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Thursday, January 22, 2015

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Your Source for LOCAL NEWS! Since 1935 Volume 80 • Issue 3

Serving Belmont • Crame Cramerton t • LLowell • McAdenville • Mount Holly • Stanley

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Mount Holly to purchase two new fire engines

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

By the end of 2015, the City of Mount Holly will have two brand spanking new fire trucks to replace weary ones in its current fleet.

The two trucks will cost around $950,000. The new trucks will be Smeal brand pumpers sold by Atlantic Coast Fire Trucks. They will be built and delivered before the end of this year.

One truck will run out of the Catawba Heights station and the other from Headquarters station. Two older trucks, a 1991 Freightliner and 1989 Ford will be sold.

The city council made the bold move to approve the purchase of the trucks at its meeting last week. The

subject of fire truck replacement in Mount Holly has been talked about for quite a while and the council finally pulled the trigger on the purchase.

Just before the vote, councilman Jason Gowen recalled an incident where mechanical failure on one of the old trucks could have injured firemen.

“We are putting their lives at risk,” he said. “We need to purchase the new trucks sooner rather than later. Let’s take care of them so they can take care of us.”

Mount Holly mayor Bryan Hough swore in the city’s newest firefighter C.J. Beheler at last week’s council meeting.

Interim fire chief Ryan Baker C.J.’s parents Tim and Tina were on hand for the ceremony. gave the council a presentation layPhoto by Alan Hodge

See FIRE ENGINES page 2

New restaurant coming to Tailrace Marina

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

A new and exciting eatery at Tailrace Marina on the Catawba River took a step forward last week with approval by the Mount Holly city council of a request by developer Ben Arnold to rezone three tracts of property on the site.

The rezoning basically allows Arnold to move the location of the restaurant to a better piece of ground there.

“This was a technically challenging site regarding the soil conditions,” said planning director Greg Beal.

The restaurant project has had a series of ups and downs.

Arnold was set to break ground on the building but his restauranteur fell ill. Added to that was the fact that the dirt where he had originally wanted it erected would likely have been unable to support

Belmont resident is fed up with jet noise

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

This conceptual view shows how the proposed waterfront restaurant at Tailrace Marina on the Catawba River near Mount Holly could look. The Mount Holly city council approved a rezoning request last week that will move the project forward.

Contributed Art the weight the structure as originally planned.

Arnold had to scale back the size of the building. It was originally set for 7,400 sq. ft. The new plan calls for 4,000 sq. ft. with a 1,219 sq.

ft covered dining deck.

In addition to the restaurant, the rezoning approval will also make it possible for Arnold to make some changes to the residential aspect of his See RESTAURANT page 2

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's another plane and another plane and another plane etc. etc.

That's the way David Moore of North Belmont says he's been feeling for quite a while now due to air traffic from Charlotte-Douglas International Airport coming over his home at all hours of the night and day making quiet time in his yard or getting sleep all but impossible.

“When I moved here there was no noise from the jets,” he said. “But something changed and now I have it all the time. I'm extremely angry.”

According to Moore, the change came on December 13, 2014 when he feels the air traffic pattern in and out of the airport were altered in such a way as to bring more jets over the Belmont/Mount Holly area and less over more affluent areas in Mecklenburg County.

The BannerNews ran a story on the subject of airport noise back in July 2014 and things have not eased up.

Having had his fill of the racket, Moore began doing research on the local air traffic situation and procured a color map that showed Charlotte-Douglas takeoffs and landings on just one day. On the map, the path each jet took on departure is tracked by a green line. Landings are noted by a red line. The map shows a solid “river” of takeoffs heading straight over Belmont and Mount Holly.

Moore has been after the government to provide him with access to the database that plots takeoffs and landings over a longer period. He thinks that information might shed light on if, when, or how air traffic patterns were shifted to Gaston County. So far he's had no luck getting access to the files.

See AIRPORT page 2

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Page 2

Thursday, January 22, 2015

FIRE ENGINES

From page 1 ing out the state of the Mount Holly fire en- results in the city’s outstanding financial status, gine scene. as evidenced in our financial audits. I’m always Facts and figures Baker made available happy to see such projects be addressed propshowed the current fleet to be ...tired. erly due to the work of others.”

The main engine at Headquarters Station By signing the contract for the two trucks 34 has over 100,000 miles on its chassis, needs before January 15, Mount Holly got a $14,652 a transmission rebuild, and is 13 years old. price break on each one as well as a $10,512 Over the last 4 ½ years the city has spent over discount for buying two at once, and a $17,928 $71,000 on maintenance of that truck. The en- per truck bonus as a return customer. gine at Catawba Heights Station 33 is 16 years Baker was pleased with the council decision. old with 76,000 miles. Parts are hard to get for “These will be state of the art trucks and will it as well and the body/frame has cracks. Since last a long time,” he said.

2010 the city spent $58,491 repairing it.

The new trucks will have a two year bumper to bumper warranty, and a 30 year sub-frame warranty.

The city will finance the bill for the trucks.

“The financing plan for the two fire trucks will involve the city borrowing the money from a bank,” said city manager Danny Jackson. “This process will result in making loan payments over a specified period of time to pay off the debt. This too is a way to purchase the trucks and not burden the city’s budget and current bank account. The City of Mount Holly is fortunate to have such an excellent credit rating to obtain a Mount Holly's interim fire chief Ryan Baker laid out a solid loan at a really low interest rate. case at last week's city council meeting for the need to purThe City is also fortunate to have chase two new fire trucks. The council acted boldly on Bakemployees that are good stewards er's request and approved the purchase. of their respective budgets, which Photo by Alan Hodge

Cramerton officials talk over plans for coming year

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Town of Cramerton officials gathered last Wednesday for an all-day confabulation to discuss the municipality's goals for FY2015-2016.

The meeting included presentations from department heads including Parks and Recreation Director Cam Carpenter, Police Chief Greg Ratchford, Fire Chief Lance Foulk, Public Works Director Rodney Baker.

Carpenter presented information on Goat Island Park, the C.B. Huss Recreation Center, and public/ private partnerships. Ratchford discussed police vehicle purchases and future needs of his department.

Foulk filled folks in on fire apparatus acquisition, future personnel needs, and the site of a future fire department. Baker talked about a paving schedule, and contracting for solid waste service.

Other Cramerton officials that gave presentations at the planning session included Joel Lineberger who talked about capital needs, Wilene Cunningham who discussed finance and administration.

Kevin Krouse of the Planning Department gave a presentation on the Wilkinson Blvd. commercial study, NCDOT projects, and other future development.

Following lunch, the officials heard a presentation from Metrocology founder Demetri Baches on the town center strategic plan. This was followed by a closed session with Centralina Council of Governments executive director Jim Prosser to talk about the search process for a new town manager to replace Michael Peoples who resigned effective January 30 to take a job with the City of Gastonia.

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The Mount Holly fire department station in Catawba Heights will get one of the new engines that the city purchased. It will replace this machine seen with firemen Jason Black and Chip Walker.

Photo by Alan Hodge

AIRPORT

From page 1 “The airport is discussing allowing me to say it’s the FAA’s authority. Because of the see the data,” Moore said. “I even wrote to the constant low flights over my house I am worWhite House Open Government team asking ried about sleep disturbance, tension caused it be put online.” by this, expense to have my house insulated Moore has also filed complaints on the and windows replaced, property value dropairport's website where folks can tender comments on the noise situation. No luck there ping while taxes stay the same, and difficulty either. The only followup Moore says he in selling should I decide to and getting a fair got was a canned response saying basically price.” “tough luck”.

One way Moore is fighting back is with “It's a sinkhole,” Moore said of the com- a petition he's posted on www.MoveOn.org plaint hotline. titled “Stop CLT Airport Noise Dumping”.

Like Moore, Calvin McGuirt lives about About 20 folks have signed so far. For those nine nautical miles from the airport and he too who care to give it a shot, the airport's website has become irritated with the jet traffic noise.

“Air traffic starts for me at 5:30 AM with also has a link to the noise complaint page at arrivals and when busy a plane fly’s directly http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/Airport/ over my house at treetop level at 9 miles out AboutCLT/Pages/Noise%20Program.aspx. every 26 seconds,” said McGuirt. “About “It's only going to get worse,” Moore said 8:00 PM it changes to departures again right of the jet sounds. “People need to rise up and over my house and sometimes continues till do something.”

