Around Burke for Aug. 9

Applications are now being accepted for free school backpacks. The Tools for School program is made possible by Burke County Public Schools, Chartwells K12, and Burke County United Way. Any K-12 students attending school in Burke County may apply. Applications can be found online at bcuw.org/backpacks.

Glen Alpine continues to raise funds to expand its veterans memorial at the entrance into downtown. Funds will help purchase and install a Battlefield Cross, which is a monument featuring a rifle pointed downward with a helmet perched on the stock and a pair of soldier boots at the base. Other wanted improvements are brick pavers to replace the worn mulch currently at the site. Donations are being collected by the Ruritan Club and can be mailed to the Rev. John Terry, P.O. Box 203, Glen Alpine, NC, 28628 Attention: GA Veteran Memorial Fund.

The Historic Burke County Courthouse has new hours open to the public: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and closed Friday-Sunday, unless tours are scheduled. The courthouse is closed all Burke County holidays. To schedule a tour of any Historic Burke property, call 828-437-4104.

Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church will be having a Rent-A-Table Yard Sale and Breakfast (or breakfast items) on Saturday, Aug. 16, from 7-11 a.m. Call Mary Lou at 828-443-5569 to rent a table for $10 (outside) or $5 (inside).

The Opioid Advisory Committee (OAC) will hold a special meeting at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 110 N. Green St. Door E, in Morganton. The committee will hear presentations from selected providers who submitted proposals that support Phase I initiatives. Anyone needing accommodations or additional information should contact the County Manager’s office at 828-764-9350.

The History Museum of Burke County is looking for volunteers: Docents, indoor maintenance, and outdoor maintenance are just a few of the ways you can help. More information and a volunteer application can be found online at www.thehistorymuseumofburke.org/volunteers.

Religious leaders are cordially invited to a complimentary breakfast on Aug. 14 at 8 a.m. to learn about the One More One Less Project, founded by Jeff and Mandy Marburger. Their faith-led mission supports foster care, adoption, and community outreach, offering powerful ways for congregations to make a meaningful impact. The breakfast will be held in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 110 N. Green Street in Morganton. The event is free; however, registration is required by Aug. 10 at www.burkenc.org or by calling 828-764-9354.

Burke County School Board Chairwoman Tiana Beachler will be the featured speaker on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Coffee & Conversation, hosted by the Burke County Chamber of Commerce. Attendees will hear remarks from the chairwoman, followed by Q&A. The event will take place at BCPS Olive Hill Room, 509 W. Concord St. Registration is $15 for chamber members, $25 for non-chamber members. Call 828-437-3021 for more information.

The Freedom Class of 1980 is having its 45th class reunion on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Morganton Elks Lodge, 500 Golf Course Road, Morganton. Tickets are $45 per person or $80 per couple, with payment due by Sept. 1. A meetup on Friday, Sept. 19, is being planned, with the location still to be determined. For more information, email fhsgrad1980@gmail.com.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 1 to 6 p.m. at North Morganton Methodist Church, located at 990 Sanford Drive in Morganton. To make an appointment or for more information, call 1-800-733-2767.