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<title><![CDATA[McDowellNews.com: Community Briefs]]></title>
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<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/06/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


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<description><![CDATA[McSmiles registration for 3 and 4-year-olds is now taking place. To register, call 442-4534. Students must be of age by Aug. 31, 2009.

The following classes will be held at the JobLink Career Center for April: ABE/GED orientation beginning Tuesday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, April 21 at 9 a.m.; and Tuesday, April 28 at 5:30 p.m.; an HRD career planning and assessment course beginning Monday, April 27 to Thursday, April 30 from 1 to 4 p.m.; a resume and internet job search course on Monday, April 27 to Wednesday, April 29 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a "Surviving a Layoff" course on Monday, April 20 to Friday, April 24 from 9 a.m. to noon. To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105. 

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by today. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

Anyone planning to take courses at McDowell Tech this summer or fall should come in now to complete a free application for admission, and required placement tests. For more information, call 652-6021. Space is limited.  

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery through Friday. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

The McDowell County Democrat Executive Committee will meet tonight at 5:30 p.m. at headquarters. 

The Nebo Lunch Bunch will meet Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. in the educational building of Nebo United Methodist Church.

Anyone interested in helping form a 40-year reunion for the Marion High Class of 1969, is encouraged to meet at Wine Ruels on Tuesday at 7 p.m.

The McDowell County Mental Health Association will meet Wednesday at noon at the Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Center, located at 75 Crawford Street in Marion. For more information, call 652-2610.

The city of Marion administrative offices and Public Works Department will be closed for Good Friday. There will be no change in the residential garbage and recycling schedule this week. There will be a partial brush pick up on Tuesday, April 14.  All other residential garbage and recycling will picked up on a regular schedule the week of April 13-17. 

Newcomers and Friends of McDowell County will meet Tuesday, April 14, for a luncheon at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church, located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a tea party presented by Diane Eaton and Sue Wynn. Cost of lunch (optional) is $10. Social hour begins at 11 a.m.  To make a reservation, call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. on Friday.  Social hour begins at 11:00 AM with the business meeting beginning promptly at 11:30.  

The Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department will hold a Boston butt sale on Saturday. To preorder, call 659-3692. You can pick up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The cost is $20.

McDowell Memorial Park will host an Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday. If you, as a church or a pastor, would like to participate or lead this service, contact Janet at 652-3323.    

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside Bar-B-Que, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan Pizza Plus, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

A Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank, 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Extra McDowell High yearbooks are still available and can be purchased for $64.20 by calling the school at 652-7920. Few are left and are available on a first-come-first serve basis. 

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Friends of the McDowell County Public Library will have their spring book sale April 18 – 25.  April 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is a preview day for members of the Friends of the Library. Monday through Friday hours for the book sale will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Thursday, items will be on sale for half price. Friday and Saturday will be bag of books for $1.

City Officials has designated the week of April 20 through April 24 as the Annual Clean Sweep this year. During this week, the city will pick up large heavy items that normally require a special pick-up, at no charge to the resident. To insure prompt service, call 652-4224 if you place something out for pick-up.  

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet Thursday, April 23 at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

The McDowell Mission is having a port-a-pit chicken dinner on Friday, April 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Marion Community Building. Cost is $7.50 and includes a half-chicken, slaw, baked beans, roll, dessert and tea. 

The McDowell Children's Summit, sponsored by the McDowell Partnership for Children and McDowell County Schools, will be held Friday, April 24, at McDowell Tech. This free children's conference will feature a keynote by John Parker, executive director of Good Work; a State of the Child panel discussion with local leaders; a storytelling demonstration by David Novak; breakout sessions on topics ranging from early childhood to dropout prevention, and much more. Pre-registration is required by visiting www.mcdowellpartnership-smartstart.org.

The McDowell Junior Horse Show and Clinic will be held Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. on the showgrounds, located off N.C. 226 South. Those attending are asked to bring two items of non-perishable foods to help support less fortunate families in McDowell County. For more information, call Mario DeLuca at 652-7874 or Dixie Matthews at 803-3777. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at 1 p.m.

Marion Elementary will hold a Family Fun Night on Friday, May 1 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This Relay for Life fundraiser will include a spaghetti dinner and variety show, with staff and students providing the entertainment. Cost for dinner is $7 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, call 652-2141.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.

Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.

Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.

The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.

Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.

Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.

Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.

Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.

Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.







































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 06 Apr 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/03/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/03/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Marion Elementary will hold a Family Fun Night on Friday, May 1 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This Relay for Life fundraiser will include a spaghetti dinner and variety show, with staff and students providing the entertainment. Cost for dinner is $7 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, call 652-2141.

The McDowell Children's Summit, sponsored by the McDowell Partnership for Children and McDowell County Schools, will be held Friday, April 24, at McDowell Tech. This free children's conference will feature a keynote by John Parker, executive director of Good Work; a State of the Child panel discussion with local leaders; a storytelling demonstration by David Novak; breakout sessions on topics ranging from early childhood to dropout prevention, and much more. Pre-registration is required by visiting www.mcdowellpartnership-smartstart.org.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

P.G. High Alumni will meet tonight at 6 p.m. at P.G. Baptist Church. Bring a covered dish.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday from noon to 1 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

MACA is offering a basket-weaving workshop beginning Saturday. For more information, call 652-8610.

David Merryman with Catawba Riverkeeper, Inc., will hold a special presentation on the Catawba River Basin programs at 6 p.m. Saturday at St. John's Episcopal Church's Parish House. A reception hosted by the Green Committee will follow. For more information, call Martha Zimmerman at 652-2059.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10, or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held Monday. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery Monday to Friday, April 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

The McDowell County Democrat Executive Committee will meet Monday at 5:30 p.m. at headquarters. 

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

Anyone interested in helping form a 40-year reunion for the Marion High Class of 1969, is encouraged to meet at Wine Ruels on Tuesday at 7 p.m.

The McDowell County Mental Health Association will meet Wednesday at noon at the Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Center, located at 75 Crawford Street in Marion. For more information, call 652-2610.

The city of Marion administrative offices and Public Works Department will be closed for Good Friday on April 10. There will be no change in the residential garbage and recycling schedule the week of Monday to Friday, April 10. There will be a partial brush pick up on Tuesday, April 14.  All other residential garbage and recycling will picked up on a regular schedule the week of April 13-17. 

Newcomers and Friends of McDowell County will meet Tuesday, April 14, for a luncheon at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church, located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a tea party presented by Diane Eaton and Sue Wynn. Cost of lunch (optional) is $10. Social hour begins at 11 a.m.  To make a reservation, call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. on Friday, April 10.  Social hour begins at 11:00 AM with the business meeting beginning promptly at 11:30.  

The Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department will hold a Boston butt sale on Saturday, April 11. To preorder, call 659-3692. You can pick up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The cost is $20.

McDowell Memorial Park will host an Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 12. If you, as a church or a pastor, would like to participate or lead this service, contact Janet at 652-3323.    

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside Bar-B-Que, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan Pizza Plus, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

A Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank, 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Extra McDowell High yearbooks are still available and can be purchased for $64.20 by calling the school at 652-7920. Few are left and are available on a first-come-first serve basis. 

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Friends of the McDowell County Public Library will have their spring book sale April 18 – 25.  April 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is a preview day for members of the Friends of the Library. Monday through Friday hours for the book sale will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Thursday, items will be on sale for half price. Friday and Saturday will be bag of books for $1.

City Officials has designated the week of April 20 through April 24 as the Annual Clean Sweep this year. During this week, the city will pick up large heavy items that normally require a special pick-up, at no charge to the resident. To insure prompt service, call 652-4224 if you place something out for pick-up.  

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The McDowell Mission is having a port-a-pit chicken dinner on Friday, April 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Marion Community Building. Cost is $7.50 and includes a half-chicken, slaw, baked beans, roll, dessert and tea. 