2:00AM. I have placed numerous complaints on the airport noise reporting web site.

And I got numerous canned curt letters back saying that nothing can be done. They do not take any of this seriously and do not give complaints any credence.

When I talk to the FAA they say it's Charlotte airport's authority and when I talk to the airport authority they David Moore of North Belmont points to his home on a map showing one day's worth of takeoffs (green) and departures (red) from Charlotte Douglas airport.

Photo by Alan Hodge

RESTAURANT

From page 1

project. The plan is to split several of the three bedroom units to four, two bedroom ones.

This would up the number of residential units from 124 to 128.

So far, Arnold has sunk $2.5 million in the project including the land cost and $150,000 in system development fees that included a traffic impact study and a market analysis.

Arnold says with last week's zoning OK he can get going- again, with the restaurant opening for business in a year or so.

“We are looking forward to a great project,” he said.

In other business, the council also approved a contract with Tarpon Construction, Inc. to pave the Beaty Road/Ferstl Avenue intersection for $273,471- funded by the Powell Bill. The price includes a ten percent contingency fee in case of any unforeseen cost overruns. The precontingency, base bid from Tarpon was $248,610.

Other base bids included $251,500 from Bell Construction, $287,550 from United Construction, $294,000 from Blythe Development, $331,000 from Sealand Contractors, $337,332, from John E. Jenkins, and $674,000 from Blythe Construction.

Work on the paving is set to begin in spring and should take 80 days to complete.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Page 3

Mount Holly hires consulting firm to study downtown retail scene

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

The Mount Holly city council took a step recently to bring more retail business to the local scene by approving a scope of services agreement with Fort Worth, Texas-based Buxton Co. to study the situation and offer suggestions and solutions for that purpose.

“This is one of the most innovative ideas I've seen,” councilman Jason Gowen said of the move. “It is important to the city's economic development.”

According to the deal that the council approved, in the first year of the three-year arrangement Buxton will receive $30,000 initially and $20,000 within 90 days for their work.

“This is a forward thinking and a great move by our city council to work with Buxton and they should be commended for taking this step to ensure positive growth in Mount Holly in our near future,” said Mount Holly Community Development Foundation board chair Wendy Foster.

The scope of services that Buxton will provide for Mount Holly is varied and designed to get the pulse of the local business landscape.

Foster explained.

“Buxton group is an analytics company that looks at the spending habits of a town's citizens and provides information not only about their spending habits but where they buy their personal and household items,” she said. “This will show what percent of business leakage the city has and will be very valuable tool for the city to seek desirable businesses. Even our businesses presently in Mount Holly will benefit, as the report will help them make wiser business decisions, based on concrete evidence, of what our people in our city actually purchase.

Founded in 1994, Buxton has plenty of experience and clout.

Since last year, the firm has evaluated 80,000 sites nationally that resulted in 7,500 new stores opening across the country. The city of Kingsport, Tennesssee hired Buxton in 2009 to evaluate its retail By hiring the Buxton Co. to research and report on local shopping and other retail habits the City of Mount Holly hopes situation and the result was a $1.1 to bring more businesses and folks to the downtown section and other local areas. million boost in sales tax receipts Photo by Alan Hodge and attraction of new retailers.

A REAL ESTATE MOMENT …. With Steve Duncan After a 20+ year career in real estate with Asheville’s premier real estate firm, Steve Duncan has returned to his hometown, Belmont.

Steve has been consistently ranked among the top 10% of real estate agents in performance and looks forward to offering his experience, energy, creativity and enthusiasm to those needing professional real estate services in the Belmont/Mt. Holly Gaston County markets.

Steve will be providing insights to questions that are often asked by those considering selling or buying .

“Is Winter a good time to be on the market?”

My Experience over these last two decades shows there are a few basic factors in deciding to sell during the winter. The first is: •Are you ready to sell your property? Simply stated, I have found the best time to be on the market is when you have decided to sell. We never know who is looking for property at any particular time so if you are not listed with an agent who offers the broadest range of marketing programs, you may miss that buyer who happens to be looking right then.

So … the best time to be on the market is when you are ready to sell!

• Winter is a great time to consider being on the market. It is true properties are not as frequently sold from November (or around Thanksgiving) until mid to late April, but …

• There is less competition on the market. Fewer sellers are on the market and you can stand out among the crowd as the field of properties on the market is often at the lowest during the year.

“ While others Hibernate … You can Sell and Celebrate!”

•How often have you heard a buyer is “thinking about buying”? Don’t you just hate that when you are trying to sell your property … you work hard, vacuum, dust, put the cookies on the stove … and … after all your work, the buyer is 2 hours late, walks around the entire property and leaves in less than 5 minutes. Then the buyer offers feedback that“they’re just starting to look and are only thinking about buying.” I bet the buyer probably has not been pre-qualified and for sure, not pre-approved.

• “Tire Kickers” seldom venture out and look at properties during the holidays or the cold months. My experience has been that the most serious buyers, those that need to buy or have an immediate need to purchase are looking at what is for sale in the market.

“Your efforts to put on your best presentation are most appreciated and most valuable!”

From my professional experience, the holidays and winter months provide sellers one of their best opportunities to stand out among the competition. In a winter market with less competition and more appreciative buyers, sellers who have made their decision to sell have some nice advantages during the winter!

One more thought for sellers … and that is to be …. “Properly Priced” More on that in my next issue.

STEVE DUNCAN - THE ALLEN TATE COMPANY Broker/Associate, CRS-GRI, CNHS, SFR, ALHS (828) 777-5718 Cell/Direct • Steve.Duncan@allentate.com

Progress continues on the Chronicle Mill project in Belmont. Last week saw two dilapidated cottages on the mill property demolished. Workers also made major repairs to the mill roof.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Mt Holly City Council retreat agenda

The Mount Holly City Council retreat will be held on Thursday, January 29 and Friday, January 30, 2015. The location is the City Council Chambers at the Mount Holly Municipal Complex.

The start time is 9:00a.m. The subjects will include an All Inclusive Park, Long Range Parks & Recreation Plan, Expansion of the Tuckaseege Community Center (a.k.a. Tuck Center), Public Works Facility, North Area Fire Station, Waste Water Treatment Project, Greenway Project Update, Economic Development Plan, Debt Structure, City Fee Schedule, Real Estate Update, Special Events and Centralina Council of Governments Membership.

FY 2014 Annual Reports are now available The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties FY 2014 Annual Reports are now available.

Pick up locations are The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties office, The Gaston County Chamber of Commerce, The Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce and The Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce.

Page 4

â– MEDITATIONS

The greatest Commandment The greatest commandment followers of Jesus Christ are given to love God and love neighbor as thyself. The even bigger challenge is understanding that sometimes our neighbor just might also be our greatest enemy. Is there a way to avoid loving our enemy?

How can I love the person who undermines my position as their superior? How can I love the racist?

How can I love the driver while intoxicated got behind the wheel and took the life of my son? I use to live by a motto of “justifiable dislike.� This motto allowed me permission to dislike anyone who did not Rev. Angela Pleasants like me in return.

It gave me the self- First United righteous indignation to believe they Methodist Church, were not deserving of my time since Mount Holly they did not know how to love properly. I would hold fast to scriptures saying, “God will repay for vengeance belongs to him.� One day while reading the book of Jonah my eyes were opened to my sin and lack of love. Jonah was called to go warn Nineveh, the enemy to the Israelites that because of their evil God’s wrath will come upon them. After running from God and being swallowed by a fish where he stayed three days and nights, Jonah relented and went to Nineveh. Jonah gave the warning and the people repented, but instead of God’s wrath God showed mercy and steadfast love. “But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. “And he prayed to the Lord and said, ‘O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster.� Jonah 4:1-2 ESV. The wayward people of Nineveh lined their hearts with the Lord while Jonah in his prejudice and displeasure moved further away from God. God’s love is limitless not just for the righteous but also for the unrighteous. “And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous but sinners.’� Mark 2:17 ESV. The same compassion God gave me a sinner is the same compassion he extends to all yes even my enemies. Pray for your enemies that they too might receive the transformative grace of God. Who knows one day through this love they may become a great friend.

