November 30, 2015

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

The Shoppes of Ridge Spring had their own extravaganza with Black Friday and Saturday Extravaganza. It was a wonderful success.  So much so that the Shoppes of Ridge Spring want to have “Customer Appreciation Day” on December 12^th.  There will be more about this in the next column.

Now we get in gear for Christmas season.  The Christmas Tree Farms are gearing up for the season too.  We have several around our community for you to choose from.  The weather has been pretty good for it was 70 degrees Saturday and the commentators for the Palmetto Bowl commented how they broke into a sweat just getting into the stadium.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be Sunday December 6.  Santa will be coming too.  The group singing will be from Pastor Key's group from Helping Hands Ministry. We will begin at 4:30 with the tree being lit and Santa arriving soon after.

The Green Thumb Garden Club will again host the Christmas Tour of Homes on December 13^th from 2:00 to 5:00.  Tickets may be purchased the day of the tour at all the homes.  Tickets are $10.00 for the tour. The homes on tour are Gene Ray and Sue Fulmer, Kevin and Ann Marie Taylor, and John and Nola Burger. Two churches will be part of the tour with Ridge Spring Baptist Church and Ridge Spring United Methodist Church. Cake and spiced ea will be served at the Joe and Betty Watson Family Life Center Which is next door to the Ridge Spring United Methodist Church.

Leonard Bell will be at the Ridge Spring Town Square selling fresh produce on December 12^th and 19^th with January 31 being his last day until June.

Joanne Crouch, AARS, president

     ART CLASS FOR KIDS

      Christmas Workshop-December 5th from 10-12

Children ages 5 & up.  Design Christmas ornaments just in time to decorate for the Christmas season.  The cost is $20 for the first child, $15 for the second.  All supplies provided.  Mary Zelmer and Barbara Yon, instructors. Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com to register.

      We again have the pleasure to offer another Silk Scarf Painting Class with Libby Bussinah on Saturday, December 12th from 9-1.  Cost is $45.  All supplies will be supplied.  Contact Joanne Crouch to register @ (803)685-5577 (leave message) or email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to register.

Josie Rodgers:

Our first Thanksgiving without Leagrace was bittersweet.  Even without our precious princess, we have so much to be grateful for.  Let us not forget to praise God in the storm and thank Him for all of the many blessings and gifts he bestows upon us each day.  Decorating the Christmas tree was very hard this year, but I am grateful to have the opportunity to celebrate our Savior’s birth and teach my children and others about God’s love and his Heavenly Kingdom.  I am thankful for the chance to prepare myself for His coming—Christmas AND His final appearance.  I’ll see Pooky then!  And as always, I know where she is and what she’s doing, and though we miss her with a pain that is sharp and constant, we take comfort in the fact that she is dancing and singing in Heaven.  I know I say that all the time, but it’s exciting!  And it keeps me sane.

The annual Rodgers Family Thanksgiving Cup was played Thanksgiving afternoon.  Mark’s team of Annalee, Aiden, and Taylor took on Lang’s team of Isaac, Jon, and Savannah.  It was a hard-fought game (what with no referee and all!) and was close until Savannah batted the ball out of her opponent’s reach.  Lang’s team won again, and Savannah was dubbed MVP.  More exciting than the actual game was the banter between the teams and between Mark and Annalee.  It is hilarious and keeps us laughing until the last down.  My people have already started practicing new moves for next year!

RSM Elem News (Rene Miller):  Music classes, under the direction of Becky Hughes,  will present a Christmas musical entitled The Twelve Days of Christmas at 9 am Dec. 18.

RSM Middle News:  Members of the 4-H participated in a lock-in recently.  Sponsor Crystal Coleman said that Clemson Extension came in and showed them how to birth a baby calf and build working robots Friday.  On Saturday, the 4-H had an opportunity to learn basic first aid from Ms. Middlebrooks and had a session again with Clemson Extension about ATV safety.  The parents came together and fed the students and the students had a blast. 

RSM High News: The Trojans traveled to Lamar with a large fan following to fight for the Upper-State Championship.  While they didn’t bring home that title, they certainly earned the title of Warriors with Heart.  We are very proud of these young men and their coaches for an incredible season.  School spirit has been running high this year, and we hope it continues on through basketball season and into the classrooms. 

The FFA is sponsoring a school dance and collecting pet toys and pet food to donate to the ASPCA.  Items will be collected on Dec. 11 in the RSM High cafetorium as admission to the school dance. No monetary funds will be accepted.

Book Review from David Marshall James:

"Creating the Illusion:  A Fashionable History of Hollywood Costume Designers" by Jay Jorgensen and Donald L. Scoggins:

This "epi-" tome of cinema glam gowns and glad rags from the Griffith-ian era forward sparkles like the sequins on a Gilbert Adrian confection for Greta Garbo, or a Travis Banton dazzler for Marlene Dietrich, who was fond of freebie-ing her film wardrobe, although Paramount said, "No," to an eight-thousand-dollar dilly for "Angel" (1937).

