Monday, July 25, 2016

July 25, 2016
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder

At the Ridge Spring Farmers Market: There were 10 vendors with a variety of produce for the shoppers and visitors. There were peaches, cantaloupes, watermelons, string beans, peas, several varieties of tomatoes, blueberries and blueberry muffins for a great breakfast, plants, boiled peanuts, and so much more.  Local honey from the Days Farm known as Dry Creek Honey Bee Farm was on sale, too.  Check out the produce and the sun flowers at the Town’s garden in front of the Old Town Hall.  It is free so just go by and enjoy.

Jerusalem Baptist Summer Revival will be held July 24-27.  On Sunday, July 24th at 2:00 PM Rev. Spencer and the Pleasant Grove Christian Methodist Episcopal Church of Lincolnton GA are in charge of the services.  Beginning July 25th - 27th,  Rev. Willie White, pastor of Newberry Baptist Church, Lincolnton GA will be the revivalist.  Weekly services will begin at 7:00 PM and the public is invited.  If additional information is required please call Rev. Sim Murray at 706-210-0433.

The Young Adult Ministry of Ridge Hill Baptist Church announces A College Prep Workshop on Saturday, August 6 from 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. All high school students, along with parents and anyone who may be interested are invited to come and learn more about how to prepare for college and other opportunities available beyond high school.   Please show your support as we seek to prepare our youth for their bright future.

Homecoming & Revival with Evangelist Howard Allen At Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church will be held Sunday, August 14th, 11:00 am & 6:00 pm Monday through Wednesday @ 7:00 pm Homecoming Dinner served immediately following the morning Worship Service Sunday.  Please bring your favorite covered dish.  Come join us!

Juniper Restaurant: “We had a great time representing the Ridge on Thursday in Columbia for Palmetto Palate to support the SC Farm Bureau.  It was an amazing line up of Local Columbia Chefs! “Juniper Chef Brandon served Adluh cornmeal crusted Manchester Farms Quail, with City Roots arugula and Titan Farms peach salad.  12 chefs participated.  The State Newspaper has a wonderful write up on line about the Velies and their restaurant in Ridge Spring!!!
Off The Beaten Path and The Gables Inn and Gardens “Boy is it hot outside but nice and cool in Off the Beaten Path.   We are keeping that air cool for your shopping pleasure.  Be sure to stop by and check us out for your home decor needs, wedding or new baby gifts, and that back to school outfit.  We are also pleased to announce that we are carrying the new book by local SC author Slade Belgard called Mystic Creek

Jake Willoughby reflects on his life growing up on John’s Island, South Carolina in the late sixties and his five regretful words that changed many lives. Join the foudroyant journey of adolescence, the struggle between good and bad, the coming of age and the struggle within. You’ll be captivated by colorful, southern characters that experience heartfelt and tragic events in their lives. You will laugh, cry, be frightened and mystified as you travel from the marshes of the low country through the deadly jungles of Vietnam and the swift currents of the barrier Sea Islands. We are so honored to premier his book.  Hurry in to get your copy!!  Great summer read! Store hours have changed on Monday and Tuesday.  We are open 11:00-3:00 PM, Thursday-Saturday 10-5.
The Gables Inn & Gardens in Ward is available for weddings, parties, girl's weekend, corporate luncheons or any other need you may have.  We offer a beautiful location for a quiet weekend away from everything too.  Give us a call and let us know how we can help you plan your next gathering.  803-685-0099
AARS (Joanne Crouch): We are working on many projects at the Art Center.  In the foyer, we have designated that area as our Gift Shop.  Items in that location are $50 or less.  Please shop for that special someone there.  Interested in stained glass? The Art Center will have stained glass classes in the fall.  Get on the mailing list by emailing artassnridgespring@gmail.com if you are interested.   The Art Center of Ridge Spring is open each Friday and Saturday from 10-4.  Contact joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or artassnridgespring@gmail.com or call (803)685-5577 and leave message to reserve place in classes.


