Ridge Spring News: 2019

Monday, December 23, 2019

December 23, 2019

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

Mayor Pat Asbill: BIG changes have already taken place on Main Street in Ridge Spring. The town plaza/parking lot has been totally removed: the islands , trees, and asphalt. This week we will be seeing water, sewer and electrical lines put in place. The water tower has been finished and will soon find a new home in the garden entryway. The area will then be prepped for the paver brick. Once the gravel and pavers are in place, we can once again park in that area while we wait for the asphalt. While we are waiting for that, the asphalt area by Migelitoes' and Haley B's will be milled and new asphalt put down. Somewhere in all this, the islands that are in Highway 23 will also be removed and repaved. All will be finished by March 1st or sooner. Our businesses are remaining open during the construction and hope that you will still visit for your holiday shopping. As soon as the plaza is finished, work will begin on the open air farmers' market. Our plans are for everything to be in place for our summer market.

Juniper Restaurant will be closed for the Holidays from December 23-27.

The Town of Ridge Spring and Spring4Life will continue the cat clinics in 2020. In a few short months we have sterilized 80 cats and will have far fewer kitten litters in 2020. But, we already know we have many more to go to be truly effective in humanely reducing our community cat over-populations.

There has been a backlog and waiting list for available appointments for the low-cost spay or neuter with a rabies shot but with our next clinic date we will again be offering those services at $19 for Town of Ridge Spring residents and $39 for all other Saluda County residents. There is a small up-charge if your cat is a house pet..

Spring4Life is not a shelter. It is a volunteer organization and we always need new volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering or scheduling the sterilizing of your cat, please contact Laura at Spring4Life (803-522-0348) or Ridge Spring Town Hall.

The Friends of Ridge Spring has been an organization that supports the town and the businesses. Attracting tourists has been a major goal. The town had the Harvest Festival and its committee but we needed more events. So Peach Tree 23 began, the Farmers' Market, Christmas Open House, Quilting weekend on the Ridge, the Ridge Spring Brochures and the rack cards.. There have been successes and failures but the support of the town has been its major goal. In 2014, this was our mission statement and projects. Our accomplishments too. I have enjoyed being the chair for about 12 years but it is time for me to go. Sherald Rodgers has agreed to become the chairperson and I am sure he will do a great job. Thank you for this opportunity.

FORS MISSION STATEMENT

“Friends of Ridge Spring” is an organization of merchants and friends whose purpose is to help and promote Ridge Spring and its businesses.

Projects:

FORS (2014)

· Began the library project

· Worked for 4 years with four different people to get the web site up and running

· Placed the sign at hwy #1 and hwy # 392 advertising Ridge Spring tourist destination

· Bought banners advertising the Ridge Spring Farmers’ Market that ran across Main Street until they faded and then replaced them with banners on the lamp posts

· The Farmers' Market

· Peach Tree 23 Yard Sale

· Replacing the lettering on the welcome signs coming into town

· Ridge Spring Rack Cards promoting the town as a place to visit and placing them in welcome centers

· Ridge Spring brochures

· Promoting tourism

· New project:

ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY

We have one last weekend before the holidays are on us! Come by the Art Center and get your last minute gifts. We are open Friday 12/20 and Saturday 12/21 from 10 am to 2 pm. The Art Center will be closed on Friday 12/27 and Saturday 12/28 for a holiday break. Please, stop by this week or come on by in the New Year! Check out what we have coming up, we are on Facebook and don’t forget to check out our website at http://ridgespringlovesart.weebly.com. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Pen Turning Class

Saturday, January 11 & 25, 2020 10 AM - 11:30 AM, 12 PM - 1:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 3 PM

One student per each hour & half session. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

Cost: $35 [Includes all supplies to make a custom ink pen] Session will be held in Larry’s workshop. Teacher: Larry Sides

Bowl Turning Class

Saturday, January 18, 2020 1:00 PM - 3 PM – SOLD OUT! 😊

Saturday, February 22, 202 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

Are you ready to get in shape after the holidays? Well, here’s your chance. Beginning January 7, 2020 corrective/strengthening exercise sessions will be offered at the Art Center. These sessions will be presented by Marlene Sides, RN, CES. Marlene is a NASM certified personal fitness trainer and Registered Nurse. Prior to moving to Ridge Spring, Marlene owned and operated Redefining Fitness. She has additional certifications in corrective fitness for individuals with special physical/mobility needs. Sessions will be offered every Tuesday and Thursday beginning January 7th. Each session will last one hour and be customized to the health and fitness needs of each participant. Equipment for strengthening exercises provided. Drop-ins welcome to come see and join in!

