Dangers to Your Dogs

Books

FATAL FANTASY, Grace Street Mystery #8

REVIEWED BY Cindy Martin

Private Investigator David Randall and his psychic sidekick Camden are all set to attend ExtravaganzaCon, featuring the Enforcettes, science fiction authors, movie props and memorabilia, and more, when things turn dark and two murders occur at the convention center. The first victim is Sean Snyder, a skeptic on a mission to expose the falseness of all things paranormal. Second is the rude, ill-mannered author of the Dark Star Series, Iris Hudson. While searching for the killer, Randall encounters a lofty Faerie Queen, an obtuse Green Hornet/Batman, and artist Leena Fay whose ghastly paintings may be hiding a clue to the murderer in plain sight. In addition to dealing with the murder and mayhem at ExtravaganzaCon, Randall is searching for the “Angel of Truth,” who is posting parodies on YouTube of local Pastor Ingram of the Freedom Path United Church of the Revelation. Normally, Randall wouldn’t take on the case of the pompous pastor, but, since the reverend turns out to be his sweetheart Kary’s estranged father and she asks him to help, he is determined to locate the perpetrator and settle the score. Once again, author Jane Tesh’s cast of colorful characters and riveting plot do not disappoint. I couldn’t put this one down. Published by Savvy Press, available for purchase at local independent bookstores, as well as at Amazon and other online booksellers. To learn more about the author, visit http://www.janetesh.com.

Life On MAin, The Heart and Soul of America

REVIEWED BY Cindy Martin

Calvin Vaughn, Jr.’s Life On Main is not only a guidebook with a plethora of information about things to do and see around Mount Airy, NC, it is also a collection of stories about 25 locals and the life-changing events which ultimately affected their destinies. In this moving and inspirational portrayal of Vaughn’s beloved hometown, he illuminates the spirit of Mount Airy and explains why he feels it is, indeed, the greatest small town in America.

Readers also learn why Mount Airy is often referred to as “Mayberry,” and why millions flock to the town every year to capture that idyllic feeling of simpler times.

Life on MAin is available for purchase online and at Pages Bookstore in Mount Airy, as well as at other independent bookstores.

The ribbon cutting for the addition to the Shepherd’s House at 246 Spring Street in Mount Airy was held in January, and for Executive Director Jana Elliott, Shelter Manager Jessica Stevens, Operation Manager Troy Walkup, and their staff the future looks bright. It was not so long ago that many folks had to be turned away simply because there was room for only 18 occupants.

The new 64-bed facility can house more clients and offer educational opportunities and more resources for honing the residents’ job and life skills, thus creating a pathway to employment. “We now have the means to provide clients with a GED program, tutoring service, resume building assistance, professional development courses, SERV Safe training, cooking skills training, life skills and parenting classes, and possibly secondary education classes,” Elliott said.

As the Executive Director of the Greater Mount Airy Ministry of Hospitality (the parent company to The Shepherd’s House Homeless Shelter and Helping Hands Foundation of Surry

caring hearts

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40

HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL AT THE SHEPHERD’S HOUSE

County), Elliott is in hopes of partnering with various organizations to meet the needs of the Shepherd’s House residents. She wants to work with the faith community to provide faith-based programs; with exercise and fitness professionals to implement healthy living classes and exercise programs; and with mental health workers to provide on-site consultations and visits.

Nineteen years ago, a committee of Christians led by David Simmons and Berta Glenn Springthorpe established the original Shepherd’s House when they recognized the need to provide a safe haven for those less fortunate. The mission of the Shepherd’s House team remains the same today as they continue to strive to end homelessness and empower families so they may achieve self-sufficiency.

By November 2021, the Shepherd’s House had served over 2,650 clients and provided 77,770 nights of shelter and 220,072 meals, 930 group services, and 33,880+ casework hours.

The entire Shepherd’s House team is ever so grateful for contributions of the Springthorpe Family, the State Employees Credit Union, private donors, and the many other organizations who have given so generously to make this dream a reality. Obtaining funding to continue their great works is always on the forefront. If you would like to contact the Shepherd’s House, call 336-786-1420 or email them at sheltermanager@shepherdshousema.org.

You can contribute online at https://sherpherdshousema.org or mail donations to P.O. Box 1722, Mt. Airy, NC 27030.

WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Cindy Martin