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Thursday, January 29, 2015

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Army Navy Outlet 6416 Wilkinson Blvd. • Belmont, NC Main Street Crossing Shopping Center MONDAY-SATURDAY 10-7

Volume 80 • Issue 4

Serving Belmont • Cra Cramerton t • Lowell • McAdenville • Mount Holly • Stanley

Thursday, January 29, 2015

DVD chronicles Fighting Yank’s move to Stowe Park

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

WBTV personality Steve Crump presented Clay Julen and Chasity Mayfield with the 24th Annual Belmont Unity Day Humanitarian Award last week.

Photo by Alan Hodge

24th Annual Unity Day held at Belmont Foursquare Church

By Alan Hodge

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Last week's 24th annual Belmont Unity Day event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a combination of soulful music, fond remembrance of that great man's legacy, and recognition of how hard, heartfelt work has helped make the local community one where folks of all races get along better than in a lot of places.

The service was held at Belmont Foursquare Church and singers from that congregation as well as the Hood Memorial AME Zion Church Youth Choir and the Mt. Pleasant Men's Choir provided several interludes of stirring tunes throughout the evening.

First Foursquare's Rev. Kenneth Ford and Mount Moriah Baptist's Rev. Kenneth Alexander welcomed the capacity crowd.

“This is a wonderful occasion and a wonderful blessing,” Alexander said. “It is a day to stop

and remember that Dr. King is worthy to have recognition.”

Alexander went on to declare that “Belmont is a model city not just in the county, state, and nation, but in the world for racial harmony.”

Marion Steve McClain led the traditional Unity Candle lighting by South Point High students Reginald Dawkins, Yaneli Banuelos, and Rosie Tran.

“I'm proud to be from Belmont,” McClain said. “If he were here, Dr. King would be proud of how far we have come, but we still have a long way to go.”

Patricia Brannon Franks introduced student speakers Amari Andrews and Bianaca Hanafin.

Nine-year-old Andrews, who attends Belmont Central Elementary School shared her thoughts See more UNITY DAY page 2

Black History Forum planned Sunday, Feb. 15 at 3pm the City of Mount Holly will hold its 12th annual Black History Forum in the Municipal Complex, 400 E. Central Ave.

This year's theme will be “For Educational Purposes Only” and will feature speakers Kemp Michael and Marie Anders of the Michael, Lopez, and

Anders law firm.

For more information contact John Hope, chairman of the Black History Committee, at 980-522-0248.

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See more FIGHTING YANK page 3

Build a Better Boulevard ideas presented to officials

By Alan Hodge

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

After many, many hours of work, a study on the past, present, and future of Wilkinson Blvd., aka US29/74, between Belmont and Cramerton was presented to local officials and other interested parties on January 15.

The study was done by Demetri Baches, CEO of the consulting firm Metrocology.

Baches and his staff looked at the boulevard from every possible angle including traffic flow, aesthetics, and future development. Dozens of slides showing the boulevard from the air, ground, and conceptually were also part of the event that was held in Cramerton Town Hall.

Baches said the presentation was “very well received”.

He went on to remark.

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Last Oct. 4 saw one of the most memorable days in Belmont history when the “Spirit of the Fighting yank WWII memorial statue was official rededicated in Stowe Park.

The event was characterized by patriotic fervor and saw NC Gov. Pat McCrory deliver a rousing keynote speech.

Other equally enthusiastic remarks were delivered form the podium by Belmont mayor Charlie Martin and former mayor Richard Boyce.

Uplifting and lively America music was performed by members of the South Point High marching band and chorus.

The official unveiling of the Fighting Yank was Carrol Trull (white shirt) is seen presenting a copy of done by Pearl Harbor sur- the Fighting Yank DVD to Lincoln Lawing, area director vivor Gene Reinhardt and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, as videographer Bon Korean War veteran Jim Lionello and Belmont mayor Charlie Martin look on.

Reeves.