Place: Art Center Ridge Spring 108 Maintenance Building Circle

Dates: January 7 and 9 January 14 and 16 January 21 and 23 January 28 and 30

Session One: 4 pm- 5 pm

Session Two: 6 pm - 7 pm

Fee: $5 per session

Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

Review from David Marshall James: "Lost Hills" by Lee Goldberg

This police procedural/mystery novel by accomplished author Lee Goldberg partners a young, dedicated detective, Eve Ronin, with a doughnut-chomping, counting-the-days-till-retirement, seasoned detective in the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, Duncan Pavone.

Eve is something of a modern marvel, a "millions of YouTube hits" sensation who, as a police officer, happened to headlock a famous film star in a parking-lot slap-down with his girlfriend ("Look at my Lambo. There's bitch puke all over the suede dash.")

With lookie-loo camera phones recording Eve's celebrity smackdown, her own celebrity was cemented like footprints at Grauman's Chinese Theater.

However, Eve remains a sincere, justice-for-all protector of the greater good. Meanwhile, her mother, a longtime Hollywood extra who's delusional about her star status, among other trumped-up attributes, frequently chides her daughter for not enhancing her looks and not cashing in on her notoriety with movie and TV deals.

"Mommie Interfere-est" heads a well-crafted list of Goldberg's secondary characters.

For sure, Eve is the star of this show, whether she would seek such a spotlight in "real" life or not. She exhibits the intuition of Jessica Fletcher (as played by Angela Lansbury) and the street chops of Christine Cagney (as portrayed by Sharon Gless).

Her case in this novel is a chilling one, a domestic bloodbath so rampant and raging that it seems to be the result of someone with a personal relationship with the family in question.

Yet this isn't a run-of-the-mill, "round up the usual suspects" scenario. After all, we're in Southern California, and there's no dearth of psychotic and sociopathic residents.

Even though there's a seemingly endless drought-- and accompanying fire-- in Goldberg's setting, his Greater Los Angeles envelops and influences the participants' actions on every level. This is L.A. detective storytelling at its finest, with the unsettling starkness of "Dragnet" lightened with a David E. Kelley quirkiness.

Eve may not be seeking the limelight, but some actress with a hot production company may well see what "Mommie Interfere-est' does, and boy, is she ever ready for her close-up.

Harriet's Garden Tips: December is one of the few months when there is very little to done in the garden. If a lovely warm day comes along, prune and reshape shrubs and trees needing attention. Isn't it nice that the time for pruning shrubs comes at a time of year when greens are needed for holiday decorations. Soak evergreen cuttings in water for 12 hours before making swags or wreaths. These cuttings may be stored in a cool place for several weeks if kept moist.

REMINDERS

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

Every 1^st Thursday: Audibel Hearing Center in Ridge Spring

Monday, December 16, 2019

December 16, 2019

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

Work has truly begun on the parking lot. The dying oak trees have been removed and the pavement that I remember so many people tripping on during the Ridge Spring Famers Market. A reminder that Leonard Bell will be there Saturday December 21 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon with collards, mustard greens turnips and sweet potatoes. Pull out those family recipes. My way of cooking collards was letting my mother-in-law Florence Householder cook them. Now my daughter cooks them. It skipped a generation.

Friends of Ridge Spring will meet December 19 at 5:30 at Town Hall. Please attend and help continue support the progress that our town has been making over the years.

ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY Searching for that perfect last- minute gift? We have lots to offer at the Art Center in Ridge Spring! Not only do we have wonderful art, Christmas decorations, jewelry and other beautiful items, we also offer gift cards that can go towards art or you can give someone you love a class at the Art Center! The new year is almost here and we have some great NEW classes to get your year off to a wonderful start! Check out all we have to offer and sign yourself (or someone you love!) up now while space is still available. Contact information for each class is below or you can always stop by the Art Center Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm. We are on Facebook and don’t forget to check out our website at http://ridgespringlovesart.weebly.com.

