If you work here, shouldn’t you be able to live here?

Help tweak single-family zoning in Saluda

Threats to what makes Saluda the only place most of us want to live will be on the table at the next meeting of the Saluda Planning Board, and everyone with a stake in our future is invited to help find solutions.

Both items on the August 15 agenda deal with the cost of living here, which is increasingly becoming an unattainable dream thanks to those who don’t actually call Saluda home.

First is the need to rethink our prohibition on more than one home on lots in the single-family residential (R-1) zone. While it’s true that most properties in R-1 aren’t big enough to accommodate more than one home, a significant fraction may be appropriate for a second unit. That’s what members of the Planning Board are considering: allowing duplexes or two separate buildings on lots larger than one acre.

The goal is to give property owners the ability to build more homes that cost less. Saluda can’t control the regional real estate market, nationally determined interest rates, or the impending pressure from coastal residents looking for a more climate-resilient second (or third) place to live — all of which are driving up the cost of homes. But we can at least make it easier to build homes that our teachers, first-responders, waitstaff, and other folks with modest incomes can afford. If you work here, shouldn’t you be able to live here?

Next will be short-term rentals, which have become a problem for tourism-dependent communities around the world. Airbnb or VRBO had made renting to week-long or weekend visitors much more financially attractive (by a factor of four or more) than meeting the needs of long-term, resident renters. The return-on-investment logic is inescapable, putting even more upward pressure on property values.

In some states, cities and towns can respond to this threat by capping the absolute number or proportion of homes that can be rented out for short-term stays, but that’s not an option in North Carolina. The only legal tool we can use is zoning. So we’re thinking about restricting all new short-term rentals to that portion of the city that has always been zoned primarily for families, not tourists.

The Board has been consulting the public for several months, and we’ve already held one meeting devoted entirely to these ideas. But we want to make sure that both the specifics and the general approach to our recommendations reflect the needs and hopes of the entire community. Although the Board’s members don’t all agree on exactly how to do this, we do know that ignoring the threats is not a responsible option.

Everyone with an interest in Saluda’s future should join the conversation by showing up the Library, August 15, at 5:30 p.m. to listen to each other and weigh in on whether these ideas make sense, and if so, how they can be turned into city policy — before it’s too late.

James Hrynyshyn, Chair

Saluda Planning Board

Feeling out of the loop?

The City of Saluda provides two ways to make sure residents don’t miss any important news and developments from City Hall.

First, sign up for the City's “Sunshine” email service, which provides advance notice of meeting agendas for the Board of Commissioners and Planning Board. Get on the list of recipients by sending an email to cityclerk@cityofsaludanc.com and ask to be added. 

You should also sign up for Nixle text alerts about service interruptions and changes and other news that can affect your neighborhood. Just head to https://local.nixle.com/city/nc/saluda and sign up.



JIM CARSON AIS OPA

STUDIO / GALLERY

20-2 Main St., Saluda, NC

  The Jim Carson Studio/Gallery will participate in the Saluda Art Stroll on Saturday, August 10, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Main Street. The Stroll takes place on the 2^nd Saturday of each month through December, and features all nine art galleries on Main Street, in Saluda. Refreshments will be served.

The painting featured here is a recent painting by Jim of Main Street, showing a bit of the Depot and Library. Come by his gallery to see the original.

Jim’s Studio/Gallery hours are

Fridays, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM,

Saturdays 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM,

Sundays 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM and

Mondays 11:00 AM- 5:00 PM. 

Tuesday-Thursday, by appointment or chance.

Heartwood Gallery Meet the Artist at the Saluda Art Stroll

Saturday, August 10th, 4-6pm

The newly formed Saluda Art Alliance is sponsoring Saluda Art Strolls on the second Saturday of each month of the 2024 season.

Come stroll downtown and visit the many shops and studios, view the art each has to offer and be treated to light refreshments.

The fifth Saluda Art Stroll is Saturday, August 10th, 4-6pm. Join us at Heartwood Gallery as we welcome Asheville artist Jane Vorhees for our “Meet the Artist” during the stroll. Drawn to the extraordinary beauty of the western North Carolina mountains, she is inspired by the ever-changing colors and moods of this landscape, which she showcases in her stunning watercolors.

Jane will be bringing extra work to share and be available between 4 and 6 to meet and greet and discuss her work. 



We are excited to showcase the arts of our wonderful mountain community.

William Jameson

Painting Workshops

  Only two workshops left for the year! There are a few openings left so join us in Cashiers for “Late Summer on the Blue Ridge” at the marvelous Whiteside Gallery. We will be painting inside and also leaving enough time for you to explore the charming village of Cashiers. “Fall on the Blue Ridge” is the last workshop of the year and fills up fast as it is the perfect time to enjoy Saluda and the beautiful foliage that fall bestows on us.

“Late Summer on the Blue Ridge”

8/15-8/17,2024

Whiteside Art Gallery

1057 Hwy 64 West

Cashiers, NC

Western NC Blue Ridge Mountains

  During “Late Summer on the Blue Ridge” we will be cool and comfortable painting in our studio for three days. We have been invited to enjoy this workshop at the amazing Whiteside Art Gallery in fabulous Cashiers, NC. We will work from photo references that are used as a point of departure for your compositions. We will determine what to leave out or leave in to make good paintings and to make them your own. We will begin each day at 9AM with talks and demonstrations then paint till lunch. We will go “Dutch” to one of Cashier’s charming cafes then return to paint till about 3:30PM. This will leave you time to explore this spectacular area! On Wednesday evening, the 14^th, we will have a “get acquainted party” for painters and their partner or friend.

“Fall on the Blue Ridge”

10/24-10/26,2024

Ransom Road Studios 

519 Ransom Road &

Plein Air in and around Saluda

Saluda, NC

  This is one of the most spectacular times of the year to be in the mountains of western North Carolina! We will learn how to work quickly and modify a broad vista into an exciting composition. Even devout studio painters will benefit from this change of pace! We will meet each morning in the studio then drive to our sites. We will paint until lunch which will be at one of Saluda’s fun cafes and then return to paint for the afternoon. Also, we will have our “get acquainted party” on Wednesday the 23^rd at our home and studio.” This is our most popular time in the mountains so please register for the workshop and secure accommodations early!

General Information

All workshops are open to beginners to advanced with one-to-one instruction in your choice of oil, acrylic, or watercolor. A materials list is sent upon registration. The number of participants in each workshop is limited so we encourage you to call or “e-request” an enrollment form and return it with a deposit.

For questions, contact Bill at 843-729-0593 or

BillJameson0593@gmail.com.

Please visit Bill at www.williamjameson.com.

Queen Bee and the Honey Lovers Perform at Top of the Grade Concert August 9 

  Queen Bee and the Honey Lovers will perform at the Top of the Grade Concert series at 7 pm Friday, August 9 on the Ella Grace Mintz Stage in McCreery Park. This free community event is made possible through a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation.

In addition to the Honey Lovers, Mountain Song, the community chorus, will lead a Beatles sing-along at 6 pm in the park. Lyric sheets will be provided.

  Queen Bee and the Honeylovers performs classic swing, blues and Latin music. They have been voted best in Jazz 2020-23 in the Mountain Xpress “Best Of” poll. Their debut album, 'Asheville', celebrated their hometown's history and won them #41 on WNCW's listener-voted poll of Best Albums of 2019 as well as features on The State of Things with Frank Stasio and PBS Woodsongs. Their video for "Beacham's Curve" won Best Soundtack at the 2019 Music Video Asheville Awards. Vocal-driven with an infectious groove, the Honeylovers are guaranteed to put a grin on your face and a tap in your toes. 

In case of rain the concert moves to the park pavilion. Please remember to bring a lawn chair or a cushion for the new amphitheater seating. You may bring wine and beer to the concert but please limit your consumption to the seating area. No alcohol is allowed on the playground or in the parking lot. Remember to place a to-go order at one of Saluda’s fine restaurants so you can enjoy a picnic and live music in the park.

 The Top of the Grade Concert series is overseen by the Saluda Downtown Foundation, Inc. with support from the City of Saluda. The Saluda Downtown Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the arts, beautification, historic preservation, cultural development, and economic development in downtown Saluda.

A Lust Named Wanda

By Cappy Hall Rearick

When did it start? I’ve racked my addled brain for the answer but for the life of me I can’t come up with the exact date that Wanda Lust became my new BFF. I only know that it was at least ten years ago ‘

I remember that I had been enjoying an infrequent day of relaxation. I’d actually allowed myself to gaze above my keyboard and out through my office window. I had heaved a contented sigh. A turbo sigh. The laundry was done, the clothes were folded and put away, the groceries bought; a tuna casserole was in the oven that Babe would complain about but would probably eat enough of it to feed a small country. Best of all, I had jump-started my deadline.

That was when Wanda shoved her pushy self into my day.

