Rutherford Weekly 4-18-24

Ruff’ton Roots Community Garden is hosting its Plant Sale on Saturday, April 27 under the shade sails at 128 Hospital Drive, Rutherfordton. The sale begins at 10am and continues until 1pm or until sold out.

Parking is available in the lot off Edwards Street (turn in at the new Ruff’ton Roots sign). This is a celebration of the last frost date for the region and the beginning of the fourth growing season for the garden.

The Ruff’ton Roots Plant Sale is a collaboration of Community Garden volunteers growing chemical free plants as a fundraiser for the Garden’s annual operating expenses including seed, soil amendment and irrigation purchases.

The 2024 Plant Sale has been entirely volunteer lead, with volunteers sprouting seeds, growing seedlings, potting up, and taking divisions from their own garden perennials.

“This is a great place to find a mix of our favorite varieties of vegetables and fruits as well as beneficial plants we’ve been growing to support our pollinators at the garden, plus it supports the work we do by funding our operational budget,” said Executive Director Lindy Abrams.

Plants are available in 6 packs, 4 inch pots, and 6 inch pots at suggested donations of $4, $3, and $6, respectively. The Plant Sale will offer volunteer favorite varieties of herbs, vegetables, and beneficial flowers. There will also be seeding activities for kids and information guides on companion planting for Ruff’ton Roots’ new merchandise will also be available, including the return of the famous T- shirts, Cash is preferred, with cards accepted for purchases of $5 or more. It is recommended to arrive and that has proven to be true. We were relative

David Foster’s “The Prayer” Borodin, Mozart Selections from “Les Misérables”

strangers when this began in 2021, but this feels like a real community has developed around gardening as public service,” Lindy said.

2024 programming includes community art installation projects at the Gardens, the inaugural planting of the Safe Pathways raised beds, expansion of perennial fruit plantings and pollinator zones, and the return of Sunflower Days and Empty Bowls later in the season. All food grown at Ruff’ton Roots is shared with the community by donations to local food pantries and soup kitchens.

Abrams says there is always a need for more volunteers.

“The more people we have, the more room there is for expansion, special projects, installations and service,” Lindy said.

There are approximately 10 volunteers that have been with Ruff’ton Roots from the beginning.

“We are an ‘at will’ volunteer organization, so we have had volunteers step out to deal with personal life changes, and return months later without skipping a beat. We record volunteer hours contributed as a whole group, without keeping score on individuals. We do not have a minimum time commitment to become a volunteer,” Lindy continued.

Ruff’ton Roots Gardens open for visitors

The Ruff’ton Roots Gardens at 128 Hospital Drive and LeRoy Mull Drive are now open for visitors, with Safe Pathways signage installed for a self-guided tour, thanks to generous fundraising effort from Rutherford Women’s League.

“We ask that visitors not pick or harvest, unless invited to do so by volunteers,” said Lindy. Additional ongoing support for the Ruff’ton Roots is provided by the Town of Rutherfordton, Rutherfordton Public Works, the Rutherfordton Garden Club, Broad River Water Authority and private donations.

To learn more or become a volunteer, visit rufftonroots. org or email rufftonroots@gmail.com

Compiled by Jean Gordon. Christine Kemerait Photos.

Executive Director Lindy Abrams with one of the newest volunteers, Jamie Gray preparing for the plant sale.

Bills Creek marketing its community club

The Bills Creek Community Center has created an online merchandise shop containing a number of different items, such as mugs, caps, T-shirts, hoodies, magnets and stickers in a variety of sizes and colors. Orders benefit the Bills Creek Community Center financially and will help to spread the word about the Center. The Bills Creek Community Center’s mission statement is, “To provide a central place for neighbors to meet and grow, a place that seeks to improve the health and well-being of the whole community.”

167 ROPE award recipients

The Robert and Janice McNair Educational Foundation announced recipients of the 2024 ROPE (Reaching for One’s Potential for Excellence) Award. 41 seniors from Chase High School, 40 seniors from East Rutherford High School, and 46 seniors from R-S Central High School were selected to receive the ROPE Award this year, receiving a total of $1,046,000.

The ROPE Award is given annually to students who have taken challenging classes, made good grades, served the community, demonstrated upstanding character at school and in the community, and overcome obstacles to reach for their potential. ROPE Award recipients are selected by the ROPE Award Teacher Advisory Council consisting of teachers from the high school and feeder middle and elementary schools. “The beauty of the ROPE Award is that it is not limited and students aren’t competing with each other,” said executive director and main banquet speaker Monica Lee. “Students only compete with themselves, challenging themselves to make the grades, take the right classes, do well on college entrance exams and provide service to their community.” To be eligible to apply for the ROPE Award, students must maintain a 3.0 weighted GPA, meet the University of North Carolina system’s admissions requirements, make at least a 1080 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT, or take a combination of the tests 2 times, provide a minimum of 70 service learning hours to the

CrusadersValley

community. Students can begin working towards the eligibility requirements the summer prior to their freshman year in high

The Foundation will hold a celebration to honor Award recipients April 18 (today). ROPE Award recipients are also eligible for financial aid of up to $8,000 for up to four years of postsecondary education.

2024 Award recipients are: Lucero Aguado, Kevin Aroche Rios, Alejandro Arredondo, Addison Arrowood, Jesse Arrowood, Marissa Arwood, Katelyn Arwood, Carissa Bailey, Taylor Barker, Jordan Baxter , MaryGrace Beam, Carson Bennett, Natalie Bennett, Dalea Bivens, Chloe Black, Lilly Bowers, Haley Bradley, Savannah Breeden, Lucas Bright, Olivia Brown, Aiden Burdge, Alexxus Burns, Matthew Butler, Layla Carpenter, Emma Clayton, Billy Mac Clement, Ashton Coffey, Andrew Cortor, Abril De La Cruz, Kristina Curry, Spencer Davis, Jordan Dixon, Kali Doggett, Gloria Ekstrom, Jacob Ellenburg, Roselyn Enriquez, Zaira Escalera, Max Lozano, Jacob Ezell, John Flores, Nathan Flynn, Cora Goforth, Alexis Grayson, Dalton Green, Katherine Greene, Madilynn Griffin, Dawson Hardin, Julianne Hardin, Michayla Hendren, Madison Hendrix-Rhodes, Christopher Hensley, Eli Henson, Karina Hernandez, Karla Hernandez, Hallie Hernandez, Jordan Herron, Lynsey Hettrick, Zoe Hodge, Boone Hodge, Kaylie Holland, Kaylin Hooper, Brooke Hope, Carrie Houser, Riley Howard, Mackenzie Hughes, Madalyn Hughes, Betty Huntley, Anndrea Jackson, Valerie Jackson, Harrison Jackson, Ben Jordan, Ty Kilgo, Montana Kiser, Jada Knox, Rylie Kurkendall, Savannah Lail, Josiah LaNave, Dallas Lankert, Garrett Lawing, Abigail Lewis, Azariyah Littlejohn, Casey Lyda, John McBrayer, Anslee McDaniel, Kyler McGinnis, Alayah Moore, Braylen Morrow, Jamya Mosley, Mileah Murphy, Zack Nix, Hannah Onyango, Nykeria Petty, Cagney Pruett, Sydney Radford, Emory Ray, Brock Reid, John Rich, Cierra Roach, Jenna Roberson, Ruth Rodriguez Alonzo, Sara Rothrock, Keelen Ruppe, Molly Shew, Caleb Shires, Ragan Sisk, Michael Smith, Lauryn Smith, Cheyenne Stanley, Jada Stroud, Taylor Thompson, Lillian Tipton, Mary Grace Tisdale, Joselin Velasquez, Levi Vogel, Madison Wease, Skylar Whitaker, Jacob White, Jada Whitesides, April Whitley, Noelle Wilson, Olivia Wilson, Ashleigh Womick, Travis Woods, Takoda Woods, and Easton Zaffuto.

Chairmen of theBoard

The Rutherford County Endowment awarded sixteen grants totaling $90,660 to Rutherford County nonprofits in its recent grant cycle. The Endowment, in partnership with The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC), has awarded grants since inception totaling $1,841,523.

“Through its grant program, the Rutherford County Endowment supports local nonprofits doing work in our community,” said Advisory Board Chair David Eaker.

Community for a Juneteenth education program.

• $5,000 to Mosaic Hope to provide support for children in foster care and foster families.

• $7,160 to Out Of The Ashes to support its homeless shelter operations and programs.

• $8,000 to Pisgah Legal Services to provide free civil legal assistance and advocacy to low-income survivors of domestic violence and child abuse.

“Building an endowment for Rutherford County has allowed us to give back to organizations that provide critical services and improve the quality of life for everyone who lives here. We hope that we can fund more programs with more dollars each year, which is why we continue to grow the Endowment. We are grateful to our friends and neighbors who support us in these efforts.”

The 2024 grants are:

• $5,000 to Basics Christian Ministries to upgrade its plumbing.

• $3,500 to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina for a mentoring program that serves disadvantaged youth.

• $8,000 to Blue Ridge Community Health Services to purchase food for its pantry.

• $5,000 to Grahamtown Team to assist in adding space for a food pantry.

• $10,000 to Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach to purchase food for its pantry.

• $3,000 to L.E.A.P. (Leaders & Entrepreneurs for the Advancement & Promotion of Girls & Youth) for a music and education enrichment program that serves diverse youth.

• $4,000 to Martin Luther King Committee of New Hope

• $4,000 to Recovery Ventures Corporation to repair and renovate the driveway of a women’s residential treatment facility.

• $5,000 to Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation to purchase a box truck that will be used to pick up food for its backpack program.

• $8,000 to Rutherford Housing Partnership to repair and improve homes for people with low incomes.

• $9,500 to Salem United Methodist Church/Washburn Community Outreach Center to offer local meats to its clients, improve signage at the Center, provide off-site mobile food pantries and support a community event.

• $2,500 to Special Olympics North Carolina to support the athletes, coaches, and volunteers of a program that serves children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

• $3,000 to Yokefellow Service Center for marketing support to enhance community awareness of its thrift store and services.

In 1996, local residents established the Rutherford County Endowment as a permanent charitable endowment to meet local needs. Gifts added to the Fund’s principal are preserved and invested, while grants from the Fund support nonprofits in Rutherford County. To make

a tax-deductible contribution, donate online at www. Rutherford County Endowment .org or by mail to the Rutherford County Endowment, c/o CFWNC, 4 Vanderbilt Park Dr., Suite 300, Asheville, NC 28803, memo line: Rutherford County Endowment. Contributions of any size are welcome.

Rutherford County Endowment Awards $90,660 in Grants

The local volunteer Advisory Board includes: David Eaker, Nancy Giles, Jean Gordon, Jackie Hampton, Eddie Holland, Marla Machado-Arce, Wilfred McDowell, Tommy Miller, Jill W. Miracle, Pell Tanner, Dennis Tarlton, Robin Van Jura, and Michelle Yelton.