Pen Turning Class Saturday, January 11 & 25, 2020 10 AM - 11:30 AM, 12 PM - 1:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 3 PM One student per each hour & half session. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829- 4929 to book your session and directions. Cost: $35 [Includes all supplies to make a custom ink pen] Session will be held in Larry’s workshop. Teacher: Larry Sides Pen Turning Class Saturday, January 18, 2020 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 Are you ready to get in shape after the holidays? Well, here’s your chance. Beginning January 7, 2020 corrective/strengthening exercise sessions will be offered at the Art Center. These sessions will be presented by Marlene Sides, RN, CES. Marlene is a NASM certified personal fitness trainer and Registered Nurse. Prior to moving to Ridge Spring, Marlene owned and operated Redefining Fitness. She has additional certifications in corrective fitness for individuals with special physical/mobility needs. Sessions will be offered every Tuesday and Thursday beginning January 7th. Each session will last one hour and be customized to the health and fitness needs of each participant. Equipment for strengthening exercises provided. Drop-ins welcome to come see and join in! Place: Art Center Ridge Spring 108 Maintenance Building Circle Dates: January 7 and 9 January 14 and 16 January 21 and 23 January 28 and 30 Session One: 4 pm- 5 pm Session Two: 6 pm - 7 pm Fee: $5 per session Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

Josie Rodgers:

I can’t believe it’s less than a week until we celebrate the birth of Christ! I’ve been reading a chapter in Luke each night and will finish on Christmas Eve (24 chapters). What a great reminder not only of His birth but of his life and miracles and sufferings, all for me. All for you!

St. William Catholic Church celebrated last Sunday with an old-fashioned reading of the Christmas story and sing-a-long. Church members brought lots of homemade goodies and gifts, and there was a special visit from St. Nick himself. There is nothing like spending time with family and friends at church!

RS Baptist presented their cantata Sun night complete with adorable appearances by the children and a special cameo of Gracie Kelly as Mary. This annual event is always full of amazing music and special additions. Mildred Webb does a stupendous job of preparing the choir for these occasions. The church was decorated so beautifully with white Christmas trees and white sparkling garland and twinkling lights all around. It was perfect décor from the wedding the night before. Congratulations to Morgan Derrick & Hunter Harrelson who were married at RS Baptist Church last Saturday.

RSM Elem: A 4K Evening Program will be held from Jan. 27-Mar. 30, 2020, at RSME. This program is for students not already part of an Aiken County 4K program. To register or obtain more info, call 803-663-4204 or email ACPSD Coordinator of Early Learning Programs Ann Olsen at aolsen@acpsd.net. Only 120 slots are available throughout the county, so don’t wait.

RSM High: Last Friday, the Culture Club presented a Hispanic Heritage Celebration for middle and high school students. The guest speaker was our very own Spanish teacher, Mrs. Margaret Armendariz. She gave a little of her background with Hispanic culture as well as teaching. Club members presented history, poetry, songs, dances, and even a piñata demonstration. The finale was a line dance with invitations for other students and faculty to join in! Afterwards, club members and special guests, including parents) enjoyed cookies and hot cocoa in the library. Mrs. Casey Spire is the sponsor of the Culture Club as well as the ESL instructor for the mid and high school. Club officers include Nancy Lopez, president; Charity Elam, vice-president; & Lizbeth Figueroa-Gonzalez, secretary. The Culture Club includes students from all backgrounds and ethnicities.

Congratulations to football coach Brian Smith who was honored at the Carolina Panthers game on Sun., Dec. 15, as one of their High School Football Coaches of the Week. Coach even made it on the jumbo tron!

On Dec. 10, the English Honor Society sponsored Cookies and Stories with Mrs. Claus. A dear friend of Mrs. Josie Rodgers, Mrs. Claus flew to RSM to visit with the community’s children and take messages back to Santa. She walked around while the children enjoyed crafts, games, coloring, and snacks. Then she read Santa is Coming to the Carolinas and The Biggest, Best Snowman. The winner of the ornament number guessing contest was Reagan Holsomback. Each child received a giant Snoopy coloring book and a mini monster truck to take home. NEHS members as well as other student volunteers manned every station and spent time with the children. Almost 50 people were in attendance. The members already have big plans for next year’s event which will be at our new school!

