John and Elizabeth Gardner have been inducted into the Second Wind Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Community Chorus. Linda Lee Reynolds, president of the Community Chorus made the presentation .

The award read in part, “In recognition of a useful and productive life, continuing beyond retirement, while others paused to rest.  These dedicated persons caught a ‘second wind’ and began a new career of service to the community and to mankind.”

John and Elizabeth moved to Tryon in 2009 from Arlington, Va. John worked for the U.S. government at the Department of Housing and Urban Development in their think tank and Elizabeth worked in Washington for the VA.

John has sung with the Community Chorus for the past eight years. As a member of the Foothills Music Club he served as treasurer and a board member.  He was instrumental in getting the 501(c)(3) designation for the Foothills Music Club. He has served as a member of the Session at Tryon Presbyterian where he and Elizabeth are members. John has also been active with the Tryon Historical Museum.

Before moving to Tryon, John was active in the National Balalaika Association, Presbyterian Church in DC. He has a bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College in economics and a Ph. D. from the University of Minnesota.

Elizabeth has sung with the Community Chorus for the past eight years and has been a guest soloist for many concerts. As a member of Tryon Presbyterian Church, she was women’s co-team vice chairman. She has been a member of the Foothills Music Club Board of Directors and active with the Tryon Historical Museum. She has also been instrumental in bringing guest performers to our community.

Before moving to Tryon Elizabeth was a member of the National Balalaika Association and in charge of booking their performances.  She also sang in her church choir in Washington. She attended Lynchburg College, Randolph Macon College and New England Conservatory majoring in voice.

Second Wind Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to identify those outstanding volunteers over the age of 60 who contribute so much to the quality of life in our community.

– submitted by Carol Browning