Yellowtop Mount Mountain man off and runn man off and running
Article by Jean Gordon. Photos Contributed.
Bob Burch and wife Ann live in their cabin high atop Yellowtop Mountain in Bostic enjoying a life of peace, quiet and tranquility. Sometimes.
Other times, Bob, 76, is off and running in competitive track and field events while Ann, 78, is on the sidelines cheering. “I’m the trophy wife,” Ann quipped. Bob agreed.
Approximately 56 years of not running, Bob is back at the sport. Currently he is the 2025 National Masters Track & Field Champion, winning gold medals in each of his three events. On February 1, Bob will join other track and field athletes at the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) where he will compete in at least three track and field events. Ann will be cheering from the stands.
He competed in track and cross country in high school and college in Virginia with his last race being in 1968. He didn’t compete or run again until 2022 when he learned of the National Senior Games (Senior Olympics). Being a husband, successful businessman, raising five children with Ann, and interestingly running their own archery business, there wasn’t much time to even think about running.
The couple bought Yellowtop Mountain property in 2008, and after two years of construction on their cabin, they began spending some time there. When they retired in 2022, they made Yellowtop Mountain home. (He was a banker and Ann owned her own insurance company.) Prior to those careers, the couple owned an archery business in Virginia where Ann created custom-made archery bows, and taught archery and hunting on the site of their business. Bob
ran the “business end” of the store and in 1992, the couple moved their business to Lexington, SC where she also taught archery technology.
“By the 2000s, the internet was taking over the retail business,” Ann said and they prepared to sell the business, but not before enjoying several deer bow hunting trips. They have trophies on the walls of their Bostic home as reminders of that fun time in their lives.
“I’m gonna brag,” Ann said. “I am the only female that has earned a deer from the island (Bulls Island, Charleston) where they went bow hunting with friends.
Having lived in Roanoke, Virginia, Bob’s hometown, and in Simpsonville SC, Ann’s hometown, and other towns in South Carolina and Virginia, the couple was introduced to Rutherford County by friends who had a home on Yellowtop as well.
“We hopped around a little,” Bob said of their lives in Virginia and South Carolina, before coming to Rutherford County to their forever home. “We’ve had a very productive, interesting life, it’s fun,” Bob said.
Although they say they’ve gotten too old to hunt, Bob said, he decided to begin running again and Ann is still his cheerleader “trophy wife.”
Bob discovered that the Polk County Senior Center offered track and field events. So he began running again and has been top in his game since he returned to the sport. (At this time, Rutherford County’s Senior Center doesn’t have track and field events). Bob joined the center, registered, competed and also qualifi for both the state and national games and won some events.
“Not having run for over 50 years and competing on my level, I did fairly well,” he said.
The primary thing about running is, “I’ve got to give God the glory for the ability and health to be able to do this. That is how I’ve done what I do,” he said. He also said the real purpose for running isn’t to win, “but to see if I can still compete,” he said.
He participated in the USATF (United States Track & Field) events and won in 2024 and in 2025.
Bob begins the 2026 Indoor Track & Field season at TIEC, host of the USATF Masters Southeast Region Indoor Championships presented by the Greenville (SC) Track Club on February 1.
Registration closes January 28 for men and women age 25 years and up, with athletes competing in five-year age divisions. Medals will be awarded to the first three
Bob’s first event is at 11am. He will compete again at 1pm and again at 2pm. He competes in the 400m, 800m and 1500m races in age group 75-79 in two sanctioning organizations: USA Track & Field Masters Division and National Senior Games Association.
The event offers all running, jumping and throwing events for men and women and there are over 3,500 spectator seats all close to the action. There is no charge for admission.
More about Bob Burch’s running: The World Masters Athletics Organization has Burch ranked number #1 in the USA in the 800m and 1500m with the fastest times in 2025. He is also ranked with the fifth fastest time in 400m in the USA. In addition, he is ranked #25 (800m), #18 (1500m) and #23 (400m) fastest in the World in those events. He was named All American for his performances in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
The National Senior Games are held every other year and USATF Nationals are annual. Without the benefit of a coach and only using internet training plans, Bob began winning regional track meets in NC and SC. In 2024 he won gold at the NC Senior Games State Finals in Durham, setting new NC state records in both the 800m and 1500m. With those wins, he qualified for the 2025 National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa where he won national titles in both the 800m and 1500m races. Also, in July 2025 he won gold in the 400m and silver in the 800m at the USATF Masters Outdoor National Championships in Huntsville, Alabama. Burch is a member of the Greenville Track Club.
Bob and Ann Burch at events.
Rutherford County Senior Center awarded
Rutherford County Senior Center was awarded “The Big Gains Award” recently at the Local Coordinators Conference! This represents the growth achieved over the past five years in the Local Senior Games Program. The senior center says “We are excited about this momentum acknowledgment as we aim for continued GROWTH! Thank you Barbara Hill, volunteers, and sponsors for your work these past five years in our Senior Games!”
Chimney Rock’s 21st Annual Groundhog Day Celebration Feb. 2
Join us for one of our favorite days of the year!
Chimney Rock’s hardworking woodchuck will take his place in the spotlight and make predictions not only about how much more winter we will have, but who will be the Super Bowl LX winner.
The public is invited to attend this family-friendly event on February 2 from 10AM to 12PM at Chimney Rock State Park. All ages will enjoy activities with
Park Naturalists and Staff, including meeting Chimney Rock’s animal ambassadors, creating groundhog-themed crafts, and more.
At 10AM, Tater the
Groundhog will make his appearance, and predictions for the year. Join us at the Animal Discovery Den to see if Tater will spot his shadow. Folklore says if he does, it’ll
be six more weeks of winter, and if not, an early spring! Groundhog themed craft making will take place in the Indoor Classroom from 1012PM.
for more information.
I ASK FOR YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT - EARLY VOTING STARTS FEBRUARY 12TH FOR THE MARCH 3RD PRIMARY.
GRADUATE OF RS CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL AND ISOTHERMAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE. MY WIFE GINA AND I HAVE BEEN ACTIVE MEMBERS OF CORNERSTONE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH SINCE 1998.
I HAVE 27 YEARS OF CONTINUED SERVICE IN THE NC JUDICIAL SYSTEM AND AS YOUR ELECTED CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT SINCE 2014. ONE OF MY MANY DUTIES IS TO SERVE AS JUDGE OF PROBATE. I HAVE PRESIDED OVER 2500 HEARINGS AND NOT EVEN ONE CASE ON APPEAL HAS EVER BEEN OVERTURNED BY A HIGHER COURT.
I HAVE FULFILLED MY CAMPAIGN PROMISES TO RUN THE CLERK’S OFFICE AS A BUSINESS AND TO SAVE TAXPAYER DOLLARS.
WHEN I FIRST TOOK OVER, THE AUDIT SCORE WAS 72% WITH NUMEROUS VIOLATIONS. WE CONTINUED TO IMPROVE WITH EACH AUDIT. NOW WE ARE RANKED WITH THE TOP IN THE STATE. I
This event is included with Park Admission. Visit chimneyrockpark.com
Tater the Groundhog, now 3 years old, was a juvenile when rescued & deemed non-releasable.
Article Provided By: Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
RACE SCHEDULE
May 24 Charlotte Motor Speedway PRIME 6:00 ______
May 31 Nashville SuperSpeedway PRIME 7:00 ______
June 7 Michigan Int. Speedway PRIME 3:00 ______
June 14 Pocono Raceway PRIME 3:00 ______
June 21 San Diego Street Race PRIME 4:00 ______
June 28 Sonoma Raceway TNT 3:30 ______
July 5 Chicagoland Speedway TNT 6:00 ______
July 12 Atlanta Motor Speedway TNT 7:00 ______
July 19 North Wilkesboro TNT 7:00 ______
July 26 Indianapolis Speedway TNT 2:00 ______
Aug. 2 OFF WEEK
Aug. 9 Iowa Speedway USA 3:30 ______
Aug. 15 Richmond Raceway USA 7:00 ______ Aug. 23 New Hampshire Speedway USA 3:00 ______ Aug. 29 Daytona Speedway NBC 7:30 ______ Sept. 6 *Darlington Raceway USA 5:00 ______ Sept. 13 *WWT St. Louis Raceway USA 3:00 ______ Sept. 19
4
Denotes Playoff Race (Dates and Times Subject to Change)
Prayer tent and winter item distribution
Chris Fite holds the poster that so many Christians agree with. Following the Lord’s orders to care for the poor, Pilgrim’s Pathway Ministries, which will benefit from the offering at Stronger Together at R.S. Central on January 25, offered a prayer tent and distribution of socks, winter clothes, household items and other free stuff, Wednesday, January 14 in the parking lot at the Dollar General in Spindale. Pilgrim’s Pathway is a halfway house for men leaving prison. Pastor Wayne Stafford, who runs the ministry, says prisoners come from all over the Southeast because it is one of the few serving men getting out of prison. The ministry joined forces with the Pilgrim’s Path Baptist Church to distribute the aid and pray for folks who asked for prayer.
MLK ceremony held
People came together on a cold Monday morning, Jan. 19 to honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Most participants gathered at the Rutherfordton Town Hall and led by MLK Committee of New Hope members carrying a banner, marched north on Main Street to the courthouse lawn for a brief ceremony. Some locked arms for the walk through town and Overcome.”
“We’re here to keep the dream alive,” echoed speakers as they prayed together and reflected on the work of Dr. King ’s including his dedication for justice for all.
Rev. Bobby King reminded the group of Dr. King’s, “I Have A Dream Speech” during his march on Washington, DC. He also talked about King’s work for the voting rights of all Americans and justice for everyone.
“He paid the ultimate sacrifice, his life,” Miller
Bobby Miller, president of the MLK Day Committee, said during the week leading up to the ceremony, community churches came together to provide meals for others, something Dr. King would do.
Miller also reflected on the aftermath of Hurricane Helene across Rutherford County, saying, “everyone laid our differences aside, we saw a need that had to be met, Martin Luther King would have approved.”
“Our eyes have seen the glory of the Lord... His truth is marching on,” he said.
Athena Whitesides, a new member of the MLK Committee, also addressed the crowd, reading from an essay she wrote, “Today I See.”
Doris Crute, program coordinator for MLK and a member of the Rutherfordton Town Council, thanked everyone for coming together for three days of MLK events that concluded with Monday’s ceremony.
“It was great, great celebrations all three days,” Crute said.
Rev. Robert Hamilton said in a closing prayer, “King’s dream is alive...Let freedom ring.” Rutherfordton Mayor Jimmy Dancy, Council members, town staff members and people from across the county joined in the annual celebration.
Harmon to share visit with Pope Leo at book signing
In May 2025, Dr. Steven Harmon, professor of historical theology at Gardner-Webb University, served as a correspondent for Good Faith Media with accreditation from the Holy See Press Office to cover the conclave that elected American Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV.
His newest book, “Encountering Pope Leo XIV: Baptist Reflections on the Beginning of a Pontificate” is rooted in his coverage of the conclave. In a program at Dover Library on January 26 at 4pm. Harmon will share some highlights from the book, engage in Q&A, and sign copies of the book, which will be available for purchase from him for $20 each. The event will be in the large conference room on the third floor.
Theresa Harmon, wife of Dr. Harmon, is a former staff member at First Baptist Church in Forest City and is now the children’s/families minister at St. John Baptist church in Charlotte.
Article Provided By: Gardner-Webb University
Article Provided By: Jean Gordon
Mollee White with her three daughters, Wilhelmina, Elmire (2 year old twin) and
Residents and friends locking arms for the walk to the courthouse lawn.
Article & Photo Provided By: Pat Jobe
Park Square Depot ground breaking
welcomed the crowd that included Town Manager Janet Mason, town officials, TDA representatives, members of BARN, the group that operates the farmers market, representatives of the construction company and other town employees. Each took turns with the shovels to signify the beginning of the construction phase. Depending on weather, supplies and other factors, it is possible the ribbon cutting for the facility could occur as early as fall of this year.
The current Farmers Market, located in the vicinity and across from POPS, is closed for the season, but reopens
Prevent a winter blood shortage: Give blood or platelets now
Donors have chance to win trip to Super Bowl LX during Blood Donor Month
The American Red Cross is teetering on a blood shortage this winter, which could lead to a disruption in lifesaving care. Donors are urged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now.