The Beta Club & NEHS are sponsoring a food drive with a great incentive for the students. There will be two bins to fill with canned goods. One bin is for Coach Smith, and the other bin for Mr. Moots. The winner will receive a terrific prize: a pie in the face! Coach Smith suggested the loser have to shave his head, but Mr. “Hair” Moots was NOT on board with that incentive! Dr. Webb approved either reward; he & Coach Smith are already smoothly shaven on top! At any rate, we need canned goods to share with our local food bank. Send yours in and identify which person you’d like to have pied in the face!

The Beta Club is also sponsoring a coat drive. Please bring clean, gently used (or new!) coats and jackets of all sizes to the school or give to a Beta member. For more info, contact Josie Rodgers or Kelly Bedenbaugh. Let’s share the warmth this winter!

Review from David Marshall James: "Nothing Ventured" by Jeffrey Archer

"Spot on," "Right-o," and "Jolly good show" to this first novel in a new series by the much accomplished Jeffrey Archer.

The author sets the clock back to the mid 1980s, in London, spotlighting up-and-coming detective William Warwick, whose family background should have taken him to Queen's Court, not Scotland Yard, as his father is a highly regarded Queen's Counselor amidst the bewigged and robed defenders of the laws of the realm.

However, it's William's older sister, Grace, who makes Papa proud on that front, stepping up to the bar, as young William follows his heart's desire into the Metropolitan Police Force, walking a beat with an "old timer" mentor for two years before sitting his detective's exam.

Because of his avocational and academic background in art history, WW lands in the Art and Antiquities department at Scotland Yard, where the leading case, going on seven years, involves the theft of Rembrandt's most famous painting, The Syndics of the Clothmakers' Guild, from the Fitzmolean, a London museum given over to the Dutch Masters.

Here, Archer plays a little loose with the facts; nevertheless, there is such a painting, and there is a Fitzmolean museum in London, yet the painting is actually on display in Amsterdam, along with masterpieces by other Dutch Masters.

And we don't mean cigars, for those who treasure the memory of Rembrandt's Syndics on boxes of the onetime ubiquitous restaurant- and drugstore-counter feature.

Naturally, WW is going to get in on the art heist, along with assorted other cases of less grandiose dimensions, including a fellow who's forging authorial autographs in allegedly signed first editions for antique bookstores, as well as a case of allegedly sunken historical treasure.

Then, there's a murder allegedly committed by the father of someone who becomes close to WW in the course of his investigation of the Rembrandt, which makes for a smashing subplot.

Archer keeps the action juggling on multiple fronts, never suffering a dull page. For readers of well-versed novelists, Archer may not be a Dutch Master, but he's most definitely a master. And you can peel the cellophane off that cigar and smoke it.

Harriet's Garden Tips: The best way to prevent winter damage to shrubs is to select hardy species. As you tinker with your landscape over the winter plan to consult publications and "google" sites like Clemson Extension that contain information on the climate zones for the shrubs you are interested in planting. It is better to select cold-hardy species in the first place rather than attempt to protect tender plants later.

REMINDERS

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

Every 1^st Thursday: Audibel Hearing Center in Ridge Spring

Monday, December 9, 2019

December 9, 2019

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

December 7, 1941 was the day the United States entered World War II as a result of a sneak attack on Pearl Harbor. We remember this date as “the day that lives in infamy” as quoted by our president at the time, FDR. My mother and father remembered what they were doing when they heard. . Many of us remember it from the movies we have seen and history books read over the years. How many of us remember certain dates, too, such as 9/11. That is one of my generation’s days to remember. Let us look to the future as being filled with joy and hope for all mankind

Qwendolyn Etheredge:Thanks to all that came out to the Ridge Spring Christmas Tree lighting. We appreciate the songs from Calidonia Youth Choir and Harvey's Angels. Beautiful dance numbers from the Christy Mills group. A special thanks to Rev. Dr. Oscar Boyd, Betty's Graphix, DJ Crossover and Ava's Paparazzi. We truly had a good time with our community.

