Rutherford Weekly 3-21-24

Article By Jean Gordon. Casey Ledbetter Photos.

A college freshman who struggled with autism as a child and as a teenager, decided a few years ago he wanted to help others who also struggle.

Ryan Byrd, a student at North Carolina State University and his good friend, Sophie Smart, a junior at Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy (TJCA) also wanted to make a difference to others.

Ryan and Sophie met at TJCA and ran cross country together. They became fast friends and running buddies outside of school.

The friends decided they should use their love for running, or more specifically, having fun while running, and bring it to the community “while simultaneously helping a cause we care about,” said Sophie.

Ryan was diagnosed with autism at a young age. “I had struggled with it through all of grammar and much of middle school,” he said.

“I wanted to do something to help other children who were struggling like I was,” Ryan began.

“Sophie was my friend on the team and my running buddy and she was talking about how it would be cool to have a 5K,” Ryan said.

“In the last few years, however, it has almost become a superpower for him,” Sophie said of Ryan.

“Last year, in the midst of the cross-country season, Ryan and I decided we should take something we love doing (most of the time) and use it to make a positive impact on something we care about. After

months of planning and putting the puzzle together, the Byrd & Bear 5K was born,” she said.

In combination of these two, a 5k for autism awareness just seemed right.

“It aligned with what I wanted to do as well so I said, ‘Let’s do it’.

The second annual race will be held April 6 at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) on the same course as TIEC hosts its cross country races. Everyone is encouraged to participate. Registration and packet pick-up begins at 9am and the race starts at 10am. An awards ceremony follows.

Sophie stresses participants do not have to run.

“Run. Walk. Crawl. However you plan to finish, join us,” Sophie said.

Registrations will continue until the day of race.

Sophie’s hopes for this year’s race is there will be a larger community involvement and more sponsorships. There were approximately 50 actual runners last year, although about 75 registered, but some couldn’t make it on race day.

“One of my teachers (Missy Yelton) said she would run if she could bring her horse...So she’s bringing her horse,” Sophie said.

Running is in Sophie’s genes.

“My grandfather, Walter Harry Puckett, brought the Turkey Trot to Boiling Springs,” Sophie

So like the Turkey

Trot, Sophie hopes the Byrd and Bear 5K trail race will go on for a long time.

“We’d like to keep this going,” she said.

Some of last year’s sponsors are already working with the 2024 race and they are encouraging others to join the event.

“We do keep the idea of community strong through interaction at the race. This year we have been looking at options of having every participant contribute to making a custom race puzzle as a form of community,” she said.

The Byrd and Bear 5K got its name from the race enthusiasts, themselves.

Ryan’s last name is Byrd, and during high school, he was often regarded as “Byrdman” or just “Byrd.”

“I, on the other hand, got my beloved nickname from my dad,” said Sophie. “Growing up he always called me “sopybear”. That nickname also followed me into high school.”

This event is for runners, non-runners, adults, children, and anyone who wants to support a good cause. There will be music, food, and fun for all ages.

All proceeds from the race will benefit the Autism Society of North Carolina.

For more information contact Ryan at BandB5k4autism@gmail.com or 704-472-3291.

Register or make donations on RunSignUp. com at: https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Tryon/ BandB5K4Autism.

The Autism Society of North Carolina defines Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as ”a group of developmental disabilities that are typically associated with challenges of varying severity in the areas of social interaction, communication, and repetitive/ restricted behaviors.” Signs of autism commonly appear in children by the age of three. More than 5.4 million US adults have been diagnosed with ASD.

Ryan Byrd and Sophie Smart packing bags for last year’s race.

The 2023 Byrd and Bear 5K participants after the 5K. This year’s event is April 6 and everyone is invited to join.

Audrey Friedman and Elizabeth Qualls were among 2023 runners.

The Distinguished Young Woman of Rutherford County program was held Saturday, March 16 at the Foundation Performing Arts Auditorium.

Andrea NarvaezSantos was named the Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Rutherford

DYW of Rutherford County named Saturday night

REaCH junior Andrea Narvaes-Santos earns the title

County for 2025, winning $5,000 in scholarships. She was awarded preliminary scholarship awards in the areas of talent, self-expression, interview, and the overall scholastic award. Andrea is the daughter of Justina and Vidal Narvaez and attends Rutherford Early College High School (REaCH).

Galloway of Chase High School.

More than $10,300 in scholarships was given to the participants.

The second finalist was Anna Kate Lovelace of East Rutherford High School, and first Finalist was Anastyn

Past winners, Kennedy Ruff and Maria-Thereza Gualberto served as emcees for the evening. Special Entertainment was provided by Madalyn Hughes, Anna Grace Tyson, 2023 DYW Nash County, and Dreamweavers Dance Studio.

The program also celebrated and said farewell to DYW of Rutherford County 2024, Madalyn Hughes.

The class of 2025 participants were judged in the areas of scholastics, interview, selfexpression, talent, and fitness.

Participants were:

Cindy Rosas Chavez, R-S Central, Laura Kate Lovelace, East Rutherford, Laraya Miller, R-S Central, Conley Costner, East Rutherford; Kylie Alexander, Chase, Elyzza Garcia, Rutherford

Early College High School (REaCH), Andrea NavaezSantos, REaCH and Anastyn, Galloway, Chase High School.

Scholarship Award recipients were:

Be Your Best Self: Kylie Alexander, Conley Costner Spirit Award: Anastyn Galloway

Fitness Awards: Conley Costner, Anastyn Galloway Self-expression Awards: Laura Kate Lovelace, Andrea Narvaez-Santos Talent Awards:

VA announces goal to house 41,000+ Veterans experiencing homelessness in 2024

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced its 2024 goals in support of its efforts to prevent and end Veteran homelessness.

Specifically, in fiscal year 2024, VA will:

• Place at least 41,000 Veterans experiencing homelessness into permanent housing.

• Ensure that at least 95% of the Veterans housed in FY 2024 do not return to homelessness during the year.

• Engage with at least 40,000 unsheltered Veterans to help them obtain housing and other wraparound services.

Ending Veteran homelessness is a top priority of VA and the entire Biden Administration. Thanks in part to VA’s efforts, the number of Veterans experiencing homelessness has fallen by nearly 5% since early 2020 and by more than 52% since 2010.

“Even one Veteran experiencing homelessness is a tragedy,” said VA Deputy Secretary Tanya Bradsher, who announced these goals today at the Washington D.C. VA Medical Center. “We’ve made progress in recent years in tackling this problem, but there’s still a long way to go — and that’s why we’re setting these aggressive goals. We will not rest until every Veteran has a safe, stable place to call home in

this country they swore to defend.”

“Whenever we get into contact with a homeless Veteran, our first priority is to get them into the housing they deserve,” added Bradsher. “Then we work to provide them with the tools they need to stay housed — including health care, job training, legal and education assistance, and more. That’s how we’ll meet and exceed these goals in 2024.”

In recent years, VA has taken aggressive action to combat Veteran homelessness. In 2023, VA permanently housed more than 46,000 Veterans, expanded access to health care for homeless Veterans, expanded access to legal assistance for homeless Veterans, helped more than 145,000 Veterans and their families retain their homes or otherwise avoid

foreclosure, and awarded more than $1 billion in grant funding to help homeless Veterans. In partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, VA also convened 10 national HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) bootcamps, in which local VA homeless program staff with public housing agencies from across the country participated in intensive two-day workshops to improve coordination to more quickly rehouse Veterans. During 2023, the HUD-VASH program helped over 21,000 Veterans exit homelessness and obtain permanent affordable housing with supportive services.

VA also announced specific goals for combating Veteran homelessness in the Greater Los Angeles area. During 2023, VA provided 1,790 permanent housing

placements to formerly homeless Veterans in LA, the most of any city in America, and exceeded their local goal by over 19%.

In FY 2024, VA will build on that progress by:

• Permanently housing at least 1,605 Veterans experiencing homelessness.

• Engaging with at least 2,184 unsheltered Veterans to help them obtain housing and other wraparound services.

VA’s efforts to combat Veteran homelessness are grounded in reaching out to homeless Veterans, understanding their unique needs, and addressing them. These efforts are built upon the evidence-based “Housing First” approach. For more information about VA’s comprehensive efforts to end Veteran homelessness, visit VA.gov/ homeless.

Article Provided By: US Department of Veterans Affairs

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MARCH 22 & 23 500 PADGETT ROAD, UNION MILLS (IN THE GILKEY COMMUNITY) BOTH DAYS 7:30AM-2PM

Household, furniture, rocking chair, recliner, microwave, costume jewelry, rice bed, lots

kitchenware, big selection

corning ware, Pyrex, old Tupperware, 2 Vacuums, ceramic Christmas tree, cast iron pieces, Lane cedar chest, women’s clothes and shoes, collectibles, Toro electric start push mower, edger, yard cart, 2 compressors, log splitter, wheel barrow, drill press, miscellaneous tools, yard tools, Craftsman gas pruner, push seed planter, pull spreader for mower, chain saws, Mid-century matching dresser & chest, vintage 60’s working hair dryer, sofa chairs, breakfast & dining table, curio cabinet, 60’s toy riding horse, crystal, vintage sewing machine and other. House full and two out buildings of items.

Andrea Narvaez-Santos, Anastyn Galloway

Interview Awards: Elyzza

Garcia, Andrea NarvaezSantos

Scholastic Awards: Elyzza

Garcia, Kylie Alexander

Overall Scholastic Award:

Andrea Narvaez-Santos

2nd Finalist: Laura Kate Lovelace

1st Finalist: Anastyn Galloway

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon. Photos Contributed.

BUSINESS AUCTION

SAT. March 23rd 9 : 00 AM & SUN . March 24th 2:00 PM

548 S. MAIN ST., (HWY 221) RUTHERFORDTON, NC.

PARTIAL LISTING

SPECIAL: 19TH Century Cetempung Musical Instrument.

FURNITURE, FIXTURES & ANTIQUES: Marble Top Carved Table, Curios, Antique Pump Organ, Shelves (Corner, Wooden, Metal, Hanging, Plastic, White Washed), Tables (Round Pine w/Lazy Susan, Retro Enamel, Dining Room, High Top,) Chairs (Arm, Armless, Upholstered., Wooden, Child), 8+- Beds, Roll Top Desk, School Desk, Chests, Slant Top Desk, Stands, China Cabinets, Rockers, Coffee & End Tables, Baker’s Rack, Child’s Oak Roll Top Desk, (2) Spinning Wheels, Quilt Racks, Cupboards. GLASS, CHINA & PORCELAIN: Cookie Jars (Large Amount), Depression Glass (Pink, Green, Amber, Clear, Ruby), Carnival, French, Italy, England, Haviland, Japan, Poland, Czechoslovia, Milk Glass, Collectible Plates, Teapots, Vases, Cups & Saucers, Planters, Stemware, Bavarian, Figurines, Cobalt, McCoy, Hull, Blue & White, Moss Rose. MISC: Gulf Sign, (2) Stop Lights, Wicker, Keyboard, Silverplate, Mirrors, M&M Plastic Display Figure, Cast Iron Bell, Speed Queen Wringer Washer, Pictures, Artificial Flowers, Lamps & Floor Lamps, Dolls, Jewelry (Large Selection), Signs, Rocking Horse, Wooden Boxes, Ducks, Fishing Items. Lures, Rods, Reels & Tackle Box, Enamel, Rolling Pins, Textiles, Copper, Brass, Bikes. Bicycle Built for Two, 1 Axle Yard Trailer, Farm Tools, Plows, Racks, Books, Ladies Hats, Life Magazines. TOOLS & SHOP EQUIPMENT: Jet Lathe, Craftsman 3 HP Saw, Craftsman 10HP Radial Arm Saw. BRIDAL ITEMS: Fountains, Chocolate, Candelabras (Floor Standing). CHRISTMAS: Santa’s, Angels, Decorations, Train, China, Nutcrackers, Cookie Jars, Christmas Villages, Hallmark, Linens, Stockings, Wreathes, Nativity Scenes. AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: No way to list everything in this auction. Store is full & we will be selling in large quantities. Come buy if you are a dealer, flea market seller or just a collector. Lots of shelves & racks that could be used in a store or in your home. We will sell on Saturday & start again on Sunday to finish up. If you are unable to move any of the furniture or equipment we will be there on Monday, March 25th, but it should be moved on that date.

