Cody Moran the Athletic Director and new head football coach at Providence Grove High School gave out bracelets to staff to students with this RISE UP motto. It hit home with the paper. What if we all strived to RISE UP, what a difference we could make in our community, work, family, live and everywhere. I am working toward this for 2025. Let’s all
Fill out a quick Survey to share your opinions about the future of transportation in Randolph County!
¡Complete una encuesta rápida para compartir sus opiniones sobre el futuro del transporte en el condado de Randolph! https://metroquestsurvey.com/r8e9
Or Scan here /escanear aquí (English/Español):
Survey closes on February 15, 2025.
La encuesta cierra el 15 de febrero de 2025
Questions? Contact Dawn Vallieres at dvallieres@ptrc.org or 336-904-0300.
Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese con Dawn Vallieres at dvallieres@ptrc.org o 336-904-0300.
earthvisions@rtelco.net
Randolph Communications Spread The Love In December
We are beyond grateful for the success of our 8th Annual Food Harvest Drive! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our employees, customers, community, and local businesses, and with Randolph Communications matching all contributions, we were able to donate an amazing 16,886 items to eight local food banks, offering essential support to families in need across our service areas:
-Bennett School, Bennett, NC
-Chandler’s Grove GMC Food Pantry, New London, NC
-Christians United Inc. of Southern Randolph County, Seagrove, NC
-CUOC of Randolph County, Asheboro, NC
-High Falls Area Food Pantry, Robbins, NC
-Liberty Association of Churches, Liberty, NC
-Robbins Area Christian Ministries Food Pantry, Robbins, NC
-West Chatham Food Pantry, Siler City, NC
A special THANK YOU to the businesses that donated and partnered with us to make this drive possible: Lowes Foods of Asheboro, Food Lion of Asheboro, Pip Printing, StoneTree Signs, Nutrition Xtreme, Pinnacle Financial Partners of Asheboro, Central Bakery, First Bank of Asheboro, and Movement Bank. Thank you for making a difference!
Local Highlight
Our 2024 Annual Awards Luncheon honored some very important people to our tourism industry and small communities.
We named our TDA Executive Director, Amber Scarlett, as our 2024 Hospitality Hero - for being "a shining example of dedication, whose steadfast commitment has not only raised the bar in the industry but also set a new standard."
The Liberty Showcase Theater owners, Dewey & Leslie Brown, were named our Mary Joan Pugh Excellence in Hospitality Award winners.
Oh, and we revealed our 2025 Official Travel Guide Cover that provides a path of discovery through murals in Randolph County –featuring cover art on grain bins at Linbrook Heritage Estate in Trinity, NC!
Randolph County Animal Services is now the designated agency responsible for handling animal-related complaints or concerns within the Liberty area. Should you require assistance, kindly contact them at 336-683-8235. Valentine's Day is just around the corner! Beautiful fresh arrangements hand-delivered to Liberty, Staley, Snow Camp, Julian and Climax. Trust the Pro's - and order early for the best selection!
Operation Providing Hope Hosts Christmas Event for Families Affected by Hurricane Helene Flooding —
In a heartwarming display of community support, the non-profit organization Operation Providing Hope hosted a special Christmas event at the Asheville Fairgrounds, bringing holiday cheer and much-needed assistance to children and families impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. The event, which took place on Saturday, December 21, was designed to provide a festive and supportive atmosphere for those still reeling from the aftermath of the hurricane's destructive flooding and property damage in western North Carolina. More than 500 local families, many of whom lost homes, belongings, and livelihoods during the storm, gathered to experience a day filled with gifts, food, and community spirit. "We wanted to give these families a reason to smile this Christmas, to show them they’re not forgotten," said Wesley Kleitches, President of Operation Providing Hope. "The devastation from Hurricane Helene is still being felt in so many homes, and it’s important for us to come together and support one another, especially during the holiday season." The event featured a wide range of activities for children and adults alike. Santa Claus made a special appearance, handing out gifts to excited children, while local volunteers and organizations provided hot meals, toys, clothing, and toiletries to those in need. Other nonprofit organizations present in the area, local churches, and businesses also played a key role, offering resources and volunteer support throughout the day.
You Pick Greens
Turnip, Mustard and Kale
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Collards available after frost Pre-picked by appointment only by calling 336-539-0866
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Operation Providing Hope will continue to provide aid to Western NC communities and build their organization further to fulfill their mission. Operation Providing Hope consists of veterans, first responders, and other medical professionals that share a common passion to serve individuals during time of need. An initial 2-week deployment following Hurricane Helene in Black Mountain resulted in delivery of 900,000 lbs of supplies to local communities. Rescue, recovery, medical care, and supply distribution were among Operation Providing Hopes highest priorities. To get involved in future events in WNC, deployments in future disasters, donate supplies, or make monetary donations, visit < OperationProvidingHope.org > or visit Operation Providing Hope on Facebook!