Work has begun on the Town Square. The dying oak trees have been removed along Main Street..

On the Saturdays of December 14 and 21 Leonard Bell will be on Ridge Spring town square from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon with collards, mustard greens turnips and sweet potatoes. I have learned that you can boil sweet potatoes with their skins on, cool, peel and whip up into the best sweet potato casserole.

Ridge Spring sponsored a cat neutering clinic and I helped. The limit was to be 25 but somehow we ended up with 28. Laura Walker headed it up and it went off like clockwork. There is a cost but look at the benefits to us all. Feral cats are not good for the community. Kittens attract foxes, vultures, dogs, and other animals. Don't forget diseases too. Due to winter weather , there will not be one until February. By the way they will also neuter pets but the cost is increased.

RIDGE SPRING UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: The Advent season is upon us and Pastor Ashley has given us the reason for the season with two outstanding Advent messages. Songs of praise, candles on the Advent wreath and the lovely Christmas tree really sets the mood. Communion will be December 15^th and all are welcome. You don’t have to be a United Methodist or for that matter a member of any church. It is an open table. If you drive on DuBose be sure and look at the Church. The nativity scene is set up right by the sign. RSUMC adopted a family through the Palmetto Project’s Families Helping Families. We have an adult (mom) and four children ages 4, 5,7 and 11. If you are interested in helping with toys or clothes contact a church member to find out how. Presents will be delivered December 14^th. There will be NO church service December 29^th. RSUMC is on Face Book. Visit our page, like us and keep up with the events and activities of the Church. Well done Saluda High School and Ridge Spring Monetta High football teams!! Proud of ya’ll.

ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Come on by to the Art Center in Ridge Spring to see all of the wonderful holiday gifts we have for sale. Ornaments, decorations as well as lots of beautiful photography, paintings, ceramics and more! Just the sort of thing someone would love to find under the Christmas tree this year. Make us your one-stop shop for all of your holiday gifts! Open Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm. Don’t forget we have classes, too, just like us on Facebook to keep informed about what’s coming up next!

Pen Turning Class

Saturday, January 11 & 25, 2020 10 AM - 11:30 AM, 12 PM - 1:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 3 PM

One student per each hour & half session. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

Cost: $35 [Includes all supplies to make a custom ink pen] Session will be held in Larry’s workshop. Teacher: Larry Sides

Trip to Belgium by Mary Edmonds: My father, Joe Watson; my son, Michael Edmonds; and I are busy buying hats, gloves, scarfs, and long underwear for our trip to Belgium on Tuesday, December 10. (It was 31 degrees there and snowing yesterday.)

The plans for this trip began last summer when Michael decided that his grandfather should go back to Belgium for the 75^th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. On the internet, Michael found a history of the 75^th Division (Daddy’s division) in World War II that allowed us to develop a rough map of his service in Belgium. Then we had the great luck of being introduced (by email) to Bob Gonings, a Belgium guide and expert on the Battle of the Bulge who conducts World War II tours. He and his team have done additional research and will take Daddy back to the actual places he fought. He has also arranged for numerous other experiences.

The Belgium people are extremely grateful to the American soldiers who liberated them from Nazi occupation. This has been evident from the wonderful welcome we’ve received from the Belgium people. I contacted the National War Museum in Bastogne and they invited us to several events. In fact, Daddy has been invited to participate in more activities than we can work into our schedule. (If we could extend our stay until December 22, we could stay in a castle.)

Some of the highlights of our trip include: On Thursday we will visit the Henri Chapelle Cemetery, where almost 8,000 American soldiers who died during the Battle of the Bulge are buried. Bob has arranged for us to visit the grave of Daddy’s sergeant. We will also meet with a Belgium lady who was a child when Daddy’s unit arrived in the hamlet of Werm, Flanders. We will visit the town of Ville du Bois where Daddy was wounded and which Bob says has changed very little since the war. The beautiful Ardennes Forest will be the backdrop to our tours. On Friday an 81-year old Belgium man who was a child during the war will drive Daddy in a World War II-era jeep in a parade in Manhay (an area where Daddy fought). On Saturday, we will visit the Bastogne Museum and the Mardasson Monument, which is dedicated to the American soldiers who died or were wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. In the evening Daddy will participate in a reception with the King and Queen of Belgium. On Sunday, he will interact with Belgium people in a “Meet the Veterans” event in Bastogne. Finally, if we have time and strength, Michael will drive us to the Rhine near where Daddy crossed as his division moved into Germany. This trip will not only honor Daddy’s service, but we will remember the thousands of young American soldiers who sacrificed--many gave their lives—so that people far across the oceans could live free.