CFWNC works with families, businesses and nonprofits to strengthen communities through the creation of charitable funds and strategic grantmaking. A permanent charitable resource, the Foundation manages over 1,200 funds and has facilitated more than $362 million in philanthropy since its founding in 1978. Learn more at www. cfwnc.org.

For more info visit www. RutherfordCountyEndowment. org.

Article Provided By: Lindsay Hearn

SATURDAY, APRIL 27 • 2:00PM 1896 E GREEN CREEK DR., TRYON,

If you are looking for a multi use farm in what we call horse country, this may be it.

25+or - acres. Entire property is fully fenced. Can drive around entire property line.

PROPERTY FEATURES: 36x98 10 stall barn. Stalls are 12x12 and are matted. Feed room. Large tack room with refrigerator and freezer. Washer and dryer. Bath room. Automatic fly spray system. Matted hall isle. Wash rack with hot and cold water. RECENT 150 X 200 ARENA. 100K Cost to build.

HOME FEATURES: 1904 Sq. Ft. 3 bedroom. 2 bath. Central heat & a/c. New 10x32 rear porch with 2 fans. Comes with (NEW stove), oven, refrigerator, and washer & dryer. No climb fence across front of property. Dog friendly. NEW 12x12 utility shed. Rutherford Electric power.

PLUS: Graded area in back of pasture for a future home site.

ADDITIONAL PROPERTY FEATURES: Automatic gate opener. Key pad entry. Gates at end of drive. NEW in 2024. Trailer friendly graded drive up to house and around barn. 20x30 Divided hay shed. 5 fenced paddocks with water in back pasture. Custom made jumps through out the property. Concrete manure pit behind barn. Good sized pond and more.

Jay Norville 828-305-2465 NCAL#8730 Keith Norville 828-305-3965

NCAL#6559 www.auctionzip.com (Auctioneer ID# 6194) 177

Chimney Rock Management, LLC is a recognized BearWise business. With support from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, BearWise recognizes businesses that have taken significant steps to lessen their impact on wild black bears and keep humans safe in bear territory.

“We live in bear country and we are recreating in bear country,” Ashley Hobbs, special projects biologist for the NC Wildlife Commission said. “We need to take steps to protect ourselves and bears when we’re spending time in a place like Chimney Rock State Park. (These plans) keep bears wild and keep people safe.”

Chimney Rock best educate the public on spending time in areas with black bear activity. efforts around bears to help protect our staff, guests, and

Saturday, April 27th, 10:00AM 130 Susan Rd,. Casar, NC.

JIMMY COOK

PARTIAL LISTING VEHICLES: 2005 GMC Yukon XL, 2002 F350 Ford Super Duty 4X4

Truck, 1998 Ford Explorer XLT, Tractor, Ditch Witch. FARM EQUIPMENT: Kubota B3150 Tractor w/Front End Loader & BH70-X Woods Back Hoe, International 454 w/Front End Attachment, Ditch Witch 4010 Diesel w/Blade & Back Hoe, Buckets, Single Plow, Cultipacker, Leinbach Disc Harrow, Scrape Blade, Cutter. TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: Franklin 150 lb. Dry Wall Hoist, Manual Lifts, 4000 Lb. Lift, Buffalo 14 inch Vertical Wood Cutting Bandsaw, Multiplex 40-A Saw, Buffalo 10 inch Table Saw, Airco Welder, Jack Hammers, Horizontal Band Saw, Pipe Cutter, Guardian Power 16 Speed Drill Press, Chain Hoist, Honda 300 psi Pressure Washer, Troy Bilt 2 Cycle TB225 Cultivator, Wildcat Economy Lift, Grinders, Eskimo Gas Post Hole Digger, Miller Thunderbolt AC/ DC Welder, John Deere 110 Mower, Bauer 2300 psi Brushless 1.2 GPM Pressure Washer, Electric Hand Tools, Troy Bilt Jump Start, McCulloch Chain Saw, Weed Trimmers, Socket Set, 50 Foot Power Feed Drain Cleaner, Ryobi Pressure Washer, Lazy Boy Chain Drive Garden Tractor, Coleman Vantage 7000 Generator, Troy Bilt Mustang 50 Zero Turn Lawnmower. MISC: Honda 200 XR Motor Bike, 90CC 4 Wheeler, Ez-Go Golf Cart, Yard Tools, Antique Stove, Milk Can, Alum. Gates, Misc Household Items.

AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: Jimmy Cook, well known Electrician & Plumber from Casar is selling his equipment & headed towards the Beach. Elliott/Dixon Auctions LLC is privileged to be chosen to auction his equipment. ESTATE (LIVING) AUCTION

TERMS: Cash, Checks w/Bank

NOTE: A big change this year for the Kiwanis Auction. BRING YOUR CHAIRS. Auction will be inside at the Rutherfordton Town Maintenance Building, but we will have the layout so that everyone can sit and bidders can see what is being sold in front of you. There will be some equipment outside to sell at the beginning before going inside.

Guns: Remington rolling block 32 Rimfire w/octagon barrel - A True Antique Gun / H & R Topper Model 88

12 gauge single shot / Stevens Favorite 22 single shot w/octagon barrel / Hatfield 410 gauge single shot / Winchester Model 37 410 gauge single shot / Remington 12 gauge single shot - A True Antique Gun / Smith & Wesson snub nose 38 revolver 6 shot / Daisy model 880B Pellet Gun / Crossman Nitro pellet gun with a Winchester scope / Benjamin Trail MBBP77 pellet gun with Tasco scope / Beeman RS52 Sportsman pellet / 22 caliber gun w/scope. Others could be added by sale day.

Ammunition: There are multiple boxes of most all of these. 9MM - 22 - 45 - 38 Special - 40 S&W - 380 - 12 & 16 gauge shot gun - AR 5.56 - 1 box of Canuck 32 long rim fire.

Early 2000’s Massey Ferguson 1020 Farm Tractor, 5’ 3 blade finish mower - 2005 Dodge Caravan - Multiple Silver Eagle coins - New pocket knives by Case / Buck / and others.

Partial Equipment Listing: (All in running condition) Hand push commercial blower, Yard Machine garden tiller, Craftsman riding lawn mower, Campbell pressure washer, Troy Built pressure washer, Metal wheel barrow, Craftsman 7HP push mower, Cub Cadet push mower, Motorized push edger, Silver Select mulching mower, Weed eater push mower, gas Echo leaf blower, back pack blower, Craftsman & Black & Decker chain saws, 2 Echo gas pruners, Ryobi CS30 tiller, Kaecher by Honda pressure washer, Worx electric blower, yard sprayer, 2

yard trailers and other pieces.

Partial Listing of Tool related: Central Machinery 3/4HP Lather 12x36, (like new) Ryobi bench grinder, Central Pneumatic pancake compressor, Schumacher battery charger, 2 floor jacks in original cases, Torch set, Freud wood jointer, Rigid 10” table saw, ( like new) Task Force table top 10” table saw, Task Force 15” miter saw, Craftsman 8” table top saw, Ryobi miter saw, wooden work bench with drawers, B&D belt/disc sander, 20V B&D drill, sheetrock vibrating saw, Craftsman socket sets, hand wrenches loose and sets, Chicago sander, Chicago circular saw, palm sander, 6’ Werner ladder, other aluminum ladders including 24’ extension, aluminum truck tool box, 1 gallon shop vac, battery chargers, (new) and other pieces.

Household & other partial listing: 2 Cuisinart 10 cup coffee makers, 2 seats, family room furniture, Various tables, chairs, lamps, book cases, 3 LG portable room air conditioners, Food processor, Brass foyer table, 2 very nice dining room table & chairs, patio wicker set, luggage rack for back of vehicle, patio glass top table & chairs, exercise equipment, 2 gas grills, 5’ double door garage storage cabinet, bakers rack, metal wine rack, several pieces of cast iron, (kettle-Dutch oven-sad irons-pans) 10 gallon wash pot, vintage milk can, Stack On gun safe,

glass pieces, crystal pieces, other depression glass, vintage train set in box, other toys, aluminum loading ramps for 4 wheeler, wooden loading ramps, bicycles, and much more.

Photos of many of the auction items for this auction can be seen on auctionzip.com under Auctioneer ID 29763.

carterlodge.com

273 Main St.,

Chimney Rock

828-625-8844

139 West Main St., Spindale • 828-447-3410

Old-Timey Candy Outdoor Gear, Clothing & Shoes Fun Souvenirs and Bubba!

385 Main Street, Chimney Rock 828-625-2479 bubbaolearys.com

APRIL EVENTS

April 19

What: Music at the Mills

When: April 19; meal 6pm, band 7pm

Where: Union Mills Learning Center

More Info: Smokey Mountain Rhythm performing. Meal $6. No admission for music. Tip jar for band.

April 20

What: Rutherford County Farmers

Market

When: April 20; 8am to 12pm

Where: Park Square (across from POPS), Forest City

April 20

What: Rutherfordton Kiwanis

Children’s Auction

April 20

What: Paint the Campus Blue

When: April 20; 9am-2pm

Where: Isothermal Community College student center

More Info: Free event, open to public. 1K fun run, face painting, music, games, contests, food trucks, dunking booth, water slide, fishing & more.

What: American Red Cross Blood Drive

When: April 20; 9am-2pm

Where: Cliffside Baptist Church

What: Free Science Spectacular show

When: April 20; 10am

April 27

What: Ruff’ton Roots Plant Sale

When: April 27; 10am to 1pm

Where: Hospital Drive, Rutherfordton

More Info: Ruff’ton Roots Plant Sale is a collaboration of Community Garden volunteers growing chemical free plants as a fundraiser for the Garden’s annual operating expenses including seed, soil amendment and irrigation purchases.

April 28

Where: The Foundation, Isothermal Community College

MiPubs.com Forest City 828.288.3600 Rutherfordton 828.286.2860

Work Hard, Play Hard, Reward Yourself!

206 Fashion Circle, Rutherfordton 828-395-2230 flyboypizza.com

2024 ANNUAL PASSES... For less than the cost of 2-day tickets, visit the Park as much as you want for a year!

828-625-9611 • chimneyrockpark.com 431 Main Street, Chimney Rock

177 North Main Street, Henrietta 828-657-6328 hollandfurniturestore.com Mon-Fri 9am-6pm•Sat 9am-5pm

When: April 20; 9am

Where: 230 N. Cleghorn St., Rutherfordton

More Info: Theme: “Helping One Child In one Community At a Time.” More details soon.

What: Earth Day Celebration

When: April 20; 10am -1pm

Where: Flowering Bridge, Lake Lure

More Info: Information on beneficial insects, invasive plants, native plants, climate change & more.