   Eight G's for a costume at a time when that sum could have purchased a house, with plenty left over for furnishings:  No wonder the era is known as "The Golden Age of Hollywood."  Moreover, as the multitudinous photographs in this lustrously illustrated volume display, many of the golden gowns are nothing short of works of art, as envisioned by the more than fifty designers who are featured herein.

   From one angle, an ultra-luxe (marble-topped, gilt-legged) coffee-table volume, this oversize work also serves as a reference source, with biographical highlights of designers both well-known (Edith Head, Orry-Kelly, Jean Louis) and less-so.  The text underscores the fickleness of studio politics and temperamental producers, which caused many of these great talents to jump ship and change lanes during the course of their careers.  Some returned to the stage, while others opened their own boutiques or free-lanced for individuals.  Some stars flexed enough pull to demand a certain out-of-studio designer for a particular picture.

  Television attracted some displaced designers:  Lucille Ball hauled Edward Stevenson, from her RKO days, onboard "I Love Lucy" as well as her later TV offerings.  Who can forget Lucy's and Ethel's burlapped Parisian couture, with ice-bucketed chapeaux?  William Travilla, one of Marilyn Monroe's favorite designers from Twentieth Century-Fox, went on to design for "Dallas" during the 1980s.  Bob Mackie raised the curtain on his Hollywood career (which included Carol Burnett’s and Cher’s shows) by bedazzling Judy Garland on her 1963-64 CBS variety show. Judy-- by that point well-versed in the Dietrich-ian method of wardrobe acquisition-- made off with her Mackie's, popping up in them on concert stages for the remainder of her life.

   Hollywood's Golden Age is gone with the wind-- gone are the vast studio sewing rooms and beading departments-- but Walter Plunkett's green-plush-curtain Scarlett O'Hara dress remains:  One of the great works of art on display in this much-deserved tribute to the men and women who designed for Hollywood's glitz-and-glamour extravaganzas.

Reminders:

Dec. 6: Christmas Tree Lighting at Gazebo

Dec. 12: Shoppes of Ridge Spring Customer Appreciation Day

Dec. 13: Green Thumb Garden Club Tour of Homes

Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wednesday 9:00 to 4:30, Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,

Every 2^nd & 4^th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 

Every 2^nd 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 

November 23, 2015

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

It is already Thanksgiving week.  The weather is changing a lot the leaves are showing color and then dropping, time for turkey and all the trimmings…How fortunate we are.  Must admit though there are a lot of Christmas decorations up and actually I began to see them before Halloween. 

The Shoppes of Ridge Spring are planning their own extravaganza.  We are having Black Friday and Saturday Extravaganza with great deals in all the shops, including Harriet’s Garden.  There will be refreshments, too.  Live music on Saturday will be enjoyed by all.  The Shoppes will stay open until 6:00.  Come by and get that present for someone and it can be for you.  Christmas items are all over the place.  Hope to see you there. 

Leonard Bell was at the Ridge Spring Town Square selling fresh produce.  He will be there Tuesday and then on December 12^th and 19^th with January 31 being his last day until June.

JOHNSTON FARMER'S & ARTIST'S MARKET from 4 - 6 p.m. in front of the Library/Warehouse. The market will be held on Monday, November 23rd bringing you your Holiday fixins'.  There will not be a market on Thursday, November 26th. .  For more information contact Donna at 803-275-0010 or Anne at 803-480-1093

At the Friends of Ridge Spring Meeting Thursday night, Mayor Pat Asbill reported that just about half of the spots for the Peach Tree 23 Yard sale have already been rented. We are considering having an event during peach blooming season.  Please remember that the Friends of Ridge Spring (FORS) meets on the third Thursday at 5:00 PM at the library and all are welcome.  No food is served but we meet early enough that you may dine at home or in a restaurant of your choice.

Josie Rodgers:

This Saturday, Shop Small, Eat Small!  It’s small business Saturday!  It is one of many opportunities to support our local businesses by avoiding the crowds and shopping leisurely right in our own hometowns.  You can also support local restaurants by dining there versus a fast food chain.  Support your local businesses!  They have a lot more to offer than those chain stores:  high quality customer service, unique gifts, delicious food, and even friendship! Ridge Spring has some of the best little places to shop and eat!

I am one lucky girl.  I got to go on a date with my dad Sunday!  He felt good enough and needed to get out and see the world and sunshine.  We went to Aiken and ate at Longhorn.  He ate almost his entire meal!  This is a milestone for him!  We had such a good time talking and just being together

RSM Middle News:  Members of the 4-H participated in a lock-in this past weekend at the middle school.  They took part in sessions including calf birthing, robotics, ATV Safety, Basic First Aid, Nutrition, and some team building activities.  Sponsor Crystal Coleman said the kids were super excited about this event and had a wonderful time!

RSM High News:  Dr. Jackson, head of the Biology Department at USC Aiken, will visit Mr. Carpenter’s classes at RSM High Nov. 23 and discuss the different research opportunities that students have at USC Aiken and the possibilities that research has for the future. His particular research is focused in the fields of Microbiology and Immunology. Before becoming a professor, Dr. Jackson taught at Strom Thurmond High School, so he is experienced in deciding to pursue education to better his career.