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Chris Cook to perform in the newly renovated courthouse The Gaston County Museum will be hosting a concert series located in the newly renovated Gaston County Historic Courthouse in Dallas. The series will focus on Americana style music being performed by some of the best artist in the region.

The first show will feature Chris Cook, Friday, January 23 from 7-9pm. The event is free.

Growing up in Belmont, Chris Cook was surrounded by music from day one. As a singer-songwriter and multidimensional musician, he knows what he likes and what suits his needs. While comfortable playing country or rock, Chris also has a fondness for a classic R&B groove, the catchy beat of Pop, or the “from-thegut soulfulness� of the Blues.

The first thing you’ll notice is that voice. Chris Cook is a singer’s singer with a delivery that’s pure and natural, unforced but expressive, relaxed but full of inner fire. Averaging 200 dates a year, the hard-working Cook continues

Thursday, January 22, 2015

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Chris Cook to tour regionally and internationally showcasing strong vocals, seasoned musicianship, a prolific writing ability and a performance of a true musical leader and entertainer.

Seating for the concert is first come, first served and the doors will open at 6:30pm. For additional information about this program, please contact Jason Luker, Programs Coordinator, at 704-922-7681 ex 105 or at Jason.Luker@gastongov.com.

Belmont seeks board members

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opy. The Sustainability Board, which consists of Belmont residents, ZZZ MXVWDSLQFK FRP URDVW will promote environmental protection through an annual Arbor %URXJKW WR \RX E\ $PHULFDQ +RPHWRZQ 0HGLD Day/Earth Day celebration and various educational events throughout the year.

The Sustainability Board also promotes urban forestry by providing information to residents about the importance of trees and Gaston County Senior Center will be hosting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Souperâ&#x20AC;? of planting the right tree in the right location. It has completed an Senior Games Kick Off on February 6, from 11am-until. All inventory of Belmont's street trees and has worked with the City Senior Citizens 50 and over are invited to come out and learn Council and Planning and Zoning Board on revisions to Belmont's how to participate in Senior Games at the local level. We will tree ordinance. discuss how to register, talk about new events and also have cookies and hot soup.For more information please contact Gaston County Senior Center at 704-922-2170 or visit the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.gastongov.com. Gaston County strives to make its programs, services, and activities accessible to all. If you will require an accommodation we request that you contact The Tuesday Afternoon Book Club met on Tuesday, Jan. our office at least 5 days before the event.

13, at the home of Mrs. Wilma Vargas, hostess for the meeting. Ten members were present with Agnes Horsley and Kitty Wilson not able to attend. This was the annual business meeting and was conducted by Emily Smith, President. As members Your Local News Source arrived, they paid their annual dues to Clenda Lineberger, Treasurer. Those members planning to attend the annual Book and Since 1935 Authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luncheon at Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University in March also paid for that event. The new books for the year were introduced as members shared briefly how they happened to select their book and told just a little about it. Other items of business included the reading of the minutes of the previous meeting, the announcement of the February meeting which will be hosted by Eva Ann Via and will probably be held at the Belmont Historical Society. Eva Ann also shared with the group the 1998 book Submit your announcements by email to list as was posted in a book that belonged to Mildred Ford, a long-standing member of the group. alan.bannernews@gmail.com Members were invited to the dining table where they enjoyed cake and coffee. They especially enjoyed seeing the For more information call 704-825-0580 beautiful Christmas decorations which were still up in the Vargas home.

All submissions subject to editor's approval.

Mrs. Wilma Vargas

Souper Senior games set

Tuesday Afternoon Book Club meets

We welcome your community news, items of interest, events, happenings and local photos.

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Thursday, January 22, 2015

Page 5

■ CRIMES

Supreme Court upholds conviction in Belmont woman's death Anne M. Tompkins, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, announced last week that the United States Supreme Court affirmed the conviction of Larry Whitfield, a Charlotte man involved in the 2008 attempted robbery of a credit union in Gastonia, N.C. On November 23, 2009, following a six-day trial, a federal jury convicted Whitfield of attempted robbery of the credit union, conspiracy to possess, carry and use firearms during the attempted credit union robbery, possessing, carrying and using firearms during the attempted credit union robbery and forcing a victim to accompany him while avoiding and attempting to avoid arrest for these offenses, resulting in the death of the victim Mary Parnell of Belmont.

According to court records, Whitfield forced Parnell, who died of a heart attack, to accompany him to another room inside her home while he was fleeing from police after the failed bank robbery. In a unanimous opinion, the U.S. Supreme Court found that Whitfield’s actions violated 18 U.S.C. Section 2113(e) (“forced accompaniment statute”), which provides for a sentence ranging from ten years up to life in prison for anyone who “forces any person to accompany him” in the course of committing or fleeing a bank robbery.

According to court records and evidence presented at Whitfield’s trial: On September 26, 2008, Whitfield and his co-defendant, Quanterrious McCoy, armed with a loaded .357 revolver and an assault rifle, attempted to rob the Fort Financial Credit Union in Gastonia. Court records show that the two robbers fled the scene, switched get-away cars, and were heading toward Charlotte when spotted by law enforcement officers. Officers were in pursuit when the defendants’ vehicle hit another

car and became disabled on the shoulder of an I-85 exit ramp.

After crashing, the robbers grabbed their firearms and fled toward a residential neighborhood in the Belmont area, where they got rid of their guns and split up.

Whitfield entered the home of a victim and threatened her with a knife as she was coming into the house. The victim fled, and so did Whitfield.

Whitfield then entered the house of Parnell, a 79-yearold woman who was home alone.

Whitfield forced Parnell to move to another room inside her home while Whitfield called a friend for help escaping police.

Parnell Larry Whitfield suffered and died from a heart attack during the forced accompaniment.

On November 20, 2012, Judge Conrad re-sentenced Whitfield, after correcting an error in the original sentence, to 264 months in prison for the forced accompaniment conviction, to run concurrently with 240 months in prison for the attempted robbery and conspiracy to carry firearms conviction, and to run consecutively with 60 months of consecutive imprison-

ment for the carrying firearms conviction, for a total sentence of 27 years in prison.

The United States Supreme Court accepted the case for certiorari review last year to decide whether the forced accompaniment offense required proof of more than minimum movement on the part of the victim. According to the Supreme Court’s website, “the Court receives approximately 10,000 petitions for a writ of certiorari each year. . . . [and] grants and hears oral argument in about 75-80 cases.”

In the Supreme Court’s 9-0 opinion written by Justice Antonin Scalia, the Court noted that the forced accompaniment language of the statue has remained unchanged since Congress passed the statute after a series of bank robberies committed

by John Dillenger in the 1930s. The Court rejected Whitfield’s argument that the statute should be read to require a forced movement over more substantial distances than in Whitfield’s case, holding that “a bank robber ‘forces [a] person to accompany him, (for purposes of § 2113(e)), when he forces that person to go somewhere with him, even if the movement occurs entirely within a single building or over a short distance.

Defined in this manner, Whitfield forced [the victim] to ‘accompany him.’”

Whitfield’s conspirator, Quanterrious McCoy, pleaded guilty in May 2009 to attempted bank robbery and use and carry of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He was sentenced in February 2010 to 84 months in prison.

The FBI investigated the case. The federal prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. O’Malley and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Morris handled the federal prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Ray and William Miller handled the appellate portion of the case.

Stanley man changes tune Citizens' Police about home invasion Academy

Lincoln County Sheriff’s detectives are continuing their investigation into a home invasion at the residence of Robert G. Sholette II in Stanley on January 10, 2015.

According to police, Sholette said he drove to the Kangaroo station at Highways 16/73 in Denver around 12:45 a.m. Sunday morning to call 911 and report the incident.

He told detectives he had fallen

asleep in his residence on Starboard Lane, Stanley, when he was awakened shortly before midnight by a black male with dred-locks hitting him in the face with the butt of a shotgun.

The home had been entered through an unlocked door.

He also said that during that time four other black males were going through items in the bedroom and demanding to know where his phone, wallet

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Stolen in the break-in were firearms valued at $3,100, electronic equipment valued at $3,500, credit cards and about $1,000 in cash.