What: Father-Daughter Dance

When: April 20; 6-8pm

Where: East Rutherford Middle School gym

More Info: Sock Hop presented by Rutherford County Girl Scouts; $35/couple; deadline April 15; 704418-6450.

MAY EVENTS & BEYOND

May 2

What: History Matters

When: May 2; 5:30pm

Where: CC Library Auditorium

More Info: Memories & Medals: salute to local veterans; guest speakers: Clint Tuttle (Rutherford County Sheriff’s Dept.); Rev. Dr. Col. Max Burgin & Sgt. Major. Don Barrett, USMC; RS Central JROTC will also be present.

May 3

What: Lake Lure Farmers Market

When: May 3

Where: 2948 Memorial Hwy.,

May 4

What: 18th Annual Spring Green Bash

When: May 4; 5-9pm

Where: Green River Adventures parking lot; 111 E. Main St., Saluda

More Info: Raffle tickets: mountaintrue.org/event/2024-springgreen-bash-in-saluda-nc/ Online ticket sales end May 3. Raffle tickets can also be purchased in person at the event on May 4. You do not need to be present to win.

What: Cleanup on the Green River

When: May 4; 10am-3pm

Where: Saluda

More Info: Paddlers of all experience levels & roadside volunteers needed. Visit mountaintrue.org/ event/mountaintrue-spring-cleanon-the-green-with-co-founder-ofliquidlogic-kayaks-shane-benedictin-saluda-nc/ to register.

May 11

What: Marine Corps League Golf Tournament

May 11 & May 12

What: Lake Lure Arts and Craft Festival

When: May 11 & 12; 10am-5pm Sat.; 10am-4pm Sun.

Where: Lake Lure Town Center

May 18

What: Lake Lure Spring Classic Boat and Car Show

When: May 18; 10am-4pm

Where: Lake Lure Town Center

May 23

What: Cliffside Elementary School’s May Day

When: May 23; 5pm

Where: Cliffside school

More Info: “Looking Back - Moving Forward” theme

July 22-26

What: We Build Summer Camp for rising 4th-7th grade girls

More Info: Mr. Science, Jason Lindsey, from Hooked on Science presents free show for all ages. An extension of the annual ICC Science and Technology Expo to be held April 19 with 6th graders in Rutherford & Polk counties.

April 22

What: Earth Day Litter Sweep

When: April 22; 9am

Where: Kiwanis Park, Rutherfordton

More Info: trails@rutherfordoutdoor. org to register

April 26

What: Lake Lure Arbor Day Program

When: April 26; 11am

Where: Morse Park, Lake Lure

What: Spring Symphony Concert

When: April 28; 3pm

Where: Foundation Performing Arts Center, Isothermal Community College

More Info: Presented by The Symphony of Rutherford County.

ONGOING EVENTS

Ongoing What: Woodworkers Club

When: Every Fourth Tuesday Where: Rutherford County Annex, Rutherfordton

More Info: 919-696-6064

What: Stitch by Stitch

When: 1st Sat. monthly, 12pm

Where: Rutherford County Library, Callahan Rd., Spindale

More Info: Ages 10 and up; cross-stitch, needle point and slow stitching

What: American Legion member of Post 74 Forest City, Post 423 Henrietta or Post 437 Chimney Rock, renewed membership dues at www.legion.org. Join the American Legion, contact Jimmy 704-819-5862.

What: Learn more about Civil War/Confederacy third Friday monthly at annex in Rutherfordton. 6:30pm refreshments. 7pm meeting. William Corbitt SCV camp. teddybear93_890@yahoo. com

Volunteer Opportunities NC Guardian ad Litem Program trains child advocate volunteers to represent interests of kids in court system. www.volunteerforgal.org, 828-288-6121.

CarePartners Hospice & Palliative Care seeking volunteers. Variety of opportunities- specialized respite support, socializationcompanionship, assistance with errands, Veterans program, more. Volunteer roles designed to support staff. 828-274-9567.

What: Community Yard Sale When: May 4; 9am-1pm Where: Bills Creek Community Center; 198 Club House Rd., Lake Lure More Info: Benefits Bills Creek Community Center & Feed the Children at Lake Lure Classical Academy.

When: May 11; Tee off 1:30pm

Where: Forest City Municipal Golf Course

More Info: Proceeds to needy veterans’ fund; bbq sandwiches & plates served. Mail donations to: Marine Corps League, PO Box 1293, Forest City. $300/ team.

When: July 22-26

Where: Isothermal Community College

More Info: Presented by Rutherford Housing Partnership, Women Roofers; for more information: contact WEBUILDDAYCAMP@ gmail.com

small town friendly BIG time results

Symphony Spring concert

April 28 at the Foundation

Sunday April 28 at The Foundation Performing Arts Center at Isothermal Community College at 3 pm. The soloists were photographed at the symphony’s recent rehearsal. For tickets call 828-286-9990 or at FoundationShows.org Article

The American Legion World Series (ALWS) Executive Committee will present a college baseball game at Keeter Stadium, the home field of the ALWS, on Tuesday, April 30. The game between the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Appalachian State University Mountaineers is scheduled for 6pm with free admission.

Wake Forest Head

Wake Forest University to play

Appalachian State University in Shelby

Admission is free for the Jim Horn Tribute game

Coach Tom Walter is giving up one of the university’s home games to host the game as a tribute to the late Jim Horn. Horn, a Wake Forest graduate who played football and baseball, was a member of the college’s 1955 national championship baseball team. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 82 team that won the 1951 state championship.

Horn served as cochairman with Eddie Holbrook of the local ALWS committee from 2002 until Horn’s death in 2015,

the fifth year with Keeter Stadium as the home field for the ALWS. Jim Horn and his wife Linda were both volunteers for the ALWS from the initial work to bring the series to Shelby. Linda Horn still volunteers and spearheads the preparations for the April 30 game. “It is an honor to welcome Coach Walter and his team to Shelby again,” says ALWS Executive Committee Chairman Eddie Holbrook. “He has been a strong supporter of the ALWS for years. He is generous in

giving us a home game to celebrate Jim Horn. “Under his leadership, Wake Forest has risen to national prominence. We are fortunate to host such a powerhouse from 2023 and in 2024.”

The gates at Keeter Stadium will open at 4pm the day of the game so attendees can watch the teams in batting practice. The main concession stand will offer hot dogs and drinks. The free admission is a “thank you” to the community for its support of the ALWS.

Vocal soloists Piper Westmoreland and Peter Moore will be singing David Foster’s “The Prayer”, made famous by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli at the upcoming Symphony of Rutherford County’s concert on

Getting a driver’s license is a major rite of passage in a young person’s life. Depending on where that teenager lives, he or she is likely to secure a license between the ages of 15 and 18. The next natural step is finding a vehicle to get around town.

A teenager’s first ride may be a family car that is not used frequently by parents or a vehicle that is shared among the household. Over time, juggling usage can prove difficult, and parents and children may decide the moment has come to shop for an additional vehicle.

These guidelines can make car shopping for young drivers go smoothly.

Budget

Cost is a concern when buying a vehicle. Calculate how much the teen will be contributing and how much parents may be putting into the equation. Check with the

financing department to determine if a teen is eligible to take out a loan. If not, a loan might need to be co-signed by an adult. Insurance costs also must be considered. Certain vehicles are more expensive to insure than others, so finding one that won’t break the bank to insure is a good idea.

Safety

The automotive experts at AAA note that teenagers are among the riskiest drivers due to their inexperience, so it’s important to choose a vehicle that gets high safety marks. Features to look for include automatic emergency braking, side-crash prevention systems, lane departure, blind spot alerts, and other accident prevention

options. Midsize sedans are safe and easy enough to maneuver, and they have shorter braking distances than most SUVs. New or preowned Both new and preowned vehicles have various pros and cons. It may be difficult for a teen to afford a new car and make monthly payments,

but new cars often come with warranties and other protections. Preowned cars may not have all of the safety features of newer vehicles, but many are certified preowned, which gives buyers some peace of mind in case service work is needed. Also, parents may not be so worried about teens dinging up a used vehicle rather than one right out of the showroom.

Reliability

It may be tempting to purchase the least expensive vehicle, but price should not always be the deciding factor. Reliability should be a major consideration. Check that the vehicle (if purchasing a preowned) has not been in any major accidents that necessitated extensive repairs. Also, certain brands are known to stand the test of time better than others.

Research makes and models through Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book to determine which vehicles boast such a reputation.

These are just some of the variables to consider when helping young drivers choose their first vehicle.

Aiming Outdoorsmen

Toward Christ

By Gary Miller

NC Trapshooting and SC State Shoot in Bostic YouthTournamentFishing 2024 Clear Creek Classic

There’s nothing like the sound of a gobble at daylight. If you’re close enough, it seems that it reverberates throughout the hollows and ridges. It will truly make you wide awake like nothing else. The method most of us use to cause a tom to gobble is by using some kind of shock call. For the non-turkey hunters, a shock call is simply a loud noise that is made that causes a gobbler to react to the sound by gobbling. There are also other calls that are used like an owl hoot. I’m not totally sure but I think the turkey despises the old hoot owl so much that when they hear one, they just fuss back at it by gobbling. But whether you shock one or owl hoot or crow call, the results are the same; a turkey is located.

It seems to me the old gobbler is a cantankerous bird. When something unexpected happens, he fusses. When some other creature wants to sing out, he fusses. When something is different or interrupts his normal routine, he fusses. But what he doesn’t realize is that by his responses and reactions he lets everyone know where he is. And in turkey hunting that’s good for the hunter and not good for him. He sort of reminds me of some people I know. They are fine when everything goes their way and when everything is as it should be, and when there are no unexpected interruptions or unplanned circumstances. But when something happens out of the ordinary, they fuss and complain. It may be the clerk at the grocery store who smashes his bread or the waitress at the restaurant who gets his order wrong, but again, the results are the same. What he doesn’t realize is that by his actions he is letting everyone know where he is. He is telling the world around him that what you see might not be what you get. He is telling everyone what is really inside. I think he forgets about his own imperfections and his own mental lapses. He seems to demand more from others than he does from himself. I hope you’re not that way because the true test of Christian character is not how we act during the expected but how we react when we are shocked by the unexpected.

The South Carolina Trapshooting Association (SCTA) and the North Carolina Trapshooters Association boards of directors are hosting the 2024 South Carolina State Shoot in Bostic today through Sunday. The competition will continue Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the trapshooting show grounds in Bostic.

“The SCTA has been struggling to find a club large enough in South Carolina to host their growing shoot,” said Jim Hughes, secretary of the North Carolina Trapshooters Hall of Fame.

“After some discussion between the NC and SC boards, we agreed to host the shoot concurrent with our Hall of Fame Shoot,” Hughes said.

Hughes said early registration is strong with more than 300 people already registered.

The annual Hall of Fame dinner will be held Saturday, April 20 at 6pm.

