Blessing of community

Graduation season is wrapping up. None of my kids graduated this year, but many of their friends did.  We’ve attended multiple graduations or graduation parties.

From the back street of 'Dog Town'

In 1958, I was 22 years old, newly married and living with my husband Bill in Massillon, Ohio.One day, I received a letter from my younger sister, Bobby Jean. She was writing to catch me up on all the hometown news. On the return address, she listed Jutts Creek as the “Back Street of Dog Town.

Value of a private education

Choosing to send a child out of the Graham County public-school system into a private voucher school is a big decision.In 2025-26, there were 703 voucher schools in North Carolina: 86% religious with three Islamic schools and one private secular school. The numbers are increasing.

Tie-ins to state title game

We are all very proud of our Lady Knights softball team.Watching them compete on the diamond brings back good memories.I grew up in a mill town, where softball was the summer pastime. We had church- and industrial-softball leagues.I remember going with my grandfather to watch the games.

Leaving signs

I began tracking people in the woods before I started school.My older brother Sam and our neighbor Gerald Phillips would go off into the woods – and they didn’t want a little boy tagging along.

Teacher shortage should be concerning

Without question, there is a shortage of qualified teachers in North Carolina.According to Public Ed Works, North Carolina fell to 50% of the Gross National Product it spends for education.

Cowbells once rang out in high country

There was a time many years ago that if you visited our high mountain balds, you would have heard cowbells ringing out in the distance.Enos C.

Sacrifice remembered

On Memorial Day – when we honor those who died while serving in the Armed Forces – upon us, my thoughts turn to those from our mountain land who died in battle far from home.

Reaping time

I shall see my Lord coming,one day in the air.to gather his church,His kingdom down here.He will take us to the Father,who sent His son,to reap His harvest,When Reaping time comes.Reaping Time is coming,Sowing time is now.Good seed must be planted,upon good ground.

Clarifications and corrections

It has been far too long since I have talked with you, our faithful readers of The Graham Star.A lot has happened. A lot. We are now owned by a new company, but the continued effort to deliver quality journalism has remained at the forefront through the transition.