“Are you meadow gazing, girlfriend? Seriously? Come with me.” Her seductive voice cut a path straight to my brain. “We have hills to climb, roads to cross and beaucoup fun stuff to do.”

Having little desire to move from my comfort zone or the chair molded to my derrière, I poo-pooed the idea of going anywhere with her. I deserved a day of rest so I told her to take a hike — alone.

Wanda Lust is a relentless temptress. She was in no mood to let me enjoy the rewards of my past treks. She forced me to find photos online (in color) of a beautiful house not far away from my own. She grabbed my reading glasses and forced me to put them on.

“Look at this, girlfriend. Does it make your heart flutter or what?”

Holy Dream House!

Seeing things in real time is so not the norm these days so I was unsurprised that I fell in love with an Internet photo. Wanda’s lusty, moveable parts and her relentless attempts to pull me away from my keyboard worked on my psyche big time. She convinced me that we owed it to ourselves to see the house up close and personal, not just the photo.

It was Wanda Lust, not me, that placed a call to our real estate friend. It was Wanda who supplied him with a pathetic excuse for wanting to see a house that might well turn out to be the last Babe and I would ever live in. While he made the viewing appointment, I stared at the online color photos of that house and allowed my imagination to take a mind’s eye trip.

I pictured myself seated in a rocking chair on the wraparound porch sipping the concoction Babe would serve me during Cappy Hour.

I saw myself waking up each morning to the hum of an overhead fan turning slowly enough to make me snuggle under light covers while yawning like a cat.

In my mind’s eye I served meals prepared in the large kitchen, exotic dishes created to the constant amazement of the always hungry Babe. Smiling at the thought, I heard him say Yum!

Holy House Hunt!

The three of us, Real Estate Man, Wander Lust and I, walked into a foyer that immediately wrapped itself around my heart and soul. I knew without even seeing the rest of the house that Babe would fall in love just as quickly. It was the home we both had dreamed about for over twenty years. The large kitchen, the bedroom big enough to house a king-size bed, a real stone fireplace and a yard with enough trees to be living smack in the middle of a forest.

At the time, Babe and I were no longer young; we were freakin’ old. We had no business buying more real estate at our age. We already had one too many homes. But what choice did we have after stepping into a space that felt like returning to the womb?

We made an offer. They countered. We countered back. They said, “You just bought yourself a wonderful home.”

Holy Moving Van!

It has been almost ten years since the day we unloaded twenty years of collected stuff into our new digs in Saluda. Since then, I haven’t heard a peep out of Wanda. In true Elvis phraseology, Wanda Lust has left the building.

FREE Live Music & Events at Saluda Outfitters and Green River Eddy’s Tap Room & Grill

Fri., Aug. 2, 7-10 p.m. | Cross Eyed Betty,

an acoustic American band from Spartanburg

Sat., Aug. 3, 7-10 p.m. | Bruised Rhino,

an Americana jam band from Shelby

Sun, Aug. 4, 2-5 p.m. | Seth and Sara,

Asheville duo performing originals, Americana/rock/pop/country

Fri., Aug. 9, 7-10 p.m. |Carolina Players,

a six-piece band from Greenville, S.C., playing oldies dance tunes and rhythm & blues

Sat., Aug. 10, 7-10 p.m. | Borderline Therapy,

an eclectic mix of 60s-2000s rock with old school country

Sun., Aug. 11, 2-5 p.m. | Kadmon

interprets artists like The Grateful Dead, Phish and Bob Marley

Wed., Aug. 14, 6-9 p.m. | DJ Honeybee Karaoke

with Morgan Bass

Fri., Aug. 16, 7-10 p.m. |Moonshine State,

a WNC acoustic country and Americana band

Sat., Aug. 17, 7-10 p.m. |Burnt Reputation,

an Asheville based acoustic rock band

Sun., Aug. 18, 2-5 p.m. | BJ Cates,

a Landrum country singer/songwriter

Fri., Aug. 23, 7-10 p.m. | Highway 52 Quartet,

Hendersonville-area musicians playing an eclectic mix of genres

Sat., Aug. 24, 7-10 p.m. |The Andrew Thelston Band,

guitar-heavy rock that takes in late 1960s psychedelia, and blues influenced solos

Sun., Aug. 25, 2-5 p.m. | Two Step Too,

Rick Reles and Marc Brown play a mix of modern and classic music

Wed., Aug. 28, 6-9 p.m. | DJ Honeybee Karaoke

with Morgan Bass

Fri. Aug. 30, 7-10 p.m. | The Arrow Band,

playing rock, R&B, funk from the 70s and 80s.

Sat., Aug. 31, 7-10 p.m. | Wiregrass,

a bluegrass/Americana band



24 West Main St. Saluda NC

Call 828 749 0033

FLASH NEW! NEW WEBSITE FOR FULL CLASS INFORMATION

Saludamoonglassstudio.art

AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER CLASSES

LEARNING TO FUSE GLASS 3.5 hours

Create three functional pieces while learning to cut and design glass 

$95 plus $30 material fee

Tuesday, August 6, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Thursday, August 22, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Tuesday, September 17, 9 a.m. to 12.p.m.

EVERY GARDEN NEEDS GLASS   3.5 hours

Create an eye catching design to add to your garden, along your driveway or as a gift. Your piece will fit into a black metal frame.

$100 plus $45 material fee

Thursday, August 15,  9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 25, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

GARDEN TOTEM - 4 hours

Learn how to silk screen, stencil with glass enamels, create water color effects with glass powders and construct a 24 inch totem that fits into a black metal garden stand. You will return on a second day to assemble the pieces you created on day one. The second date will be determined during the class.

$100 plus $60 for materials and metal frame

Tuesday. August 20 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, September 10, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 26, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

DESIGN YOUR OWN LANTERN  5 hours

Create four panels of your own design for this sturdy black metal lantern that holds a wax candle or battery operated lights. Make is whimsical, abstract, or nature inspired. 

$100 plus $60 for materials

Thursday, August 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, September 3, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, September 19, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

BUBBLE VOTIVE OR SUN CATCHER  4 Hours

Create an eye popping starburst piece to hang in a window or have it slumped into a striking candle holder.    Learn strip and circle cutting during this easy and fun session.

$35 plus $15 material fee

Tuesday, August 13, 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday, September 23, 9:30 to 12:30 p.m.

NEW CLASSES ADDED!

BATIKS  4 Hours

Take ordinary glass with the addition of glass powders and you will have a result that suggests batik fabric. No glass cutting skills required. You can mount your final pieces for wall hanging or slump them into interesting small plates. You can also cut them up for jewelry pendants. We will also experiment with silver foil and powders to use as embellishments on other pieces. These techniques take you beyond plain glass sheets into what people often say looks like pottery. You will make 5 – 5x5 batik pieces.

$100 plus $40 for materials. 

Thursday, August 29, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, September 11, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

DESIGNING WITH DEPTH  4 Hours with follow up sessions

You will learn to achieve depth by adding layers of glass to a 5 layer thickness. Each layer will add an element to your picture to achieve a “look into” effect. Enamels and glass powders may be used to created images on each layer. You will also learn how to dam your piece in the kiln and to cold work the edges for a finished look. $125 plus $40 for materials. Fees include the cost of multiple firings.

Monday, September 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

RETRO PLATE 3 Hours

Remember op art, Twiggy, avocado and orange kitchen accessories? This class takes you back to those days with your own multi-colored design. You will create an 8x8 inch plate for wall hanging or to use as a functional piece. I’ll play some sixties music for a fun event. 

$70 plus $25 material fee

Thursday, August 1, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, August 27, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 4, 1 pm to 4 pm.

MOSAIC MIRROR,

Visiting Instructor,

Mary Ann Everett

( 1.5 days)

Design a circular mirror surrounded by mosaic class. You will complete your design on day on and return the next day to grout. Mary Ann has been teaching at the Studio for two years and provides with skills to continue mosaics on your own. $180 includes all materials.

August 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and August 10, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Call the Studio (828 749-0033) to register for a class, studio time or to schedule a private group session.



Class space is limited so that everyone gets attention and guidance. Be prepared to HAVE FUN!

Susan Cannon, glass artist and enthusiast, gallery owner and instructor.

LIVE Music at The Purple Onion

Thursday Evening @ 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Evening @ 8 p.m.

*Cover Charge*

August 1st, Thursday ~ Alma Russ - $10 - Link

Alma (say it like Alamo) is a vocalist, songwriter, and musician out of Western North Carolina. She plays patchwork music: country, folk, and Appalachian roots sewn together to make something unique. Songwriting is cheaper than therapy, and old songs make her happy. She fell in love with mountain culture and heritage - especially the music – at a young age. She remembers frolicking around the yard as a kid, singing Scotch-Irish murder ballads, passed down through generations; songs about old-true loves and murders. Music has taken her lots of places, from the hometown bars, to church, to the highway. Music continues to give her stories to tell.