Josie Rodgers:

What an exciting week we’ve had! The RSM High football team is the 1A Upper-State Champion! They played for State last Friday night, and though they did not bring home the win, they are certainly Champions anyway! Coach Rodgers shared words of wisdom with the team Tues of championship week. I was privileged to be there to hear those words, watch the boys’ reactions, and take pictures. Mark and I surely wanted to be at Benedict Friday night to support his alma mater, but he was the head coach of the North team in the SCISA North South All-Star game in St. Matthews. We are also very proud of our neighbor, the Saluda Tigers, for clinching the 2A State Championship. I think I could see the fireworks from my house! I would love to shoot off fireworks for our Trojans, too! They’ve had a stellar year, and we are so very proud of them! From this football-loving football coach’s wife, congratulations to all!

RSM High: All week, the RSM Trojan family celebrated, supported, and encouraged our 1A Upper-State Champion Football Team. Several teachers and staff sneaked in last Sunday to “deck the halls” in honor of the champions and in anticipation of the state championship game. Balloons, streamers, posters, footballs, poster jerseys, and more pumped up the school spirit even more. Different organizations and individuals fed the team each day, and Coach Brian Smith had several football “legends” speak to the players each day. Lee Sawyer, Mark Rodgers, Phil Strickland, and Gary Smallen were all honored to share their thoughts and encouragement with the Trojans. On Friday, the team was dismissed around 1:30, and to their great surprise, the student body lined the sides of the sidewalk from the gym to the bus for them to walk through. Then the students went back into the school and out the front entrance to give them a very excited send-off as the bus drove out of the parking lot led by a police escort. The surprise pep rally send-off was on Facebook Live! The bus traveled to Seawells for dinner before the big game. The stands were full of Trojan fans who came from far and wide as well as many Saluda fans who stayed to watch this incredible game. The outcome was not what the team and fans wanted, but those young men are still champions! We will continue our support, encouragement, and excitement for this group of athletes so they will continue to strive for their best.

The Beta Club & NEHS is selling Christmas and Exam Grams for $1 each. The Christmas stocking cards or pencil shaped cards will include a special message and paired with a special treat. These will be delivered to students during ILT exam week. Contact a Beta or NEHS member for more info.

The Beta Club & NEHS are sponsoring a food drive with a great incentive for the studnets. There will be two bins to fill with canned goods. One bin is for Coach Smith, and the other bin for Mr. Moots. The winner will receive a terrific prize: a pie in the face! Coach Smith suggested the loser have to shave his head, but Mr. “Hair” Moots was NOT on board with that incentive! Dr. Webb approved either reward; he & Coach Smith are already smoothly shaven on top! At any rate, we need canned goods to share with our local food bank. Send yours in and identify which person you’d like to have pied in the face!

Carmen Holley: Art students will visit the Morris Museum in Augusta on Thurs., Dec. 12. They will view The Painter’s Eye exhibit, where they will explore the different techniques painters use to create works of art. They will view and discuss a variety of painting styles and take part in a hands-on activity at the museum. The students will eat lunch at The Mellow Mushroom. The trip is sponsored by Shawn Meekins, a native of Ridge Spring & an alumnus of RSMHS. Currently owner of Meekins Designs Studios in Charlotte, NC, Shawn gives back to his alma mater every year with the intention of inspiring young artists to reach for their dreams.

Harriet's Garden Tips: Do you photograph your gardens in the spring and summer when everything is in bloom? It's all so beautiful. Have you ever considered the advantages of photo graphing your gardens in winter? When you are thinking of fall color or winter interest, you can compare the summer and winter pictures to know where you need size, color or texture. Be sure to make quick notes with the photos whether you have them developed or downloaded onto your computer. In about 12 months, you'll have an all season photographic record of your garden. Then you can revisit a season anytime of the year.