The FFA is sponsoring a school dance and collecting pet toys and pet food to donate to the ASPCA.  Items will be collected on December 11 in the RSM High School Cafetorium as admission to a school dance. No monetary funds will be accepted.

Art Contest (Carmen Holley):  On Nov. 17, Art 2, 3, & 4 Students participated in an art contest sponsored by Shawn Meekins of Meekins Studios in Charlotte.  Mr. Meekins graduated from RSM in 2000; he was even awarded the Trojan Award his senior year for outstanding character.  Mr. Meekins explained that he wanted to give back to his high school, specifically to its art department that helped inspire him to pursue creative endeavors upon graduation.  Meekins attended The Art Institute of Atlanta for Graphic Design and received its Outstanding Leadership Award while in attendance.  Mr. Meekins was accompanied by his father, Gerald Meekins, who still lives in Ridge Spring.  The two men took turns sharing insightful wisdom with students regarding determination, diligence, and holding on to a vision with passion.  Their words of encouragement will not soon be forgotten, nor will their gesture of kindness in taking their time to help guide students along a path of success.         

The art students were challenged to draw two unrelated objects or a celebrity they admired.  Kadaija James won $75 for her drawing of Jhene Aiko.  Josefina Lopez won $50 for her drawing of her integration of two unrelated objects:  an apple and a butterfly.  Rachel Burger won $25 for her drawing of two unrelated objects: a small box from Nicaragua and a shell from Key West.  Linet Figueroa won $5 and an Honorable Mention for her drawing of Stephen Curry.  Mr. Meekins has plans to sponsor another contest in January.  Students will design a logo for Ridge Spring Monetta Middle/High School that can be used on T-shirts, cups, and bags.  Art students are excited to begin brainstorming ideas for the project!

RSM Elem News (Rene Miller):

 Music classes are working on the Christmas musical entitled The Twelve Days of Christmas which will be performed at 9 am Dec. 18.

Bullying Prevention Policy: At Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary, we strive to create a positive learning environment where our students feel safe and ready to learn. Students are expected to exhibit positive character traits and treat one another with kindness and respect. RS-M Elementary has developed a Bullying Prevention Policy to ensure the well-being of all students. If a student is bullied, the student, or their parent/guardian should make a report to the child’s teacher, school counselor, or an administrator. A report may be made via conference, by phone, or by completing a Bullying Report Form located on the school website.

Fifth Grade Walk/Jog Club: Coach Shealy is starting a 5th grade walk/jog program.  It will take place on Friday mornings from 7:15 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. All 5th graders are invited to participate. Students will learn how to plan and implement a program to improve their cardiovascular fitness. Students have received a permission form. Please return this form to Coach Shealy by November 18th. The first meeting will be Friday, November  20th, in the gym. Please encourage your child to participate.

Joanne Crouch, AARS, president

     ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

Many folks have requested classes for children.  We have a class to offer for the younger artists.  Christmas Workshop-December 5th from 10-12 Children ages 5 & up

Book Review by David Marshall James:

  “Home by Nightfall” by Charles Finch--Sir Charles Lenox, MP turned PI in Victorian London, has plenty on his plate in this ninth volume of Lenoxian adventures by Charles Finch.

   Keeping tabs on the employees in his detective agency; keeping up with his two business partners, who are indulging in a protracted flirtation; and keeping up with his competitors, particularly a former partner, is enough to send anyone dashing across the lane for a pint of fortification.

   As the novel opens, the capital is abuzz with the disappearance of a famed German concert pianist, who has taken a powder following a performance.  Lenox & Co. would love to sink their investigative teeth into the disappearing German streudel-of-a-case.  Meanwhile, Lady Jane Lenox is planning a fund-raising luncheon, soup to sherbet, to benefit a children's hospital.  The Queen may make an appearance, but she's waffling.

   However, the thrust of the novel is Sir Charles's return to his ancestral home in Sussex with older brother Edmund, still an MP for Markethouse, the nearby village.  Edmund's wife, Molly, has died most unexpectedly a few months before the action of the novel commences, and Charles fears that the resulting sorrow may extinguish his brother.

   So, when Charles learns that Edmund is taking off two weeks in order to manage family estate business back in Sussex, nothing can hold him in London-- not the agency, not the dangling mystery of the pianist, nor the waffling Queen herself.

It's not as if Charles will be flipping cards or playing himself in chess.  No, a gentleman from Markethouse is seriously spooked over several incidents, and he engages Charles to investigate what turns out to be a burgeoning matter that will overwhelm the entire town.

   The author's placement of the Lenoxes on their familiar stomping grounds makes for a British country mystery with wisps of Austen, Conan Doyle, Dickens, and Mrs. Gaskell in the refreshing air and bucolic surroundings.  This novel rolls by faster than any preceding it in the series.  Finch seems much more at home in his rural locales, as in "The Fleet Street Murders" and "A Death in the Small Hours," or even in the Oxford of "The September Society."  Lenox evidently performs best when he can draw a deep breath of clean air.

Reminders:

Nov.27 & 28: Shoppes of Ridge Spring Black Extravaganza

Dec. 6: Christmas Tree lighting for the Town

Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wednesday 9:00 to 4:30, Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,

Every 2^nd & 4^th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 

Every 2^nd 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 

November 16, 2015

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

It is hard to believe that next week is Thanksgiving.  We have so much to be thankful for.

