Thanks to a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation, much needed repairs have been done to Sunnydale, so generously donated to Tryon Little Theater by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lane. 

 

The historic log cabin, built in the 1930s as a community gathering place, served many purposes early in its existence, hosting dinners, events like wedding receptions, proms, Rotary Club meetings, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and theater in-the-round performances. Since then, a number of restaurants and clubs have called Sunnydale its home, and time has taken its toll on the old building. Windows needed replacing, logs had rotted through, and some safety issues in the kitchen needed addressing. 

 

With Polk County Community Foundation’s support, TLT was able to partner with our local high school and its Career and Technical Education department. Under the master guidance of Keith Rimer, students in the high school construction program learned skills towards future potential careers, and in an area that is quite specific – log cabin repair. 

 

“We felt we were killing two birds with one stone,” said Susie Kocher, TLT member and Sunnydale Committee head. “With this generous grant, we were able to fix Sunnydale, and also help our local students get some hands-on experience in a field they plan to pursue. Mr. Rimer and his crew were wonderful to work with – this was definitely a win-win situation.” 

 

• Submitted by Monica Jones