During the dinner event, two North Carolina trapshooters will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Teri Carlton Whisnant of Rutherford County caught a foul ball at the opening day game for the Atlanta Braves. Teri said her great-nephew beside her also got a foul ball that hit his grandmother. “What are the odds of getting a ball much less, two?” she said. Teri received two opening day game tickets from her son Marty Silvers as a Christmas gift. The Braves won in the 10th inning against the Phillies.

GARY MILLER

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 21 years. He also speaks at wildgame dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. gary@outdoortruths.org

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Friends of South Mountains State Park

Piney Knob Baptist Church

1534 PINEY KNOB RD., RUTHERFORDTON, NC

Every Wednesday

What: Bible Study & Free Dinner

When: Wednesdays. Refreshments/Dinner 5pm, Bible study 6pm

Where: New Bethel AME Zion Church; 263 Forest St., Forest City

More Info: 828-429-3497.

1st Tuesday Monthly

What: Redbird Food Pantry

When: First Tuesday Every Month 3-5pm

Where: Mountain Creek Baptist Church; 710 Mountain Creek Rd., Rutherfordton

1st Saturday Monthly

What: Free Community Meal

When: First Saturday monthly; 11am-12:30pm

Where: The Well – Landrum; 395 Hwy 14 W., Landrum, SC More Info: While supply lasts. Ongoing Church Programs

April 20

What: Gospel Bluegrass Singing

When: April 20; 6pm

Where: Faith Baptist Church; Hwy. 9N, Mill Spring

More Info: Right Side from Shelby singing

What: Jesus Jam

When: April 20; 4-8pm

Where: Riverside Baptist Church; 1178 Hogan Rd., Forest City

More Info: Free event featuring Rare of Breed

April 21

What: Golden Valley Crusaders

When: April 21; 2pm

Where: Ellenboro Community Church; 306 Main St., Ellenboro

More Info: Free admission

April 27

What: 2nd Annual Outdoors Banquet

When: April 27; 5-8pm

Where: Liberty Baptist Church, Ellenboro

More Info: Free tickets, call church office 828-453-0186

What: Spring Fling

When: April 27; 2-4pm

Where: Adaville Baptist Church; 805 Oakland Rd., Spindale

More Info: Free event with inflatables, food, fun & games.

May 5

What: 1st Sunday Night Singing

When: May 5; 7pm

Where: Riverside Baptist Church; 1178 Hogan Rd., Forest City

More Info: Golden Valley Crusaders

Every Monday

What: Recovery at The Well

When: Mondays 6-9pm Where: The Well – Landrum; 395 Hwy 14 W., Landrum, SC More Info: All welcome.

Prospect Baptist Church Sun.: 9:45AM Sunday School, Worship: 11AM & 6PM. 2610 Prospect Church Rd,, Mooresboro.

Grays Chapel Church Sun.- 9:30am, 2nd Sat. monthly free brunch at 10am- special activity to be announced, Wed. Bible Study- 6pm (food & fellowship included). 500 Grays Chapel Church Rd., Rutherfordton.

Crestview Baptist Church Sun.: 9:30am Sunday School, 10:30am & 6pm Worship. Wed.: 6:30pm AWANA, Youth Bible Study, Adult Bible Study. 630 S. Church St, Forest City.

Hicks Grove Baptist Church Sundays 10am Sunday School, 11am & 6pm worship. Wed. 6pm Bible study & prayer meeting. 574 Hicks Grove Rd., Mooresboro. 828-447-6422.

April 18, 2024

Spring is a season of rejuvenation that compels millions across the globe to quit hibernating and get back to enjoying the great outdoors. Spring also marks a great time to assess a home’s exterior, namely those areas like a deck where people will spend a lot of time in the warmer months to come.

Assessing a deck after winter can be eye-opening. Harsh winter weather can take its toll on a deck, and

the following are some telltale signs that a deck could be in need of repair or replacement.

• Wobbly underfoot and in hand: Wobbly planks and railings are one sign of a deteriorating deck homeowners won’t recognize as they hide from winter weather indoors. But these tend to reveal themselves rather quickly when examining a deck after winter. Wobbly planks in the middle of the deck can be inconvenient,

A special section complied to save you time and money while improving your home’s curb appeal!

but wobbly steps and railings can be dangerous. According to the home improvement resource Angi, wobbly railings can be a byproduct of rot. A local decking professional can assess the extent of the rot in railings and elsewhere and determine the best course of action. If the rot is isolated to an area or two, a simple repair may be all that’s necessary. Extensive rot may require a full replacement of the existing deck.

lovely deck into an eyesore, and paint can fade over the winter. Thankfully, a local painter can address a faded deck and may recommend some additional strategies to safeguard the deck against fading next winter and beyond.

• Faded paint: Many homeowners paint their wood decks, and that paint will not last forever. Faded paint can turn an otherwise

• Holes in the wood: Many a homeowner has encountered curious-looking holes in their deck. This could be a sign of insect infestation. Termites, carpenter ants and carpenter bees are among the various types of insects that can bore holes through wood. Homeowners who notice holes throughout their deck are urged to call a deck professional and/or pest control firm to assess the holes and offer a solution. Though small issues may be addressed with repairs, a deck littered with holes caused by insects may need a full replacement.

made of wood, but they can still exhibit signs of rust, namely in the nails and metal connectors that hold the deck together. If screws have rusted to the point where they are no longer holding the deck together, a full-scale replacement could be in the cards, as the deck could have substantial structural damage. Like other issues that can reveal themselves during a springtime inspection of the deck, rust necessitates a thorough examination by an experienced decking professional. Many people do not use their decks during winter, which only underscores the significance of a full deck inspection in spring.

• Rust: Wood decks may be

April 18, 2024

Spring

marks the return of flowering plants and warm weather. And homeowners know that spring also ushers in the return of home renovation season.

Homeowners undoubtedly have an extensive list of projects on their to-do list this spring, and that may include helping their lawns and gardens recover after a long winter. Unpredictable weather, which can include drought and excessive rainfall and everything in between, can take its toll on a lawn. In certain instances, the best solution may be planting new grass. But homeowners can consider these tips before they begin the process of reseeding or replanting their lawns.

• Scarify the lawn. Scarifying a lawn can help to create a clean slate, but the timing must be right. Various lawn and garden experts, including those at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, recommend scarifying in spring or early autumn. But don’t jump the gun when scarifying in spring by scarifying before the lawn has started to grow after a dormant winter. Scarify when the soil is a little wet and the grass is once again actively growing. Scarfiying can remove any lingering weeds from last season and also pull up any moss that might have taken hold over the winter. Without weeds and moss to contend with, freshly planted

seeds are in better position to thrive.

• Work with a landscaping professional. Homeowners with manageable lawns can likely scarify their own lawns with a relatively inexpensive plug-in scarifier. However, scarifying can be a strenuous physical activity, particularly for homeowners with large lawns. In such instances, homeowners can benefit from working with a qualified landscaping professional. Such a professional can scarify the lawn and subsequently reseed or replant new grass. The latter task is not so simple, as the lawn care experts at Scotts® note that choosing the correct seed is a vital part of

reseeding or replanting a lawn. Choosing seed may sound simple, but it’s a potentially complex decision that requires knowledge of the existing grass, including when to plant it. Certain grasses are best planted in spring or early fall, while others are best planted in summer. A qualified landscaping professional can identify the existing grass and plan the seeding or planting around this important detail.

• Prepare to water the lawn. Watering is vital to the long-term success and health of freshly planted grass seed. Scotts® urges homeowners to keep the top inch of soil consistently moist, but not soggy. That requires a daily commitment, and setting a multi-function hose nozzle or sprinkler to the mist setting once per day or more if it’s hot outside can increase the chances grass will grow in thick and strong. Scotts® recommends keeping the top two inches of the soil moist until the new grass reaches a mowing height of roughly three inches. Once that benchmark has been reached,

watering frequency can be cut back to about twice per week, but now the soil should be deeply soaked instead of misted. The soaking will help roots grow deep into the soil. Spring is a great time for homeowners in various regions to reseed or replant their lawns. With the right approach, homeowners can enjoy a full and lush lawn throughout summer.

April 18, 2024

Tips to revitalize a garden this spring

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is indeed a notable benefit of working in a garden. But the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture notes that gardening provides a host of additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress and improve mood. With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring. As the weather warms up, consider these tips

to help bring a garden back to life.

• Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centers and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive in the months to come.

ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.

• Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems or aboveground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants begin to bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive plants of water they will need to bloom and

• Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays to protect that investment by maintaining the tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation and infection. Wellmaintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up this spring.

• Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating over the course of spring and summer. That means plants won’t have to fight with weeds for water when the temperature warms up. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer. weight. take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants

into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.

Rutherford County Transit named top system in Rural NC

Rutherford County Transit has been named the NC Rural Transit System of the Year at the NC Public Transportation Association conference. This award honors an NCPTA Transit System member that demonstrates exceptional achievement and leadership in the communities it serves for the past year. This system best represents the public transportation industry by promoting mobility, removing barriers that cause isolation, promoting economic growth while providing safe, efficient, and reliable services.

Transit System of the Year by the North Carolina Public Transportation Association (NCPTA),” said Rutherford County Manager Steve Garrison. “Their focus is truly on improving the quality of services and accessibility to county transit services for the citizens they serve and it is validating to see that the NCPTA concurs.”

“We are extremely grateful for the state recognition for the level of service we provide at Rutherford County Transit,” said Kerry Giles, transit director. “Helping our citizens get to necessary life connections drives our efforts every day. We have a great team that work tirelessly to help people live independently. Transportation doesn’t need to be a barrier for our citizens,” she said. According to statistics, Rutherford County Transit saw an increase in ridership back to new pre-COVID levels. The TriCity XPress deviated fixed route has surged to ridership of 3,197 trips in March 2023.Prepandemic ridership was around 2,000 trips per month. Transit also improvised

There were 55,439 trips in 2023 compared to 49,261 in 2022.

Total miles for 2022 were 392,990 and in 2023 miles totaled 383,791.

Rutherford County Transit received a $25,000 grant from the RHI Legacy Foundation to provide free transportation to anyone going for cancer treatments or needing a ride to the grocery store or food pantry. Food insecurity is a large issue in Rutherford County and Transit makes sure access to food is not an issue for our citizens.

Rutherford County Transit was able to partner with several organizations in 2023. One was with Grahamtown, an underserved area in the community that has an Atrium Health bus that comes each week to provide care to citizens. Transit has offered free transportation on Thursdays to Grahamtown so citizens can access healthcare and their food pantry.

Rutherford County Transit has also been promoting activities with agencies along the TriCity Xpress deviated fixed route, such as the one for the Veterans monthly Coffee and Conversation event, with increased ridership.