Yet in Paris there were terrible events that took place.  My heart goes out to the people so wounded and lost loved ones by so horrible an idea. Pope Francis spoke out and said that God does not represent such hate and such devastation.  Thank you, Pope Francis and all the other leaders and people of the world for uniting with France.  I do too. “Je suis Paris!!!”

Last week we honored veterans on Veteran’s Day.  It commemorates the end of the “Great War” which was actually World War I. I have a history book that was written in the late 1920s and it is amazing their reporting of the history of that War. My husband and I are of the generation that our fathers and/or mothers went through World War II. My husband and I are of the generation that went through Vietnam.  You cannot help but wonder what our future holds of our children and grandchildren.  Again let us be thankful for what we do have and what our future holds.

Boy, did I get philosophical today???

The Shoppes of Ridge Spring are planning our own day after Thanksgiving.  There will be specials for all.  There will be more information in next week’s column.

Joanne Crouch, AARS, president

     ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

Many folks have requested classes for children.  We have not one but two classes to offer for the younger artists. 

     Childrens’s Collage Class-NOVEMBER 21ST FROM 10-12

Children ages 5 and up will learn the art of collage.  Students will complete at least two collages focusing on the Fall season and Thanksgiving.  The cost is $20 for first child and $15 for the second and all supplies will be provided.  Barbara Yon and Mary -Zelmer, instructors.  Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com.

      Christmas Workshop-December 5th from 10-12

Children ages 5 & up.  Design Christmas ornaments just in time to decorate for the Christmas season.  The cost is $20 for the first child, $15 for the second.  All supplies provided.  Mary Zelmer and Barbara Yon, instructors. Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com to register.

      We again have the pleasure to offer another Silk Scarf Painting Class with Libby Bussinah on Saturday, December 12th from 9-1.  Cost is $45.  All supplies will be supplied.  Contact Joanne Crouch to register @ (803)685-5577 (leave message) or email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to register.

JOHNSTON FARMER'S & ARTIST'S MARKET is held every Thursday afternoon from 4 - 6 p.m. in front of the Library/Warehouse. The market will be held on Thursday, November 19th . . . then again on Monday, November 23rd bringing you your Holiday fixins'.  There will not be a market on Thursday, November 26th. .  For more information contact Donna at 803-275-0010 or Anne at 803-480-1093

Josie Rodgers

No Trojan Hungry:  More than 25% of kids living in our community are hungry every day.  Many children and teens may go to sleep hungry tonight. That is the reason The "No Trojan Hungry" canned food drive was created. Through Nov. 30, the school will be collecting crackers, Ramen noodles, canned soups, granola bars, snack cakes, fruit cups, mini boxes of cereal, pop tarts, snack bars, juices, and toiletry items to help stock the RSM Food Pantry.  There will be two barrels placed around the school for donations.  Community members may also donate at the school. 

RSM Middle/High News:  The Trojans keep taking down the competition in their pursuit of state dreams.  Last Friday, they hosted and defeated Whitmire to earn another spot in the play-offs.  This week they will travel to McCormick for another round!

No one likes taking tests, especially standardized tests that count 20% of a student’s final grade in the courses of Algebra 1, English 1, Biology 1, and US History.  In a recent press release, Aiken County was praised for its students’ gains on the high school end-of-course tests.  Superintendent Dr. Sean Alford is quite happy with these gains and directed his gratitude to the hard-working teachers and students in Aiken County. 

In another press release, Aiken County announced its partnership with the Future Makers, an initiative “created by the South Carolina Manufacturing Education Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit affiliated with the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance, in response to the growing workforce challenges facing manufacturers in recruiting skilled and talented young associates.”  This partnership will allow students to better explore post-secondary options, careers, colleges, and companies.  “Powered by STEM Premier, the SC Future Makers website will debut in November 2015.”  Look for more on this cutting edge process soon!

On Veterans Day, the students and staff honored current and retired military with a special assembly featuring student council leaders, the concert band, the middle school chorus, and a guest speaker.  Moseanique Swint, McKenna Palmer, and Samantha Phillips led the ceremonies.  The concert band, under the direction of Jeff Clamp, played several patriotic melodies flawlessly.  The chorus, directed by Becky Hughes, sang touching tributes to our country, and they were outstanding!  Our guest speaker was Army Chief Warrant Officer Four Tony E. Meade, father-in-law to RSM High teacher Dianna Meade.  He spoke about his time with the military and how much his country and its people mean to him. He encouraged our young people to recognize and appreciate the many sacrifices that our military and their families make on a daily basis.  He challenged them to think about military life and service to country.  The entire gym stood and sang the school’s alma mater at the end.  The students were extremely well-behaved and showed great appreciation for this important occasion. 

RSM-High started a new class this year, Freshman Focus, and as a part of this class, we have asked our freshmen to take back some ownership of their community. Starting this week, our freshmen will be beginning nine weeks of community service hours, not as punishment, but as a way of giving back. Please, if you see one of these students, encourage them in what they are trying to accomplish.