The 2025 Class with DYW of Rutherford County 2024, Madalyn Hughes.

Madalyn Hughes with Andrea Narvaez-Santos. Andrea Narvaez-Santos

Three Rutherford County leaders of education were inducted into the Rutherford County Schools Hall of Fame recently during a gala hosted by the Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation (RCSEF).

The gala was held at the Foundation, Isothermal Community College as family and friends celebrated with the new Hall of Fame inductees. Meta (Facebook) sponsored the annual event.

Inducted were Dr. John Mark Bennett, Sally Blanton, and the late Charles Z. “Chuck” Flack Jr.

Each Hall of Fame inductee was featured in a video before recipients gave personal, brief remarks about their induction and accepted the prestigious award. Cooper Flack accepted the award on behalf of his father, Chuck Flack, Jr.

Superintendent Dr. David Sutton praised each honoree for their vision, leadership, and dedication to helping and serving other people, and for making Rutherford County a better place.

Dr. John Mark Bennett served for 20 years as a member of the Board of Education. For 14 of these years, he was chairman. He led the school system through a period of unprecedented growth.

Bennett, Blanton, Flack inducted into Education Hall of Fame

“This period saw the construction of seven new schools, the establishment of the innovative and awardwinning early college high school, the implementation of the largest one-to-one digital learning program in the southeast, and significant improvements in high school graduation and dropout rates,” his Hall of Fame biography stated.

“His guidance and leadership were pivotal in setting the tone for our district, enabling school leaders to concentrate on the vital work. Despite economic challenges and seemingly insurmountable obstacles, he urged the district to pursue bold and innovative strategies that drove substantial progress.”

“I am most humbled and honored,” Bennett told the audience, before thanking his family for their support, and all school employees who work to make RCS a success.

Bennett reminded the audience he came from a family with a love of education.

“I’ve always been interested in education,” he said. Bennett said it was a “tremendous honor” to serve on the Board of Education.

Retired educator Sally Blanton was honored for being student-centered and

a compassionate leader. She served in RCS for nearly 30 years.

“From her humble beginnings as a teacher assistant, to her leadership roles as teacher, assistant principal, and principal, her tireless commitment to the betterment of our schools was unwavering,” her Hall of Fame biography stated. “Even after retiring from formal roles within RCS, she continued to be a steadfast advocate for education by serving as field supervisor for Western Carolina University student teaching program...Her enduring legacy was a testament to her passion for enriching the lives of students and educators alike, reinforcing her reputation as champion for students throughout RCS.”

“My heart is full,” Blanton said, thanking God and her family.

Blanton thanked the late Ray Crawford who was a former principal at New Hope Middle School ,”for giving me my start.” She also thanked fellow educator Jackie Hampton for being her mentor during her early years of teaching.

Businessman Charles “Chuck” Flack was remembered for his dedication to public education, and his lasting,

life-long friendship with the late Robert McNair. Flack played an important role in Robert and Janice McNair’s decision to form the McNair Foundation, which serves the students of RCS.

“Serving as a founding member of the McNair Foundation Board of Trustees and the NC Board of Governors, Flack displayed unwavering commitment to enhancing public education,” his Hall of Fame biography stated. “His legacy epitomizes dedication, support, and an unwavering quest for excellence, solidifying his status as a true advocate for the students of Rutherford County Schools.”

Cooper Flack stated “Dad would be honored, and humbled, at being inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

Flack’s family said they will always remember the Christmas Eve when Robert McNair called him at home with the idea of forming a scholarship program for the students of Rutherford County.

RCSEF Executive Director Ritchie Garland said of the inductees, “These individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and innovation in their efforts to improve the lives of students in Rutherford County.... Their work has inspired numerous students and set a benchmark of excellence that will continue to benefit our community for years to come.”

Dinner followed the induction ceremony in the Foundation lobby.

The event was cohosted by Garland and Brad Teague, Rutherford County Schools (RCS) chief operating officer. The

McNair, Roger T. Petty, J.J. Tarleton, Henrietta Tarlton; Dr. Lucille H. Daniel, Jackie S. Hampton, Inez R. Padgett, Thomas Porter, Rev. Bob Roy Staley, Pearl G. Barnette, Chivous Bradley, Joan King, Stacy Lail Jr., Shirley Powell;

Hendrick, Benny Hendrix, Marty Hopper, Phillip White; Sgt. Major Don Barrett, Pat Keeter, Dr. Janet Harmon Mason, Dr. John L. Kinlaw.

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon. Rachael Bradley Photos.

Rutherford County Education Hall of Fame inductees Dr. John Mark Bennett, Sally Blanton and Cooper Flack, accepting the award for his late father, Charles Z. Flack Jr.

Dr. Janet Mason, chairman of the RCS Education Foundation welcomes the audience and congratulates the new inductees.

Church asks the question, “How Can We Help?”

A small congregation of believers at the Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, Forest City is fulfilling the Great Commission to go out into the world to help others and proclaim the gospel, beginning at home.

“We have a loving attendance of between 30 and 35,” said Allison Jones.

Pastor Keys Pendleton said the church “reaches out to the community around us with one question, ‘How can we help’?” A beautiful expression of Christ’s love in action in our world.”

Outreach Missions for 2024 include adopting Forest City-Dunbar Elementary, Out of the Ashes, and Hands of Hope Pregnancy Resource Center.

Each church member helps one of the three missions on a rotating schedule, so they are able to assist each one quarterly

with whatever their needs are.”

In January, the church sent several pairs of shoes to Forest City Dunbar Elementary for children in need. The congregation also donated school supplies and money for uniform assistance. Ron Hoover is the coordinator for the Forest City Dunbar mission.

In February, the church collected almost $500 and filled care bags with personal hygiene and toiletry items for the Out of the Ashes ministry. Peggy Thompson is the coordinator for Out of the Ashes.

In March, the Hands of Hope Pregnancy Resource Center, is the outreach ministry as church members will assist women and children. Becky Pendleton is the coordinator for Hands of Hope. In addition the Outreach

Missions, there is Sunday School at 10am on Sunday mornings, followed by a relaxed, traditional worship service at 11am.

Bible Study is on Monday evenings. The attendees recently completed watching “The Chosen” on television, followed by Bible Study.

“This has been one of the most impactful Bible Studies that we have ever done and look forward to doing more,” said Jones.

“Fellowship Trips” are taken each month as the members attend various activities and enjoy a meal together.

The church has had a worship service dedicated to honoring “Our Heroes”, including Veterans, First Responders, Fire, Police and others

The church is in its final stages of launching their website: pgumcfc.org.

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Race returns to Kiwanis Park on April 20

The 2024 Purple Martin Greenway Fabulous 4 Miler returns to Rutherfordton on April 20 and runners are invited to participate. The race will begin at Kiwanis Park and follow the greenway down and back for a fabulous finish in the heart of the park. All proceeds for this year’s race go to support the Eric Wells Memorial Shelter that is under construction in Kiwanis Park near the 7th Street parking area. Eric was a supporter of the ROC Race Series, a Kiwanian and a Scoutmaster.

For more information visit rutherfordoutdoor.org

Article Provided By: Jean Gordon

Executive Director & Founder Out of the Ashes; back row- Ron Hoover, Peggy Thompson and Allison Jones from Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church.

MARCH

Saturdays

Through March 30

What: Symphony Rehearsals

When: Saturdays; 10am12pm

Where: : First Presbyterian Church, Forest City

More Info: Big concert in April. No audition required. Info at rcsymphony.org.

March 22

What: Chicken Dinner Fundraiser

When: March 22; 4-7pm

Where: Cleveland County Fairgrounds; 1751 E. Marion St., Shelby

More Info: Proceeds support the general operations of VIA Health Partners, founded as Hospice Cleveland County. $15 per plate. Dine in or drive-thru. Sponsorships available, call Pam 980-408-2359.

March 23

What: Kids in America Concert (80’s tribute band)

When: March 23; 8pm

Where: The Performing Arts Center, Isothermal Community College

More Info: Tickets $20$30;. Call 828-286-9990

What: Free Car Show

When: March 23; 11am to 2:30pm

Where: Timken Shiloh Plant; 1510 US 221 Hwy. Rutherfordton

More Info: Trophies awarded; car show vehicles must check in to enter between 10am11am.

What: Rutherford County Farmers Market

When: March 23; 10am to 2pm

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

What: SALEbration, Habitat Clothing Store

When: March 23; 9am to 3pm

Where: Habitat Clothing Center; 269 West Main St., Forest City

More Info: Food sales, giveaways

March 28

What: Rutherford County

Woodworkers Club

When: Every Fourth Tuesday

Where: Rutherford County Annex, Rutherfordton

More Info: 919-696-6064

What: Stitch by Stitch

When: First Saturday of each month, 12pm

Where: Rutherford County Library, Callahan Rd., Spindale

More Info: Ages 10 and up; crossstitch, needle point and slow stitching

What: If you’re an American Legion member of Post 74 Forest City, Post 423 Henrietta or Post 437 Chimney Rock and haven’t renewed your membership dues for 2023-2024, please do so ASAP. Renew at www. legion.org.

More Info: If you’d like to join the American Legion, contact Jimmy at 704-819-5862.

Volunteer Opportunity

More Info: NC Guardian ad Litem Program trains & supervises child advocate volunteers to represent best interests of kids in court system. www. volunteerforgal.org, 828-288-6121.

What: Red Cross Blood Drive

When: March 28; 10am2:30pm

Where: Lake Lure Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall; 6837 US Hwy 64/74A

More Info: To make an appointment visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-733-2767.

What: Housing & Financial Literacy

When: March 28; 6pm

Where: Grahamtown Community Center

What: 10th anniversary celebration

When: March 28; 11am to 2pm

Where: Rutherford Health Center; 187 West Main St., Spindale

More Info: Clinic & tooth bus tours, blood pressure screenings, community health resources, refreshments, raffle prize.

What: Rutherford Outdoor Coalition volunteer information session

Tuesdays

What: Open Arms Substance Abuse

When: Tuesdays 6-7pm

Where: Highland Apartments Activity Center; 171 Butler Rd., Forest City

More Info: Open to those with substance abuse, parents or guardians of children with substance abuse addictions. Rena: 828-305-1280.