The McDowell Junior Horse Show and Clinic will be held Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. on the showgrounds, located off N.C. 226 South. Those attending are asked to bring two items of non-perishable foods to help support less fortunate families in McDowell County. For more information, call Mario DeLuca at 652-7874 or Dixie Matthews at 803-3777. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at 1 p.m.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.

Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.

Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.

The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.

Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.

Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.

Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.

Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.

Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.







































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 03 Apr 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Church News]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/03/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/03/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[
Lighthouse Baptist Church, located off Rolands Chapel Road, will have a youth cookout, along with an Easter egg hunt and games, on Sat. April 11 beginning at 4 p.m. Also, sunrise services will be observed on Easter Sunday at 6 a.m. with breakfast following the service.

McDowell Memorial Park will host an Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 12. If you, as a church or a pastor, would like to participate or lead this service, contact Janet at 652-3323.    

Grandview Baptist Church will hold a special presentation titled "Freedom through Christ," on Friday at 7 p.m. A short film will be shown along with a personal testimony and discussion about the path to true freedom. The church is located at 303 Reservoir Road in Marion. For questions, call 553-6165.


Woodlawn Baptist Church will hold an Easter play on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7 p.m. nightly. The church is located on U.S. 221 North.

Clinchfield Baptist Church will have an all-you-can-eat breakfast Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. 

Carson's Chapel Church will hold an old fashioned country breakfast and bake sale Saturday from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for kids 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat for free. 

Ebenezer United Methodist Church will have a chicken and dumplings dinner Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults, and $4 for children 9 years and under. 

Unity Full Gospel Church will have a barbecue dinner Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m. Cost is $7.50 per plate and includes beans, slaw, barbecue, roll, tea or coffee. For more information, call 738-8266.

Charity Mission Free Will Baptist Church, located on Deer Park Road in Nebo, will have a Poor Man's Supper Saturday from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Singing with Gaining Ground, Just As I Am, Kenny Owensby, Ron Evans, and others will begin at 7 p.m.

Turkey Cove Baptist Church will present the Easter drama, "Behold the Man" on Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 5 at 6 p.m. The church is located at 3146 N.C. 226A.

Ridgeway Free Will Baptist Church will have a special singing Saturday at 7 p.m. with Glory Bound. 

St. Mark's and Glenwood United Methodist Church choirs will present the Easter musical, "Amazing Grace: My Chains are Gone," on Sunday at both churches. Glenwood's will begin at 9:30 a.m., and St. Mark's at 11 a.m. A potluck dinner will follow after the 11 a.m. presentation. For more information, call 724-4656.

Living Stones Christian Holiness Church, located on 40 Virginia Avenue, will hold a new church dedication Sunday at 4 p.m. This event will be conducted by Bishop L. Brown of Gastonia. Dinner will follow. Service for the church begins at 11 a.m., with this Sunday's service being led by Bishop Shawn Hooper of Morganton.

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church will show the movie "Passion of the Christ," on Sunday at 6 p.m. Also, the church will hold an Easter sunrise service on Sunday, April 12 at 6:30 a.m. with breakfast to follow at 7:30 a.m. Regular service will begin at 11 a.m.

St. Mark's United Methodist Church will hold the following Easter services: a Maundy Thursday service on Thursday, April 9 at 7 p.m.; a Good Friday service on Friday, April 10 at 7 p.m.; and Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 11 at 3 p.m.; a Holy Saturday presentation of the Mel Gibson film, "Passion of the Christ," on Saturday, April 11 at 6 p.m.; an Easter Sonrise service on Sunday, April 12 at 7 a.m., with a potluck breakfast to follow; and an Easter Sunday service on Sunday, April 12 at 11 a.m. For more information, call 724-4656.

St. John's AME Church, located on U.S. 70 East in Nebo, will hold an egg hunt Friday, April 10 at 1 p.m. Fish plates, and hamburger and hot dog plates, will be available for purchase.

Old Fort United Methodist Church's women will have their annual Easter bake sale Saturday, April 11, beginning at 9 a.m. 

Lighthouse Baptist Church, located off Rolands Chapel Road, will have a youth cookout, along with an Easter egg hunt and games, on Sat. April 11 beginning at 4 p.m. Also, sunrise services will be observed on Easter Sunday at 6 a.m. with breakfast following the service.

Providence United Methodist Church will have an Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Along with the hunt will be crafts, a free pizza lunch, and a special visit from the Easter bunny.

Trinity Hill Free Will Baptist Church, located on U.S. 70 East, will hold an Easter program Sunday, April 12 entitled "He Lives!" The show will begin at 11 a.m. 

Story Memorial Presbyterian Church will hold Easter morning worship on Sunday, April 12 at 10 a.m. The church is located on Shady Lane in Marion.

New Horizon Baptist Fellowship will hold a spring fling Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fling will include a car show, yard sale, bake sale. There will also be hamburgers, hot dogs, and barbecue plates and sandwiches for purchase. For more information, call 756-2203 or 652-6122. A rain date is scheduled for May 2.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 








































Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church's women's group will hold a breakfast and church-wide yard sale on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults, $3 for kids under 12, and free for 6 and under. The church is located at 1496 Jacktown Road in Marion.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 

















































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 03 Apr 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/02/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/02/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[The McDowell Children's Summit, sponsored by the McDowell Partnership for Children and McDowell County Schools, will be held Friday, April 24, at McDowell Tech. This free children's conference will feature a keynote by John Parker, executive director of Good Work; a State of the Child panel discussion with local leaders; a storytelling demonstration by David Novak; breakout sessions on topics ranging from early childhood to dropout prevention, and much more. Pre-registration is required by visiting www.mcdowellpartnership-smartstart.org.

Anyone interested in helping form a 40-year reunion for the Marion High Class of 1969, is encouraged to meet at Wine Ruels on Tuesday at 7 p.m. 

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.

McDowell County EMS is launching an explorer post for 13-year-olds who have completed the eighth grade. An informational meeting about the program will be held tonight at 7 p.m. in the commission boardroom of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-3982.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

P.G. High Alumni will meet Friday at 6 p.m. at P.G. Baptist Church. Bring a covered dish.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday from noon to 1 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

MACA is offering a basket-weaving workshop beginning Saturday. For more information, call 652-8610.

David Merryman with Catawba Riverkeeper, Inc., will hold a special presentation on the Catawba River Basin programs at 6 p.m. Saturday at St. John's Episcopal Church's Parish House. A reception hosted by the Green Committee will follow. For more information, call Martha Zimmerman at 652-2059.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10, or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held Monday, April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery Monday to Friday, April 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

The McDowell County Democrat Executive Committee will meet Monday at 5:30 p.m. at headquarters. 

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The city of Marion administrative offices and Public Works Department will be closed for Good Friday on April 10. There will be no change in the residential garbage and recycling schedule the week of Monday to Friday, April 10. There will be a partial brush pick up on Tuesday, April 14.  All other residential garbage and recycling will picked up on a regular schedule the week of April 13-17. 

Newcomers and Friends of McDowell County will meet Tuesday, April 14, for a luncheon at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church, located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a tea party presented by Diane Eaton and Sue Wynn. Cost of lunch (optional) is $10. Social hour begins at 11 a.m.  To make a reservation, call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. on Friday, April 10.  Social hour begins at 11:00 AM with the business meeting beginning promptly at 11:30.  

The Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department will hold a Boston butt sale on Saturday, April 11. To preorder, call 659-3692. You can pick up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The cost is $20.

McDowell Memorial Park will host an Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 12. If you, as a church or a pastor, would like to participate or lead this service, contact Janet at 652-3323.    

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside Bar-B-Que, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan Pizza Plus, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

A Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank, 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Friends of the McDowell County Public Library will have their spring book sale April 18 – 25.  April 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is a preview day for members of the Friends of the Library. Monday through Friday hours for the book sale will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Thursday, items will be on sale for half price. Friday and Saturday will be bag of books for $1.