August 3rd, Saturday ~ Lazybirds - $10 - Link

A classic American roots band, the Lazybirds Band specializes in good time music, impossible not to move to. Pulling from blues, jazz, and good old ragtime, this band has a hillbilly flare that gets your toes tapping. With a talented ensemble that plays strings, piano, and harmonica, they cover all of the great sounds rooted in Rural America. Gritty Mississippi blues to Dylan classics, with some early American string band thrown in, the Lazybirds are just as comfortable vibing out with an original to covering one of the greats. Founded back in 2000, the Lazybirds have been showing audiences a good time for over 20 years.

August 8th, Thursday ~ Crys Matthews - $10 - Link

Already being hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie,” Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. A powerful lyricist whose songs of compassionate dissent reflect her lived experience as what she lightheartedly calls “the poster-child for intersectionality…” Ear Milk describes, “A passionate and powerful blend of infectious Americana melodies and folky instrumentation, Matthews delivers her honest songwriting through a beautifully raw and unfiltered lens. Oozing soul, her voice bleeds with emotion and gratitude, while simple piano melodies and upbeat percussion fill you with appreciation and love for the people around us who fight for change.”

August 10th, Saturday ~ 81 Drifters - $10 - Link

Hailing from the scenic mountain landscapes along Highway 81, the 81 Drifters weave a tapestry of sounds ranging from fearlessly raw singer-songwriter originals to western swing, jamgrass, blues, and Appalachian folk. They captivate audiences with their infectious energy, lyrical depth, and powerful harmonies that take listeners on a journey that transcends time and tradition. The band exudes a remarkable chemistry that brings the songs to life as they improvise around each other, exploring melodies in new ways with each performance.

August 15th, Thursday ~ Admiral Radio - $10 - Link

Inspired by their 1941 wooden Admiral radio, this South Carolina- based husband and wife duo creates an Americana sound rooted in tradition that touches the heartstrings of the modern-day listener. With tight vocal harmonies, endearing storytelling and authentic energy, Becca and Coty hold a presence that is palpable and real, both on and off stage. Simply put, Becca and Coty aim to leave listeners better than they found them. With a personal sincerity and honest performance, you might shed a few tears and roll with laughter.

August 17th, Saturday ~ Funky Junky Joy Peddlers - $10 - Link

Funky Junk Joy Peddlers, formerly known as The Shana Blake Band, is an innovative new take on the classic soul cover band. A Purple Onion favorite, the band’s sound is filled with energetic, danceable music of the Motown era through current hits. Throwing in deeper cuts you know and love from R&B, soul, and funk favorites. The group will have you grooving in your seats and keep you smiling with their infectious, upbeat vibes.

August 22nd, Thursday ~ Newfound Gap - $10 - Link

Newfound Gap is an old-time sound string band from Leicester, North Carolina. Made up of siblings Bayla, Sylvie, and Judah Davis, the three have been playing music together since they were six years old. Newfound Gap has performed on the Kid’s Stage at IBMA World of Bluegrass, and at MerleFest, Folkmoot, Shindig on the Green, and on the Woodsongs Kids television/radio program. This youthful group blends traditional Appalachian music with progressive influences and is a show one would be remiss to pass up.

August 24th, Saturday ~ Holler Choir - $14 - Link

Led by the lyrical craftsmanship of singer, guitarist, and songwriter Clint Roberts, the distinctly Appalachian, old-time sound of Asheville’s Holler Choir combines haunting harmonies, stirring string compositions, and heart-wrenching ballads, yet hardly conforms to a stereotypical genre. Call it a confluence of old-time, Americana, and bluegrass, but, by its own exceptional design, the sound and atmosphere of Holler Choir are singular. Robert’s wordcraft and explosive vocal range is met with the dulcet clawhammer banjo plucking of long-time collaborator Helena Rose, the gutsy timekeeping of upright bassist Joey Brown, and the cracking leads of fiddle player Nat Copeland. Together they create playful songs which explore deep places.

August 29th, Thursday ~ Clay Ross - $12 - Link

Clay Ross is a multi-Grammy winning artist and the founder of the Billboard chart-topping band Ranky Tanky. Through multiple collaborations with the U.S. State Department, he has toured worldwide as a Cultural Ambassador. Ross’s style is as eclectic as the world influences and the american deep roots he circulates and cultivates. Involved in multiple musical projects, his style and music reaches out to something deep within his audiences, pulling on sounds and themes that everyone can not only relate to, but move to. Clay Ross is a musical experience and nothing beats seeing him in his element, live.

August 31st, Saturday ~ The Local Boys - $10 - Link

The legacy of bluegrass music lives on in many styles, but the musicians defining themselves in tradition uphold the stories and techniques of yesterday’s music. For more than two decades, one band doing that has been The Local Boys, a Bluegrass and Americana band based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Local Boys love music that has grown and evolved over decades—old-time, bluegrass, country, and rock ’n’ roll. Beginning their musical journey over 20 years ago in Maryland, The Local Boys have a long tradition of celebrating the deep roots of traditional bluegrass music.



More Than Just a Coat: Unwrapping the Origins of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Prepare to have your mind blown, your heart touched, and your feet tapping to the beat of biblical proportions. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the mega-hit musical by the songwriting duo of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is gracing the stage of the Mountain Page Theater from December 5th to 15th, and it's a production you won't want to miss being a part of.

But before you don your dreamcoat and skip on down to MPT, let's delve into the captivating origins of this musical phenomenon. Buckle up, theater aficionados, because we're about to take a trip back to 1968, where the seeds of this technicolor masterpiece were first performed. It all started with a humble request. A school in England, Colet Court, needed a musical for their annual production, and they approached the then-fledgling team of Rice and Webber. The initial idea? A 15-minute pop cantata based on the story of Joseph from the Bible.

Fast forward five decades, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is not just a school play anymore. It's a global phenomenon, translated into over 20 languages and performed on stages across the world. It's a musical that's charmed critics, captivated families, and launched the careers of countless performers.

And what a story it is! Betrayal, forgiveness, and a whole lot of singing and dancing – the perfect recipe for musical theater magic. Rice and Webber, with their knack for weaving catchy tunes and poignant lyrics, brought Joseph's tale to life in a way that resonated with audiences of all ages.

But what makes Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat so enduring? Is it the timeless story of sibling rivalry and redemption? The infectious melodies that burrow into your brain and refuse to leave? The vibrant costumes and dazzling choreography that transport you to a world of dreams and wonder.

Yes, it's all of that and more. Joseph is a kaleidoscope of musical styles, from pop and country to rock and roll, all woven together seamlessly by the masterful hands of Rice and Webber. It's a show that celebrates diversity, acceptance, and the power of dreams, all while keeping your toes tapping and your heart soaring.

So, dear WNC theater lovers, mark your calendars and get ready for a technicolor extravaganza. Mountain Page Theater's production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat promises to be full of laughter, fun, and pure musical joy. It's a show for the whole family, a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, and a reminder that even the most dazzling dreams can begin with a simple act of faith.

Don't let this Dreamcoat pass you by. If you can sing and dance or just want to get involved with a project that will change your life, join us for auditions on August 21st and 23rd from 5:30-7:00 at MPT.



Learn more at https://www.mountainpage.theater/auditions or

reach out to Ashley Sandahl at (828) 817-6515 or ashleyonstage@gmail.com

MOUNTAIN SONG CHOIR AND SALUDA MOON PRESENTS

KARAOKE UNDER THE MOON, BY FISH HEAD KARAOKE

AUGUST 3, 6 TO 9

  Bring a chair, beverages and snacks and sing your heart out or simply relax and enjoy the local talent. Everything is free, especially the fun!

Courtyard of Saluda Moon Glass Studio and Gallery

SALUDA LIVING IN PLACE

(SLIP)

IS ALIVE AND WELL

First and foremost, the next SLIP Community Education Program will be held on Wednesday, August 21 at the Saluda Center, 10-11 a.m. Our special guest speaker will be Dr. Lisa J. Broyles, MD. She will be speaking on the topic of food, emphasizing Ketogenic Diets and their benefits. Dr. Broyles grew up seeking adventure, and adventure she has found, with over 15 years of clinical experience. Although she finds education incredibly valuable to both herself and her patients and family, she finds that the most valuable education has come from being a wife and mother while living in the same community as her patients.

Dr. Broyles specializes in Functional Medicine, which is a comprehensive approach to medicine that sees each body system as part of the whole picture of wellness. Each system has to be working efficiently to make the entire machine (human body) work healthfully and efficiently. She also believes that true wellness occurs when every body system works together in harmony.

Dr. Broyles’ topic, the Keto Diet, focuses on lowering the amount of carbohydrates in the diet and substituting fats to replace those carbs. This switch forces your body to use a different type of fuel, from sugar to fats. And the burning of those fats creates ketone bodies, hence the name Keto.

