Finding peace in the Appalachians

We’re mountain people now, my wife and I, at least I think we are. If there’s some sort of initiation, like a Clif Bar-and-CamelBak challenge, we missed that memo.

Rome and Richardson rehab a plus for all of Hartwell

We cannot overemphasize the importance of focused neighborhood revitalization efforts, like what may be soon taking place at Hartwell’s Rome & Richardson area.

I stepped in ‘it’

As my fingers were flying over the keyboard, I stepped in “it.” And I didn’t realize my goof until a reader reminded me that the elite Blue Angels were Navy and not Air Force pilots. Duh. I knew that when I wrote last week about the purple martins swirling over the grave of our beloved dog Amos.

No-hitters are losing their mystique

We’ve seen eight no-hitters in the last five months of Major League Baseball dating back to last season. That’s unfortunately not a good thing. Nostalgia is one of the national pastime’s most endearing qualities, and you lose it when those special moments become commonplace.

‘Reverse mission trips’ build community

Our community is fortunate to have Barnes Academy call Hart County home. The Christian, college preparatory academy in Hartwell is small but its impact is great.

All I wanted was a Coke and crackers

A Coca-Cola and a pack of Lance crackers. That’s all I wanted when I pulled into Manning Tire & Grocery in Gardi. But before pushing the glass door open, I paused to read the handbill: “Schnauzer puppies for sale.” Once inside, I exchanged hellos with the Rev. Wayne Manning and his son, Rooster.

Selfishness played a role in gas shortage

This most recent gas shortage slowed business throughout much of the east coast at a time when some cannot afford another unpredictable setback. As we saw in the last 10 days, Hart County felt the effect. And unfortunately, a lot of the problem was caused by panic-buying.

Taking advice isn’t always best route

When I crank up my truck, Juanita is ready. Wherever I go, she goes. She is full of information. But unless I ask a question, she says nothing. I’ll tell you about my know-it-all traveling companion in a minute. But first, there was this man last Thursday.

Trust our health authorities, get the shot

We reported last week that the number of Hart County residents receiving the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is on a steady decline even though only 26 percent of the county has received an initial dose.

‘Have you called your mama today?’

How far back can you remember? Our three children are convinced that I can remember the day I was born. That’s a stretch, but I tease them that I do recall the ride home from Ritch-Leaphart Hospital in downtown Jesup. My dad, Big Dink, worked for Harrison Funeral Home.