Thursdays

What: Atrium Health community health bus

When: Thursdays 9:30am-4:30pm

Where: Grahamtown Community Center; 129 First St., Forest City

More Info: Screenings, referrals, cardiology pediatrics, well checks, radiology, diabetology; walk-ins welcome; www.grahamtownteam.org

What: Rutherfordton Kiwanis Club

Meeting When: 6:30-7:30pm (except 5th Thurs)

Where: Woodrow Jones Building, Rutherfordton

More Info: “Kiwanis of Rutherfordton” on FaceBook. New members welcome and light dinner served. ruffkiwanis@ gmail.com

When: March 28; 5:30pm

Where: Spindale House

More Info: Email trails@ rutherfordoutdoor.org to claim a spot

March 29

What: LEAP -Business Retail Day

When: March 29; 124pm

Where: Grahamtown Community Center

More Info: Support young entrepreneurs as they sell their products to raise funds for college tour trip. Pinatas, jewelry, art, cosmetics. Tour: April 1-5; $300/tudent; few spaces available.

April 2

What: Harris High Alumni and

Friends Breakfast

When: April 2; 8:30am

Where: Denny’s Restaurant

April 6

What: Tree swap event

When: April 6

Where: Rutherford County Senior

Center

More Info: Swap Bradford trees for other native trees. 828-287-6000.

April 11

What: First Aid certification class

When: April 11; 5:30-9:30pm

Where: Bills Creek Community Center

More Info: $25. Pre-registration & prepayment required: billscreekcommunitycenter@gmail. com; Bills Creek Community Center, PO Box 787, Lake Lure NC 28746 April 20

What: Rutherfordton Kiwanis

Children’s Auction

When: April 20; more details soon

Where: 230 N. Cleghorn St., Rutherfordton

May 3

What: Lake Lure Farmers Market

When: May 3

Where: 2948 Memorial Hwy. Lake Lure

More Info: Online applications: Lakelurefarmersmarket@gmail.com

Taking a trip for spring break?

Watch out for these scams

instead of cash to improve your odds of getting a refund if the company goes out of business.

• If you have any questions, reach out to our office’s Consumer Protection Division.

•

• Get details about a trip in writing and review a quote before you agree to pay anything. Hold on to your confirmation.

• Pay with a credit card

We hope that your travel plans are everything you hope they will be. But, if you think you or somebody you know has been the victim of a scam, contact our office’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NOSCAM or file a complaint online at https://ncdoj.gov/ complaint.

Article Provided

NC Attorney General’s Office

The Rutherford County Sports Hall of Fame (RCSHOF) announces tickets to the 2024 RCSHOF Induction Ceremony are now on sale.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 25 at The Foundation Performing Arts Center on the campus of Isothermal Community College beginning at 6pm Doors open at 5:15pm. Tickets can be purchased online (www.Foundationshows. org) or at The Foundation Box Office for $25 each. A service fee will be applied to online orders.

Quantities are limited, so patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance of the event.

This year, the RCSHOF will honor an outstanding class of six individuals. Below is a short summary of each individuals’ accomplishments, which will be expounded on in greater detail at the ceremony.

Inductees are Carl Bartles, Tonya SanfordBoykins, Chad Flack, Troy Harris, Paul Tim Jones and Bert Lattimore.

CARL BARTLES

Bartles is one of the best Running Backs to ever come out of

Rutherford County Sports Hall of Fame Tickets on Sale

a standout on the track team for the Hilltoppers, setting school records along the way. After graduation from R-S, Bartles attended LeniorRhyne where he also set records on the gridiron for the Bears and was elected to the Lenoir Rhyne Hall Of Fame in 1993. Bartles went on to sign a professional contract with the NFL’s Washington Redskins before playing in the Canadian and World Football Leagues. Following his football career, Bartles served as a longtime coach and educator at Piedmont High School in Monroe.

ANTONIEA (TONYA) SANFORD-BOYKINS

Tonya Sanford-Boykins found success at every sport she tried during a decorated athletic career at East Rutherford. From 1981-85, SanfordBoykins played basketball, softball, volleyball and ran track during her time with the Cavaliers. Upon graduation from East, Sanford-Boykins earned a basketball scholarship (the first female athlete from East Rutherford to do so) to Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte where she also played softball. As a Golden

college levels.

RANDOLPH BURTON (BERT) LATTIMORE

Randolph Burton (Bert) Lattimore was equally at home on the football gridiron and the baseball diamond. The Bostic native excelled at both sports while attending Cool Springs High School from 19501954. Upon graduation from Cool Springs, Lattimore attended Duke University in Durham on a football scholarship, where he was a Wide Receiver for the Blue Devils. Lattimore’s strong play led him to be drafted 96th overall in the 1958 NFL Draft, but he turned down the opportunity for a chance to play baseball in the Philadelphia Phillies organization.

TROY HARRIS

Harris was a true Renaissance Man for the

TRACK Trail in Chimney Rock

one of top 10-most visited in nation

The Track Trail (aka, the Great Woodland Adventure) is one of the top-10 most visited TRACK Trails in the nation in 2023. The Great Woodland Adventure in Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park was one of the first ever TRACK Trails, a program that has now expanded to 270 trails in 18 states and Washington DC.

TRACK Trails is a program of Kids in Parks, which encourages kids and families to get outside and enjoy parks and public lands. TRACK Trails, including the Great Woodland Adventure, have special materials that help kids and families learn together as they explore and recreate.

Article Provided By: Jean

Gordon

R-S Central Hilltoppers. During his four-year prep career in Rutherfordton (1977-81), Harris played football, basketball and baseball. On the hardwood, Harris was the point guard for the 1979-80 Hilltopper team that went 32-0 and won the State Championship. Upon graduation from R-S, Harris attended Spartanburg Methodist on a baseball scholarship before transferring to Elon to finish his career. Harris is also a member of the Elon Hall Of Fame.

CHAD FLACK

Flack is one of the newer members of the pantheon of great baseball players to call the diamonds of Rutherford County home. The Forest City native had an outstanding high school career, leading the East Rutherford Cavaliers

to three consecutive State Titles from 2002-2004, setting numerous program and NCHSAA records along the way. Flack made just as big a mark on the college level, as he was an integral part of the North Carolina Tar Heel teams that made the College World Series from 20062008.

PAUL TIM JONES

If there is one name that is synonymous with Track & Field in Rutherford County, it is Paul Tim Jones. The 1959 graduate of Cool Springs High School went on to captain the first-ever Track and Field Team at Western Carolina in 1967 after completing his military service in Vietnam. He began

coaching the Catamounts in 1968 as a graduate assistant and took over as the head coach in 1969. Over the next 12 seasons in Cullowhee, Jones coached several All-Americans and was named the NCAA Division II Coach Of The Year in 1974 and 1975. After leaving Western Carolina, Jones returned home to Rutherford County where he helped to strengthen the track programs in the area as both a coach and official. Jones is also a member of the WCU Hall Of Fame.

For additional information, visit rcshof. org or call The Foundation Box Office at 828-2869990.

East Rutherford Hunter Safety Team wins at regional competition

BBB Scam Alert: Betting on a big game? Don’t fall for a sports betting scam

Thanks to new legal changes, the popularity of sports betting has exploded.

If you think scammers haven’t noticed, think again.

BBB advises that you check before downloading a sports betting app or placing a bet before the big game.

How the scam works

You want to place a bet on an upcoming game, so you search online for a sports betting service. You find a website or app that looks

trustworthy. It may even offer an enticing introductory bonus, so you can make an initial bet “risk free.”

You place a bet, and, at first, everything seems normal. But as soon as you try to cash out your winnings, you find you can’t withdraw a cent. Scammers will make up various excuses. For example, they may claim technical issues or insist on additional identity verification. In other cases, they may

require you to deposit even more money before you can withdraw your winnings! Whatever you do, you’ll never be able to get your money off the site. And any personal information you shared is now in the hands of scam artists.

One victim reported to BBB Scam Tracker: “I deposited money to put a wager for a sports game. I won the bet [and] attempted 3 times to cash out and 3

times it was declined. Spoke to their representative, and they needed a picture of my driver’s license, a photo of myself holding my ID, and a blank check from my bank. With all the run around I’ve been given, it prompted me to read their reviews. All horrible reviews of a scam. Called my credit card company to file a fraud report.”

How to avoid sports betting scams

• Look for an established, approved service. Look for “white-listed” sports books that have been approved by your area’s gaming commission. In the United States, ESPN has a list of where sports betting is legal.

• Don’t fall for tempting ads. Ignore gambling-related popup ads, email spam, or text messages.

• Read the fine print on incentives. Gambling sites and apps often offer incentives or bonuses to new users and around major games. But like any sales pitch, these can be deceptive. Be sure to read the fine print carefully.

• Even legitimate sports betting sites have the right to freeze your winnings. Gambling companies can restrict user’s activity for “seeming to have an ‘unfair advantage’ or ‘irregular playing patterns,’” reports Lifehacker. Be sure to check the terms of service.

Article Provided By: Juliana O’Rork

GARY

Fishing is a great sport that millions of men and women participate in each year. Most of the country boasts of its places to fish and each area has its specialty. For instance, my area is known for its lakes. Other areas are known for their rivers or streams, and some for their access to the ocean. There really is something for everyone. What I forget many times about fishing is how my success today is based on what has happened yesterday or even the past several days. It may be beautiful and sunny today but if the last several days were full of rain, it may be impossible to fish. This doesn’t affect the larger bodies of water as much, but it still makes a difference. The rivers and streams will always show the effect of the weather of a few days earlier.

Every time I think about this truth, I am reminded of how important it is for me to do the right things today so I can be ready for what might happen in the future. So many people live their lives only reacting to the situations they find themselves in. In many cases this is no big deal, but in some it will surely bring the wrong reaction. The best way to ensure the right response is preparing for the action ahead of time. For instance, if you are fishing with the expectation of the possibility of an evening thunderstorm, you will be both prepared for it and not taken aback when it comes. Many times, in our spiritual lives we are thrown into a storm. The Bible is clear that these will come to all our lives from time to time. Thus, we need to expect them and be prepared for them as well. But how? We do this by knowing what the Bible says about these storms and by reading how God delivered His people in and through them. When we see how God responded then, we know how He will respond in our situation as well. As a result, we will not be blindsided by whatever comes our way. There is a Biblical principle here. It’s this. Regarding our natural life, “you reap what you sow.” If you sow into your life the truths about God now, you will reap the benefits of right reactions when you’re caught in the storm later. Don’t wait until you’re in the storm to look for needed help. Everything you need to prepare for is available now.

MILLER

The East Rutherford FFA Hunter Safety Team competed at Regional Competition on

Become a trail, river hero; ROC looking for volunteers

Looking for new ways to get outdoors and help your local community? As spring begins and temperatures warm up, volunteers are needed for local trail and river upkeep.

Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, a local nonprofit, leads regular trail maintenance workdays to keep our trails safe, accessible, and sustainable from erosion.

During a trail workday, you can expect to learn about trail building, maintenance, erosion control, and all about trails as you work alongside our Trails Coordinator and experienced trail bosses. Workdays take place monthly at trails around the county. Isothermal Community College workdays are on the first

Tuesday of the month; Dittmer-Watts is on the first Thursday of the month; Weed Patch is on the second

seeking River Stewards to float the Broad River. River Stewards check their river sections once a month and help inform future river improvements and cleanups. River Stewards are supported by our Trails Coordinator and collaborate with other stewards to work towards a better future for the Broad River. Volunteers of all skill levels are welcome and invited. Get involved with us to learn new skills, meet new friends, and get outdoors!