One of the credit cards was used before the owner could contact the bank to cancel it.

However, police now say it was learned that on the night of the incident Sholette made a number of telephone

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calls to internet websites that provide escort services. Investigators say the actions of the homeowner led to the home invasion. Possible charges are pending in the case.

The homeowner was interviewed at the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday, January 14, 2015, and admitted to contacting the escort services.

Major Crimes Unit Detective Lt. Tim Johnson said, “The neighborhood should feel safe and the incident that happened last weekend was due to the inappropriate actions of the homeowner.” He went on the say, “The Sheriff’s Office encourages homeowners to lock their doors, turn on alarm systems and protect their property.”

classes planned The Gastonia Police Dept. is accepting applications for the spring semester Citizens’ Police Academy that will run from March 10 to May 19.

The classes focus on law enforcement operations. It also gives participants an insight into police training and duties.

Classes meet from 6 to 8:30 p.m. one night a week for 11 weeks.

Training topics include K-9 unit, SWAT Team, crime scene investigations, patrol officer techniques, crime prevention programs and other aspects of the police department. Participants will ride along with a police officer for at least two hours during the program.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age, and be subject to a background check. There is no fee for the academy. All that is needed is a commitment to attend all classes.

Nine out of the 11 classes must be completed to be eligible for graduation. Space is limited to 20 participants.

Applications are available at the Gastonia Police Department, 200 E. Long Ave., online at www.GastoniaPD.org, and are being accepted until the class is full or the deadline of Feb. 20.

For more information, you may call Officer Amy Hawkins, 704-842-5117.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 6

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Sisk-Butler

■ OBITUARIES Kenneth “Ken” Perry Guin Edwin Thomas “Tom” Charlotte, NC- Ken- Thorpe, III neth “Ken” Perry Guin, age Belmont, NC- Edwin 88, died Thomas “Tom” Thorpe, III Wednespassed day, Januaway on ary 14, Monday, 2015 at January Charlotte 12, 2015 Health at Levine Care Cen& Dickson ter.

He Hospice was the son of the late George House at and Beulah VanPelt Guin, Southminster. A native of husband of 60 years to the Chelsea, MA, he was the son late Mary Ellen Underwood of the late Edwin Thomas Guin. He was also preceded Thorpe, II and Barbara Twitchin death by two brothers and ell Thorpe. three sisters.

Tom is survived by his Ken is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Gail daughter, Kay Joy; grandchil- Brown Thorpe of the home; dren, Melinda Joy, Brad Joy children, Jeremy Thorpe and and wife Brandi, all of Char- wife Kendra of Watertown, lotte.

MA, Kyle Thorpe of Belmont, The family received Kelly Williams and husband friends from 5 – 7 PM, Friday T.J. of Belmont; sisters, Diane at McLean Funeral Directors, Thorpe of WV and Mary Belmont. A graveside service McLeod of Gainesville, VA. was held at 2 PM, Saturday He was a veteran of the at Greenwood Cemetery with U.S. Air Force, a member of Rev. George Sherman offici- First Baptist Church and loved ating. volunteering at Belmont ComMemorials may be munity Organization. He was made to Shady Brook Bap- a lifelong employee of Eastern tist Church, 2940 Belmeade Airlines and US Airways.

Drive, Charlotte, NC 28214.

A service celebrating McLean Funeral Directors Tom’s life was held at 4 PM, of Belmont served the Guin Sunday at The Pointe Church family. with Pastor Ray Hardee officiating. The family received We are not of those who shrink friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memoriback and are destroyed, but als may be made to National of those who believe and are Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chasaved.

—Hebrews 10:39 pel Street, Suite 200 Newton, MA 02458.

Share condolences with the family by visiting www. mcleanfuneral.com and signing the guestbook. McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont served the Thorpe family.

and Tammy Young. 4 grandchildren, Braydan, Robert, Destanii and Scott. Great Aunt, Anne Beall. Her beloved pet, Harley, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family, Sarah Warren, Chris Warren Jeanila “Jenny” Adams and Nikki Lippard.

Weber Memorial services to celCharlotte- Jeanila “Jenny” ebrate Jenny’s life were held Adams Weber, 44, of Char- at 2:00 PM Saturday, January lotte died 17 at Benson Funeral Service’s suddenly Chapel with Rev. Ken Wilson on January officiating. Inurnment will be 8, 2015 at private. Visitation was one her resihour prior to the service. dence. Ms. Memorials may be made in W e b e r her memory to the family. was Born Benson Funeral Services in Charserved the family. lotte, NC on June 27, 1970 to Johnnie Walter Adams and the late Betty Gayle Ethel Jones Helton Stanley- Ethel Jones Adams. In addition to her mother she is also preceded Helton, 81, passed away in death by her Life Part- on Wednesday January 14, ner, Donald Ray Matthews, 2015. She was born in GasBrother, James Barnhill, Aunt ton County, daughter of the Jeanila Sue Washburn and late Calvin Boone Jones and also her Grandmother, Betty Kate Lowery Jones. She was Harwood. Jenny was a lov- preceded in death by her husing person who loved being band Rufus Helton. She was a outdoors. She will be sadly Homemaker and a seamstress.

She is survived by two missed by all her family and daughters Kathy Hefner and friends.

In addition to her father husband Mike of Denver and Jenny is survived by her chil- Susan Dunlap and husband dren, Nina Michelle Adams Ron of Charlotte; three grandand Kenneth David Weber. children Brian York and wife Step-Father, J.C. Adams. Brenda of Stanley, Jennifer Brothers, James Adams, Walker and husband Wes of Jr., Jonathan Barnhill and Mount Holly and Cindy DunTimmy Adams. Sisters, Crys- lap of Charlotte; six great tal Adams, Angel Cureton, grandchildren Montana and Kimberly Adams, Christine Ashley York, Jordan, Brandon Kelsey, Shirley Sherwood and Trenton Sherrill and Jona-

than Walker. Numerous brothers and sisters.

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Helton was held 12:30pm Saturday January 17, at Forest Lawn West Cemetery in Charlotte. The family received friends prior to the service from 11:00am-12:00pm Saturday at Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the Donor’s choice.

Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www. woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.

Funeral Home & Cremation Service We offer funeral packages and we honor existing pre-need funerals.

704-629-2255 www.siskbutler.com Eddie Pigg, Funeral Director

MHHS Class of 70 Reunion The 1970 class of Mt Holly High is having a 45th Reunion at Little Big Horn on Saturday, March 21. Graduates from 1967 thru 1972 are invited to join the celebration. Prepayment is required. Contact Gary Neely for details at 704-214-3780 or gmneely@bellsouth.net.

King's Daughters has openings in Stanley The King's Daughters Ministry has opportunities in Stanley.

Openings include Resident Advocates (paid and unpaid positions available). The main function of the Resident Advocate (RA) is to provide KDM personnel presence at the home where resident daughters live. We have four shifts available; morning shift, afternoon shift, dinner shift and overnight shift. RAs also serve as transportation providers and chaperones for appointments, outings, and events. Volunteers are needed 7 days a week at all hours. Volunteer a few times a week or as little as once per month.

Also, Penny Thrift store clerks. Penny Thrift clerks assist in many areas of the store operations to include greeting & assisting customers, tidying & stocking the shelves, pricing merchandise and running the cash register. Volunteers are needed Tuesday thru Saturday 9:00am – 4:00pm. Volunteer a few times a week or as little as once per month, usually in half day or whole day shifts.

To obtain a volunteer application, please contact the King's Daughters Ministry office at 704-263-4204 or info@kdmonline. org. Applications can also be obtained at The Penny Thrift Store, 532 Hwy 27 South, Stanley or call 704-263-8855. Mailing address is The King’s Daughters Ministry PO Box 476, Stanley, NC 28164 www.kdmonline.org.