If you want to learn more about the Keto Diet, have any questions for Dr. Broyles, or just want to connect with your community, join us for our Community Education Session.

The second important issue is that SLIP is seeking volunteers!!! Our three-legged stool of services: transportation, home rehabilitation, and visiting with our neighbors, is receiving many requests for assistance in Saluda’s 28773 zip code. So if you have some spare time and a big heart for our senior neighbors, contact Cindy Hemenway, Volunteer Coordinator, at 828-747-1958. She can help you get plugged in.

Finally, SLIP HAS A NEW TELEPHONE NUMBER.    864-823-7756!!!!



Authentic Traditional Karate

Teaching in Saluda since 2017 

Mountain Karate

54 Carolina Avenue

Saluda Presbyterian Church

Adults, Kids - Ages 6-10

Seniors - Ages 60 and up 

Professional Black Belt Instructors.

For info on classes for kids and adults contact Jeff Brooks at

828 699-0909 or

mountainkarate@gmail.com or visit MountainKarateNC.com

Tai Chi and Qigong Classes

Weekly Tai Chi and Qigong Classes are held in the activity building of the Saluda Presbyterian Church located at 54 Carolina Avenue in Saluda NC.

Tai Chi class is every Wednesday at 10am and Qigong class is every Thursday morning at 10am.

For more information contact Rob Bruce at 828-435-0816 or rbtbrc@yahoo.com. Donations are requested and appreciated.

Meditation/Self Exploration Group

Meets every Tues at 5:30pm

at WNC Functional Health

711 S. Grove Street, Ste B

Hendersonville, NC

For additional Information Contact

Frank Trombetta, 828-388-1794



Saluda Visitor’s Center

Did You Know?

It is August in Saluda! The rain has finally arrived and brings lots of life to our small town. On Friday evenings from 4:00-6:00 PM, the Saluda Tailgate Market is held next to the Saluda School tennis courts. This is an agriculture-only market featuring a wonderful assortment of homegrown produce, jams, jelly, meats, eggs, flowers and more. Visit the market each Friday and enjoy Saluda’s freshest produce. 

There are many activities going on in our area. These activities are posted in the Visitor Center. If you have events or activities that you would like to post in the Visitor Center, please send them or email them to Misty Davis at misty.davis@;allentate.com

The Visitor Center hours are 11:00 am to 4pm daily. 

The Visitor Center, located at 20 W. Main Street, has a nice open room with information about Saluda and the surrounding area (including maps, brochures, hiking trail info and local activities} and two ADA-compliant restrooms. The Center features a slideshow created by the Saluda Historical Society that highlights Saluda’s history. The center is run by an all-volunteer staff and is supported by the Saluda Tourism Development Authority,

Additionally, we’d like to invite visitors and residents alike to visit the Center to learn about Saluda’s Historic walks or scenic drives.  We also have “Things to do in Saluda” list, restaurant menus, lodging choices and a variety of business pamphlets.

We continue to put out a call for more volunteers for short shifts to provide information and keep the facility in shape. The shifts are easy and fun, you meet nice people, and you will be properly trained before starting. Please consider volunteering or just drop by to say hello! We have dog snacks, too. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about the Visitor Center please contact, Director Misty Davis at mistydavis@all



The Saluda Community Library

Karen Johnson Artist Reception 

Friday, August 2nd, 2-4pm 

Saluda Library 

Enjoy light refreshments while viewing and listening to Karen discuss her displayed artwork.

Glow in the Dark Storytime 

Tuesday, August 6 @ 10:30am 

Saluda Library 

We’ll read stories, sing songs, and dance with glowsticks! Please bring a white t-shirt to decorate with neon paint under our blacklights. Storytime is designed for ages 2-5.

Pages at the Park 

Tuesday, August 6 @ 6:30pm

McCreery Park, Saluda 

Meet Polk County Public Libraries outside this summer for a relaxing evening of reading at a local park! Bring a book, blanket or chair, and join us. Readers are also welcome to pack a picnic for this event.

The Southeast Bumble Bee Atlas 

Tuesday, August 13 @ 2pm 

Saluda Library 

Dr. Laurie Hamon, Conservation Biologist for The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, will present about tracking and conserving our native bumble bees with community science! Nearly half of southeastern bumble bee species are at risk of extinction. To protect our bees, conservationists need more information about our rare bumble bees and their habitat requirements. This presentation will cover the background of the Southeast Bumble Bee Atlas, their findings so far, and how you can get involved. Visit conservingcarolina.org/calendar for more information and to register! The Saluda Library Speaker Series is held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 44 West Main Street, Saluda, NC. This program series is made possible thanks to Polk County Public Libraries’ partnership with Conserving Carolina, and a generous Free Community Events grant from Polk County Community Foundation. Contact Pam Torlina at pam@conservingcarolina.org with questions.

T-Rex Tea Party Storytime 

Tuesday, August 20 @ 10:30am 

Saluda Library 

We’ll have a special storytime with dinosaur books and activities, then celebrate with a T-Rex tea party afterwards! If your little dinosaur has food sensitivities, feel free to bring an alternative snack for them to enjoy. Storytime is designed for ages 2-5.

Wills, Advanced Directives, & Powers of Attorney 

Thursday, August 29 @ 2pm 

Saluda Library 

Join us for a special presentation by Pisgah Legal Services, as their experts guide you through the ins and outs of wills, advanced directives, and powers of attorney.

Saluda Community Table (SCT)

Thriving communities & sustainable agriculture create beautiful partnerships.

The Saluda Community Table is excited to invite you to our 2^nd Annual Farm to Table Supper on Tuesday, August 9 at the Saluda Senior Center from 5:30-7pm. It will be a joyous celebration of local farmers and vineyard owners.

You’ll feast on a variety of dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients from nearby farms. The menu includes grilled zucchini, gazpacho, fruit salad, corn on the cob, deviled eggs, breads, and much more. Thanks to our friends at Caitlyn Farms, we will serve farm raised beef prepared by The Rural Seed Restaurant. Save room for dessert! Our vegetarian guests will have options, and meals are free with donations appreciated.

There’s a place for you at our farm celebration! We promise you’ll feast on a plateful of summertime freshness and hear the best little toe tappin’ band around!

We encourage sustainability—bring your plate, utensils, & cups, please. Designated Handicap Drop Off/Pick Up is located at the front door. Parking is available around the Center, at the Railroad Tracks, and the Methodist Church.

To receive updates or ask questions, contact Charlotte Lovett (clovett5987@gmail.com) and to become a SCT volunteer, contact Gayle Jones (gaylejones016@gmail.com).

The Saluda Pantry is enthusiastically grateful to have been awarded a significant grant from the Carolina Foothills Foundation. This grant will be used to support the Pantry’s unique and thriving Farm to Neighbor Program. The funding will both enable us to sustain the relationships we’ve established with local farmers and expand healthy, fresh produce offerings to our shoppers throughout the year.

The coordinator of the Farm to Neighbor program, Susan Casey, expressed her gratitude and excitement about the opportunities this grant provides. “We’re so grateful for the generous support of the Carolina Foothills Foundation. This grant allows us to continue funding the Farm to Neighbor program which supports local farmers and increases opportunities for small farm retention in our area. Fresh, local food provides nutritious and flavorful products for our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.”

The Carolina Foothills Foundation awarded $3.5 million to 38 local nonprofits in Polk and Rutherford Counties. The projects they support target elder care, youth development and wellness.



We are the heartbeat of female visionaries, everywhere. We are women building businesses, and creating our own definitions of success! Excuse Us is a community, a pool…an ocean of love and PASSION to say YES to our calling of entrepreneurship. Together we meet here, experienced and novice, to share, laugh, witness, and lift up one another. No woman should have to wonder if she has enough guts or money or experience to bring her idea into the world. All women, regardless of age, race, background, beliefs or orientation have a voice in our community.

Excuse Us While We Succeed is a self-supporting body. As each of us find new levels of success, we give back to those just beginning. There is no room for judgment here, because we all start from a place of hope and lean into those who have paved the way. We are mothers, daughters, friends, partners, and students and WE. BUILD. BUSINESSES.

We invite you to join our brand-new Category-Exclusive Networking Group in Polk County. Category-exclusive means that we will only have one member in the group for each job category.

Already reserved job categories in Polk: 

Realtor

CBD/Plant Wellness

Wellness​: Skincare and Vitamin Products

Bookkeeper

Insurance - High Net Value

Massage, Infrared Sauna, Lymphatic drainage

Esthetician 

Financial Advisor

Mental Health Care

To learn more and register please visit https://www.excuseus.org/membership or

reach out to Ashley Sandahl at ashley@lookingglassrealty.com

or by phone or text at (828) 817-6515

Join Sister City at The Community Table

Sister City Board members are cooking a great fresh Italian dinner, “Pasta Fresca,” accompanied by the famous Wildflour Bake Shop Italian focaccia. Join us July 23 at Saluda Senior Center (5:30-7:00) and meet our Italian summer exchange students, Nora Criscio and Marta Pignatelli. Marta will join the musicians and pick along. They leave Saluda July 25 to spend a few days with Judy Ward and her family a Lake Norman before flying home.