Cheers to a new year!
We here at Sandy Creek would like to thank the good Lord and all those who helped us have a successful 2024!
We cover all things plumbing!
Light Up Liberty!
By Robin Beard Kirkman
There is nothing quite like Christmas in a small town. If you need any proof, just turn your television to the Hallmark Channel at any point of December. Small towns, like Liberty, have quaint goodness year round, but there’s something extra special in December. Maybe it’s the view and sound of groups of carolers going door to door. Or local churches hosting cantatas and Christmas plays with kids dressed in bathrobes as shepherds. Or maybe it’s the lights.
In a world that can be a dark and unhappy place at times, the twinkle and glow of Christmas lights seem to brighten up our lives. I believe that Thanksgiving and its fall decor have a time and place and Christmas doesn’t begin when the last trick-or-treater steps off the porch on October 31st. But I know there’s something special about Christmas lights. That’s why, even with pumpkins on the porch, my Christmas trees go up prior to Thanksgiving. More specifically, they go up the weekend that daylight savings changes and the dark falls an hour earlier. The trees sit naked except for lights, until after Thanksgiving, but the lights are on and glowing.
One of my favorite Christmas traditions growing up would happen on Christmas Eve. My dad would read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (which he still does) and then my sister, my parents and myself would pile into the car and ride around town looking at lights.
With that memory in mind, Light Up Liberty came to life. Folks registered their homes/businesses. I made a map from those entries that folks could follow, enjoy lights, and then vote once a day for their favorite in each category.I was pleasantly surprised at how many folks were on board to register their light displays. I am so thankful for those that have commented how much they enjoyed driving around seeing the various displays. And I was amazed at how many people took time to vote!
We had 18 residential entries in the 27298 zip code. The winner for residential was Daniel Causey of Causey Farm. This drive thru light display of well over 43,000 lights and stretching a quarter mile long, has been nicknamed Liberty’s own “little Tanglewood.” Causey stated he began putting out light displays for others to enjoy during Covid when lights really seemed to cheer folks up during such a dark time. Each year Causey’s display has grown and it is still growing. There is a tremendous amount of time and effort to put this display up and take it down, but thankfully Causey sees it as a labor of love for others to enjoy.
The business category only had four entries this year, but hopefully will grow in entries in 2025. One of the town’s newer establishments, Oak’s Beans, Hops, and Vine was the business winner. Their lights made an awesome place to stop in for coffee, hot chocolate, wine or beer even more inviting. Mike and Angela Oakley did an amazing job with their lights decoration, just like their handcrafted drinks. If you’ve not met Mike and Angela and tried a refreshing beverage from the Oak’s make it a resolution to do so in the new year! Thank you to everyone who participated in Light Up Liberty–those who participated with light displays and those that voted. I look forward to Light Up Liberty 2025! Our town is a very special place and events, like this light contest, just prove what a great small town we have. I grew up here and chose to remain here because it really is a special place to me. Because that same pride spills over into my work life, sponsoring Light Up Liberty was a no-brainer.. As a real estate agent, I take great pride in helping others to love calling Liberty their home, too. Here’s to 2025–may it bring you all health, happiness and good cheer!
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January 2025 The Liberty Leader
Brett Pedigo Now Assistant Chief LFD
Brett shared , "Almost 25 years ago a couple of friends, Ken Harris and Robert Shi told me how much fun they had volunteering at Moncure Fire. Sounded pretty cool and I joined as a volunteer. Well, in order to fight fire you had to get certain certifications so I got those. And to run medical calls you had to be an EMT, so I got that. And I figured since I had some certifications I might as well become fully certified, so I did that through the years. And all the time I enjoyed volunteering running fire and medical calls and helping people.
About eight years ago, while working as a mortgage broker, it was really hard to make a living due to the state of that industry, so I decided to work part time as a firefighter at some department to make some extra money. I saw a facebook post from Liberty Fire Department needing part-time help so I applied. And that turned out to be the best professional, and one of the best personal, decisions I have made in my life. About a year later I became full time. Yesterday I was promoted to Assistant Fire Chief at LFD. I get to work with a great staff and an amazing fire chief. 25 years ago I could never have dreamed this would happen some day. I absolutely love the job. It is the best job in the world.”