Photo by Alan Hodge Afterward, McCrory plunged into the large crowd and mingled with veterans, many of whom had actually served in WWII. It was a day no one would ever want to forget.

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Page 2

UNITY DAY

Thursday, January 29, 2015

FROM page 1

on what Dr. King and his legacy means to her.

“Thank God for the life we have and Martin Luther King Jr.,” she said.

Hanafin, 16, was adopted from a Chinese orphanage and is one of South Point's most outstanding students. She related racial challenges she has faced as an Asian and pointed to Dr. King as an example of someone who fought against such injustice.

“He changed the lives of all Americans,” she said. “We cannot abandon his hard work. It is crucial for my generation to keep his dream alive.”

Following remarks by Belmont Central principal Phyllis Whitworth and Mayor Charlie Martin, WBTV host Steve Crump took the stage and made the Humanitarian Award presentation. This year's recipients were South Point students Clay Julen and Chasity Mayfield.

Crump praised both youths and called Mayfield “dedicated, goal ori-

ented, and compassionate”. Julen was cited for his high standards on and off the athletic field and his work as a special Olympics volunteer.

“How can you not be inspired by Belmont's young humanitarians?”

Crump asked the crowd.

"To be one of the 2015 recipients of the MLK Humanitarian Award is a great honor,” Julen said. “Dr. King once said, 'Yes, it is love that will save our world and our civilization, love even for enemies.' If we, one person at a time would strive to do this, the world would be a more unified and peaceful place, a world where equal South Point student Bianca Hanafin was one of rights and opportunities were afforded the speakers at last week's Unity day event in to all, a world that Dr. King saw in Belmont. his dream" Photo by Alan Hodge The evening wrapped up with the traditional singing of “We Shall Overcome”. The offering plate collection of $678 was given to the SOCKS community relief agency.

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Gaston Parks Senior Games Kickoff planned Gaston County Senior Center will be hosting “Souper” Senior Games Kick Off on February 6, 2015 from 11am-until.

All Senior Citizens 50 and over are invited to come out and learn how to participate in Senior Games at the local level.

We will 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 Nine-year-old Amari Andrews, a Belmont Cen- the County’s website at www.gastongov.com. Gaston County tral student, told the Unity Day crowd what Mar- strives to make its programs, services, and activities accessible to all. If you will require an accommodation we request that tin Luther Kin Jr's legacy meant to her.

Photo by Alan Hodge you contact our office at least 5 days before the event.

Members of First Foursquare Church and the Mt. Pleasant Men's Choir belted out several selections at the Belmont Unity Day event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Photo by Alan Hodge

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.

“The Price is Right” Okay … you have decided to sell … so … Is the Price Right?

To get things started right, you need a real estate professional who will be upfront with you about the location, condition, presentation, as well as the PRICE for your house. I suggest having someone who can be diplomatic but will share The Great, The Good and … occasionally, The Ugly. Through a straight forward review of the property, a strategy can be created to best present the property to the buying public while addressing any potential buyer objections.

The Youth Choir from Hood Memorial AME Zion Church added its energy to the Belmont Unity Day celebration.

Photo by Alan Hodge

As a seller, you need to know the “Market Price” for your property. The Market Price is defined as “the price at which a product can be sold at a particular time.” * I suggest finding a price range to start; then determine your list price according to market conditions and how your property will best compete successfully against other homes on the market. Be realistic and have an agent who will be straight with you because the wrong price can cost you.

Q. How much negotiation room do I need?

A. Not much … because too much and you lose your buyer!

Buyers today have more information than ever! Qualified buyers, who are ready, willing and able to buy, most often have a real estate professional representing and advising them as a Buyer Agent. They have access to a wealth of information about the market and competing properties. Buyers also have access to tax records, previous sale’s history, neighborhood sales data and other nearby sales; and with the click of a mouse, buyers have immediate access to any number of websites showing what homes are on the market or have sold. In addition to this access to information, buyers have a professional buyer agent helping them gather and interpret this information. Buyers are savvy and precise in their selection of homes. So … don’t miss the cut and be left out!