Ridge Spring Town Newsletter July 23, 2016
Summer is in full blast which means mosquitoes. There have been 11 reported cases of Zika virus in SC. We, as a community and as individuals, need to be vigilant in our fight against mosquitoes. Dump water from anything that you see holding water. Look around your property; is the trash can uncovered, are there old tires thrown outback, what about the bird bath, the plastic bags hanging on the fence? All these collect water and breed mosquitoes. This virus is serious and causes lifelong deformities in unborn babies. Adults also may suffer with different levels of difficulty-even death. Do what you can by simply emptying anything with standing water.
There is a community garden in front of the old town hall. Go by and pick what is ripe or just enjoy looking.
South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism awarded the Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale with a $15,000 grant to promote the event. Thanks to Senator Nikki Setzler for his help with the effort.
The Harvest Festival Committee is moving forward with its plans for a Bluegrass and BBQ Festival. If you do the best BBQ around, why not enter the BBQ Cook-off? The entry form is on ridgespringsc.com under events. There is even talk of having the “bucking bull ride” to test your riding skills.
Town Hall will be operating on a new schedule beginning August 1st and will be open every day of the week from 8:30 to 5:00, including Wednesday afternoons. We will be closed for lunch.
At July’s Council meeting, the council voted to move forward with securing funding of a new town hall to be located on the same spot. The building will be somewhat larger, adding a police department and a larger meeting room.
Also on the agenda was the 1st reading of an ordinance to sell the building at 632 E. Main Street.
There was also discussion about dogs running loose.  These dogs are challenging people who walk and are killing other animals. If your dog is found running loose, there will be a fine.
Water is at a premium during these hot months with Ridge Spring selling over 21,000,000 gallons of water during June. July is typically the largest use month and we are in a drought situation. Please conserve water. The town purchases water from Batesburg, and we have an emergency line that connects to Saluda County Water and Sewer which may be activated if the situation continues. Water and likewise sewage is very expensive. When water goes down your drain, or toilet you are paying for water and almost twice as much for sewage. If the faucet is dripping at 30 drops per minute, then add 54 gallons a month water and 54 gallons a month in sewage. If the drip is 120 drips per minute, then add 1,014 gallons per month in both water and sewage. If there is a leak in a pipe the size of the end of a needle, add 120 gallons per day, 3600 gallons a month-money wasted in both water and sewage costs. Please be conscious of your use and save money on the water bill.
We welcome back Mr. Mack Johnson; we appreciate all that he does for the town. Remember: Don’t look back; we aren’t going in that direction.
Although we do not have a newspaper here in town we have individuals that work hard to keep you informed. Our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/RidgeSpringSC is operated out of our Town Hall and we post information of all types on it to keep you informed. Also Harriet Householder and Josie Rogers put out local newsletters every month that have tons of great information in them. You can email them a request to be added to their email list. Josie Rodgers email address is JRogers@acpsd.net and Harriet Householder’s is hfhouseholder@gmail.com . Also we post important information on the town sign so make sure to glance at it when you come to town. If you have important news and need to get the word out email us here at town hall rstownhall@comporium.net.
We now have two great Bed and Breakfast Inns in our area for those of you that have relatives or friends coming to town. Magnolia Shadows at 595 Engineer Rd. in Ridge Spring www.magnoliashadows.com and The Gables Inn and Gardens in Ward, you can find more information about The Gables on Facebook. Both of these are beautiful old homes that provide a wonderful place to stay and/or have events.
Dry Creek Honey Bee Farm is located outside of Ward.  The Day family has honey for sale and will do Bee Removals.  Some fun facts about bees and honey are: 1. all honey will crystallize over time.  You can easily re-liquefy it by gently heating the jar in a pan of hot water.  Do not overheat as heat may alter flavor.  Storing honey in the refrigeration will make it crystallize rather quickly. 2. To make one pound of honey bees must visit 2 million flowers.  3. Honey bees never sleep. 4. A honey bee can fly approximately 15 mph.  5. Honey is the Hebrew word meaning Enchant. 6. Honey is the only food that included all the substances necessary to sustain like, including water.
Saluda County Library:  On July 29, Lew-E the Clown will perform in Read-O-Lympics with circus skills, magic, & bringing books to life.  Don’t miss all these great shows that encourage reading in your young people!

The Watson Reunion
The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday August 6, at 11:00 AM.  The Watson House is located on East Main Street in Ridge Spring.  For more information call Joe Watson at 803.685.5335 or Mary Edmonds at 803.790.7780.  The deadline for reservations is July 25.

Josie Rodgers:
The anniversary of Leagrace’s dancing her way into Heaven has come.  Though officially slated as July 25, I believe that she departed her frail little body a few days earlier.  I imagined myself singing to her, playing her favorite songs, and praying over her that Friday, July 24, and her looking down upon me saying, “Nana, I’m not coming back to that body!  I have a new body!  I can walk!  I can run!  I can DANCE!  I can talk!  I can sing!  I’m with my Heavenly Father!  Oh, Nana!  You will love it here!  Don’t be sad.  I am healed, just like you prayed!  Please tell my Mommy and Daddy that I’m okay and that I’ll be waiting on them.  Tell them to take care of my little brother and the baby.”  Now, I know she’s even happier because her beloved Papa is with her, too.  I am so sad, with a physical ache, that we are without them, but I rejoice in their Heavenly adventures now! 
My family and I will never forget all of the love, support, and caring we received from other family members, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers.  We will never forget or take for granted everything everyone did for us, especially praying for us.  That is how we have survived this past year.  That is how we will continue to go on.  We will always look for God’s blessings even in the midst of sorrow.  We will live so that we too can enjoy the presence of the King of Kings!
Oh, my Pooky girl…Nana misses you so.