Rene Miller RSM Elementary School

CLEMSON VS CAROLINA CANNED FOOD DRIVE: Students who bring in 3 canned goods will receive a hat pass. Students who bring in 1canned good will receive 2 Trojan points. All canned goods will be donated to a local food bank in Ridge Spring. Thanks for donating. Last day for donations is 11:00 a.m. on December 17th.

Veterans Day Visitor: Kindergarten welcomed Mr. Workman, grandfather of Matthew and Conner Cockrell, to their classroom on Veteran’s Day. Mr. Workman shared his experiences in the US Army with the students. He began as a private and retired as an E8. He did various jobs, such as KP duty and military police. We are very thankful to Mr. Workman and all of our Veterans for keeping our country safe.

First in Math: Our students are competing against themselves, students in our school, and all across the nation to boost their math skills. We will update biweekly in the school newsletter to let you know who is in the lead within our school. For the week ending November 6: Our school has completed 175,281 math problems. We have earned 58,427 stickers. The team of the week is Ms. Young’s 5th grade class. The player of the week is Yazmine Cannon. She earned 964 stickers. She is in Ms. Young’s 5^th grade class. The top team for each grade level is: Kindergarten: Mrs. Martin’s class; 1st Grade: Mrs. Carson’s class; 2nd Grade: Ms. Shrader’s class; 3rd Grade: Mrs. Ford’s class; 4th Grade: Ms. Starnes’ class; and 5th Grade: Mrs. Young’s class

Book Review by David Marshall James:  “Naughty Mabel” by Nathan Lane & Devlin Elliott, illustrated by Dan Krall (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)—’Twas out in the Hamptons, where a pupstah named Mabel / Smashed up the golf cart and sprinted cross-table, … That a party was pitched by Miss Mabel’s ’rents / who, mindful of ding-up’s, disasters, and dents, … Put La Mabes to bed early, which is way-zero fun / for one born to party, for one born to run, … And so Mabel CRASHED it, with a scurry and scoot, / paws-ing to sample the hot dogs en croute. … (We’ve heard about beans, raw veggies, fresh figs, / but nothing’s as gaseous as those blanketed pigs.) … So, if you like hot dogs, en bun or en croute, / take a tip from Miss Mabel:  Too many’s a toot!

Reminders:

Nov. 19: Friends of Ridge Spring Meeting

Nov.27 & 28: Shoppes of Ridge Spring Surprise

Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wednesday 9:00 to 4:30, Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,

Every 2^nd & 4^th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 

Every 2^nd 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 

November 9, 2015

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

Ridge Spring was hopping this weekend and I will include our neighboring town of Ward.

Leonard Bell was at the market Saturday and will be back this coming Saturday.  He will have collards, apples, other greens, vegetables and fruits. 

Friday and Saturday were Christmas Open House at Primitives ar the Ridge.  I had to stop by, check it all out and then get a snack.  Everything was perfect. 

Then I traveled on to Ward for the ribbon cutting at Gables Inn and Gardens.  This Bed and Breakfast is beautiful.  They have four bedrooms that are decorated with loving care.  The event planners were “Sorta Southern Soirees”.  So much more was going on but I did not get names.  Hope to next time.  The rain did stop for a while and we all got to enjoy the afternoon.

Sunday was rain and more rain.  The minimilers had to cancel because of the rain and the danger it would impose on their horses.  We still have lots of folks in town enjoying our delightful shoppes.  Hope to see that sun soon though.

We also had some excitement on Saturday afternoon when a truck tried to beat the train at the Green Street Crossing.  He missed the train but the arm coming down hit the truck, shattered and hit the train’s hydraulic brakes.  The train stopped immediately and would not start back up for several hours.  The problem came when all the roads in Ridge Spring were now blocked.  One had to go out to Mt. Calvary or to Trojan Road to get to the other side of the track.  Interesting afternoon for all!!!

The Saluda County Republican Party announces a General County Wide Meeting to be held Tuesday November 17.  It will be at the American Legion on 117 Pecan Grove Rd.

Ridge Spring SC from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.  For more information call Chairman Marvin at 803.944.7019 and facebook.

Joanne Crouch, AARS, president

      Aiken potter, Tom Supensky, will lead a 2 day Pottery Workshop on Saturday, November 14th from 9-1 and Sunday, November 15th from 1-4.  Topics to be covered will be handbuilding clay pieces using the coiled method.  Costs is $45.  Works by Mr. Supensky may be viewed on his website at www.tomsupensky.com.  Contact Joanne Crouch at (803)685-5577 (leave message) or at joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to pre-register.

     ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

Many folks have requested classes for children.  We have not one but two classes to offer for the younger artists. 

     Childrens’s Collage Class-NOVEMBER 21ST FROM 10-12

Children ages 5 and up will learn the art of collage.  Students will complete at least two collages focusing on the Fall season and Thanksgiving.  The cost is $20 for first child and $15 for the second and all supplies will be provided.  Barbara Yon and Mary -Zelmer, instructors.  Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com.