To learn more about either of these opportunities, join our upcoming volunteer information session at the Spindale House March 28 at 5:30pm. Email trails@ rutherfordoutdoor.org to claim a spot.

Rutherford Outdoor Coalition (ROC) is a nonprofit dedicated to improving and promoting outdoor

Free tree giveaway celebrates Arbor Day

NC Arbor Day is Friday, March 22 and in an effort to bring attention to the importance of trees, Unity in the Community in Polk County, gave 800 tree seedlings to the public during an awareness day at Tractor Supply in Columbus on March 16.

David Staley, chairman of Unity in the Community, helped coordinate the tree seedlings give-away, along with other volunteers.

The 800 tree seedlings giveaway also received the support of the NC Forestry Service, Polk County Unity Club and the Polk County Agriculture Dept.

“We challenged the

community,” Staley added.

Trees are priceless and important to the environment and wellbeing, Staley told students and volunteers.

They provide benefits such as “cleaning the air we breathe, filtering the water, providing habitat to over 80 percent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity, providing jobs to 1.6 billion people and trees absorb harmful carbon from the atmosphere,” he said.

Unity in the Community of the Foothills recently partnered with Polk Central Elementary School and Unity Club of Polk County High School to celebrate Arbor

Seasonal allergies crop up at certain times each year, particularly in spring and fall.

In 2021, approximately 81 million people in the United States were diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The Canadian Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation says between 20 and 25% of Canadians suffer from allergic rhinitis.

Tree and grass pollen are notable contributors to allergies, as is mold. Verywell Health says allergies can be worse in certain areas. In the U.S., certain areas of the East Coast have high rates of allergies, while cities on the West Coast tend to be less harsh on those with allergies.

Since allergies can make life uncomfortable, people want to know all they can do to overcome seasonal allergies. These strategies can help.

• Know the pollen count. Information is key, and knowing when pollen or mold counts are particularly high can help people take certain steps to avoid allergic reactions.

• Close the windows. When pollen levels are high, closing windows to prevent breezes that can bring pollen inside a home can be an effective

Day with the tree seedlings give-away project last Saturday.

Other Unity leaders are Markiesha Jackson, Termaine Jackson and Terri Palmer.

This marks the third year the Unity in the Community

awareness of the benefit of trees.

On Monday, March 25, the school students will have a special program with guest speakers, will host a poster contest, have a scavenger hunt and will make an apple treat as the celebration of

Overcome seasonal allergies

strategy. You also can utilize a HEPA filter on the home’s air conditioning system.

• Remove clothes worn outdoors and shower to rinse pollen off of skin and hair.

• While it can reduce energy usage, hanging clothing to line dry during high pollen counts can cause pollen to stick to freshly laundered items.

• Avoid gardening or other outdoor activities when pollen is high. If you must be outdoors, wear a mask.

• Try an antihistamine product that will reduce your body’s

reaction to the seasonal allergen. WebMD says butterbar as well as a plantbased Phleum pratense could be natural alternative antihistamine products.

• Use a nasal rinse to clean allergens out of your nose. This can help ease congestion and itching. Select sterile saline solutions or carefully follow directions for preparing rinses in neti pots.

• Corticosteroid nasal sprays can improve nasal symptoms.

Speak with a doctor about how to use these products

and how long to use them.

• Consider allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy. These shots can help desensitize the body to common allergies by using very small amounts of allergens over time. Eventually the immune system will produce a reduced reaction to the allergen.

Allergies can be troublesome. However, various strategies can help to diminish the often unpleasant effects of seasonal allergies.

ROC team of clean-up voluteers.

CHURCH HAPPENINGS A R E A AREA

DEADLINE FOR CHURCH HAPPENINGS: MONDAYS 10AM • EMAIL TO: EVENTS@RUTHERFORDWEEKLY.COM

March 29

March 31

Mount Vernon Baptist Church

2676 HUDLOW RD., FOREST CITY, NC

We Invite You To Attend The Church Of Your Choice

March 22

What: Free hotdog meal

When: March 22; noon

Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale

March 23

What: Egg Hunt & Hot Dog Lunch

When: March 23; 10am-12pm

Where: Prospect Baptist Church; 2610 Prospect Church Rd., Mooresboro

What: Good Friday Service

When: March 29; 8pm

Where: Florence Baptist Church, Forest City

More Info: Living Lord’s Supper

What: Good Friday Service

When: March 29; 6:30pm

Where: Concord Baptist Church; 720 Old US Hwy. 74, Bostic

More Info: Will include “Risen Savior, Conquering King” presented by Concord Baptist Adult Choir followed by communion.

March 30

What: Food Pantry & Meal

When: March 30; 10am-12pm

Where: Mt. Olivet Baptist Church; 1517 Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Rd., Ellenboro

More Info: Held last Saturday monthly. April 27, May 25, June 29, July 27, August 31.

What: Easter Resurrection

Gathering When: March 31; 9:45am Sunday school; 11am United worship service

Where: Florence Baptist Church, Forest City

What: Easter Sunday Service

When: March 31; 11am

Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale

More Info: No sunrise service or breakfast this year.

April 7

What: Living By Faith Singing

When: April 7; 7pm

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

April7-10

What: Revival

When: April 7-10. April 7; 10am, April 8-10; 7pm.

Where: Mt. Hebron Church; 2869 Hudlow Rd., Forest City

More Info: Speaker- Pat Jobe

What: Soup Supper Fund Raiser

When: March 23; 4-6pm

Where: High Shoal Baptist Church; 284 High Shoals Church Rd., Mooresboro

More Info: Proceeds to Needy Family Christmas Fund. Adults $7, 6-12 $3, under 6, free.

What: Easter Egg Hunt and hotdog supper

When: March 23; 3-5pm

Where: Mount Vernon Baptist Church; 2676 Hudlow Rd., Forest City

What: Easter Egg Hunt

When: March 23; 4-6pm

Where: Wilson Baptist Church; 3617 Whitesides Rd., Forest City

More Info: Hot dogs 4-5, egg hunt 5-6.

What: “Jesus Christ: From the Cradle to the Empty Tomb”, a guided walk-thru tour

When: March 23; 6-9pm

Where: West Point Baptist Church, 1160 Union Rd., Rutherfordton

More Info: Rain date: March 24. 828-287-0165.

March 24

What: Singing

When: March 24; 6pm

Where: Bostic Missionary Methodist Church; 145 Joe Bostic Rd., Bostic

More Info: featuring Living by Faith

March 28

What: Maundy Thursday service

When: March 28; 6pm

Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale

More Info: Good Friday will be observed via a virtual service on Facebook on March 29.

Mosaic Hope, the nonprofit hub of support for children, families and social service workers in the foster care system, has a home on West Main Street in Forest City that will bring housing, emergency supplies and assistance to foster parents, children and Department of Social Services (DSS) workers.

“We are very excited to get started on the renovations so we can actually open up the house to families and kids,” said Emily Wood, executive director of Mosaic House.

“The Mosaic House will be one that can be used by social workers but we will have our own programming that goes along with it,” said Wood.

Mosaic Hope has a new home to support foster children

that began seven years ago when the “Lord gave us the crazy dream of “a house”.

Two years ago the volunteers found the perfect property and praying began about

Wood shared the story

Forest City. “All the glory belongs to the Lord,” said Wood. “We have witnessed miracles upon miracles

Renovations underway soon

along this journey, and we know there are more to come,” said Wood. “Our board is working on the rehab plans and we will be sharing how you can help in the days to come. This is just the beginning of so much more. Be sure to stay tuned for more news to come,” she said.

Mosaic Hope volunteers/staff are drawing up new house plans, will meet with a contractor and begin the process of providing the emergency housing.

DSS recently received a grant from Dogwood Foundation to put an emergency home DSS property to help with emergency foster children situations.

The new house to be owned by DSS will primarily be for children in the early

Defensive driving program presented at Rutherford County Senior Center

Defensive driving is driving to protect others. That was the beginning statement at a recent program at the Rutherford County Senior Center presented by Jeff Hill, Operations Manager of Rutherford County Transit.

The presentation was divided into five key points:

• The first was aim high in steering. This is a reminder to stay focused on what is happening ahead of us as a car travels a quarter mile in 15 to 18 seconds and a driver averages making 115 decisions every mile.

• The second is to see the big picture to be aware of what is going on around us. We either select or reject the things we see and it is important to select the right thing. A driver should always stay at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of them. At 30 miles per hour a vehicle is traveling 45 feet per second. With a perception time of 1.5 seconds and a reaction time of 1 second this gives the driver 1.5 seconds to get stopped if necessary. Hill cautioned about distractions while driving stating that a main distraction is required on all vehicles and that is the side mirror. The driver should take only a quick glance at the mirror and not spend too much time looking at things that are behind. It is always best to pull off the road for a cell phone conversation.

keep his or her eyes moving. Don’t stare. Keeping the eyes moving activates the brain. When pulling into a roadway the driver should look left, right and left again since that is the lane closest to you.

• Leave yourself an out was topic number four. People like to be in a group but when driving we should create space between other vehicles on the road. If stopped behind a car at the stop sign or traffic signal the driver should be able to look over the hood and see where the tires of the car in front touch the pavement. Reasons for this include the fact the car in front may roll back, if you are hit from behind you may not be knocked into the car in front and if the car is broken down you have room to get around without backing up.

• Last was to make sure they see you. He stated this was particularly important at a 4-way stop. It is a good idea to make eye contact with other drivers at the 4-way stop and to look for ways to determine their intention. This includes checking the other vehicles’ signal lights and looking to see if their tires are turned. Sometimes it is a good idea to tap the horn to get other drivers’ attention.

These not only apply to going forward but are very important when backing. It is impossible to eliminate all blind spots so he reminded drivers to practice GOAL - get out and look before backing. When parking it is better to choose the safest place rather than the closest. It is better to park where you can pull forward rather than back out. If you can’t pull through it is better to back into a parking space. These defensive driving guidelines give the driver space, visibility and time to watch out for other drivers and hopefully prevent an accident.

stages of foster care, hardto-place children for longer term care and children that have already been at the Mosaic Hope for more than three days, explained Wood.

Mosaic is a nonprofit that is meeting the immediate needs of foster children with emergency supplies

Wood said the DSS house will function differently from the Mosaic House, but will complement each other.

On May 9, the annual “A Night of Hope” will be held to help with furnishing the home.

The value of a new vehicle depreciates considerably the moment it is driven off a dealership lot. Bankrate reports that a car loses between 9 and 11 percent of its value the moment it leaves the dealership, and over the first five years a vehicle loses roughly 40 percent of its value.

The fact that vehicles are expensive and lose value so quickly compels some consumers to consider preowned cars and trucks as more affordable and financially savvy options. However, preowned vehicles come with their own risks, such as the potential for hidden problems. A vehicle history report is something every prospective preowned vehicle buyer should ask to see before buying a car or truck. Sometimes these reports are a free service offered by a seller, particularly an established dealership. But buyers may have to pay to get a vehicle history report, which typically cost between $25 and $40.