What does a buyer think of your price?

My experience has been that the market quickly and clearly determines, sometimes with brutal clarity, if your price is right!

For more information or your free market review, please call for an appointment.

Marion Steve McClain watches as South Point High students Reginald Dawkins, Yaneli Banvelos, and Rosie Tran light the Unity Candle at the Unity Day service.

Photo by Alan Hodge

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

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 3

BOULEVARD

FIGHTING YANK

FROM page 1 greater context of the transportation corridor it is part of,” Baches said. “Knowing what the future holds for Wilkinson as well as I-85, Park Street, N. Main Street, etc., will shape the type and timing of the improvements that can be made to Wilkinson itself. We don't want to make changes that end up being ripped up as intersections are rebuilt to accommodate traffic.”

A couple of the changes Baches referenced would include major reworking of the intersection at N. Main in Belmont and the possible narrowing of current lanes so the outer two could be reconfigured for plantings or bicycles.

So, what did attendees take away from the seminar?

Belmont city council member Richard Turner had this to say.

“Overall I liked the concepts presented that said my concerns now are funding the project.

We are in the conceptual stage of the process; Wrecks on I-85 in Gaston County or just across the river can clog US29/74 as folks try to find an althe difficult part will be funding these concepts ternate route in their travels. This backup took place last Wednesday after a tractor trailer crashed into reality. The question of who will fund and near Lowell. to what extent will be what drives any changes Photo by Alan Hodge to Wilkinson Blvd. I would encourage the people of Belmont to go online to www.buildabetterboulevard.com anyone who would like to may call me, my cell number is listed on the city website under Mayor and Council. I would be interested in hearing what our citizens have to say regarding this.

Cramerton mayor Ronnie Worley was also on hand at the presentation.

“Cramerton will benefit from a plan that improves traffic flow on Wilkinson Blvd,” he said. “I hope the plan will also spur economic development along the Wilkinson corridor. Cramerton and McAdenville are presently working on improving the Market St. US 74 intersection for pedestrian safety with crosswalks. Wilkinson is under utilized with the present wide medians and very little options for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Wilkinson is the gateway into Gaston County and is in need of immediate improvement.”

Former NC legislator Wil Neumann of Belmont attended the meeting.

“There are a lot of good take a ways from the process,” he said. “The best most immediate and least expensive will be a new system to monitor the traffic lights on the boulevard and it offers the ability to change the signals at any time give the direction of the traffic. Work/school hours and left hand turn lanes can be lengthened or shortened depending on the traffic. Some of the other things will still force people to move north from the peninsula to go east to Charlotte and reverse in the evening. I did not hear any dollars mentioned but everything had a cost. DOT has very little money and as we have few advocates for eastern Gaston County that it appears to be wish list items.”

Now that Baches and his folks have presented their findings, what will the next step be and when will it take place?

Here's his thoughts on that subject.

The next step is to have Belmont, Cramerton, and McAdenville approve the recommendations so that the Metropolitan Planning Organization can incorporate them into their long range planning. This will set into motion the the prioritization of those recommendations eligible for state funding and implementation by the DOT. Recommendations not eligible for state funding would seek federal funding and grants.

When could actual rejuvenation and redesign work start?

“Parts of the boulevard that will not require major rebuild over the next 10 years can begin looking for funding and construction right away,” Baches said.

“How soon work would begin is dependent on the time lines of whatever the funding sources are. The improvements to make the boulevard look better are mostly ones that would be funded by the state DOT. They would require tax money or funding from the municipalities, or grants/funding from federal programs.

The areas that could begin construction at some point in the next five years would be between the major intersections where there is no need for widening.”

FROM page 1 Working with technical staff Bob Lionello, Mike Hoover, and James Dockery, Belmont resident Carrol Trull has created a fabulous DVD of the entire ceremony entitled “New Home for the Fighting Yank”.