Ridge Spring-Monetta Mid/High School:  Registration will be held Aug. 4 from 10 am to 5 pm and Aug. 9 from 12 pm to 7 pm.  Please see the school’s website for more information. 


Recycling Center Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1-7; Saturday 7-7; Sunday 3-7
Closed Tuesday and Thursday
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 pm -4:30 pm
Ridge Spring Library Toddler Time Mondays at 10:30
3rd Thursday:  FORS at Ridge Spring Library 5:00 pm

1st Tuesday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783

Monday, July 18, 2016

July 18, 2016
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder
TOWN HALL NOTICE!!!! For The Town of Ridge Spring's water customers. These hot days are taking a toll on us all including your water department, here in Ridge Spring.
PLEASE CONSERVE YOUR WATER AND PLEASE NO LAWN WATERING.
THE PEACH TREE 23 YARD SALE RECEIVES A GRANT!!
The Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale received a gigantic boost for next year’s event. Parks, Recreation, and Tourism awarded the Peach Tree a $15,000 check to support the Yard Sale. Senator Nikki Setzler awarded the check during a regular Town Council meeting on Monday, June, 11th. The monies will be used to purchase advertising, for social media, and to work with law enforcement in managing traffic flow through the town.
The Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale is held the first Friday and Saturday in June along highway 23 in South Carolina and includes the towns of Modoc, Edgefield, Johnston, Ward, Ridge Spring, Monetta, and Batesburg-Leesville. The Yard Sale is in its 12th year, and with the help of Senator Setzler, and Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, it will continue its growth.
At the Ridge Spring Farmers Market: There were 12 vendors with a variety of produce for the shoppers and visitors.  Mr. Raborn was there with watermelons and peas that sold out in 10 minutes. Sherald Rodgers had tomatoes and more but will be missing this coming Saturday, a little vacation...  Mrs. Carr had such a variety of produce and so did Leonard Bell.  There were peaches, cantaloupes, watermelons, string beans, peas, several varieties of tomatoes, blueberry muffins for a great breakfast, plants, boiled peanuts, and so much more.  Local honey from the Days was on sale, too.   

Friends of Ridge Spring will meet this Thursday, July 21 at the Ridge Spring Library.  We meet at 5:00 PM and all are welcomed.

Juniper Restaurant celebrated its 11th birthday anniversary this past week.  And then Chef Brandon and his son appeared on WLTX TV in the early morning show to promote Palmetto Palate.

Be sure to keep fresh water out for the birds on these hot days.
ART CENTER OF RIDGE SPRING
Joanne Crouch, president
We are working on many projects at the Art Center.  In the foyer, we have designated that area as our Gift Shop.  Items in that location are $50 or less.  Please shop for that special someone there.  Interested in stained glass???  The Art Center will have stained glass classes in the fall.  Get on the mailing list by emailing artassnridgespring@gmail.com if you are interested.   The Art Center of Ridge Spring is open each Friday and Saturday from 10-4.  Contact joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or artassnridgespring@gmail.com or call (803)685-5577 and leave message to reserve place in classes. 

Daylily Depot: It’s hot, it’s dry, but the blueberries at Daylily Depot (381 Trojan Road) are plentiful and ready to be picked.  The bushes are in full sun so be sure to come early and avoid the heat.
Ridge Spring Harvest Festival
The Festival is coming this October 13-15. The Ridge Spring, SC Harvest Festival Bluegrass and BBQ! There will be Bluegrass Friday night and all day Saturday the 15th! Check out http://www.ridgespringharvestfestival.com/ for more details and info on competing in our first ever local BBQ contest!
The Blue Grass music includes on Friday night the Carolina Rebels.  Saturday bands include Back Porch Bluegrass, West End String Band, Carolina Bluegrass Company and at 7:00 the Steam Drill. Make plans to attend.
The Watson Reunion
The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday August 6, at 11:00 AM.  The Watson House is located on East Main Street in Ridge Spring.  For more information call Joe Watson at 803.685.5335 or Mary Edmonds at 803.790.7780.  The deadline for reservations is July 25.