Donors with types O, A negative and B negative blood are especially needed now.
Friday, January 30, 8AM-2PM East Rutherford High School Auxiliary Gym; 331 East High Rd., Bostic
The Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are partnering in January for National Blood Donor Month to urge individuals to kick off 2026 with a blood donation. As a thank-you to donors, those
who come to give Jan. 1-25, will be entered for a chance to win an exciting Super Bowl LX giveaway. The winner and guest will get to enjoy Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, CA, access to day-of in-stadium pregame activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, 3-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 6-9, 2026), plus a $1,000 gift card for expenses. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood. org/SuperBowl.
Pro Football Champion and blood donor Saquon Barkley wants to remind donors that the best offense against a winter blood shortage is making and keeping blood
donation appointments. The blood supply can drop quickly.
“I gave blood once in college and that was the only time I had ever been asked to give, until the Red Cross reached out this fall,” said Barkley. “It was a no-brainer for me to give again. It only takes about an hour and once you realize in that short amount of time how much help it can bring – it’s a beautiful thing.”
To donate blood: download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-733-2767. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
Article Provided By: Gail Barksdale
The multifaceted benefits of aerobic exercise
impact on
and mental health. Though the temptation to be sedentary is ever-present and arguably greater than it’s ever been, getting up and moving can prolong life and make for happier, healthier days. There’s no wrong way to be physically active, and many health professionals urge people to find a physical activity they enjoy so they’re more likely to maintain a commitment to exercise. Aerobic exercise is one option to consider because it encompasses
hiking, swimming, and even walking are popular forms of aerobic exercise, which benefits the body in myriad ways.
Aerobic exercise & disease prevention
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that a fitness regimen that includes regular aerobic exercise can help people avoid potentially deadly diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that aerobic exercise, which organizations such as the American Heart Association advise combining with strength-training exercises at least twice per week, is effective at preventing disease because it helps to control or modify various risk factors for conditions like heart disease.
Aerobic exercise & bone strength
Another notable benefit of routine aerobic exercise is it helps to build stronger bones. Harvard Health notes that various studies have shown that weight-bearing exercises, including aerobic activities like walking or running, put stress on bones which stimulates the
formation of extra deposits of calcium and activates bone-forming cells. This process ultimately results in denser, stronger bones, which is a particularly notable benefit for adults over 40, a point in time when bone strength typically begins to decline at a rate of roughly 1 percent each year.
Aerobic exercise and mental health
Harvard Health notes the benefits of aerobic exercise extend beyond the physical and into the mental. That link is neurochemical in nature, as aerobic exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, which Harvard Health notes are chemicals in the brain that naturally elevate mood, contributing to feelings of both relaxation and optimism. While that’s happening, aerobic exercise also helps to reduce levels of the body’s stress hormones.
Aerobic exercise is accessible and highly beneficial. Individuals of all ages are urged to commit to routine aerobic exercise so they can reap the physical and mental health rewards such a commitment produces.
How to protect your personal data online
Long gone is the era when individuals could store their personal data almost exclusively on paper. Modern life mandates that much of society now does everything from banking to conversing to buying groceries online. That’s a lot of personal information floating around out there on the internet. Without the appropriate security measures, internet users’ personal information could be vulnerable to hackers and criminals. Though there’s no way to guarantee personal information cannot be hacked, the Federal Trade Commission offers various tips to users hoping to safeguard their personal data online.
software, internet browsers, operating systems, and even applications.
• Make sure software is up-to-date. Smartphone users undoubtedly are familiar with system updates. Such updates are designed to improve functionality on mobile phones, tablets, computers, and other devices, and they also tend to update security software to offer greater protection against hackers and other criminals. Users can open the settings function on their devices and set up automatic updates so systems are updated the moment the latest tweaks are available. System updates typically fix bugs and other issues with security
• Utilize two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that typically sends users a verification passcode via text or email. Without that passcode, it’s impossible to access an account. The passcode typically expires in a few minutes. Additional forms of two-factor authentication include a security key, which is an actual device that connects to a primary device and utilizes encryption to confirm the key is associated with the account that is trying to be accessed, and an authenticator app, which generates a verification password not unlike the passcode sent via more traditional two-factor authentication.
• Pick strong and unique passwords and routinely change
them. Passwords are a significant part of modern life. Whether you’re trying to access your smartphone in the morning or watch a television show at night or log into a bank account during a midday break from work, you’re liable to need a password to do each of those things. Passwords can be hard to remember, and that may encourage some users to employ the same ones for various accounts. But that makes user data particularly vulnerable to hackers, so it’s best to pick a strong and unique password for each account and routinely reset all passwords. A simple password like “User1234” is easily decoded, as is one that’s used for years on end across multiple accounts. Thirdparty password managers can help users overcome the inconvenience of remembering multiple passwords. All that’s necessary to remember when employing such functions is the password to access the password manager, which will then autopopulate the password for a given app or site.
Personal data is more vulnerable than ever. However, internet users can employ various strategies to safeguard their personal information online.
Scholarships available for future environmental leaders
Keep Rutherford County Beautiful (KRCB), an environmental and beautification nonprofit organization and affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, announces the opening of the 2026 Green Scholarship. This year, the scholarship aims to support graduating seniors demonstrating exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The Green Scholarship program, now in its sixth year, aims to support aspiring environmental leaders in pursing higher education and empower them to drive positive change in their communities. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, KRCB continues to invest in the future of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The Green Scholarship initiative is funded by local businesses and citizens to support students seeking to influence a greener future. Applicants’ future degrees could include sustainable agriculture, renewable
energy, environmental science, engineering, law, waste management, or anything related to environmental stewardship.
In 2025, a Rutherford County senior received an award through the Green Scholarship program. Aiden Wheeler, now pursuing Engineering with a minor in Environmental Studies at NC State University, was awarded the $1,200 Green Scholarship. Aiden, of Rutherfordton is a previous senior at Rutherford Early College High School (REaCH) who spearheaded the school’s involvement in the annual Litter Bowl and motivated REaCH to formally adopt a segment of Piney Ridge Road to continually keep the community clean. The scholarship committee was thrilled to support Aiden’s future endeavors in environmental conservation.
This scholarship awards $1,200 and $500 to two eligible high school seniors in Rutherford County. The application window is open now and closes on April 13. For more information about the Green Scholarship, application details, and submission guidelines, visit www.keeprcncbeautiful.org/ scholarship. Applicants may contact KRCB at allie@rutherfordoutdoor.org or 828-289-3260
Keep Rutherford County Beautiful began as an Earth Day litter pickup and has transformed into a movement throughout Rutherford County, North Carolina. Neighbors, industry leaders, business owners, schools and municipalities have joined forces to change the way we define community, leading programs and initiatives to propel Rutherford County’s beautification forward. As of 2023, KRCB became an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, the nation’s largest community improvement organization. This milestone is a testament to the work the organization has put in since 2017 and the progress they have made. Together, we are taking action to love where we live, work and play.
For more information about KRCB, visit www.KeepRCNCBeautiful.org or email KeepRCNCBeautiful@RutherfordCountyNC.
Tommy
Hicks loved to say “yes!” to life
by Pat Jobe
When Tommy Hicks sold advertising over the telephone, he would say “yes! after closing a deal. He got to say it a lot.
When his favorite football or basketball team scored or won a game, he would say “yes!”
When flirting with a dear object of his affection over the telephone, he could also be heard to exclaim “yes!” as if whatever encouragement she had given him meant more to him than gold or silver.
Maybe his brand of unbridled enthusiasm came to him naturally, but please consider it anyway. You might learn something.
Life has enough of that other word that has one less letter. Maybe if we said “yes!” more often, we would hear more of it coming back. And wouldn’t that be
Jim Dandy?
Once sitting in the back of the room at a fancy dinner at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, I heard a speaker talking about a guest of honor by pointing out that she was someone who lots of times said “yes!” He’d tell a quick story about her and then add that she said “yes!” He’d tell another quick story about her and then add that she said “yes!” Finally after he had done it another two or three times, I couldn’t stand it, and I hollered “yes!” back at him. It embarrassed the fire out of my wife, but I couldn’t help it. It was just so wonderful. One or two people looked at me like I was from another planet.
There are times when I feel like I am from another planet. One of my daughters once took the saucer from under her coffee cup and held it up in the air as though it were a flying saucer. She asked, “Does this make you homesick, Daddy?”
Well, kinda.
It feels to me like fixing most of what’s wrong in the world would be pretty simple. We could start by saying “yes!” when things are hard and confusing, when somebody is hurting and needs our help. We could say “yes!” to things we
have in common rather than things that separate us. We could spend more time concentrating “yes!” on all things in our lives and leave that other word out in the rain when it mostly belongs. Hicks, who passed in September of 2017, and I agreed about a lot of things. His forest fire devotion to sports makes my interest in sports look like a Bic lighter. We loved a lot of the same people, many of whom were involved in his care as he lived the last 40 years of his life in a wheelchair. He never let his wheelchair or his diagnosis of muscular dystrophy define him. He was once asked by an usher at the Charlotte Coliseum if he needed the handicapped section. He said, “No. I need the wheelchair section. I am not handicapped.”
His humor was quick, sudden and could put the rest of us in our places. His wisdom cut across all prejudices making us understand what was important in life and how so much of what other people take seriously is a joke. As outrageous and unconventional as he could so often be, the word we heard most often from him was “yes!” Contact Pat Jobe at patjobe13@gmail.com.
Aiming Outdoorsmen Toward Christ
An Opportunity to Support North Carolina’s Endangered and Nongame Wildlife
State taxpayers receiving a refund can simply check a box to fund more conservation efforts
By Gary Miller
the contribution amount when prompted to “N.C. Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund.”
The bass fishing tournaments are getting ready to start with a vengeance. Once they begin, each weekend will offer another opportunity to fish for money. All bass tournaments have pretty much the same rules; two fishermen; one boat; the five biggest fish by weight, win. Some men will literally come to blows in pursuing first prize. And first prize can be worth lots of money even in the smaller tournaments. As I have said before these types of events touch both the competitive and outdoorsy side of men. It’s fun enough to fish but add in beating somebody in the process and winning cash to do it makes it an addictive potion. Most of the time, each team will spend the first few hours on the water just trying to catch any size of fish. The immediate goal is to get five fish in the boat. After (or if) that is accomplished, the goal changes. Now it’s time to cull the smaller ones that are already in the live well for bigger replacements. Remember, it’s the five heaviest fish. Sometimes the technique changes just for the purpose of perhaps catching less fish but bigger ones. Again, the lesser ones get tossed back in when a better quality one is caught. And there are occasions when some good fish are thrown back because a great one is caught. Our life is somewhat like these bass tournaments. We know we only have room for so many things in our life as well. Each one of these can be of little or great importance. Our life’s pursuit and God’s desire for us is to constantly add something that has a greater value than what we already have. What we must remember, however, is sometimes we must get rid of something that is of great value to add something else that is priceless. This decision always comes with a mixed sense of both loss and excitement. As we mature, we understand it just has to be that way. It’s just like that exercise shirt that you once wore that said, “No Pain; No Gain.” This is so true. But never forget, what you give up now will not seem so great a sacrifice when you get to the weigh-in. These types of sacrifices will always put you in the real money.
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) invites those filing a 2025 North Carolina state tax return to donate all or a portion of their refund to the N.C. Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund. Contributions will support research and conservation management projects for the state’s most vulnerable wildlife populations.
“Funds donated using the tax-checkoff program amplify those provided by a federal grant for species of greatest conservation need (SGCN), including listed species in North Carolina,” said Dr. Sara Schweitzer, assistant chief of NCWRC’s Wildlife Management Division. “A $100 donation is matched by $186 of grant funding—truly boosting wildlife conservation in North Carolina. Our dedicated and
passionate biologists, agency partners and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure wildlife and their habitats will persist into the future for North Carolinians to enjoy.
In western North Carolina especially, donations will help us address the immense impacts of Hurricane Helene on species such as the Eastern hellbender, bog turtle, gray bat, Carolina Northern flying squirrel and several high-elevation migratory birds.” These funds support survey and monitoring efforts for rare species such as the bog turtle, Hickory Nut Gorge green salamander, Eastern hellbender, river frog, diamondback terrapin and Northern gray treefrog. These data are used to target habitat restoration projects, especially needed in areas impacted by Hurricane
Helene in the west and areas impacted by drought in the Sandhills. More information on these and other projects supported by the tax checkoff program is found in quarterly reports from NCWRC’s Wildlife Diversity Program.