City Officials has designated the week of April 20 through April 24 as the Annual Clean Sweep this year. During this week, the city will pick up large heavy items that normally require a special pick-up, at no charge to the resident. To insure prompt service, call 652-4224 if you place something out for pick-up.  

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The McDowell Junior Horse Show and Clinic will be held Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. on the showgrounds, located off N.C. 226 South. Those attending are asked to bring two items of non-perishable foods to help support less fortunate families in McDowell County. For more information, call Mario DeLuca at 652-7874 or Dixie Matthews at 803-3777. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at 1 p.m.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.

Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.

Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.

The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.

Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.

Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.

Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.

Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.

Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.







































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 02 Apr 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/01/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/apr/01/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Anyone interested in helping form a 40-year reunion for the Marion High Class of 1969, is encouraged to meet at Wine Ruels on Tuesday at 7 p.m. 

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.


MACA is offering the following classes in April: a wood-turning workshop today, Thursday, and Saturday; and a basket-weaving workshop beginning Saturday, April 4. For times and costs, call 652-8610.

A special reception for Dr. Joe Chung, who is retiring, will be held tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. in The McDowell Hospital boardroom. All are welcome in honoring Dr. Chung.

McDowell County EMS is launching an explorer post for 13-year-olds who have completed the eighth grade. An informational meeting about the program will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. in the commission boardroom of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-3982.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

P.G. High Alumni will meet Friday at 6 p.m. at P.G. Baptist Church. Bring a covered dish.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday from noon to 1 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

David Merryman with Catawba Riverkeeper, Inc., will hold a special presentation on the Catawba River Basin programs at 6 p.m. Saturday at St. John's Episcopal Church's Parish House. A reception hosted by the Green Committee will follow. For more information, call Martha Zimmerman at 652-2059.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10, or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held Monday, April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery Monday to Friday, April 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

The McDowell County Democrat Executive Committee will meet Monday at 5:30 p.m. at headquarters. 

The Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department will hold a Boston butt sale on Saturday, April 11. To preorder, call 659-3692. You can pick up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The cost is $20.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside Bar-B-Que, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan Pizza Plus, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

A Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank, 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Friends of the McDowell County Public Library will have their spring book sale April 18 – 25.  April 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is a preview day for members of the Friends of the Library. Monday through Friday hours for the book sale will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Thursday, items will be on sale for half price. Friday and Saturday will be bag of books for $1.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.

Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.

Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.

The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.

Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.

Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.

Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.

Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.

Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.






































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 01 Apr 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Church News]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/27/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/27/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Chapel Hill Baptist Church will have "Spring Blast" for youth in grades 1 and up, tonight from 6 to 10 p.m. with the musical group "5;17." There will also be food, fun and fellowship.

Clinchfield Baptist Church has tickets available to the upcoming Extraordinary Women's Conference, held May 1 and 2 in Johnson City, Tenn. Tickets are $39 and can be purchased by calling the church at 652-3906.

Upper Room Tabernacle of Jesus will host a young adult and youth revival Friday through Sunday at 7 p.m. nightly, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday. Several guest speakers are scheduled and along with special singers. 

Unity Full Gospel Church, located on Zion Hill Road, will hold a revival Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. nightly. For more information, call 738-8266.

Living Waters Tabernacle Church, located on Moffitt Hill Road in Old Fort, will have a country breakfast Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 5 eat for free. 

Cross Mill Pentecostal Holiness Church, located on Reservoir Road, will have a hot dog sale and yard sale Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the church's fellowship hall. Proceeds will go toward Royal Rangers and Missionettes.

Calvary Temple Church will hold a one-night revival on Saturday at 7 p.m., with sister Amelia Hall and brother Don Warren. The church is located at 1220 Stacy Hill Rd. in Nebo.

Cherry Springs Baptist Church will have a spring celebration Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. There will be food and music by John and Valarie Jarell. Proceeds from this event will go toward Wayside Mission Children's Home. Those attending are asked to call 668-1030

Bethel Free Will Baptist Church, located on Old No. 10 East in Nebo, will host the "Joyaires" on Saturday at 7 p.m. 

Yancey Street Baptist Church's youth group will present the play "That I Still Could Go Free," on Saturday at 6 p.m.

Peppers Creek Baptist Church will have a special singing Saturday at 7 p.m. with the Huffman family and Joe Willis. 

Mt. Calvary Free Will Baptist Church, located on Veterans Drive, will hold a monthly singing Saturday, beginning at 7 p.m.

Carson's Chapel United Methodist Church will hold a three-day revival beginning Sunday at 6:30 p.m. nightly and 11 a.m. Sunday. Lunch will be served after Sunday's service, and a special musical performance by "Living By Faith" will be held Tuesday. March 31. Rev. Arelin Freshour will deliver the message. The church is located on Tom's Creek Rd. (across from the Buck Creek Driving Range and Campground). 

Grace Baptist Church, located on Shady Lane in Marion, will have a singing this Sunday with "IV Grace," followed by a meal in the new fellowship hall. 
 
Going Home Free Will Baptist Church will have a special singing with the Liberty Chapel trio, Sunday at 6 p.m. The church is located at 191 Yancey Street in Marion.

Grandview Baptist Church will hold a special presentation titled "Freedom through Christ," on Friday, April 3 at 7 p.m. A short film will be shown along with a personal testimony and discussion about the path to true freedom. The church is located at 303 Reservoir Road in Marion. For questions, call 553-6165.

Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church will hold an indoor flea market and barbecue plate dinner Friday, April 3 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Barbecue plates will be on sale from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Woodlawn Baptist Church will hold an Easter play on Friday, April 3, Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5 at 7 p.m. nightly. The church is located on U.S. 221 North.


Carson's Chapel Church will hold an old fashioned country breakfast and bake sale Saturday, April 4 from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for kids 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat for free. 

Ebenezer United Methodist Church will have a chicken and dumplings dinner Saturday, April 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults, and $4 for children 9 years and under. 

Charity Mission Free Will Baptist Church, located on Deer Park Road in Nebo, will have a Poor Man's Supper Saturday, April 4 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Singing with Gaining Ground, Just As I Am, Kenny Owensby, Ron Evans, and others will begin at 7 p.m.

Turkey Cove Baptist Church will present the Easter drama, "Behold the Man" on Saturday, April 4 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 5 at 6 p.m. The church is located at 3146 N.C. 226A.

Old Fort United Methodist Church's women will have their annual Easter bake sale Saturday, April 11, beginning at 9 a.m. 

Providence United Methodist Church will have an Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Along with the hunt will be crafts, a free pizza lunch, and a special visit from the Easter bunny.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 








































Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church's women's group will hold a breakfast and church-wide yard sale on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults, $3 for kids under 12, and free for 6 and under. The church is located at 1496 Jacktown Road in Marion.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 
















































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/27/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/27/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[CVS of Marion is selling smoke detector batteries for $2.99, which upon purchase will be donated to local fire departments. For more information, call 652-4343.

Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank, 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner today in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. 

A fundraiser yard sale will be held Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. to benefit the Old Fort Elementary Backpack Project at the intersection of Sugar Hill Road and Mill Road. To contribute items or for more information, call Carolyn Young at 668-7646. 

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fundraiser, will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

A country ham supper will be held at the Whitehouse Community Center on Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat free. Menu items will include, country ham, assorted sides, biscuits and cornbread, dessert and drink. Live bluegrass music will also be performed during this time. 

The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge meets the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort Library, located on Mitchell Street. The meetings begin at 3 p.m. and involve the practice of Native American spirituality and natural health modalities. For more information, visit http://seeks.spirit.tripod.com.

A grand opening ceremony and building dedication for the A.C. "Bud" Hogan Community Center will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. The center is located in Old Fort at 909 East Main Street. 

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.