Heading to Nationals in Texas

The community based robotics team LYNK 9496 is heading to the World Championship. The rookie team has grown into a formidable force, placing first in district competitions and most recently in the FIRST North Carolina State robotics competition.

Alongside partners Triple Strange, Eastbots, and Mechanical Minds, the team raised the First place Blue Banner at the state championship in Greenville recently. They will participate in the World Championship FIRST Robotics competition in Houston, Texas later this year.

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Rutherford County Transit was able to work with the homeless shelter, Out of the Ashes, and Chick-Fil-A to assist an individual to get to work each day. Director Giles said this is assisting one man in moving to transitional housing, now that he has a steady income.

Rutherford County Transit was also a part of the $20 million RAISE grant that was awarded to Rutherford

County and the Towns of Rutherfordton and Spindale. This is a Federal Grant given to towns and communities for the improvement and betterment of streets to help improve access for motorists and pedestrians and to spur economic development along those streets. The plan is a major road improvement from Maple Street in Rutherfordton along Charlotte Road and through

Spindale to Oakland Road. Transit will move four of its Tri-City Xpress bus shelters to be located along this improved roadway with actual pull offs from the roadway to a bus stop with a bus shelter. This will provide a much safer boarding point and improve visibility as these four stops would be on a busy corridor between the towns.

Seeing stars at Western NC VA Health Care System

The Western North Carolina VA Health Care System is rated five stars for both overall quality and for the patient survey on CMS – Centers for Medicare Services (https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/). It is one of only two health systems in the state with that dual 5-Star rating. The other is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc., in Nags Head. The CMS website offers a tool that compares hospitals systems nationwide and uses a five-star scale to rate them. The score is based on how well a hospital performs across different areas of quality, such as treating heart attacks and pneumonia, readmission rates and safety of care. The patient survey rating measures patients’ experiences of their hospital care.

Part of the Health Care System, Charles George VA Medical Center’s Community Living Center, (CLC), in Asheville was also rated by the website. It has been rated five stars for 17 consecutive quarters.

“Veterans and their families can use this information to choose and compare facilities for their loved ones,” Stephanie Young, Western North Carolina VA Health Care System Executive Director said. “The survey star rating is based on the last three years of onsite surveys, with the greatest weight given to the most recent survey.

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“Star ratings are assigned based on how the CLC scores compare with Medicare nursing homes in the same state,” she added.

The Health Care System received the 2023 Excellence in Patient Experience, Overall Best Experience Award, which highlighted the medical center’s excellence in customer service. It previously won this award in 2018 as well.

Not only are the patients happy with the services but the employees happy to be there too. It was ranked No. 1 “Best Place to Work” in 2023.

On the nursing front, Asheville was awarded the prestigious Pathway to Excellence® designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018 and earned a redesignation in 2022. CGVAMC joins more than 200 healthcare organizations worldwide to have this distinction.

“It’s an exciting time because our redesignation as a Pathway to Excellence organization affirms the Nursing culture and the interdisciplinary culture that all of our nurses have created,” David Przestrzelski, WNCVAHCS Chief Nurse Executive, said. This designation recognizes healthcare organization’s commitment to creating a positive practice environment that empowers and engages staff.

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Teachers now have the chance to bring their dream lesson plans to life with the help of Bright Ideas education grants from Rutherford EMC. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the local electric cooperative providing grants to enhance educational experiences through creative and engaging projects. Teachers can apply online at www. ncbrightideas.com.

well over 130,000 students in Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, and Rutherford counties.

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“We’re excited to begin our 30th year of supporting students and educators with grants that fulfill needs in local classrooms. Our teachers always present some of the most unique ideas that stimulate the minds of these young children and make learning fun. As a communityfocused organization, we are committed to building a brighter future for our students, our educators, and our region. We encourage all educators with ‘bright ideas’ to submit an application,” said Dirk Burleson, General Manager of Rutherford EMC.

Rutherford EMC expects to award over $15,000 in Bright Ideas grants to local teachers during the 2024-2025 school year. Funding is available for K-12 classroom projects in all curriculum areas including art, history, math, reading, science, technology and more. Educators can apply as individuals or as a team and must include a budget, project goals, implementation plan and description of how the project will engage students and enhance their success.

Over the last 30 years, Rutherford EMC has issued more than $486,000 in grants, funding 606 creative projects that have benefited

The Bright Ideas education grant program is a shared initiative of all 26 electric co-ops in North Carolina. Collectively, Rutherford EMC and North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have awarded nearly $16 million in grants, supporting more than 14,700 projects benefiting close to four million students statewide. Get your application in today and let’s work together to building a brighter future through educational experiences! Rutherford EMC, headquartered in Forest City, is a rural electric cooperative that maintains over 7,500 miles of power lines to provide electricity to over 73,500 connected member-consumers in a 10-county area of the southwestern Piedmont.

Lake Lure Music Festival 2024 Summer concert announced

Lake Lure Music Festival’s “An Evening of Bluegrass & More” with Sister Sadie Band has been announced. The evening of live music will be Saturday, June 8 at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure. This multiple International Bluegrass Music Award-winning band/Grammy-nominated band promises to present a great evening of music. North Carolina based duo Walter Finley and April Dawn will open the concert on the Pavilion stage. Premium “Meet and Greet” Backstage Experience Tickets are available on a limited basis to meet the Sister Sadie band prior to the concert. Special perks include complimentary light fare and one drink backstage. Backstage live music with Walter Finley & April Dawn. The meet and greet experience is from 5 to 5:45pm.

There are general admission lawn seating tickets: Adult

and Children 12-andunder lawn seating. Bring a beach chair and enjoy the concert on the lawn at beautiful Rumbling Bald right on Lake Lure.

General Admission

Ticket Parking opens at 5:15pm. Parking available for General Admission Lawn Seating ticket holders on the Rumbling Bald driving range.

Food and beverage available for purchase pre-concert and during the performance.

Each year the Lake Lure Music Festival makes a generous donation from its ticket sales and support to the Lake Lure Classical Academy. In 2023, in addition to a $10,000 donation to LLCA, the Festival donated $5000 to the Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach to help LLCA children and their families who have food insecurity. For more information go to lakeluremusicfestival.com

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Washburn closed this week; reopens April

Obituaries Obituaries

James “Jim” Everette Webb, Jr.

James “Jim” Everette Webb, Jr., age 73, of Forest City, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024.

Jim was born June 7, 1950, in Rutherford County to James Everette Webb, Sr. and Mavis Roberson Webb. He worked as a rental store manager for many years and was an avid golfer. He is survived by his wife, Pamela Batten Webb. No formal services will be conducted.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Aileen “Tootsie” Conyers

Aileen “Tootsie” Parton

Conyers, age 91, of Forest City passed away Monday April 8, 2024.

She was a native of Rutherford County, retired from Bell South and was a member of Full Gospel Revival Church.

Those preceding her in death include her husband Fred Conyers, parents Terrill

Fred Parton and Cordie Head Parton, brother Junior Parton, half-sister Barbara

Bates and niece Amy Berry. Those left to cherish her memory include nieces Linc McDaniel and Avis Parton; nephew Lane Parton and special niece Angie Holler (Bob).

Services were held April 13 at Crowe’s Mortuary with Rev. Chad Sisk officiating.

Memorials may be made to Full Gospel Revival Church 4799 US 64-74 Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Beverly M. Ballard

Beverly M. Ballard, age 66, of Henrietta, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024. Beverly was born May 22, 1957, in Pennsylvania to the late Thomas and Lois McDermott. She was a graduate of Lackey High School in La Platta, MD. She worked as a sales manager for Gibson Greetings and as a merchandiser for Driveline Retail for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 33years, George Edward Ballard.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Shawn Ballard (Pamela Phillips) of Henrietta; brother, Mark McDermott of Bryans Road, MD and two sisters, Brenda, and Jill, eight grandchildren. There will be a private celebration of Beverly’s life for family and friends.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

In his letter to the church at Ephesus, the Apostle Paul wrote that he is praying for each believer to be filled with all the fullness of God. So, what does it mean to “be filled with all the fullness of God?” Paul explains this in detail in the last few verses of chapter three. He starts by encouraging them to surrender to Christ’s working in their hearts and minds. The Christian life must be lived with a mindset of Christ-centeredness. He alone must be our focal point and “True North.”

As a person yields to Christ, they will experience the foundational nourishment of God-given love. God’s love is generously given to all believers and is life’s ultimate motivation for all we say and do. Living a life of love for God and love for others will help us live a God honoring life. We will in turn become a fruit-bearing Christian whose

Tamera Poteat Luckadoo

Tamera Poteat Luckadoo, age 62; passed away Friday, April 5, 2024.

A native of Rutherford County, she was a former employee of Spindale Mills.

Tamera was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Otis Poteat and her husband James Ronald Luckadoo.

She is survived by her mother, Gloria Doster Edwards, one daughter, Donna Militello, one brother, Steve Poteat, three sisters, Leesa Hilty, Andria Horn and Brandi Poteat, four grandchildren.

A celebration of Tamera’s life was held April 15 at Crowe’s Funeral Chapel.

Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.

Faye Henson

Faye Griffin Henson, age 78, passed away Saturday April 6, 2024.

Faye was a native of Rutherford County, the daughter of the late Forrest and Lee Womack Griffin and sister of the late Margaret Turner.

After graduating from R.S. Central High

School and Gardner Webb University, Faye began a career at Rutherford County Department of Social Services. Spindale United Methodist Church played a vital role in her life.

In addition to her husband Wayne, there is left to cherish her memory her daughter Jennifer Wojton (Andrew) and two grandchildren; siblings Ginger (Steve) Ruppe and Reid Griffin (Shirley), numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Faye’s life was held April 12 at Spindale United Methodist Church with Rev. Eric Marshburn officiating.

The family respectfully asks that memorials be made to Spindale United Methodist Church PO Box 241 Spindale, NC 28160 or to your favorite charity.

Jerry Champion

Jerry Champion, age 66, of Forest City, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024.

Jerry was born August 25, 1957, in Rutherford County to the late Ace Champion and Bardee Hensley Champion. He was a graduate of R-S Central High School, class of 1976. Jerry worked as a machine operator for PPG Industries for 42 years before retirement. He most recently worked for Everest Security. He attended Gilkey Church of God.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in

death by a daughter, Jessica Champion Sandlin.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 48 years, Helen Champion; daughter, Cynthia Champion Calhoun (Sidney) of Mooresboro; son, Ace Jerry Champion (Sarah) of Myrtle Beach, SC; sister, Mary Denise Champion of Forest City; two granddaughters, one niece, and a great nephew and great niece.

The funeral was held April 15 at Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Sidney Calhoun, and Brother Ronnie Jeffords officiating.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Patricia Ann Herron

Patricia Ann “Patsy” Herron, 77 of Forest City passed away April 11, 2024.

