Before NASCAR had legends, it had pioneers, and few loom larger than Herb Thomas of Olivia, North Carolina. A farmer and sawmill worker turned racing icon, Thomas and his Fabulous Hudson Hornet dominated the early years of the sport, winning more races than any other driver in the first half of the 1950s and claiming back-to-back championships in 1951 and 1953. His career earned him a spot in the NASCAR Hall of Fame and a place among the sport’s 50 Greatest Drivers. This June marks the anniversary of his very first race, run on June 19th, 1949, making it the perfect month to stop and take in this mural by artist Scott Nurkin honoring the Lee County legend.

As a creative hub in Downtown Sanford, Oxide Gallery of Fine Arts offers a space where artists and art lovers can come together. With a variety of local artwork on display, from paintings to sculptures, the gallery celebrates the talent and passion within the local community. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious about the local scene, Oxide Gallery provides an engaging way to explore, connect, and be inspired by the arts.

Having studied and obtained degrees in both Dance and Education, Suzanne has nurtured young dancers in the basement of the “old Belk building in downtown Sanford since 1995. As owner and instructor of the Sanford School of Classical Ballet, she has shepherded the school through many achievements which will soon include the 30th anniversary of the Spring Student Performance at the Mann Center of NC and the 25th anniversary of the school’s inaugural performance of The Nutcracker. With both of Suzanne’s daughters as alumnae and her eldest grandson now in her pre-ballet class, the Sanford School of Classical Ballet is a true family legacy worth experiencing.