Approximately 200 senior citizens are set to participate in the annual Rutherford County Senior Games beginning Monday, April 13 with an opening ceremony at 8:30am at the Senior Center on Callahan Koon Road in Spindale.
Participants, families, and community members are invited to attend. A highlight of the morning will be the ceremonial torch lighting by Kay Carswell, symbolizing the enduring strength and vitality of the senior community.
Attendees will also be honored by a special performance of the National Anthem by Loretta McCombs, setting a patriotic and uplifting tone for the events to follow.
Immediately after the opening ceremony, participants and guests are invited to join in the Fun Walk, a beloved tradition that encourages everyoneregardless of athletic ability to take part. The walk will follow the Senior Center’s scenic trail and serves as a reminder that the Senior Games are not just about competition, but about participation, connection, and joy.
With weeks filled with athletic events, creative expression, and meaningful fellowship, this year’s games promise to be both inspiring and unforgettable.
While medals will be awarded and talents showcased, the true heart of
the Senior Games lies in something much deeper.
“Senior Games is about community as much as it is about athletics and talent,” says Program Manager Tonya Garrison. “When you accomplish something meaningful, it becomes even more special when you experience it alongside others. That’s what community is all about.”
“Whether someone wins a sporting event, creates a beautiful piece of art, or sings with passion during the performing arts events, the goal is not simply achievement-it is sharing that moment with others. It is about celebrating life together,” Garrison continued.
The 2026 Senior Games will feature a wide variety of athletic competitions, along with SilverArts events that highlight the creativity and talents of participants in visual, literary, heritage, and performing arts.
Community members are encouraged to attend, support participants, and even consider joining future events. Whether cheering from the sidelines, walking the trail, or participating in an event, there is a place for everyone in the Senior Games.
“For many, this annual tradition is more than just a series of eventsit is a celebration of active living, lifelong achievement, and the power of community,” Garrison added.
Sporting events include chair volleyball, basketball shoot, swimming, horseshoes, bowling, cornhole, bocce, football throw, pickleball and mini-golf, billiards, table tennis, and shuffleboard.
At the conclusion of the games, more than 560 seniors will receive medals.
On Monday, April 27 and Tuesday, April 28, the Silver Arts competitive artwork will be on display until 4pm each day in the craft room at the center. Winners will be announced at 10:30am April 28.
Performing Arts participants will perform Thursday, April 30 with winners announced at 10:30am, following the performances.
Everyone is invited to the Performing Arts event at 9:30am April 30.
The Rutherford County Senior Center is celebrating being the Center in North Carolina with the highest growth rate of participants over the past year.
See page 9 for a
Article by Jean Gordon. Photos
Grace Quick, described as the ‘queen of ping pong’, practices with Joey Buchanan.
Calvin Phillips set to shoot pool.
Linda Bedow after taking a shot.
At shuffleboard practice are (left to right) Bob Billingsley, Grace Quick, Shannon Alley (Activities Asst.) and June Greene.
Rutherford County Senior Center Program Manager Tonya Garrison, gearing up for Senior Games.
Illustration of Future Boardwalk-Marina
The Town of Lake Lure is excited to share the encouraging progress at Washburn Marina. Water has returned to the marina basin. This is an important milestone in the ongoing recovery and rebuilding Helene.
There are three projects taking place in the Washburn Marina at this time.
Washburn Marina Building
• The previous small marina building has been removed from Hurricane Helene.
• The Town is working on a design for a permanent building that will be in keeping with Mediterranean architecture in the area.
• The future building will include retail space, restrooms, storage areas and a pavilion.
• The Town is working to acquire a temporary building that will be used in the 2026 season while the permanent structure is built.
• Permitting is currently in progress for this temporary building.
Marina refilling
Town of Lake Lure Provides Washburn Marina Update
level before work can be completed.
• Current projections anticipate the lake returning to full pond by late May 2026, which supports the July completion timeline.
• Visitors may notice new dock sections currently being constructed in the marina parking lot and the base of the floating boardwalk is in place in the lake near Memorial Highway.
Town officials are still awaiting determinations from FEMA regarding the future of Town Hall.
Town Hall and the Police Department are temporarily located at The Landings, 920 Buffalo Creek Road, lake Lure. The Welcome Center has been removed and will not be replaced at this time.
For additional information visit townoflakelure.com or email communincations@ townoflakelure.com.
Washburn Marina Tour Boat Docks and Fueling Station
• New docks are being built for the tour boats, in the same location as they were previously.
• A new fueling station will be incorporated on the left side of the marina building when facing the water from the parking lot.
• These docks and the fueling station are targeted for completion by May 2026.
• The boat ramp in this area will also be available for use once the lake reopens.
Floating Boardwalk and Docks
• Reconstruction work has begun on the Washburn Marina docks and floating boardwalk, with a target completion date of mid-July 2026.
• Some phases of construction require the
SECU Bridge to Career Scholarships at Isothermal Community College
other training-related expenses, helping them focus on gaining the skills needed for in-demand careers. Since its establishment in 2018, the SECU Bridge to Career Program has helped thousands of students across North Carolina gain training and credentials that lead to sustainable, local careers.
workforce,” said Dr. Scott Queen, Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development. “By removing financial barriers, we connect students with the training they need to step into highdemand careers and make an immediate impact in our community.”
Students interested in applying for the SECU Bridge
to Career scholarship should contact Betsy Cuthbertson at bcuthbertson@ isothermal.edu or call 828-395-1675 for eligibility requirements and application details. Up to 30 scholarships are available. Eligibility requirements apply.
A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the state of NC and their families with consumer financial services for 85 years. SECU is the second largest credit union in the US with $53 billion in assets and serves over 3 million members through 273 branch offices, over 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone, www.ncsecu.org and a Mobile App. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in NC primarily through high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of over $235 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide.
Article By: Blakely Hollifield; Isothermal Community College
• The rebuilt marina will include 208 seasonal boat slips along with 6 Daily Rental Slips (4 day minimum rentals), and 6 - free 2.5 hour boat rental slips (first come, first serve).
• There is a wait list for the seasonal boat slips.
• The new Washburn Marina and Floating Boardwalk design will closely replicate the previous layout, preserving the look and character of the marina that the community knows and
The Rutherford County Sports Hall of Fame (RCSHOF), presented by Hardin’s Drug announce tickets to the 2026 RCSHOF Induction Ceremony are on sale. The event will be Thursday, May 7 at The Foundation Performing Arts Center at Isothermal Community College with a banquet beginning at 6 pm Doors open at 5:15 pm Tickets can be purchased online (www. Foundationshows.org) or at The Foundation Box Office for $30 each. A small service fee will be applied
Five athletes chosen for RCSHOF
Rutherford County basketball history, but one of the most in NCHSAA history, as well. The 3,124 points she scored while on the hardwood at East Rutherford (2010-2014) stands as fourth all-time in NCHSAA history. She went on to have a solid career for the Virginia Tech Hokies, winning ACC All-Academic honors while helping Virginia Tech to several postseason appearances during her career. Camp returned home and is now the head coach of the points and 23 rebounds and was nominated as a McDonald’s AllAmerican in 1992. After graduating from R-S Central in 1992, Carson led Spartanburg Methodist to the 1995 Jr. College National Championship game before finishing his career at UCONN under legendary coach
The name Jerry Cash is synonymous with high school football in both North and South Carolina. In a
coaching career that spanned over 50 years from 1967-2022, Cash garnered an impressive 362 wins as a head coach. 175 of those victories came in Rutherford County at both East Rutherford and Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy. Over his career, Cash has earned countless honors and accolades, including multiple conference championships, playoff appearances, Coach Of The Year Awards and he even coached at the prestigious Shrine Bowl.
Douglas Padgett
Douglas (Doug) Padgett is the third member of the Rutherford County triumvirate that played for Duke football in the 1950s to be enshrined into the RCSHOF. He joins fellow RCSHOF members Dr. Wade Byrd and Bert Lattimore in receiving the honor. He was a member of the 1957-58 Blue Devil team that played in the Orange Bowl and was
Child Abuse Prevention Month underway
a shared commitment-to protect, to uplift, and to ensure that every child grows up safe, supported, and seen,” Parton said.
drafted by the Baltimore Colts, but turned down the opportunity for a career as a pilot in the Air Force and for Delta.
Tyler White Of the many stars that have played on the baseball diamonds in Rutherford County over the years, Tyler White shines as one of the brightest. The 2009 CHASE graduate received All-State honors for the Trojans as a senior and was then named SOCON Player Of The Year at Western Carolina University in 2013. He was also selected in the 2013 MLB draft and reached “The Show” in 2016 for the Houston Astros. White was a member of the 2017 Astros’ World Series team before moving to the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also spent time in Korea along with other organizations in the latter stages of his career before retiring in 2023.
and refusing to look the other way,” Bright said.
“At Family Resources of Rutherford County, we see every day the impact of both harm and healing. We know that when a community comes together to support children and families, lives change,” Bright continued.
Bright added, “So as these
Shinny and bright blue/ silver pinwheels spinning at the Rutherford County Courthouse, represented the kickoff of Child Abuse Prevention Month in Rutherford County.
Every pinwheel planted along the courthouse lawn represents hope, resilience and the joyful childhood every child deserves, said Vanessa Parton, Executive Director of the Partnership for Children of the Foothills.
“Your presence reflects
“We’re grateful to stand alongside dedicated partners who make this work possible, including Emily Wood with Mosaic Hope, Hope Bailey from Clara Allen Family Center, Sherry Bright from Family Resources of Rutherford County, Amber Cox with NC Courts, Judge Robert Martelle of Safe Babies Court, Tiffany Dodd with Rutherford County Department of Social Services, and Jessica Osteen from Partnership for Children of the Foothills.
“Together, we are building stronger families and a healthier future for all children” Vanessa said.
Bright told the crowd, “Child abuse prevention isn’t just about awareness-it’s about responsibility. It’s abut the choices we make as a community to see, to listen and to act. It’s about believing children, supporting families
pinwheels turn in the wind, let them be more than a symbol. Let them be a commitment that we will protect childhood, that we will speak up, and that we ill stand together for the children who are counting on us.”
Swim For Recovery May 8
On May 8, 2026, Patricia Temple, will swim the contour of the main coves of Lake Lure, to raise money for the Post Helene Recovery efforts and show that the lake is back, and the water is clean, safe, and beautiful!
Lake Lure isn’t just a beautiful place, it’s home. Patricia and Jeff Temple’s own house in Rumbling Bald was damaged in the storm, so they know firsthand how deeply this hurricane impacted the community.
Now, she’s turning that hardship into action. Every stroke is for the community, neighbors, and businesses still rebuilding.
Lure and Lake Lure Beach may reopen by Memorial Weekend in May 2026. If the lake refills more quickly than anticipated, that
Note that Ms. Temple has received special permission to use the lake and will be closely supervised during her swim.