Taxpayers can easily participate by checking Line 30 on their North Carolina state income tax form; or, if filing through an online tax preparation software, enter
For those wishing to donate and do not expect a state tax refund, direct donations may be made online to support nongame wildlife through the N.C. Wildlife Diversity Endowment Fund by visiting https://www. ncwildlife.gov/donate.
Article by: ncwildlife.org.
RHP Accepting Applications for Urgently Needed Home Repairs
Rutherford Housing Partnership is continuing to accept applications for urgently needed home repairs through URP26 funding provided by the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency.
If you or someone you know is living in a home with critical repair needs, help may be available.
All applications are reviewed to determine eligibility based on program guidelines and available funding.
These repairs can make a real difference in safety, accessibility, and quality of life for homeowners in our community. Please don’t wait. Reach out now and take the first step toward a safer home.
Anyone needing help is encouraged to apply for assistance.
You may qualify if anyone in your household meets one or more of the following:
• Age 62 or older
• Disabled individual
• Veteran
We will talk about all this on Tuesday morning. Get the Zoom link at outdoortruths.org
Gary Miller gary@outdoortruths.org
dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Stay updated on Outdoor Truths each week by subscribing at Outdoortruths.org
Fishing Report
The Rutherford County Carolina Bass Club fished Lake Norman Saturday, January 17. The club had 24
• Single-parent household with at least one child in residence
• Household size larger than 5
• Lead hazards in the home with children under age 6 (Home must be owner occupied)
Eligible Repairs May Include:
Does your household income look like this?
Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 23 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game
GARY MILLER
Gardner-Webb students advance clinical training at MD Anderson
For the sixth year in a row, Physician Assistant (PA) students from GardnerWebb University (GWU) have been selected for clinical rotations at one of the world’s most respected providers of cancer patient care. From the PA Class of 2026, Tanner Hendricks, Confidence Paul, Baylee Short of Bostic, and Diana Welliver have been invited to train at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. This research-driven facility has affiliation agreements with over 200 PA schools across the country. Applicants are evaluated in the areas of academic excellence, passion for oncology, volunteerism, interest in working at MD Anderson, and interest in postgraduate training.
GWU Assistant Professor
LaDonna Clark, director of Clinical Education for the Department of PA Studies, noted that MD Anderson offers an exceptional learning environment. “The institution’s commitment to education allows students to learn alongside nationallyrecognized clinicians while developing specialized clinical skills in oncology,” she affirmed. “This immersive experience not only enhances clinical competence but has also led to successful employment opportunities for many of our graduates following completion of their rotations.”
GWU PA students complete a total of nine supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPEs). To provide high-quality training opportunities for
Bostic resident among students selected
students, Clark collaborates with a team that includes Stephanie Fraccola, clinical scheduling manager; Missy Ware, clinical administrative coordinator; and Patrick Williford, clinical/didactic faculty. Each rotation is five weeks in duration. Seven of these are considered core rotations: women’s medicine, emergency medicine, internal medicine, surgical medicine, behavioral medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. Additionally, they complete one elective rotation and one underserved medicine rotation.
The four students selected to attend MD Anderson have various reasons for applying to the program. Short, of Bostic, has been assigned to the MD Anderson Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular
Therapy Center. She obtained her bachelor’s in exercise science from Gardner-Webb in 2022 and applied for the PA program because of her rewarding undergraduate experience.
“Seeing my patients go through oncology experiences, as well as my own life experiences with cancer, fuels my desire to contribute to the field of oncology,” Short said. “My
aunt
away when I was younger with esophageal cancer, and my grandpa passed away in 2023 from multiple myeloma.”
NC Private Roads and Bridges Reimbursement Program: Deadline February 28
The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) assists property owners across western North Carolina in repairing damages from Helene. The interest form
roads and bridges closed. However, if you incurred costs to repair or replace your private road, bridge, culvert, or pipe, and wish to seek partial reimbursement, complete the NC Private Road
arcgis.com/share/9ea30a5e3 c724508a74007d2cf3a8613) provided by North Carolina Emergency Management. Property owners have until February 28 to apply for reimbursements through the NC-PRB program for private road and bridge repairs. Part of a $25 million appropriation from the NC General Assembly, reimbursements are permitted to cover up to 50 percent of a project’s total cost.
RHP receives grant
Rutherford Housing Partnership (RHP) has been selected to receive a grant from Leadership Rutherford and the Leadership Rutherford Class of 2026.
Rutherford Weekly Sudoku
“We are honored by their confidence in our work and truly appreciate the recognition of the impact our project has on Rutherford County. This support will help us continue serving our community and making a meaningful difference for local families,” stated RHP. These funds will directly assist volunteers and help provide urgently needed home repairs for neighbors right here in the community during the MDCC Day of Caring – Spring 2026. The Leadership Rutherford Class of 2026 will also be volunteering alongside
small town friendly BIG time results
passed
Article Provided By: Gardner Webb University
PA students selected for a highly-competitive clinical rotation at MD Anderson Cancer Center (left to right): Tanner Hendricks, Confidence Paul, Diana Welliver, and Baylee Short.
RHP for this impactful day of service. Article Provided By: Rutherford Housing Partnership
JANUARY
January 22
Free Community Lunch & Learn
Blood Drive
January 30
Through February 14
Rutherfordton Little League Sign-
ONGOING EVENTS
Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday
Forest City Vip Lions Club
When: 2nd & 4th Tuesday; 6:30pm
Where: Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church; 397 Mt. Pleasant Church Rd., Forest City
More Info: Seeking volunteers & new members for new Lions Club branch, we serve our community.
Every 2nd Tuesday
Lake Lure Lions Club
When: 2nd Tuesdays 6pm
Where: La Strada Restaurant; 2693 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure
More Info: If you’re interested and would like to attend a club meeting, contact club president John Kobland at jkobland@gmail.com.
Every Tuesday
Open Arms Substance Abuse
When: Tuesdays 6-7pm
Where: Highland Apartments Activity Center; 171 Butler Rd., Forest City
More Info: For those with substance abuse, parents or guardians of kids with substance abuse addictions. 828-305-1280.
First Tuesday Rutherford Dementia Support Group
When: First Tuesday; 5-6pm
Where: First United Methodist Church Forest City Fellowship Hall; 341 E. Main St., Forest City More Info: Discuss topics related to Dementia. 828-395-0083.
First Tuesday Cancer Support Group
When: First Tuesday; 5-6:30pm Where: Rutherford County Senior Center
More Info: For cancer patients & survivors; informative topics, friendship and refreshments. RSVP 828-245-4596, option 1.
Third Tuesday Rutherfordton Kiwanis Club
Meeting When: 3rd Tuesday; 6pm Where: Rutherford Regional Medical Center, 288 S Ridgecrest Ave, Rutherfordton
More Info: Come join us and volunteer to serve your community.
Rutherford Beekeepers Monthly Club Meeting When: Third Tuesday; 6pm Where: Cooperative Extension Center; 193 Callahan-Koon Rd., beside Senior Center
More Info: Open to anyone interested in beekeeping.
Fourth Tuesday Rutherford County Woodworkers Club When: Every Fourth Tuesday Where: Rutherford County Annex, Rutherfordton
More Info: 919-696-6064.
Second Thursday Coffee for Veterans When: Second Thursday of the month at 10am Where: Fairfield Mountains Chapel; 1384 Buffalo Creek Rd., Lake Lure
More Info: All veterans welcome for free coffee, refreshments, and camaraderie.
Thursdays
BINGO – Disable American Veterans Chapter 25
When: Thursdays 7-10pm Where: Old Green Hill School; 2501 US 64/74A Hwy, Rutherfordton
More Info: Doors open 5:30pm. Early Bird 7pm; Regular Program 7:30pm
More Info: FREE community lunch and learn with Dr. Dietrich Kayser, Orthopedic Surgeon, informative discussion on injury prevention and joint health, sharing expert tips to help you stay active and moving. Great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and enjoy a complimentary lunch. Registration required. Register at MyRutherfordRegional.com/events or call 828-286-5068.
January 25
Stronger Together
When: January 25; 11am
Where: R.S. Central High School; 641 US Hwy 221, Rutherfordton
More Info: Proceeds benefit Pilgrim’s Pathway Ministries, a halfway house for men leaving prison.
February 1
Grief Support Group
When: February 1; 3:15-4pm
Where: Bill’s Creek Community Center; 198 Club House Rd., Lake Lure
More Info: Free. RSVP by Jan. 30 to 828-351-4427 or ChelseaEtheridgeLPC@gmail.com.
Types of loss we support: loss of a loved one, loss of a pet, loss of a job, role or major life transition.
February 3
Harris High Alumni & Friends
Breakfast
When: February 3; 8:30am
Where: Denny’s; 1493 US Hwy 74-A Bypass, Spindale
More Info: RSVP to Joan @ 828 245 2658 by February 1.
When: January 30; 8am-2pm
Where: East Rutherford High School
Auxiliary Gym; 331 East High Rd., Bostic
More Info: Visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-733-2767.
January 31
Blue Ridge Parkway Ice Hike
When: January 31; 8:30am
Where: Meet at Rutherford Outdoor Coalition; 115 N. Oak St., Spindale
More Info: Hike 2 miles on Case Camp Ridge trail. View ice formations on the rock walls lining the road and enjoy stunning views the parkway then hike to Seniard Ridge trail & view 3 waterfalls. 10 mile total hike. Bring water, food, warm layers. Trekking poles recommended. Register at: https:// forms.gle/zXR99X9tCU4feFQC9C by Jan. 29. Questions? Jerry at jerry@ rutherfordoutdoor.org.
DEADLINE FOR COMMUNITY CALENDAR: MONDAYS AT 10AM
February 13
Night To Shine; Tim Tebow
Foundation Enchanted Evening
When: February 13
Where: Spencer Baptist Church; 187 N. Oak St., Spindale
More Info: Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. The Foundation has a great passion for people with special needs, and in 2014 the Foundation launched Night to Shine with a simple vision…work with churches around the world to provide an incredible prom experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and above. Guests will be welcomed into the event on a red carpet and will be treated like royalty for the entire evening. Registration required: https:// www.spencerbaptist.com/a-night-toshine
February 15
Black History program
When: February 15; 2:30pm
Where: Piney Ridge CME Church; 4421 Hudlow Rd., Union Mills
February 17
Kinderpalooza
When: February 17; 4-6:30pm
Where: Isothermal Community College Foundation; 286 ICC Loop Rd., Spindale
More Info: A fun-filled event designed to help our youngest learners (and their families!) get excited and prepared for school. Meet kindergarten teachers, Learn about programs and opportunities, Ride a real school bus & more. Families interested in RCS preschool programs are welcome to attend and learn more about early learning opportunities as well!
Ups
More Info: Online Sign-ups through Feb. 14 (rutherfordtonlittleleague. org). In person sign-up: Feb. 1, 1-4pm Woodrow Jones Bldg.; 146 Main St., Rutherfordton.
Through January Free Line Dancing, Dance Tone, Pilates and Yoga Classes
When: Through January; days & times vary
Where: Bill’s Creek Community Center; 198 Club House Rd., Lake Lure
More Info: billscreekcommunitycenter. com
Going On Now
Rutherford Baseball Association
Sign Ups
Rutherford Baseball Association (RBA) is an adult baseball league in Rutherford County. If you’ve been itching to get on the field, compete, have some fun, now is your chance! Visit Rutherford Baseball Association Facebook for details.
February 21
Goin’ Across the Mountain Live
When: February 21; 7:30pm
Where: The Foundation Performing Arts Center on the campus of Isothermal Community College; 286 ICC Loop Rd., Spindale
More Info: www.foundationshows. org. Featuring Balsam Range with the Jacktown Ramblers.
February 22
Drive-Thru Food Giveaway
When: February 22; 12-3pm
Where: Grahamtown Community Center; 129 First St., Forest City
More Info: Register online or in person.