      Christmas Workshop-December 5th from 10-12

Children ages 5 & up.  Design Christmas ornaments just in time to decorate for the Christmas season.  The cost is $20 for the first child, $15 for the second.  All supplies provided.  Mary Zelmer and Barbara Yon, instructors. Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com to register.

      We again have the pleasure to offer another Silk Scarf Painting Class with Libby Bussinah on Saturday, December 12th from 9-1.  Cost is $45.  All supplies will be supplied.  Contact Joanne Crouch to register @ (803)685-5577 (leave message) or email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to register.

BBQ BENEFIT for Carson Hatcher and Family is sponsored by Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church's Men in Mission Group. This event will be Nov.14th from 4:00P.M,. -7:00P.M.  The BBQ will include BBQ PLATES $ 8.00 each. Eat in or Take out (Pulled Pork, Baked Beans, Slaw, and Bread.)Desserts will also be available for purchase. Tickets are available from M&H Drugs- Johnston, General Supply (NAPA) -Saluda or from Joe Derrick, Bill Hallman, Eric Carlson, Joey Fox, Edward Satcher, Rucker Williams, Jimmy Yonce, Michel Rodgers, Wayne Asbill or call the church office at  685 7523 and Jim Campbell at Ridge Auto Service. Carson Hatcher is the daughter of Brian and Chappelle Hatcher and Granddaughter of Larry and Donna Hatcher.

JOHNSTON FARMER'S & ARTIST'S MARKET is held every Thursday afternoon from 4 - 6 p.m. in front of the Library/Warehouse. The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving . . . the market will be held on Thursday, November 19th . . . then again on Monday, November 23rd bringing you your Holiday fixins'.  There will not be a market on Thursday, November 26th. .  For more information contact Donna

at 803-275-0010 or Anne at 803-480-1093.

SC MENTOR is looking for individuals or couples who are willing to open their hearts and homes to just one child by becoming a therapeutic foster parent. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent, please contact Kecia Smith at (803) 649-3220 or Kecia.Smith@thementornetwork.com.

Josie Rodgers

RSM High News:  The school will have a Veterans Day Program Wed., Nov. 11, at 10:26 am. Our guest speaker will be Mrs. Dianna Meade’s father-in-law.  The middle school chorus and the high school band will be performing. Veterans and Active Military from our surrounding community are welcome to attend. The program will be in the school gym with a guest luncheon following in the school library. For more info, please email Mrs. Brown at melindab@acpsd.net. 

The Trojan varsity football team will host the first round of the play-offs this Friday at 7:30 pm.  The Trojans will take on the Whitmire Wolverines and hopefully continue their play-off run!

No Trojan Hungry:  More than 25% of kids living in our community are hungry every day.  Many children and teens may go to sleep hungry tonight. That is the reason The "No Trojan Hungry" canned food drive was created. Through Nov. 30, the school will be collecting crackers, Ramen noodles, canned soups, granola bars, snack cakes, fruit cups, mini boxes of cereal, pop tarts, snack bars, juices, and toiletry items to help stock the RSM Food Pantry.  There will be two barrels placed around the school for donations.  Community members may also donate at the school. 

RSM-High started a new class this year, Freshman Focus, and as a part of this class, we have asked our freshmen to take back some ownership of their community. Starting this week, our freshmen will be beginning nine weeks of community service hours, not as punishment, but as a way of giving back. Please, if you see one of these students, encourage them in what they are trying to accomplish.

Book Review from David Marshall James:  “The Early Stories of Truman Capote”:  The South—his extended stays in Monroeville, Alabama, with his mother’s cousins—influenced New Orleans-born Truman Capote from the time he first attempted fiction writing, as evidenced in this just-published volume.

     This collection—consisting mainly of stories written while Capote was in high school—balances on the Southern side, in such character pieces as “Miss Belle Rankin” and “The Familiar Stranger,” both with a soft-pedaled “Twilight Zone” mood, particularly the latter, which resembles that episode wherein Robert Redford, as Death, comes for Gladys Cooper.

     Yet these stories predate that series by 20 years, which makes them all the more remarkable.  “Lucy,” concerning a black Alabaman who is invited to New York to work as a live-in cook, again shows the author writing ahead of the curve.  At first Lucy delightedly indulges in city offerings, in seeing a local man, in attending an Ethel Waters cabaret act with the youthful narrator.  However, her heart must confront a quandary, with her soul flowing to the rhythm of the Alabama River, not the Hudson.

      Some Southern authors who wrote during the post-WWII period never touched the term “Jim Crow,” but Capote throws it out like a major-league pitcher.  The story gathers even greater depth because he addresses the paradox of longing to live in a place where one is marginalized as a human being.  “Mill Store” presents the near-tangible feel of a hot Southern afternoon, along with a sense of ambiguity regarding the outcome, as well as the protagonist’s motivations.

      Several of the non-Southern stories, such as “Traffic West” and “Kindred Spirits,” offer impressive stylization, while “This Is for Jamie” just needs a touch of fleshing-out in order to become a fully-realized story, ready for the then-flourishing magazine-fiction market.  It’s one of those exciting moments, prevalent throughout the volume, where one witnesses the ripening of the author’s writing, like a pear turning golden in September.