The lake remains closed to all unauthorized personnel until Lake Lure officially reopens.
Town officials will announce reopening dates as soon as a confirmed timeline is available. At this time, there is hope that Lake
How you can help: Please donate to support local organizations supporting first responders and ongoing community recovery efforts. You can also volunteer to kayak to escort the swimmer for portions of the swim. For questions email: Communications@ townoflakelure.com. To donate visit https://qrto. org/8EjBNZ. Article By: Town of Lake Lure
Article Provided By: Jacob Conley
Article Compiled By: Jean Gordon. Jean Gordon Photos.
by Pat Jobe
This is the kind of story that makes some people shake their heads in disbelief, and others nod in agreement that these are the kinds of stories that make plenty of sense.
The woman was preparing for her sister’s
Her sister sent word by dancing rainbows that all was well
memorial service and hoped for a beautiful sunrise to encourage her on the day of the service. Instead dark clouds felt more like the grief she was wrestling, and there was no beautiful sunrise.
Disappointed and discouraged, she walked into her kitchen where a prism had caught the little sunlight available. The walls were full of dancing rainbows from the prism. She said hello to her sister and knew she could get through the service later that day.
When she spoke at the service, her voice rang with
the joy of feeling as though she had heard from her sister and all was well.
There are likely hundreds of millions of stories like that.
Bestselling writer Melody Beatty lost her 12-year-old son in a skiing accident. For months after, she begged for a sign that he might be well in the land beyond the river that they call the sweet forever.
The sign came when she found a feather on the ground from a bird that she remembered was his favorite. She believed it was from him.
The famous psychologist Alfred Adler wrote this,
“We are not determined by our experiences, but are self-determined by the meaning we give to them; and when we take particular experiences as the basis for our future life, we are almost certain to be misguided to some degree. Meanings are not determined by situations. We determine ourselves by the meanings we ascribe to situations.”
Why is this so hard to understand? Dancing rainbows? A feather on the ground? They mean what we believe they mean. Another teacher, Caroline Myss, talked about finding another feather on the ground. She had two job offers and was asking for spiritual guidance about which one to take. When she saw the feather, she ran to her grandmother shouting for joy. Her grandmother asked her why she was so happy. She told Caroline if she’s going to shout for joy, do it for the air in her lungs and the blood in her veins. She said the miracle of being alive is enough of a source for joy.
is another man’s treasure, and that goes not only for physical items, but for our attitudes towards dancing rainbows and messages we feel we hear from the other side.
Caroline Myss’s grandmother may be the wisest of all. If we are going to shout for joy, we may as well do it for the air in our lungs and the blood in our veins. Life itself is worthy of a shout or two.
Obviously there are as many ways to respond to our circumstances as there are people times moments in a day. You’ve heard it for a long time. One man’s trash
Of course, dancing rainbows come in handy, too.
Contact Pat Jobe at patjobe13@gmail.com.
First annual Healing Hearts Festival raises money for U&I Enrichment Center
On March 1st the first annual Healing Hearts Festival was held at Flygirls in Rutherfordton. “The event was to bring awareness to mental health and addiction issues in our community and provide information about the resources available,” said Morgan Bass, founder of Healing Hearts Festival. Several organizations participated and connected with each other discussing ways to reach more people in need, and ways to better help our community. Several people spoke about their own personal journeys to recovery. Their long time struggles and recovery success can bring hope to so many people still struggling and to their families.
The event welcomed a representative from Aspire Youth and Family LLC which has a program called Kids at Work for at-risk youth. They teach kids culinary skills and food safety techniques while providing a safe and fun environment for kids to learn and socialize.
Several local businesses donated items, services, and gift cards for fundraising activities such as the silent
auction and the very popular cake walk. Freedom Hills Farm and Rescue brought their adorable furry friends and turtles. Morgan added “It was a fun and inspiring time for the community and we are looking forward to making next year’s Healing Hearts Festival an even bigger success!”
Article Provided By: Morgan Bass
This year’s recipient of the $1,560 raised by the event was U&I Enrichment Center of Forest City, a fairly new and a much needed resource in the area.
100 Years Ago This Month: Historical events from April 1926
The month of April has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in April 1926.
• The United States House of Representatives votes to impeach District Court Judge George W. English on April 1. Judge English, who was accused of abuse of powers and violation of bankruptcy laws, ultimately resigns on November 4.
to a psychiatric hospital in England, where she remains until her death in 1956.
• Residents of Watts, California, vote to become part of the city of Los Angeles on April 2. Residents vote 1,338 to 535 in favor of consolidation.
• Warplanes of Manchurian warlord Zhang Zuolin begin bombing portions of Beijing on April 3. The areas targeted by the bombings are areas of the city under the control of the Guominjun paramilitary group.
• The national basketball team of Italy plays its first game on April 4. The team earns a 23-17 victory over the French national team.
• The first recorded death of a person caused by a cassowary is noted in Mossman, Queensland, Australia on April 6. Phillip McClean, the 16-yearold victim, was attacked by the large, flightless bird while he and his brother were trying to kill it.
• Italian Premier Benito Mussolini is shot by Violet Gibson in Rome on April 7. Mussolini is unharmed, and Gibson is ultimately released without charges. However, Gibson is sent
• The German subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company assembles its first vehicle, a Model T, on April 8.
• Twenty-seven sailors are killed when the United States oil tanker the Gulf of Venezuela explodes as the ship sits in harbor at Port Arthur, Texas, on April 11.
• Walter Johnson of the Washington Senators defeats Eddie Rommel of the Philadelphia Athletics on Opening Day on April 13. The game lasts 15 innings and ends with a score of 1-0.
• Australian politician Frederick McDonald disappears while on his way to a meeting with Jack Lang, the Premier of New South Wales, on April 15. McDonald, who had recently lost a re-election bid to the Australian House of Representatives, challenged the result of that election and asked that his opponent, Thomas Ley, be removed from office. McDonald’s disappearance is never solved, and Ley is later convicted of the murder of John Mudie in 1947.
• Elizabeth II is born to the Duchess of York and the Duke of York on April 21 in London. Elizabeth grows up to serve as Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, a reign that begins in 1952 and lasts until her death in 2022.
• Germany and the Soviet Union sign the Treaty of Berlin on April 24. Each country pledges neutrality in the event of attack on the other by a third party within the ensuing half decade.
• The Pahlavi dynasty begins in Iran on April 25 when Reza Khan is formally crowned the Shah of Iran.
• Illinois prosecutor William H. McSwiggin is killed during a shootout involving Al Capone and Jack McGurn on April 27. Capone and McGurn did not know McSwiggin was in the car of a rival gang at the time of the shootout.
• African American pilot Bessie Coleman plunges 600 feet to her death while preparing for an air show in Jacksonville, Florida, on April 30. Prior to flying, Coleman had been urged not to pilot the aircraft, which friends and family did not deem safe. Coleman insisted on flying, and an examination of the wreckage of the aircraft after the crash found that a wrench used to service the engine had jammed the controls.
• Canadian distance runner Johnny Miles wins the Boston Marathon on April 19. The marathon marked the first time Miles had competed in a race of more than 10 miles.
Ava Miller is the Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Rutherford County for the Class of 2027. Miller represented Rutherford Early High School College (REaCH) at the annual DYW county scholarship program held at the Foundation Isothermal Community College recently. She won the Overall Scholastic, Overall Talent, and Overall Fitness awards, and won a preliminary award SelfExpression. She was awarded $8,900 in cash scholarships and will represent Rutherford
County at the North Carolina DYW scholarship program in Greensboro in January, 2027
Ava is a daughter of John and Janie Miller and has one sister, Makenna.
She said she originally decided to participate in the DYW program because she knew other girls who had gone through the program and enjoyed it and the experience was so much more than she could have asked.
“I loved every moment I got to spend with the other six girls competing with me, and I am so thankful for them,” Ava said.
“Being named the Distinguished Young Woman of Rutherford County has meant so much already and I am so grateful to be able to be a role model for the younger girls in my county. I am so excited to go and be a part of the state program and to experience it.”
For her talent competition, Ava chose the contemporary pointe ballet routine to
“Experience” by Ludovico Einaudi and choreographed by Talita Rubio.
“I have been dancing since I was three and fell in love with pointe when I started at 11. I am so grateful that I was able to perform one of my favorite dance styles on the DYW stage and have loved every experience of it. I would most definitely encourage every junior girl to compete in Distinguished Young Women just for the experience alone. You are able to gain lifelong friendships, and important life skills,” she said.
“I love to travel and plan to travel the world after I graduate. I can always find myself lost in a good book, and I especially love to read on the beach, one of my favorite vacation spots,” Ava added.
Contestants in the scholarship program also included Remington Jones, East Rutherford High School; Elaina Short, Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy; Bethany Jenkins, East Rutherford High School; Kelsey Ingle, Chase High School; Cara Henderson, Chase High School and Lexi Jack, Chase High School.
More than 200 people attended the program including the participants, along with eight Has-Beens (class of 2026 participants), 10 Little Sisters, and 13 young girls from the Be Your Best Self Day Camp.
The program featured the young ladies competing for
scholarships and recognition in areas including scholastics, interview, talent, fitness, and self-expression.
In addition to the competition, the event honored Ava Garland, the 2026 Distinguished Young Woman of Rutherford County. At the 2026 scholarship program Garland was named third runner-up in the state program.
Other awards went to:
Finalists
First Finalist: Lexi Jack
Second Finalist: Elaina Short
Scholastic Preliminary Awards: Bethany Jenkins, Lexi Jack
Overall Scholastic Award: Ava Miller
Interview Preliminary Award: Lexi Jack, Remington Jones
Overall Interview Award: Elaina Short
Fitness Preliminary Awards: Elaina Short, Lexi Jack
Overall Fitness Award: Ava Miller
Self-Expression Preliminary Awards: Lexi Jack, Ava Miller
Overall Self-Expression Award: Elaina Short
Talent Awards: Kelsey Ingle, Lexi Jack
Overall Talent Award: Ava Miller
Be Your Best Self Award: Kelsey Ingle
Second Finalist Elaina Short (left) with DYW 2027’s Ava Miller (center) and First Finalist Lexi Jack.
Ava Miller (left) with Ava Garland.
By Gar y Miller Gary Miller
I’m pretty bummed right now. Turkey season remains closed in my home area for another week. That’s two weeks later than it used to be just a few years ago. For some reason, I thought it had only been pushed back one week, and I was already looking forward to a pre-Easter turkey meal. Now it feels like I’ll be rushed just to enjoy what’s left of the season. If I had known, I would’ve headed south and gotten started earlier. I’ll remember that next year. Or maybe I’ll just take advantage of the delay and do some early fishing before the season opens. But for now, my outdoor life has been reduced to mowing grass and taking a few bike rides. And honestly… I feel cooped up. There’s no doubt in my mind I was made for something beyond my present existence. I know it because of its absence. I feel it in the pull. In the yearning that wells up inside me. It reminds me of those little sea turtles that are born up in the weeds along the beach. The moment they break through the egg, they run towards the ocean. They have never been there, never seen it, and no one shows them the way to go. And yet they go. There are a thousand illustrations like that in nature. And then there’s you and me. C.S Lewis described it this way in Mere Christianity.
“Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists. A baby feels hunger: well, there is such a thing as food.
A duckling wants to swim: well, there is such a thing as water.
Men feel sexual desire: well, there is such a thing as sex. If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. If none of my earthly pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is a fraud. Probably earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real thing. If that is so, I must take care, on the one hand, never to despise, or be unthankful for, these earthly blessings, and on the other, never to mistake them for the something else of which they are only a kind of copy, or echo, or mirage.”
Lately, I have felt these urges in far more important things than turkey hunting. I watch the news. I scroll through social media posts. I see anger, vitriol, and contempt for anything good or Godly. Or worse, I see an apathy for anything spiritual. I see a world that increasingly looks foreign to the one I know exists. And yet the one I know exists, I have never seen. But I long for it. Not because I want to leave this world. But because this world no longer feels like home. Maybe that’s because home isn’t a place. It’s a Person and a people.
a free appreciation lunch Saturday at the Rutherford County Government Services Center in Rutherfordton. Hosting the American 250 event were members of the Griffith Rutherford Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) (left to right): Julie Toffaletti, Jody Wall, Regent Vicki Ledbetter, Mary Ann Joyce, Tonya Pratt, Janet Jolly and Betsy Woolridge. Among veterans and guests were
GARY MILLER
Miller, Alan Pratt, Ross Kennedy and his wife Beth Kennedy.
Lawn & Garden Month
There is no denying the appeal of a sunroom. Sunrooms bring more of the outdoors inside by bridging the gap between home and yard. Demand is shifting, with more than 61 percent of homeowners now preferring fourseason insulated rooms for year-round use, according to Market Reports World. A sunroom has the potential to offer a roughly 50 percent return on investment and can cost anywhere from $22,000 to
the space, and the amount of sun the home receives.
take lightly, as it changes both the interior floor plan and backyard space.
Home footprint: Professionals with the National Association of Realtors say that a sunroom should not consume more than 30 percent of the remaining backyard and urge homeowners to avoid over-developing a lot. If installing a sunroom will leave a homeowner with only a small patch of yard afterwards, the result can feel heavy and unbalanced. It also won’t match the neighborhood. Another consideration is the local zoning ordinances where a person lives. The City of Los Angeles, for example, warns that most towns require a setback between the sunroom structure and the property line. It’s also important to look at the home’s roof and whether or not the sunroom will fall right under the eaves or if it will require an expensive tie-in to the existing roof.
be used all day. Morning people can appreciate an east-facing sunroom while drinking coffee or reading, and the space will cool down in the afternoon. South-facing rooms will be bright most of the day and may need high-end HVAC hookups or shades to stay comfortable, even in cooler months. West-facing sunrooms are great for watching sunsets, but the hot afternoon sun must be considered. UV-rated glass to prevent floor fading and even sunburn likely will be needed.
It is important to work with a company that specializes in sunrooms. Such firms are experienced in helping homeowners design and ultimately build these spaces to avoid common pitfalls, advises Champion, a window, sunroom and home exterior company.
Utility: It is vital that homeowners determine how they will use the space and when. This will dictate the type of sunroom that should be built. A threeseason room is typically uninsulated with only single-pane glass. This is ideal if someone is looking for a screened-in retreat without all of the bugs and a little weather protection. Four-season rooms are fully insulated and tie into a home’s HVAC system. This space will be functional all year long, but it is a more expensive undertaking as well.
To decide if a sunroom really is a worthwhile endeavor, it’s important for homeowners to consider the footprint of
Light evaluation: The purpose of a sunroom is to benefit from the sun. The value of the space will depend entirely on which way the room faces. Northfacing sunrooms have soft light with
Oneshouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal bears significant influence regarding how a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it. Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal? Plenty of projects can offer maximum output with minimal investment.
Refresh the front door
Painting the front door can add brightness and improve the look of a home’s entryway. Most exterior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck.
existing greenery can make it feel neater and more polished.
Clean up
Power-washing the siding, cement walkways and garage door can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. Cleaning off years of grime can be a fast and inexpensive refresh.
Reseal the driveway
Improve or add landscaping elements
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possible to plant new flowers or bushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimming
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has cracks or discoloration, filling in cracks and applying a new coat of sealer will make a big difference. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the driveway or do the work on their own.
Add more lighting
Updating front porch lights and accent lights around the property will cast a more positive glow on a home, both literally and figuratively.
Add a seating area
If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional.
Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few
(Feature Impact)
Fewhome renovation projects can change the look of a home as significantly as new siding. New siding can make a home look brand new, and a new color can dramatically change the perception of a home.
As homeowners begin to consider siding replacement projects, they might be surprised to learn their options in relation to materials are so numerous. Though it’s great to have options, it also can be difficult to pick a material when there are so many products to choose from. Vinyl, fiber cement and wood are three popular siding materials, and understanding the characteristics of each can help homeowners make more informed decisions.
Vinyl
Vinyl siding has long been among the most popular siding materials. The National Association of Home Builders notes that popularity has declined in recent years, with the market share of vinyl siding dropping 5 percent over the last decade and nearly 13 percent over the last 20 years. Despite that declining popularity, vinyl remains a strong option for many homeowners due to its affordability and minimal maintenance requirements. Consumer Reports also notes that vinyl siding is impervious to insects and water, an attribute that’s highly appealing to many homeowners.
Fiber cement
Consumer Reports notes that fiber cement siding blends cement, sand and cellulose. Many homeowners like fiber cement siding because of its aesthetic appeal, as it looks like real wood without the vulnerabilities associated with wood (see below). The home renovation experts at
This Old House report that fiber cement siding has exceptional durability and offers great resistance to environmental factors like harsh weather, UV rays and moisture. Fiber cement siding also is a low-maintenance, insect-resistant option that won’t warp or rot. Fiber cement siding is not easily installed, which contributes to a higher overall cost.
Wood
Siding materials don’t get much more traditional than wood. It shouldn’t surprise homeowners to learn that wood siding can warp or rot, and anything made from wood can be vulnerable to insects. However, well-maintained wood siding can be very durable and certain types are less vulnerable to rot than others. Local climate will affect which wood siding options are best for a given area. Many see wood siding as characteristic of a high-end home, making the somewhat higher price tag compared to vinyl siding easier to justify.
There’s no right or wrong decision when choosing siding materials for a home. Homeowners are urged to do their homework, including studying cost and the local climate, before choosing a material for their home.
As the days lengthen and warm air has you ready to get your patio furniture out of storage, that means it’s time to give your yard a fresh start. With a little planning now, you’ll be rewarded with a fuller, greener and easier-to-maintain outdoor space once spring is in full bloom.
1. Start With a Clean Slate Winter leaves behind plenty of debris, including fallen branches and matted leaves. Before you start planting, take a walk around your yard and tidy up:
* Rake moisture-trapping twigs and leaves that can cause fungus
* Remove dead plants or spent annuals from flower beds
* Sweep or power wash patios and walkways
2. Tune Up Tools
Digging into yard work only to find rusty shears or a squeaky mower can prolong the task. Instead, ensure your tools are in good working order:
* Sharpen blades on lawn mowers, shears and pruners
* Install fresh string on trimmers and weed eaters
* Replace old fuel or clean air filters on gas-powered tools
3. Assess Your Lawn Early spring is ideal for noticing how winter treated your grass.
grass absorb nutrients. Set the stage for lush growth once warmer weather arrives by looking for:
* Bare patches that need reseeding
* Weeds making an early debut
* Compacted soil where water pools instead of soaking in
4. Give Plants the Right
Start
Now’s the time to prep beds for new life. Before you plant:
* Loosen soil and mix in compost for nutrients
* Add mulch around perennials
* Plan your planting based on sun and shade patterns
5. Hydrate Wisely Strong roots start with proper hydration. Even before sprigs pop up, early spring can be dry as the sun gets higher. Remember to:
* Water flowerbeds if rainfall has been scarce
* Check irrigation systems for damage
* Mulch lightly after soil warms to lock in moisture
Spring is the season of nature’s rebirth. Trees and flowers begin to bloom anew each spring, and young animals can be seen frolicking with their parents. During a time when it seems like the entire planet gets a refresh, many homeowners turn their thoughts to refreshing their homes as well.
As the days lengthen and the weather warms, spring cleaning takes center stage. Spring cleaning is more extensive than simply washing away grime, as cleaning a home often offers a psychological reset for the coming months.
spring cleaning. That means that dust and debris will be affected by gravity. Engaging in a top-down approach will help make cleaning more efficient. Beginning at the ceiling and working down towards the floors will help people avoid having to clean the same surface twice.
A clear strategy can make the task of spring cleaning feel less daunting, and these tips can help cut down on clutter and other interior annoyances that have arisen after months spent indoors. Declutter before cleaning
The rule of thumb when starting on spring cleaning is to combat clutter before cleaning. Trying to clean around clutter is inefficient and may result in throwing in the towel prematurely. It is important to remove as much as possible from each room before you begin cleaning. As homeowners move through each room, they can assess whether they’ve used items in the last year or whether they serve any functional or aesthetic purposes. If not, they can be trashed or donated. Move top to bottom
Using a duster or a microfiber cloth, individuals can clear cobwebs from corners and dust from crown molding. Fingerprints will accumulate near light switches and door handles, so those areas should be wiped down, too.
It’s important to follow the rules of science when
Do a kitchen reset
Homeowners can conduct a thorough cleaning of heating and cooling output and intake vents as they likely have gathered dust over the winter. A down of floor moldings can get to any area near the floor or under furniture that doesn’t get frequent cleaning.
Focusing attention on the kitchen, which tends to be the busiest room in the house, is a wise idea for spring cleaning plans. This is the time for individuals to pull everything out of the refrigerator and pantry and check for expiration dates. Wiping down the shelves means cleaning away any accumulated food drips or spills. Additional areas to consider include behind the refrigerator, inside the dishwasher filter and inside the microwave.
Focus on air quality
It’s key to replace the HVAC system filters come springtime, as well as any air purifiers in the home. This will help reduce allergens and ensure that the cooling system will run efficiently when it’s time to turn it on. Put some spring in your cleaning step
Outdoor living spaces are wildly popular. A 2023 study conducted by Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens found that 63 percent of homeowners indicated they would prioritize an outdoor living space if they were to remodel their homes.
Homeowners cite a multitude of motivations regarding their interest in upgrading their outdoor living spaces. The 2024 U.S. Outdoor Trends Study from Houzz Research found that more than half of
homeowners who participated in the study (51 percent) want to renovate to improve aesthetics, while 37 percent hoped to enhance entertaining spaces.