REMINDERS

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

Every 1^st Thursday: Audibel Hearing Center in Ridge Spring

Monday, December 2, 2019

December 2, 2019

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

Christmas Season is here. I hear on the news that there seems to be a Christmas tree shortage. Remember, we have three Christmas Tree farms near us, Wright's Christmas Tree Farm. Tom Sawyer's Christmas Tree Farm and Matthews Christmas Tree Farm.

Wright's Christmas Tree Farm is located at 255 Christmas Tree Lane, Ward. Tom Sawyers Christmas Tree Farm is located at 402 Uncle Duck Road, Monetta. Matthew's Christmas Tree Farm is located at 1458 Spann Road, Batesburg. Not only do they have trees you can cut down, but there will be trees already cut down. There will be wreaths and greenery, too. Let's decorate!!!!

On the Saturdays of December 14 and 21 Leonard Bell will be on Ridge Spring town square from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon with collards, mustard greens turnips and sweet potatoes.

For the past 17 years I have participated in the Christmas Season in Ridge Spring as a shop owner. The Christmas Open House, Black Friday shopping and Small Business Saturday have been designated events over the past years. It started with Karen Hendrix and me doing a Christmas Open House back those many years ago. Then came small business Saturday. I hope you have seen the ad done by Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is great even though it is sponsored by American Express. This would have been my 18th year. I closed my shop in June. I challenged myself to see what I would buy if I went shopping instead. The bargains were all around for many shops had discounts for the weekend. I found the Christmas tray and pot holders I have been looking for at Mercantile 23, then at Ridge Antique and Dry Goods, I found a water pitcher I needed. On to Carolina Pikens to find the coasters I have been looking to get for at least 2 years for they were backed with cork. Of course on to the Nut House where I found DECAF ground coffee just for me. Haley Bee's had the shawl and jewelry I wanted and at Pat's Corner Antiques I found 8 napkin rings that were appropriate for Christmas, Valentines, and the Fourth of July. I had a great day. Had coffee from the Trolley too. Then there was the Art Center, Cones, Stuff & Things, Rikard's Roadside BBQ, Miquelitos and so much more to visit in this jewel of a community. I forgot, there is also Dollar General for all to use.

ART ASSOCIATION OF RIDGE SPRING & GALLERY

Pen Turning Class

Saturday, January 11 & 25, 2020 10 AM - 11:30 AM, 12 PM - 1:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 3 PM

One student per each hour & half session. Please email {Marlene_Sides@yahoo.com } or Call: 706-829-4929 to book your session and directions.

Cost: $35 [Includes all supplies to make a custom ink pen] Session will be held in Larry’s workshop. Teacher: Larry Sides

Our hours at the Art Center are Friday and Saturday 10-2pm. Check us out on our website https://ridgespringlovesart.weebly.com/ or Facebook at Art Association of Ridge Spring & Gallery. If you want to check out some of our art in another space, we have art for sale at Security Federal Bank. The holidays are almost here and art makes a wonderful gift! Stop by the Art Center or the bank to get some great gifts for friends, family or just for you!

Ridge Farmers Mutual now carries Orangeburg Milling Co. feed,

Review from David Marshall James: “Beating About the Bush" by M.C. Beaton

P.R. entrepreneur turned P.I. agency maven Agatha Raisin is celebrating her 30th novel by going viral, including the popularization of one of her signature catchphrases.

Her sudden celebrity isn't how she would have planned it, but it provides for a high-kickingly humorous escapade from the pen of M.C. Beaton, who performs in across-the-board top form chronicling the latest concerning the (fictitious) Mircester, England, P.I. agency owner in this mystery.

When she's at home, Agatha cozies it up in a Cotswolds village thatched-roof cottage with her two cats and freezer full of microwaveable meals. Never mind the Le Creuset cookware bedecking the kitchen walls. They're there for show.

Well, maybe not, as the reader will discover. Mrs. Raisin (divorced and single at the moment) can always pop over to the Red Lion pub for grub (the improbably combined lasagna and chips being a fave, with a couple of gin-and-tonics as chasers). Or, she can stroll up the lane to the village tearoom for, natch, a spot of tea. Coffee's poured out in the morning, though just black or black-and-white, sans Starbucks frills.