Are you Gluten Free? Come to Italy!

The Palazzo Tour D’Eau has created a special week, May 25-31, 2025, just for those who are Gluten intolerant. In addition to the usually all-inclusive (except your airfare) week in Carunchio, with the cooking lessons and touring around Abruzzo. Chef Dino has carefully curated an unforgettable culinary adventure for those who savor gluten-free delicacies. All-inclusive cost is 2400 Euros ($2,614 today) if paid in cash, or 2500 Euros if charged to your credit card. That is Sister City’s half price deal.

*Savor Authentic Gluten-Free Italian Dishes: Delight in traditional recipes crafted without gluten, from pasta to pastries.

*Hands-On Cooking Classes: Learn the secrets of gluten-free cooking in interactive sessions, where you’ll create and taste your own masterpieces.

*Wine and Dine: Enjoy exquisite wine pairings with your gluten-free meals, enhancing your gastronomic journey.

June 2, 2024, Flower Festival Trip

A week in Carunchio at the restored Palazzo, all your meals, tours, cooking lessons and the annual Flower Festival…. what’s not to love?! Come be part of the experience.  It’s a beautiful time of year in Italy and this trip provides a unique opportunity to be part of the village festival as you construct Saluda’s submissions to the festival using real flowers, petals, and all things organic. If you want to stay longer, we’ll help you plan additional days. All-inclusive cost is 2400 Euros ($2,614 today) if paid in cash, or 2500 Euros if charged to your credit card. Below is one of the June 2024 submissions by our Saluda visitors. For full information, contact Sister City below.

For any questions, contact Judy Thompson at 828-489-6578 or JD@JDThompsonLaw.com. Visit our website at saludasistercity.org and sign up for the every-other-month newsletter so you don’t miss anything. You can also become a member and support the work with do with the children and for the community.

Polk County’s only podcast, Polk Lore, will be on hiatus until September to prepare for election season, but there are plenty of recent episodes that you might have missed, including:

·       The Biden dilemma: A local perspective on what do about it: County Democrats might think that the fate of the Democratic Party’s leader is out of their hands, and they’d almost be right. But not quite. Technically, the delegates to this month’s national convention are supposed to represent members of the Democratic Party, including those in Polk County, and there are provisions for extraordinary circumstance. Meet one of those delegates.

·       Vulture vomit and mouthless moths: How do you get kids to hold on to that sense of awe and wonder that they all have before aging into our smartphone-addicted culture? Loti Woods and Dale Weiner have the answer. It’s called Champions for Wildlife.

·       Encouraging curiosity (and not just about books): Library director Marcie Dowling reminds us not to take the good things in life — like a library that lends out a whole lot more than just books. The episode was recorded in just. such an offering: one of Saluda Library’s new soundproof meeting/study booths.

Catch up and find links to all other episodes, which are available on Apple, Spotify, and other platforms, at polklore.com.

Looking Glass Realty LLC is now offering property management services for long term rentals in Saluda and the surrounding areas. Please contact the Looking Glass Realty Saluda office at 828-749-4663 for information.

Presentations Will Share Saluda Grade Trail Study

The public is invited to two upcoming presentations that will share findings from a year-long, in-depth study of the proposed Saluda Grade Trail. The North Carolina meeting will be held on Aug. 6 at Polk County High School in Columbus, NC at 6:00 PM. The South Carolina meeting will be held on Aug. 13 at the Gramling United Methodist Church in Inman, SC at 6:00 PM.

The study of the Saluda Grade Trail was conducted by the firm TPD, Inc., which will present their findings. Leaders from the coalition of nonprofits spearheading the proposed 31-mile rail trail will also be present. These nonprofits include Conserving Carolina; PAL: Play, Advocate, Live Well; and Upstate Forever. Together, these groups formed the Saluda Grade Trail Conservancy to advance the trail.

These presentations will address:

·       Findings from public input – community goals and concerns

·       Rail to trail development process

·       Existing condition of the trail corridor and bridges

·       Trail design and safety recommendations from the engineering team

·       Projected regional economic impacts

Teresa Buckwalter, a multimodal transportation planner with TPD, Inc., says, “TPD was very excited to bring together a team of experienced professionals to develop the feasibility study for the iconic Saluda Grade rail line in conjunction with this group of visionary partners. The feasibility study, which acts as a roadmap for implementation before the design phase, will assist the partners and stakeholders to identify challenges and seek funding to make the vision for this regional asset a reality.”

To learn more about the Saluda Grade Trail, sign up for emails, or make a donation to the trail, go to saludagradetrail.org.



WALKS IN THE WOODS

August 4th - Ollie's Falls/Missing 40 This 1-mile loop of moderate, wooded trail will take about 1-2 hours. The trail head is located on Pearson Falls Road just above the concrete bridge over the North Pacolet River. The trail is well blazed, kid and pet friendly, and has several easy water crossings.

August 18th- Green River Cove Trail Walk along Old Cove Road that went from Saluda to Green River in the 1920’s. The trail follows a stream down to Fish Top Access. The walk will be easy to moderate, occasionally steep, but with great views!

September 1-Henry's Nature Center Explore the wooded terrain of Henry’s Nature Center on this 2-mile walk that transverses an old home site and the new Pavilion honoring Henry Cart who loved to explore the woods of Saluda.

Walkers meet at the parking lot of the Saluda Library at 2 pm. A SCLT member will keep you aware of the terrain of the trail and share their insights about the history, flora, and fauna of the area.

  Prepare for each walk with comfortable shoes, a walking stick, water, and maybe a snack. Feel free to bring your field guides and a camera. Please provide any pertinent medical history to your guide. Many of these hikes will access private property. SCLT has obtained the owners' permission to allow you to access these areas that are normally not available to the public.

Call ahead to determine whether the hike will welcome four-footed companions.

For more information contact

the SCLT office (828) 749-1560

info@saludaclt.org

Exploring Saluda’s African American History

The Reclamation Park Project

The Saluda Community Land Trust has acquired a small piece of land that was formerly a thriving African American Neighborhood during the early 20th Century.

In accordance with our mission as a land trust, to “preserve undeveloped land in commercial and residential areas for agriculture and public use [and] establish greenways and parks to connect people,

land and community,” the SCLT intends to create a public park in this space.

One facet of the Reclamation Park project is to provide protection and stewardship for the land, but the establishment of the park is also a way to pay homage to the former neighborhood, and to bring Saluda’s under-told African American history to the forefront. In an effort to engage the community in this project, SCLT has partnered with the Historic Saluda Committee, along with public historian Emily Cadmus, to offer a series of free educational programs about regional African American history.

The next program will be on July 26th, at McCreery Park, beginning at 4pm. You can learn more about the Reclamation Park project and find out how to get involved at reclamationpark.org

Meet New Board Members

Residents in the Mountain Page community of Henderson County, Erik and his wife Susan have lived full-time in Saluda for 27 years, along with their two sons. Erik is a landscape architect with the US Forest Service, and recreation program manager for the Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie, and Croatan National Forests.

We're Getting Closer to the Grand Opening of Henry’s Nature Center

Here's how you can help:

Donate money to Saluda Community Land Trust and designate ‘Henry’s Nature Center’

Donate:

-Planting Mix

-Mulch

-Native Plants

(Contact Kate at 828-606-9315 for more detailed information) Join the Landscape Team. Contact Kate so we can add you to our text notifications. Regularly scheduled workdays are 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 9-12, subject to change according to weather or other factors.

  Let's work together to further develop and maintain this

beautiful 20-acre nature park.

Find out more about this project by going to our web site:

Saludaclt.org

SCLT Monthly Board Meeting

SCLT Board Meeting is scheduled for

August 7th at 4:00.

Please contact the office for specifics.

Please keep Twin Lakes in mind when planning events in the coming year. This outdoor venue can be reserved for birthdays, weddings, and other special events.

SCLT appreciates support from the Polk County Community Foundation.

Please feel free to contact us about any of our projects by calling our office at 828-749-1560 and leaving a message. We will return your call promptly or send an email to info@saludaclt.org. 

We look forward to your comments and suggestions. www.saludaclt.org

Pearson’s Falls and Glen

For a fun adventure before school starts, bring your family and a picnic and enjoy the 1/4 mile hike up Colt Creek to the 90’ waterfall. The temperature is always cooler in the glen.

In August you can see many butterflies, moths, spiders, mushrooms and many kinds of ferns. The late summer flowers are beginning to bloom - asters, ironweed, liatris and goldenrod. Benches and picnic tables are placed along the trail so you can sit, take your time and enjoy being outside in nature. 