She was the daughter of the late Archie Herron and Verda Dale Herron.

Patricia was a member of Crestview Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents Patricia was preceded in death by her sister, Charlotte Butler and a brother, Ricky Herron.

Left to cherish her memory are a brother Rev. Arthur Herron and a number of nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service was held April 14 at Crowe’s Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kevin Rohm and Rev.

Arthur Herron officiating. Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.

Mary Helen Murray

Mary Helen Murray, age 79 of Bostic, died Thursday, April 11, 2024.

Helen was born December 26, 1944, in Rutherford County and was a daughter of the late Oscar Chapman, Sr., and Pauline Queen Chapman. She worked at Crelin Plastics where she retired.

She was a member of Bostic Missionary Methodist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Oscar Chapman, Jr., and sisters, Ruth Shook and Frances Shehan.

Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Glenn Murray, her son, Marshall Murray and wife Paula of Golden Valley, her daughter, Tammy Murray of Raleigh, her sister, Shirley Toney and husband Foy of Sunshine, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren.

The family will hold a private graveside service at Bostic Missionary Methodist Church Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Kenneth Kanipe.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www. padgettking.com

life will impact those who cross our path. Lastly, we must be willing to admit that in our own selves we do not have the strength or ability to achieve the fullness of God. Everything we are and have as God’s child is supplied by the grace of God. Humility is the prerequisite for allowing the grace of God to freely flow in us. It is what Paul meant when he said, “But by the grace of God, I am what I am.” A life that is filled with all the fullness of God, is a life which is yielded to God’s will and lived in total dependence on him. It truly is the most blessed life a person can live, this side of heaven.

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

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.

Obituaries Obituaries

Helen Sain Franklin

Helen Sain Franklin passed away Friday, April 12, 2024. She was 96.

She was the daughter of Arthur and Dinah Clark Sain of Mill Spring, NC, and the wife of Grady Franklin Sr., of Cliffside.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Alonzo Sain, Curtis Sain, Leroy Sain, Bevie Sain Hicks and Hattie Belle Sain Conner.

She is survived by three children, Grady Franklin, Jr., Christine Franklin and husband Dale Green, and Mark Franklin and wife Cathy Franklin; five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren.

She graduated from Mill Spring High School in 1943. She married the 23-year-old soldier who would be her husband for 78 years, until his death on Jan. 27, 2023. Together they founded and owned Grady Franklin Company, a seed and fertilizer business. They later established G&H Farms for raising beef cattle. She was devoted to her church where she served as an elder.

A funeral was held April 17 at First Presbyterian Church, Forest City. In lieu of flowers,

memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church. PO Box 181, Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www. padgettking.com. Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.

Martha Sue Byars

Martha Sue Byars, age 77, of Mooresboro, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Martha was born March 31, 1947, in Rutherford County to the late John Allen Byars and Allie Mae Campbell Byars. She worked for Cone Mills for several years. Martha was as charter member of Victory Baptist Church in Ellenboro.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Ann Causby (Rev. Lee Causby), Ruby Bridges, Gladys Liverette and a brother, David Byars.

Left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Louise Wilson (Perry) of Forest City, Donald Byars (Debbie) of Mooresboro, Sandra Bailey of Ellenboro, Michael Byars (Debbie) of Shelby; brother-in-law, Howard Bridges

of Forest City; sister-in-law, Barbara Byars of Cliffside and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

The funeral was held April 18 at Victory Baptist Church with Rev. Johnny McCarty and Rev. Jerry Causby officiating.

Memorial donations requested to Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043. Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Radonna Aileen Gorman

Radonna Aileen Gorman, Age 72, passed away December 23, 2023. Radonna was survived by her daughter Kimberly Talbot and two grandchildren Lukas Talbot and Johnathon Talbot, her sisterin-law Paula Gorman, her brother Byron Gorman and sisters Phyllis Sicona and Joyce Kellogg and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Robert Long, parents James Whitley Gorman and Mary Juarita Flower Gorman. As well as her sister Barbara Jean Gorman and brother James Whitley Gorman, Jr.

Head and Neck Cancer Awareness: Physician Warns of Potential Risk of Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol Use

April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. Oral head and neck cancer constitute nearly 4% of all cancers in the United States. These cancers occur in the mouth and throat, as well as in the thyroid gland, salivary glands and exposed skin of the face and neck.

The primary symptoms of head and neck cancer can include a lump in the neck, persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes and red or white lesions in the mouth. Testing and screenings are available if you have any of these symptoms as these symptoms can also be caused by less serious conditions. However, there are multiple treatment options available at Mission for those who are diagnosed with one of these cancers.

additional providers and medical staff.

There are various causes of head and neck cancer, with the leading causes being alcohol and tobacco use.

Recently, Mission Health partnered with another HCA Healthcare division to open Head and Neck Specialists of Western North Carolina. This team of experts specializes in complex head and neck cancers and expands cancer services at Mission Hospital. Previously, Western North Carolina residents with this unique and complex disease had to travel to a larger city to get specialty care.

Dr. Paul

The multidisciplinary team at Mission provides care for benign and malignant tumors in the head and neck region. The practice has a team of two Otolaryngologists, Dr. Paul Davis and

“We know from extensive research that oral head and neck cancers can be caused by tobacco use and drinking in excess,” says Dr. Paul Davis. “We urge patients to be seen quickly if they experience concerning symptoms so that the cancer can be identified early. Detecting cancer early gives the best chance for a full recovery.”

Lifestyle modifications with regard to tobacco and alcohol use can significantly reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancer.

“I’ve never been the doctor that tells a patient what to do,” says Davis. “I believe my job is to educate and give the patient all of their options when treating them.”

Historically, Western North Carolina has not had specialists or treatment options for patients with these types of cancers. With the arrival last year of Drs. Davis and Dennis, they are now seeing patients that are being treated for complex head and neck cancers without the hassle of having to travel to larger cities or even out of state.

If you or a loved one would like to make an appointment, please contact Head and Neck Specialists at 828-213-2510

City of KM and KM Gateway Trail host Earth Day Celebration April 20

The City of Kings Mountain in partnership with the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail will celebrate the 54th Anniversary of Earth Day by hosting an Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Free activities will be provided by various community organizations and vendors.

Dino Encounters by Ross plans to bring some very cool dinosaur friends and fossils to the event. Woody the Owl will be there too.

Other attractions will include Son Ridge Farms’ Petting Zoo, Woodworking, Live Encampments, Upcycle Artisans, a Music Jamboree presented by The Dancing Fleas, and a live performance by Bright Star Touring Theatre called Gus Goes Green.

The Butterfly Release is by far a crowd favorite! Make plans to help release 300 Painted Lady butterflies back

into their natural habitat. This activity supports the national and environmental cause to save our pollinators.

Extra parking is across the street from the trailhead and along Quarry Road. Come out, celebrate our beautiful earth, and enjoy a walk on the trail! This special event will begin at 11:00 am.

The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail is located at 807 South Battleground Avenue. For more information on Earth Day, contact the City of Kings Mountain’s Marketing, Tourism, and Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www. KingsMountainEvents.Com.

Dr. Steven Dennis

Davis

The Dancing Fleas will perform at Earth Day on Saturday, April 20. (Photos by City of Kings Mountain)

Lots of fun activities for the kids.

Bright Star Touring Theatre will bring a live performance called Gus Goes Green.

Dino Encounters by Ross will bring dinosaur friends and fossiles

By: Jean Gordon

Ever had one of those days when you know the time an important meeting is to begin and yet you wait until the last minute to get there? That happened to me last week. With a meeting scheduled at 2pm in downtown Forest City, I was at the Rutherford Weekly office finishing up some things before the meeting was to start.

Although the meeting was near me, I still waited until the last second and then knew I had to jump in my car.

Receiving an email a few weeks before and a couple reminders of the new meeting place, I knew in my heart of hearts exactly where the meeting was to be.

I dashed to my car, parked and ran into the building where I knew the meeting was about to take place.

One gentleman was in his office. I told him I was looking for the

endowment committee meeting on the third floor and he immediately said he didn’t believe there would be a meeting there.

He directed me to another door, anyway, and in front of me was what I hoped was an elevator. To my right was a steep winding staircase. My knees didn’t feel much like a winding staircase, so I opted to find the third floor via elevator.

This is an old building with an outdated elevator. The entrance to the elevator was a steel frame resembling an old fashioned jail cell that one must open and close manually.

Stepping into the elevator, I wasn’t really scared, because I noticed a telephone on the wall and I had my cell phone, so pressing the button “3” I headed to the third floor. Riding up three stories a person recognizes the elevator shaft. That reminded me of a time I covered the installation of a new elevator in Chimney Rock Park. I was asked if I wanted to ride the elevator as it was in the early stages of installation. I did. Here I was, a young reporter on top of an elevator inside a mountain headed for the top. What was I thinking?

shopperShelby & info

WHEN FINDING A MEETING IS A CHALLENGE

Back to last week.

After I arrived on the third floor, I understood what the gentleman was talking about. There was not an office large enough for the meeting and the offices had been vacant a long time.

I made my way back to the elevator, carefully pressing the button to “2” thinking I’d misunderstood the directions. Same story, slowly making my way into the elevator and down to the second floor.

Closing the steel gate, I couldn’t help but think, what would happen if it stopped right there in the middle of nowhere.

Stopping on the second floor, there was no meeting taking place anywhere. I had clearly gone to the wrong building.

I drove to a couple of insurance offices downtown all in one story buildings.

Where is my meeting?

After all this time, I did the only sensible thing. I rechecked the email. Of course, I was in the wrong building on the wrong floor. I arrived late and made my way to the second floor, not the third, took a deep breath and stopped shaking.

Before me sat a group of people already engaged in the meeting. I

apologized for being late, settled in my seat and for a brief moment literally grateful, I’d made it to

VA announces program to help 40,000+ Veterans stay in their homes

On May 31, 2024, the Department of Veterans Affairs will launch a new program — the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program — to help more than 40,000 Veterans experiencing severe financial hardship avoid foreclosure and stay in their homes.

VASP is a new, last-resort tool in VA’s comprehensive suite of home retention options for eligible Veterans, activeduty Service members, and surviving spouses with VA-guaranteed home loans who are experiencing severe financial hardship.

Through VASP, VA will purchase defaulted VA loans from mortgage servicers, modify the loans, and then place them in the VA-owned portfolio as direct loans. This will empower VA to work directly with eligible Veterans to adjust their loans — and their monthly payments — so they can keep their homes. With VASP, these borrowers will have a fixed 2.5% interest rate, which will provide a consistent, affordable payment for the remainder of their loan.

Over the past several months, VA has strongly encouraged a foreclosure

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

moratorium through May 31, 2024, extended its COVID-19 modification program through May 31, 2024, and worked with Veterans directly to help them retain their homes. In total, VA helped more than 145,000 Veterans and their families avoid foreclosure in 2023 alone.