Josie Rodgers
This past weekend, my two younger kids and I travelled to Pell City, Alabama, to visit with my Daddy and step-mom.  I have been the luckiest girl to have 4 parents who love me and my children unconditionally.  My 4 parents have been friends for years.  It may not have begun as friendship, but through the years with God’s grace and a lot of patience and forgiveness, these four people developed a relationship that is hard to find among families in similar situations.  My two dads were friends, and my Daddy (John) was hurt when my Dad (Jim) passed away in June.    So, yes, I have 4 parents, 3 on earth and 1 in Heaven.  I am a blessed woman to have so much love and support in my life.  All that said, I am and will always be a Mama’s girl!
While in Alabama, we visited the Birmingham Zoo.  My Daddy had never been to a zoo in his life, so he wanted to go with the kids.  It was sweltering, so we didn’t get to see every animal at the zoo.  Two hours in the heat of the day was enough!  Aiden was happy because he saw the elephants, primates, and farm animals (along with others).  Riverbanks Zoo is truly more beautiful and the exhibits are much closer together and more convenient to visit.  However, the zoo in summer is a debatable activity for any location!
Saluda County Library:  Magician Caleb Alexander will perform Fri., July 22 from 10-11 at the Theatre.  On July 29, Lew-E the Clown will perform in Read-O-Lympics with circus skills, magic, & bringing books to life.  Don’t miss all these great shows that encourage reading in your young people!
Ridge Spring United Methodist Church:  RSUMC is partnering with Mt. Calvary Lutheran on one of their ongoing outreach ministries. This summer the Big Red Box’s cousin, The Little Red Bucket will be collecting Box Tops for Education and pull tabs from canned beverages.  If you would like to participate, leave what you have collected on the front porch of the Family Life Center and we will make sure they find their way to the LRB.  RSUMC is also partnering with Ridge Spring Baptist and will be collecting clothes detergent for their ongoing ministry for the Sheppard’s Hand. The Big Red Box is asking for donations through the month of July. Again, if you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the FLC and we will make sure they find their way. Thanking you in advance for all your community support for these worthwhile endeavors.

Review from David Marshall James: "Rude B-----s Make Me Tired" by Celia Rivenbark
    I heard that, girlfriend.
   Actually, Celia and moi would probably be big buds, as our thought patterns converge on multiple levels.  We're about the same age, in full realization that our remaining years will be precious and fleeting.  Hence, Celia's latest book (her seventh)-- a rundown of behaviors that truly tick her off, masquerading as an etiquette guide.
   The thesis-- keep your needless aggravations and offenses outta my face, and everybody else's while you're at it.
   Much of her advice pertains to standing or waiting in line:  At the P.O., stores, store parking lots, and traffic.  She singles out those pesky people who don't consider their method of payment until the receipt goes floating over their shoulder to the floor, and the cashier is glaring them down, not desirous of being concussed in the melee of flying canned goods about to ensue in the queue.
   North Carolinian Celia-- sharper and funnier than ever-- lets loose with some fussin' cussin' streaks, addressing social events ranging from the out-to-birthday-lunch office group to the people-over-for-dinner party, up to weddings.
   By the hey, email wedding invitations are not now, nor will they ever be, acceptable.  You get your gluteus maximus to the P.O. and invest in some aesthetically pleasing postage, so we can all continue to have another venue in which to queue.  Email an invitation, and you'll have your gift emailed.  Think about it.
    I am all in with Celia over the exorbitant amounts spent on bridal gowns.  What a waste, especially since the last person to wear a tasteful bridal gown was Kate Middleton.  Tears sprang to my eyes when I beheld her, my hope springing eternal that she would start a trend.
   Oh no and oh woe.  The bridal herds went right backless and brainless to their strapless atrocities.   Hear me now but believe me yesterday:  Only one out of every ten thousand women looks good in one of those.  Have you ever considered how much material (and design work) is saved on a strapless creation?  Do you think you're being charged less for that lack of material/effort?  You have been hornswoggled, heifahs!
   Listen some more:  If your upper arms look like Smithfield hams-- or, conversely, beef jerky sticks-- you do not need to go strapless either down the aisle of a church, or down the Little Debbie aisle of a grocery store.
   To put a nonchauvinistic, let's-keep-it-real spin on it:  Think about how few men look good in tank tops or T-less T's.  Think hard.  Okay, now you've got it:  Sleeves, please.  After all, you’re paying for them.
Recycling Center Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1-7; Saturday 7-7; Sunday 3-7
Closed Tuesday and Thursday
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 pm -4:30 pm
Ridge Spring Library Toddler Time Mondays at 10:30
3rd Thursday:  FORS at Ridge Spring Library 5:00 pm

1st Tuesday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783

Monday, July 11, 2016

July 11, 2016
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder

On June 13, 2016, I opened my column with the following statement.  Who would think I would be doing it again in only four weeks.  “The sorrow I feel for the senseless violence is overwhelming.  My prayers go out to all.” ALL LIVES MATTER!!!!!

