Ministry gives food to kids
As we close 2025, so we are closing Kid’s Food Bag Ministry at Andrews Elementary and Middle schools as we have known for 20-plus years.
Isaiah 43:19: “Look, I am about to do something new: even now it is coming.”
As we begin 2026, here’s what’s new concerning Andrews Kid’s Food Bags: Christie and Stephen Dartez will lead this ministry using the Second
Baptist Church fellowship building as headquarters.
Sister churches, individuals and sponsors will continue to contribute and support to feed hungry kids.
God blesses when there is unity in serving. Manna will continue delivering bags and supplements will accompany Manna bags. Goal is to provide 135 manna and supplement bags weekly to Andrews Elementary and Middle.
Anyone wishing to donate, see Julie Rowland at Andrews United Community Bank. Every dollar goes to feed kids.
Matthew25:35: “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you?’ v 40..whatever you did for the least of these, you did unto ME.”
Giving God the glory for all these past years. Giving thanksgiving for sister churches, caring, sharing individuals and sponsors meeting this needful ministry.
Kid’s Food Bag Ministry Team Nancy Taylor, Andrews
Keep county moving ahead
Incumbent Sheriff Dustin Smith has done more for Cherokee County than any preceding sheriff has done. He has expanded patrols, 24/7 K-9 coverage on every shift, launched the first medication-assisted treatment for inmates, has engaged the community through National Night Out, Coffee With a Cop, Shop With a Cop, and has spoken openly to groups and meetings around the county. He has also secured more than $1.3 million in grants.
Smith was instrumental in creating the Hiwassee Dam outpost and launching the Sheriff’s Auxiliary. This is just to name a few accomplishments.
Dustin is not a perfect man. The only perfect man was Jesus Christ my Savior when he was walking as a man on Earth. But Smith is a man of integrity and love for this county, born and raised right here.
I trust him and his leadership to continue to move this county forward. He has learned many things in his first term, and I have complete confidence that he will be even better in his second.
Smith is an open book and always willing to talk with anyone to hear your concerns and answer your questions, just ask.
So disregard the noise and half truths you read and hear, and let’s continue to
move this county forward instead of backward with a new sheriff who has to start from the beginning. This county is a hot mess, and we need Smith’s experience.
Penny Johnson, Hiwassee Dam
You matter, now and then
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and Stalking Awareness Month. To anyone who may be living in fear:
If something in your life doesn’t feel right, if someone’s attention feels unwanted or frightening, you are not overreacting, and you are not alone. Fear, confusion, and self-doubt are common when someone is experiencing stalking or abuse, but none of this is your fault.
You deserve to feel safe in your own home, at work, and in your daily life. Help is available, and there are people in our community who will listen, believe you, and support you without judgment. Reaching out can feel overwhelming, but even one small step, such as talking to a trusted friend, can begin to bring relief and clarity.
You are not weak for needing help. You are strong for surviving and for considering your safety There is hope beyond fear, and there are resources ready to walk beside you.
Your story matters. Your safety matters. You matter.
Cecilia Crawford-Faulkner, Murphy
The writer is executive director of Reach of Cherokee & Graham Counties. Call the direct line, 828-237-2454; crisis number, 828-837-8064; main office, 828-837-9631; school advocate, 828-237-2529; or visit ReachofCherokeeCounty.org.