Not only is the ceremony featured on the DVD, other segments show the entire process of how the statue was moved to the park, and how the beautiful pavilion where it is now standing was built from scratch.

Trull explained what it took to get the DVD up and running.

“Art Shoemaker invited me to become a committee member for moving The Fighting Yank statue from Belmont Middle School (formerly Belmont High School) where it had been since 1946,” Trull said. “After accepting the invitation I was given a financial goal amount to raise which I did in a couple of days. After turning the money I had raised over to Art, I suggested that it would be nice if we had a brochure and a DVD of the project. He responded that this was an excellent idea, but said that all his time and the project money would have to go to pay for moving the statue and building the pavilion.

Then he added 'I'm going to put you in charge of getting this done, I just can't give you any money'. While driving home it occurred to me that Art pulled an old sales technique by tossing the porcupine (job) back to me. As I drove I thought to myself - what have I gotten myself into - here I agreed to make a brochure and DVD and I've used up most of my good money contacts. Where is the money coming from?”

Trull put on his thinking cap.

“After coming to my senses, I prayed to the good Lord to make a way for me to do this job-thankfully, He did!”, he said. “Videographer Bob Lionello volunteered his time and expertise , Michael Hoover and the Governor's Press provided additional footage. Our lunch bunch of old Belmont Red Raider athletes paid for the brochure. The Friends of the Fighting Yank helped with producing the DVD and my friend David Robinson put me in contact with Kay Withers who owns Withers and Whisnant Funeral Home in Gastonia and she was more than glad to pay for the computer editing of the video.

The moral of this true story is - if you toss a porcupine to Art Shoemaker, be prepared to get it back.”

Shoemaker praised Trull and everyone connected with the project.

“Carrol and everyone did a great job,” he said. “The DVD is first class. It's history and everyone should show this to their children.”

The DVDs are available at Belmont General Store for $8 each. All proceeds from their sale will go to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at South Point High for mission trips.

Workshop for farmers market managers Feb. 20 The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will host its fifth annual workshop for managers of local farmers markets Friday, Feb. 20, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Greensboro.

The workshop will be held at the Guilford County Cooperative Extension Office, 3309 Burlington Road in Greensboro. The event includes sessions on legal protections, liability, grant funding and event planning. Networking opportunities also will be available throughout the day.

“When it comes to farmers markets, North Carolina is a national leader with more than 200 markets located across the state,” said Ag-

riculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This workshop will give local managers the tools they need to build stronger markets, which in turn will benefit farmers, consumers and communities as a whole.”

The cost is $20 and includes lunch. Registration deadline is Feb. 11.

A complete agenda with registration form is available at www.ncagr. gov/markets/agribiz.

For more information about the workshop, contact Kevin Hardison, NCDA&CS marketing specialist, at 919-707-3123 or kevin.hardison@ ncagr.gov.

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Sweetheart Breakfast in Stanley The Stanley Fire Department will host a Sweetheart Breakfast on Saturday, February 14th from 8am – 11 am. Plates are $5.00 each to help support the Stanley Volunteer Fire Department. The station is located on Blacksnake Rd. near NC27.

Page 4

Opinions...

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Yours, Ours, Others

" If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living."

- Gail Sheehy

My opinion... Time Marches On Time marches on. Sometimes it stomps a mudhole in you then stomps the mud out.

Sometimes it treads as lightly as a butterfly foot. Either way, its forward motion is relentless.

Last week was my birthday. I was 29 years old. In my own mind. Actually I have a few more miles on the clock, well, maybe more than few but I shan't say how many but the point is I feel myself in a unique position in time as it relates to our local area. That is, poised on a cusp of sorts and so able to see how it was and how it is and how it will be.

As a child, before we moved to that horrific place called the Queen City, I lived in Catawba Heights near my grandfather Sinclair Smith's farm and later for a spell in a house across the street from Sterling Mill. The Belmont and Mount Holly region back then, the 1950s, was an entirely different world and I was there.