From the Mayor's Desk: Beginning August 1st the Town Hall will be open on Wednesday afternoons as well as the remainder of the  week. The Town garden has lots of tomatoes. Feel free to pick, weed, or take a look at what is growing. Remember that mosquito weather is full force and that just a small amount of water will grow thousands of mosquitoes. The Zika virus has been found in SC, and with just a little thought or work, you could save a child from a lifetime of horrors by just emptying containers of water. Our next Council meeting will be July 11 at 6:30 at the library. There will be a Harvest Festival meeting on July 12, at 7:00 at the library.
At the Ridge Spring Farmers Market there were 13 vendors with a variety of produce for the shoppers and visitors.  Mr. Raborn was missed but he is doing well at home.  Hurry back!!! Sherald Rodgers had corn and baskets of tomatoes for canning.  Mrs. Carr had such a variety of produce and so did Leonard Bell.  There were peaches, cantaloupes, watermelons, string beans, zipper peas, several varieties of tomatoes, cupcakes, homemade breads, jams, plants, boiled peanuts, and so much more.  The blueberries from the Smith Farm and honey from the Days were there.   

AgSouth gave the market a big box of reusable bags to give out on the second Saturday of the Farmers Market.  They were greatly appreciated by all for we gave them all out in about 3 hours.  Thanks again to AgSouth for their generosity.

October 13-1is the Ridge Spring, SC Harvest Festival Bluegrass and BBQ! There will be Bluegrass Friday night and all day Saturday the 15th! Check out http://www.ridgespringharvestfestival.com/ for more details and information on competing in our first ever local BBQ contest!

Kenny Leapart is also doing pressure washing whatever you need done. He will not do two story homes though.  Contact him at K & L Car Wash or at 803.480.5026.  He has great prices and will give you an appraisal for the job.

The Watson Reunion
The Watson Family Reunion will be held at the Watson House in Ridge Spring on Saturday August 6, at 11:00 AM.  The annual reunion is an opportunity for descendants of John or William Watson to visit with cousins, learn more about our ancestors, and visit cemeteries and other sites associated with the family.  The Watson House is located on East Main Street in Ridge Spring.  The original house was constructed by Elijah Watson II and later enlarged by Robert Watson.  For more information call Joe Watson at 803.685.5335 or Mary Edmonds at 803.790.7780.  The deadline for reservations is July 25.
Laura Walker’s nephew Michael Roth had his contract bought by the Texas Rangers and he is living one of his dreams by having pitched at Fenway Park in Boston on the 4th.  I guess if you are going to work on the 4th, Boston is a good place to do it.

A big thanks to this group who showed they care about their community by participating in a Litter Pick up sponsored by Miss South Carolina Earth United States,  yesterday in Ridge Spring. Mae-Ann Webb, Miss South Carolina Earth United States, Mayor Pat Asbill and a great group from the Ridge Spring-Monetta area chipped in.  The much littered area at the intersection of Hwy 392 and Hwy #1 is now clean thanks to this group. Hope we will all follow their lead and keep our communities "Litter Free"
Mount Calvary Social Ministry Committee is sponsoring a school supply drive for local schools: (paper, pencils, copier paper, notebooks, binders, colored pencils, book bags etc. Cash donations will also be accepted. Please contact Bill Hallman @ 803-685-7663 with any donations. In 2014, through a generous bequest, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church established the $5,000 Yonce-Nichols Scholarship to provide financial assistance to a qualified student pursuing a degree or certification in any accredited post-secondary program.  The first scholarship has been awarded to Carson Hatcher.  A graduate of Dutch Fork High School, Carson will be attending Clemson University this fall with plans to pursue a degree in nursing. She is the daughter of Brian & Chappelle Hatcher.
Magician Caleb Alexander will perform Fri., July 22 from 10-11 at the Theatre.  On July 29, Lew-E the Clown will perform in Read-O-Lympics with circus skills, magic, & bringing books to life.  Don’t miss all these great shows that encourage reading in your young people!
Harriet’s Garden has cut back her hours because of the heat for the months of July and August.  You can always reach me by the phone number that is in the phone book or on the sign for I have call forwarding and I will get the call. It is 803.685.7970.