Fellowship & Faith

Church Service Directory MT. HOLLY Bethel Baptist Church NC Highway 273 704-827-9846 Burge Memorial Methodist Church 312 W. Glendale Ave. 704-827-2726 Catawba Heights Church of God 122 Tomberlin Rd. 704-827-4225 Cbc-Memorial Apostolic 230 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-0968 Chapel Baptist Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-5526 Community Christian Fellowship 2560 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-5881 Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603 Family Worship Center 1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656 First Baptist Church-Mt. Holly 300 S. Main St. 704-827-2481 First Free Will Baptist Church 841 Noles Dr. 704-827-7461 First Presbyterian Church 133 S. Main St. 704-827-0521 First United Methodist Church 140 N. Main St. 704-827-4855

Goshen Free Will Baptist Church 1300 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-3076

Mt. Sinai Baptist Church 339 S. Hawthorne St. 704-827-4320

Grace Baptist Church 300 Westland Farm Rd. 704-827-8600

New Covenant United Methodist 14514 Lucian Riverbend Hwy. 704-827-4468

Harvest Time Church of God 707 Westland Farm Rd. 704-822-8033

New Providence Baptist Church 1104 Old NC 27 Hwy. 704-827-0822

Hickory Grove Baptist Church 3717 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-3939

North Main Baptist Church 1304 N. Main St. 704-827-6141

Jehovah’s Witnesses 1736 Kelly Rd. 704-263-0199 Lighthouse Full Gospel Church 530 N. Hawthorne St. 704-827-1442 Living Witness Ministries 541 Costner St. 704-827-0004 Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 110 S. Main St. 704-827-4751 Macedonia Baptist Church 1951 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-9224

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 110 S. Main St. • Mt. Holly • NC

Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954

Shiloh Ame Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826

Tuckaseegee Baptist Church 511 Tuckaseege Rd. 704-827-4301

Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly 826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999

Springfield Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-820-0193

Way of the Cross Baptist Church 238 Lanier Ave. 704-827-8111

Ridgeview Baptist Church 105 Pine Rd. 704-827-3856

St. Anthony of Padua Traditional Catholic Church 108 Horseshoe Bend Beach Rd. 704-827-8676

Wesley Chapel Holiness Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-1993

Second Baptist Church 740 Rankin Ave. 704-827-5181

St. Paul FHB Church 1529 Old Hwy 27 Rd. 704-827-5851

Westview Presbyterian Church 1020 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-2026

Employees of

Mt. Holly Church of God 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596 Mt. Holly Noles Baptist Church Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-2013 Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Page 7

The Mount Holly Community Development Foundation board held it’s first meeting of 2015 The 2015 Mount Holly Community Development Foundation board of directors held their first meeting last week.

After introductions, the board got right to work, discussing each committee of the MHCDF, its history and goals for 2015. Each director then chose a committee to serve on throughout 2015. The focus this year will continue to be: Funding the development and promotion of greenways, trails, and neighborhood connections, Promoting community image through beautification projects and signage, Promoting downtown Mount Holly as the business, cultural and social center of our region through events and downtown revitalization.

Serving this year: Executive Board: David Hamrick, Chair; Shannon Gowen, Vice Chair; Angela Autovino, Secretary; Donna Ledoux, Treasurer; Lauren Shoemaker, Past Chair.

Board of Directors: Tim Cleveland, Ben Edwards, Robbie Elting, Jefferson Fortner, John Haney, Carolyn Helms, Liz Jordan, Brooke Shepherd Lopez, Bob Mageau, Cindy Michael, Richard "Merc" Morris; Executive Director, Wendy MHCDF board members: From Left to Right: Front Row: Carolyn Helms, Brooke Shepherd Lopez, Cindy Michael, Donna Ledoux, Angela Autovino, Shannon Gowen, Jefferson Fortner, Tim Cleveland, David Hamrick, & John Haney. Back Row: Robbie Elting, Foster.

Elizabeth Jordan, Jeff Lee, Lauren Shoemaker & Ben Edwards. Not Pictured: Bob Mageau & Richard "Merc" Morris.

Contributed Photo

Cramerton’s ABC Board Meeting set for January 27th The Town of Cramerton’s ABC Board will meet at 1:00 p.m. on January 27, at the Town Hall, 155 North Main Street, Cramerton. The ABC Board meets the last Tuesday

of each month. The Town does not discriminate on the basis of disability. If you need an auxiliary aid or other accommodations in order to attend or fully participate at

this meeting, please contact the clerk’s office as far in advance of the meeting as possible so that your request can be considered.

Community Foundation scholarships The Community Foundation of Gaston County is now accepting applications for more than 25 scholarships.

Most scholarships are available to local students completing their final year of high school. The guidance counselors at each local high school have information on available scholarships. These scholarships offer opportunities for higher education for both students entering college or for students returning to school. Scholarship applications and information; including deadlines and criteria, can be found on the Foundation’s website, www.cfgaston.org. Deadlines are quickly approaching for a few of the scholarships.

The Community Foundation of Gaston County is able to give aid to the residents of Gaston County as a result of generous gifts

from many donors. To compete for these awards, students must fulfill specific criteria as determined by those who created each scholarship program.

“With a focus on impacting education in our community, the Foundation is actively pursuing qualified candidates to award these significant scholarships,” stated Ernest Sumner, Foundation Executive Director. “The Foundation realizes that only 12.8% of Gaston County held a Bachelor’s Degree in 2012(statistics by UNC Charlotte Urban Institute, Regional Indicator Website) compared to Mecklenburg’s 28.2%. There is room for growth and we want to help lead the way in improving educational opportunities available for the people of Gaston County.”

State Senator Harrington takes oath of office Peter Liberatore, Chairman of Operation LAMB for the Knights of Columbus, Council 11076, from Queen of the Apostles Church, Belmont presents the annual check of $879 to Regina Moody, CEO at Holy Angels. Volunteers, comprised of members of Council 11076, and their family and friends, spent a total of over 300 hours in 2014 collecting donations to support Holy Angels and other organizations and schools in Gaston County which care for and educate individuals with intellectual disabilities.

LAMB is the acronym derived from the scriptural phrase from Matthew: "to serve the Least Among My Brethren."

Contributed Photo

DROWNING IN DEBT? Bankruptcy May Be Your Lifeline Eliminate Debt Save Your Home Keep Your Cars Protect Your Assets Call for your free consultation with Kerry Balentine, an attorney with MaxGardnerLaw, PLLC, who specializes in helping people understand their options and exercise their rights under the United States Bankruptcy Code.

704-487-0616 MaxGardnerLaw, PLLC is located in the Historic Webbley at 403 S. Washington St., Shelby, NC and is a debt relief agency under Title 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code.

Sen. Kathy Harrington (R-Gaston) was sworn in last Wednesday for her third two-year term representing the 43rd district in the North Carolina Senate. The oath of office was administered

by North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Martin. As part of the opening ceremony, Harrington was selected to escort Senate Pro Tempore Phil Berger onto the floor where Chief Justice Martin administered his oath of office.

“I am honored by the tremendous responsibility the people of the 43rd district have entrusted to me, and pledge to continue working tirelessly to represent the constituency of Gaston County, making North Carolina a better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Harrington.

Harrington was also re-appointed as Co-Chair of the Appropriations/Base Budget Committee as well as a member of the Finance, Commerce, Judiciary I, Redistricting, Rules and Operations of the Senate and Transportation Committees by Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger (R-Rockingham).

“My plan this session is to pass another balanced budget and see that our tax dollars are spent even more efficiently. I will also work to improve our tax climate in an effort to attract more business to Gaston County and North Carolina,” said Harrington.

“Senator Harrington’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping policy to strengthen our state,” said Berger. “I applaud her willingness to serve the people of North Carolina and Gaston County in this capacity.”

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 8

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Don’t tempt fate driving on icy roads winter driving tips Even though our local area has been spared icy and snowy roads so far this winter, there's no guarnatee that can continue.

Take note of these AAA tips for getting around on bad roads, if you must go out. Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks. Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage. If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather. Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand). Always look and steer where you want to go.

Tips for long-distance winter trips: Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance drive or before driving in isolated areas. Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected.

If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival. Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times. Pack a cellular telephone with your local AAA’s telephone number, plus blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle. If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.

Don’t try to walk in a severe storm. It’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place a cloth at the top of a rolled up window to signal distress. At night, keep the dome light on if possible. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you. Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.

Tips for driving in the snow: Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving

Last February's snowstorm set more than one local driver into the ditch. This accident on NC27 between Mount Holly and Stanley was typical.

Bill Ward photo slowly. Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it. Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get

a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible. Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.

