Little Charlie wasn't expected to ever be able to speak after he was born with complications that would hinder his speech. Some years later he was brought to The Church of the Exceptional where he attended church with others with special needs from across the county.

Ruff'ton Roots Community Garden is hosting its Plant Sale on Saturday, April 27 under the shade sails at 128 Hospital Drive, Rutherfordton. The sale begins at 10am and continues until 1pm or until sold out.

(Angela Bendord Jamison wrote portions of this story, published some years ago in Carolina Country. The story is relevant today as the New Hope Valley Railway celebration the weekend of April 20 and April 21 includes an exhibit of Cliffside Railroad 110. Jamison runs Communicopia Marketing Services in Wake Forest.)

The New Hope Valley Railway (NHVR) in Bonsal acquired the historic steam locomotive, "Cliffside Railroad 110," about a decade ago and is in the process of restoring it. The steam locomotive was in residence at Stone Mountain Park, Ga. for about 60 years, before it was returned to North Carolina. The Stone Mountain Memorial Association, which manages the park, gave this old-time engine to NHVR located in Bonsal, below Apex in southwestern Wake County.

Sitting in a college class some time ago, a K9 handler with her service dog at her side heard her dog whimpering and would not stop. The handler (who asked not to be identified) and dog Oliver Queen walked to the front of the room where the professor stood. The handler asked several questions of the professor regarding possible medical issues and the professor said he was fine. Oliver tapped the professor on his chest and the handler asked if he had heart issues. The professor did and was advised by the handler to seek medical attention. His life was saved. The service dog detected a serious heart issue.