Maw-Maw's Cheer Ministries is all about providing for the needs of children in Rutherford County and Western North Carolina. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, back-to-school supplies, every day needs, and toys at the Christmas season are all facets of the ministry. But much more than giving a gift, clothes or food, this nonprofit organization is also about building confidence in the lives of children in Rutherford County and Western North Carolina from ages birth to 17.

Sitting comfortably in a lift chair at her modest wood frame home in Union Mills, Rachel Green smiled a lot as her eyes sparkled talking about some of her favorite things.

Mary Elizabeth Bennett, formerly of Forest City and a daughter of Dr. John Mark and June Bennett, has been named the new CEO for Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina.

Children of all ages, sizes and interests and adults were at the Park on Pavilion Square (POPS) in Forest City recently to celebrate the summer reading program sponsored by the Rutherford County Library System.