Kelley Blue Book says a vehicle history report is a collection of records that provide information on a used vehicle that are pulled from thousands of sources. A report may be referred to as a “Carfax®,” which is the name of a firm that offers

these types of reports. However, Car & Driver indicates that Carfax® only provides information that was reported, so their reports may not paint the full picture. A typical vehicle history report will indicate, among other things, how many people owned the car; whether or not the vehicle has been in a collision; the mileage on the vehicle; if the car is current on inspections; and if the vehicle is

branded a lemon. Consumers should know what to look for when reading a report. While some of the data will be obvious, there are some less apparent points to consider as well.

• Title: Make sure the vehicle never had a salvage title or other title problems. A salvage title, for example, is a vehicle that has been declared a total loss from collision, flood, theft, fire, or vandalism. Additional issues may arise when the seller’s name is not on the title. A rebuilt title means the vehicle was once salvaged but then refurbished.

• Ownership: The vehicle history report will indicate how many owners have had the vehicle. A car that has changed hands many times may not be

the best investment.

• VIN: It’s important to make sure the vehicle identification number (VIN) for the vehicle matches what is on the vehicle history report.

• Location of sales: The locations where the vehicle was used and stored also is important. For example, some may be hesitant if a vehicle was kept by the coast due to moisture and salty

conditions that could cause premature wear and tear on components.

• Fleet vehicle: Carfax says that the history report will indicate if the vehicle spent time in a fleet. This includes rental vehicles, government vehicles, company vehicles, and dealer vehicles. A fleet vehicle may have had many different drivers over a short period of time.

Auto City suggests paying close attention to the most recent parts of a vehicle’s history. If there have been multiple changes in ownership or increased service records for certain parts, that may indicate there is something seriously wrong with the car.

Vehicle history reports are another tool buyers can use when vetting preowned cars or trucks.

By: Jean Gordon

tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

As a fifth grader at Forest City Elementary School a long time ago, our teacher Eva Hampton instructed us to memorize the poem “Trees” by Joyce Kilmer.

Joyce Kilmer was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey and the poem was originally published in 1913. According to Rutgers University, a white oak tree on its campus was the one that inspired Kilmer’s 1913 poem.

“Trees” can be read as a hymn of praise to God’s creation, celebrating both the wonder of the natural world and its maker. A musical version of the poem is played over loudspeakers at Trees of Mystery in California.

I thought about the poem and Joyce Kilmer after talking with David Staley in Polk County

over the weekend. His nonprofit group, Unity in the Community, gave 800 tree seedlings to the public last Saturday to honor NC Arbor Day which is Friday, March 22.

Trees have played a vital part in all of our lives, not even counting all the benefits of trees and how we can’t live without them. We breathe clean air because of trees. Trees filter the water, provide habitat to over 80 percent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversitytropical rainforestproviding jobs to 1.6 billion people and trees absorb harmful carbon from the atmosphere and more.

Tree climbing was a part of our childhood. My sisters and I once begged our neighbor to climb our Chinaberry tree and walk the clothes line. She tried. After one step she was at the root of the tree on the ground with a bad cut that sent her to the hospital.

Oh, well.

To this day I can see our Grandma Willie sweeping under her chinaberry tree. It was big and so often she was with her broom sweeping away the berries.

Trees were used to shade our family and to keep us warm.

Back in the day when we went camping, the campsites where we’d live for 6 to 7 days were selected based on the number of trees. There was no problem when we camped in the Smoky Mountains, but beach trips were another story. Most times we could get some shade at the beach, but that one year there was not a tree in sight, daddy crawled under the picnic table to read his books. We began searching for another campsite immediately.

Without trees there was

“TREES” CAN BE A HYMN OF PRAISE TO GOD’S CREATION

no vacation.

As school students we always rode the bus and after walking the 3/10 miles to the top of our dirt road to the paved road to catch our ride, my three sisters and I found warmth under a large pine tree with heavy branches that kept us warm and dry in the winter.

at our own house, walking to the woods was just what we did for fun. Creeks at both properties were literally icing on the cake.

as fast as they could from one tree to another and another, seemingly sharing the secrets of their lives.

If our parents were ready to go home, they’d honk the car horn and we’d come from the woods.

Sounds unreal. It happened and I clearly remember the adults enjoying it most of all.

reunions under the shade of the tree.

From trees came hickory switches, although I don’t think we ever got switched. That’s what our Grandma said to scare us into obedience.

Trees were vital to our family.

At a cousin reunion over the weekend, we talked about the days of walking to the woods as young children. We’d slide down the red dirt hill in the woods and the bravest of all would swing across the ravine on a sturdy grapevine from trees. The best fun ever, until about four of us grabbed the grapevine all at once and it broke.

Woods were the best part of growing up with cousins. At our Crawford grandparents’ house and

In the woods is where we built playhouses, tied our hammocks, built minigolf courses and where we’d stay with Mama when she gave herself a stinking home hair permanent.

The Flying Jenny was another extra from trees. With a tree stump and a plank nailed to the stump, we’d ride that homemade merry-go-round, squealing like crazy. No one ever worried about flying off and getting hit on the rebound, until you tried to get off the ground. Our family made up a soap opera story once while camping at Smokemont as we watched, literally for hours, squirrels running

My sisters and I pretended to have day jobs once after our parents went to work. With our kitchen knives, we trekked out to the woods and began shaving the bark off the trees. The cleaner, the better. Of course we weren’t tall people, so we didn’t cut a lot of bark. Our job lasted less than a day when we got caught. Seemed like a lot of fun to us.

Trees are where we hid, where my first basketball goal was placed and where we raked a million little leaves year after year. There’s a large oak tree in my backyard where for years we had family

The most beautiful place I’ve walked on this earth was a rainforest on the big island of Hawaii. As a friend and I walked one day for hours, I told her that was what heaven was going to look like. Never had I seen anything quite like the absolute gorgeous trees, flowers, waterfalls and all the greenery that surrounded us.

Trees give us life, health and strength and childhood memories to carry us through.

Take a hike in the woods. Hug a tree and thank God for trees.

He gave them to us and He gave us life through them.

Contact Jean: gordonjean211@gmail.com

Rutherford Regional Health System Wins Operations Excellence Award

Rutherford Regional Health System was honored by its parent company Lifepoint Health at an annual awards ceremony held in Dallas, Texas recently. The hospital received the 2023 Operations Excellence Award for the company’s eastern division of acute care facilities.

The Lifepoint Health Operations Excellence Award recognizes outstanding overall performance across the company’s acute care, rehabilitation and behavioral health business sectors.

The award is given to five facilities each year, including: one facility in each of the company’s three acute operating divisions, one inpatient rehabilitation hospital and one behavioral health hospital.

The award is given to exemplary facilities that have demonstrated a strong commitment to – and measurably improved – the following areas in the prior year: Quality improvement; Service line growth; Talent and workforce development and engagement; Expanding the facility’s leadership role in the community; and Financial performance.

“Rutherford Regional Health System is proud to receive this award, which highlights our entire team’s commitment to strengthening hospital operations, while advancing quality and healthcare delivery in Rutherford County and the surrounding region,” said Tory Shepherd , chief executive officer at Rutherford Regional

Health System. “We are guided each and every day by our mission of making communities healthier, and we look forward to continuing this momentum into 2024 and beyond.”

The award was accepted by hospital leaders Tory Shepherd, CEO; Jamie Hill, CNO; Allen Clayton, Interim CFO; John Bostwick, previous CFO.

“The hospital has made great strides over the past year in delivering high quality patient care and meeting specific quality benchmarks, while also achieving significant volume growth across key service lines and being a strong community partner,” said Jason Zachariah, EVP and chief operating officer at Lifepoint Health. “We are very proud to recognize the Rutherford Regional Health team with this well-deserved award.”

About Rutherford Regional Health System: Rutherford Regional Health System, part of Duke Lifepoint Healthcare, is a 143-bed acute care facility that offers a broad array of inpatient and outpatient care. Rutherford Regional is dedicated to providing patients with a full range of services to meet their healthcare needs across more than 23 medical specialties. For more information or to connect with Rutherford Regional, visit MyRutherfordRegional.com, or find us on Facebook.

About Lifepoint Health: Lifepoint Health is a leading healthcare provider that serves patients, clinicians,

Rutherford Weekly Sudoku

communities, and partner organizations across the healthcare continuum. Driven by a mission of making communities healthier®, the company has a growing diversified healthcare delivery network comprised of more than 50,000 dedicated employees, 60 community hospital campuses, more than 60 rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals and 250 additional sites of care, including managed acute rehabilitation units, outpatient centers and post-acute care facilities. Through its innovation strategy, Lifepoint Forward, the company is developing meaningful solutions to enhance quality, increase access to care, and improve value across the Lifepoint footprint and communities across the country. For more information about the company, visit www. LifepointHealth.net.

Article Provided By: Destiny Lane

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Gardner-Webb University (GWU) Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tim Craft has accepted the head coaching job at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. A national search for GWU’s next head coach has already begun. Associate Head Coach Jeremy Luther will serve as interim head coach.

“I want to thank and congratulate Tim Craft on his 11 years at Gardner-Webb,” GWU President Dr. William M. Downs affirmed. “His impact on players and fans will be positive and enduring, and Bulldog Nation will forever remember that magical March run six seasons ago when Coach Craft led our program to its first NCAA tournament appearance. On behalf of the University, I wish Tim and his family much success at the next stop in their journey.”

Craft firmly established himself as one of the Big South Conference’s premier basketball minds, winning 188 games through 11 seasons

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“This is a bittersweet day as we say goodbye to GardnerWebb and a community that we love so dearly,” Craft shared. “We believe that the Lord is leading us to a new, exciting opportunity for our family, but as we leave, we feel so blessed and thankful to have spent 11 years at GWU. We have made amazing memories here on and off the court, and we are so grateful for all those that have helped make them possible. I believe that GWU currently has outstanding leadership in place and will continue to thrive on the basketball court and in all areas in the future. The Craft family will always be big fans of the Runnin’ Bulldogs!”

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New Free Digital App

Enhances Support for People with Substance Use Disorder

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced today its partnership with CHESS Health and Trillium Health Resources to provide critically needed support for North Carolinians working toward recovery from substance use disorders. Through this partnership, NCDHHS will make available CHESS Health’s proven eRecovery program to help thousands of North Carolinians struggling with substance use disorders to achieve long-term recovery.

CHESS Health’s eRecovery program features the Connections app, a smartphone app that provides participants with immediate access to a team of certified peer recovery specialists available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It offers moderated peer support groups, on-demand digital cognitive behavioral therapy programs and a robust set of recovery tools. This solution is offered free of charge for North Carolinians who choose to enroll through their provider and download the app, funded fully by NCDHHS.

“We know there is no one-size-fits-all model to recovery,” said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services.

“We are pleased to provide

additional, evidence-based tool to support their recovery, when and where they need them.”

This smartphone application is not a substitute for clinical treatment, but rather an additional tool that can help people connect with other peers and receive additional recovery supports.

The CHESS Health eRecovery program will be introduced in phases to more than 100 organizations across North Carolina over the next two years. Organizations offering this solution will include substance use disorders and mental health providers, hospital-based substance use disorders programs, collegiate recovery programs, harm reduction programs, crisis hotlines, mobile response teams, drug courts, re-entry programs, recovery residences, certified community behavioral health clinics and local management entities.

“Our solution offers

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individuals a continuous ‘connectedness’ that has been shown to reduce feelings of isolation while providing a comfortable space for sharing feelings and celebrating milestones and achievements,” said Hans Morefield, Chief Executive Officer, CHESS Health. “Our Connections app helps individuals to manage risk moments - triggers, cravings, anxiety and negative thinking - that occur between visits, so they stay in treatment longer and realize a better, longterm quality of life.”