Pearson’s Falls is located three miles south of Saluda off Highway 176. You will see signs with directions to the Pearson’s Falls entrance at 2748 Pearson’s Falls Road.

No dogs are allowed.           No wading or swimming in the creek.

Admission is $5, ages 6 - 12 $1, and under 6 free. Annual passes are available.

Open Labor Day!  Hours are 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Sunday (The gate closes at 5 PM).

For more information go to www.pearsonsfalls.org. or call 828-894-0301.

The Tryon Garden Club has owned and maintained Pearson’s Falls since 1931. Admission funds are used to maintain the park. The Tryon Garden Club is a proud sponsor of Saluda Lifestyles.

Submitted by Lucy Brannon



SALUDA GARDEN CLUB       

AUGUST EVENT   

Mark your calendars now for this unique hands-on program that combines fashion and nature. Participants will learn the basics of the Steam Eco Dyeing Method to create beautiful scarves out of Mother Nature’s materials. Flowers, ferns, leaves, onion skins, etc. will be used to create a one-of-a-kind100% silk scarf for each student. Botanicals have their own natural pigments that transfer by using simple ingredients-water, vinegar, and heat- and the results are organic and beautiful.

The date for this event is Monday, August 19 and class will be held in the courtyard of Susan Cannon’s Saluda Moon Glass Studio in downtown Saluda. Lori Loftus will be the instructor. The event is open to Garden Club members only.

If you want to become a member and register for the class, call Susan Cannon at 937-623-1998. Details will be sent to you via email once you are registered.

Summertime! Make Memories. Engrave those memories on a Pace Park Brick.

Our engraver is now officially licensed to engrave Military Emblems on your Paver. 

   Purchase a paver for those you love or in memory of loved ones.

  Pavers for Pace Park is a community fund raiser to support the completion of public restrooms in this pocket park on Main Street. The Park is in the alley by M. A. Pace General Store and is the location of a Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Interpretation Sign and future public restrooms.

   Bricks are $50 & $60 with one clipart payable to City of Saluda.

  You may have three lines of copy with a maximum of 15 letters per line.

Forms can be obtained from City Hall, City of Saluda website, or can be requested from Catherine Ross at carnc@charter.net or 828-749-3534. Applications can be sent to City of Saluda, PO Box 248, Saluda, NC 28773. Contact Catherine Ross for gift cards to be sent.

The Saluda Historic Depot and Museum and Sweet Shoppe are open Thursday through Saturday 12-4 and Sundays 1-4. Requested special group tours can be scheduled any day of the week and any time of year. Entrance to the museum is FREE.

We invite all groups and organizations to take a guided tour of the Depot. To arrange a tour, please contact Mike Reeves at 828-674-9598 or email Nita High at nitahigh@rsnet.org

Thomas The Tank celebrates his 79^th birthday. Visit Thomas at the Saluda Historic Depot. He is on display daily.

Saluda Train Tales

August 16- Marion Mayor Steven Little will discuss “Convicts who built the Railway”

September 20-Ray Rapp will speak on “Real Prospects for Restoring Passenger Rail Service to WNC”

October- TBD

November- TBD

December- Saluda Hometown     

                   Christmas

Where are your used books?? We are now accepting book donations at the Saluda Historic Depot. So clear your shelves and make room for more books to read. Bring your used books by the depot on Thursdays through Sunday afternoons. 

 Please continue to donate your gently used books by calling Nita High at 828-747-8692 or by dropping off books at the depot.

Polk County Community Foundation Awards Grant to Saluda Historic Depot

The Saluda Historic Depot and Museum has been awarded a Polk County Community Foundation Grant to fund the third annual Night at the Museum project. The purpose of this event is to help fulfill the mission of the Saluda Historic Depot and Museum to unite the citizens of Saluda in the preservation and operation of the historic Saluda train depot as a heritage museum emphasizing the significance and contribution of the railroad, the Saluda Grade and the history of the town of Saluda. 

It was announced on June 28th that the Museum will receive money to fund this free community event which will be held in October. Funds will include money for costumes, food, and music for the evening’s event. Area citizens are invited to attend and view the reenactment of our town’s history.

The Saluda Historic Depot and Museum’s Board Members are very grateful to the Polk County Community Foundation for their support which will help preserve and maintain the Saluda Historic Depot and Museum as a local historical destination for our area communities.

August SHD Train Tales features

Marion Mayor, Steven Little

Steve Little, the Mayor of Marion, North Carolina, is known for his deep involvement in the history of railroad construction in the area. He has performed a one-man show titled “Life of a Railroad Convict,” which depicts the harsh conditions faced by convict laborers during the construction of the Old Fort Loops¹. Additionally, Steve Little has authored several books on the subject, including “Tunnels, Nitro, and Convicts,” which details the construction of the Western North Carolina Railroad from 1875-1879.

Mayor Little will be guest speaker at the Saluda Historic Depot’s August Train Tales. Doors open at 6:30 and the program begins at 7:00 PM. Admission is free to all. 

Saluda Historic Depot’s 9^th Annual Golf Tournament

We are already planning for the 9^th Annual SHD Golf Tournament. Mark your calendar for October 14th at beautiful Bright’s Creek, a Tom Fazio-designed golf course located in the Blue Ridge Mountain community of Mill Springs, NC. The registration fee will be $175 per player and includes green fee, cart, lunch, goodie bags and award’s dinner. 

Registration is easy by visiting SaludaHistoricDepot.com and clicking under Events. You can download the entry application, print the form and send to savesaludadepot@gmail.com. There is a PayPal option to pay with a credit card. You can also send completed forms and payment to Saluda Historic Depot, P.O. Box 990, Saluda, NC 28773. Registration deadline is September 25, 2024. You can also sign up as a sponsor of this event on the same website. For more information on registering, please contact Bruce.Hunt190@gmail.com.

All proceeds go to support the Saluda Historic Depot and Museum.



Preserving Saluda’s Past for its Future

THE APPALACHIAN CHANNEL OF YOUTUBE FAME VISITS SALUDA

 The Historic Saluda Committee invited John Ward with The Appalachian Channel to visit Saluda. The first video released features the historic Thompson's Store and Ward's Grill. 

https://youtu.be/4u6Rzk4WDtU?si=bV9Pehyc4V6occDv

Featured in a second video is the historic M. A. Pace General Store with owner and mayor of Saluda Tangie Morgan and Cindy Tuttle with the HSC. Come take a walk through this historic Saluda landmark. Side note: Intro film footage recorded by Cindy in 1996 using a large VHS camcorder capturing a visit between her grandmother, Kathleen Garren Stephenson Jelley and Robert Pace. Classic!

https://youtu.be/ZHDEii4tfUw?si=aCqKfgf0H62cr-Kz

  More videos to follow including a walk along Saluda’s historic downtown district and a tour of the Saluda Historic Depot.

BREAKING NEWS! RELEASED IN 2016 IN DVD FORMAT, OUR FILM "GOING HOME: SALUDA'S MUSIC TRADITIONS" IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR FREE ON YOUTUBE! 

https://youtu.be/eqFZ3SITiDo?si=Z_NRgz_ToPQue1QA

The Historic Saluda Committee (HSC) is pleased to offer “Going Home: Saluda’s Music Traditions,” an oral history film documentary celebrating Saluda’s musical heritage to our YouTube followers at no cost. The old saying is, “You can’t go home again.” But, maybe you can. The HSC has been collecting oral histories through audio and video since 2010, primarily from its senior citizens. A common theme relayed during the gathering of these stories is a deep nostalgia for the rich and diverse musical traditions that were once and still are popular in Saluda.

The Historic Saluda Committee enlisted the help of the Polk County Film Initiative to take these oral histories, collect a few new ones, and then roll them into a fascinating film documentary that portrays Saluda's rich musical heritage, where the past meets the present. Sure to delight, these recollections include tales of the old-time square dances, shape note singing, legendary fiddle makers and players, the influence of the railroad, a ragtime pianist, gospel greats, ballad singers, musical miracles, African-American history, Coon Dog Day, a famous baritone crooner and more. Rolling into the present day, featured is contemporary gospel, old-time and Americana acts and some of today's great music venues, including a visit to Studio B at Western NC's famed radio station WNCW.

Over sixty individuals from the past and present-day are highlighted in the film along with a smorgasbord of musicians, such as Bob Whitaker, the Saluda Grade String Band, the Aaron Burdett Band, Tellico, Changed, James Metcalf and The Colt Creek Band, and many more.

Involved in the making of the film include - Creator and Producer: Cindy Stephenson Tuttle; Cinematographer, Writer and Editor: Kirk Gollwitzer; Associate Producer, Writer and Narrator: Martin Anderson; Creative Consultant: Carolyn Ashburn; Location Director, First Assistant Camera and Still Photography: Lavin Cuddihee.