Santa Project In Ramseur A Great
Success Another Year
5 years ago we started this crazy idea of delivering gifts to well deserving children on a full size roadworthy sleigh with Santa and Mrs Claus.
Now it is a 2 day long event serving 50 children with sponsors from all over the world. Cheryl Rank and I have been blessed with the partnership from day 1 with HenryandCamie Lee that have sacrificed thier holiday season along with us every year to do God's work. And for the past 2 years we have been blessed with the friendship and support of Holly from the Nehemiah project. And I can't forget Beverly at Millstone that has been supporting this project from day 1.
And somehow we have managed the impossible by getting the same sponsors every year to not only engage but grow thier donations to match out ambitions. Chris Lackey (Asheboro Auto Mall)and his family not only are our largest sponsor, but provide us the truck to pull the sleigh and help deliver the gifts.
So darn proud of this project, my wife, our partners, our sponsors, and our friends as I see the joy on the children's faces when they see Santa pull up in thier driveway and start hauling the sacks of gifts in.
Blessed James Rank
And just like that...9 hours later our project Santa sleigh is complete.. Thank you to everyone who donated, sponsored, and volunteered. We could not have done it with out all of you. A special thanks to Mr and Mrs Claus and our elf for taking time out
As you are cleaning up after the Holidays or just cleaning out for the
The County has contracted with WM to operate six manned convenience sites that collect solid waste and recyclables from citizens of Randolph County. Those sites are located in Asheboro (landfill), Coleridge, Farmer, Liberty, Randleman and Trinity.
For more details, visit https://www.randolphcountync.gov/271/ Convenience-Sites or call 336-628-6026.
January 2025 The Liberty Leader Newspaper
Christmas Program 2024
14 December 2024…..
Opening by 15th District Vice Commander….Edward A. Roberson
Invocation…….Ron Hill
POW/MIA Remembrance…..Cary A. McMasters, PDC
Pledge of Allegiance…..Commander Roberson
Induction of Guests…..Cary A. McMasters, PDC
Recognize WWII & Korea War Veterans
Opening Remarks…….Cary A. McMasters.. Post Adjutant Awards
Randolph County Honor Guard .. Remarks.. Terry Brown
Citation for Meritorious Service
Liberty Fire Department/Julian Fire DepartmentCertificates of Appreciation
Staley Firefighter of the Year… Certification of Commendation
Jacob Whatley by Jason Hicks
Liberty Police Officer of the Year….Officer Scott Lyon BIO by Cary McMasters, PDC
Randolph Couty Sheriff’s Officer of the Year…Captain Jeff Cook By Major Jamieson L. Brown
Post 81 Honorary Membership Certificate to Donald K. Thompson by Cary McMasters -voted on in October
Recognition of Post Activities Committee
Auxiliary Unit #81 / SAL Squadron 81
Liberty American Legion Raffle & Door Prizes
Post Closing Closing Prayer ..Ron Hill OVER
Flowers are provided by Liberty American Legion Post 81 For Door prizes
Liberty American Legion Post 81 supports:
Two Baseball Teams wore Post 81 Sponsor shirts this year
Boy Scouts of America
Tar Heel Boy’s State & Girl’s State at Catawba College
We gave School Medals to 8 students in elementary schools
The Post is also involved in all types of Community Activities
We put out about 700 flags on Memorial Day & Veterans Day
The Post hosted a Memorial Day & Veterans Day Program
We had a Flag Retirement Program
The Post enters the Veterans Day Parade in Asheboro & Christmas Parade in Liberty
Liberty Post 81 has Members that are on Department Committees & Commissions as well as 15th District Officers. The POST has a great core group of members that step up and do the work and the fundraisers to support the Post & Programs.
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NERMS Beta Girls Rock!!
A huge thank you to all the businesses who donated to help support our local nursing home residents and people in need! Also thank you Mandy King for making sure the girls got everywhere they needed to go!
“So proud of these 4 Beta girls. They have worked hard these last few weeks on their project. They raised money and got donations to make 40 gift bags for Ramseur nursing home. They took the money they had left over and selected 2 kids off the angle tree and were able to buy everything on their lists. They also had 2 boxes of things left to send to western Carolina. Thank you to all the local businesses and people who donated to make this possible.” - Mandy
New Head Coach
Climax, NC – January 3, 2025 – Providence Grove High School is pleased to announce that Cody Moran, the current Athletic Director, has been named the new Head Football Coach for the Patriots. Coach Moran, who has been a dedicated member of the school community since 2019, will take the lead of the football program, bringing a passion for success, leadership, and Patriot pride to the role.
