Ricky Wayne Reitzel
Ricky Wayne Reitzel, 78, of Taylorsville, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Caldwell Memorial Hospital. Ricky was born on April 23, 1947, in Catawba County, the son of the late Guy Odell Reitzel and Margaret Arndt Reitzel. Ricky enjoyed eating and the fellowship with the staff of the Mobile Café. Those left to…
Read MoreJerree Dalton McLain
Jerree Dalton McLain, born September 19, 1936, in Alexander County, peacefully departed this life on October 5, 2025, at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Iredell County. Jerree’s legacy is one of dedication, warmth, and a deep love for family and community. Jerree proudly served his country in the United States Army, which included a tour of…
Read MoreFreda Viona Ollis Childress
Freda Viona Ollis Childress, born on June 7, 1967, in Caldwell County, to the late Edward Ray Ollis and Lois Jackson Cape, passed away peacefully at her home in Alexander County on October 5, 2025. Freda is survived by her husband of 42 years, Troy Edward Childress; son, Dusttin Elijah Childress; and siblings, Danny Ray…
Read MoreWilliam “Bill” Randlett
William “Bill” Randlett, 84, a devoted family man, decorated veteran, and pillar of the Hiddenite community, passed away on October 4, 2025, at Valley Nursing Center following a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and love. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Chris Randlett, whom he lovingly cared for…
Read MoreVaughn Paul “VP” Mitchell II
Vaughn Paul “VP” Mitchell II, 58, of Claremont, arrived at the gates of heaven on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Catawba Memorial Hospital. He was the widower of Annette Mitchell; they shared 30 amazing years before she passed. Vaughn was born on March 2, 1967, in Iredell County, the son of the late Linda Levell…
Read MoreMan arrested for setting two fires
On October 2, 2025, at approximately 7:59 AM, Alexander County 911 received a report of a fire at 610 Ruritan Park Road in Stony Point. Due to evidence suggesting the fire had been intentionally set, the Alexander County Fire Marshal requested the assistance of the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to the scene…
Read MoreHiddenite Celebration held September 27
By ANGELA FARR KING The fourth Saturday in September is typically a busy festive day in the small community of Hiddenite. It is designated each year as the day for the annual Hiddenite Celebration of the Arts and it is a time for this community to come together and celebrate their rich heritage. This was…
Read MoreTeacher receives $50,000 Harbor Freight award
Scottie Cook, Ag Mechanics teacher at Alexander Central High School, was presented a rolling tool chest this week and a $50,000 award ($35,000 to ACHS and $15,000 to Cook) as one of 25 teachers honored across the United States in the Tools For Schools Prize For Teaching Excellence. Cook, the only NC teacher chosen this…
Read MoreAlexander County changing to new eCourts system
Courts in Alexander County will undergo a historic transformation with the implementation of eCourts in October 2025. The official “go live” date is October 13, 2025. Residents should anticipate limited court services during the transition period as the Clerk of Superior Court’s office prepares for this major technological upgrade. • Beginning October 1, 2025, the…
Read MoreVehicle chase spans 3 counties
A Catawba County man faces multiple charges after leading officers on a chase across three counties. On Tuesday, September 30, at approximately 10:30 p.m., members of the NC State Highway Patrol were conducting a license checkpoint on NC 16 near Shell Hollar Road, according to Master Trooper Christopher M. Casey. A 2015 Chevrolet Malibu approached…
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