March 16-21
Sustain Me Living & Wellness Fair
When: March 16-21; 8am-7pm
Where: Tryon Equestrian Center; 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring
More Info: A six-day gathering focused on practical natural health, nutrition, and sustainable living. 6 full days of learning, community, and hands-on natural wellness. Barbara O’Neill, keynote speaker. Daily sessions on natural healing, lifestyle, and prevention. shalomtemplejourney. org
Gold retires as executive director for PCF
Parton named to take the helm
The Partnership for Children of the Foothills announces the retirement of longtime Executive Director Barry Gold, who is concluding an extraordinary 26-year tenure marked by transformational growth, regional collaboration, and lasting impact for children and families across Rutherford, Polk, and
Dickenson, Chair of the Partnership for Children of the Foothills Board of Directors. “His vision, dedication, and collaborative spirit have shaped who we are today and positioned us well for the future.”
As the Partnership celebrates Gold’s legacy, it also looks ahead with confidence, welcoming Vanessa Parton as its new Executive Director.
Under Gold’s leadership, the Partnership evolved into a cornerstone organization for early childhood development in the region. During his tenure, he successfully guided the agency and board through two mergers with neighboring Partnerships for Children in McDowell and Polk counties, strengthening services and expanding the network across a threecounty area.
Gold also played a pivotal role in securing and expanding critical resources for families. He wrote or cowrote more than $7 million in grant funding, supporting initiatives such as the NurseFamily Partnership Program, dental care services for low-income children, an 18-county Regional Resilience Initiative, and emergency funding to assist local licensed child care facilities during times of crisis—including the COVID-19 pandemic and damage caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024.
Parton brings more than two decades of experience in child-focused service provision, education, and community partnership development. Prior to her new role, she served as Director of the Child Advocacy Center at Family Resources of Rutherford County, where she managed the Center’s operations while performing the critical role of interviewing alleged child abuse victims. Parton maintained a leadership role on Rutherford County’s multidisciplinary team, strengthened community collaborations, and championed services that support children’s safety, well-being, and long-term success.
potential. She believes that strong communities are built through compassion, support and meaningful connections, and she strives to contribute in ways that truly make a difference.
“I am honored to follow in Barry Gold’s footsteps and grateful for the strong foundation he built at the Partnership for Children of the Foothills, “ said Parton. “I plan to honor his legacy by encouraging growth, providing support, and advocating for children and families, knowing that when families are strengthened, children are empowered to succeed with confidence. I am excited to work alongside our board, staff and community partners to continue and grow this important work.”
Gold expressed confidence in the organization’s future leadership, noting that the Partnership is wellpositioned to continue advancing its mission of ensuring children are healthy, safe, and ready to succeed.
A resident of Rutherford County since 2003, Parton cares deeply about the community and is passionate about helping children reach their full
The Partnership for Children of the Foothills remains committed to building strong early childhood systems that support families and promote healthy child development throughout the region.
About Partnership for Children of the Foothills: With support from NC Smart Start Initiative, Partnership for Children of the Foothills provides programs for children ages 0-5 and their families in the areas of Childcare/Education and Family Support. The Partnership builds and sustains relationships with community agencies and service providers, offering creative and unique programs for preschool children and their families, licensed childcare centers and family child care. For more information, visit: PFCFoothills. org
Article Provided By: Partnership for Children of the Foothills
Rutherfordton Elementary: Quarter 2 Honor Roll
Fifth Grade A Honor Roll
Cyrus Appling, Jamison Bradley, Adam Bradshaw, Nevaeh Dobbins, Josephine Gilbert, Neithan Gutierrez Buchelli, Dailyn Jimerson, Jasper Lewis, Ava McClung, Mattie Medlin, Emily Rosa, Tyler Scoggins, Keenan Stanley, Allyson Tavares, Ainsley Watson Fourth Grade A Honor Roll
Loki Bunn, Kendall Gordon, Donald Linker, Kason Owens, Austin Pauley, Josiah Rodriguez, Lincoln Scarlett, Autumn Shaffer, Harley Shehan, Cooper Steiner, Giancarlo Tamayo, Andre Tamayo, Braylee Watkins, Deacon Withrow
Third Grade A Honor Roll
Kylee Daves, Elena Fillers, Yelitza Perez-Romero, Liliani Rogers
Fifth Grade B Honor Roll Brinley Bailey, Kamryn Carson, Ana ChavezCelaya, Waylon Farris,
One of Gold’s most celebrated achievements was the dramatic expansion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library across the Partnership’s service area. Through this effort, the Partnership distributed more than 40,000 books each year to preschool-aged children in Rutherford, Polk, and McDowell counties, helping foster early literacy and a love of reading during children’s most formative years.
“Barry’s leadership has left an indelible mark on this organization and on generations of children and families,” said Jen Pace-
Second grade: Leana Mottern, Oliver Wilson, Eleanor Street, Marek Rollins, Atticus Timol, Ezra Manziana, Patrick McNamara, Blakely Hanlon
Third grade: Gracie Montandon, William Lawrence, Saoirse McNamara, Jordan McDowell, Roman Easley, Adelyn O’Brien, Ella Northrup, Wyatt Duerr, Brianna Chapman
12th grade: Nina Leighty Ysabella Staley, Abigail Sais, Jackson Bell Braylon Hornbeck, Judson Bragdon, Paige Harper, Reinier Kruseman, Samuel Terry, Kristen Drummond, Jayla Taylor.
LLCA second quarter A/B honor roll
Second grade: June Corpening, Kara Halterman, Hein Cash, Liam Boswell, Wallace
Third grade: Stella Nowell, Sydney Bailey, Marlowe Kulak, Vincent Bourrie, Lillian Braddy, Nolan Serrano, Ava Bassin, Meredith Powell, Charlee Prayton, Skylar Oliver
Fourth grade: Silvana Van Eron,Mason Wentworth, Roselee Canada, Eliza Marek, Nola Adams, Carson Irving, Eleanor Deist, Alexandra Gabler, McKinley Keever, Dakota Spencer, Charles Wingo, Lenox Alexander, Sawyer Goldston, Harrison Hiatt
11th grade: Cameron Bohannon, Elijach Hill-Moore, Lily Reel, Bradt Humphrey, Ryan McKee, Riley Gallagher, Serenity Wells, Emily Ives, Jordan Richardson, Genesis Ruckman,Jolie Long
12th grade: Christopher Hansford, Nola Shade, Leland Villaverde, Madalyn Jones
Article Provided By: Michael Smith
Vanessa Parton
parts unknown, wear and
On the opposite end of the spectrum, individuals may not realize that failing to drive their vehicles
regularly also can affect performance. Here’s a closer look at what can happen when vehicles sit idle for lengthy periods of time.
• Battery loses its charge. The battery in a vehicle is still being used even if the car isn’t running. Batteries power various components in a car, such as the vehicle computer, phone chargers and more. If the engine does not turn over and help to recharge the battery, the battery will eventually die. People who drive infrequently may want to consider a trickle charger that’s plugged in during periods of non-use.
also may seep into brake lines, causing issues with pressurization of brake fluid. Each of these factors adds up to brakes that do not work properly — which is a big safety hazard.
• Formation of tire flat spots. When tires are not used frequently, the weight of
the car can continually put pressure on the same parts of the tires, leading to flat spots. Tires also can lose pressure if they sit too long.
• Oil and other fluids may lose efficacy. Various fluids can go stale in a vehicle if it isn’t regularly driven.
Gasoline also may develop
condensation, which can reduce efficiency and performance. Taking short trips helps avoid this issue. Infrequent driving can cause damage to a car or truck. But many potential issues can be avoided by driving vehicles more often.
• Tire rot can set in. Dry tire rot is deterioration that sets into the rubber. The material dries out and becomes brittle, causing splits and cracks to form. Driving with tire rot can cause tires to deflate.
• Rust and corrosion can occur. There is still plenty of metal in modern vehicles.
A vehicle that has been exposed to salt or rain or one that is stored in a moist climate can be susceptible to undercarriage or engine rust. This may cause damage that’s not easily repaired.
• Damage from sap or droppings. A vehicle parked in one location for a long time could be a target for bird droppings, fallen berries, sap, and other substances that are potentially harmful to the paint job. Leaving the car or truck out in the sun also means UV rays can cause clear coat over the paint to oxidize and begin to fail, which can produce blotchy or peeling spots.
• Poor brake performance. When vehicles are left to sit, corrosion could build up on the rotors and the brake pads may become less flexible. Moisture
CHOCOLATE CRUMBLE PIE
Pie Dough
Scant 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1⁄4 cup superfine sugar
1 egg yolk
1 to 2 teaspoons cold water
Filling
2⁄3 cup heavy cream
2⁄3 cup milk
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 eggs
Crumble Topping
1⁄2 cup packed brown sugar
3⁄4 cup toasted pecans
4 ounces semisweet chocolate
3 ounces amaretti cookies
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa
To make pie dough, sift flour and baking powder into a large bowl, add butter, stir in sugar, add egg and a little water to bring the dough together. Turn the dough out, knead briefly. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and let chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375F. Roll out pie dough and use to line a 9’’ loose-button tart pan. Prick pastry shell with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with dried beans or baking beans. Bake 15 minutes. Remove from oven and take out paper and beans. Reduce oven temperature to 350F.
To make the filling, bring cream and milk to a boil in a saucepan, immediately remove from heat, add chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. Beat eggs and add to
LEMON CORNMEAL COBBLER
3 tablespoons boiling water
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
5 cups fresh blueberries
1⁄2 cup plus 1⁄3 cup sugar, divided
3 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1⁄2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel, divided 1⁄2 cup plain unsweetened soymilk or almond milk
2⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
1⁄4 cup fine-ground cornmeal
1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 cup coconut oil, melted
Preheat oven to 375F. Spray 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Combine boiling water and flaxseed in small bowl. Let stand until cool. Combine blueberries, 1⁄3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, cornstarch, and 1⁄2 tablespoon lemon peel in large bowl; toss to coat. Spoon into prepared pan. Combine soymilk and remaining 2 tablespoons lemon juice in small bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Combine flour, cornmeal, remaining 1⁄2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon peel, baking powder and salt in medium bowl; mix well. Add soymilk mixture, coconut oil and flaxseed mixture; stir until just combined. Drop topping by 2 tablespoons into mounds over blueberry mixture. Bake 40 to 45 minutes, until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown. Let stand 30 minutes.
Deadline Extended to January 31 Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program
January 31 is the deadline for western North Carolina homeowners to apply for assistance through the Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program for help with repairing, reconstructing, or replacing homes damaged by Hurricane Helene.
Since the program launched in June, it has received more than 7,300 applications. Projects have already been completed in Buncombe, Henderson, McDowell, and Polk counties with many more under construction and in the pipeline.
Renew NC is North Carolina’s long-term disaster recovery effort, committed to rebuilding impacted communities stronger so they are more resilient to future storms.
The Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program is a centralized housing rehabilitation, reconstruction or replacement program that will prioritize low-to-
moderate income families with seniors aged 62 and older, children, and/ or disabled household members impacted by Hurricane Helene in the following 29 counties: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston,
Renew NC is a program through the North Carolina Department of Commerce
Division of Community Revitalization, funded by a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBGDR) grant.
For more information visit https://renewnc.org.
Provided By: GROW NC.
January 23
What: Free Hot Dog Meal
When: January 23; meal distribution begins at 12 noon
Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale
January 24
What: Golden Valley Crusaders
When: January 24; 6pm
Where: Cedar Grove Fellowship Church; 160 Toney Rd., Bostic
More Info: Everyone welcome.
What: Saturday Night aLive
When: January 24; 6:30pm
Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale
More Info: Food and trivia.
January 25
What: Stronger Together
When: January 25; 11am
Where: R.S. Central High School; 641 US Hwy 221, Rutherfordton
More Info: Proceeds benefit Pilgrim’s Pathway Ministries-halfway house for men leaving prison.
What: Singing group “Simple Faith”
When: January 25; 6pm
Where: Bostic Missionary Methodist Church; 145 Joe Bostic Rd., Bostic More Info: Everyone welcome.
