Less than 24 hours after an official ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony was held at the new $17.4 million Legacy Soccer Park in Forest City, young athletes gathered early Saturday morning to begin playing soccer and making memories to last a lifetime.

Jubilation, excitement and plenty of thankfulness were expressed during the ceremony led by Jill Miracle, RHI Legacy Foundation Executive Director.

Walker Kirkpatrick was released from prison about two weeks ago. Determined to change his life for the better, Kirkpatrick turned to U & I Enrichment & Recovery Center in Forest City. Kirkpatrick, according to board member and volunteer Leslie Smith, is precisely the type of individual the organization is seeking to help.

On March 7 Rutherfordton's new 50-acre disc golf course and outdoor recreation park, Norris Park, celebrated a grand opening attended by more than 100 people. The park, located on Leroy Mull Drive near Rutherford Regional Hospital, is on the property of the former Rutherfordton Golf Course.

Like any mom, I know I may be a little biased. But this isn't just my story to tell. It's one that has been told in school hallways, on football fields, in wrestling rooms, and now on stages and platforms far beyond our county lines.

This is a hometown story.