DSBG Classes in orchid pollination, yoga, photography and more Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden celebrates January with classes that include yoga, photography and orchid pollination.

Upcoming classes in January include: Horticultural Highlight Walk, led by Garden staff – Jan. 17, 1 p.m. Join the DSBG professional horticulture staff as they take you on a custom tour of the Garden. Guides will highlight what’s in bloom, seasonally relevant gardening tips and behind-thescenes details. Each walk is a unique experience. These walks are free with Garden admission.

Digital SLR I: The Basics, instructed by Dave Kelly, owner DEK Photography – Jan. 18, 1:30 – 4 p.m. Learn how to setup your new digital SLR camera including various settings and menu options, modes and lighting settings to create great images in every situation. Topics such as shutter speed, aperture opening, ISO sensitivity and balance will be discussed. This class requires a digital SLR camera and is $46, Garden Members receive a 15% discount.

Wellness and Rejuvenation Yoga Series, instructed by Rasheeda Hasan, certified yoga instructor – Jan. 24, 9:30 a.m. –

12:30 p.m. Each class is a personalized yoga experience to relax, rejuvenate and realign the body using breathing techniques, meditation practices, and physical yoga poses that borrow from Yin, traditional Hatha, Kundalini, and Ashtanga. Routines are accessible for beginners to advanced students. Classes will take place throughout the Garden, including spaces in the Visitors Pavilion, the outdoor gardens, and the Conservatory. Price includes a wellness starter pack of specialty herbal teas, bottled water, and an energy bar. This class is $35, or $120 for the series which includes classes on Feb. 7 & 21 and March 7. Garden Members receive a 15% discount.

Orchid Pollination, instructed by Garden Staff – Jan. 24, 1 – 3 p.m. Orchids are among the most fascinating flowers in the plant world, evolving to facilitate unusual, complex and amazing methods of pollination. In this new class, learn about orchid pollination and observe flower structures that develop around unique and often exclusive relationships with pollinators. This class is $25 plus a $25 materials fee. Garden Members receive a 15% discount on the class fee, but not the cost of materials.

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Papercrafting: All Occasions, instructed by Suzanne Patz, stamp and paper artist – Jan. 25, 1:15 –3:15 p.m. Need a card for a birthday, anniversary, get well, thank you or other occasion? Come make cards with some fun stamping techniques and they’ll be ready the next time you need one. We’ll also be making something special for Valentine’s Day! This class is $22 plus a $5 materials fee. Garden Members receive a 15% discount on the class fee, but not the cost of materials.

Papercrafting with Kids: Valentines, instructed by Stamp and Paper Artist Suzanne Patz and Garden Instructor Becky LaBar – Jan. 31, 10 a.m. – Noon. In this new class, parents and kids each make their own Valentines plus work together on special, hand-crafted creations. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Best suited for children 6 and over. This class is $25 per adult, $5 per child plus $5 per person materials fee. Garden Members receive a 15% discount on the class fee, but not the cost of materials.

For more information or to register for a class, please visit www.DSBG.org or call 704-829-1294.

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Page 9

■ SPORTS

South Point tames North Gaston Wildcats 61-49

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

South Point players #21 Ben Washam and #33 Nick Muse watch Ryan Williams score another goal in the game against North Gaston.

Photos by Lydia Julen

The Red Raiders basketball took on the North Gaston Wildcats at home intent on improving their recent success.

Solid offensive and defense efforts paid off for South Point.

The Red Raiders walked off the court with a convincing 61-49 win. With the win Big Red improves their record to 4-9.

Since coming off of the Christmas break the Red Raiders have played better as a team. Coach Kody Kubbs road trip to the Morehead Christmas Tournament paid off. The South Point players appear to be more focused. The team chemistry has improved dramatically.

Against the Wildcats, South Point continued to improved.

The Red Raiders were strong shooting from the filed and denying North Gaston rebounds.

Once again 6’3” junior Brandon Reeves continued to excel. Reeves torched North Gaston for a team high 23 points.

Reeves was just as effective under the glass. He pulled down 8 rebounds.

Also having a big night was Ryan Williams. Williams put up 17 points and hauled in 8 rebounds. Williams also proved to be a team player when he had the ball. Williams ended the night with 6 assists.

South Point’s top rebounder for the game was JT Starr.

Starr led all Red Raiders with 10 boards. He followed that up with a matching total of 10 points.

Lady Raiders fall In women’s basketball action the Lady Raiders continue to struggle. In what turned out to be a very tight game South Point fell to North Gaston 47-43. Haley Stockton had 13 points to lead all South Point shooters. Alli Jackson finished up the game with 11. The loss put the Lady Raiders record at 1-9.

Both South Point Basketball teams face off against long time rival East Gaston on Friday night.

The Cramer game will be in Cramerton. the game against East Gaston will be at home.

South Point player Ryan Williams leaps high for two more points in the game against North gaston. The final score was Raiders 61, North Gaston 49.

Lady Crusaders lose to Mount Olive

Crusaders fall to Mount Olive

Mount Olive’s lady basketball team squeaked out a 57-50 win last week over Belmont Abbey inside Kornegay Arena. Belmont Abbey drops its fifth-straight, falling to 8-7 overall and 4-5 in league play, while Mount Olive improves to 5-10 overall and 3-6 in Conference Carolinas.

The two teams were tied at 25 at halftime but the Trojans outscored the Abbey 32-25 in the final 20 minutes, including a 17-9 closing run in the final 5:18 after the Crusaders closed the deficit to 42-40.

The Trojans opened the game on a 12-6 run and would build the lead to 20-8 with 10:13 to play, but

Mount Olive only scored five more points the rest of the way as the Abbey came back with a 16-0 run over the next seven minutes as it secured its first lead at 22-20 since it led 4-2.

Mount Olive broke the drought with a three-pointer at the 2:26 mark, but two free throws from Briana Grier pushed the Crusaders back on top with 1:57 to go. The Trojans netted the final points of the half with 59 seconds left to deadlock the contest at 25 entering halftime.

Belmont Abbey would close the lead to 42-41 with 5:30 left, but the Trojans closed with a flourish to win by seven.

The 18th-ranked Mount Olive Trojans took an 82-55 win over Belmont Abbey last week at Kornegay Arena. Mount Olive’s record is now 15-2 overall and 8-1 in Conference Carolinas, while the Abbey slid to 1-15 overall and 1-8 in the league.

Mount Olive led by as many as 30 points as it built a 47-21 halftime lead.

Belmont Abbey opened the second half on an 18-8 run as the Crusaders were outscored just 35-34 in the second half.

Crusader Ray Chen tied for the game-high with 17 points.

He also had six rebounds, six assists, one steal and a blocked shot. Drexler Clark added 11 points with three steals and two assists.

The Crusaders shot 33 percent from the floor but made just five of 21 (23 percent) from three-point range.

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015

■ SPORTS

East Gaston tops Stuart Cramer

Pop Warner coach Earl Graves to receive honor The Pop Warner Youth Football Program has long trained young men in football skills, as well as how, to operate as a team to achieve success.

Gaston County has a rich tradition in this program dating back to the 1950’s and continues to this day in producing national champion squads.

Programs such as the McAdenville Dolphins and the Stanley Blue Devils have proved to be among the top midget football programs in the country.

The mold for youth football success in Gaston Co. Earl T. Graves was set back in the late 50’s with a program known as the YBMC Little Orangemen. Earl Groves, a Gastonia Mill owner, had a love for the game and served as coach and advisor for this squad for many years. His teams were three times National Champions and for nine consecutive years N. C State Champions. This program recorded a remarkable 120-5 won loss record from 1958 – 1968. In the opinion of most sports enthusiast this record of success will never again be achieved. Coach Groves is now 87 years old. A committee of his former players has organized a banquet to honor this legendary sports figure.

On February 21, at 7 pm in the Gastonia Conference Center, a special night will occur to honor a giant in the annals of Pop Warner football – Coach Earl Graves.

Tickets for this event are now available at a cost of $30 which includes a meal to be followed by a program saluting this outstanding youth football program and Coach Groves.

Locally, tickets can be purchased at the State Farm Insurance Office located in Catawba Heights. The banquet site seats 350 and is expected to be a sell-out. Any former players, their families and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets quickly as there will be a cut off of sales at 350.