January 31
What: 5th Saturday Youth Meeting
When: January 31; 4pm
Where: Pilgrims Way Baptist Church; 485 Hamilton Rd., Rutherfordton
More Info: Preaching- Pastor Bryan Henn & Bro. Dylan Beaty. Combined youth choir. All ages welcome! Meal provided following service. Pastor Wayne Stafford 828-429-7616
February 15
What: Black History program
When: February 15; 2:30pm
Where: Piney Ridge CME Church; 4421 Hudlow Rd., Union Mills
February 21
What: Food Give Away
When: February 21; 8-10am
Where: Caroleen Congregational Holiness Church; 112 Walker Store Rd., Ellenboro
More Info: Come to the second parking lot and we’ll bring a box out to your car.
Ongoing Church Programs
Avondale United Methodist Church
Sun: 9:45am. 2596 US Hwy. 221-A, Avondale. PO Box 266, Henrietta. avondaleumc4@gmail.com
Mount Lebanon Baptist Church 801 Mount Lebanon Church Rd., Bostic.
Piedmont Baptist Church 1050 Maple Creek Rd., Rutherfordton. Friendly atmosphere, no dress code, no politics. 828-447-9594.
Prospect Baptist Church Sun: 9:45AM Sunday School, Worship: 11AM & 6PM. 2610 Prospect Church Rd,, Mooresboro.
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church
Sunday School 10-11am, Worship 11am-12pm, Wed: 7-8pm.
Lebanon Methodist Church 11am Service. A Global Methodist Congregation. 2330 Big Level Rd., Mill Spring. 828-625-2656.
Forest City Church of God Sun: 11am, Wed: 7pm. 238 Washington St., Forest City.
Cane Creek Baptist Church
Sunday School 9am. Worship 10am. Wed: 6:30pm. 151 Cane Creek Mountain Rd., Union Mills. 828-286-2487.
First United Methodist Church 9am Sunday. 264 N. Main St., Rutherfordton. 828-287-3704
Camp Creek Baptist Church Sunday School 10am. Worship 11am. Wed: 6:30pm. 1801 Camp Creek Rd., Union Mills. 828-288-1554
Chase Baptist Church GPS; Grieving Parents Support Group. Helping people find their way after the loss of a child. Appt: 828-305-3619.
Spindale United Methodist Church 10am Bible Study, 11am Worship. 185 Mill St., Spindale, 828-286-2281. 2nd & 4th Fri- Free Hotdog meal. 3rd Wed- Free Community meal.
Saving Grace Church Sun: 11am. Withrow Rd., Forest City.
Cedar Grove Fellowship Church
Sunday worship 9:30am. Sunday School 10:30am. 160 Toney Rd., Bostic
St. Francis Episcopal Church Sun: 8:30am Adult Sunday School. 9:30am Worship Holy Eucharist. 408 N. Main St., Rutherfordton
The Church of the Exceptional Sun: 11am. Transportation available. 828657-5628
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By: Jean Gordon
A column written recently by
Our State magazine editor
Elizabeth Hudson brought back lots of memories of Mama cooking for our
family. I suppose a lot of mothers cooked meals for their families that still remain cherished memories. I know I have many memories around our supper table.
Mama was an excellent cook and there was always a home cooked meal on the table each evening, even after she had worked an 8 or 9 hour job.
Among my favorite nights was meatloaf evening. She made the best meatloaf ever and served it with mashed potatoes, small sweet peas and biscuits.
Mama’s brown-bottom
McKnight shares work of Rutherford Co-op across the county
biscuits were the best thing I’d ever eaten, it seemed to me. There were times she’d call me in the afternoon and tell me she had some brown bottom biscuits, if I wanted to come by. I lived in Rutherfordton and my parents lived in Forest City. But I was in the habit of “coming by” especially for brown bottom biscuits.
There were times, too, when she’d call the newsroom and tell me she had leftovers if I wanted to “come by.” Once I asked her what the leftovers were and she quickly responded, “Does it matter?” No, I’d tell her and I’d go by for leftovers.
Mama’s salmon patties were also the best and were served with her concoction of hot potato salad and peas. That was also a favorite meal.
local food system by connecting small and local farmers with the broader community. The Rutherford Co-op serves as a community-centered food hub, supporting sustainable agriculture, fair access to fresh local food, and meaningful relationships between growers and consumers. He also shared details about their mission, partner farms, community programs, and ways to get involved. To learn more visit rutherfordcoop.com.
The club’s January charity was items for The Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue. The February charity will be to collect items for The Welcome Table. Canned goods, small dessert plates and paper towels are needed. The club will meet February 9 at 10am at the Rutherfordton Clubhouse.
Article Provided By: Rutherfordton Garden Club
RUTHERFORD WEEKLY
157 West Main Street, Forest City, NC 28043
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Distribution: Tommy Sims • Greg Grimes
a pleasure to get an invite from her.
We didn’t always have meat for supper, especially during gardening season when we’d have three or four fresh vegetables with biscuits. We’d have cream corn, fresh tomatoes, fried okra and peppers all from the garden.
Hudson said her mom made country-style steak on Saturday nights and fried chicken on Sunday. We didn’t do country-style steak on a regular basis, that was a treat, but fried chicken on Sunday was as certain as anything. No one could fry chicken like Mama and her gravy was the absolute best. With that meal we’d have green beans, slaw and mashed potatoes. I don’t know how she did it, really.
counted them. Otherwise, someone like me might get too many. We had our share of greens with lots of vinegar, crowder peas, fried potatoes and onions, beet pickles and cornbread.
Hudson talked about her mom’s Thanksgiving meal and the preparation. Most of our lives, we had Thanksgiving meals at our own home. I can still see Mama tasting the dressing as she mixed it, and then with a little jar of seasoning and herbs she’d shake a few more times. After my sisters and I left home, I’d go early on Thanksgiving morning to help chop celery, onions and crumble biscuits and cornbread for the dressing.
made the best Spanish rice ever. I remember we added lots of Ketchup. On fish night, it was sometimes an extra treat if Daddy fried the fish.
Hot potato salad was a favorite, too. Mash the potatoes right off the stove, add onion, sweet pickles and a little mayo and stir it up. Honestly the best. My sister makes it too, and it’s
Mama also made the best salmon stew and oyster stew. Oysters, as you know, were expensive, so it was a treat to have oysters. Because there were six of us, everyone got a certain number of oysters. Yes, we
As my sisters and I grew older, we’d team up each evening to at least “get supper started” for Mama. That seemed to help and it was a lot of fun, actually. My favorite meal to prepare with one of my youngest sisters was a big pan of Spanish rice, hamburger patties and fresh fries. We
Hudson said her mom would open a can of Dinty Moore Beef Stew or make some Chef Boyardee ravioli and Kraft Macaroni & Cheese if she didn’t have time to cook a home cooked meal. I remember having stew beef from a can occasionally and even today when I see a can of Dinty Moore, I have to smile. Our meals were pretty simple, and yet, what I wouldn’t give to have one of those tasty meatloafs, a piece of her chicken and hot potato salad for supper tonight. I’d even enjoy a bowl of greens or ‘Poke Sallet’ with hot cornbread and a piece of “streaked meat.”
Oh well, maybe I’ll settle for some Dinty Moore Beef Stew and some of those Mary Bs.
Contact Jean Gordon at: gordonjean211@gmail.com
Hutchins, Jr., age 66 of Spindale went to be with his Lord and Savior Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
November 16, 1959, in Rutherford County and was a son of the late Tommy Ray Hutchins, Sr., and Nancy Reid Hutchins.
He was a graduate of Rutherfordton-Spindale High School, and he worked for 20 years for Doncaster Tanner Companies. He was also a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ having been ordained more than 25 years ago. He was the Pastor of Full Gospel Revival Church in Rutherfordton. Tommy served in all facets of the church, and he had served on 10 mission trips to Haiti over the years.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, McKenzie Hutchins.
Survivor include his wife, Janet Hutchins, his daughters, Niki Hutchins, Shasta Hutchins, Sarah Hutchins, Rebekah Hutchins, and Genesis Hutchins, his sons, Billy Jackson, Justin Jackson, and Davin Hutchins, his brothers, Eddie Hutchins, Randy Hutchins, and Johnny Hutchins, 12 grandchildren, Dalven Hutchins, Jarvis Hutchins, Haley Wilson, Jabar Mayse, Junior Montgomery, Michael Wilson, Marcus McKinney, Kaden Hutchins, Alaina Hutchins, Carson Praytor, DeKota Hutchins, Anna Beth
Clyde “Dell” Odell Lutz
Clyde “Dell” Odell Lutz, 71, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026. He was born in Gaston County to the late Moses Odell Lutz, Jr. and Ellen Peller Lutz. He is also predeceased by his sister, Margaret Martin and husband, Curtis Martin. Left to cherish his memory are his son and daughter-in-law, Daniel Ian Lutz and wife Robyn; grandchildren, Samantha Syboutlan and RJ Syboutlan; sister, Wanda Lutz; brother and sister-in-law, Phillip Lutz and wife Laura; friend and mother of Daniel, Debra Lutz. Dell served in the United States Army. He retired from Commercial Truck Driving. Private Family Services will be held at a later date. Memorial tributes may be made at www.rsmorganfsl.com. Robert Morgan Funeral and Cremation Service, LLC is serving the family.
According to scripture, one of the most distinguishing characteristics of a child of God is love. At the moment of salvation divine love is placed in the heart of every believer through the Ministry of the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). Every child of God has been blessed with the propensity to love God and to love others. As we yield to God and deny our sinful nature, we will unleash a God-given love that is beyond human understanding. Jesus mentioned love often when he was instructing his disciples on how to relate to God and others. His words recorded in John 13:35, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” reveals love’s outward impact. Later the Apostle John wrote that anyone who is born of God will have a special love for those in God’s family. According to scripture, all born again believers carry the birthmark of love. There are times when the authenticity of our love is tested. Paul’s matchless chapter on love in 1 Corinthians 13 describes what
sons, Greg Hester and Wes Hester; 6 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his mother, Jeanette S. Pounders, his father, Joseph C. Pounders, Sr. and a sister, Linda P. Hall.
The funeral was held January 16 at Longleaf Baptist Church, Wilmington. Burial followed at Sunset Cemetery Shelby with graveside service conducted by stepson, Pastor Greg Hester.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made in memory of Curt Pounders to Long Leaf Baptist Church, 317 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28412.
Curt Pounders was born in Shelby, NC, on May 17, 1943. He graduated from Shelby High School and graduated from N.C. State University with a B.S. in Math. He retired as an analyst from the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency.
Curt loved the Lord and was a member of Long Leaf Baptist Church.
Andrews Mortuary Wilmington and Robert Morgan Funeral and Cremation Service, LLC are honored to serve the Pounder Family/Friends.
WORDS COUNT
Tate, 56, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
He was born to the late Phillip Baxter Tate and Joyce Roberson Tate in Rutherford County. He is also predeceased by his daughter, Nancy Renee Schultz; grandson, Kyle Ray Martin; brother, Todd Phillip Tate; grandparents, DB Tate, Rosemary Tate Bailey, Cecil Bailey, Austin Roberson and Elizabeth Roberson; uncle, Steve Tate.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Angela Tate; sons, Charles Michael Mayes and Nicholas Ryan Mayes; grandchildren, Conor Ray Martin, Makayla Schultz, Caydence Schultz, Maddilyn Mayes, Jace Mayes, Nicole Mayes, Axle Mayes, Maxwell Mayes and Cora Mayes; sister, Cori Elizbeth Tate; aunt, Jennifer Tate; cousins, Dawna Tate and Ron Tate.
Tommy worked for JNJ Express for many years.
Celebration of Life Services were held January 17 at Haynes Memorial Baptist Church, Forest City. Memorial tributes may be made at www.rsmor-
Doris was born July 7, 1939 in Rutherford County to the late Joseph Earl Greene and Carrie Cleo Guffey Greene. She worked as a paint inspector for AGI for 30 years and was a member of Morning Star Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Wallace Eugene Gowan; a daughter, Brenda Gowan; sister, Marie Pope and brothers, Bud and Grover Greene.
Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Randy Gowan of Forest City, Joseph Gowan of Forest City and Chris Gowan (Rebekah) of Hendersonville; siblings, Judy Street (Charles) of Forest City, Helen Matheny (Bill) of Forest City, Daisy Green of Forest City, John Greene of Rutherfordton, Jerry Greene (Barbara) of Grace, Idaho and Shirley Bradley (Joe) of Ellenboro; grandchildren, Billy Jones (Sarah), Brandon Gowan (Danielle), Brian Lee, Autumn Gowan, Maci Gowan; great grandchildren, Jace, Harley, Lisa, Zack and Cameron.