The JobLink Career Center will hold a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

MACA is offering the following classes in April: a wood-turning workshop beginning Wednesday, Thursday, April 2, and Saturday, April 4; and a basket-weaving workshop beginning Saturday, April 4. For times and costs, call 652-8610.

A special reception for Dr. Joe Chung, who is retiring, will be held Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. in The McDowell Hospital Boardroom. All are welcome in honoring Dr. Chung.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

P.G. High Alumni will meet on Friday, April 3 at 6 p.m. at P.G. Baptist Church. Bring a covered dish.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday, April 4 from noon to 1 p.m.This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside BBQ, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan's Pizza, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

Friends of the McDowell County Public Library will hold a spring book sale on Saturday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (preview day only); Monday, April 20 to Wednesday, April 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Books, DVDs and videos will be available for purchase.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.






































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/26/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/26/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[CVS of Marion is selling smoke detector batteries for $2.99, which upon purchase will be donated to local fire departments. For more information, call 652-4343.

The McDowell County Historical Society will meet tonight at 7 p.m. at the McDowell County Public Library in Marion. Steve Little will discuss the building of the Western North Carolina Railroad. For more information, call 442-7779.

The McDowell County Republican Party will hold its monthly dinner meeting tonight at 6 p.m. at Countryside Bar-B-Que. An executive committee meeting has been called to hear a presentation by Steve Duncan, chairman of the 11th Congressional District. Also, the annual Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner will be held Friday at 6 p.m. in the Marion Community Building. Sen. Richard Burr will be the keynote speaker. 

Blue Ridge Park Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank.  Anyone who would like to make a donation to help can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," Fifth Third Bank , 14 South Main Street, Marion, NC  28752. Proceeds will go toward moving and rental expenses.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. 

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fundraiser, will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

A country ham supper will be held at the Whitehouse Community Center on Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat free. Menu items will include, country ham, assorted sides, biscuits and cornbread, dessert and drink. Live bluegrass music will also be performed during this time. 

The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge meets the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort Library, located on Mitchell Street. The meetings begin at 3 p.m. and involve the practice of Native American spirituality and natural health modalities. For more information, visit http://seeks.spirit.tripod.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

McDowell Technical Community College is offering an ESL Family Literacy Class through the Basic Skills Program for those who need to improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills. The class will held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church in Marion. For more information, call 652-1319 or 652-3229, ext. 17.

The JobLink Career Center will hold a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

MACA is offering the following classes in April: a wood-turning workshop beginning Wednesday, Thursday, April 2, and Saturday, April 4; and a basket-weaving workshop beginning Saturday, April 4. For times and costs, call 652-8610.

A special reception for Dr. Joe Chung, who is retiring, will be held Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. in The McDowell Hospital Boardroom. All are welcome in honoring Dr. Chung.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

P.G. High Alumni will meet on Friday, April 3 at 6 p.m. at P.G. Baptist Church. Bring a covered dish.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday, April 4 from noon to 1 p.m.This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for Old Fort and Crooked Creek in the lunchroom at Old Fort Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Members of those communities are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside BBQ, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan's Pizza, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting for West Marion in the lunchroom at West Marion Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.






































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 26 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/25/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/25/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[CVS of Marion is selling smoke detector batteries for $2.99, which upon purchase will be donated to local fire departments. For more information, call 652-4343.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive today from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Marion Community Building. Free pinto beans and cornbread will be served to those who donate. To schedule an appointment, call 652-6531.

The McDowell County Historical Society will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Marion Library. Steve Little will discuss the building of the WNC railroad. For more information, call 442-7779.

The McDowell County Republican Party will hold its monthly dinner meeting Thursday at 6 p.m. at Countryside Bar-B-Que. An executive committee meeting has been called to hear a presentation by Steve Duncan, Chairman of the 11th Congressional District. Also, the annual Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner will be held Friday at 6 p.m. in the Marion Community Building. Senator Richard Burr will be the keynote speaker. 

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. 

RPW Live Pro Wrestling will be held Friday at the National Guard Armory with bell time beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fundraiser, will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

A country ham supper will be held at the Whitehouse Community Center on Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat free. Menu items will include, country ham, assorted sides, biscuits and cornbread, dessert and drink. Live bluegrass music will also be performed during this time. 

The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge meets the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort Library, located on Mitchell Street. The meetings begin at 3 p.m. and involve the practice of Native American spirituality and natural health modalities. For more information, visit http://seeks.spirit.tripod.com.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Sunday, April 19 at First Baptist Church of Marion, from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by Monday. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The JobLink Career Center will hold a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fundraiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

The Marion Business Association and Corpening Memorial  YMCA will sponsor the 20th annual Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt on Saturday, April 4 from noon to 1 p.m.This event is for children up to age 12 and will be held on the YMCA soccer field. Prizes will be awarded for Easter bonnets in the categories of Most Original, Most Elegant, Funnies and 100-percent Recycled. The Easter bunny will also be there and snacks provided. Bring your own basket for the hunt.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Eat Out for Early Education will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Local restaurants will donate a portion of their sales on that day to the McDowell County Partnership for Children in support of early education. Participating restaurants include Babe's, Bruce's Fabulous Foods, Burger King, Carolina Chocolatiers, Catawba Vale Café, Country Diner, Countryside BBQ, Dutchy Debs, Elliott's Diner, Hardee's (five-lane location), Holly's Deli, Jalapeno Fresh Grill, Little Siena, Maria's Mexican Diner, Market Grill, Mi Pueblito, Moondoggy's, Nara Express, Tagi's BBQ, Titan's Pizza, Waffle House, Wendy's, Whistle Stop Pizza & Subs, and The Wild Moose Steak & Grill. For more information, contact Caroline Rodier at 659-2462. 

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 25 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/20/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/20/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[
McDowell Arts Council's "Soup and a Bowl" fund-raiser will be held today at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m., and Saturday at noon. Tickets are $20 and include soup, salad, bread, dessert, and a handmade pottery bowl to take home.  Call 652-8610 for more information or come by MACA to pick up tickets.

A fund-raiser yard sale will be held Saturday at Old Fort Elementary beginning at 7 a.m. to benefit the Old Fort Elementary Backpack Project. There will be another sale Saturday, March 28 in Marion at the intersection of Sugar Hill Road and Mill Road. To contribute items or for more information, call Carolyn Young at 668-7646. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than today and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

McDowell County Board of Elections will meet Monday at 3 p.m. at the elections office. For more information, call Kim Welborn at 652-7121.

Marion City Council will meet Tuesday at 7 p.m. at City Hall. For more information, call Bob Boyette at 652-3551.

McDowell High will host a junior parent night Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the commons area. Information will be presented concerning students senior year including pictures, graduation supplies, available colleges and scholarships, and more. Dessert and coffee will be served.

A kindergarten transition meeting for parents with children leaving Head Start and the Sugar Hill More at Four Program will be held Tuesday at 6 p.m. For questions, call 652-3229, ext. 19.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

RPW Live Pro Wrestling will be held Friday, March 27 at the National Guard Armory with bell time beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

A country ham supper will be held at the Whitehouse Community Center on Saturday, March 28 beginning at 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat free. Menu items will include, country ham, assorted sides, biscuits and cornbread, dessert and drink. Live bluegrass music will also be performed during this time. 

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday, March 30, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fund-raiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing, a silent auction, and hamburgers and hot dogs for sale.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 20 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Church News]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/20/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/20/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[ 
First Free Will Baptist Church, located on Baldwin Avenue, will have a hamburger, hot dog and bake sale Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Pathway Ministries and Love of Jesus will hold a special study on the book of Revelation on Sunday at 11 a.m. The church is located at 234 Waycross Road.

Upper Room Tabernacle of Jesus will host a young adult and youth revival Friday, March 27 through Sunday, March 29 at 7 p.m. nightly, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday. Several guest speakers are scheduled and along with special singers. 

