With a long list of bookings under its belt, Sunnydale can call its first year in operation a resounding success.

The old log cabin on S. Trade Street in Tryon, restored to its original glory and donated to Tryon Little Theater by the generous Bob and Jackie Lane, has well and truly regained its place as a community gathering spot.

Last year Sunnydale hosted fund raisers, a variety show, numerous weddings and Christmas parties, hunt balls, luncheons, retirement and anniversary parties, business meetings, a masquerade ball, contra-dancing, a rock concert, jam sessions, organizational meetings, volunteer appreciation dinners, a Christmas-tree trimming party, as well as an evening with the nationally acclaimed “Unchained Tour,” featuring raconteurs, poets and musicians.

“Sunnydale’s committee and TLT’s past and present boards have worked hard to make this a community-friendly, desirable location,” said Susie Kocher, committee member. “But many others have put their time and talents into making this work. People like Wally Hughes, Mike Verbonic, Seth Davis, Don Bradley, Peter Eisenbrown and Robert Hammerbeck – just to mention a few – have donated time to fix, consult, construct and improve. We had practical input from caterers, and were able to compile a wish list of necessary equipment for the kitchen. So many people are excited about this space and want to see it work on so many different levels.”

Sunnydale has been the recipient of some wonderful donations too, like the baby grand piano from Dr. and Mrs. Ratcliffe of Tryon; Bill Crowell of Saluda Forge and Kathleen Carson of Kathleen’s Gallery designed, fabricated, installed and donated a firescreen for the outside fireplace; and there was an anonymous donation of a 12-foot Christmas tree.

With a much appreciated grant from the Polk County Community Foundation’s Unrestricted Grants Fund, Sunnydale was able to install an audio system, fit railings for the front and side porches and stairs to the lower parking area, commission outdoor signage, complete a floor restoration and purchase much needed equipment for the kitchen.

“I think we can honestly say that this first year has been a blast,” said Rebecca Davis, committee member. “We’ve learned a lot, collaborated with some talented and skilled people, and hope to keep Sunnydale’s legacy as a community gathering spot alive and well for many years to come.”

If you are interested in renting Sunnydale for a wedding, party, conference, fund raiser or celebration, contact Tryon Little Theater at 828-859-2466 or visit www.tltinfo.org for rental information.

– article submitted by Monica Jones