Funding was provided by the Polk County Community Foundation’s Saluda Fund, the City of Saluda, the Historic Saluda Committee, Heartwood Contemporary Crafts Gallery, WNCW a Media Sponsor, The Purple Onion, Betsy and Allen Burdett, Rhonda Corley, Anita Ogden Moore, Historic Thompson’s Store, Martin Anderson and Brad and Cindy Stephenson Tuttle

Our Next Meeting

The Historic Saluda Committee will meet on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Saluda Public Library. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. For scheduled meetings, updates, or cancellations, please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/historicsaluda for more information. Join us and see what it is all about!

Who Are We? The Historic Saluda Committee (HSC) is an official committee under the jurisdiction of the City of Saluda. The Saluda Board of Commissioners appoints a seven-member panel and the HSC Chair may appoint additional at-large members. For more information about the Historic Saluda Committee go to www.historicsaluda.org or contact us at historicsaluda@gmail.com. Check us out on Facebook. Follow our oral history project on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@HistoricSaludaNC.

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for (audience)? Why should they care (benefit)? What do I want them to do (call-to-action)?

Create a great offer by adding words like "free," "personalized," "complimentary," or "customized." A sense of urgency often helps readers take action, so consider inserting phrases like "for a limited time only" or "only 7 remaining!"

Fun fact about August:

On August 6, 1762, the first-ever sandwich was created, at least with such a name. It was named after the Earl of Sandwich when he requested a dish involving meat between two pieces of bread. As the story goes, he requested it as he was in the middle of a gambling game and didn’t want to interrupt it.

Well, we don’t want to interrupt your poker or bridge games, but we do want you to come into River Dog Run! We have the perfect items to finish your summer!

Our cool aprons are the perfect garment for these temps: worn with a cotton tee shirt and shorts or leggings they are air conditioning for the body! And so well made!

We have gorgeous pottery wine glasses that call for a chilled glass of white wine on the porch! Speaking of the porch, we have the perfect pillow for your head that also makes the true statement “Life is better on the Porch.” We have an assortment of decorative and pillows with pithy sayings that will cause conversation and napping!

Along with the wine glasses we have platters for serving appetizers. You make it taste good and we’ll make it look good!

And the dogs! We have well-behaved dogs’ courtesy of potter Susie Hearn! She finds the most incredible items and then uses her extensive pottery skills to craft a dog to fit them. We have a lifeguard, a pilot, dog in a canoe and dogs relaxing in rattan chairs. Hers are one-of-a-kind offerings that are synonymous with Saluda!

To make your room or porch smell great we have five flavors of candles! Green River Currant and Mountain Magnolia are two popular varieties. The others include Carolina Pine, Saluda Sweet Pea, and Blackberry Trails & Grapefruit. All create a smell that is pleasant but not overpowering.

So, put down those cards and meander into River Dog Run for a sure winning hand!

River Dog Run is open 7 days a week.

Open Monday-Saturday 11AM. Sunday noon till 4PM.

For a special showing or questions, call 828-551-1461.

Well-mannered four-legged friends are always welcome and will receive a “snack!” Water bowl outside if they just want to window shop!

Another Appalachian August is upon us! Hints of autumn arrive as flecks of color adorn the hillsides, gardens overflow with produce and the seasons' first batch of apples arrive at Wildflour bakery. Join us for seasonal delights like cakes, scones and family favorites like Friday night pizza! Wildflour will be open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 2, Wednesday and Friday nights from 5 to 8, and Sunday from 9 to 2. Thank you for another amazing summer, we look forward to seeing you this August! 

Sunday, August 4th

Peach Crumble French Toast

Bread pudding style french toast layered with Carolina peaches and topped with a cinnamon crumble. Served with fresh fruit salad.

Breakfast Burrito 

Two farm fresh scrambled eggs, chorizo, hashbrowns, green onions and house-made cilantro sauce. Served with a side of cheese grits or hashbrowns.

Sunday, August 11th

Key Lime Blackberry Pancakes

Golden brown pancakes paired with key lime pie filling, fresh blackberry sauce and a swirl of whipped cream. Served with fresh fruit.

Summer Peach Panini 

Grilled sourdough bread with slow roasted pork, fresh peaches, rosemary, mozzarella and balsamic glaze. Served with a garden salad.

Sunday, August 18th 

Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwich 

Fresh and light chicken salad dressed with Caesar on a bed of spring greens, topped with shaved parmesan on a freshly baked bun. Served with chips & a dill pickle.

Tomato Herb Frittata

Wildflours' frittata is elevated with the seasons’ best tomatoes, feta cheese and fresh herbs. Served with cheese grits or hashbrowns. 

Sunday, August 25

Munster Mash Sandwich

Roasted turkey, crispy bacon, Munster cheese, pink pickled red onion, avocado, hummus, and romaine lettuce layered on top of fresh Wildflour bread. Served with house-made pasta salad.

Tiramisu Waffle

A Fluffy chocolate chip waffle topped with a dollop of mascarpone cream and drizzled with coffee syrup. Served with a side of fresh fruit salad.



The Orchard Inn & Newman's Restaurant & Spa

  How many shades of green can you see as you sit on our front porch, terrace or gazebo while sipping a cool refreshing cocktail? More than you can count on one hand for sure. The temperature may be rising but it's always cool up here under 100' poplar and oak trees with a fresh breeze always present. As you ascend the winding driveway to our 12-acre elegant mountain oasis, restaurant and spa, framed with beautiful summer plants, the stress of normal day to day life immediately starts to drift away. The official welcome committee (our Boxer girl - Roxy) will be standing by to challenge you with a stick and walk you up the steps to our antebellum front porch where she might attempt to lure you into a game of tug of war. Don't be tempted - you're sure to lose. Welcome to the Orchard Inn & Spa and Newman's Restaurant where the temperature is cool, the atmosphere is serene and the hospitality warm. Come help us celebrate 98 years of gracious southern living. 

Our fine dining restaurant, Newman's, continues to receive high accolades from food critics far and wide and sells out most every meal. Voted by Our State Magazine as one of the top 14 "must experience restaurants" in North Carolina. We've created a lovely covered outside dining area on our back terrace with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. We serve dinner every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights starting at 5:30 pm, and an incredible Brunch every Sunday beginning at 11:30 am. At Newman's Restaurant we strive to bring diners a true "farm to table" gastronomic experience. Treat yourself to a most creatively prepared and delicious fine dining culinary adventure! You don't have to be a guest of the Inn to enjoy a meal at Newman's. Our amazing 3-course brunch is only $47.50 and goes from 11:30-1:30 every Sunday. Our 4-course dinners are a great value at $95. Every seat in the elegant dining room has a fabulous view of the surrounding mountains, and the fire table on our lower terrace is a perfect place to enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine or local beer prior to dinner. It's hard to find a better meal in the great culinary towns of Asheville, Greenville or Charleston. We are literally a diamond in the woods. Call 828-749-5471 now to book a table this weekend before it's too late. Now serving awesome cocktails and mixed beverages for your enjoyment!

On September 5th and October 17th we will again be hosting a Honey Tasting and Apiary Tour with the Bee experts from Sandy Bee Mine. Immerse yourselves in the world of bees and honey where you will be able to celebrate the world's most industrious creatures. Throughout the afternoon you will experience a curated honey tasting session, food pairing, and charcuterie lunch presented by Newman's. Sample a variety of honeys and hone your tasting skills with a sensory analysis, unraveling the unique flavor profiles of each honey variety. Enjoy a charcuterie lunch with complimentary glass of wine or beer, curated to complement the honey, and enjoy a gastronomic journey that highlights the marriage of food and nature. Get suited up in a full bee suit and take a guided tour of our own bee yard. With a seasoned beekeeper leading the way, you'll gain firsthand insights into the life inside a honeybee colony. During your up-close--but safe--encounter with the pollinators, you will get to hold frames, spot the queen, and inspect hives. Book tickets at Sandy Bee Mine's website: https://sandybeemine.com/pages/honey-tastings-and-apiary-tours $125 per person.

Our Spa is open and all are welcome. We've created a very zen-like environment where you can de-stress, unwind, relax and be pampered with an array of therapeutic massages or restorative facials by highly skilled therapists. We are now offering all organic healing products from Appalachian Growers. We are also offering local discounts, so come by and check us out! The Koi fish are waiting to greet you. It's a perfect place to have a girl's afternoon off and sit by the waterfall while sipping a glass of wine after a heavenly treatment 

Now offering Tai chi classes for all age groups and levels of experience. Saturday mornings from 8:00am to 9:00am, by appointment. Classes are $20 per person and Tai chi & Breakfast is $45 per person.

