You can hear him before you see him. Coy Cunningham, the chef at the Pony Express Deli located in The General Store, is a character that you must meet. A song frequently comes with your fresh sandwich or salad, because singing and creating delicious food is what Coy does best. Coy is originally from Tryon, NC where the majority of his family still resides. After working for the equestrian center in Wellington, FL, he has returned home to helm TIEC’s deli.

“My favorite part about my job is the food. I love food in general. I have been a chef for 35 years and I have been very fortunate to make money and do what I absolutely love. It was up to me to make this more than a deli and where we don’t just make sandwiches. People, faces, singing, talking; it’s all a part of the program. This deli is really a stage. It is where I perform at least eight hours a day and I would not have it any different. But the best part about it all is being able to come home to Tryon.”