Shelby Jean Reece (Blanton) April 4, 1940-January 15, 2026
Shelby Jean Reece, age 85, passed away January 15, 2026.
A native of Rutherford County, she was the daughter of Luther Grayson Blanton and Cumi Harris Blanton.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harley Reece; her son, Michael Reece; her daughter, Robin Edwards; sisters, Joyce Wells and Marilyn Price, and brother, Carlyle Blanton.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Sharon and husband J.D., and grandchildren, Jordan Lattimore, Harley Lattimore and wife Lindsey, Matthew Lattimore and wife Sydnee.
The funeral service was held in the chapel of Crowe’s Mortuary on January 20.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills (PO Box 336 Forest City, NC 2843).
Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.
real love does when it is put to the test. He lists several responses of pure love. Love is described as patient, kind, not envious, is not proud, not rude, thinks and hopes for the best in others and does not deny the truth. Love seeks to leave someone better than we found them. There are certain times that we must dip into the reserve of God’s love. Naturally, it is easy to react angrily or harshly when someone is acting unfavorably toward us or when we are tempted to distort the truth to gain an advantage. Those are times along with many more that we must allow God to take over and to give us the strength to act in love. It may be convenient to say that you love someone, but life’s challenges will test whether it is real or not.
Rutherford Weekly offers the printing of obituaries in our paper as a community service and free of charge for Rutherford County residents and the immediate area. The obituary may include a picture if the image is of print quality. We request that the obituary is limited to 150 words and we will edit the obituaries due to space. The obituary will include preceded family members, surviving family members, funeral service information, memorials, and the name of the funeral home serving the family. The obituaries will not include names of grandchildren, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, or pets. We only accept obituaries from licensed funeral homes. The deadline is Monday at 10AM prior to Thursdays publication. Please have your funeral home send us your loved ones’ obituaries to events@rutherfordweekly.com
Chase High School. She was also a member of Spencer Baptist Church having served as Sunday School Teacher, office staff, kitchen volunteer and many other positions.
She is preceded in death by her father, Willie Gray Pritchard; her mother, Mary West Pritchard; her husband, Jerry McKeithan, Sr.; their daughter, Patricia Jan Montgomery; and her siblings, Willie Pritchard, Ernest Pritchard, Pansy Cuthbert, and Brenda Hess.
Joan is survived by her son, Jerry R. McKeithan, Jr. “Mack” and wife, Vimi; grandchildren and their spouses, Joel McKeithan, Jessica Montgomery, Tim McKeithan, Lydia McKeithan and Aaron McKeithan; three great grandchildren, as well as a number of other relatives and friends.
A celebration of her life was held January 21 at Spencer Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Caldwell officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Spencer Baptist Church.
Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com. Crowe’s Mortuary is assisting the family of Joan McKeithan.
Ralph Gene Miller Sr.
Ralph Gene Miller Sr., age 99, of Union Mills, NC, went home to be with his Lord January 16, 2026.
Gene was born to the late Lawrence Edward Miller and Blanche Gantt Miller. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife and lifelong fishing partner, Evelyn Smith Miller; his daughter, Patricia Phipps; his sister, Beth Miller Edwards; and his brother, William “Bud” Miller.
Gene was a proud United States Navy veteran and a retired firefighter, serving his community with dedication and honor.
Those left to cherish his memory include his broth-
informal visitation will be held in the fellowship hall following the burial.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043. Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.
Ellen Padgett Huskey
Ellen Padgett Huskey, age 95, of Forest City, passed away Saturday, January 17, 202.
Ellen was born February 20, 1930 in Rutherford County to the late Frank Padgett and Virginia Lowery Padgett. She was a graduate of Tri-High School, class of 1947 and in 1980 earned her master’s degree from Appalachian State University. She worked for Cone Mill-Haynes plant for many years and later worked at the Florence Mill. She was a member of Haynes Memorial Baptist Church where she served as Music Minister and in many other capacities. She was community minded and a member of the Lucille Wall Music Club, the Women’s Club and served as a Hospice Volunteer.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Maurice “Chocolate” Huskey and brothers, Charles and Jerry Padgett. Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Maurice “Mark” Huskey (Donna) of North Myrtle Beach, SC; daughters, Janice H. Hodges of Hickory and Donice H. Ruppe of the Shiloh Community; sister, Trudy Moore (Bill); grandchildren, Heath Huskey, Heather Huskey, Meredith Bumgarner (Brock), Rose Marie Propst (Cody), Keilah Ruppe, Adria McManus (Derrick), Freddie Medlin (Karen) and Laurie Overman (Rodney); great grandchildren, Lauren Routh, Lexi Cochran, Chase Huskey,
c/o Shiloh Baptist Church, 1850 Poors Ford Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 or to Haynes Memorial Baptist Church, PO Box 617, Henrietta, NC 28076.
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com
Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Timothy S. Henegar
Timothy S. Henegar, age 64, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Timothy was born August 26, 1961 in LaFollette, Tennessee to the late Ernest Henegar, Sr. and Louis Wilson Henegar. He was a graduate of Clay High School in Oregon, Ohio, class of 1979. Timothy worked as an Insulator in the industrial and commercial construction business and was a proud member of the Local #45 Union in Toledo, Ohio.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Ray and Wilma Dippman and brothers-in-law, Kenneth Keeler, George Krohn and sister-inlaw, Joni Nowaczyk.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 41 years, Linda Henegar; daughter, Steffani Henegar (James Kimbrell) of Forest City; son, Timothy Henegar, Jr. (Vanessa) of Ft. Bragg; sisters, Connie Keeler and Nancy Krohn; brothers, Marshall Henegar (Luann) and Ernest Henegar Jr. (Karen), five grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.
No local services will be conducted.
Memorial donations requested to Braedan’s Bridge, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, www.braedansbridge.squarespace.com
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com
Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Josh was a graduate of Hickory High School, class of 2009. He most recently worked as a delivery driver for Amazon until an accident left him disabled. Josh had accepted Christ as his Savior and was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandfather, Alex Deal and grandmother, Gwendolyn Ledford.
Besides his mother, he is survived by his stepfather, Dwayne Gibson of Henrietta; siblings, Dustin Williams, Alex Williams, Austin Williams (Emily), Cierra Pritchard (Jarrod) and Dalton Abee (Miranda); grandmother, Glena Deal and nephews, Kayden and Kolton Williams.
A memorial service was held January 22 at Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Ernie Cole officiating.
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Esther Torres
Esther Torres, age 61, of Mooresboro, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Esther was born December 13, 1964 in Celaya, Mexico to Guillermina Irma Romero who resides in Mexico and the late Isaac Torres Ramirez. She was a dedicated homemaker who loved taking care of her family. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church.
She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Gerardo Mendoza Perez; children, Mariana T. Romero, Guillermo M. Torres, Mayte M. Torres, Maritza M. Torres; siblings, Ruben Torres, Raquel Torres, Isaac Torres, Lorena Torres, Mario Torres, Elizabeth Torres, Norma Torres, Mayra
serving the family.
Rodger Vickers
Rodger Vickers, age 74, passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026.
Rodger was born March 11, 1951 in Rutherford County to the late Pat Vickers and Louise McFalls Vickers. He worked for over 30 years as a weaver at Cone Mills. He was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Barbara Vickers and siblings, Barbara Fowler, Betty Smith, Brenda Buckner and Ricky Vickers.
Those left to honor his life include his son, David Vickers (Nikki) and daughter, Tracy Vickers all of Henrietta; brother, Charles Vickers (Judy) of Caroleen; grandchildren, Jesika Bryant (Barry), Breanna Vassey (Kaitlyn), Ryan McDaniel (Laura) and great grandchildren, Kyleigh, Carter, Kolten, Makenzie, Aiden, Maddox, Lillian, Alianna, Tucker, Briggsten and Waylen.
The funeral was held January 22 at Harrelson
Harvey Henderson
Harvey Henderson, age 79, of Henrietta, passed away Friday, January 16, 2026.
Harvey was born January 30, 1946 in Rutherford County to the late Jessie James Henderson and Myrtle Luckadoo Henderson. He worked in textiles for many years. His last place of employment was at the Galey and Lord Mill in Caroleen.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a nephew, Leroy Hutchins.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife of 55 years, Betty Henderson; daughter, Trina Davis (Jeremy) of Forest City; brother, Larry Henderson (Lamonda) of Caroleen; grandchildren, Jessica Smith, Austin Henderson (Harley), Brianna Henderson; great grandchildren, Mason Rector, McKenlee Smith, Lily Henderson and Daxton Johnson.
The funeral was held January 20 at Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Buddy Campbell officiating.
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Hurricane recovery, resilience, community investment highlight DEQ in 2025
In 2025, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) supported communities recovering from Hurricane Helene, took actions to address PFAS contamination and continued to protect the state’s natural resources for the health and prosperity of all North Carolinians.
The monumental task of helping communities recover from Helene, while rebuilding in a way that makes them more resilient to future storms, played a central role in the Department’s actions last year.
DEQ also completed dozens more projects, tests, studies, grants, education programs and more in 2025 that protected North Carolinians’ health and welfare.
In addition to the highlights below, DEQ focused during the past 18 months on helping North Carolinians recover from Helene:
• Awarded $365 million in grants for water infrastructure repairs and resiliency.
• Mapped 4,000 landslides, helping North Carolinians stay safe from future slides.
• Inspected 400 dams.
• Awarded $12 million to clean up debris in streams and rivers.
• Designated 177 debris collection sites.
In 2025, DEQ received the first federal funding through EPA to improve flood resiliency to drinking water, wastewater and septic systems affected by Hurricane Helene.
The Division of Water Infrastructure received $685 million in supplemental funds and has completed two funding rounds using these funds to date.
The Dam Safety Program established the NC Dam Safety Grant Fund, making $10 million in state funding available to dam owners for the rehabilitation and/or removal of Hurricane Helene damaged high-hazard dams.
In August, EPA awarded DEQ a $61 million grant for Hurricane Helene State Program Support for Hazardous Waste Management. The grant will run through Sept. 30, 2030, and will assist NC with emergency response and recovery from Hurricane Helene. It will fund preparations for emergency recovery as related to DEQ’s hazardous and nonhazardous solid waste, recycling and materials management, emergency response programs and pesticide management.
DEQ created the Western NC (WNC) Recovery Grants Program that provides free, customized grant writing support to local governments and partner nonprofits in
WNC impacted by Hurricane Helene. The program objective is to help impacted communities secure federal and state funding for longterm recovery projects.
NC Geological Survey staff mapped more than 2,600 landslides resulting from Hurricane Helene and responded to more than 400 landslides.
The NC General Assembly allocated emergency disaster recovery funding to DEQ’s Underground Storage Tank Section (UST) to assist owners and operators with testing and repairing tanks storing petroleum and hazardous substances that were damaged by Hurricane Helene. Loans are interestfree and mature upon the earlier of receiving federal disaster relief or other funding, or by June 30, 2030. As of November, DEQ had received 11 loan agreements for more than $1.2 million.
DEQ received an EPA grant (with state matching funds) totaling more than $15.8 million to assess and cleanup spills of petroleum from USTs damage by Hurricane Helene. The grant will run through March 31, 2030, and can be extended an additional two years. The section has identified more than 15 sites that may be eligible for funding. Assessment or corrective action is underway at nine facilities. Evaluation of other sites is ongoing.
The Division’s Solid Waste Section approved 177 sites for temporary management of debris caused by Hurricane Helene. The section also worked with regional officials and residents to manage the debris.
In the aftermath of Helene, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources staff conducted more than 400 dam safety inspections.
The State Energy Office (SEO) launched a $5 million Clean Energy Microgrid Initiative to deploy small solar-powered microgrid systems in areas that lost power due to Hurricane Helene. As of December, five microgrid sites had been selected.
DEQ received the first federal funding for onsite decentralized wastewater to support Hurricane Helene recovery in the WNC region. The $22.5 million EPA award is currently open for applications through the Division of Water Infrastructure until March 2, 2026, and funds replacement and repair of septic systems in a 39-county region of WNC.
DEQ awarded a $10 million grant to MountainTrue, an Asheville based nonprofit, to hire 80 staff to clean up debris from 125 miles of
streams over the next 18 months. Funding from DEQ has allowed the organization to employ 79 workers, who remove an average 10,000 pounds of debris from WNC waterways daily.