“This new program will help more than 40,000 Veterans and their families stay in their homes, and there’s nothing more important than that,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “We at VA are committed to doing everything in our power to help Veterans avoid foreclosure, and that’s exactly why we’re launching VASP – to help the Veterans who need it most.”

“When a Veteran falls on hard times, we work with them and their loan servicers every step of the way to help prevent foreclosure — including offering repayment plans, loan modifications, and more,” said Under Secretary for Benefits Josh Jacobs. “But some Veterans still need additional support after those steps, and that’s what VASP is all about. This program will help ensure that when a Veteran goes into default, there is an additional affordable payment option that will work in a higher interest rate environment — so they can keep their homes.”

Veterans will not apply directly for VASP. Instead, beginning May

31, mortgage servicers will identify qualified borrowers and submit requests on behalf of Veterans based on a review of all home retention options available and qualifying criteria. Veterans facing financial hardship should work with their mortgage servicers to explore available options.

VA anticipates that VASP will result in a government subsidy spending reduction of approximately $1.5 billion from 2024 to 2033, making it beneficial for Veterans, taxpayers, servicers, and loan holders alike. This

is because the savings associated with avoiding foreclosures outweighs the cost of purchasing these homes. VA has existing authority to establish and implement VASP under 38 U.S.C. § 3732 and § 3720.

VA is proud to help Veterans get access to — and retain — the homes they deserve by guarantying home loans with no down payment requirements and competitively low interest rates. In total, VA has helped Veterans, service members, and survivors obtain more than 28 million homes.

Currently, more than 3.7 million Veterans have active home loans guaranteed by VA, and VA guaranteed 400,695 home loans in 2023 alone.

Veterans who are having difficulty reaching a resolution with their mortgage servicer can contact VA at 877-8273702, option 4. Learn more about the policy and the VASP program. For more information on VA home loans, visit the VA home loans website.

Article Provided By: US Department of Veterans Affairs

Properly prepare to donate blood and help save lives

Healthy individuals are needed every day to maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in need. Once a donor has made the commitment to give blood, it is important to take a few simple steps to prepare and help ensure a good donation experience.

The community is invited to help save lives by donating blood at the following locations in April:

• Friday, April 19, 12PM–5:30PM

First Baptist Church of Forest City, Fellowship Hall; 211 W. Main St., Forest City

• Saturday, April 20, 9AM–2PM

Cliffside Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall; 220 Old Main St., Cliffside

• Friday, April 26, 1–6PM

Big Springs Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall 534 Big Springs Baptist Church Rd., Ellenboro

• Friday, April 26, 10AM–3PM

2nd Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall; 191 Green St., Rutherfordton

Get a good night’s sleep, drink an extra 16 ounces of water, eat iron-rich foods to maintain a healthy iron level and consume a low-fat meal

before donating.

Donating blood is an easy way to help others and only takes about an hour. The Red Cross encourages donors to give blood every time they are eligible.

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-733-2767 or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass® online health history questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Article Provided By: Gail Barksdale

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WANTED: SOMEONE TO CUT GRASS. 828-289-0997.

TOY SHOW & COLLECTIBLES. Saturday, Aprililil 20, 2024 at Old Mooresboro School Gym, 308 Main Street, Mooresboro, NC 28114, 9:00AM3:00PM. Admission $5, Under 10 FREE . $30 Set Up Fee $30, limit of 3 tables. Bring your own tables. Setup time 7:00AM9:00AM. CASH ONLY! For Questions Call Keith at 828351-8822 (6pm-8pm) or David at 704-692-7702.

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

CORNERSTONE CHURCH OF GOD. 202 Margrace Rd, Kings Mountain, NC. We start in the Bible, we stay in the Bible and we finish in the Bible. We believe Jesus is coming soon. Come visit Sunday morning-10:30 am, Sunday evening-6 PM.

HOMETOWN SHELBY SHOPS. Click on www.nc4ever.com/ and enter the Hometown Shelby Shops at the Online Mall Plus NC4Ever@USA. com

TRUMP SHOPS. Click On www.nc4ever.com/trump. html to visit TRUMP Shop. NC4Ever@USA.com

EMPLOYMENT

PART-TIME MINISTER OF MUSIC. Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Forest City, NC is seeking a part-time Minister of Music. Send resume to mountvernonforestcity@ gmail.com or mail to 2676 Hudlow Road, Forest City, NC 28043 (828) 286-9294 mountvernonforestcity@gmail.com

HIRING Person 1st LLC is hiring for Direct Support Professional/Community Living and Support. If you are a positive person and enjoy making a difference in the lives of persons with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, come and join our team. As a one-on-one support staff, you will be providing services in the home and community to help persons served reach beyond their limits! Please contact Eddie Scruggs, Executive Director for further details. 704-6926974. (704) 692-6974

OFFICE ASSISTANCE NEEDED. Must be able to work well with public, accounting knowledge and utility billing a plus. Part time, 35 hours week. Pay D.O.E. Send resume & 3 references to Town Of Ellenboro Attn: Town Clerk PO Box 456 Ellenboro NC 28040.

CASH. Seeking people for yard and greenhouse work and planting trees. Cash. Lawndale 704-300-4530.

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING LANDSCAPERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

HIRING. Looking for full time maintenance worker on rental properties. Must have valid driver license. Apply in person at 1025 County Home Road Shelby NC.

BUSINESS SERVICES

FOR REASONABLE RATE

LAWN SERVICE. Call (704) 472-4737

HANDYMAN SERVICES.

NOW IS THE TIME. Over 25 years Exp! Install Replace Hot water Heaters, Mulching, Trees and Bushes trimmed, Minor Repairs, Ceiling Fans, Mini Blind Installation, Any Handyman Services. No Job too Big or Small! References available. We will show up and do the job. Call us first, 704-692-4449.

ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & Reliable! (704) 300-2332

FULL-LINE TACK & REPAIR

SHOP: New wagon horse harness & saddle repaired, cleaned, oiled, come see J.D. at 591 Short Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040. Closed Sunday & Thursday.

HOME REMODELING. Interior and exterior remodeling. Call today for your free estimate! (828) 244-7087 charliejohnston32@gmail.com

CONCRETE WORKS. Driveways, Patios, Garage slabs, Concrete repairs and removable. Bobcat work also available. 828-716-0510.

TONEY’S PLUMBING REPAIR. Tub, faucet installation, kitchen lavatory installation, hot water heater repair/replace, drain clean. All work guaranteed. 828-429-5035.

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.

BLANTON’S

BUSINESS SERVICES

HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097

RETIRED VETERAN. Reasonable Lawn Care. Mowing, trimming, blowing, pressure washing. Low rates. Call 704297-6540

CONCRETE REMOVAL, JUNK REMOVAL, demolition, retaining walls, pavers and grading. 828-453-8113.

WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Reasonable rates. Call or text me at (704) 419-9016

GEM HOUSEKEEPING OF NC

Call us for a free estimate on our residential and business cleaning services! We have appointments available! Call or text (980) 295-8032 graycee2001@icloud.com

PAINTING SERVICES. Over 25 years experience, affordable prices. Professional results. References available. Free estimates. Charles, or leave message. (704) 435-8062.

D&S LAWN CARE. COMPLETE LAWN CARE SERVICES. RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES. ACCEPTING NEW CUSTOMERS! MOWING, TRIMMING, MULCH, DEBRIS REMOVAL, FLOWER BEDS. RUTHERFORD & POLK COUNTY. 828582-0314.

CAMERA VIDEO AUDIO TV INSTALLATION. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO INSTALL HOME SECURITY CAMERAS? OR AUDIO/VIDEO/TV MOUNTS. CALL FOR AN ESTIMATE TODAY AT 704-466-2333. (704) 466-2333

THE CONTRACTOR. Painting, roofing, tile floors, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Ask for Jim 828-4297511.

AUCTIONS

SPRING CONSIGNMENT

AUCTION Onsite and Online Saturday, April 20th, 2024 - 10 am Preview: Friday, April 19th, 202410 till 6 pm Location: 145 Kirks Drive Hot Springs, NC 28743 www.ej-auction.com

Partial Listing: 20’ Shipping Containers, Tractors, Cattle Gates, Boat, Trucks, Implements and more EDWARD JOHNSON AUCTIONEERS, INC NC8134 NC8496 (828) 593-9649

AUCTIONS

AUCTION ONLINE. Wood Shop, Machine Shop, Lawn & Garden Lots start closing Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024 - 6 pm WWW.EJ-AUCTION.COM Location: Hot Springs, NC 28743 Partial Listing: John Deere Riding Mower X360, John Deere Riding Mower X324, Weed eaters, Fencing, Stihl Chainsaw, Pole Saw, Pitchfork, Shovels, Chains, Lopping Shears, Jack Stands, Sprayers, Cleaning Supplies, Pressure Washer, Battery Charger, Sand Blaster, Floor Jack, Arbor Press, Vice, Anvil, Pipe Vice, Grinder, Hydraulic Jack, Many Organizers/ Bins with hardware and bolts, Hand Carving Tools, Punches, Finishing Tools, Electrical Meters, Drill Bits, Torches, Welders, Antique Tools, Hand Tools, Tap and Die Sets, Protractors, Toolboxes, Sandpaper, Grinding Wheels, Grinder, Horizontal Band Saw, Table Saw, Shop Fox W1702, Belt Sander, Large Press, Chain Fall, Straps, Ratchets, Sockets, Stands, Air Tools, Antique Chairs and More! EDWARD JOHNSON AUCTIONEERS, INC NC8134 NC8496 (828) 593-9649

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

CORNERSTONE CHURCH OF GOD. 202 Margrace Rd. We start in the Bible, we stay in the Bible and we finish in the Bible. We believe Jesus is coming soon. Come visit Sunday morning, 10:30 am, Sunday evening, 6 PM. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

COME AND SHOP WITH US! Sat, April 20th, 7 am-1 pm. Something for everyone. 702 Wilson Cornwell Rd, Shelby, NC 28150

YARD AND ESTATE SALE. Sat April 20th, 2024 from 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM. Furniture, plus size women’s casual and formal clothing, beautiful home decor items, books. 148 North Shore Drive, Cherryville, NC 28021

YARD SALE, APRIL 20th, 8:30AM-until. No early birds! Men’s, women’s,and children’s clothing, odds & ends, etc. 4501 E Dixon Blvd., Shelby, NC 28152

BIG THREE FAMILY YARD SALE. Sat April 20th, 2024 from 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM. 1961 CREEK RIDGE ROAD, SHELBY, NC 28152. TWO STORAGE SHEDS - CLEANING OUT! NOT JUNK! FURNITURE, COLLECTIBLES, HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, WOMEN’S AND MEN’S BRAND NAME CLOTHING. PARK ON DRIVEWAY NOT ON GRASS. HENDR75@AOL.COM

HUGE FAMILY ESTATE SALE! Fri April 19th, 2024 from 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Sat April 20th, 2024 from 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. 1351 Lithia Springs Road, Shelby, NC 28150

MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE

SALE. April 20th 7:30AM12:30 PM. 606 Wilson Cornwell Road, Shelby, NC. Baby and children’s furniture, clothes, toys, and other items. Household furniture and items, collectIbles, and more!