One-third view renovating outdoor spaces as a great way to extend the living space of their homes.
Homeowners who share these motivations and are committed to renovating their outdoor living areas can look to these unique features to fulfill all three goals.
• Water fountain: Water fountains
Unique features for outdoor living spaces
can serve as stunning focal points in outdoor living spaces. Outdoor fountains are ideal for anyone hoping to create an outdoor oasis, as few sights and sounds promote a calming atmosphere as effectively as softly flowing water in a cast stone fountain. Fountains also attract birds, which can add to the
situate a hammock between two tall, sturdy trees. Such a sight can contribute to a welcoming and calming ambiance in an outdoor living space, and provide extra room to lounge and relax beneath
• Game zone: If entertaining is the primary motivation behind an outdoor
A R E A AREA
April 10 & 24
What: Free hot dog meal
When: April 10 & 24; meal distribution begins at noon
Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale
April 10
What: Fish Fry Fundraiser for Mission Trip to Belize
When: April 10; 5:30pm until out of fish
Where: St. Francis Episcopal Church; 395 N. Main St., Rutherfordton More Info: $10/plate. Dine in, carry out.
April 15
What: Drive Thru Community Meal
When: April 15; 5pm
Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale
April 18
What: Gospel Bluegrass Singing
When: April 18; 6-7pm
Where: Faith Baptist Church of Mill Spring; 265 Hwy. 9 N., Mill Spring
More Info: Rightside Gospel Bluegrass will be singing.
What: Food Give Away
When: April 18; 8-10am
Where: Caroleen Congregational Holiness Church; 112 Walker Store Rd., Ellenboro
More Info: Come to the second parking lot and we will bring a box out to your car.
April 18
What: Saturday Night aLive
When: April 18; 6:30pm Where: Spindale United Methodist Church; 185 Mill St., Spindale
More Info: We will have food and trivia.
April 19
What: Jonathan Lotz (Billy Graham’s grandson) leads morning worship When: April 19; 10:30am Where: Lafayette Street Church; 1420 S. Lafayette St., Shelby
What: Heaven Bound Trio When: April 19; 6pm
Where: Mountain Creek Baptist Church; 710 Mt. Creek Rd., Rutherfordton
More Info: A love offering will be taken.
April 26
What: Free God’s Family Closet When: April 26; 12-2pm
Where: Three Angels Seventh-Day Adventist Church; 2158 Hudlow Rd., Forest City
More Info: Also free spaghetti lunch take-out containers. Fill your bags & your belly!
May 3
What: Next Chapter
When: May 3; 6pm
Where: Mountain Creek Baptist Church; 710 Mt. Creek Rd., Rutherfordton
More Info: A love offering will be taken.
Every Monday
What: Community Bible Study group
When: Every Monday; 7pm Where: First Baptist Church, Rutherfordton
More Info: We will study Job, Daniel, Christian Leadership. In-person classes and online classes. https://rutherfordtoneve.cbsclass.org/
What: Recovery at The Well
When: Every Monday; 6-9pm
Where: The Well – Landrum; 395 Hwy 14 W., Landrum, SC
More Info: Help for Hurts, Habits & Hardships, Fellowship Meal, Worship, Teaching, Testimonies, Growth through Small Groups. All welcome.
Every Tuesday
What: Bible Study
When: Every Tuesday; 6pm
Where: Three Angels Seventh-day Adventist Church; 2158 Hudlow Rd., Forest City
More Info: 828-448-1856 - Pastor Tim Sheridan.
Every Wednesday
What: Bible Study & Free Dinner
When: Wednesdays. Refreshments/ Dinner 5pm, Bible study 6pm
Where: New Bethel AME Zion Church; 263 Forest St., Forest City
More Info: 828-429-3497.
WE WILL BUY YOUR CAR TODAY!
Meet the Horun Family Homestead
Sometimes dreams do come true on a first date.
Hannah and Drew Horun hit it off on their first date three years ago when they bonded over their love of animals and farming, which led them to establish Horun Family Homestead in Rutherfordton, NC. On 20 acres with their small family, they raise their own chickens, ducks, and a dairy cow with plans to add pigs and turkeys later this year.
The Horuns are selftaught, first generation
best quality food, reconnect customers to their sources of food, and inform individuals about the importance of rebuilding the soil. Their approach to farming is about providing the most nutrientdense products possible using natural, regenerative farming practices. To do so, they maintain a small flock of chickens for small-batch processing, which ensures that they can provide the necessary attentive care needed for healthy, nutrient dense food. This means that they maintain a close watch on their livestock everyday, monitoring and tending to the the animals regularly.
The chickens are moved across the pasture on a regular basis under the protection of a chicken tractor so that they can naturally forage for insects and grass and fertilize the soil. From birth, their
animals are fed a healthy diet free of soy and are never treated with hormones, vaccines, or antibiotics. Hannah uses her knowledge to create supplements using organic herbs, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Lastly, they process their chickens right on the farm using zero chemicals. This helps keep the birds’ stress levels low and improves the quality of meat. Using these practices, their chicken meat and eggs are flavorful, nutrient-dense, and healthy for consumption. Customers often compliment the vibrant orange in the egg yokes.
Now that they are able to provide their family with healthy meats and eggs, they want to share their nutritious products with their neighbors and the wider community. Since moving to the area, they have connected with other local farmers who offer their
vast knowledge and tricks of the trade. The Rutherford County Farmers Market provides them with an avenue to connect with neighbors and reconnect residents with their food sources and local farms. Hannah and Drew welcome questions and conversations about their farming practices, because they want customers to fully understand their process and know what they are putting into their bodies. Customers are invited to schedule a farm tour so that they can see their operations in person. Their future plans include on-farm educational opportunities and agritourism. If you are interested in learning how to process your own chickens,
eggs, you can find them at the Rutherford County Farmers Market in Forest City on Saturdays, order online
summer - be on the lookout for an announcement from them!
Jan B. Cook
advertising@rutherfordweekly.com
Distribution: Tommy Sims • Greg Grimes
Article & Photos Provided By: Rutherford County Food Council
Hannah and Drew Horun with their daughter.
Hannah feeds the chickens with her daughter.
Chicks being fed on the homestead.
APRIL
April 6-30
Spring Litter Sweep
April 11
UltiMutt Race at Tryon Resort
April 18
Ruff’ton Roots plant sale
Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday Forest City Vip Lions Club
When: Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday; 6:30pm
Where: Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church; 397 Mt. Pleasant Church Rd., Forest City
More Info: Seeking volunteers & members to serve our community.
Every 2nd Tuesday
Lake Lure Lions Club
When: 2nd Tuesdays 6pm
Where: La Strada Restaurant; 2693 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure
More Info: If you’re interested & would like to attend a club meeting, contact club president John Kobland at jkobland@gmail.com.
Every Tuesday
Open Arms Substance Abuse
When: Tuesdays 6-7pm
Where: Highland Apartments Activity Center; 171 Butler Rd., Forest City
More Info: For those with substance abuse, parents or guardians of kids with substance abuse addictions.
Rena: 828-305-1280.
First Tuesday
Rutherford Dementia Support Group
When: 1st Tuesday monthly 5-6pm
Where: First United Methodist Church Forest City Fellowship Hall; 341 E. Main St., Forest City
More Info: Discuss topics related to Dementia. 828-395-0083.
First Tuesday Cancer Support Group
When: 1st Tues. monthly 5-6:30pm Where: Rutherford County Senior Center
More Info: For cancer patients & survivors; informative topics, friendship & refreshments. RSVP 828-245-4596, option 1.
More Info: Join us and volunteer to serve your community.
Rutherford Beekeepers Monthly Club Meeting When: Third Tuesday; 6pm Where: Cooperative Extension Center; 193 Callahan-Koon Rd., beside Senior Center
More Info: For anyone interested in beekeeping.
Fourth Tuesday Rutherford County Woodworkers Club When: Every Fourth Tuesday Where: Rutherford County Annex, Rutherfordton
More Info: 919-696-6064.
Second Thursday Coffee for Veterans When: S2nd Thursday monthly 10am
Where: Fairfield Mountains Chapel; 1384 Buffalo Creek Rd., Lake Lure
More Info: Veterans welcome for coffee, refreshments & camaraderie.
Third Thursday Coffee & Conversations for Veterans When: 3rd Thurs. monthly; 9:3010:30am Where: Rutherford County Veteran Services; 145 College Ave. Suite B, Rutherfordton More Info: 828-287-6185. Thursdays
BINGO – Disabled American Veterans Chapter 25 When: Thursdays 7-10pm Where: Old Green Hill School; 2501 US 64/74A Hwy., Rutherfordton
More Info: Doors open 5:30pm.
When: April 6-30
More Info: Sponsored by Keep Rutherford County Beautiful. Rally neighbors, coworkers, or a team of any size. Clean parks, lots, roads or trails. Supplies: Vests, bags, gloves are covered! Report what you cleaned & we can help remove bags. Sign up: https:// www.keeprcncbeautiful.org/sign-up-for-asweep, email allie@rutherfordoutdoor.org, or call 828-289-3260.
April 9
Safe Kids Safety Event
When: April 9; 11am-3pm
Where: North Slope Skate Park & Pump Track; 164 Mill St., Spindale
More Info: Join Rutherford Outdoor
Coalition & Safe Kids Rutherford Polk & learn about bike safety. Free bike helmets for elementary & middle schoolers, while supplies last!
April 11
Annual Ruritan Hot Dog & Baked Beans
Supper
When: April 11; 4-7pm
Where: 2500 Hollis Rd., Ellenboro
More Info: $10 per person. Under 7, free.
Purple Martin Fabulous 4 Miler
When: April 11; 8-10am
Where: Purple Martin Greenway at Kiwanis Park; 128 Green St., Rutherfordton
More Info: Out-and-back race. Finishers will receive commemorative medals! Wear patriotic gear & win prizes for most patriotic dress! Register: https://runsignup. com/.../Ruth.../PurpleMartinFabulous4Miler. Registration ends April 10 and cost $30.
Forest City VIP Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner
When: April 11; 4-8pm
Where: Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church Fellowship Hall; 397 Mt. Pleasant Church Rd. Forest City
More Info: Donations appreciated & go toward Forest City community outreach projects. Raffle tickets available: 1st: Handmade Corn Hole Boards, 2nd: Custom Bluetooth Speaker Mug, 3rd: Lion’s Club Utility Broom.
Greatest American Cleanup-Spindale
When: April 11; 10am
Where: ROC Office; 115 N Oak St., Spindale
More Info: Join us as we clean up parks & trails. With enough volunteers, we hope to be able to clean up the Thermal Belt Rail Trail & the North Slope Skate Park. Trash bags, gloves, visibility vests & grabbers provided. Join us after for snacks, drinks & free Greatest American Cleanup t-shirt! Register: https://givebutter. com/gac-spindale or email allie@ rutherfordoutdoor. org
When: April 11; 9am-2pm
Where: Tryon Resort; 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring
More Info: 5k obstacle race & festival to challenge a dog & owner team, over 17+ obstacles. 10% race fees & 100% donations given to Greenville County Animal Care. Free admission, including family dog! Food/ Beverage Trucks, Awards, Vendors- 20+ local shops, Photo Booths, Pup Caricatures. ultimuttrace.com.
