There is nothing in the world more peaceful than apple-leaves with an early moon.” ~ Alice Meynell

Saluda folks are thrilled that Wards Grill is reopening, with a Saluda native who loves our town and cares about the people and buildings of Saluda. Clark Thompson has purchased the Main Street building.

Wards will offer the famous meat counter again, plus add more goodies to the grill menu. Hell have Judy Ward, Charlies widow, help run it. You just cant go wrong with that combination: and these two love our town and people. Home folks indeed. Thank you, Clark!

I hope that Ray McClees down in Tryon knows that he can again find the perfect omelet again. Come on up to Saluda and pick your stool out again at the grill!

As for me, Im looking forward to getting the best hamburger around again. Somehow, its a bet that Charlie Ward is smiling down on all this. I always knew things would be all right in the world when I passed by and saw him out on the street in the white apron, sweeping and whistling. He always had a hug and kind word for folks, too.

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Congratulations to the winners in the juried Saluda Arts Festival.

The award for Best Overall was given to Saludas own Jim Carson. Second-place winners Bill Gramley of Lewisville, who received the award in the 2-D category, and Linda Marie Miller of Inman, S.C., who won for her 3-D artwork.

Bruce Bunch of Taylors, S.C., took third place for his 2-D artwork, and George Getty of Greenville, SC won in the 3-D category. Honorable mention awards were given to Jeff Pittman, Laura Faye Long, Jocelyn Davis and Mike Cowan.

Artwork was judged by Rich Nelson, Robert Dunning and Ben Pfingsta. I breezed through the booths before heading to work, and enjoyed the quality of the art. Remember that Saluda artists will have their art on display at the Senior Center on Greenville Street this month… stop in if you havent yet. Extra thank yous to all hard working volunteers who made the festival happen!

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Get Well Notes: remember Oscar Harbinwho has been a big help with wife Cheryl to our community for many years. Polly Kent fell down steps last month, broke places in her back, broke her right wrist, and is home recuperating. When I called to check on her, she was in good spirits, saying it could have been worse. Jo Dellinger continues to improve from a broken ankle, but its been a slow process. Please remember them, and others who have been under the weather this spring.

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Reminder Note: The Saluda tailgate market is on Fridays at the city parking lot off Main Street (follow the signs) from 4:30 to 6:30 with local produce, flowers, homemade soup, breads, and all manner of goodies. Friendly folks all around; stop by and visit. The smiles are free, and its nice to see little kids, old folks, dogs, and all sorts enjoying Saluda breezes and socializing.

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Saludas unique shops, mighty good restaurants, and quality music offerings have been mentioned in past columns, and now I cant resist mentioning that we have special bed and breakfast places throughout Saluda. Having been in them over the years, as well as being a fan of comfort, beauty, and charm, I can vouch that our innkeepers and inns are top-notch. You can rest at a lovely garden suite, stay at a historical inn with delicious chef-prepared meals, wide porches, and a mountain view thatll knock your socks off, or stroll from a peaceful location to downtown Saluda to have lunch. You can even rent a whole inn if need be. Need a get-away for family, friends, or yourself? Please enjoy our friendly little town: shop local, eat local, stay local, and get local smiles. Were always glad to see you.

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Happy June Birthday to Nancy Barnett, Verne Dawson, Peggy Ellwood, and Terry Arrington. Please add your birthdays to the list! No age mentioned, I promise.

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If you have something of note for this column, feel free to e-mail me at bbardos@gmail.com; or call me at 749-1153.