Calvary Temple Church will hold a one-night revival on Saturday, March 28 at 7 p.m., with sister Amelia Hall and brother Don Warren. The church is located at 1220 Stacy Hill Rd. in Nebo.

Yancey Street Baptist Church's youth group will present the play "That I Still Could Go Free," on Saturday, March 28 at 2 p.m. The play will be at 6:00 during the evening service.

Carson's Chapel United Methodist Church will hold a three-day revival beginning Sunday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. nightly and 11 a.m. Sunday. Lunch will be served after Sunday's service, and a special musical performance by "Living By Faith" will be held Tuesday. March 31. Rev. Arelin Freshour will deliver the message. The church is located on Tom's Creek Rd. (across from the Buck Creek Driving Range and Campground). 

Grandview Baptist Church will hold a special presentation titled "Freedom through Christ," on Friday, April 3 at 7 p.m. A short film will be shown along with a personal testimony and discussion about the path to true freedom. The church is located at 303 Reservoir Road in Marion. For questions, call 553-6165.

Turkey Cove Baptist Church will present the Easter drama, "Behold the Man" on Saturday, April 4 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 5 at 6 p.m. The church is located at 3146 N.C. 226A.

Old Fort United Methodist Church's women will have their annual Easter bake sale Saturday, April 11, beginning at 9 a.m. 

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 








































Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church's women's group will hold a breakfast and church-wide yard sale on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults, $3 for kids under 12, and free for 6 and under. The church is located at 1496 Jacktown Road in Marion.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 















































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 20 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/19/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/19/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

The Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Order of the Confederate Rose will meet at 6 p.m. tonight at Little Siena. For more information, call 659-6377.
 
The Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet tonight at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

McDowell Arts Council's "Soup and a Bowl" fund-raiser will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m., and Saturday at noon. Tickets are $20 and include soup, salad, bread, dessert, and a handmade pottery bowl to take home.  Call 652-8610 for more information or come by MACA to pick up tickets.

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than Friday and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

McDowell County Board of Elections will meet Monday at 3 p.m. at the elections office. For more information, call Kim Welborn at 652-7121.

Marion City Council will meet Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. For more information, call Bob Boyette at 652-3551.

McDowell High will host a junior parent night Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the commons area. Information will be presented concerning students senior year including pictures, graduation supplies, available colleges and scholarships, and more. Dessert and coffee will be served.

A kindergarten transition meeting for parents with children leaving Head Start and the Sugar Hill More at Four Program will be held Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. For questions, call 652-3229, ext. 19.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

A country ham supper will be held at the Whitehouse Community Center on Saturday, March 28 beginning at 4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 eat free. Menu items will include, country ham, assorted sides, biscuits and cornbread, dessert and drink. Live bluegrass music will also be performed during this time. 

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday, March 30, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fund-raiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 19 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/18/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/18/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[The American Legion Post No. 56 needs volunteers to transport veterans to the Asheville Medical Center and other medical appointments as needed. A lift van will be furnished and a clean driving record is mandatory. Must submit a current MVR for consideration. For questions, contact Alan Mainer at 652-2911.

Registration forms for the 24th annual McDowell County Senior Games are now available at the McDowell Senior Center (between 8:30 and 4 p.m.) and Old Fort Nutrition Site (between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.). All adults 55 years of age and older who have an interest in sports and art are encouraged to signup. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. For more information, call 652-8953.

The McDowell County Partnership for Children and Families will have a board of directors meeting today at 12:30 p.m. at Little Siena. Call 659-2462 for more information.

East McDowell Junior High will have "Spring Fling Bingo" for students and parents on Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $1 per playing card with proceeds going toward the McDowell Sports Booster Club. Pizza, drinks and candy will be available for purchase during this time.

The Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Order of the Confederate Rose will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday at Little Siena. For more information, call 659-6377.
 
The Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet Thursday at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

McDowell Arts Council's "Soup and a Bowl" fund-raiser will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m., and Saturday at noon. Tickets are $20 and include soup, salad, bread, dessert, and a handmade pottery bowl to take home.  Call 652-8610 for more information or come by MACA to pick up tickets.

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than Friday and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

Marion City Council will meet Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 17 was rescheduled. For more information, call Bob Boyette at 652-3551.

A kindergarten transition meeting for parents with children leaving Head Start and the Sugar Hill More at Four Program will be held Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. For questions, call 652-3229, ext. 19.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

A free adult CPR class will be held Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial YMCA. For more information, call the McDowell County American Red Cross at 652-6531.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

McDowell County EMS is holding free CPR classes throughout the year. Here are some upcoming dates and locations: Monday, March 30, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Clinchfield Methodist Church; Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hankins Baptist Church; Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., West Court Baptist Church and Glenwood Baptist Church; and Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., McDowell Senior Center. For more information, call 652-3982.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fund-raiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

MACA will offer a basket-weaving workshop beginning April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required by calling 652-8610.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Marion city workers will be cleaning the Oak Grove Cemetery April 6 to 10. Please remove all flowers or other items placed on graves prior to the date. For questions, call the Public Works Department at 652-4224.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/13/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/13/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[The Montford Cove Community Center breakfast scheduled for Saturday has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled at a later date.

Mercy Animal Rescue is raffling off an Easter basket filled with goodies at the Animal Hospital of Marion. Tickets are available now for $1 per ticket, six for $5, twelve for $10 or twenty-five for $20. The drawing will be held April 6. For more information, call Susan Menard at 317-1939.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through today. The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through today. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: belly dancing classes starting Saturday and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; Music for Young Minds (ages 3 to 6) starting Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

An indoor yard sale fund-raiser will be held Saturday in the Parrish House of St. John's Epsicopal Church from 8 a.m. to noon. Proceeds will benefit students in the People to People Ambassador Program.

Foothills Community Theatre's production "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" will run an extra showing due to sold out performances on Saturday. Call 659-PLAY for reservations. 

McDowell Mission Ministries is hosting a benefit shoot-out bowling tournament Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lightning Lanes. Cost is $15 per participant or $30 for a two person team. All skill levels are invited. Interested individuals can signup by calling Cliff Wisor or Bill Warren at 659-6490. Proceeds toward the benevolence ministry for rent, utility, fuel oil and prescription medication assistance. 

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

The Marion Christian Women's Connection will hold a luncheon Monday at 11:30 a.m. in the Marion Community Building. Cost is $9. For reservations, call 652-7274.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. Also, a free educational seminar on this event will be held Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

The McDowell County Senior Center will hold a St. Patrick's Day Dance on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. This dance is for all ages. For tickets and more information, call 652-8953, ext. 315.    

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

East McDowell Junior High will have "Spring Fling Bingo" for students and parents on Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $1 per playing card with proceeds going toward the McDowell Sports Booster Club. Pizza, drinks and candy will be available for purchase during this time.
 
The Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet Thursday at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than Friday, March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday, March 23. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

A Kindergarten transition meeting for parents with children entering Head Start and the More at Four Program will be held Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. For questions, call 652-3229, ext. 19.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

Mercy Animal Rescue will hold an Easter photo fund-raiser on Friday, April 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Open Hands Healing Center, and Saturday, April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cato Fashions. Children and pets are invited to come by and have their picture made with the Easter bunny. Appointment scheduling is required for Friday, April 3 by calling Susan Menard at 317-1939. All proceeds will go toward food, medical care and other expenses needed to care for foster pets.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 13 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Church news]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/13/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/13/church-news/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Unity Full Gospel Church will have an all-you-can-eat breakfast Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. Cost is $5. The church is located at 58 Zion Hill Road.

Clinchfield Presbyterian Church will take Angel Food orders this Saturday from 9 to 10:30 a.m.  There will also be a yard sale beginning at 8 a.m. 

First Baptist Church of Marion's youth choir will hold a barbecue dinner and auction Saturday from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $8 per plate and dine-in or carry-out is available. Tickets are available from the church office or any youth choir member. Proceeds will go toward an upcoming June mission trip to Chicago.