East Gaston’s Hayley Hovis and Stuart Cramer’s Laura Trull go for the ball in Friday’s game. East Gaston came out on top 55-35.

Jared Siddle of East Gaston sails high in the air for a score in the game against Stuart Cramer. The Warriors came out on top 56-46.

Belmont Abbey baseball alumni event The second annual Belmont Abbey baseball alumni weekend will take place February 7-8 during the Crusaders series against Shippensburg University. Saturday will feature a doubleheader beginning at noon and a single game Sunday at 1:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m. Saturday night, there will be an Alumni barbeque at the Lowry Alumni House.

The cost is $20 which includes food and beverage.

All proceeds will benefit the Crusaders baseball program. Hotel arrangements: Hampton Inn, 820 Cecilia Alexander Dr., Belmont, NC 28012, 704-825-6100, Discount code: Belmont Abbey Group ($99/night). For more information, please contact: John Merritt via email(johnsmerritt35@ gmail.com) or cell(336-408-9463).

Banner-News.com

A jumper flies from the hands of Stuart Cramer’s Isiah Foust during Friday’s game against East Gaston. The Warriors won 56-46.

East Gaston player Shai Robinson goes for the shot against Stuart Cramer’s Lexi Trull. The Warriors won 55-35.

Photos by Bill Ward

Thursday, January 22, 2015

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 11

Winners named in seventh annual Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair From popcorn to hovercraft, cactus “hair care,” and wastewater in the South Fork River, Gaston County Schools students shared their research on a wide range of topics during the seventh annual Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair. The event was held Saturday, January 10 at the Schiele Museum in Gastonia.

Adam Cook - Cramerton Middle

Grace Sheppard and Shelby Blackwood - Belmont Central The 95 projects in the competition represented 115 high school students, 38 middle school students and four elementary students.

After a full day of reviewing the projects and talking to students about their research, the judges named winners in several categories.

Ashbrook High School student Dalton Hoskins was named the overall high school winner for his project, “The Effects of Industrialized Areas on the Water Quality around Gaston County.” Patrick Rosemond, another Ashbrook student, earned the high school honorable mention for “The Effect of Bisphenol A from Polycarbonate Containers on E. Coli Cultures.”

In the middle school category, Ryan Proud of Belmont Middle was named the winner for his project, “The Fastest Way to Cool a Soda.” The honorable mention went to Adam Cook of Cramerton Middle for his project, “Lead in Soil: Are There Dangerous Levels Around You?” These students, along with winners and runners-up in other categories, are able to take their projects to the next level of competition at UNC Charlotte where the Region 6 Science and Engineering Fair will be held February 7.

Tammy Mims, science curriculum facilitator for Gaston County Schools and one of the science fair organizers, said the winning projects were well done and have a good chance of ad-

vancing on to the state level competition. The fair was an overall success, Mims said.

“All of our students were able to learn through the process, and we had good representation from our students, teachers and community partners,” she said.

All category winners received cash prizes this year with the overall high school and middle school winners and honorable mentions receiving $250 and $150 respectively. These funds came from the FMC Lithium Corporation, which has partnered with Gaston County Schools to support the science and engineering fair and science education in Gaston County.

FMC Lithium contributed $40,000 to the school system in November to support the science fair over the next four years.

“Their contribution opens so many opportunities for the science fair to improve and expand,” Mims said.

FMC Lithium also presented a special award, the Lithium Excellence Award, to Solomon Collins of Ashbrook High School for his project, “Purge Those Pimples: The Effect of Benzoyl Peroxide Concentration on Bacterial Growth.”

Gaston College presented its “Sparc” of Genius Award to Jasmine Dee of East Gaston High School for “The Effects of Temperature on the Life Cycle of Drosophila Melanogaster.”

Listed are the winners in each category for the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair. In some categories, a second or third place winner was not named.

Elementary School Awards First place: Shelby Blackwood and Grace Sheppard, Belmont Central Elementary, “Which Toy is Worth the Hassle?”

Second place: Patrick Hullett and Xavier Hutchinson, Costner Elementary, “The Way A Ball Bounces” Middle School Awards Life Science Category: First place: Crystalee West, Grier Middle School, “Does Smell Affect Taste?”

Second place: Jennifer Potts and Noah Silverman, Grier Middle School, “Do Tomatoes Like Coffee?”

Third place: Delia Wilson, Grier Middle School, “The Effects of Food Coloring when Absorbed Into a Red Flower vs. a White Flower” Earth Science Category: First place: James Cole, Gabrielle Robbins and Andy Martinez, Grier Middle School, “Archimedes Screw Pump” Physical Science Category: First place: Justin Tolbert, Belmont Middle School, “What Type of Soda Has the Most Acid?”

Second place: Nathan Vasquez and Edgar Aguazul, Southwest Middle School, “Soapy Water” Third place: Mariah Jones and Angela Knox, Southwest Middle School, “Poppin’ Popcorn” Technology and Engineering Category: First place: Joey Vale, Grier Middle School, “Using Hydropower to Lift a Load” Second place: William Raffone and Robert Raffone, Cramerton Middle School, “Hovering to Victory” Third place: Emma Dixon and Albani Williams, Grier Middle School, “Hovercraft Weight Challenge” High School Awards Life Science Category: First place: Solomon Collins, Ashbrook High School, “Purge those Pimples: The Effect of Benzoyl Peroxide Concentration on Bacterial Growth” Second place: Devin Totherow, Amanda Rhyne and Kyra Crossgrove, Gaston Early College, “The Effects of Music on Your Concentration” Third place: Chrissy Humphrey, Lauren Helms and Jaji Watson, Ashbrook High School, “How Sweet the Sound” Earth Science Category: First place: Mallory Alman, Ashbrook High School, “Effects of Wastewater Effluent on the Chemical Properties of the South Fork Catawba River”

William and Robert Raffone - Cramerton Middle

Ryan Proud (center) - Belmont Middle

Jasmine Dee - East Gaston Second place: Parker Greene, Ashbrook High School, “Aeroponics” Third place: Elizabeth Hendrix and Aaron Froelich, Ashbrook High School, “Miracle Paste” Physical Science Category: First place: Cinthia Lora, Destiny Pheangkhamhak and Shemaria Powell, Gaston Early College, “Cactus Hair Care” Second place: Matthew Fargher, Ashbrook High School, “Effect of Wing Design on Flight”

Third place: Thomas Bolt, Ashbrook High School, “The Effect of Liquid Fuel on Burning” Technology and Engineering Category: First place: Ethan Marr, Ashbrook High School, “The Coil Gun” Second place: Isaac High, Holly McIntosh and Sam Boyles, Ashbrook High School, “Concussion Reducing Helmets” Third place: Tyler Long, Ashbrook High School, “Making Arrows”.

Photos Contributed

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 12

Thursday, January 22, 2015

â&#x2013; SCHOOL NEWS

Gaston Christian celebrates School Spirit Week Gaston Christian High School students kicked off their annual Homecoming with Spirit Week last week. -Monday was Superhero Day, Tuesday was Western Day and Workout Wednesday. Gaston Christian High School students continued their annual Homecoming activities with Character Day on Thursday for Spirit Week.

Character Theme Day

Workout Wednesday Photos Contributed

Super Hero Theme Day

January is National School Board recognition month January is National School Board Recognition Month. In Gaston County, we have an outstanding nine-member Board of Education that is responsible for establishing policies and guidelines for school operations. All of our board members are committed to shaping the future of Gaston County, and we appreciate their service to our schools. Board of Education members pictured with Superintendent Jeff Booker are Mark Upchurch (Cherryville Township), Catherine Roberts (Dallas Township), Chairman Kenneth Lutz (Crowders Mountain Township), Dot Cherry (At-Large Member), Lee Dedmon (Gastonia Township), Kevin Collier (Riverbend Township), Dot Guthrie (Gastonia Township), Vice Chairman Jeff Ramsey (At-Large Member) and Chris Howell (South Point Township).