April 15
Roadless Rule Roundtable
When: April 15; 6pm
Where: The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage; 131 Sweeten Creek Rd., Asheville
More Info: Learn more & share your perspective about the affects the proposed rescission of the Roadless Rule - a landmark rule responsible for the protection of 59 million acres of national forest land. For more info or to register, visit https://mountaintrue. org/event/roadless-rule-communityroundtable-in-asheville-nc-4-15/. Public invited. roadless.org.
April 16 & 23
Nutrition Classes, “What’s Eating You?”
Fresh look at Food & Health
When: April 16 & April 23; 6:30-8pm
Where: Bill’s Creek Community Center; 198 Club House Rd., Lake Lure
More Info: Crystal Redmon and school nurse at Lake Lure Classical Academy all lead the classes; door prizes.
April 18
Rutherford Nonprofit Collaborative Community Resource Fair
When: April 18; 12-7pm
Where: Isothermal Community College –Business Sciences Building Parking Lot; 286 ICC Loop Rd., Spindale
More Info: Music, food trucks, resources, giveaways! This event will bring together local organizations and community partners to share resources, services, and support with the community. 828-229-3380.
Community Yard Sale
When: April 18; 8am-noon
Where: Union Mills Community Development Club; 6097 Hudlow Rd., Union Mills
More Info: Indoor rain or shine. Breakfast biscuits, bake sale. Tables $10. Call 828-4292446 to reserve a table.
Matthew Zeke Blanton Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament
Where: Forest City Municipal Golf Course; 211 Clay St,. Forest City
More Info: Supporting the Matthew Zeke Blanton Memorial Scholarship! Prizes, Closest to the Pin, 50/50 Putting Contest, Half & Half Raffle, Awards presented after each wave. To register call 828-748-7383 or email abennett_18@att.net.
May 2 Mountain Thunder Car Show When: May 2; 9am-2pm Where: McDowell Tech Universal Bldg., 634 College Dr., Marion
Where: Gold Hill Assembly Bldg.; 191 Academy St., Spindale
More Info: Sponsoring by MLK Committee. Proceed go to MLK Scholarship Fund. Featuring many Gospel Choirs from the community. If interest in being a part on the program as a gospel group, contact Doris at doris.crute@gmail.com. Public invited.
April 24
Free Movie Friday
When: April 24; 8pm
Where: Forest City Pavilion On Park Square - POPS; 153 Park Square, Forest City
More Info: Grab your lawn chairs and join us for Zootopia 2! It’s the perfect way to enjoy a spring evening with friends and family. The event is free and open to the public. To view the FULL event lineup and details, visit forestcitypops.com.
April 25
Kiwanis Club of Rutherfordton 54th
Annual Charity Auction
When: April 25
Kiwanis Club of Rutherfordton Is looking for auction items: If you have something to donate for our auction, email us at ruffkiwanis@gmail.com. Proceeds go to organizations that provide services and benefits for kids in our community. Items suggested: Lawn Mowers, Vehicles, Costume Jewelry, Power Hand Tools, Old Lunch Boxes, Pocket Knifes, Model Car Sets, Antique Hand Tools, Yard/Garden Tools, Antique/Special Pottery, Tractors, Coins, Antique Signs/Advertising, License Plates, NASCAR Memorabilia, Vintage Toys, Air Compressors, Guns and Ammo, Kitchen Counter Appliances, Special Flatware.
Reunion: FII, Celanese, Kosa
When: April 25; eat at 5:30pm
Where: Fisherman’s Feast; 1215 E. Marion St., Shelby
More Info: Come early and socialize!
April 26
Celebrating the Lives & Families of Fred & Maggie McEntire
When: April 26; 3-5pm
Where: Gilkey Ruritan Club House; 115 Painters Gap Rd., Rutherfordton
More Info: The Hollow Collection- When Shingle Hollow was Home, featuring music from Dennis McEntire & the Slab Town String Band with lyrics by TA Price & music & arrangement by Dennis McEntire. Door prizes! Hear the sound of the clawhammer & box banjo. Stories, music, fellowship, tea, coffee & dessert.
87, of Forest City, passed away March 29, 2026.
wife of 58 years, Patsy Hollifield Rich.
ter’s degree from Western Carolina University and worked in the North Carolina state prison system for many years. He was also a member of the Foothills Community Band.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons: John Mark Rich (Jennifer), Shawn Curtis, and Alexander Marmolejo; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
William was preceded in death by his parents, William Augustus Rich and Ruth Henson Rich; two sons, William Ronald Rich and Nelson Scott Rich; one brother, Jack Augustus Rich; and one sister, Dwala Gettys.
A visitation was held April 4 at Crowe’s Mortuary. Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.
Pam Cline
Pamela Gail Cline, age 30, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026.
members.
A memorial service was held April 3 at Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kenneth Linder officiating. An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com
Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Judy Kay McCurry Henson
Judy Kay McCurry Henson, age 75, of Rutherfordton, NC, died Sunday, March 29, 2026. Judy was a native of Rutherford County and the daughter of the late Clyde Pearson McCurry and the late Meldora Greenlee McCurry Lewis. In addition to her parents, Judy was preceded in death by her husband Lowell Bruce Henson and her stepfather, Edgar Hicks Lewis. She was a member of Mountain Creek Baptist
Jesus was preparing his disciples for the darkest days of their lives. He had spent three years teaching and training them for such as time as this. In just a few hours, He will go through mock trials, be scourged, beaten and ultimately put to death on a Roman Cross. Just imagine seeing the one who you thought was your Deliverer and Messiah succumb to such tragic circumstances. All of these events would lead them through a time a deep anguish.
So, what did Jesus tell them to encourage them and to help them handle what was about to take place? He begins by giving them a divine imperative, by saying, “If you believe in God, believe also in me.” Simply interpreted, he is saying, “Trust me.” The one who they have faithfully followed for three years is now asking them to step out into uncharted territory. Their hopes and hearts will be broken as they watch Jesus go through such agony and injustice. With every fiber of their being they would be tempted to doubt everything He had
Joyce Geraldine Taylor
Joyce Geraldine (Stacy)
Taylor age 85, went to be with her Savior March 28, 2026.
Pamela Renee Wall
Pamela Renee Wall, age 64, of Rutherfordton, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026.
Pamela was born October 2, 1961 in Rutherford County to Doris Suttle Earley of Rutherfordton and the late Bratcher Martin Wall, Jr. She was a graduate of East Rutherford High School, class of 1979 and a member of the East Rutherford Alumni Association. She worked as a caregiver for homebound patients. She was a member of Pisgah Methodist Church in Bostic. In addition to her mother, those left to honor her legacy are her children, Jason Stanley (Joanie) of Rutherfordton and Amy Stanley Mode (Brandon) of Ellenboro; sisters, Patricia Wall Karnes of Ellenboro and Shelley Wall Vallecillo (Scott) of Rutherfordton; brothers, Martin Wall (Mary) of Ellenboro and Dayton Rugg (Debbie) of Ft. Mill, SC; grandchildren, Kayleigh
WORDS COUNT
Joyce was the daughter of late Wallace Dean Stacey and Ollie Mae (Rowe) Stacey of Rutherfordton. She was also preceded by her first son William Dennis Anderson and her older siblings, brothers; Dale Stacey, Rondo Stacey, Haydon Stacey and her eldest sister Joann Johnson, all of Rutherfordton.
Joyce is survived by her daughter Jeana Anderson and son Gary Anderson both of Rutherfordton and her son Alan Anderson of Chesnee, SC, her sisters; Shirley McClellan of Rutherfordton and Brenda Lane of Chase, her grandchildren; Samantha Swanson (great grandsons: Ron and Teddy) and Logan Schmaus, Sebastian Anderson (great granddaughter Skylar) and Sierra Anderson (great granddaughter Willow) and many other family members, nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends.
Joyce was born and raised in Rutherfordton. She
Wanda Greene Hill
Wanda Greene Hill, 74, of Rutherfordton, passed away March 29, 2026. She was born September 23, 1951, to the late Boyce and Mildred Greene. She was a member of Welcome Home Baptist Church.
Wanda retired from Rutherford Electric Corporation.
She is survived by her son, Darien Hill (Sherry), and her daughter, Daphnie Davidson (Douglas); six grandchildren, Dylan Hill (Katie), Caleb Hill (Danielle), Steven Atchley (Mia), Cameron Hill (Anna), Sydney Ratchford (Gabe), and Hallie Hill; and three great-grandchildren, River Atchley, Gemma Atchley, and Izzy Melton, two sisters, Carolyn Hardin and Melinda Greene, and one brother, Sammy Greene.
In addition to her par-
Lee McEntire
Leonard Lee McEntire, age 84, of Rutherfordton, NC, went home to be with the Lord Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Born and raised in Rutherford County, Leonard was the son of the late Lee McEntire and the late Rosa Lee Hardin McEntire. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Raymond McEntire, Jesse McEntire, Reuben McEntire, Ronelle Tuttle, and Annie Arrowood. Leonard enjoyed gardening, cutting grass, watching westerns, and fishing. He was an accomplished trap shooter.
taught them. When life is shrouded by the darkness of tragedy, they are to trust Him. He gives them a glimpse of what the future holds. He speaks of the Father’s House and the splendor of it. It is a prepared place and beyond that a place where they will experience an eternal reunion. John later would write of the beauty of Heaven. Jesus makes the grand statement of exclusivity that He is the way, the truth and the life. Anyone desiring to come to God the Father must come through Him. When we are going through similar times of heartache and trouble, we must heed his words. Even in the darkest of times we called upon to trust Him. We can rest assured that there is a better day coming. Do you really believe?
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
Leonard is survived by his wife of 66 years, Patsy McEntire, their children, Randy McEntire and wife Susan, Susan Byers and husband Terry, Bruce McEntire and wife Angie, and Gary McEntire and wife Lori, seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and one on the way. The graveside service was held at Eternal Hills Memorial Park April 2 with Rev. Chris Glawson officiating. McMahan’s Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.
Leonard
ate of East Rutherford High School. She worked for Haven of the Hills in Golden Valley and Good Ole Boys Convenience Store and Grill. She was a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Hunt and sister-in-law, Carolyn Hunt.
Those left to honor her memory include her sons, Zachary McCombs and Shawn Hunt both of Bostic; brothers, Leroy Hunt (Bonnie) of Morganton, Dale Hunt of Cleveland County, Davy Hunt of Forest City, Harley Hunt (Pat) of Bostic, Jimmy Hunt (Donna) of Bostic, Don Hunt (Renee) of Bostic and Lonnie Hunt of Bostic; half-brother, Wendall McCurry (Lisa) of Bostic; several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Alice’s life will be held at a later date.