Glenwood United Methodist Church, located on U.S. 221 North, will have a St. Patrick's Day dinner Saturday at 5 p.m. Traditional Irish fare will be served and a program featuring a demonstration of festive games, music and Irish blessings will follow.

Eastside Baptist Church will have Dr. Phil Kidd as the visiting evangelist on Sunday at the 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. services. Special music will be provided by the Roger Henson family. Visit www.eastsidebaptistnc.com for directions.
 
Victory Temple Full Gospel Church will hold a revival beginning Sunday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. nightly, and 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Mike Manual will be the speaking evangelist during Sunday's services. 

First Free Will Baptist Church, located on Baldwin Avenue, will have a hamburger, hot dog and bake sale Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Sister Chicks for Christ, a newly found organization with a vision of holding yearly events for women of all ages and denominations, will hold an informational meeting Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. at Roma's Restaurant. Plans for October's upcoming event will be discussed. Those who plan to attend are asked to call Jean Revis at 317-9533 by no later than Saturday, March 21. 
Calvary Temple Church will hold a one-night revival on Saturday, March 28 at 7 p.m., with sister Amelia Hall and brother Don Warren. The church is located at 1220 Stacy Hill Rd. in Nebo.

Yancey Street Baptist Church's youth group will present the play "That I Still Could Go Free," on Saturday, March 28 at 2 p.m. The play will be at 6:00 during the evening service.

Carson's Chapel United Methodist Church will hold a three-day revival beginning Sunday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. nightly and 11 a.m. Sunday. Lunch will be served after Sunday's service, and a special musical performance by "Living By Faith" will be held Tuesday. March 31. Rev. Arelin Freshour will deliver the message. The church is located on Tom's Creek Rd. (across from the Buck Creek Driving Range and Campground). 

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 








































Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church's women's group will hold a breakfast and church-wide yard sale on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults, $3 for kids under 12, and free for 6 and under. The church is located at 1496 Jacktown Road in Marion.

Marion Christian Academy has a prayer breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the elementary campus, located at 551 Burma Road West. A simple breakfast will be served, for a donation, with emphasis on prayer concerns. For a prayer request, call 652-2033.

Grace Baptist Church has started AWANA youth ministry, held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Classes are available for children ages 3-18. For more information, call Paul Robertson, the church's youth leader at 442-8893 or Pastor Greg Owenby at 442-3796.

Cross United Methodist Church welcomes the community to join its team and become "All-Star Champions" each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for morning worship, and 10:45 a.m. for Sunday School. For more information, call 652-4378.
West Marion Baptist Church is looking for a volunteer music director who can teach the choir, lead the congregation and blend traditional, gospel and praise music. Those interested are asked to call Thelma Owen at 652-7679.

New Testament Baptist Church will have Spanish-speaking service on Sundays at 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Marion has a special praise and worship service the first Sunday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall with music, skits, video presentations, a message and more.

Concord United Methodist Church hosts the United Methodist Women meeting the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and the United Methodist Men meeting the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call 433-5488.

Greenlee Baptist Church has a deaf ministry. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information, call Rev. Ned Webb at 724-4589.

McDowell Children's Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or 738-0733 in the evenings.

The deadline for submitting church news to The McDowell News is Thursday at noon. 














































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 13 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/12/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/12/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[A Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. Anyone who would like to make a donation can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," to Fifth Third Bank, 14 S. Main St., Marion, NC  28752.

McDowell High will hold an open house today from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Parent-teacher conferences will be held and report cards issued. Also, representatives from local colleges and universities will be in attendance, and free food and door prizes will be available. 

The McDowell Honeybees Chapter of the N.C. State Beekeepers Association will meet tonight at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through Friday. The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through Friday. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: belly dancing classes starting Saturday and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; Music for Young Minds (ages 3 to 6) starting Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

An indoor yard sale fund-raiser will be held Saturday in the Parrish House of St. John's Epsicopal Church from 8 a.m. to noon. Proceeds will benefit students in the People to People Ambassador Program.

Foothills Community Theatre's production "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" will run an extra showing due to sold out performances on Saturday. Call 659-PLAY for reservations. 

McDowell Mission Ministries is hosting a benefit shoot-out bowling tournament Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lightning Lanes. Cost is $15 per participant or $30 for a two person team. All skill levels are invited. Interested individuals can signup by calling Cliff Wisor or Bill Warren at 659-6490. Proceeds toward the benevolence ministry for rent, utility, fuel oil and prescription medication assistance. 

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

The Marion Christian Women's Connection will hold a luncheon Monday at 11:30 a.m. in the Marion Community Building. Cost is $9. For reservations, call 652-7274.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. Also, a free educational seminar on this event will be held Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet Thursday, March 19 at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday, March 23. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.





































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 12 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/11/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/11/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[A Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank.  Anyone who would like to make a donation can stop by the bank or mail a check payable to "Blue Ridge Tenants Relocation Fund," to Fifth Third Bank, 14 S. Main St., Marion, NC  28752.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

McDowell Mission Ministries is hosting a benefit shoot-out bowling tournament Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lightning Lanes. Cost is $15 per participant or $30 for a two person team. All skill levels are invited. Interested individuals can signup by calling Cliff Wisor or Bill Warren at 659-6490. Proceeds toward the benevolence ministry for rent, utility, fuel oil and prescription medication assistance. 

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following classes: an HRD career planning and assessment course on Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon; and a resume, application and job search course beginning Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to noon; To register for these classes, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

Corpening Memorial YMCA will hold a Lifeline Screening Day on Monday, April 13 in the multi-purpose room. A four-test package including stroke, vascular disease, and heart rhythm is being offered for $139. Osteoporosis screening is an additional $10. Anyone interested in attending needs to call (800) 324-1851, and enter the source code HSC4945. Also, a free educational seminar on this event will be held Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, e-mail Jennifer Ellis at jellis@llsa.com.

McDowell High will hold an open house Thursday from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Parent-teacher conferences will be held and report cards issued. Also, representatives from local colleges and universities will be in attendance, and free food and door prizes will be available. 

The McDowell Honeybees Chapter of the N.C. State Beekeepers Association will meet on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through Friday.The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through Friday. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: belly dancing classes starting Saturday and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; Music for Young Minds (ages 3 to 6) starting Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

An indoor yard sale fund-raiser will be held Saturday in the Parrish House of St. John's Epsicopal Church from 8 a.m. to noon. Proceeds will benefit students in the People to People Ambassador Program.

Foothills Community Theatre's production "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" will run an extra showing due to sold out performances on Saturday. Call 659-PLAY for reservations. 

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The Glenwood Elementary's Parent Advisory Council will meet Thursday, March 19 at 6 p.m. in the school's conference room. 

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

The MTCC Small Business Center and Marion Business Association are starting a new class for those interested in starting a new business, beginning Monday, March 23. Class will be held at the Historic Marion Depot from 6 to 9 p.m. Registration is required by calling 652-0633. Classes are free.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Yancey Street Baptist Church will hold a benefit singing for Relay for Life on Saturday, April 18 from 2 to 8 p.m. There will be numerous groups performing.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.




































































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<pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 11 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EDT]]></pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/06/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/06/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Newcomers and Friends of McDowell will hold a luncheon Tuesday beginning at 11 a.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a Peebles fashion show plus a knitting club show and tell. Lunch will be provided by Alija's and will include a variety of sandwiches, Greek salad and lemon dessert. Cost is $11. To make a reservation call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. today.  

A workshop on blueberry production for small farms will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room, located in the County Administration Building. Preregistration is required by today and can be done so by calling 652-8104.

P.G. High alumni will meet tonight at P.G. Baptist Church for a covered-dish supper.

Crooked Creek Volunteer Fire Department will have a country sausage breakfast Saturday from 6 to 10 a.m. The menu will consist of sausage, eggs, grits, gravy, biscuits, fruit and drink. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children ages 6 to 12, and under 6 eat for free. 

