Bill’s Cabinet Shop on Jackson Grove Road in the Columbus Township burned to the ground on Monday, Jan. 1., with the smoke being seen miles away most of the day.

Fire departments from Columbus, Landrum, Mill Spring, Green Creek and New Prospect responded, along with the Polk County EMS and Landrum Rescue. The Tryon Fire Department served as standby for other departments. Columbus Fire Chief Tony Priester said the emergency call was made at 10:52 a.m. at 1505 Jackson Grove Road. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. (Photo by Tony Priester)