Originally built in 1926 and called the Mountain Home of Southern Railway Clerks the Inn sits on 12 acres, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a member of the distinguished Select Registry and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. There are 8 rooms upstairs in the Inn, all with private baths and lovely mountain views, a suite downstairs, 5 private cottages with decks or screened in porches, Jacuzzi tubs, and gas fireplaces, plus 2 new mountain view luxury suites. All rooms are tastefully decorated with antiques and period pieces, and our linens are ultra luxurious. The gracious hosts, Marc & Marianne look forward to welcoming you to their little slice of heaven. We're proud to announce being awarded by Trip Advisor - 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 Certificate of Excellence, and by Open Table - No. 1 Restaurant in Western N.C. 

We look forward to greeting you soon!

Marc & Marianne

The Orchard Inn & Newman's Restaurant & Spa

an elegant mountain retreat & fine dining restaurant

Saluda, NC  28773

828-749-5471

www.orchardinn.com

What do you really know about Saluda Outfitters and Green River Eddy’s Tap Room and Grill?

  Do you know that our business is located at 435 E. Main in Saluda in a three-story log cabin?

  Do you know that the store started out as an outfitter store selling outdoor clothing and supplies in April 2017?

  Do you know that the next year, the owners expanded the offerings to include the taproom and grill?

  Do you know that our business is open seven days a week?

  Do you know that we have a full commissary kitchen downstairs just like—or even larger and better than--other restaurants where we do food prep and food storage?

  Do you know that we have a huge cooler downstairs for keeping our beer kegs ice cold?

  Do you know that we smoke our own meats onsite using blended woods for flavoring whether it is for our barbecue sandwiches or pork plates (which is why our sign says, “Best BBQ in Town!”), our chicken wings, or our chicken breasts for sandwiches and chicken salad?

  Do you know that our food truck, unlike what most people think of when they hear “food truck,” is a permanent kitchen where we have our fryers and prepare our food orders?

  Do you know that you place your order inside the building at the bar, seat yourself in our inside or outside seating area and have your food delivered to you? You do NOT order at the food truck window or have to wait there to get your food like a typical food truck.

  Do you know that we serve food, craft beers, and specialty cocktails from our awesome taproom and grill from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and until 9 p.m. on Sundays and weeknights?

  Do you know that we can seat more up to 60 people inside on our main level and more than that on our outdoor expansive deck and under our covered front and back porches?

  Do you know that because of our large seating capacity, we can accommodate groups and host special events like wedding luncheons or dinners, birthday parties, family reunions or other gatherings and even book a band for your event?

  Do you know that we are both child and dog friendly, even keeping water bowls and treats for our well-behaved furry friends?

  Do you know that we have a pool table downstairs and family-oriented games like corn hole outside?

  Do you know that we book live music year-round? Currently every Friday and Saturday night from 7-10 p.m. and on Sundays from 2-5 p.m.

  Do you know that we are hosting karaoke every second and fourth Wednesday of the month?

   Do you know that our upstairs level is filled with retail clothing for men, women and some children’s items, along with a shoe department, fishing gear and other outdoor gear for camping, hiking and other year-round outdoor adventures?

  Our operation has basically three businesses under one roof—outfitter retail store, taproom and grill, and live music venue. We love having new customers drop by and check out all that we have to offer.

  With school soon to open, we are prepared to help families get ready to end their summer. Our store is stocked with lots of summer shorts, tops and dresses. We have added educational items as well as gift items for visitors looking for something to take back home from their vacations.

  We invite all our visitors to stay abreast of all our sales, activities and upcoming events by signing up for our online newsletter or by checking events on our website www.saludaoutfitters.com. You can also check out all our upcoming live music events elsewhere in this publication.

Retail Hours: Now Open 7 Days a Week

—10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday

—10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays

Tap Room and Kitchen Hours:

—11 a.m. to closing daily

Contact Information:

Call the store at 828-848-4060 or email info@saludaoutfitters.com. Check out our Facebook pages and Instagrams. To stay informed about upcoming menu changes, live music dates and retail sales, sign up for our brief weekly updates via text or email by visiting https://saludaoutfitters.com/.

August at the Purple Onion

  Long days, bright with sunshine and saturated with the vibrancy of life. Our mountains are lush with vegetation and creatures of all shapes. Our air is warm and wafts the scents of cut grass, dense undergrowth, and a splash of sunscreen. As the sun beams down on us, we take refuge in the shade of our dense forests, reveling in our sparkling water falls, relaxing among the greatest of gifts summer offers - time. More hours to spend indulging in hobbies, wandering a new trail, laughing with loved ones. We hope August finds you well and invite you to come nourish, satiate, and perhaps pamper yourself a little with us. Come indulge in the essence of life and enjoy. 

Second Saturday Art Stroll

Join us for our monthly Saluda Art Stroll, every second Saturday. This August 10th, beginning at 4 p.m., all of the shops and businesses of Saluda will stay open for this evening of art, food, and fun. Both the Purple Onion and The SPOT will be open, showcasing stunning artwork and photographs on their walls. Come see all that Saluda has to offer.

Art Rotation

Our walls are refreshed with vibrant colors and lush scenes from our area. We are truly thankful to live in such a bright area, bursting with talent. We invite you in for a different sort of feast, a feeding of your soul, if you will. See the strokes and movement of brush take life and simultaneously take your breath away.

Hours

Monday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Tuesday - Closed

Wednesday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Thursday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The SPOT

Get ready for some fun and excitement as we continue Trivia Night! Trivia starts at 6 pm, every other Sunday. Gather your friends and family, test your knowledge, and compete for fantastic prizes. Whether you're a trivia buff or just looking for a good time, our Trivia Nights are the perfect way to enjoy the warm summer evenings. Keep an eye out for more details and join us for a night of laughter, friendly competition, and great memories. See you there!

Hours

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - Closed

Wednesday Closed

Thursday 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

#thespotstop

#hangatthespot

#thespotconnection

#gatheratthespot

http://www.thespotsaluda.com

Hiring for the Season

The Purple Onion (S & L Restaurant Group) has begun hiring for the season. Come work in a team-oriented, high-volume, fast-paced, environment to deliver the best dining experience to our guests. Looking for positions in both Front of House and Back of House. Fill out an application online here or come in and ask for a paper version.

Saluda Classified Ads



House & Pet Sitting

Enjoy your vacation! 

Come home to happy pets and your home well taken care of. 

Cassandra recommends…

Tony Ledbetter, 828.388.4575

Saluda Acupuncture is moving two doors down to a more handicap-accessible location. The current office can be available to rent as early as July 1st, or if preferred, August 1st. 

- 2nd floor Office

- Approximately 375 sq feet (25 x 15 roughly) plus additional small bathroom

- Private and quiet, 12 month lease

- Mini-split heater/AC

- Not for general retail. Good for therapist, healing arts, away-from-home office

- Ability to advertise on building front and at sidewalk level

- $525 month plus $65 month flat for utilities (electric/water/trash)

Inquiries, please email: asha@saludaacupuncture.com

Eco-Friendly House Cleaning

Tania West looking for house cleaning jobs. Fair rates, uses children safe, pet friendly, and eco-friendly cleaning materials. Please contact at 828-817-4771 and ask for Tania.

For rent: Upstairs furnished room with full bath in quiet, serene location in Saluda.

$700 a month, first and last required. Pet considered. 

Call 828-749-2029

House Cleaning

For housekeeping, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Use organic products that are Earth and pet friendly. Phone number is 828-817-4771.

Pet Walker

Lifetime pet owner, currently pet less. Very flexible and has 2 little helpers that will shower your pet with love and long walks. $15 per visit. Contact 786-543-6623 or quychecain@gmail.com.

Thanks Brian, Pixie and Raiden

I am Caitlyn, your local travel advisor with Cruise Planners. I can help you plan and book your dream vacation. Travel in the United States, internationally, or even space. Are you into river or sea cruises, all-inclusive vacations, air travel, Disney, or renting an RV or hotel? Just let me know where you want to go. Call, text or email Caitlyn Bright at 352-328-7967 or caitlyn.bright@cruiseplanners.com 

“Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life”

The Home Healer - Housekeeping

Local artist looking to make your home my next masterpiece. Sweeping, dusting, vacuuming, in-home laundry, plant care, and more. I will need to borrow your supplies for now. For rates and availability please contact Asia at 305-240-5362 or thehomehealer888@gmail.com.

Yard work, cleaning cutters, pressure washing, drywall and finishing, painting, clearing out, remodeling, and landfill runs. Free estimates call Heather 828-817-5582 and visit our fb page https://www.facebook.com/pg/ElAmigoHelper

Mountain Home Caretakers 

(828)989-0302

Servicing your mountain vacation cabin in Saluda and surrounding areas. Offering rental cleanings, maintenance and repairs, as well as guest services as needed. We have over 13 years of lodging and hospitality experience in Saluda alone. If you need help getting your home cleaned between guests, call us! If you’re looking to get some projects done before hitting the rental market or real estate market, call us! We can help! Affordable rates and reliable services. 

Pet and House Sitting

Older, experienced lady will treat

your house and pets as if they were her own.

Call Melissa at 828-722-4491

Or text 828-817-1696