East McDowell Junior High's Cultural Arts Department will have a yard sale Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. inside the front lobby. Proceeds will go toward an upcoming trip to Chicago for ninth grade arts students.

The McDowell Saddle and Bridle Club will hold its first annual Heritage and Plow Day on Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. on the showgrounds, located on N.C. 226 South. There will be numerous planting demonstrations, horse plowing, a Coggins clinic, wagon rides, bluegrass picking, food and more. McDowell County Animal Outreach will also hold adoptions from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For questions, call 442-6133. 

The McDowell County Republican Party will hold its annual county convention Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m., in the upstairs courtroom of McDowell County Courthouse. The precinct meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. to elect officers and delegates to the district and state conventions. All Republicans are urged to attend.

The Marion Democrat Precinct No. 2 will meet Saturday at the residence of John and Pat Glenn, located at 150 Willow Street. Those who vote at East Junior High are encouraged to attend.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following courses: ABE/GED orientation Tuesday at 9 a.m., Tuesday, March 17 at 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday, March 31 at 9 a.m.; and an HRD resume, application and job search beginning Monday through Friday, March 13 from 9 a.m. to noon. To register, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

An informative meeting on a new Energy Conservation Program (including solar and other forms) will be held Saturday, March 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Corpening Memorial YMCA. Cost is $10 and includes lunch and materials. Preregistration is required by Monday and can be done by calling 652-8104.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: a teen and young adult advanced drawing class starting Monday from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. and running six weeks; belly dancing classes starting Saturday, March 14 and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; Music for Young Minds (ages 3 to 6) starting Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to noon; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

Foothills Community Theatre will hold auditions Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Greenlee theatre at MACA. The featured play will be "Audition for Murder." Four men and three women are needed to fill roles.

An informative meeting for parents of new Splash Students will be held Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Anyone interested in signing their child up for the class is asked to call Eastfield Elementary at 652-3730.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at Glenwood Elementary School on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

McDowell High will hold an open house Thursday, March 12 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Parent-teacher conferences will be held and report cards issued. Also, representatives from local colleges and universities will be in attendance, and free food and door prizes will be available. 

The McDowell Honeybees Chapter of the N.C. State Beekeepers Association will meet on Thursday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through Friday, March 13.The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through Friday, March 13. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday, March 14 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.




































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 06 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EST]]></pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/05/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/05/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Helping Hands Thrift Store, located at 20 Henderson St., is having a 50-percent-off all merchandise sale through Mar. 14. All proceeds go toward Hospice of McDowell. For more information, call 659-1474.

A vegetable gardening workshop will be held today at 1:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. Also, a landscaping design workshop will be held Thursday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. in the same location. Preregistration is required for both by calling 652-8104. 

The Glenwood Democrat Precinct meeting will be held tonight at 6:30 p.m. at Glenwood Fire Department. A free pinto bean supper will be served. All precinct Democrats are invited and encouraged to bring a friend.

Newcomers and Friends of McDowell will hold a luncheon Tuesday beginning at 11 a.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a Peebles Fashion Show plus a Knitting Club show and tell. Lunch will be provided by Alija's and will include a variety of sandwiches, Greek salad and lemon dessert. Cost is $11. To make a reservation call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. Friday.  

A workshop on blueberry production for small farms will be held Tuesday at 2 pm in the Extension Conference Room, located in the County Administration Building. Preregistration is required by Friday and can be done so by calling 652-8104.

P.G. High alumni will meet Friday at P.G. Baptist Church for a covered-dish supper.

Crooked Creek Volunteer Fire Department will have a country sausage breakfast Saturday from 6 to 10 a.m. The menu will consist of sausage, eggs, grits, gravy, biscuits, fruit and drink. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children ages 6 to 12, and under 6 eat for free. 

East McDowell Jr. High's Cultural Arts Department will have a yard sale Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. inside the front lobby. Proceeds will go toward an upcoming trip to Chicago for 9th grade arts students.

The McDowell Saddle and Bridle Club will hold its first annual Heritage and Plow Day on Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. on the showgrounds, located on N.C. 226 South. There will be numerous planting demonstrations, horse plowing, a Coggins Clinic, wagon rides, bluegrass picking, food and more. McDowell County Animal Outreach will also hold adoptions from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For questions, call 442-6133. 

The McDowell County Republican Party will hold its annual county convention Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m., in the upstairs courtroom of McDowell County Court House. The precinct meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. to elect officers and delegates to the district and state conventions. All Republicans are urged to attend.

The Marion Democrat Precinct No. 2 will meet Saturday at the residence of John and Pat Glenn, located at 150 Willow Street. Those who vote at East Junior High are encouraged to attend.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following courses: ABE/GED orientation Tuesday at 9 a.m., Tuesday, March 17 at 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday, March 31 at 9 a.m.; and an HRD resume, application and job search beginning Monday through Friday, March 13 from 9 a.m. to noon. To register, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

An informative meeting on a new Energy Conservation Program (including solar and other forms) will be held Saturday, March 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Corpening Memorial YMCA. Cost is $10 and includes lunch and materials. Preregistration is required by Monday and can be done by calling 652-8104.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: a teen and young adult advanced drawing class starting Monday from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. and running six weeks; belly dancing classes starting Saturday, March 14 and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; Music for Young Minds (ages 3 to 6) starting Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to noon; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

Foothills Community Theatre will hold auditions Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Greenlee theatre at MACA. The featured play will be "Audition for Murder." Four men and three women are needed to fill roles.

An informative meeting for parents of new Splash! Students will be held Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Anyone interested in signing their child up for the class is asked to call Eastfield Elementary at 652-3730.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at Glenwood Elementary School on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

McDowell High will hold an open house Thursday, March 12 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Parent-teacher conferences will be held and report cards issued. Also, representatives from local colleges and universities will be in attendance, and free food and door prizes will be available. 

The McDowell Honeybees Chapter of the N.C. State Beekeepers Association will meet on Thursday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through Friday, March 13.The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through Friday, March 13. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday, March 14 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.




































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 05 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EST]]></pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Community Briefs]]></title>

<link><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/04/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></link>


<guid><![CDATA[http://www2.mcdowellnews.com/content/2009/mar/04/community-briefs/online-events_calendar_/]]></guid>

<description><![CDATA[Nominations are being sought for a scholarship offered by the McDowell County Farm Bureau through Friday, March 13. The scholarship is available to Farm Bureau members who are seniors in high school pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Applications can be obtained through the McDowell County Farm Bureau office, located at 21 Buncombe St., or at your school's guidance counselor's office.

The McDowell County Mental Health Association will meet today at noon in the Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Center, located at 75 Crawford Street in Marion. For more information, call 652-2610. 

A vegetable gardening workshop will be held Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. Also, a landscaping design workshop will be held Thursday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. in the same location. Preregistration is required for both by calling 652-8104. 

The Glenwood Democrat Precinct meeting will be held Thursday at 6:30 p.m. with a free pinto bean supper. All precinct Democrats are invited and encouraged to bring a friend.

Newcomers and Friends of McDowell will hold a luncheon Tuesday beginning at 11 a.m. at Story Memorial Presbyterian Church located on Shady Lane in Marion. The program will feature a Peebles Fashion Show plus a Knitting Club show and tell. Lunch will be provided by Alija's and will include a variety of sandwiches, Greek salad and lemon dessert. Cost is $11. To make a reservation call 652-7628 or 652-1896 before 2 p.m. Friday.  

A workshop on blueberry production for small farms will be held Tuesday at 2 pm in the Extension Conference Room, located in the County Administration Building. Preregistration is required by Friday and can be done so by calling 652-8104.

P.G. High alumni will meet Friday at P.G. Baptist Church for a covered-dish supper.

Crooked Creek Volunteer Fire Department will have a country sausage breakfast Saturday from 6 to 10 a.m. The menu will consist of sausage, eggs, grits, gravy, biscuits, fruit and drink. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children ages 6 to 12, and under 6 eat for free. 

