Reece Gardner: Success can be found here at home

Sometimes many of us feel that success stories come mostly from areas far away from where we live, but that is really not the case. For example, on my television show this week I have several guests who are highly accomplished and who originate their accomplishments right here in our part of the world.

Let's highlight them:

PAUL SUGG, President of East Point Prosthetics & Orthotics. Paul's company creates printed prosthetics, and he has a team this week in Africa delivering printed legs that were made in KINSTON.

ZAC HOLCOMB, Co-Founder of Additive America, relocated here from Columbus, Ohio, where he was involved in 3D Printing in the Aeronautic Industry. He and his brother Grant recently bought the old Parrott Feed Store building in Kinston, and exciting things are happening.

JAMES JARVIS, Executive Director of the American Red Cross for a large segment of Eastern North Carolina, including Lenoir and surrounding counties, helping thousands of people in various ways;

JUSTIN SMITH, owner and operator of Edwards Funeral Home, also serves in other capacities, such as Chairman of the Executive Board at Pitt CC Alumni Association, leader in his church, and a member of GIDEONS International;

JIMBO WHITE, Helping people to think positive, and engaging in various outdoor activities, such as surfing, snowboarding, kayaking, and many others;

MATTHEW YOUNG, Historic Site Manager and leader of CSS Neuse Programs such as the CSS Neuse Civil War Center, a Naval War Museum, showcasing the State's largest historic artifact and state of the art exhibits;

JANE HANRAHAN, Interim Director of UNC Lenoir Health Volunteer Services,

FRAN DICKERSON, Member and longtime promoter of Lights of Love. This Program, sponsored by UNC Lenoir Health Care Volunteers, has remained cherished for over 30 years, providing a way to memorialize or honor loved ones while supporting better health outcomes for our community. Folks, these are just a tiny part of the multitudes of people in our area who work diligently and tirelessly on a regular basis to make life better for others. YOU are probably one of them. THANK YOU!

Now to close with some humorous and curious signs seen in various parts of the country: (1) Would the person who took the stepladder yesterday please return it, or further steps will be taken; (2) Sign on a bathroom door: "Toilet out of order. Please use the floor below." (3) Note in a Health Food store window: "Closed due to illness." (4) On a repair shop door: "We can repair anything. (Please knock hard on the door. The bell doesn't work)." (5) Notice in a farmer's field: The farmer allows walkers to cross the field for free, but the bull charges!

HAVE A WONDROUS DAY!