South County Profile: Jeff Peery

Jeff Peery

If there’s a tack and feed store in the Anderson area that has it all, it would have to be Frontier Feed and Saddlery, or so co-owner Jeff Peery says. By the looks of things he’s telling the truth, too. A glance around reveals Breyer model horses, cowboy décor and emergency food rations.

Yes, emergency food rations.

From pineapples to potatoes, Frontier Feed truly does have it all.

“A customer came in,” said Peery. “He had the idea that food rations might be a good addition to the store.”

Perry, an Anderson native whose family settled in the area nearly 100 years ago, is always game to try something new. It’s how he and his sister, Genea, have managed to stay in business during these tough, economic times.

“You have to think outside the box,” he said.

A graduate of West Valley High School, Peery works hard to please his customers.

“I try to work with people. If someone comes in and they say they need this, this and this, but they have a budget, I work with them to make it happen.”

It’s that kind of can-do attitude that separates them from the rest, Peery said. That and the way they take care of their customers.

“We try to treat everyone the same because you never know who might walk in the door.”

Peery also said people were frequently surprised by the interior of his store.

“Most people think we’re just a feed store. People drive by and then walk in and say, ‘Wow … I never knew.’”

But Peery is no stranger to his merchandise.

“I started (working here) as a sophomore because the previous owners were family friends. When it was time for me to get a job, they asked me to come to work for them.

In his own words, he’s been there every since. Of course, it hasn’t been an easy road. Six months after they took over ownership, the recession hit.

“Staying in business has been a challenge,” said Peery. “That’s why we’re trying new things.”

And despite it all, Peery says he still loves his job.

Name: Jeffrey P. Peery

Born where and when: Redding, Calif.

My worst job: Win River Casino, dish washer.

In my spare time I…: I don’t have spare time.

My favorite book: The Sin Eater.

My favorite movie: The Alias series.

My friends like me because: I’m the same person no matter what.

The one thing in life I’ve learned is: Never predict anything!!

The best advice my parents gave me: No matter what, always work to your best ability.

What I like best about the north state: It’s close to the ocean, forest and mountains.

My pet peeve is: Snobby people.