In 2025, the State Water Infrastructure Authority awarded more than $877 million in loans and grants to update and harden drinking water, wastewater and septic systems, limit chemical pollution (PFAS), replace lead pipes and assist towns damaged by Hurricane Helene while improving resiliency for future storms.
The $208 million Energy Saver NC program Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) programs launched Jan. 16, 2025, which includes the Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) rebates. As of December, the program processed applications in 98 of 100 counties.
• 2,600 North Carolinians completed an application.
• Approximately $650,000 rebates paid.
• An estimated 293,000 kilowatts annually saved.
• Households participating in the program will realize an estimated annual average savings of $945.
The Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service (DEACS) received $26 million in EPA funding in October for grants to local communities in WNC to improve recycling operations damaged by Hurricane Helene and to conduct recycling and waste management workshops for disaster preparedness.
The Division of Water Resources awarded more than $2.6 million in grants to support stream restoration, water-based recreation and water management projects across NC. The total includes nearly $2.3 million awarded through two different grant cycles of the Water Resources Development Grant program state and local projects fund, and $350,880 to support two stream restoration
projects on agricultural lands through a cost-sharing program with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
DWR awarded more than $5.8 million in grants in funding from the Flood Resiliency Blueprint to support projects that provide flood reduction or flood resiliency benefits across the following river basins in NC: Cape Fear, French Broad, Lumber, Neuse, Tar Pamlico & White Oak basins.
DAQ released an update to the Air Quality Trends in NC report, showing a continued trend of declining air pollution emissions
and improved air quality. In August, NC celebrated being in compliance with every federal health-based air quality standard for 10 consecutive years, which benefits public health and the economy. Among the 20 most populous states in the US, NC has the longest running streak of being in statewide attainment with the standards.
DWR launched a tool to display the results of freshwater sampling conducted through the WNC Recreational Water Quality Monitoring program to help the public identify where E. coli levels are above or below recreational guidance values in three river basins.
Between Nov. 24, 2024,
and Oct. 25, 2025, DWR’s Water Sciences Section laboratories reported 150,769 compound results.
As of Nov. 20, DWR’s Algae Lab resolved 332 reports received on the Fish Kill & Algal Bloom Dashboard, an interactive tracking tool.
DWR completed 2,847 water quality sampling visits through the Ambient Monitoring System, and 351 visits through the Random Ambient Monitoring System. These two programs provide key data to track water quality across the state.
To see a longer list of accomplishments, visit www.deq.nc.gov
Exercise is an important component of overall health. Experts say that adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week. Some believe heading to the gym is the best way to get the exercise they need, and it very well may be… unless it’s not. Some people don’t like going to a gym and are therefore unlikely to do so with enough consistency to
benefit from a membership. However, the gym is not the only place where individuals can meet fitness requirements. Those who are not necessarily enamored with the idea of exercising at a gym for a variety of reasons can rest assured that it’s still possible to be fit and healthy. In 2023, Civic Science polled thousands of Americans on how they chose to exercise and found that exercising at home is more popular than heading to the gym. Fiftytwo percent of respondents
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
At-home exercisers also were 21 percent more likely than gym-goers to say they worked out once a week or more.
People who want to find ways to stay fit without a fitness club membership have plenty of options.
• Get at-home equipment. Setting up gym equipment in a spare room, the basement or the garage can help athome fitness fans exercise. All it takes is some compact weights, perhaps a treadmill or elliptical and a few additional items to exercise effectively at home.
trails can be effective. Plus, it exposes a person to sunlight and fresh air, and provides an opportunity to see people in the community.
• Play a sport and/or join a club. Individuals may want to take up a physical activity, like joining a sports team or participating in a club that has physical activity, such as a hiking club. The Better Health Channel says exercising with a friend is a great way to stay motivated, as each person can spur on the other.
CLUES ACROSS
1. Mechanical lever
7. Rocky peak
10. Leave a country
12. Discount
13. D.C. ballplayer
14. Partner to “oohed”
15. Engine sound
16. Japanese ornamental box
17. Fido is one
18. Amounts of time
19. DiFranco and Phyo are two
21. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)
22. Make secret plans
27. “Tiny Bubbles” singer
28. “His Airness” 33. Morning 34. Perfected
36. Winger guitarist Beach
37. Abba __, Israeli politician
38. Self-immolation by fire ritual
39. A way to save money 40. Pulpit
41. Make ecstatically happy
44. Once more 45. Works on
48. Nocturnal S. American rodent
49. State again
50. Expression of disappointment
51. Type of door
CLUES DOWN
1. Yugoslavian communist leader
2. Exchange rate
3. High school dance 4. Peter’s last name 5. When you anticipate arriving
Israeli city __ Aviv
Goat-like mammals
Margarine 9. End-of-the-spectrum color 10. Make poisonous
Popular beverage 12. Actress Lathan
14. Where planes land and depart
17. Political fundraising entity
18. The distinctive spirit of a people or an era
20. Buffer used in microbiology
23. Light, open carriage
24. Metrical feet
25. Email subject line feature
26. A street with lots of nightmares
29. Rapper Rule
30. River in Scotland
31. One who settles a dispute
32. Most chummy
35. We all have our own 36. Arab tribe
38. Slap
40. Ottoman military commanders
41. Scottish or Irish Gaelic language
42. Emit coherent radiation
43. Sun or solar disk (Egyptian mythology)
44. Inclined to
45. Olfactory reference syndrome
46. Chest muscle (slang)
47. Body part
• Tune into streaming services. Many content providers upload exercise videos online so people can follow along at home or elsewhere. A quick search of YouTube offers a variety of options that fit with the type of exercise one desires. From 30-minute aerobic walking workouts to rebounding to yoga videos, content is there and also may be free to watch.
• Turn on some tunes. Dancing around to favorite songs is a fun way to engage in physical activity. If other exercise ideas seem uninspiring, upbeat songs that get a person moving can help. Union Health says keeping one’s heart rate between roughly 114 to 135 beats per minute is a good workout. Search for songs that will help achieve that rate.
If heading to the gym isn’t a person’s first choice for exercise, there are several other ways to exercise.
EMPLOYMENT
WAREHOUSE INVENTORY
SPECIALIST. Full Time Po-
sition in Clover, SC. Biweekly Pay Schedule - Hourly Wage: $25.00. Job Description: Plan, coordinate, and perform duties related to receiving, stocking, shipping and light truck deliveries of materials such as metal rods, bolts, nuts, screws, washers, anchors, plastic materials, rubber gaskets, as well as other types of fasteners and fittings. Working in all aspects of the general warehouse/storage facility and machine shop Prioritize, organize, and accomplish daily and weekly workloads to include: examine shipment contents and compare records, such as manifests, package lists, invoices, sales orders and purchase orders to verify accuracy Pack, seal, label or affix postage to prepare materials for shipping, lifting materials, using hand tools, power tools and shipping applications Operate transportation vehicles to include light trucks with manual and automatic transmissions to drive and transport inventory to clients, stock their shelves and conduct bin stock inventories Audit and record inventory within the general warehouse / storage facility Inspect physical conditions of warehouse, fleet vehicles, manufacturing equipment as well as conduct maintenance, repairs and replacements if necessary Other Skills and Requirements: Must have 24 months experience High School Diploma or GED Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean record Ability to drive a manual and / or automatic transport light truck Physical strength and the ability to walk, stand, or climb stairs for long periods of time Must have the ability to lift 50 pounds or more Have working knowledge of the US Customary / Imperial System and Metric System of measurement Operate a computer to use Access Data Systems for sales orders, purchase orders, assemblies and inventory management as well as use UPS / FEDEX online shipping applications Working knowledge of different metal materials, colors, hardness, sizes and applications Experienced Forklift driver, (Certified operators preferred). Must be able to operate the KMT 310 SA and 310A Horizontal Band Mitering Machines Must be able to operate the Oyster 582 Metal Rod and /or Bolt Threader Send Resume to the email below if interested or go to the website for more information. Email: Carofast@bellsouth.net Website: https://www.carolinafastener. com (803) 222-9890 carofast@ bellsouth.net
EMPLOYMENT
NEEDED: IN HOME CARE
NURSE for one patient. Harris or Chase community of Rutherford County. If no answer, leave a message. (828) 245-0137
ANNOUNCEMENTS
GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or 704-297-0103
WE CRACK & SHELL PECANS! Come See Us at the PECAN SHOP. We’re Open Every Saturday through March 28, 2026 from 9am til 2pm. Crack & Shell Service for Pecans 50¢ Lb. Located at 304 N. Post Rd., Shelby, N.C. (Facebook: PecanShopNC) Call or Text (704) 476-6992
UNIQUE CHURCH IN SHELBY. The Chapel of Christ. Visit our website at www. chapelofchristshelby.com (704) 538-7888 tware5@carolina.rr.com
HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED YET? Make sure you visit thepixelunderground.com. The Pixel People Pod is our 80s-themed podcast. We discuss 80s things as Generation X kids, such as the toys, music, movies and people we grew up with. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, www.youtube.com/@Thepixelunderground & iHeartRadio!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
$200 REWARD ! For definitive proof of whereabouts of this mirror. Was sold in Shelby NC. Call (704) 300-7912
BUSINESS SERVICES
HANDYMAN SERVICES. No job too small. Have references. Construction, landscaping, etc. Jack of all trades! 40 plus years of experience. 828-375-5773.
SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Small jobs: underpens, outside fireplace, patios, retaining wallsbrick, block and stone. 40 years experience. Call/text (863) 5321587
CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704472-9367.
HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097
BALLEW’S HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING. Local heating and air conditioning company with competitive pricing, quick response times, high quality services by knowledgeable technicians. We offer free estimates on new installations with options for financing if approved. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment. www.ballewsheatingandairllc.com (980) 745-4536 ballewshvac@ gmail.com
WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Reasonable rates! Call or text me at (704) 419-9016
YOUR TRUSTED HANDYMAN SERVICES. NEED A HELPING HAND AROUND THE HOUSE? LOOK NO FURTHER! WE ARE HERE TO HELP TACKLE YOUR NEEDS. DON’T LET THOSE HOME REPAIRS PILE UP—CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! (704) 466-2333
OFFERING QUALITY HANDYMAN SERVICES! All types of Handyman Services. Trim Bushes, Mulching, Pine Needles, Planting, Hauling and Much More! We also install Mini Blinds, Ceiling fans, Deck repair and Staining, Pressure washing! (704) 692-4449
BUSINESS SERVICES
HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE AGENTS, need a little work? Specializing in small-medium jobs. Home repair, yard, chainsaw work. Need a hand? Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823, jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com. CUSTOM CABINETS & WOOKWORK. Over 25 years Experience. Michael Mckinstry. Custom Woodwork, Cabinets, Light Plumbing, Sheetrock, Landscaping. Veteran Owned. (203) 512-5503
AUCTIONS
STORAGE AUCTIONS. PUBLIC SALE for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. 10:00AM, Jan. 23rd, 2026 at C&M Storage; https://www.lincolntonstorage. com, 2841 Maiden Hwy, Lincolnton, NC. Units: #28 Smith, #35 Allison. 10:30AM, Jan. 23rd, 2026 at Baker Storage, https:// www.bakerstoragelincolnton. com, 1896 Gastonia Hwy, Lincolnton, NC. Units: #17/94 Sellers, #71 Hargrave, #110 Firmingham, #61 Barker, #15 Laws. 11:00AM, Jan. 23rd, 2026 at Stanley Storage; https://www. stanleyministorage.com, 3844 Charles Raper Jonas Hwy., Stanley, NC. Units: #121 Crowley. 12:00PM, Jan. 23rd, 2026 at Rutherford Storage; https:// www.rutherfordstorage.com, 1301 US-221 Hwy, Rutherfordton, NC, Units: #A03 Blanton. 12:30PM, Jan. 23rd, 2026 at Patterson Springs Storage; https://www.shelbyministorage.com, 1826 Creek Ridge Rd., Shelby, NC, Units: #21 Guye, #48 Camp, #81 London, #9 Blanton, #37 Greene (704) 473-7358 andrew.sain@gmail. com
FOR SALE
WINCHESTER 36. ELECTRONIC SAFE, $450. S&W M&P super carry. Semi Auto Pistol $500. (980) 336-0247 FREE FIREWOOD. Large Oak & Cherry Tree cut stove length & laying on the ground. You Load & Take all you want. (704) 751-1774
LOCAL HONEY $25.00 per quart. New protective equipment (cheap). Spring swarms $140. Call or text Jackson for prices or questions (828) 9801823
TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, FLATBED TRAILERS, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867
METAL ROOFING ! Metal Roofing - 1 Piece or the Whole Rooftop. “We Also Can Deliver” Deliveries Every Monday & Thursdays. J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
CARPORTS & GARAGES. RV, Boat or Camper Covers. One of North Carolina’s Oldest Dealers! J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
SHIPPING CRATES WITH LIDS. Large wooden shipping crates $35 (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net
FOR SALE
JAKE’S SILVER COINS & BARS. & GOLD COINS & BARS. “WE BUY & SELL SILVER and GOLD! JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-600-6996 or (980) 2955568
LOCAL SHELLED BLACK WALNUTS. $4.00 per cup. (828) 289-3097
HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855
J. JOHNSON TRAILER
SALES. New, Used, Bank Repo’s, Parts, Service, Sales, Finance or Rent to Own. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
4 GRAVE PLOTS CLEVELAND MEMORIAL. $2500 each. 4 grave plots in the Fountain Section at Cleveland Memorial Park for sale. (336) 9021109 cathywall246@gmail.com
STORAGE BUILDINGS !!! Buy One Off The Lot OR Have One Custom Built With Your Colors & Options! Cash • Finance • Rent to Own. “No Credit Check” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895
TRAILERS • TRAILERS • TRAILERS. Utility, Enclosed, Dump, Gooseneck, Equipment, Aluminum. Car or Tractor Haulers. “All In Stock!” Parts Department, Service Department “One Stop Shop!” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
GALVALUME ROOF METAL, $1.99 LF. 45 year warranty, Only $1.99 a linear foot. 704482-7880, www.getabuilding. com (704) 482-7880 info@getabuilding.com
STEEL BUILT BUILDINGS, CARPORTS, GARAGES, BARNS or WAREHOUSES. Engineered Drawings. “If You Have Vacant Land.... This Can Be The Perfect Source For Rental Income!” One of North Carolina’s Largest Site Displays. We do grading, concrete, plumbing, etc. J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
NEW, USED, BANK REPO’S BUILDINGS,. TRAILERS & CARPORTS. (828) 245-5895
HORSE BARNS OR LIVESTOCK RUN IN SHEDS. Barns - Grading, Concrete & Electrical Work If Needed, OR Just Install in Your Pasture. “Large Onsite Display!” J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
THREE NEW 2023-2025 8 ft. F250-F350 truck beds, complete with tailgates and bumpers. $1,000 each. Call or text 828-226-9878.
CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PARK CEMETARY. Two plots located in the desirable fountain section. Two graves per plot. One plot located in section 3 and one in section 6. (910) 523-1462
8 PLOTS & CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PARK. Boiling Springs, NC. Call for info. (704) 418-9770
QUEEN SIZE MAPLE HEADBOARD AND bed frame. $50. (704) 473-4021
GRANDFATHER CLOCK. Very nice, needs cleaned, oiled and adjusted. $200.00 (704) 860-4705
FOR SALE
FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Seasoned Hardwood-1/4 cord- 32 cft.-$70. 1/8 cord-16 cft.-$35. +$15.00 delivery. Bundle packs-ours-$3 each. Stores $7 to $8 +. Burn wood not money. 704-435-3970..
FOR SALE: 30 inch 10hp Snapper riding mower, electric start, new battery. Fresh oil change, sharp blade. $425.00. Hard & to find, ready to mow. (704) 692-4449 stevenmarlow952@gmail.com
BURIAL PLOTS. $3000 FOR TWO burial plots in Cleveland Memorial Park. Worth $5198. Call or text (828) 553-5767
LOST & FOUND
LOST-SMALL BRIGHT ORANGE SUITCASE. Calvin Klein. Lost between Shelby & Cramerton. $500 Reward if returned with full contents. 704472-5739.
WANT TO BUY
WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006
WE BUY, SELL, TRADE TRAILERS. “Must Have Title”. (828) 245-5895
WANTING TO BUY Hardwood or pine timber. 10 acres or more. ***WE ALSO OFFER STORM CLEAN-UP FROM HURRICANE HELENE*** Call 828-289-0742. (828) 289-0742
I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197
WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.
FARM & GARDEN
HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. 4x5 Round Bales in barn, $45 per bale. 5 bales or more $40 per bale. Fescue and Orchard grass. Rutherford County. 828-429-3100. (828) 429-3100
PETS & LIVESTOCK
CKC YORKSHIRE TERRIER. Born 11/01 CKC Christmas Yorkies $950.00 will be ready for new homes 12/20. (704) 6748887 MYLITTLEARIZIONA@ YAHOO.COM
CHIWEENIE PUPPIES Two sets of shots and dewormed. $300 each. 704-466-6983.
DOG KENNELS “ALL SIZES” IN STOCK! 7x7x4; 5x10x6; 10x10x4; 10x10x6; 10x10x6 Split Kennels for 2 Dogs, 10x20x6, ETC. Rain Tops & Dog Houses. “We Can Also Deliver and Install If Needed!” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895 HUSKEY/SHEPHERD MALE, 4 MONTHS. Shots & worming, $100. White Malti /Poo male puppy, 4 months old, $700,
PETS & LIVESTOCK
SHIH TZU POMERANIAN
(BOY). Sweet male Shih tzu Pomeranian. Used to dogs and cats. Shots, worming and vet checked. Located in Greenville NC. Contact (252) 295-9327
CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. Boys and girls, tea cups and regular. No checks, cash only. Call or text me: 704-418-9244, leave message.
AKC CANE CORSO PUPPIES.
3 Males and 3 Females. Contact Ronnie for more information. (704) 974-2716
MINI YORKIE SHIHZU PUPPIES. Mom 6lb, Dad 4lb. 3 parvo shots vet recommended exp breeder. $950-$1500. (864) 623-8803 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail.com
PIT BULL PUPPIES. Ready for their new homes. 5 males, 3 females. Will have first set of shots and proper deworming. $350 each. 704-974-8055. (704) 974-8055
PETS & LIVESTOCK
TWO POT BELLY PIGS. Free to good home. Mother and baby. (704) 418-1942
CANE CORSO PUPPIES FOR SALE. Full blooded. $1500 without papers, $2500 w/papers. Ready soon. Taking deposits. 704-215-0861 Vincent; 980-497-3255 Amanda.
FULL BLOODIED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. For sale. (5 Males & 4 Females) $200 each. (704) 214-9895
FREE PUPPIES TO GOOD HOMES! Labrador and Boxer Mix. 5 Males & 4 Females. 7 Weeks Old Jan. 11th. Small Donation Would Be Appreciated “THEY ARE RESCUED”. 704-284-1543 (cell) or (704) 434-7210
1989 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Convertible. AT, AC, PW, PL, CC, red/black, red leather interior, 40,000 miles, very good cond. $11,900. (843) 609-5903
2008 FORD SUPER DUTY F-450. DRW Lariat Package, Automatic, 4x4, Dually, 4 Door, 72,000 miles, $25,000. Forest City, NC. Call (828) 429-5199
CARS & TRUCKS
2018 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500. “NEW TRANSMISSION with 5 YEAR WARRANTY!” 4x4, Burgundy, LTZ Package, 8 Cylinder, 4 Door, Shortbed, Step Rails, Chrome Sport Wheels, 121,000 miles, $26,500. Call (704) 473-6014
2019 TOYOTA 4RUNNER (TRD) 39,984 miles, garage kept for last 4 years. Dealer Serviced. Call for price. (828) 755-6055
2001 HONDA ODYSSEY Runs good. Transmission good. 100,000 miles. Needs TLC. First $1,500 gets it. Call (704) 418-7184
1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD V6, 149,000 miles. Automatic, power windows & locks, very good condition, good tires & brakes, $3,495. An excellent buy at this price! Also 3-ton chain hoist $195. 6,000 pound coffin hoist $195. Retails for around $600 each. Call or text 828-289-1817. (828) 289-1817
CAMPERS
2002 RV PACE ARROW 35 ft. Queen bed, washer/dryer, large shower, 2 slide-outs, 2 TV’s. Great for home and living purpose. $28,000. 704-473-8289.
REAL ESTATE
CLEVELAND COUNTY
REAL ESTATE
CLEVELAND COUNTY
1ST TIME FOR SALE. Nice 2BR Home, new carpet, fresh paint inside, fenced yard, good neighborhood. Kings Mountain. $200,000. (704) 473-5240
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
A MILLION DOLLAR VIEW! Everything new...carpet, fixtures. Front deck overlooking mountains. Turn-key, ready to move in. $350,000. Call Max Burgin at 704-313-7185
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
1008 E. MARION ST., Shelby, NC. House. 3 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bathroom. Rent $1695, Deposit $1,695. Application Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.
LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE. Has 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications now. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@RPMMANAGED.COM
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
LOCK TITE STORAGE. Units available for rent at 209 South Main Street, Boiling Springs, NC. (704) 434-7800
1 BEDROOM STUDIO APARTMENT. $750 month, Central Heat & Air. (704) 418-1999
SMALL COMMERCIAL
BUILDING. Small commercial building south of Shelby. Good Location. Central Heat & Air. 704-482-7675.
LAUREL HILL APARTMENTS LOCATED IN SHELBY NC. Is currently accepting applications for our 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes. Rent is based on income (and even some expenses are deducted). Call or visit today! 1526 Eaves Road, Shelby, NC or call for more information. Equal Housing Opportunity. (704) 487-1114
SMALL QUIET PARK. 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath House in Nice Quiet Neighborhood. West Shelby off of Hwy 74. Crest Schools. Perfect Starter Home or for Retired Couple. Recently Redone. $750 per Month and Deposit plus Approved Application Required. Small Pets under 15lbs with Approval and Pet Deposit. (704) 600-8909
2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH HOME. In Belwood. Rent $1000, Dep $1000. Heat & Air, Stove & Refrigerator. (704) 747-1781
LOT SPACES FOR RENT for Camper. 1624-13 S. Post Road, Shelby, NC. Monthly $500 includes up to $125 of utilities and deposit is $375. Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.
MODULAR HOME FOR RENT. Must see. Completely remodeled. 2 BR, 2 BA, Laundry room. Upgraded with premium extras. New appliances, Luxury lighting, extra storage, Large deck. Move in ready. 704-8421555.
LINCOLN COUNTY
2432-7 SUN VALLEY TRAIL. Lincolnton, NC. Single Wide. 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. Rent $975, Deposit $975. Application fee $25. 704-214-4180.
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
SINGLEWIDE 3 BEDROOM/1 BATH. For Rent in Forest City. No Pets. $800 Deposit. $800 Month. Taking Applications. (828) 245-8536
OAKLAND 2 BEDROOM BRICK APARTMENT. SS appliances, water, sewer, garbage, included. $850. Oakland 2BR House $995. Only well qualified need apply. 828-9191221.
STUDIO APARTMENT 55+, in town of Rutherfordton. $700 per month. Includes water, internet, trash pickup. Call (828) 829-5850
3BEDROOM 2BATH 2STORY HOME FORSALE $249,900. FOR SALE -IT’S LIKE YOU ARE LIVING IN A MOUNTAIN RESORT HOME - 3BEDROOM 2BATHFULLY REMODELED 2 STORY HOME - CORNER LOT - 3 MINUTES FROM HWY 74. CREST SCHOOL DISTRICT - CENTRAL HEAT & AIR. DUKE POWER- CLEV CO WATERSELLERS WILL PAY UP TO $5000 OF BUYERS CLOSING COSTS. NEW HVACNEW DISHWASHER- NEW PAINT, FLOORING- NEW BUTCHER BLOCK COUNTER TOP- NEW MARBLE BACKSPLASH - NEW CABINETS - NEW BATHROOM VANITY- NEW LIGHTINGOFFICE DESK WORK STATION, & SO MUCH MORE. CALL BETWEEN 9AM7PM SHELBY, NC 28152 (704) 472-6298 BMORGAN0328@ICLOUD.COM