ART CENTER OF RIDGE SPRING: Joanne Crouch, president

     Barbara Yon will teach a collage class at the Art Center on Saturday, July 16th from 10-1 for $30.  The students may bring items to put in the collage if you like.  Supplies will be provided.  Call Barbara Yon to reserve a spot at (803)385-5396.      Stay tuned for information on stained glass classes that will be coming to the Art Center in the fall. The Art Center of Ridge Spring is open each Friday and Saturday from 10-4.  Contact joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or artassnridgespring@gmail.com or call (803)685-5577 and leave message to reserve place in classes. 
Josie Rodgers: I just finished a Karen Kingsbury’s Sunrise series, 4 books focused on the famous Baxter family and all of their trials, triumphs, failures, and redemption. Now, one may think that Christian novels are boring, and everything always has a happy ending in the movie sense of the word.  However, these novels are exciting and suspenseful, and not every situation ends the way the characters may want. I find such reassurance in these stories.  Every family member goes through terrible ordeals, even tragedies but eventually learn that leaning on God, praying, and having faith is the only way to live.  Again, many thanks go to my precious friend Lara Edwards for introducing me to this author.  This week, I will be giving her Sunrise series back and borrowing the Above the Line series.  I have to force myself to put these books down and do my homework for my online literacy class!  A bit ironic, don’t you think? If you are interested in these novels, visit karenkingsbury.com and click on the Baxters icon.  The series are listed in order, and trust me, you have to read them in order.  A Baxter Family Christmas will be released Oct. 25, so hurry up!  I’m sure you can read it even if you haven’t read any of the others, but you will fall in love with this family just as I did!

Ridge Spring United Methodist Church:  RSUMC is partnering with Mt. Calvary Lutheran on one of their ongoing outreach ministries. This summer the Big Red Box’s cousin, The Little Red Bucket will be collecting Box Tops for Education and pull tabs from canned beverages.  If you would like to participate, leave what you have collected on the front porch of the Family Life Center and we will make sure they find their way to the LRB.  RSUMC is also partnering with Ridge Spring Baptist and will be collecting clothes detergent for their ongoing ministry for the Sheppard’s Hand. The Big Red Box is asking for donations through the month of July. Again, if you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the FLC and we will make sure they find their way. Thanking you in advance for all your community support for these worthwhile endeavors.

Review from David Marshall James:
"The Baker Street Jurors" by Michael Robertson
   Reggie and Nigel Heath-- brothers and partners in law, though scarcely two peas in a pod-- practice out of a famous London address.
   It's so famous that their office lease requires that they continue to answer the mail received by the previous occupant, in residence more than a century ago, and fictitious at that.
   Such is the power of superlative literary characterization that readers would still be inquiring of Sherlock Holmes.  Then, too, you have the loony, the lonely, and the lustful.
   It would seem that Mr. Holmes is real enough to the Crown that it would forward him a jury summons.  Brother Nigel-- who has been off in Los Angeles more often than not in the preceding four volumes of this series-- takes center stage in this mystery novel, by circumstance more than choice.
   His “affaire de coeur” with an American damsel in distress has come to a bad end, and older brother Reggie is off on an extended honeymoon with his movie-actress bride.
   When the summons arrives, down-and-out Nigel is living in chambers, subsisting off Mars bars, newsstand coffee, and pub grub, whilst availing himself of the office loo.  Being Nigel, he folds the offending summons into a paper airplane, sailing it out the window.
   Oops.  He doesn't recall that scene from "Mary Poppins," which transpired a few blocks away on Cherry Tree Lane, in which Mr. Banks tears up his children's request for the perfect nanny, tossing it into the fireplace, from which it arises upon reassembling itself.
   Should Nigel be all that surprised when he shows up for jury duty, having received his own summons, to encounter a prospective seat mate bearing a striking resemblance to Mr. Holmes?  And we don't mean Oliver Wendell.
   Author Michael Robertson delivers a sensational trial, fueled by media frenzy over a star cricket player accused of bludgeoning his unfaithful wife with his cricket bat.  No "S," Sherlock:  That's bat-"S" crazy.
   Then, weird things begin happening to the jury, as the author takes a lead from Dame Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None," along with his ties to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, making for a jolly good fifth "Brothers of Baker Street Mystery."  No merde, Miss Marple.