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis right now, help is available. Both the NCDHHS Peer Warmline and 988 are available to anyone, anytime. Call 855-733-7762 or call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org. People who speak Spanish can now connect directly to Spanishspeaking crisis counselors by calling 988 and pressing option 2, texting “AYUDA” to 988, or chatting online at 988lineadevida.org or 988Lifeline.org.

Article Provided By: ncdhhs

Obituaries Obituaries

Dr. Keith Ezell

Dr. Keith Ezell, age 54 of Harris, NC, died Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

Keith was born September 24, 1969, in Spartanburg County, SC and was a son of Dorothy Robbins Cooper and the late Larry Eugene Ezell.

He was a member of Sulphur Springs Baptist Church where he served as both Choir and Youth & Children’s Director.

He was a graduate of Chase High School and the University of North Carolina at Asheville as well as earning both a Masters and Doctorate of Education from Gardner-Webb University.

He began his teaching career at Rutherfordton Elementary School and later served as Assistant Principal at Spindale Elementary School. He went on to become Principal at Mt. Vernon-Ruth Elementary School and finally as Principal at Harris Elementary School where he retired. He was especially honored to serve as Principal at Harris Elementary, the school where his educational journey began.

Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Angela Toney Ezell, his sons, Noah, Jacob, and Jonah Ezell, his mother and step-father, Dorothy Robbins Cooper and Stanley Cooper of Rutherfordton, his brothers, Rev. Bryan Ezell and wife Sharon, and Scott Ezell and wife Pam, all of Rutherfordton, his step-sis-

ter, Beth Biggerstaff and husband Billy of Chesnee, as well as nieces and nephews.

The funeral was held March 16 at Holly Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Ethan Gardner and Rev. Sidney Calhoun officiating. Memorials may be made to Sulphur Springs Baptist Church, 221 Sulphur Springs Church Rd., Forest City, NC 28043.

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

Jim Kenny

Jim Kenny, age 58, of Forest City, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024.

Jim was born December 20, 1965 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late Edgar G. Kenny and Margaret Jean Sauter Kenny. He earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Massachusetts/Lowell. Jim worked as an Environmental Engineer and was a Real Estate Developer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ed Kenny, Jr.; sister, Kate Edwards.

Left to treasure his memory are his children, Kyle, Jake and Caroline Kenny; sister, Laura (Alex) MacDonald of Hanson, MA; brothers, Bill (Sue) Kenny of Hebron, NH, Paul (Eileen) Kenny of Mashpee, MA and a brother-in-law, Ralph “Butch” Edwards of Forest

When Mary, the mother of Jesus, held her son for the first time she knew that there was something unique about him. She understood that this little one would change the course of history. He would be the Savior of the world. While they looked upon him, they called his name Immanuel which means, “God with us.”

Thirty-three years later, Mary is now standing at the foot of a cruel Roman Cross beholding her son. He is suspended between heaven and earth, his beaten, bloodied and bruised body is on display for all to see. The torture has made him almost unrecognizable. She weeps as she hears the crowd mock and curse him. He cries out, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Darkness then covers the earth for the space of three hours as the judgement of God’s wrath is poured out upon His body and soul. The Son of God is literally suffering hell for all of mankind. Jesus cries out once more, “My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me?” He alone is bearing the past,

City. A gathering of family and friends was held March 14 at Harrelson Funeral Home.

Memorial donations requested to MSPCA (Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), www.mspca.org

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

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

White

Tulan Merck White, age 86 of Ellenboro, died Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

Tulan was born August 5, 1937, in Rutherford County and was a daughter of the late Paul and Emma Frady Marlowe. She was a member of Concord Baptist Church and retired from the Inspection Department at National Textiles.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Paul Marlowe, Jr., and brother-inlaw, Jerry Bridges.

Survivors include her son, Dennis Merck and wife Denise of Ellenboro, her sister, Joyce Bridges of Ellenboro, her sister-in-law, LaDean Marlowe of Portland, OR, her grandsons, Daniel Merck and wife Nancy, and Daniel Merck and wife Toni, five great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and one cousin Nancy Campbell.

The funeral was held

present and future sins of the entire human race.

After six hours of excruciating physical pain, Jesus then declares from his parched and swollen lips, “It is finished!” The debt of mankind’s sin has been paid in full. He has provided a perfect sacrifice, “Once for all.” The Just dying for the Unjust. The lingering question is, “Who killed Jesus?” Could finite man possibly kill the Infinite God? No man murdered Jesus. He obediently and willingly laid his life down. The final cry from the cross is proof, as He yields to his wounds and humbly says, “Father into your hands, I commend my spirit,” It was at that moment in time that the incarnate Son of God bowed His head and died. This is the day that God died, so that we all might live.

March 17 at Concord Baptist Church with Rev. Travis Laflin officiating.

Memorials may be made to Concord Baptist Church, Building Fund, PO Box 70, Bostic, NC 28018.

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

Sheryl Ann

Holland Ash

Sheryl Ann Holland Ash, age 64, of Rutherfordton, NC, went to her Heavenly Home Sunday, March 10, 2024.

A native of Shelby County, TN, Sheryl was the daughter of the late Steve and Rose Holland. Sheryl was a member at Crestview Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, Sheryl was preceded in death by her brother, Bert Holland.

Sheryl is survived by her husband of 28 years, Tommy Ash, one son, Brandon Jennings Lee, stepson, Kyle Thomas Ash, stepdaughter, Kaylee Jo Ash, one sister, Mary Ellen Durkee and her husband Dave, one brother, Edward C. Holland and his wife Marie, and three grandchildren.

The memorial service was held at McMahan’s Funeral Home Chapel March 15 with Rev. Kevin Rhom officiating.

Thomas William

Roberson

Thomas William Roberson, 64, passed away March 13, 2024.

He was born July 29, 1959, in Mooresville, NC, to Dorothy and George Roberson.

On June 8, 1996, he married Evelyn Deck Roberson. He founded City Computer of Forest City and did IT work for many businesses. He was the president of the Kiwanis for a year as well as commissioner for the town of Spindale for many years. He helped create many beneficial changes for Spindale, including being one of the founders of the Rail Trail. He was a pilot, bass player, and lifelong learner.

He is survived by his wife Evelyn Roberson; daughter Rachel Roberson; mother Dorothy Hutchins; and brother James Roberson.

In addition to his father, Tom was preceded in death by his sister Sandra Faye Humphries.

A celebration of life was held at Spindale United Methodist Church March 16.

Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to Kiwanis of Forest City, to Rutherford Outdoor Coalition www.rutherfordoutdoor.org or to Toys to Tots www.ncmcl.org/1221. html. Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.

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

Doris Henson

Doris Henson, age 85, of Forest City, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

Doris was born March 15, 1938 in Rutherford County to the late Samuel Lowery and Cora Lee Wilkerson.

She had a long and dedicated career at various places of employment which included Fiber Industries, at the J.C. Cowan Plant, helping with the education of special needs youth at ICC, for Rutherford County Public Schools at Proctor Elementary and Carver Elementary and in a support role for NASA during the space race in the 1960’s.

Doris was a past member of High Shoal Baptist Church. She is currently a member of Floyd’s Creek Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Bobby Gene Henson; 10 siblings, Grace Holland, Lily Louise Swink, Bertie Spratt, Ruth Bailey, Mary Frances Lowery, James Lowery, Dewitt Lowery, Jack Lowery, Whitey Lowery and Dub Lowery.

Those left to treasure her memory include her son Ricky Henson and daughter, Tammy (Bobby) Adair all of Forest City; sister-in-law, Hazel Lowery of Ellenboro; three grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren.

The funeral was held March 18 at Floyd’s Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Robert Carnell officiating.

Memorial donations requested to Parking Lot Fund at Floyd’s Creek Baptist Church, 2004 Chase High Rd., Forest City, NC 28043.

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

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Obituaries Obituaries

Shirley C. Biancardi

Shirley C. Biancardi, age 81, of Forest City, passed away Saturday, March 16. 2024

Shirley was born July 28, 1942, in Spring Creek, NC to the late D.J. Cogdill and Gay Wright Fleming. She worked in the sales industry most her life and Co-owned and operated Cardinal Realty for many years. She was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Terry Havro; stepfather, Virgil Fleming and sister, Maude Smith.

Those left to treasure her memory include her husband of 40 years, Patrick J. Biancardi; daughter, Sherry Gregg of Mooresboro; son, Jerry Havro, Jr. (Wendy) of Forest City; stepsons, Robert Biancardi (Amy) of West Linn, OR and Gregory Biancardi of Forest City; brother, Robert Clouse of Sacramento, CA; nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was held March 25 at Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Dale Austin officiating.

Memorial donations requested to Salvation Army https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/cleveland-rutherford/

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

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Patsy McCraw

Patsy McCraw, age 84, of Henrietta, passed away Thursday, March 14, 2024.

Patsy was born December 23, 1939 in Rutherford County to the late Ed Hodge, Sr. and Ruth Brooks Hodge.

She was a graduate of Ellenboro High School. Patsy worked in textiles for several years and at PPG Industries for 23 years before retirement. She was a longtime member of High Shoal Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 31 years, Claude McCraw; a son, Glenn McCraw and brothers, Ed Hodge, Jr. and

Hoyt Hodge. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Rhonda Tipton (Randy) of Henrietta and Shelly Mashburn (Donnie Hudson of Henrietta) of Casar; brother, Billy Dean Hodge (Yoshi) of Newport News, VA; two grandsons, two great-grandchildren.

The funeral was held March 20 at High Shoal Baptist Church with Rev. Shane Adkins officiating.

Memorial donations requested to High Shoal Baptist Church, PO Box 386, Henrietta, NC 28076.

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

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Jerry Donald Baldwin

Jerry Donald Baldwin age 64 went home to be with his Lord and Savior, March 16, 2024.

Jerry was the son of Eula Faye and the late James Earl Baldwin.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Sherri Baldwin, and son Robert Jack Hayter; grandson Stephen Ray Hayter; siblings Larry, Paula, Kathy, and Ronnie.

Jerry was a retired food and safety inspector.

A graveside service to honor Jerry’s life was held March 20 at Son Rise Holiness Church.

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

Lillian Holt

Lillian Holt, age 63, of Forest City, passed away

Thursday, March 14.

Lillian was born February 26, 1960 in Rutherford County to the late Sylvester Lee Holt and Dorothy Biddy Holt Harvey. She was a member of the Church of the Exceptional.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sisters, Pat Kanipe, Pauline Givens and Alice Faye Herring; brothers, Sonny, Lee and Franky Herring.

Survivors include a number of nieces and nephews which includes her caretaker and nephew, Tony Herring of Forest City.

A graveside service was held March 19 at Cool Springs Cemetery with Rev. Mattie Lackey and Rev. Alan Hoover officiating.

Memorial donations requested to Church of the Exceptional, PO Box 46, Caroleen, NC 28019 and Henderson Care Activity Fund, PO Box 648, Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Errol Stanley Gibbs

Errol Stanley Gibbs, 84, of Rutherfordton, passed away March 13, 2024.

He was a husband of 62 years to Jewarl W. Gibbs.

Errol’s mechanical prowess was renowned, earning him the reputation of a master mechanic who could fix just about anything.

