Moving, emotional and reminiscent describe the Burke County Memorial Service at the Foothills Higher Education Conference Center in Morganton on Monday. More than 200 veterans and guests turned out for the annual event which memorialized military members who fought, bled and died throughout our Country's history to protect our freedoms and to assuse that no force on earth will those freedoms from us....Keynote speaker was retired 1st Sgt.Wayne Rodgers, who called upon those present to look to the past and the future and revere our freedom and pay homage to those who sacrificed their all to protect our freedom. He pointed to those who valued life, but were willing to give their own life in defense of their country. The video and song titled "Angel Flight"was shown as a moving reminder of those who have fallen in battle. Angel Flight is the plane that transports the bodies of fallen heroes back home for burial. The service also featured a POW-MIA Recognition, explaining the empty chair, the tablecloth, a rose, red ribbon, candle, and Sam Tate. There was a Quilt of Valor Presentation, the laying of the memorial wreath, the playing of taps and the retiring of colors. Coordinating the event were Burke County Senior Services, Table Rock Detachment 1197 of the Marines Corps League and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scout Troop 197 and Pack 219 of Glen Alpine.

The 2016 Caldwell County Excellence in Education Award Winners were announced Thursday at a program and reception sponsored in part by the Education Foundation Inc. of Caldwell County. This year's winners include:
Teacher of the Year - Jennifer Jurney, Granite Falls Elementary
Rookie Teacher of the Year - Matthew Ross, Gamewell Middle
Principal of the Year - Chad Smith, Happy Valley School
Assistant Principal of the Tear - Julie Hall, South Caldwell High
Associate of the Year - Laura Starnes, Dudley Shoals Elementary
Instructional Assistant of the Year - George Wilson, William Lenoir Middle
Instructional/Student Support Employee - Yvonne Smith, West Lenoir Elementary/Gamewell Middle
Bus Driver of the Year - Jerry Henthorne, Hibriten High
Teacher of the Year Jennifer Jurney and Chad Smith, Principal of the Year, will represent the Caldwell County Schools in the statewide programs recognizing outstanding educators and administrators.