-2, there will be a Silk Scarf Class with Libby Bussinah, instructor.  This class is a repeat of the one Lib gave April 18th.  Students create an original 8x54 inch scarf using techniques with dyes.  All materials are provided by the instructor.  Class fee is $45.00. To register, contact Joanne Crouch at jonne.crouch26@gmail.com or call 803.685.5577.
Saturday June 27 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM Polymer clay workshop with Candace Bush , instructor.  Students make a Mokume Gane Pendant.  Fee of $35.00 includes all materials.  Call Candace Bush at 803.275.4014.
Reminder – Community Awareness Meeting on Human/Sex Trafficking will be Monday, June 8  at 6:30 pm at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.  Join guest speaker Ginger Amerson of iCare to learn more about this growing problem.  Mt. Calvary is located at 1186 Mt. Calvary Rd, Johnston.  Please RSVP to the church office at 685-7523 or mountcalvary@pbtcomm.net . Refreshments and childcare will be provided. For more information about iCare ministries visit i-care4.org.

Samantha McClure: Ridge Spring Baptist Church Vacation Bible School is titled SonSparks Lab 2015 and will be held June 22-25th. Come learn about Gods Plan4Us=JESUS. Supper will be served each night. Supper/registration starts at 5:30pm, fun starts at 6:00 pm and dismissal at 8:00 pm.  Ages 0-Adults are welcome. Adult Bible Study will be led by Pastor John Chambers. Come join us for an exciting week. For more information, please call or text Mrs. Samantha McClure 870-703-0778.

Joe Cal Watson: The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday, August first.  All descendants of John or William are invited to attend.  If you plan to be here, please let me know so your name will be in the pot.
Josie Rodgers

RSM Mid/High news:  The coveted William J. Ward Award, formerly the Trojan Award, was voted on by the faculty and presented to senior Quameshia Gantt at awards day last week.  The Class of the Year was the Junior Class.
            Graduation will be held Fri., June 5, at the USC-A Convocation Center at noon.  You must have a ticket to attend. 
            RSM graduate Jared Crute is now stationed in Vilseck, Germany, while serving in the army.  Mama Brenda is very proud!

St. William Catholic Church in Ward will have Bible School July 27-31 from 6-8 pm.  The theme is “Hometown Nazareth.”  Children will learn about Jesus as a child.  VBS will end with a fair and a few other suprises!
Synergy Martial Arts, at 110 Tidewater Road in Johnston, announces upcoming classes, some new!  You can try them for free!  Potential students may attend 2 classes for free before they decide to register.  Registration is a non-refundable fee of $20.  New classes include Little Warriors (ages 4-7, Mon/Thurs, 5:30 – 6 pm, $40 monthly) & Junior Tigers (ages 8-12, Tues/Thurs, 6:30 – 8 pm, $65 monthly).  Family discounts are available; private lessons by appointment only.  Laura Taylor will hold a Mother/Daughter 4-week Bible study and Self-Defense course on Saturdays July 11-Aug. 1 for $50.  For more information, call 803/270-8345.
Youth Football and Cheerleading Camp, June 20, sponsored by Aiken native and New England Patriots’ Dakoda Watson.  The first 300 boys and 100 girls free! Each participant is asked to bring 5 can goods to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank. You can register online at www.kodaskids.org. The deadline is June 1. Other NFL players will be there and have autographs for each child. T-shirts and light snacks will be provided. For more information, please contact Angela Watson at 803/292-3830 or www.kodaskids.org
RSM Elem news (Rene Miller): Each child that participates in the school’s summer reading program will be rewarded with a ticket to a RSM varsity football game and a varsity basketball game. Information and reading log will alsobe available from our website.
4H Summer Activities information may be found at http://www.clemson.edu/extension/county/saluda/programs/4h/. You may also contact the Saluda Extension Office at 864/445-8117, Connie Lake at clake@clemson.edu, or
Beth Morlock at ekedwar@clemson.edu.
            RSM Mid/High news:  Graduation will be held Fri., June 5, at the USC-A Convocation Center at noon.  You must have a ticket to attend. 
            Former RSM graduate Steven Gantt, graduate of the Darla Moore School of Business at USC in 2014 has established a college scholarship in his great-grandmother’s name (Katie Lee Johnson) under A. Bevy Inc. for students graduating from RSM.  Johnson taught Gantt all about selflessness and inspired him to give back to his community because she was so involved in the community. Gantt works for Amica Mutual Insurance, a company that matched his scholarship contribution.  The very first scholarship was awarded to Cristal Gonzalez-Duarte, who will attend Columbia College this fall to begin her pursuit in the medical field.  Gantt hopes to inspire others to give back to their community by helping graduates have the ability to pursue their dreams.   
           
Saluda County Library Summer Reading Program: Come by the library to sign up for summer reading or sign up at our website starting June 1st (www.youseemore.com/saluda).There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults! Programs and events are free and all ages are invited.  All events are at the Saluda Theatre unless otherwise noted.   Call 445-4500 x2264 for more info.  The first event is Fri., June 5, at 11 am:  Super Hero Academy and Summer Reading Kickoff! Register for Summer reading! Make a mask! Get a Cape! Leap over Tall Buildings! Lift Boulders! Train to be a Super Hero! Pose for super cool pictures!  Then on Wed., June 10 at 10 am, Story Ship presents “Super Me,” an anti-bullying superhero show that combines animation, puppetry, comedy theater, magic and music.
Add some math to your summer reading! Pick up your bedtime math log sheet at the library in Ridge Spring or Saluda! Put a star on each night you do a math problem! Earn a Frisbee when you turn it in before August 15, 2015. Prevent the summer math slide! Math will never be the same. (www.bedtimemath.org)

On a personal note, our oldest grandchild graduates from Gilbert High School.  We are so proud of our granddaughter Alena Brunson Senf.
Reminders:
June 5 & 6: peach Tree 23 Yard Sale
Aug. 1: Watson Reunion
Sept. 19: Ridge Spring Harvest Festival
Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wed., 12:30 – 4:30; Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,
Every 2nd & 4th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 
Every 2nd Monday:  RSM Elem PTO meets at 6:30 pm in the media center. 
Every Friday & Saturday:  AARS hours 10 – 4 or by appt, free admission
RSM Elementary Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
RSM High Summer hours:  Mon – Thurs 8 am – 4 pm
Wardlaw Academy Summer hours:  Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am – noon

King Academy Summer hours:  Mon – Fri 9 am - 1 pm or by appointment