As Athletic Director, Cody Moran has already made a significant impact at Providence Grove, demonstrating his passion for athletics and his dedication to fostering a positive, competitive environment. His new role as Head Football Coach is the natural next step in his leadership journey, and he is eager to bring his energy, vision, and work ethic to the Patriots’ football program.
Moran has an extensive background in the Providence Grove football program. Since joining the staff in 2019, he has steadily progressed through key coaching roles. He began his tenure as the Running Backs (RB) Coach for one year, followed by his role as the Defensive Line (DL) Coach from 2021 to the present. In the 2024 season, Moran served as the Defensive Coordinator.
Patriot
"Coach Moran's knowledge of the game, his commitment to our students, and his passion for the community make him the ideal choice to lead our football program," said Providence Grove administration. "He is deeply embedded in our community, embodying the values of hard work, integrity, and pride in all that he does. We are excited to see him continue to elevate our football team and guide them to success." We are excited about the future of the Patriots under his leadership."
Coach Moran’s journey with the Patriots has allowed him to build strong relationships with players and the broader community. His pride in his work and his role within the school makes him an outstanding ambassador for the football program. As he steps into his new position, the school is confident that his leadership will guide the team to new heights.
The Providence Grove High School Patriots are looking forward to a successful and enduring partnership with Coach Moran, with the shared goal of building a long-lasting and competitive football program.
Country
MR. AND MRS. CLAUS VISIT PROVIDENCE GROVE HIGH SCHOOL!
Randolph County School System
Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus had a phenomenal time cheering on the PGHS Patriots December 18 at their home basketball game, lifting everyone's spirits. Even more wonderful, all the kids, young and old, got to visit with them. The elves made special patriot candy and hats to give away, bringing happiness to all. Every day is indeed a great Patriot day! Providence Grove appreciates the support they receive from the community, each person truly makes a difference in the culture of Patriot Nation!
The Groves Article For January! “ Christmas Break Recap"
By Callie Lambert
As a much needed winter break comes to a close PGHS students and staff reflect on their time with family and friends over the holidays. I was able to talk with a few of Providence Groves athletes and teachers to get an inside look on how they celebrated their holiday break.
Brady Collin’s (A PGHS Football player, Basketball player, and Golfer) -
“This Winter break i was spending time with family, opening gifts on Christmas, and enjoying good fellowship with my friends.”
Jan.
Kirsti Burrow (PGHS Math Teacher)-
“This holiday season me and my baby boys went to go see Mufasa and sonic the hedgehog three. We also made sure to get lots of sleep because on Christmas Day Santa would be coming to deliver presents to my kids.”
Lara Wiseman (PGHS Volleyball and Softball Player) -
“For Christmas, I’m will be traveling to West Virginia to spend time with my Nana (Grandma) and Brian (Step Grandpa). We’re going to build gingerbread houses and open presents on Christmas.”
Holden Swift (PGHS Football Player)-
“This Christmas I’m hanging out with friends, hanging out with family, eating good food, and opening presents from Santa Claus.”
In the coming weeks PG students will be preparing for their upcoming exams, and teacher made tests before the change in semesters. This change will bring many new challenges and experiences for the PGHS Students. On behalf of the entire PG community I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a prosperous new year!
RISE UP
New Clothes Closet
We are excited to announce that First Baptist Franklinville NC is establishing a “CLOTHES CLOSET” for the community, and we welcome partnerships with individuals, various local groups and organizations, such as Scouts, civic organizations, businesses, retail stores, any churches, ladies' groups, rotary clubs, American Heritage girls, Trail life troops, D-life groups and Sunday School classes to donate new and gently used clothing items, aiming to open the closet soon. Please share to spread the word! First Baptist Franklinville is located at 440 Academy Street Franklinville, NC 27248. We are now OPEN for anyone who wants to make a visit to First Baptist Franklinville “Clothes Closet” Message us on fb or call/text (336) 676 - 2556. We can meet at a time that works for you! *Everything is free* Please share and let people know about us! New and gently used donations are always appreciated!
Ask the Town Manager Questions November 2024
How is the Town going to decorate for Christmas? When are they gonna decorate for Christmas? – The Town should start decorating for Christmas the week of Thanksgiving. We will have some new light pole decorations that our Public Works director, Joseph Walsh, was successful in procuring!