East McDowell Jr. High's Cultural Arts Department will have a yard sale Saturday from 7 to 11 a.m. inside the front lobby. Proceeds will go toward an upcoming trip to Chicago for 9th grade arts students.

The McDowell County Republican Party will hold its annual county convention Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m., in the upstairs courtroom of McDowell County Court House. The precinct meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. to elect officers and delegates to the district and state conventions. All Republicans are urged to attend.

The JobLink Career Center will hold the following courses: ABE/GED orientation Tuesday at 9 a.m., Tuesday, March 17 at 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday, March 31 at 9 a.m.; and an HRD resume, application and job search beginning Monday through Friday, March 13 from 9 a.m. to noon. To register, call 659-6001, ext. 105.

An informative meeting on a new Energy Conservation Program (including solar and other forms) will be held Saturday, March 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Corpening Memorial YMCA. Cost is $10 and includes lunch and materials. Preregistration is required by Monday and can be done by calling 652-8104.

The following classes are being offered at MACA: a teen and young adult advanced drawing class starting Monday from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. and running six weeks; belly dancing classes starting Saturday, March 14 and running four weeks from 10 to 11 a.m.; and a woodturning workshop on March 25, 26, 27 and 28 from noon to 2 p.m., 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., or 5 to 7 p.m. For more information on these classes, call 652-8610 to enroll.

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at Glenwood Elementary School on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

McDowell High will hold an open house Thursday, March 12 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Parent-teacher conferences will be held and report cards issued. Also, representatives from local colleges and universities will be in attendance, and free food and door prizes will be available. 

The McDowell Honeybees Chapter of the N.C. State Beekeepers Association will meet on Thursday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Conference Room of the County Administration Building. For more information, call 652-8104.

Nominations are being sought for a $750 scholarship offered by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Secretaries Association (NCCESA) through Friday, March 13.The scholarship is available to N.C. students pursuing an associate's degree in a business related field of study for the 2009-2010 school year. Application packets can be obtained through the Cooperative Extension office, located at 60 E. Court St., or by calling Jane McDaniel at 652-8104.

Friends of Compassion of McDowell County will hold a benefit auction Saturday, March 14 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Marion Depot. Silent auctions tables will be open from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Ten Broeck will give a musical performance during the event. Cost is $20. For auction contributions or tickets, call Sally Reep at 442-0048 or Kim Camp at 244-3139.   

Sheriff Dudley Greene will hold a community meeting in the lunchroom at P.G. Elementary School on Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Members of the community are urged to meet with him about their concerns, needs and ideas.

The McDowell Honeybee Chapter is taking orders for Italian honeybees. Cost is $65 for a 3-pound package including the queen. To order, call Alvin Searcy at 738-8533.

Anyone interested in learning about the Eastern Bluebird, native to our area, is asked to e-mail Carol Gilliam at ldsmommyof12@msn.com. You can also visit her blog online at www.carolsbluebirdblog.blogspot.com. February is the month in which bluebirds look for places to nest. 

Glenwood Ruritan Club is offering two $500 scholarships for any full-time college student or soon-to-be as of fall 2009. Students need to live within the Glenwood Fire District. Those interested must complete a grant application, and a one-page essay describing future plans. Applications can be picked up in the guidance counselor offices of McDowell High, Marion Christian Academy, New Manna Christian School, and McDowell Tech. Applications must be returned by no later than March 20, and can be returned to 1749 Old Hwy. 221 South, Marion, NC 28752.

Hospice of McDowell County will hold a spaghetti lunch and dinner on Friday, March 27 in the fellowship hall of Marion First United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $7 per plate with dessert and drink included. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. On Thursday, March 26 spaghetti plates can be delivered to businesses and schools by calling 652-1318 by no later than March 23. The cost will remain the same.

Scrapbooking for a Cure, a Relay for Life fund-raiser, will be held Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Cost is $30 and includes lunch, snacks and supper. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling Judy Hawkins at 668-8011 or 443-4564.

Kindergarten registration is May 1 at all McDowell County elementary schools. Your child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2009 to be eligible for kindergarten. This is a change to the eligible date for entrance into kindergarten. Registration packets will be ready for pickup at elementary schools by March 30. You must register your child for kindergarten at the school that is in your home district. For more information, contact Donna Gardner at the Central Office at 652-4535.

The Glenwood High class of 1969 is planning a 40-year reunion, and the planning committee needs contact information on alumni. Contact Brenda Jones Bailey at 442-6781 or Sue Atkins Morgan at 442-0577 if you have any information.

The McDowell High Class of 1999 is planning a 10-year reunion. If you are a graduate and plan on attending, e-mail mcdowellreunion99@gmail.com.

A reunion for anyone who attended Marion High, formerly located on West Court Street, will be held June 27 at the National Guard Armory. Anyone who hasn't received a mailed notification is asked to contact Leon Daniel at (757) 867-4929 or by e-mail at rldaniel@cox.net.
Helping Hands Thrift Store needs donations of resale items. Clothing, furniture, housewares or any other goods are greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to benefit Hospice. Drop offs may be made during regular store hours; every day but Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-1474.
Anyone interested in joining a support group for thyroid cancer patients, as well as their families and caregivers, is asked to call Terri Gates at 724-4849 or e-mail her at tlgates@verizon.net. A thyroid cancer survivor, Gates wants to hold positive, informal sessions.
The Reiki Healing Circle group will meet every third Wednesday of the month at Open Hands Natural Healing Center, located at 76 South Main St. The session will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 527-2563 or 442-3314.
Mysticism, Mythology and Magic is seeking free thinkers for a discussion group. To join, call 527-7839.
The Bear Clan Medicine Lodge will meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the Old Fort library, located on Mitchell Street. For more information, contact lavonneemery@yahoo.com or call 803-7269.

Anyone interested in joining the newly formed Young Democrats group may do so by calling Joel at 460-0791.
Money is available to serve children 3 to 5 years old in need of assistance with dental care. Applications are available from the McDowell Partnership for Children & Families, located at 70 N. Main St. in Marion. Funding is limited. For more information, call 659-2462.
Children in the community who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need a caring adult to look out for their best interests while in the court system. To find out how you can become a Guardian ad Litem, call 652-4632.
Al-Anon, a support group for families and friends of alcoholics and/or drug users, meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church parish house, 339 S. Main St. Teens welcome. For more information, call 652-0088.

A Narcotics Anonymous group meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. and an Alcoholics Anonymous group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. Both groups meet at the Hut of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church on West Court Street.
Local information and services are now available at the Web site www.mcdowellinfo.com. Included are a calendar of events and Web listings for the arts, business support services, education, healthcare, local government, McDowell County facts, public support systems and tourism.

If you or someone you know is a veteran of World War II and currently living in McDowell County, the McDowell County veterans services officer requests you submit a letter with your name, address and phone number for a registry to be made of all survivors. Information will remain private. Information may be submitted to CVSO, 100 Spaulding Road, Marion, NC 28752.

The Marion group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal parish house located at 339 S. Main St.

The McDowell News has hundreds of old photos from its archives that are now available to the public. These photos are from 1985 to 2000 and include sports events, group photos and random shots of people and places throughout McDowell. You can buy three photos for $1. All money collected will go toward the Newspapers in Education campaign. You can stop by the office at 136 Logan St. and look through the pictures published in our newspapers throughout the years.

McDowell County Animal Shelter has applications for adoption dogs that have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and completed an eight-week obedience training class issued by the N.C. Division of Prisons. The adoption fee is $150. For more information, call 652-6643.

HOPE, Helping Other People Excel, a nonprofit organization for mentally and physically handicapped people, is looking for donations of money or time to start an activity center. For more information, call 652-5917.



































































]]></description>
<pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 04 Mar 2009 06:00:00 EST]]></pubDate>
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