Over 100 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony Saturday, Dec. 3 for the Polk County Law Enforcement Center, expected to begin construction soon just outside Columbus. Speakers included Polk County Commissioner Ted Owens, Polk County Sheriff Donald Hill, Polk County Manager Marche Pittman, Polk County Commissioner Chair Michael Gage and guest speaker David Guice, Commissioner of the N.C. Division of Adult Corrections and Juvenile Justice. The Polk County Middle School Band played, Reagan Waddell sang the National Anthem, veteran Johnny Taylor led the Pledge of Allegiance and the Polk County Memorial Honor Guard performed the posting of colors. Pictured from left are: Guice, Polk County Commissioner Ray Gasperson, Hill, Polk County Commissioner Keith Holbert, Owens, Pittman, Gage and Polk County Attorney Jana Berg breaking ground in front of the law enforcement center site. More photos of the ceremony are on page 6. (photos by Leah Justice)