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Margie Mary Brooks Harlo
Margie Mary Brooks Harlow went to be with the Lord April 1, 2026. She was born October 7, 1935 in Hawkins County, TN, to John Monroe Brooks and Hazel Lee Horner.
Margie loved the Lord and could quote entire chapters of the Bible.
Margie graduated from Church Hill High School. She attended East Tennessee State College and graduated from Towson State College.
Margie met the love of her life at Ridgecrest Baptist Assembly in 1956. She volunteered to help with a retreat for US military personnel. Carroll was in the US Air Force stationed in Myrtle Beach, SC.
children Nick Garrett, Daniel Garrett (Kayla), Hannah Harlow, Carrie Harlow Kidd (Aaron), John Allen Stevens, Jennifer Stevens, and 14 great grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held in Kingsport, TN.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills PO Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043.
Online condolences may be made at www. crowemortuary.com.
Tyler Edward Holland
Tyler Edward Holland, 30, of Forest City passed away March 29, 2026. He was born in Rutherford County, NC.
He attended RS Central High School. Tyler was preceded in death by his grandparents, Judy Henson and Rick Henson, and his nephew, Kohen Jacob Stocks.
He is survived by his mother, Cindy Morse (Shane), his father, Edward Holland; his grandparents, Diane Holland, Wayne Holland (Maria) and Ann Martin (Gerry); his uncles, William Holland (Brian) and Joseph Holland; his siblings, Zuy, Easton, Summer, Alexis (Shane), Sierra, and Madison (Caleb), and several nieces and nephews.
Tyler was a friend to many. He had a big heart for the homeless and those struggling with addiction. Tyler volunteered with his grand mommy at Maw Maws Cheer and filling blessing boxes and helping deliver supplies to anyone in need. A visitation was held
Palma Lavonne Watt
Palma Lavonne Watt, age 67, of Spindale, NC passed away Saturday March 21, 2026.
Palma was a native of Rutherford County, daughter of the late Marvin and Lonie Hutchins Marlowe, widow of Leslie Dean Watt who passed away in 2006 and was a retired respiratory therapist at Rutherford Regional Medical Center.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her children; Dana (Casey) Summers, Lacy Bowen, Bethany Watt, Iva Watt and Andrew Watt; brother Bucky Marlow; grandchildren Katie Conner, Sarah Garner, Britt Petty, Gabe Petty, Jada Pearson, Lennox Pearson, Machaiah Davis, Cameron Watt, Kaliyah Surratt, Kiyon Watt and Rylan Watt as well as six great grandchildren.
A celebration of her life will be held from 1-3pm, Friday, April 10 at Second Baptist Church 191 Green St., Rutherfordton, NC.
Amy Padgett
Amy Padgett, age 45, of Ellenboro, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Amy was born August 3, 1980 in Spartanburg County to Freda Norville Padgett of Ellenboro and the late Ronald Ray Padgett. She worked in the healthcare field as a CNA, EMT and Med Tech for various rest homes. Amy was a graduate of Sun Vally High School in Monroe, class of 1999 and Isothermal Community College.
Provided: Towels, Wash Cloths, Shampoo,
Robert “Bob” Bailey
Robert “Bob” Bailey, age 88, of Forest City, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Bob was born October 18, 1937 in Athens, PA to the late Phillip Cecil Bailey and Georgianna Hicks Bailey. He worked at the Kennedy Space Center for 20 years as a Lead Inspector before retirement. Bob was a Master Mason of the Indian River Lodge #90 for 56 years also a Worth Patron of the Orange Chapter #137 Order of Eastern Star in Apopka, FL.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Ann P. Bailey and a brother, Phillp E. Bailey.
Those left to honor his legacy include his daughters, Vicky Turner (Mike) of Cocoa, FL, Robin Bailey of Forest City and Debbie Bright also of Forest City; grandchildren, Heather Lawrence, Shawn Turner (Altaire), Jason McDaniel (Anna), Melissa Bull and Lucas Bright; great grandchildren, Brody, Audree, Jayson, Bayleigh, Silas, Elise, Pierce, Garrett, Auston, Makenzie and Daniel.
Memorial donations requested to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 950 W. Faris Rd., Greenville, SC 29605 or donate.shrinerschildrens.org
An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.
Daddy spent the majority of his working life.
Going to Carolina Mulch Plus off Spindale Street to grab a few photos for an upcoming story, I spent a little while in the area before heading home.
I turned right from the parking lot and then an immediate right where part of Stonecutter Mills was located.
Daddy always referred to the plant on the right side of the street as “the little mill” across the road from big three-story mill building (or more) where literally hundreds worked and supported families down through the decades.
The little mill is gone today except for the front portion of the building. I don’t think I realized that until last week.
I suppose it was the back door at the small plant where Daddy went in for his shift. For years he worked the third or second shift, but fortunately spent the last 20 or more years on the first shift, which brought his daughters comfort. We were all gone from home at that time and the day shift suited all of us much more. He and Mama spent their last 25 years at home after 4:10pm (his estimated arrival time from Stonecutter) each day.
Daddy retired in 1998 and Mama went to heaven the next year, but before that they took the dream of a lifetime tripacross the United States.
Sitting in the parking lot I could also see Daddy coming out the door of the mill to our family car when he was still on the second shift. Mama had taken him supper that night as we were headed to the emergency room for an injury on my leg. I tried to clear a barbed-wire fence that afternoon while playing hiden-go-seek when I didn’t make it and the sharp wire caught my leg.
When Daddy saw the pretty bad cut, he was upset that I hadn’t been to the hospital before then, so I began to cry. I had talked my sisters into not calling our parents. I remember Daddy asking me if I wanted him to go with me. Of course, I did, so he went back inside and told his boss he had an emergency and would be back shortly. He held my hand
take us over to the Biltmore Ice Cream store in Spindale and buy us a cone of vanilla ice cream. I can’t begin to explain what they (and the ice cream) meant to four, young red-headed little girls.
We had family reunions there, too, and I could see all of us taking food into the back door of the house and having a meal in their front yard. I loved them.
Then there was a turnaround back to Spindale Street where, on occasion, we’d go to Keller’s Cafe for a hamburger, hot dog or a beef dog. I promise it wasn’t often. We didn’t go out to eat, but once and an occasion, we’d go to Keller’s, climb upon the stool at the bar and place an order. I can still see those hamburgers floating in a pan of the best grease ever. No joking. There was not and has not been a hamburger like Keller’s since. Those of you who know what I’m talking about, know what I’m talking about.
And of course, leaving town, I passed by the library and Spindale House where we often played or checked out books. Although we lived in Danieltown and later closer to Forest City, Spindale was the place we went for a lot of things.
Before we were a two car family, we’d go to the mill on Saturdays if Mama kept the car to bring Daddy home; we’d go for ice cream; a hamburger or beef dog with a cold Coke Cola in a small bottle and we’d go to the Mitchell Company for “cloth.”
Spindale was also where our Great-Grandma Crawford lived off Georgia Street. She passed on when I was young, but when I drove by her house those back steps didn’t appear to be more than six or seven from the porch to the ground. As I kid, they seemed like the tallest steps in the world. Do yourselves a favor one of these days. Forget today’s worries and go by the place you grew up, went to school or the municipality where you spent some time. It’ll do your heart good and if you’ll like me, it’ll make you smile Contact Jean Gordon at: gordonjean211@gmail.com
Grade 5: Leah McDaniel, Phoebe Bourrie, Jackson Duerr, Odette Ertl, Lex Maksimenko, Azaria Rowe, Andrew Carpenter
Grade 6: Avery Breedlove, Kelly Pollux, Brantley Lunsford, Craven Newton,
Lake Lure Classical Academy Honor Roll
Isaac Orr, Traveler Wilson
Grade 7: Abraham Allen, Adam Baglia, Julian Carpenter, Sadie Goldston, Tobias Mitchem, Isabel Pecora
Grade 8: Carson Everett, Owen Hankins, Isaac O’Brien
Grade 9: Colby Calhoun, Iyana Chagnon, Alexander Price, Aaron Rivera, Lyla Samolinksi, Anna Sias, Alexander Villalva-Cruz, Greenley White, Tehya Wilson
Grade 12: Damian Cantu Buitrago, Reinier Kruseman,Nina Leighty, Jayla Taylor
McNeil-Miller receives award
Karen McNeil-Miller, Ed.D., president and CEO of The Colorado Health Foundation (CHF) and a former Rutherford County resident has been named the 2026 James A. Joseph Lecturer by ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities. The award will be presented April 21 in San Francisco, Ca. said her mother, Shirley McNeil of Spindale. Karen is also the daughter of the late Solomon McNeil.
“I am deeply honored to be named the 2026 James A. Joseph Lecturer by ABFE, an organization that has shaped my leadership and helped strengthen our field’s commitment to justice, accountability, and community voice,” Karen said.
CLUES ACROSS
1. Absence of difficulty 5. Preserve a dead body 11. Gratitude
14. The act of coming together again 15. More cushy 18. Visionaries
19. Large fish-eating bird
21. Indicates near
Former CIA and CIA critic
24. Icelandic poems 28. Pop
Hammer is one
Selfs
Thyroid-stimulating hormone 33. Nowhere to be found
Electronic data processing
Drivers’ licenses and passports are two
Snake-like fishes
Air Force 42. Popular personal computers 44. Stages in ecological succession 46. Wings
In the center
Pleasantly smooth
Jeweled headdress 56. In slow tempo 58. __ Falls
Reiterations 62. Eras
Hyphen
Expel or eject (variant
12. Ireland
13. Palm trees with creeping roots
16. Fungal disease
17. Tall, slender-leaved plants
20. Affirmative! (slang)
22. It says who you are 25. Atlantic coast state
26. Grow older
27. Associations
29. Woman (French)
31. Sunscreen rating
34. Brew
36. Leader
37. Indigo bush genus
38. Burn with a hot liquid
40. Junior’s father
43. Mackerel genus
45. Morning
48. Straight line from side to side (abbr.)
50. Type of molding
51. Small, thin or twisted bunch
53. Worn by exposure to the weather
54. Mars crater
55. Humanities
57. Relating to the ears
58. “To the __ degree”
59. Residue when something is burned
61. It cools a home
Grade 5: Leah McDaniel, Elsie Rogers, Sawyer Thomson, Annabelle McKiernan, Kylie Sanchez, Charleston Davis, Colton Hill, Emory Sumlin, Erik Threlfall, Lex Maksimenko, Azaria Rowe, Madalyn Powell, Caroline Crowder, Steven Newton, Liam Poole, Jayden Fernanders, Loclee Singleton, Cassidy Needs, Aphena Carew
Grade 6: Eli Chagnon, Nolan Fowler, Suri OwensMatz, Noah Philbeck, Chase Ramsey, Connor Rice,
Consumed
Chinese dynasty
She plans to retire as the foundation’s CEO at the end of 2026.
