Tonya Garrison loves people. That love is expressed publicly in her new role as director of the Rutherford County Senior Center. She began at the center as a program manager in 2025. Recently, in July 2026, she became the director.

Many artists have painted and drawn local landmarks and other images of Rutherford County. But few have done so with the heart and spirit of the late James Allen.

Rutherford County Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg and his team of officers and other staff have made great progress in settling into their new headquarters, but there are still a few more boxes to unpack and furnishings and equipment to rearrange. Overall, they are happy to have moved to a more spacious law enforcement center that facilitates greater efficiency and collaboration.

Scott Webber has been named the new Rutherford County Manager. Previous County Manager Steve Garrison resigned the position February 3, to begin a new job with the State of North Carolina as a regional recovery coordinator related to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Since then, County Commission Chairman Bryan King has served as interim county manager.