County’s link to Revolutionary War

With the 250th birthday of our nation a few months away, it is time to take a look and see how present-day Graham County might have been affected.  There is no record of a Revolutionary War battle being fought here – although there were battles in North Carolina.

Difference between truth and perception

You’re presumably well-aware of the confrontation and shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis on Jan. 7.  Some might say if you haven’t seen videos, you’re living under a rock – which frankly, is getting more and more appealing.

Resolutions for 2026

I don't know about you, but New Year's resolutions for me personally have worked out about as well as the cartoon printed on this same page, immediately to the left of this column.

Now, the real work begins

With Old Christmas – Epiphany (Jan. 6) – passed, the 12 days of Christmas are completed for another year. We put away our decorations and give thanks for another holiday season.  Yet, the work of Christmas is just beginning.

Endeavor to volunteer

As the new year is unfolding, it is introspection time. “How can I be better at my job?”  “How can I be a better parent?”  Or how about that big one so many love to break, …”How can I lose weight?”  The house seems so empty with the last child going off to college or a new job.

Winter rescues

People get in trouble during all seasons of the year, but it seemed to me that the winter searches were more difficult.  There was usually bitter cold or snow – or both – to deal with. One plus was that it certainly made tracking them much easier, what with their footprints in the snow.

Sunshine and gray skies of life

“Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).  The New Year is a moment to reflect on time as a gift from God, entrusted to us for His glory. Pondering 2025, it’s apparent my year was overshadowed by the tragic death of my eighteen-year-old daughter.

Christmas customs and traditions

Have you ever wondered why we do some of the things we do at Christmas, such as bringing in a small live tree – or artificial – and putting a star on top of it?

Reflection on Christmas message

May the season bring you “peace on earth and tidings of comfort and joy.”  We are told that on the night of Jesus’ birth, the stars shined brightly and guided three wise men to the Savior to honor him. They found Jesus wrapped in simple cloths in the barn, not clothing of fine linen.

A choice to do the right thing

The annual community Christmas children’s pageant was about to begin. Everyone was rushing around – when the director noticed the boy playing Joseph was nowhere to be found.  Just then, the mother of the boy called to say he was sick and could not come.