Each year it awards tens of millions of dollars in grants to hundreds of recipients. The funding goes to nonprofit organizations, government agencies and other groups working to improve the health of Coloradans.
“For more than a decade, Karen has led CHF with extraordinary courage, clarity, and humanity. Her leadership, rooted in equity, accountability, and community voice, has shaped CHF into the strong, valuesdriven institution it is today,” said Dr. Terri Richardson, CHF’s board chair, in an emailed statement. “She deserves the opportunity to step into retirement with the time, space, and good health to enjoy what comes next, and I know many of you will join me in celebrating her legacy and wishing her well.”
“Serving as president and CEO of the Colorado Health Foundation has been one
of the greatest honors of my life,” Karen said. “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being out in communities across Colorado - listening, learning, and walking alongside people who are doing the hard, hopeful work of advancing health equity.”
She joined the foundation in 2015. “I chose this important field of work to be on the ground in Colorado communities and to get closer to those in need and assist in every way I could,” she said in the statement.
She came to Colorado after more than a decade as president of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust, one of North Carolina’s largest private foundations.
In 2025, it awarded approximately $122 million in grants and contributions, according to a spokesperson. It’s given more than $100 million in grants each year since 2020, except for one year.
The amount of money awarded in grants has roughly doubled since McNeil-Miller’s tenure began in 2015. The Colorado Health Foundation awarded at least 660 grants each of those years before 2025; that includes other contributions, donations and sponsorships. The foundation has 75 employees. Karen is former President at Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust; worked at Center for Creative Living, worked at The Piedmont School, studied at Vanderbilt University, UNC-Greensboro and Isothermal Community where she was honored a few years ago as Outstanding Alumnus of the Year. She also graduated from R-S Central High School.
Article Provided By: Colorado Health Foundation
Article Provided By: Lake Lure Classical Academy
Karen McNeil-Miller
ANNOUNCEMENTS
YOU’VE GOTTA TRY CLECO SPICES! Available at Oliver’s Hardware (3712 Fallston Road) Hwy.18 N., Shelby; Hometown Hardware (110 S Railroad Ave.) Kings Mountain; Nature’s Generosity (1074 College Ave.) Shelby and Whimsical Workshop (104 Gidney Street) Shelby. Or visit www.clecospice. com
PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! PRESS ROOM PRINTING. Call 704482-2243.
WE OFFER LAND HOME PACKAGES in Cleveland, Rutherford, and surrounding counties... with little to no money down with approved financing! HEATH’S HOME ZONE 703-5 King Street, Kings Mountain, NC (754) 663-9663
HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED YET? Visit thepixelunderground.com. The Pixel People Pod is our 80s-themed podcast. We discuss 80s things as Generation X kids, such as the toys, music, movies and people we grew up with. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, www.youtube. com/@Thepixelunderground & iHeartRadio!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
12TH TOY SHOW & COLLECTIBLES. Saturday, April 25, 2025 at Old Mooresboro School Gym, 308 Main Street, Mooresboro, NC 28114, 8:00AM-2:00PM. Admission $5, Under 10 FREE. (GRAB BAGS for KIDS UNDER 10) $15 per table. Bring your own tables. CASH ONLY! For Questions Call Keith at 828-3518822 (6pm-8pm) or David at 704-692-7702.
PAID FOR GOLD & SILVER. JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568
UNIQUE CHURCH IN SHELBY. The Chapel of Christ. Visit our website at www. chapelofchristshelby.com (704) 538-7888 tware5@carolina.rr.com
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
CARPORTS
1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880
UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Tues.-Sat. 11am-4pm. Vintage & Collectable Toys, Farm House Decor, Antiques, Hens on Nests, Jewelry, MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on Facebook. Due to road construction, from Shelby take exit 189/Hwy. 120. 828-382-0075.
EMPLOYMENT
GUTTER GUYS NOW HIRING! Metal Roof Installer experienced in various metal roofing applications & Gutter Installer with 3-5+ years experience looking to join a growing team. Competitive pay + benefits package. Apply today! (704) 879-4384
ONE ON ONE CARE, INC. WE’RE HIRING! COME JOIN OUR TEAM! 2nd shift in Residential Group Homes. Rotating schedule- 2p-11p weekdays 8a-8p every other weekend; $15.50 per hour PTO is offered to full-time employees after 90 days. Insurance is available upon hiring. We are also looking for PRN/Part-Time staff to join our team. Contact Shelley @ 704-473-9965 or come by the office at 203 Lee St in Shelby, NC (704) 472-5200 spacker@oneononecare.net
GARDENER WANTED. Seek hard worker with truck for weekly hauling, pruning, weeding, edging but not mowing, etc., at Moss Lake. We have tools. Se habla un poco de Esp. (704) 284-1447
NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-
ERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341
PART-TIME CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR. Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Forest City, NC is seeking a part-time Children’s Ministry Director. Send resume to ejw9738@ gmail.com or mail it to 2676 Hudlow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043.
BUSINESS SERVICES
OFFERING QUALITY HANDYMAN SERVICES! All types of Handyman Services. Trim Bushes, Mulching, Pine Needles, Planting, Hauling and Much More! We also install Mini Blinds, Ceiling fans, Deck repair and Staining, Pressure washing! (704) 692-4449
CUSTOM CABINETS & WOODWORK. Over 25 years Experience. Michael Mckinstry. Custom Woodwork, Cabinets, Light Plumbing, Sheetrock, Landscaping. Veteran Owned. (203) 512-5503
ROB’S LAWN CARE. I do lawns in the Shelby Area. Reasonable Rates! Call (704) 4734660
ANY TYPE FENCE INSTALLED TODAY. We install and repair any and all types fencing. Chain link, vinyl, aluminum, wood privacy, split rail, and even agricultural fencing. Call us today for all your Fencing Solutions. Lisenby Fencing Solutions LLC. We also build decks! Call today. (704) 3187622 shane.lisenby@yahoo. com
FOR REASONABLE RATE
LAWN SERVICE. Call (704) 472-4737
BUSINESS SERVICES
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. (704) 472-9367
HANDYMAN SERVICES. SPECIALIZING IN SMALL & MINOR HOME REPAIRS in the Kings Mountain, Shelby, Gastonia Area. NEW SERVICE: Kitchen Cabinets Refreshed. Renew your kitchen cabinets without replacing them. Save time & money. Call or text for more information. (910) 474-2374
NEED HELP??? Offering painting, debris removal, cleaning, pressure washing and more. Specials for landlords. Reasonable rates. Rutherford County area. Call Thomas 828429-9276. (828) 429-9276
SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Small jobs: underpens, outside fireplace, patios, retaining wallsbrick, block and stone. 40 years experience. Call/text (863) 5321587
HOME REPAIRS WITHOUT THE STRESS. HANDYMAN SERVICES FOR HOME REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS, INCLUDING INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DOOR INSTALLATION, TRIM WORK, SMALL DRYWALL REPAIR, MINOR CARPENTRY, AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE. RELIABLE SERVICE WITH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AT FAIR PRICES (704) 4662333
HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097
MULCH HAULED AND SPREAD. Bulk or bagged (small truck loads). Call Robert at (980) 295-0750 for a fast quote to top off your gardens and beds in Cleveland County.
AUCTIONS
ABSOLUTE ESTATE AUC-
TION. Robert H Gardner (Deceased) LIVE in person ONSITE Bidding and ONLINE
Bidding Saturday, April 11, 2026 @ 10am Preview: Friday, April 10, 2026 - 10am till 5pm Location: 476 Jackson Loop Road Flat Rock, NC 28731
WWW.EJ-AUCTION.COM
Partial Listing: 2000 TYM 4x4
Cab Tractor, Aerial Lift, Cub Cadet Mowers, Welders, Cutting Torch, Hand Tools, Woodworking Tools, Table Saw, Planers, Joiners, Sanders, Nail Guns, Scrape Blade, Pallet Forks, Backhoe Attachment, and so Much More! Edward Johnson Auctioneers, Inc. NC8134, NC8496 (828) 593-9649
YARD SALES
CLEVELAND COUNTY
HUGE 2 FAMILY YARD SALE. Friday, April 10th & Saturday, April 11th (8am-Until). Multiple sets of fine china, Unique gifts and collectibles, one kind and hard to find items, American Pottery, Hand made American Household items, Kitchen Appliances, Furniture, Hand tools, Shop tools, Antiques, home decor’, Christmas, Holidays, and Autumn decor’ and much, much more. Something for everyone. 704-418-9842 text only. 5363 Casar Rd., Casar, NC 28020
HUGE YARD SALE. Saturday, April 11th, 2026 from 7:00AM1:00PM. Clothes, Shoes, Home Decor, Kitchen Items, Pool floats, Brand New Pools, Brand New Toys & so much more.... y’all come see us!! 325 Circleview Drive, Shelby, NC 28150
NO EARLY BIRDS. Saturday, April 11, 9am until. Men’s Clothes & Women’s Summer Dresses. Pictures, Odds & Ends. 4501 East Dixon Boulevard, Shelby, NC 28152
SPRING CLEANING YARD SALE. Saturday, April 11th, 8am-until. Way too much to list. Something for everyone. 7012 Richmond Dr., Kings Mountain, NC 28086
MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE
Saturday April 11th, 2026, from 8:00AM-until. Household items, clothing, kitchen wares, lots of Vintage items are being sold at a discount. 528 Forest Ridge Drive, Shelby, NC 28152
2 FAMILY YARD SALE. Saturday, April 11th, 8:00am-1:00pm. Lots of Good Buys. Homemade Jams, Jelly & Cakes. Cleaning out Building. 311 Stowe Acres, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
YARD SALES
CLEVELAND
COUNTY
HUGE MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE. Lots of name brand clothes and shoes, lots of home decor. Friday and Saturday April 10 and 11, 2026 from 8am-Until. 113 Ocean Dr., Shelby, NC 28152
2 FAMILY YARD SALE FRIDAY. Friday, April 10th, 2026 from 8:00AM-until. Bicycles, Furniture, EZ Ups, TV, Barbie House, clothes, Camping stuff Local Honey, Florida Tomatoes. 4848 Barrett Road, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
YARD SALE WITH ANTIQUES/COLLECTIBLES.