Recycling Center Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1-7; Saturday 7-7; Sunday 3-7
Closed Tuesday and Thursday
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 pm -4:30 pm
Ridge Spring Library Toddler Time Mondays at 10:30
3rd Thursday:  FORS at Ridge Spring Library 5:00 pm

1st Tuesday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

July 4, 2016
Ridge Spring News
Harriet Householder

Did you notice the American Flags on all the light poles on Main Street of Ridge Spring?  It makes me so proud of our town, our county, our State and our Nation.  They were purchased by funds from the Harvest Festival several years ago.  I thank the town employees for putting them up.

The Ridge Spring Farmers Market was alive with vendors, produce, shoppers and visitors.  Mr. Raborn brought his peas and they were gone in less than an hour.  Corn was plentiful.  Sherald Rodgers sold over 40 dozen ears. Mrs. Carr had corn and so did Leonard Bell.  There were peaches, cantaloupes, watermelons, several varieties of tomatoes, cupcakes, homemade breads, jams, and so much more.  I sold out of the boiled peanuts and thoroughly enjoyed the day.

The Watson Reunion will be held the first Saturday in August at the Watson House, August 6.  All descendents of William and John Watson are invited.

I received an email with the following suggestions, “Looking for ways to stay cool this summer?”  1. Grab an ice cream cones or frozen fruit pop.  2. Stick your pillowcases in a plastic bag in the freezer for a few minutes before bed.  3. Take a trip to the lake or the beach to relax in the water! 4. Visit the North Pole. 5.  Head to a museum or library and learn while you cool down.   My helpers at the Farmers’ Market (grandchildren) went to Bank’s Drugs and got that ice cream.  IT was goooddd!!!!  And we were selling fruits that would make great frozen fruit pops.  We are fortunate to be so close to lakes, ponds and the ocean for we are in the middle of our state.  Ridge spring has a wonderful library, too.

Josie Rodgers
RSM Elem:  Dory would say, “Just keep reading!  Just keep reading!”  Don’t limit your summer reading to one book!  Read lots of books!  Remembers, each child that participates will be rewarded with a ticket to an RSM varsity football game and a varsity basketball game. Information and reading log will also be available on the school’s website. In addition, we can help prevent the “summer slide” by continuing to read and learn.
The Saluda County Library’s Summer Reading Program is in full swing! Come by the Saluda County Library at 101 S. Main Street to sign up or you may sign up at their website:  www.youseemore.com/saluda. Click on Summer Reading!  There are prizes for all ages, including babies, children, teens and adults!  You will also want to mark your calendar for the Summer Reading Events. Remember that all events are free and for all ages.  You can pick up a schedule for all the events at the Ridge Spring or Saluda County Library or you can go to the library website.
On Fri., July 8, Bubble Guy Steve Langley will share the magic of soap and bubbles at the Saluda Theatre from 11-12.  On Thurs., July 14, Cirque du Todd will be at the Saluda Theatre from 10-11 with juggling, circus skills, magic, & comedy. Magician Caleb Alexander will perform Fri., July 22 from 10-11 at the Theatre.  On July 29, Lew-E the Clown will perform in Read-O-Lympics with circus skills, magic, & bringing books to life.  Don’t miss all these great shows that encourage reading in your young people!
Ridge Spring United Methodist Church:  RSUMC is partnering with Mt. Calvary Lutheran on one of their ongoing outreach ministries. This summer the Big Red Box’s cousin, The Little Red Bucket will be collecting Box Tops for Education and pull tabs from canned beverages.  If you would like to participate, leave what you have collected on the front porch of the Family Life Center and we will make sure they find their way to the LRB.  RSUMC is also partnering with Ridge Spring Baptist and will be collecting clothes detergent for their ongoing ministry for the Sheppard’s Hand. The Big Red Box is asking for donations through the month of July. Again, if you would like to help, leave your donations on the porch of the FLC and we will make sure they find their way. Thanking you in advance for all your community support for these worthwhile endeavors.
St. William Catholic Church will hold Cave Quest VBS (Following Jesus, The Light of the World), July 11-15 in the evenings. Contact Kelly Bedenbaugh for more info.