YARD SALE. April 20th, 8:30AM-until. No early birds! Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, odds & ends, etc. 4501 E Dixon Blvd, Shelby, NC 28152

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

4 FAMILY YARD SALE. Fri., April 19th, 3:00pm-7:00pm; Sat., April 20th, 7:00AM12:00PM, 1008 Old Boiling Springs Road, Shelby, NC 28152. NO EARLY BIRDS! Plus size clothing, large men’s clothing, toddler toys and clothing, household items, retro items, and some antiques.

MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE. Sat., April 20, 2024, 8am-1pm. Everything must go! Women & childrens clothes $1-$3 and household items. 1849 Stony Point Rd., Shelby, NC 28150

LINCOLN COUNTY

YARD SALE. April 20th 8:00AM-3:00PM. 8400 Reeps Grove Church Road, Vale NC 28168. Rain Date April 27th. Beds, tools, hardware, lumber, elecrtical, plumbing, ATV, camper, crafts, linens, antique furniture and toys, adult and children’s clothing, house ware, dishes, curtains, avon, glass door, metal sink, etc. Vale, NC 28168

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

ESTATE SALE. Friday, April 19, 9:00-3:00 and Saturday, April 20, 9:00-3:00. Beautifully restored 1969 Zenith Radio – Southington Fine China (Made in Poland) – Cochrane Furniture (Lincolnton, NC), light-up entertainment center, a Gandy (made in Macon, GA) 9ft. Pool Table, Pub Table & Barstools – gaming table –signed football by John Elway, sports memorabilia – LOTS OF TOOLS, plumbing tools, plumbing parts, Craftsman Toolbox, air compressor, rocking chairs, tables, TV’s, lamps, Refrigerator, washer, kitchen dishes, glassware, lots of knick-knacks, collectibles and MORE! 1920 Big Island Road, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

ANNUAL RUTHERFORDTON

KIWANIS CHARITY AUCTION. Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 9AM-5PM. See the Kiwanis ad in this paper for more information. 230 North Cleghorn Street, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

ANTIQUES

CHURCH PEWS, 26 CUSHIONED PEWS- approx. 11’ long each. 14 white and brown, 12 solid brown. Pickup in Union, SC. (864) 762-8415 calistawoodson@gmail.com

FIREWOOD. Firewood $70 1/4 cord 90% oak. Bundles $4 each. Oak Tomato stakes, $2 each. (704) 435-3970

SHIPPING CRATE $35.00. Wood shipping crates for sale with some lids. 3 different sizes. I can send pictures.I have a few smaller crates ideal for planter. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair

NEW PREDATOR 15HP MOTOR, never had oil, $700. Rear-tine tiller, like new $700. Riding mower, 10hrs., $1,000. 1972 Dunebuggy $8,000. 828305-4941.

Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

FOR SALE

CARPORTS, GARAGES, BOAT, RV COVER HAY BARNS, Etc. “Check Out Our Price Before You Buy... There Is Difference!” J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 245-5895

STORAGE BUILDINGS

WOOD OR METAL. New, Used, Repo. New Buildings from $3756.00. Inventory changes weekly! J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

MEN’S NEW CRUISER BIKE. Men’s used bicycle. $75 for both. 828-782-7221.

TRAILERS NEW5X10 WITH GATE $1395. Areas Largest Trailer Inventory, Equipment, Dumps, Landscape, Enclosed, Gooseneck “New & Used”. Best Cash Deals Around, Credit Cards, Financing, Rent to Own, No Credit Check Available. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City. (828) 245-5895 METAL ROOFING FOR SALE

INSTOCK! Deliveries Twice A

Week. One Piece or the Whole Roof. J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 245-5895

NEW-USED TRAILERS PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR ALL TYPES OF TRAILERS. 1500 Square Feet

FEW BUTTS ABOUT IT. $450 La-z-Boy couch with two reclining chairs.Rarely Used! Set will be great in home or rental. (704) 300-7164

FORD RANGER MOTORS AND TRANSMISSIONS Ford Fusion motors and transmissions. $200 and up. (828) 2873820

1996 KAWASAKI VULCAN

PETS & LIVESTOCK

AKC CANE CORSO. Registered AKC Cane Corso puppies. Shots up to date, ready to go. $1000. (704) 974-2716

ADORABLE PUPPY. Mixed breed puppy, 19 weeks. Spayed, all shots, very friendly and energetic. Free to a good home. 984-328-2637

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CAMPERS

1500 MOTORCYCLE. 34,000 miles, $1,500. Precision Tool & Die vices with other tooling, $1,500. 704-750-4133. TREK BIKES FOR SALE. 2022 Women’s and Men’s Trek Bikes for Sale. $500 each or $900 for both. Call 704-418-9331. BUILDING. 12 x 16 Building, wired with outlets and lights. One

SHIH POO & YORKIE PUPPIES Shih Poo reduced $600, Ready now. UTD. Yorkie, registered, Vet examined, genetic health guarantee $1500. Excellent references. Text 980-4226901 (980) 422-6901 thinking12341234@yahoo.com

PUPPIES 4 Sabel AKC. Registered German Shepard puppies. $600 each call for info. (864) 490-3579

AKC DOBERMAN PINSCHERS. European bloodline, tails docked, dew claws removed, health guarantee, full registration, born 3/11/2024. $2000. Also have Facebook, Melissa’s Gorgeous Dobies. Taking deposits now. Call 252360-9827 to schedule time to visit pups & the fam. (252) 3609827 melissaongaro@yahoo. com

BOXER PUPPIES. CKC registered 7 week old Boxer Puppies. Shots & worming. Some Fawn and white, some brindle and white. $300 each 704-7663135

DOG KENNELS. 5X10X6, 10x10x4, 10x10x6, 10x20x6. Single Kennel, Double Kennel or Triple Kennel. Dog Houses. Rain Tops Available. “Pickup or Delivery Available.” J. Johnson Sales, Forest City (828) 2455895

CKC GERMAN SHEPHERD

PUPPIES for sale. These 2 sweet little girls are looking for their forever homes. Vet checked and ready to go Aprilil 16th. Asking $500 each. (704) 734-7088 joelovestina1@gmail. com

Front

loader. less than 200 hrs. $22,000. 704-616-0309.

4 FT. DISC HARROW $300. Cultivator $250. Stone walk-behind vibratory plate tamp. $175. OLD chain-link fence, 150 ft. $75. 828-289-1817.

MINI DOODLE PUPS REPUTABLE BREEDER. Shih Tzu Doodle puppies, under 10lb grown. Breeder of merit, vet tech trainer for 35+ years. Call, text or email 864-623-8803. (801) 696-3262 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail.com

FERTILE EGGS. Ready for hatching. Have large breed and Bantams! $3/dozen. Also, 1 rooster and 3 hens. $20 each. All for $70. 704-473-1311. PUPPIES FOR SALE. Chihuahua Puppies, 2 female, 1 male, $500. Call or text 704418-9244.

AKC REGISTERED LAB PUPS. 8 male, 3 females. Chocolate & black. $500 each. Taking deposits now. Ready for new home April 15th. 704-6921627 or 704-842-4436.

KOI FISH FOR SALE. All colors; short and long fin; 4”-5” $5. Each; larger $10. each. (864) 546-2778 brendasherman9@ gmail.com

LITTER OF TOY SHIH-POO/ MALTESE. 2 little teacup Malti- Poo, 9 weeks. Adult male Yorkie-Poo, 5 lbs or under, neutered. 2 year old male toy CKC reg. Poodle, neutered. Lab mix / Squirrel Feist. 1 year old male, neutered. All are Vet check & shots UTD & wormed. Call for info for prices, colors etc. (828) 391-0919

CARS & TRUCKS

1995 TOYOTA COROLLA Wagon DX, 101Kmi., white, very good condition, looks / runs good, new tires & battery, all power, A/C. $4190. 828-2891817.

VEHICLES FOR SALE. 1998

F150 Truck 130k miles. 50th Anniversary. 2004 Laredo Jeep. Call for information. 704308-4938.

CAMPERS

2022 JAYCO PINNACLE, 36FBTS, $89,500. Excellent like new condition. This luxurious 5th wheel is ready to go home with you! Equipped for full-time living, this Jayco Pinnacle offers details such as maple cabinetry, residential sized appliances w/island and pantry. The cabinetry is done in the super popular Modern Farmhouse w lighted pendants, low lighting and highlighting, too! With 1-1/2 baths, you will enjoy vessel sinks, cedar lined walkin closet, teak wood shower bench and built in hamper, and lighted mirrors. Your full size washer and dryer fits into a closet in the master bath, nicely. You will be comfortable in the king bed owners quarters, with a flip up dresser and large television. The living room offers a queen pull out, a heated loveseat w massage and lighting, a fireplace with a televator and a view!! Yep, there is a dining area that accomodates up to 4 people. We greatly enjoyed our short time in this rig, while we renovated an old home. Did I mention central vac?? On the exterior you are afforded awnings over the slide outs in addition to the two large shade awnings, an outdoor television, a big ol’ storage hold and more vacuum access. Contact us for more... Highly Motivated to Sell. (941) 504-2839 tmlara@live. com

2016 FOREST RIVER MICRO LITE, 21FBRS $12,500 or Best Offer. Fully self-contained, 12 ft electric awning with scare light, heated queen bed, power tongue jack. New tires 2023, outside shower, great condition. (828) 755-4925 blueboat7@yahoo.com

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

FOR SALE. 2015 Harley Sportster Custom 1200. Low Miles. Ready to ride. $8,500. 704472-0448.

VACATIONS

VACATION RENTAL- MYRTLE

BEACH. 3BR condo, available June 1-8, June 8-15, August 1724. $1895 weekly. Nights available, April/May. 828-447-6611. Myrtle Beach, SC 29572

MOBILE HOMES

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

RUTHERFORD COUNTY 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $700 per month. 828-382-0475.

OAKLAND-

A1 HOUSING - AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR EVERYONE. DO YOU OWN LAND? DO YOU WANT TO SAVE MONEY ON A HOME? A1 Housing LLC is HERE FOR YOU! We have homes with payments starting at $800/ month* LAND OWNER’S SPECIAL GOING ON NOW ON ALL MODELS IN STOCK AND CUSTOM ORDERED! Call us for details 704-7441500 for details! (704) 7741500 info@a1housing.net 14X58, 2 BEDROOM,