Sometimes I would spend the night at the farmhouse and it was utterly dark and quiet and a car would come creeping along the Belmont-Mount Holly Road every hour or so.

One car. One hour. It was so quiet you could hear the farmhouse creak. I don't know where I got the idea, but in my kid-brain I was sure the joint was haunted and I would lay on the couch in the parlor

sweating like a and it was in hot bacon horse with fear grease and a cast iron of ghosts. Once, skillet.

I was sure I saw Look at downtown a spook and I Belmont now. Parknearly wet my ing is at a premium. pants but it Restaurants and shops was only greatsee a steady stream of grandma Smith folks. Folks come out creeping in the of the eateries picking dark wearing their teeth and belcha white nighting. They come out of gown maybe Alan Hodge the stores after picking looking for her Banner-News Editor their home décor items can of Tuberose snuff. Whew! and doodads. In Mount Holly Now, that same road is busy the downtown area has gone 24/7 and there are big plans in to charm school. It is lively the works to widen it where and attractive. The city leadit meets the NC273 “bypass” ers have pushed and pushed near Mt Holly Farm Supply. for improvements and impleAt the other end near Belmont mented them.

Abbey and Woodlawn, the cars The same may be said of and trucks back up for a couple Cramerton. The South Fork of hundred yards in the after- River through there was once noon. a stinking stream and Goat IsDowntown Belmont once land near downtown a jungle. centered around Stowe Mer- Look at it now. The island's cantile, Woolworths, and new park is a jewel and the Belks. In Stowe Merc you row of shops near it will surely could get everything from benefit from all the folks who bib overalls to Buster Brown want to stroll across the now shoes. In Woolworths they sold clean waters on the spectacugoldfish, hot Spanish peanuts, lar bridge that was recently and at Easter, chicken bid- erected at town center. dies. One year we got a couple Wilkinson Blvd. is another of biddies and they grew into aspect of our area that has full-blown chickens in no time gone through many phases. and my mom sent them pack- It wasn't even paved until the ing to the farm and when we mid 1920s. In my youth it was went there later I asked about best known as the pathway to the fowls and it seems they had those mysterious and notorious possibly “run off”. Later, I fig- establishments just across the ured out where they ended up river in Mecklenburg County

known as “beer joints”. As a youth I heard tales of punchups and all sorts of riotous behavior at those places but of course never went in. I seem to remember hearing that one had a pet Myna bird that could talk, but I am sure that mascot's mouth probably could have used a washing out with soap.

On “our” side of the Catawba, old-time Wilkinson Blvd. had several landmarks one of which was the Do-Nut Dinette. This business boomed during the 1950s but “progress” in the form of I-85 took away many of the cars that once drove by it and it closed.

Wilkinson Blvd. lost its shine for a long time. Nowadays, it's experiencing a rebirth and a study known as “Build a Better Boulevard” is looking at ways to spruce up the stretch between the Catawba and South Fork rivers for the future.

I hope this time trip has not bored you. It is just my way of explaining with examples the dynamic days we are in and how we got here. Everyone, no matter if their family has lived here for 242 years as mine has, or if they moved here last week, is living in one of the best places anywhere and should do everything they can to see the bright future it has continue in the coming decades. Time marches on.

SIDEWALK SURVEY Q: Should the rich pay more taxes?

Banner-News Meditations Put practice into your faith In my early years, I took piano lessons as a classical pianist. My first piece of music from memory was Für Elise

by Ludwig Van Beethoven. To memorize the piece I first began by focusing my mind on practicing. It would have been easy to slip out on a pretty afternoon to play, but in my mind I determined to devote time to Rev. Angela Pleasants learning the music.

For this reason, I First United played it continuously until it be- Methodist Church, came second nature.

When I sat down at Mount Holly the piano, my fingers automatically knew what to play.