Don’t forget that the blueberries are plentiful at the Daylily Depot (381 Trojan Rd. Ridge Spring, telephone 685-7219).  It’s pick-your-own, $3 a quart or $10 a gallon; it’s best to go early before it gets too hot.
ART CENTER OF RIDGE SPRING: Joanne Crouch, president

     Barbara Yon will teach a collage class at the Art Center on Saturday, July 16th from 10-1 for $30.  The students may bring items to put in the collage if you like.  Supplies will be provided.  Call Barbara Yon to reserve a spot at  (803)385-5396.      Stay tuned for information on stained glass classes that will be coming to the Art Center in the fall. The Art Center of Ridge Spring is open each Friday and Saturday from 10-4.  Contact joanne.crouch26@gmail.com or artassnridgespring@gmail.com or call (803)685-5577 and leave message to reserve place in classes. 
You know there was plenty of squash at the market.  I found a neat recipe in the Ridge Recipes published in 1982 celebrating one hundred years of progress.  Enjoy.
Squash Casserole
2 lbs squash             can of cream of chicken soup       large onion
1 stick of butter         8-oz of sour cream                           pkg. herb stuffing mix

Cook squash with small amount of water and salt until tender.  Drain. Cook onions in butter until done.  Mix all ingredients together using ¾ of herb mix.  Sprinkle remaining herb mix on top of casserole and bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes.
Next week I might find corn pie, peach cobbler and/or something else. And then David Marshall reviews a cook book.  How appropriate.
Review from David Marshall James:

"The Happy Table of Eugene Walter:  Southern Spirits in Food and Drink" by Eugene Walter edited by Donald Goodman and Thomas Head

   Mobilean (as in Alabamian and as in peripateticien) Eugene Walter spent almost twenty years in Rome, participating in its thriving 1960s film industry, living in an apartment above Leontyne Price's, and scouring the markets for ingredients to prepare Southern dishes for his many dinner parties.
   In this "spiritous"cookbook-- every recipe calls for at least one alcoholic beverage-- Walter presents a dish dubbed in Miss Price's honor, Oysters Leontyne, alongside Oysters Tetrazzini, which was created for Italian opera diva Luisa Tetrazzini by other hands.
   I've never connected Chicken or Oyster Tetrazzini to Luisa-- who apparently made the rounds of restaurants, leaving favorable impressions in her wake-- but that's merely one of the myriad gustatory tidbits to sample from Walter's historical notes and essays on foods and beverages.
   For instance, the pineapple didn't originate in Hawaii, but in the Caribbean isles, where it was encountered by a delighted Christopher Columbus.  Recipes for pineapple upside-down cake began appearing in cookbooks during the 1870s.
   Although Walter-- known primarily as a novelist, a poet, and a food writer-- provides some recipes that would tickle any modern "foodie's" fancy, he's far from a food snob and doesn't exclude the use of, say, "Mr. Campbell's soup" in some of his preparations.
   I knew I liked him when he served peanut butter atop bruschetta at one of his Roman repasts, and then covered another creation with Vienna sausages.  You can take the boy out of the South, but you can't take the South out of the boy.
   There's even a cream-of-mushroom-based tuna casserole, which I look upon with nostalgic glee, potato-chip topping and all.  Walter's recipe calls for a tablespoon of vermouth, but I'm thinking some dry sherry instead.  The author would be the first to exclaim, "Experiment!"
   I knew I loved him when he rhapsodized over the oyster loaf.  Being a Mobile native, he supplies many a seafood recipe, plus a history of tartar sauce, which actually predates Jesus Christ.  You never would have thought it.  The Bible only mentions the loaves and the fishes ... and the wine.
   Walter sets you straight up about eggnog, mint juleps (spearmint only, plucked no more than fifteen minutes in advance), and punches.  He'll tell you how to goose up a holiday dinner, even though he's not inordinately fond of turkey, yet he'll trot you through the preparation of a large bird.
   The author notes:  "I know an audacious lady in Demopolis who roasts her turkey the day before Christmas and on Christmas evening enchants her relations and friends with turkey gumbo, creamed turkey stew, salad of white meat, salad of dark meat, and a cold pate made of giblets."
   Walter doesn't skimp on the desserts.  Something called "Family Reunion Cake" would have me kissing every cousin.
   This one-of-a-kind cookbook, which features the author's anthropomorphic drawings of fruits and vegetables, was unpublished at the time of his death in 1998, and assembled by the editors for the University of North Carolina Press.  Here's hoping that Walter isn't just "munching sunbeams" as he puts it, but is enjoying an oyster loaf with a well-chilled glass of something spiritous.

Harriet Householder: Watch out for standing water.  The Zeka-virus carrying mosquito is here.  Keep vigilant for all!!! 


Recycling Center Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1-7; Saturday 7-7; Sunday 3-7
Closed Tuesday and Thursday
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 pm -4:30 pm
Ridge Spring Library Toddler Time Mondays at 10:30
3rd Thursday:  FORS at Ridge Spring Library 5:00 pm

1st Tuesday of the Month:  AARS meets at 6:30, 685-5783