When can we get a different restaurant than pizza – like seafood, or steakhouse? Is Liberty gonna get any more restaurants (no more coffee shops, lol, we have enough)? How many more bars will we approve? The businesses that are interested in opening up in Town or that are open in Town were not asked or placed in those locations by the Town. Developers reach out and ask a variety of questions for their client to determine if Liberty will be a good fit for their business, which involves population, what is existing, utilities, regulations, transportation, etc. As long as the developer meets the adopted regulations, then projects are typically approved. So, if there are specific businesses you want to see in Liberty, outreach from the citizens, discussions with Economic Development, to the businesses could be profitable.
Why do we allow black plastic on downtown businesses that are not under construction? This brings the overall appeal down and why do they need it? What are they hiding? Currently, our regulation does not have standards for blocking windows. At times, this is handled with other codes more involved with safety (fire and building). However, ordinances are living documents and can be amended, so there is a potential this could change in the future.
Why isn’t there a handicapped accessible park? For all kids!!! The Town will soon begin construction at Freedom Park for the splash pad, concession stand and restrooms, parking, and courts. This is being funded primarily by a grant, and there are specific items required to be covered prior to using the funds to support construction, and we are very close!
Where is Liberty’s new school going? What are the plans for the current elementary school building after the school moves out? The Randolph County Commissioners approved a purchase and sales agreement on October 7, 2024 at 4547 Starmount Road, and containing 32 acres. The goal is to complete the elementary school by spring of 2027. There have been no discussions of plans for the future of the current elementary school. It is owned by the Randolph County School System and suggestions/comments should be directed to their office. What are you doing with the old police station? There have not been any discussions about what will be done with the previous police station. It is costly to repair the building currently there. Why is it so hard to hear the Town Hall meetings over Facebook? Please fix it. Most times, the volume deals with those speaking, glitches in Facebook Live, connective issues. The Town will be having IT look into the issue to determine what can be done to make sure everyone is heard clearly.
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Coleridge Rd., downtown Ramseur, N.C.
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Small dogs under 20 lbs. Accepted
Congratulations On Retirement
Yesterday Liberty Fire Department honored the retirement of a truly great man and Jason Phillips is retiring at the end of this year after 23 years of service to LFD and over 30 years of service to Randolph, Lee and Chatham Counties. During that time Chief Phillips has helped save numerous lives in Liberty and the Northeast Fire District, including one as recently as October.
In his years with LFD, Chief Phillips served as a lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and deputy chief. He also served a number of years as Deputy Medical Director of Randolph County Emergency Medical Services. He has been, and is currently, an Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant at Randolph County Hospital. Chief Phillips is a model of how a professional should conduct themselves. He has been a great in everyone that has worked at the fi re department through the years.
Get your driveways ready for the winter months
Extra! Extra!! Read all about it!! This Aggie is at the Goal Line!! Determination! Motivation! Dedication & Committed to this Special Moment in time!! Our new College Graduate of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University! We are so proud of this huge milestone ! Better known as A & T!! God, We thank you!!
Rise shine and give God glory!!!! This is what perseverance looks like! This sweet lady, Liberty Local Vera Andrews is a proud 2024 graduate of the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. Eighty years old didn't deter her from her dream of walking that stage tomorrow. Liberty is proud of you Vera Andrews !!!!! Aggie Pride!!!!
Wow, this is a great find!
The food is amazing and the servers are top-notch!!! The Angus steak trimming burger with angus chili is absolutely mouth watering. The Belmont Burger is a must-try! Be sure to visit Belmont Store and Diner located at 4214 NC-49 S, Burlington, NC 27215. I look forward to trying their breakfast! For breakfast they have a Dump Truck - from what I have been told its a layer of eggs - bacon - sausage - cheese - all cooked on flat top and then folded on top of each other and made into a sandwich. All the locals said it a trip back I need to take. The business is locally owned by Ricky and Betsy Craven. Message from store and diner, “We want our customers to know how much we really do appreciate you, who are also our friends. We get caught up in everyday busy work and don't thank you enough. You help us survive the big boys out there as well as helping us keep 10 employees living. We try to keep our prices low while still making a profit. So we really do appreciate your loyalty. “
LOFLIN FUNERAL
Modern Woodmen Home Town Hero-
Susan Everyone if you would , stop and congratulate this amazing woman for not only getting the Home town Hero award last night at Hurricane Jane's, but also for finding sponsors for 116 Angel tree participants this year ! This lady always amazes me , especially at this time of the year..she has a heart of gold and is very committed to what she does !! Thank you Susan Aydelette - you are amazing.
Susan shared,"I'd like to personally thank all my crew and the patrons, friends, First Baptist Church ,Liberty chamber and all the local businesses that had a part in helping the angel tree this year we helped 116 kids. I would also like to thank ModernWoodman for the Hometown hero award. . Thank you all for all your continued support.”