Born to Hubert Frank Gibbs and Martha Mildred Catherine Webster Gibbs, Errol’s legacy of love and dedication lives on through his family.

He is survived by his daughters Candy Gibbs and husband Dan Michael, and Katharine Blanton and husband Derek Blanton,

A funeral service was held March 16 at Gilkey United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. MacKenzie Gary and Rev. David Blanton.

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

Henry Todd Burgess

Henry Todd Burgess, age 62 of Mooresboro, NC, passed away Friday, March 15, 2024.

He was born November 17, 1961 in Cleveland County to the late Horace Burgess and the late Dorothy Guyton Burgess.

Henry is survived by his wife Nancy Owens Burgess, his daughter Amy Burgess Noblett, his son T.C. Burgess, one granddaughter, one grandson, sister Martha Jean Byars and husband James Arnold, step son Wade Martin, many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Henry was preceded in death by his son Michael Sides, brothers; Jack Burgess and Claude Burgess.

The family will conduct their own memorial service Sunday, March 24 at 4pm at Mount Pleasant Baptist

On

Students from North Carolina State University (NCSU) spent their spring break in Rutherford County helping roof a house in Sandy Mush. The students partnered with the Women Roofers, Rutherford Housing Partnership and Habitat for Humanity as they worked Monday March 11 through Saturday, March 16 to complete the roofing project. LT Construction was also thanked for stepping up and lending a helping hand along the way.

Resources Available as Sports Betting Becomes Legal in North Carolina

As sports betting becomes legal in North Carolina, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is increasing its efforts to prevent, treat and help those experiencing harm related to problem gambling. This comes as Governor Roy Cooper proclaimed March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Approximately 5.5% of adults and 10% of youth in North Carolina experience problems related to

gambling, and an additional seven to 20 people in their families and communities are then impacted as well. Problem gambling, or gambling addiction, is any gambling behavior that disrupts someone’s life, or the lives of people close to them, such as parents, siblings or friends.

“Promoting healthy behaviors and providing prevention education at all ages helps to decrease the stigma associated with problem gambling,”

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services. “We are engaging with community partners and educators to increase outreach to spread the message that free help is available and recovery is possible if gambling becomes more than a game.”

House Bill 347 allocates an additional $2 million in the state budget to help prevent, treat and provide services related to problem gambling. In preparation for the launch of sports betting, NCDHHS refocused prevention programs and education programs for treatment providers to concentrate more heavily on sports betting.

Smith’s Drugs has sold more than 56 copies of the book “It’s About Jesus” 48 copies of “Heart On Wheels”, the book about Tommy Hicks have sold. Only two copies left and it will not be reprinted.

Some of the initiatives to support people experiencing problem gambling include:

• Partnering with EPIC Risk Management to provide prevention education on college campuses about risks associated with sports betting.

• Funding the Gambling Research and Policy Initiative and working with ECU to better research and understand gambling behavior, attitudes and risks.

• Partnering with Tar Heel Athletics to promote problem gambling and responsible gaming campaign during March Madness

• Supporting NC Problem Gambling Programs to provide prevention education for college students at Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, High Point University and Chowan University this spring.

• Working with UNC Behavioral Health Springboard to put together learning modules for behavioral health providers on prevention of and treatment of youth problem gambling.

• Offering Youth Prevention Grants to middle schools, high schools and community organizations to implement gambling, gaming and digital media youth prevention curriculum.

• Partnering with Freedom House of Mecklenburg Inc.

and Charlotte Mecklenburg

Schools to incorporate problem gambling awareness into the health curriculum for 14,000 7thgrade health classes.

The NCDHHS North Carolina Problem Gambling Program also continues to offer its services to help people maintain a healthy relationship with gambling or abstain completely. Those services include counseling and peer support. People can call the North Carolina Problem Gambling Helpline at 877-718-5543 to learn more. Currently, NCDHHS is working with its contacts to ensure providers and the helpline can handle an increase in calls.

Signs of problem gambling include:

• Using sports betting to relieve stress or depressive feelings

• Spending increasing amounts of time or money on gambling

• Preoccupation and irritability when trying to cut back or not gambling

money that was lost gambling)

• Lying or being secretive about gambling

• Attempting to cut back without success

• Only talking about wins and never losses

If you or someone you care about shows signs of a gambling problem, no cost, confidential help is available. For support, call the North Carolina Problem Gambling Hotline at 877-718-5543, text morethanagamenc to 53342 or visit the morethanagame. nc.gov website. Additionally, if you or someone you love is struggling with mental health you can call or text 988 any time or call 1-855 PEERS NC to talk with someone who has similar experiences. Both services are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

Article Provided By: ncdhhs

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND

HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or 704-297-0103

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING LANDSCAPERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR

ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

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

HELP NEEDED PART TIME: Handicap lady needs help with pets, house, etc. Call for details. $10 hour. 828-305-1834. Leave message.

NEED MAN FOR YARDWORK. Install fence. Also need woman for greenhouse/yardwork. Cash. Lawndale. (704) 300-4530

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

WE BUY STANDING TIMBER! Also: Lot clearing, haul rocks, tree work. Please call 828-429-4742 or 828-2899756.

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

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

FOR REASONABLE RATE LAWN SERVICE. Call (704) 472-4737

CHERRYVILLE BOARDING & GROOMING. Boarding and Grooming Services for Dogs and Cats. We offer grooming at our SHOP and MOBILE. (704) 445-8494 CherryvilleAnimalBG@gmail.com

D&S LAWN CARE. CALL FOR YOUR SPRING CLEANUP NEEDS. MOWING, TRIMMING, MULCH, HEDGE TRIMMING, DEBRIS REMOVAL, FLOWER BEDS. RUTHERFORD & POLK COUNTY. 828582-0314.

LAWN CARE If you need Lawn Care, Mowing, Trimming or Blowing, call 980522-3335.

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.

*WATERPROOFING, *MOLD TREATMENT, *GUTTER CLEANING. Residential & Business. Free estimates. Call (980) 245-1134

BUSINESS SERVICES

CAMERA VIDEO AUDIO TV INSTALLATION. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO INSTALL HOME SECURITY CAMERAS? OR AUDIO/VIDEO/TV MOUNTS. IF SO, GIVE ME A CALL 704-466-2333 (704) 4662333

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.

THE CONTRACTOR. Painting, roofing, tile floors, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Ask for Jim or Harold 828-429-7511 or 828-395-3601.

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

MAID FOR JESUS. Residential and Commercial Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, one time cleaning. Phone: (828) 4290568 ngev77@gmail.com

AUCTIONS

PATTERSON SPRINGS

STORAGE AUCTION. PUBLIC SALE - 9AM, Mar 22nd, 2024 at Patterson Springs Storage, 1826 Creek Ridge Rd., Shelby, NC. Contents of Units: #82 Autry, #76 Burelson for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 473-7358

YARD SALES

ANTIQUES

BIG ESTATE SALE. Sat., March 23, 2024 from 8am til 1pm. Lots of great items, too much to list! Located at 1019 Allendale Dr., (off Hwy. 18 N.) Shelby, NC 28150

FOR SALE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

FREE BREAKFAST: EGGS, BACON, SAUSAGE, LIVERMUSH BREAKFAST. Easter

Sunday-March 31st, 8:45 am9:45 am. Cornerstone Church, 202 Margrace Rd, Kings Mountain. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

YARD SALE. SAT, MARCH 23rd, 6 am-Until. Clothes, Electronics, Tools, Household items, etc. (near Kings Mountain High) 316 Maner Rd, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

3 FAMILY YARD SALE Sat., Mar 23rd, 7 am-Until. A little bit of everything. 1698 Crestland Dr, Shelby, NC 28150

YARD SALE. SAT., MARCH 23rd, 8 am-1 pm. Dirt Bike, 4 wheeler, vintage clothing apparel, shoes, purses, luggage & misc. 1821 McBrayer Spring Rd. Shelby, NC 28150

MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE.

Sat Mar 23rd, 2024 from 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM. TV Stand, Books, Clothes, Comforter Sets, Lawn Mower, Pictures, Barf Stools, Household Items, & Lots & lots more. NO EARLY BIRDS. (Mountain View Farm Event Barn Pavilion) Enter at gate, parking on right, sale inside pavilion. 1409 West Statecoach Trail, Lawndale, NC 28090

NATURALLY UNIQUE ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

LLC Presents an estate tag sale. Fri 3/22 2pm-7-m & 3/23 9am-2pm. Furniture, holiday, antiques, Pyrex, and so much more. 1751 Country Garden Drive, Shelby, NC 28150

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

LARGE INDOOR ESTATE

TAG SALE. Rain or Shine! Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23. Both days 7:30AM-2PM at 500 Padgett Road, Union Mills (Gilkey community). Household, furniture, rocking chair, recliner, microwave, costume jewelry, rice bed, lots of kitchenware, big selection of corning ware, Pyrex, old Tupperware, 2 Vacuums, ceramic Christmas tree, cast iron pieces, Lane cedar chest, women’s clothes and shoes, collectibles, Toro electric start push mower, edger, yard cart, 2 compressors, log splitter, wheel barrow, drill press, miscellaneous tools, yard tools, Craftsman gas pruner, push seed planter, pull spreader for mower, chain saws, and other. Mid-century matching dresser & chest, vintage 60’s working hair dryer, sofa chairs, breakfast & dining table, curio cabinet, 60’s toy riding horse, crystal, vintage sewing machine. House full and two out buildings of items. 500 Padgett Road, Union Mills (in the Gilkey community). Union Mills, NC 28167

GARAGE SALE: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday; March 24, 25 26, 11AM-4PM. Miscellaneous items. Toaster ovens, microwaves, rugs. 228 Griffin Rd., Forest City, NC 28043

2 LARGE OLD STEEL wood heaters. $250.00 each. Call 828-305-3272 between 8am and 8pm.

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

WRANGLER A/T $500.00 SET OF 4 GOODYEAR WRANGLER 275/65R 18 M+S 60% TREAD. WILLIAMSTON, NC. 252-799-1894 (252) 799-1894

SMALL STOVE WOOD. Cut, split and delivered, was $75. Price reduced to $65! Throw off load only. 828-395-0758.

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER

TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 538-5788

WE’VE GOT THE KNIVES &COINS! 1 OZ. SILVER BARS & ROUNDS Available (While Supplies Last)* at Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Large On Site Display”. Concrete Pads, Grading, Plumbing, Electrical. “One Stop Shop For All !” J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, 2690 Hwy. 221 South. (828) 245-5895

BLUE LOVE SEAT. Like new, pillows included. (704) 8604247

CUSTOM CLASSIC CUTTING BOARDS. Some with imported color wood. (704) 692-1127

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

TRAILERS NEW5X10 WITH

Tires, Lights, Gates, Ramps, etc. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, (828) 245-5895

TINY HOUSE / OFFICE UNIT.

12’ X 28’. Small Kitchen, 1/2 Bath, TV on Wall, Heat & Air. $35,900. Deliver & Blocked. “Financing Available”. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City. (828) 245-5895

SOFA $800/OBO Light gray

Reclining Sofa w/Matching Rocker Recliner, Like new, Purchased 6weeks ago. (704) 297-0736 rcamp51@outlook. com

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

GUITAR & BANJO FOR SALE

Gibson J45-50 Guitar, Gibson Mastertone Banjo. Both in good condition and a good case. 704-538-8306.