Reminders:

Nov. 6 & 7: Primitives at the Ridge Open House

Nov. 8: Shoppes of Ridge Spring Christmas Open House

Nov. 8: Jerusalem Baptist Male Chorus Anniversary Celebration

Nov. 14: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Men’s Benefit

Nov. 19: Friends of Ridge Spring Meeting

Ridge Spring Library hours: Mon/Tues 8:30 am - 12 pm; Wednesday 9:00 to 4:30, Thurs 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Saturday from 9:00 until noon,

Every 2^nd & 4^th Monday:  Kids' Corner Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Ridge Spring Library. 

Every 2^nd 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 

November 2, 2015

Ridge Spring News

Harriet Householder

Primitives at the Ridge is having a 2015 Christmas Gathering on November  6^th and 7^th from 10:00 am ‘til 4:30 pm and the shop will be full of Santa’s, trees, snowmen, winter foliage and lots of other things!  We will be closed Thursday, Nov 5^th to get ready. Like us on facebook.com/primitivesattheridge for a sneak preview and updates! Refreshments will be served!  Primitives is located at 502 E. Main St., Ridge Spring, SC 803-685-7399/803-645-5443

The Gables Inn and Gardens is proud to announce their Grand Opening Saturday, November 7 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. You are invited to our Open House at 105 Ward Avenue, Ward, SC. We look forward to showing you the beautiful house and the endless possibilities for the special occasions in your life. We hope to see you there on Saturday!

Then Sunday November 8^th the Shoppes of Ridge Spring will have their Christmas Open House from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.  The Art Center will be participating also.  There will be refreshments.  Come and enjoy our quaint township.  The minimilers will be carrying people around town. Hope to see you then.

Saturday Leonard Bell will be at the market with greens, apples, and more.  I wonder who else will be there.  Harriet’s Garden has lovely pansies, too.

The Friends of Ridge Spring would like to thank Noel Steele, chairman of the Harvest Festival, and the Ridge Spring Harvest Festival for their support

Arthur Kenner: Jerusalem Baptist Church Male Chorus will celebrate its 15th anniversary Sunday, November 8th at 3:30 PM. Various choirs will join in the celebration and the public is invited.  For additional information please call Deacon 

Arthur Kenner at 803-685-5453.

ART CENTER OF RIDGE SPRING

 Joanne Crouch, AARS, president

      On Sunday, November 1st, the Art Center hosted a reception for Jim Harrison of Denmark, SC.  Mr. Harrison’s works include landscapes , landmarks such as the coasts and historic bridges, and the mighty gamecock.  Mr. Harrison owns a gallery in his hometown of Denmark.  Many folks came and purchased his works on Sunday afternoon.

      Members of AARS have works on exhibit at the new B&B in Ward.  The Gables Inn & Gardens, a Bed & Breakfast and Event Facility, will hosts and Open House on Saturday, November 7 from 2-5.  The Inn is located at 105 Ward Ave in Ward. 

      Sunday, November 8th, from 1-5, the Art Center will be open for Holiday Open House.   Members will be on hand to answer questions about AARS.  AARS is located behind the Civic Center. 

      Aiken potter, Tom Supensky, will lead a 2 day Pottery Workshop on Saturday, November 14th from 9-1 and Sunday, November 15th from 1-4.  Topics to be covered will be handbuilding clay pieces using the coiled method.  Costs is $45.  Works by Mr. Supensky may be viewed on his website at www.tomsupensky.com.  Contact Joanne Crouch at (803)685-5577 (leave message) or at joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to pre-register.

     ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

Many folks have requested classes for children.  We have not one but two classes to offer for the younger artists. 

     Childrens’s Collage Class-NOVEMBER 21ST FROM 10-12

Children ages 5 and up will learn the art of collage.  Students will complete at least two collages focusing on the Fall season and Thanksgiving.  The cost is $20 for first child and $15 for the second and all supplies will be provided.  Barbara Yon and Mary -Zelmer, instructors.  Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com.

      Christmas Workshop-December 5th from 10-12

Children ages 5 & up.  Design Christmas ornaments just in time to decorate for the Christmas season.  The cost is $20 for the first child, $15 for the second.  All supplies provided.  Mary Zelmer and Barbara Yon, instructors. Call (803)685-5386 or email artassnridgespring@gmail.com to register.

      We again have the pleasure to offer another Silk Scarf Painting Class with Libby Bussinah on Saturday, December 12th from 9-1.  Cost is $45.  All supplies will be supplied.  Contact Joanne Crouch to register @ (803)685-5577 (leave message) or email joanne.crouch26@gmail.com to register.

BBQ BENEFIT for Carson Hatcher and Family is sponsored by Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church's Men in Mission Group. This event will beNov.14th from 4:00P.M,. -7:00P.M.  Since March Carson has spent 18 weeks in the hospital and has had 3 surgeries with the most recent hospitalization in Cincinnati, Ohio. The family has experienced large medical bills, lodging, food expenses and loss of work time. The BBQ will include BBQ PLATES $ 8.00 each. Eat in or Take out (Pulled Pork, Baked Beans, Slaw, and Bread.)Desserts will also be available for purchase.
Tickets are available from M&H Drugs- Johnston, General Supply (NAPA) -Saluda or from Joe Derrick, Bill Hallman, Eric Carlson, Joey Fox, Edward Satcher, Rucker Williams, Jimmy Yonce, Michel Rodgers, Wayne Asbill or call the church office at  685 7523. Jim Campbell at Ridge Auto Service also has tickets for sale. Carson Hatcher is the daughter of Brian and Chappelle Hatcher and Granddaughter of Larry and Donna Hatcher.