Dozens of vintage Avon figures, Fenton Glassware, Snowbunnies Figures, Antique Crystalware and Tea Set, Vintage Nick Nacks, Antique Curio Cabinets, Home Decorations, Dining Room Table/ Chairs AND MORE! Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 9am. No Early Sales. 1022 Hunter Valley Road, Shelby, NC 28150 (704) 477-3084 theinkman66@ gmail.com
MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE. Sat, AprIl 11th, 7:30 am-Until. Clothes of all sizes, Household items, Furniture and etc. 1914 Carolyn Dr, Shelby, NC 28152
MOVING SALE SATURDAY, APRIL 11 9am-1pm. Various household items/pictures/etc. M/W clothing (M size 2xl-3xl-W size 10-14) Too much to list. Sunshine Storage, beside Marathon Station; 1522 Bostic Sunshine Hwy., Bostic, NC 28018
FOR SALE
FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Also Fire Pit Wood, and Cooking Wood. Delivery Available. (803) 627-9408
RED OAK LUMBER. 1”X8”X12’ Dry $12 each. Also 24’ Werner fiberglass ladder $175. (980) 241-9010
DAEWOO DR 200 .223 RIFLE. GOOD CONDITION + 1000 rounds of Ammo and Seven-30 Round Clips. $2500. (980) 396-5036
FOUR CEMETERY PLOTS. Located at Cleveland Memorial Park in Shelby, NC. All four plots are next to sidewalk at the Bell Tower “Great Location”. $1200 each or all four $3500. Call (704) 466-8295
METAL DRUMS $15. 55 gallon metal drums. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net
55 GALLON METAL DRUMS. $15 for one or 2 for $20. Shelby, NC. (704) 300-1818
BURIAL PLOTS. $1500 for two burial plots in Cleveland Memorial Park. Lot
HUGE 3 FAMILY YARD SALE. Saturday, April 11th, 8am-2pm. Furniture, Household items, Tools, Clothes and much more. 107 Autumn Lane, Shelby, NC 28152
FOR SALE
NEW LIFT CHAIR RECLINER. for sale. $500 negotiable. Text for pictures or more information. 704-734-7754.
COLLECTIBLE BARBIES.
60 Holiday and Avon Barbies. Would like to sell as group for $1,000. Please call 803-3672995
TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER
TRAILERS, FLATBED TRAILERS, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867
HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855
WHEEL HORSE 312-8 Garden
Tractor. Call for details. (803) 627-6067
JAKE’S SILVER COINS & BARS. & GOLD COINS & BARS. “WE BUY & SELL SILVER AND GOLD! JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS LOCATED AT 1008 S. LAFAYETTE ST., SHELBY 704-600-6996 OR (980) 295-5568
STORAGE BUILDINGS
1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880
TRAILERS • TRAILERS • TRAILERS. Utility, Enclosed, Dump, Gooseneck, Equipment, Aluminum. Car or Tractor Haulers. “All In Stock!” Parts Department, Service Department “One Stop Shop!” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
TROY BILT HORSE TILLER. With new motor. (704) 4736587 METAL ROOFING ! Metal
Roofing - 1 Piece or the Whole Rooftop. “We Also Can Deliver” Deliveries Every Monday & Thursdays. J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
STEEL BUILT BUILDINGS, CARPORTS, GARAGES, BARNS or WAREHOUSES. Engineered Drawings. “If You Have Vacant Land.... This Can Be The Perfect Source For Rental Income!” One of North Carolina’s Largest Site Displays. We do grading, concrete, plumbing, etc. J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
MEN’S NEW CRUISER BICYCLE $50. Kenwood stereo system, two big speakers $150. Three DVD players $30. (828) 782-7221
NEW DINING ROOM TABLE by CHROME CRAFT. $700. Retails for $1399. Walnut color, 42”x58” or 42”x76” with leaf. (828) 305-3191
CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PARK. Double Lawn Crypt with Bronze for 2. Value at over 10K, asking $4000. (704) 692-4894
OLD SCHOOL GAS JUGS. All SEVEN jugs for $25, ONE 2-1/2, TWO 2 gal and FOUR 1gal jugs. $25.00 (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth. net
STORAGE BUILDINGS !!! Buy One Off The Lot OR Have One Custom Built With Your Colors & Options! Cash • Finance • Rent to Own. “No Credit Check” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895
55 GALLON METAL DRUMS. $15 Each OR $20 for Two. (704) 300-1818
CARPORTS & GARAGES. RV, Boat or Camper Covers. One of North Carolina’s Oldest Dealers! J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
WANT TO BUY
WANT TO BUY
WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006
MILITARY COLLECTOR SPECIALIZING IN War Items. WTB- US, German, Japanese & Military Guns, S&W & Colt. War Souvenirs, Flags, Blades, Bayonets, Helmets Legally Licensed (828) 980-3329
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
FARM & GARDEN
GARDEN EQUIPMENT FOR SALE. Troy Bilt 8 HP Tiller, Troy Bilt Jr. Tiller, Push Planter with plates and Push spreader. $1,600 for all. 704-616-0253.
GARDEN TILLING SERVICES AVAILABLE. Tractor with 6’ rototiller. No job too big or small ! (704) 692-4079
PETS & LIVESTOCK
AKC DACHSHUND MALE
PUPPY. Black with white markings. Wormed and vet checked, 6 weeks old. (704) 473-1393 robertknox1960@gmail.com
PITBULL PUPPIES - FREE. Three male pitbull puppies approximately 12 weeks. No papers or shots but they have been dewormed. All you have to do is come pick them up! TEXT if interested (704) 860-2647
MTN FEIST PUPPIES. 6 weeks old, full blooded. 1st round of shots & wormed. (828) 429-7452
2 MALE CHIHUAHUAS, $200. Registration papers and birth certificates. 704-813-5981
6 GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. $300 each. 2 females, 4 males. Mom and dad on site. 704-813-5981
4 MALE CHIWEENIE PUPPIES. 3 chocolates, 2 long hair, 2 short hair- 1 chocolate, 1 black. Eating solid food, drinking water, 8 weeks old. $350$400 each. 704-466-5790
PETS & LIVESTOCK
CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES READY NOW. I have seven adorable Chihuahua puppies ready to go. No papers or shots but they have been getting worming medicine. There are six males and one female. 5 Males: $300 each. Tiny male & female: $350. TEXT if interested (704) 8602647
MALTESE PUPPIES, 8 WEEKS OLD. Dual Registry, CKC & North American Pure Bred Registry. UTD, shots & worming, 2 males. $800. (704) 419-0852
CARS & TRUCKS
2013 CHEVY 2500, 2 DOOR. Long bed, black. $8000. Also 2008 Ford F-350, 4x4 extended cab, white. $8000. (704) 4877981
2009 FORD ECONOLINE COMMERCIAL CHASSIS 178,000 miles. Auto., White, Two ladder racks. $6000 obo (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net
CAMPERS
2011 FOREST RIVER 31’ with 3 slides. As is $1300.00. Leave message, will return call after 5pm. (828) 429-6361
2002 RV PACE ARROW 35 ft. Queen bed, washer/dryer, large shower, 2 slide-outs, 2 TV’s. Great for home and living purpose. PRICE REDUCED $28,000! (704) 473-8289
MOTORCYCLES & ATVS
2000 SUZUKI INTRUDER 800. Excellent condition, 21,000 miles, new tires, brakes, battery, Corbin Exhaust, forward controls, just tuned for the season with 2 helmets. $3500. (828) 305-3191
REAL ESTATE
CLEVELAND COUNTY
BARNDOMINIUM-MODULAR-DOUBLE WIDES set up on your land with no money down! HEATH’S HOME ZONE 703-5 King Street, Kings Mountain, NC. (754) 663-9663
1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880 METAL ROOFING
HORSE BARNS OR LIVESTOCK RUN IN SHEDS. Barns - Grading, Concrete & Electrical Work If Needed, OR Just Install in Your Pasture. “Large Onsite Display!” J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
NEW, USED, BANK REPO’S BUILDINGS, TRAILERS & CARPORTS. (828) 245-5895
J. JOHNSON TRAILER SALES. New, Used, Bank Repo’s, Parts, Service, Sales, Finance or Rent to Own. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
1985 CREE 5TH WHEEL
$2,000. 2005 Sebring Convertible. Nice car! $3995. Also... WANTED 100 JUNK CARS AND TRUCKS WEEKLY. We pay top dollar! (864) 251-3967
WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.
PAID FOR CASE POCKET KNIVES. JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-6006996 or (980) 295-5568
WE BUY, SELL, TRADE TRAILERS. “Must Have Title”. (828) 245-5895
DOG KENNELS “ALL SIZES” IN STOCK! 7x7x4; 5x10x6; 10x10x4; 10x10x6; 10x10x6 Split Kennels for 2 Dogs, 10x20x6, ETC. Rain Tops & Dog Houses. “We Can Also Deliver and Install If Needed!”
J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895
SHIH TZU YORKIES SHORKIES TEACUP Mini. Male. Raised in our home, Vet check, 3 parvo & rabies shots, microchip, going outside, many extras, serious inquiries. Starting at $600. (864) 623-8803 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail.com
2015 NISSAN 370Z Nismo Tech. Twin Turbo, 44K +miles, 6 speed, Automatic. Never Rain Driven, Beautiful mid Deep Red. Red & Black Interior. $27,900 Firm. (Shelby, NC). Leave phone number or text with your name. (704) 898-7645
CAMPERS
2024 EDDIE BAUER 33FK CAMPER. Spacious and comfortable camper featuring two slide-outs for extra living space. Includes a private queen bedroom and a cozy fireplace. “Perfect for relaxing on the road or extended stays.” Size: 37’ 3/4” L x 11’2” H. Has washer & dryer. Well maintained and ready to travel. Serious inquiries only. $52,000. (704) 473-7415
return call after 5:00 pm. (704) 300-2193
3BEDROOM 2BATH 2STORY HOME FOR SALE. $229,900. FOR SALE -IT’S LIKE YOU ARE LIVING IN A MOUNTAIN RESORT HOME - 3BEDROOM, 2BATH - FULLY REMODELED 2 STORY HOMECORNER LOT - 3 MINUTES FROM HWY 74. CREST SCHOOL DISTRICT - CENTRAL HEAT & AIR. DUKE POWER- CLEVELAND CO. WATER - NEW HVACNEW DISHWASHER- NEW PAINT, FLOORING- NEW BUTCHER BLOCK COUNTER TOP- NEW MARBLE BACKSPLASH - NEW CABINETS - NEW BATHROOM VANITY- NEW LIGHTINGOFFICE DESK WORK STATION, & SO MUCH MORE. CALL BETWEEN 9AM7PM. SHELBY, NC 28152 (704) 472-6298 BMORGAN0328@ICLOUD.COM
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE. Has 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications now. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@RPMMANAGED.COM
30’X60’ METAL STORAGE BUILDING. Located at 663 Mooresboro Rd, Shelby. $300 month. (704) 472-3565
HOUSE NEAR GROVER. 2 Bedroom 1.5 Bath. $1100 Rent plus deposit. (704) 473-4654
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
8X40 STORAGE SPACE AVAILABLE $275 per month for 8’x40’ storage space, 2 available. ALSO 8’x10’ and 8’x15’ available. Call for details (704) 482-7880 info@getabuilding.com