2010 NISSAN VERSA.

128,000 Miles, New Tires & Brakes $3800. $1100 Scooter, Needs Battery - Will sell for $200. $200 Insulated Dog House - Will sell for $75 OBO. Weight Bench, Weights & Bars $50. Call 704-750-3182.

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828980-0853, 704-476-9383.

KEROSENE HEATER, like new $70. Large Igloo doghouse $60. Two aluminum loading ramps for truck, used twice $80. 828-286-4426.

L3301 KUBOTA TRACTOR

4x4 Hyd. Top & Side Link. Gear Shift, Shuttle 3rd Function valve, Front end loader. less than 200 hrs. $22,500. 704616-0309.

FOR SALE

2006 VICT ECLOSED TRAILER Side door and let down back door. $4000 (980) 3187204 linda.bowen5343@gmail.

com

OVAL SHAPED OAK TABLE w/8 chairs. Good condition. $495. 2-leafs, 2-pedestals. 2HP electric Air Compressor, w/20 gallon tank. $195. 828289-1817.

WANT TO BUY

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.

WANT TO BUY CARS& TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006

CASH FOR YOUR CAR.

Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-692-6767, (704) 487-0228

I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197

WANT TO BUY. ATV’s, PopUp Campers and Small Travel Trailers. Call 828-429-3935.

WE’LL BUY YOUR UNWANTED VEHICLES. Cash! Title Preferred. Charlie at 980-4035859.

RECORD PLAYER & ROLLAWAY BED Record player that uses an adapter with high spindle in the middle. Call 704-473-0467.

WANT TO BUY CARS& TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006

FARM & GARDEN

MAHINDRA TRACTOR. Four wheel drive, belly mower, front end loader, only 17 hours, $15,000 firm. 828-429-2723.

GARDEN TILLING SERVICES

AVAILABLE Tractor with 6’ rototiller. No job too big or small ! (704) 692-4079

BOATS

FISHING BOAT FOR SALE.

16ft Mirror Craft fishing boat, Shorelander Trailer, Minn Kota Trolling Motor, 50 hp Evinrude Outboard. Have manuals and paperwork, $2200. Recently serviced. Cranks right up. Call or text to discuss or see. (704) 418-7154

BOATS

OUTBOARD MOTORS: 1974 Johnson 25HP $400. 1985 Honda 4 stroke, 5HP $400. Good condition. Leave message 828-287-2988.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

YORKSHIRE TERRIER PUPPIES. Traditional Yorkie babies. Raised in our home. Tails docked, dewclaws removed, dewormed, vet checked, first shots. Ready to go March 3rd, 2024. Shelby NC area. 1,000 for females, $800 for males. Check us out on puppies.com for more pictures. Don’t forget to read our testimonies! 704-689-4163 (704) 689-4163

AKC REGISTERED LAB

PUPS 8 male, 3 females. Chocolate & black. $800 each. Taking deposits now. Ready for new home April 15th. 704-6921627 or 704-842-4436.

GOLDENDOODLE CATAHOULA MIX PUPPIES. Litter of 11 Goldendoodle/Catahoula Puppies. Merle Puppies 400.00. Black puppies 200.00 (704) 214-9775 tobedunn66@ gmail.com

BULLDOG PIT MIX PUPPIES for sale. $30. Parents on site. Call 704-312-9037. Ask for Julious.

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

TAKING APPLICATIONS. 10 acre pasture with creek and barn $200 month. For more info call 704-473-0867.

ROTTWEILER PUPPIES. Imported Champion Working Lines. Available March 29. AKC. $1800. each. 828-7557335.

MEDIUM MIXED BREED

DOG. 1.5 years old. Possible Heeler mix. Up to date on vaccines. GSD/Malinois dog, energetic female. 18 months old. Free to good home. 828755-7335.

3 MONTH OLD MALE, Toy Australian Shepherd. Registered with ASDR. S&W UTD, red Merle. Asking $500. 704418-6454 cell, 704-482-0178 home.

3 FREE KITTENS. 8 to 10 weeks old. Free $10 with each kitten. (704) 313-7732

PETS & LIVESTOCK

ITALIAN DANIFF PUPPIES.

DESCRIPTION: ITALIAN DANIFF BASIC PRICE: $1500 (BLUE) EXOTIC PRICE : $2500 (MERLE)

TYPE : AVAILABLE DOB: FEBRUARY 4TH 2024 PUPPY SEX : MALE + FEMALE LOCATION : ELLENBORO NC USA WELCOME TO THE HOLTSCLAW FARM DESIGNER KENNEL WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL MASSIVE TRUE ITALIAN DANIFFS. WE HAVE A GREAT REPUTATION AND COMMUNICATION OVER THE YEARS. WE STRIVE TO BREED BEAUTIFUL STRONG HEALTHY PUPPIES WITH HEALTH GUARANTEE MEDICAL RECORDS AND COMES WITH A WELCOME HOME BASKET. OUR PUPPIES COME WITH TAILS DOCKED AS THIS BREED IS KNOWN TO HAVE VERY DANGEROUS TAILS AT THIS SIZE. WE DON’T OFFER EAR CLIPPING AS OUR VET DOES NOT OFFER THIS AND MOST VETS WILL ONLY DO IT FROM 12 TO 16 WEEKS OLD. OUR PUPPIES ARE WELL SOCIALIZED HERE ON THE FARM WITH TEACUP DOGS TO MASSIVE BREEDS CATS CATTLE AS WELL AS CHILDREN OF ALL AGES. BASIC TRAINING IS STARTED WHILE WAITING PICKUP. THIS INCLUDES PUPPY PAD TRAINING WITH TRANSITION TO HOUSEBREAKING. BASIC COMMANDS AS SIT STAY LEAVE IT THIS IS VERY VITAL DURING THE 1ST 12 WEEKS AS YOUR PUPPY WILL GROW FAST AND BE VERY STRONG OBEDIENCE IS A MUST WITH SUCH A LARGE BREED. (828) 305-1345 THEHOLTSCLAWFARM@GMAIL.COM

CARS & TRUCKS

CARS & TRUCKS

2011 DODGE DAKOTA TRUCK. Automatic, V6, 79,856 miles. Clean, runs great, good tires. $11,500 negotiable. Cash or cashier’s check. 704-2975869.

1999 FORD TAURUS XE. If you are interested in buying car call 704-240-8023.

2009 HYUNDAI SONATA Metallic brown, 4 door, 4 cal, 133K miles. All maintenance records. (704) 860-4247

2016 FORD FUSION. BURGUNDY, AUTOMATIC, 4 cylinder, A/C, Power Seats, Cruise, Alloy Wheels, Power Windows & Locks, 131,782 miles, $8495, (704) 482-0441

CAMPERS

2021 T@B 320S BOONDOCK

Teardrop Camper. Light grey with black trim. Excellent condition. Stored in garage. $20,000 or Best Offer! Price includes: All Pro Awning for T@b 320. All Pro locking extra storage tub. JackIt BikeWing bike rack. Camco Rhino 15 gal. portable Camper/ RV tote tank with an assortment of hoses and attachments. Set of leveling blocks. If interested, please call Kathy at (704) 4721378

2018 THOR MOTOR HOME. Price $54,100. 13064 miles. Call Wayne for information. (704) 300-3578

$4490. 828-289-1817.

2005 GMC YUKON. VERY GOOD condition, 120K on motor, 70K on transmission, lots of new parts, dependable. $3500. 828-702-2333.

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

1991 HARLEY DAVIDSON

ULTRA CLASSIC $3000. Blue in color, needs a battery. Been kept in dry! Call 980-318-7204 linda.bowen5343@gmail.com

HARLEY MOTORCYCLE

SEATS & HELMETS. Excellent condition, includes Mustang seat. Call for more information. 828-289-1817.

VACATIONS

WASHINGTON DC TRIP. June 10th through the 14th. I will be hosting a trip to Washington DC to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture and many more historical sites. We will be staying at the Fairfield Inn & Suites downtown Washington DC. Each room sleeps up to four people. The cost for the week is 1,200 per room. I will be chartering a bus as well this will be a separate charge. You have until May 10th to pay for the room in full. Washington, DC 20001 (704) 905-6665 rhondacamp@yahoo.com

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

POLK COUNTY

SUNNYVIEW, NC FOR SALE BY OWNER. Convenient location, 4 acre wooded house lot on quiet country road. $52,000. Owner financing available. 828-429-3287.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704-739-0259.

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. Weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299

2014 R-POD 178 TRAVEL

TRAILER: Excellent condition, full kitchen, heat/ air, sleeps 4, many extras, $11,000. Appointments: 828447-8475.

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

1979 HARLEY DAVIDSON. SUPER GLIDE. FOR SALE. Motorcycle can be seen at Metrolina Motorsports in Kings Mountain on Hwy 161. (Off 74 bypass) 864-425-9123.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT.

Warren Street in Shelby NC. (828) 748-9168

STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT. 803 S. Lafayette St., Shelby NC. 80 to 320 sq. ft. per unit. Starting at $100. 704-214-4180

HICKORY CREEK APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS. (62 and older), disabled (50 and older). Shelby. Now taking applications for waiting list. 418 East Warren Street, Shelby. (704) 487-6354

LAUREL HILL APARTMENTS

LOCATED IN SHELBY NC. Is currently accepting applications for our 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes. Rent is based on income (and even some expenses are deducted). Call or visit today! 1526 Eaves Road, Shelby, NC or call for more information. Equal Housing Opportunity. (704) 487-1114

LOT SPACE FOR RENT FOR CAMPER. 1624-7 S. Post Rd., Shelby, NC. $500 monthly; $375 deposit. Includes up to $125 in utilities. Application Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

CAMPER FOR RENT. 680 NC HWY 226 OT#16., Casar, NC, Rent $875, Deposit $875, Includes up to $125 in utilities. App Fee $25 per adult. 704214-4180.

CAMPER FOR RENT. 100B Kentbury Drive, Grover, NC $ 1275 RENT, $1275 Deposit, Includes power/water. App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE

HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $700 per month. 828-382-0475.

OAKLAND- 2 bedroom apartment, like new. SS appliances. $695 plus deposit and references. Only well qualified apply. 828-351-3322.

BIG TRUCK PARKING. $25 per night. 803 S. Lafayette St, Shelby, NC. 704-214-4180.

LOCK TITE STORAGE. Units available for rent at 209 South Main Street, Boiling Springs, NC. (704) 434-7800

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE. Has 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications now. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 4827723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@ RPMMANAGED.COM

215 LILY STREET, SHELBY, NC. 3 bedroom 1 bath house. Rent $995, Deposit $995, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-2144180.

ONE LARGE AND TWO SMALL rooms. All utilities furnished. Suitable for offices, hot dog stand, donut shop. $750/ month. Call 828-223-1112.

2 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES for rent. Ellenboro area. No calls after 9pm. Call 828-3051650 or 828-755-5257.

THREE BEDROOM, JUST REMODELED. Quiet, wooded, mature mobile home park. Landlord on site. Nationwide background check. No pets. 828-429-9276.

2007 NISSAN SENTRA. Alloy wheels, sunroof, leather interior, new exhaust, new tires, runs great, $4000. 828-289-7488.

1995 TOYOTA COROLLA Wagon DX. 100K miles, white, in good condition, looks and runs good, all power, A/C.