JOHNSTON FARMER'S & ARTIST'S MARKET is held every Thursday afternoon from 4 - 6 p.m. on Calhoun St. in front of the Library/Warehouse. The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving . . . the market will be held on Thursday, November 19th . . . then again on Monday, November 23rd bringing you your Holiday fixins'.  There will not be a market on Thursday, November 26th.  The week after Thanksgiving the market will resume until the our ANNUAL HOLIDAY MARKET on Thursday, December 3rd, from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. which will end our season.  For more information contact Donna

at 803-275-0010 or Anne at 803-480-1093.

SC MENTOR is looking for individuals or couples who are willing to open their hearts and homes to just one child by becoming a therapeutic foster parent. Our community is in need of good homes. Opportunities are currently available for full-time and respite parents that are patient, loving, and nurturing. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent, please contact Kecia Smith at (803) 649-3220 or Kecia.Smith@thementornetwork.com.

Rene Miller: RSM Elementary School

Classes Visit the Zoo

Ms. Hite’s and Mrs. Cotham’s classes have been reading From Head to Toe, Clap Your Hands, and The Very Busy Spider over the last two months to learn about different animals and their characteristics.  The two classes also went on a field trip to Riverbanks Zoo to learn more about the animals from their books, as well as many more animals! On the way to the zoo, students practiced finding environmental print. At the zoo, they attended a class where they had to move just like the animals. The students practiced naming the animals they saw and were even able to feed the fish and giraffes. The students had a great time!

Community Helpers

For community helper’s week, Ms. Hite’s class had some very special visitors! The students were visited by two Aiken County police officers and their canine, a nurse, a mailwoman, and a firefighter. These special guests brought items unique to their jobs for the students to see and learn about. The guests described their jobs and how they may be able to help the students in the future. They also gave each of the students a gift to help them remember where to go when they need help in the community. The students had a great time learning from these special individuals.

First in Math:

Our students are competing against themselves, students in our school, and all across the nation to boost their math skills. We will update biweekly in the school newsletter to let you know who is in the lead within our school.

For the week ending October 23rd:

Our school has completed 104,616 math problems. We have earned 34,872 stickers.

The team of the week is Mrs. Wilson’s 5th grade class. The player of the week is Montana Gergen. He earned 590 stickers. He is in Mrs. Wilson’s 5^th grade class.

The top team for each grade level is: Kindergarten: Mrs. Martin’s class; 1st Grade: Mrs. McCurry’s class; 2nd Grade: Mrs. Shealy’s class; 3rd Grade: Mrs. Ford’s class

4th Grade: Ms. Starnes’ class; 5th Grade: Mrs. Wilson’s class.

Josie Rodgers:

RSM High News:  The school will have a Veterans Day Program Wed., Nov. 11, at 10:26 am. Our guest speaker will be Mrs. Dianna Meade’s father-in-law.  The middle school chorus and the high school band will be performing. Veterans and Active Military from our surrounding community are welcome to attend. The program will be in the school gym with a guest luncheon following in the school library. For more info, please email Mrs. Brown at melindab@acpsd.net. 

The Trojan softball team is having a Chicken Bog Dinner Fundraiser on Sat., Nov.7, from 10-12 in the band room.  Cost is $7 per plate and include chicken bog, green beans, sweet potato, and bread.  Contact Janice Douda at the high school at 685-2100 or by email at jdouda@acpsd.net.

RSM-High started a new class this year, Freshman Focus, and as a part of this class, we have asked our freshmen to take back some ownership of their community. Starting this week, our freshmen will be beginning nine weeks of community service hours, not as punishment, but as a way of giving back. Please, if you see one of these students, encourage them in what they are trying to accomplish.
            Homecoming was celebrated Oct. 23.  Homecoming court consisted of sophomores Rachel Burger, Leslie Long, & Ja’ceel Tyler; juniors Carolina Luarca, & Diamond Preston; and seniors Stephanie Barajas-Valencia, Destinee Brewer, Shelby Cumbee, Banessa Gonzalez, Amber Merritt, McKenna Palmer, Devin Ritchie, & Moseanique Swint.  Ja’ceel Tyler was crowned Princess and Devin Ritchie was crowned Homecoming Queen.  Other awards included Miss Volleyball , Amber Merritt; Mr. Football, Stanley Rolland; Miss Cheerleader, Stephanie Barajas; and Miss Band, Amber Merritt.  The senior class won the following competitions:  tug-of-war, the dizzy bat, balloon pop, obstacle course, banner, senior citizens day, hillbilly vs hippie day, dynamic duo day, & day of the dead. The freshmen won the chant competition and the spirit day dress competition.