Gaston Schools photo

Western Theme Day

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Page 13

■ SCHOOL NEWS

Gaston Schools Good News Gaston County Schools has announced the following good news: Board of Education retreat is January 23-24 at Rader Center The Board of Education’s annual retreat will be held Friday, January 23 beginning at 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, January 24 from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Rader Staff Development Center in Cramerton. The Board’s regular meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday, January 20 has been rescheduled for Saturday, January 24 at 9:00 a.m. to coincide with the retreat. The retreat and regular meeting are open to the public. The agendas will be posted on the GCS website.

Committee working on 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 calendars The GCS calendar committee, which includes teachers, administrators, staff, students and parents, begins work this week on developing draft calendars for the 20152016 and 2016-2017 school years. The committee meets this Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Central Office. Once the draft calendars are complete,

through February 13. For more information, contact your high school counselor or e-mail Commissioners’ School directors Lori Collins, lwcollins@gaston.k12.nc.us, or Bridget Matzke, bsmatzke@gaston. k12.nc.us.

National Mentoring Month – take time to thank the mentors at your school January is National Mentoring Month. Our school mentors give of their time, talents and resources to make a difference in the lives of children. Please take time this month to honor and thank the mentors in your school. Let them know how much you appreciate what they do for students. For more information, please visit www.nationalmentoringmonth.org.

Highland open house, application deadline and lottery dates The application process is

they will be presented to employees, students, parents and the public for input and sent to the Board of Education for final approval.

Commissioners’ School seeking applicants for 2015 summer session Current ninth grade students may apply to attend the 2015 Commissioners’ School of Excellence, which is an outstanding two-week summer enrichment program held at Belmont Abbey College. Commissioners’ School gives rising tenth graders an opportunity to learn more about Gaston County and their roles as future leaders in our community. Activities include seminars, hands-on experiences, field trips, guest speakers and other events that help students to develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Applications will be accepted January 26

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underway for current eighth grade students wishing to attend the Highland School of Technology next year. Information is available on the school’s website. Please note the following dates: February 10 – Open House, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.; February 28 – Application to attend Highland must be postmarked by this date; March 19 – Lottery held in Highland auditorium, 4:00 p.m.

Gaston Early College open house dates and application deadline The Gaston Early College High School will host two open house events for current eighth grade students interested in attending the Early College next year: Monday, February 9 and Monday, February 16 at 6:00 p.m. for students and parents. Applications are due to middle school counselors or the Early College office by Friday, February 20.

All-county band and middle school chorus concerts Don’t miss the opportunity to hear some of the most outstanding student musicians in Gaston County. The allcounty band concert (middle and high schools) is Saturday, February 7 at 2:00 p.m. at Ashbrook High School.

The all-county middle school chorus concert is Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00 p.m. at Holbrook Middle School. The concerts are free and open to the public.

Members of the Gaston Christian School Class of 2015 recently took a trip to Disney World where they had some fun and soaked up Florida sunshine.

Gaston Christian School photo

Gaston Day School student Mackenzie Moore and her Saddlebred steed Chinaberry were recently recognized as ASHA National High Point Champion in the Walk/Trot Pleasure division for Region 9. This is the second year in a row for them. She is also High Point Champion in Region 9, which is NC, SC, & TN. Contributed photo

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On December 3, , twenty-two members of the Jr. Beta Club had the opportunity to work at the Charlotte Operation Christmas Child Processing Center. Along with three GCS teachers and parent chaperones, the students performed various tasks in preparing the Christmas shoeboxes and worked alongside volunteers from across the Southeast. The club has had the privilege of participating in this ministry for several years.

Gaston Christian School photo

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 14

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Hannons receive award from Holy Angels Regina Moody, President/CEO of Holy Angels, Belmont, NC presented the prestigious Dr. C. Ellis Fisher Caring Hands, Caring Heart Award to Dr. Steve & Suzy Hannon, who have been affiliated with Holy Angels for over 25 years. The award recognizes distinction, excellence commitment, generosity and vision.

Dr. Steve Hannon is a very successful and generous orthodontist and businessman (Hannon Orthodontics) and Suzy is a community volunteer and talented artist. Both are committed to making a difference. Suzy will tell you that Holy Angels is dear to their hearts - and have supported Holy Angels over the years - in appreciation for the blessings of their five children. She also says, “Holy Angels is a place where dignity, love and care are present, always.”

About five years ago - the Hannons came up with an idea for a fundraiser for Holy Angels - that involved two lovely Italian Mamas.

The Grazie Mille Gala - A Thousand Thanks - a creative and unique event that has proven to be very successful. They have given their full support for all five events.

Regina Moody, Holy Angels President/ CEO noted, “Steve and Suzy’s support and actions speak volumes - they always gives from their hearts; showing care and concern for our residents and staff. They have truly embraced Holy Angels mission of loving, living and learning for the differently able.”

Holy Angels was founded in 1956 by the Sisters of Mercy - beginning a much needed specialized service for children from Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland and Mecklenburg counties as well as children from throughout the state of North Carolina. The private, nonprofit corporation located in Belmont, NC, provides residential services and innovative programs for children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities with delicate medical conditions.

The CARF accredited programs include Holy Angels Morrow Center, the McAuley Residences (Fox Run ICF/MR group homes (three six-bed), Belhaven ICF/MR group home (15-bed), Moody Place ICF/MR group home (15-bed), four community group homes, Great Adventures, Camp Hope, Cherubs Café & Cherubs Candy Bouquet (voca-

2015 Election Dates The Gaston County Board of Elections has set the following operational dates for 2015.

July 6, 2015 (8:30 am) Candidate filing begins for municipal offices on the 2015 ballot in Belmont, Bessemer City, Cherryville, Cramerton, Dallas, Gastonia, High Shoals, Lowell, McAdenville, Mount Holly, Ranlo, Spencer Mountain and Stanley.

July 17, 2015 (12:00 noon) Candidate filing ends for municipal offices on the 2015 ballot.

October 4, 2015 Absentee ballots by mail available to voters upon written request.

Holy Angels President/CEO Regina Moody (left) is seen with Dr. C. Ellis Fisher; Suzy Hannon and Dr. Steve Hannon.

Contributed Photo tional program) in downtown Belmont and, Life Choices, an adult day activities program offering living and learning opportunities.

October 9, 2015 (5:00 pm) Last day to register to be eligible to vote on Municipal Election Day. October 22, 2015 (8:00 am) One-Stop absentee voting (Early Voting) begins for Municipal Election.

October 27, 2015 (5:00 pm) Last day to request a mail-out absentee ballot for Municipal Election.

October 31, 2015 (1:00 pm) One-Stop absentee voting (Early Voting) ends for Municipal Election.

November 2, 2015 (5:00 pm) Last day to request an absentee ballot for voters unable to vote on Election Day due to sickness or physical disability.

To learn more about Holy Angels, please call 704.825.4161 or visit Holy Angels’ website at www.HolyAngelsNC.org

November 3, 2015 (5:00 pm) Deadline for receipt of mail-out absentee ballots for Municipal Election.

November 3, 2015 Municipal Election Day (polls open 6:30 am to 7:30 pm).

November 6, 2015 (10:00 am) Sample hand-to-eye count of Municipal Election.

November 6, 2015 (5:00 pm) Deadline for mail-out absentee ballots postmarked November 3, 2015.

November 9, 2015 (5:00 pm) Deadline for military-overseas absentee ballots that are transmitted electronically to be returned.

November 10, 2015 (11:00 am) Canvass of Municipal Election.

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Legals STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTONNOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the17th day of December, 2014 as Executrix of the Estate of DANIEL A. BAIN, aka; DANIEL ANDREW BAIN, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Rebecca B. Denton, Executrix on or before the 24th day of

March, 2015, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 31st day of December, 2014.

Rebecca B. Denton, Executrix Estate of: Daniel A. Bain, aka; Daniel A. Bain, 304 Ogden Dr. Belmont, NC 28056 627 Secrest Ave BN10588 (12/31/2014 & 1/07,14, 21/ 2015)

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the1st day of December, 2014 as Executrix of the Estate of JAMES RAY PARK,deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Lori P. Blevins, Executrix

on or before the 22nd day of April, 2015, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of January, 2015.

Lori P. Blevins, Executrix Estate of: James Ray Park 110 Knoll CT Belmont, NC 28012 BN10589 (1/22, 29, 2/05 & 12/2015)

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