The novel's plot thickens like the tearoom cream as Agatha and her alluring young assistant, Toni Gilmour, are hired on by a Mircester factory in serious need of some damage control, after one of the factory departments burns to a crumbling shell.

Yet, after Agatha and Toni dig deep enough to discover where the proverbial bodies are buried, they find themselves, in British parlance, redundant. However, our Mrs. Raisin can't or won't let go of a bone, particularly when her acumen and reputation have been challenged.

Even so, she often falls foil to her various vanities, particularly pertaining to her appearance. After all, her appetite for gentleman callers remains unabated, if somewhat thwarted here by situations beyond her control, if not her caustic commentary.

If only she realized how scintillating she still is, 30 books on. Nothing like being the center of attention-- eh, Aggie?

Josie Rodgers:

RSM High: The mighty Trojans traveled to Wagener to take on the War Eagles to clinch the 1A Upper-State Championship title! The chilly weather didn’t hinder the Trojan Pride from descending upon the WS field. The RSM cheerleaders’ sign said, “Here comes the BOOM!” And BOOM it did! RSM shocked WS, who was undefeated this season and beat RSM back in October 40-6. This time, the Trojans were more than ready for the War Eagles, who turned over the ball multiple times. The Trojans walked away with a 26-22 victory and a trip to the 1A State Championship Game. This is the second time in the history of the school that the football team has played for a state championship. The game will be this Friday, Dec. 6, at 8 pm at the Benedict College football stadium. Get there early; Saluda plays at 5, and we all want to support our local teams!

After Thanksgiving, the Beta Club and NEHS will be selling Christmas and Exam Grams for $1 each. The Christmas stocking cards or pencil shaped cards will include a special message and paired with a special treat. These will be delivered to students during ILT exam week. Contact a Beta or NEHS member for more info.

On Tues., Dec. 10, the NEHS and Beta Club will sponsor Cookies and Stories with Mrs. Claus at 6 pm. This is a FREE event provided for our community children. Kids can play games, create crafts, enjoy snacks, and listen to Mrs. Claus read stories. They can even giver her messages for Santa! For more info, contact Josie Rodgers or Kelly Bedenbaugh.

The Beta Club will also be sponsoring a coat drive. Please bring clean, gently used (or new!) coats and jackets of all sizes to the school or give to a Beta member. For more info, contact Josie Rodgers or Kelly Bedenbaugh.

Jeff Clamp: Ten students from the band program participated in honors band clinics Nov. 21-23. Eighth graders Landon Hastings, Natalie Maltese, & Bennie Padgett and 7^th graders Levi Garrett, Cassandra Oakman, & Maryann Sterling attended the Limestone College Middle School Honor Band Clinic in Gaffney. They rehearsed music Thurs evening & Friday and performed in a concert Fri night with students from 35 other middle schools across the state. They also got to have some fun bowling and playing video games at “The Big E” entertainment center Thurs night. High School students Johnathon Cumbee, Joanna Kaiser, Chesley Cooper, and Kyla Padgett attended the Newberry College Honor Band Clinic with band members from over 20 high schools. Auditions were held Thurs, and students enjoyed a concert by the Newberry College Wind Ensemble and the Newberry Jazz “Big Band.” They also rehearsed with the honor band. They then rehearsed all day Fri and again Sat morning and presented a concert Sat afternoon.

RSM’s Farm to Table: Place your orders by Wed for produce on Friday! Contact Janice Douda or the school.

HH: Hint for cooking this time of the year. I always try to replicate my Uncle Broadus's Dressing. Each year, it gets better until I think I remember and can do it alone with just a glance at the recipe. From now on, my number one rule before I start cooking is to read the whole recipe. It helps to minimize mistakes. I forgot to mix all the wet ingredients together first.. Mixing eggs into an already mixed batter is not easy.

Harriet's Garden Tips: This is a great time to soil test. Clemson Extensions will do this for a small fee. Plant ornamental trees and shrubs to allow for good root growth before growing season. Crepe Myrtles can be gently pruned. Plant cuttings of Christmas cactus after they bloom. Do not over fertilize indoor plant is winter.

REMINDERS

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

Every 1^st Thursday: Audibel Hearing Center in Ridge Spring