Musicians practice to perform. Athletes practice to compete.

Likewise, Christians should gain understanding and put into practice their faith. “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me practice these things.” Philippians 4:8-9a ESV. As Christians do we put thought and practice into the godly traits we learn from the examples of Jesus’ life? There is always room for improvement as we practice the faith. Before beginning each day read a passage of scripture. Allow God’s word to settle in your heart as you go throughout the day. If the word says love your neighbor practice it by finding a way to do a kind deed for your neighbor. If the word says to walk in humility practice treating others as more important than yourself. If the word says do not be anxious then practice through prayer giving your concerns to God. Make practicing your faith a habitual custom and not just the attribute of God, but God himself will be with us. “The God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9b ESV.

A Princess Closet needs help Once again, Deneen Isles will be helping young ladies with having a prom dress this year with her Princess Closet event.

She is asking for donations for any used or new prom dresses, or shoes etc., for young ladies. On March 28, from 8:00a.m until 4:00 p.m. she will be having a day for young ladies to come and try on prom dresses at Burge Memorial United Methodist Church, 312 West Glendale Ave. in Mt. Holly. There will be door prizes, and also refreshments and gifts for all the young ladies on this day. Alterations will be done on the same day if needed free of charge. For more information call Deneen Isles at (704)822-1341 or (704)441-1904 Shante McClain (704)4780094. Also volunteer hours will be offered for set up days and helping with the event.

We welcome your comments Send your Letter to the Editor to:

The Banner News PO BOX 589 • Belmont NC 28012

or email: alan.banner.news@gmail.com ANTHONY GIST Yes, They should be taxed more.

FELECIA ROBINSON The real question is what would be done with the money to help the nation.

NIKKI BALLARD

No. There should be a national sales tax so everyone pays the same.

CHRISTINE RIENKS Yes, They should pay their share to help those less fortunate.

Published by Community First Media, Inc. Alan Hodge - Editor alan.bannernews@gmail.com

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 5

Banner-News LIFESTYLES Health insurance Open Enrollment ends on Feb. 15

Dobys celebrate 70 years Robert Lawrence Doby and Gladys Queen Doby of Belmont celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on December 28, 2014.

The event was held at Friendship Baptist Church, which they have been members of for 65 years. The reception was hosted by their children Trudy Abee and Bob Doby and their families. They have four grandchildren, Doug, Laura, Betsy, and Molly. They also have four great -grandchildren, William, Anderson, Caleb, and Delaney.

The Dobys were married December 22, 1944 in York, SC. Lawrence served in the

36th Infantry Division in World War II. He received medals for his service including Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart, and Presidential Unit Citation. He is currently the chaplain of The World War II Last Man Club.

Both Lawrence and Gladys retired from the printing industry.

The older photograph was taken on their wedding day on December 22, 1944. The more recent photograph was taken on December 28, 2014 at the reception celebrating their 70th anniversary.

Nearly 7.2 million consumers selected a plan or were automatically re-enrolled in the Federally Facilitated Marketplace as of Jan. 16, 2015, including 458,676 in North Carolina.

“With just a couple of weeks before the February 15 deadline and the end of Open Enrollment, 458,676 North Carolina consumers are counting on the Marketplace for affordable health coverage,” HHS Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell said.

Five Facts about Open Enrollment in North Carolina: Since Open Enrollment began on Nov. 15, 458,676 North Carolina consumers have selected a plan or were automatically re-enrolled in the Federally Facilitated Marketplace; In the first month of Open Enrollment, 92 percent of North Carolina consumers who selected health insurance plans were determined eligible for financial assistance to lower their monthly premiums; In North Carolina, consumers can choose from 3 issuers in the Marketplace in 2015 – up from 2 in 2014; North Carolina consumers can choose from an average of 26 health plans in their county for 2015 coverage – up from 18 in 2014; 85 percent of North Carolina Marketplace enrollees as of December 2014 could obtain coverage for $100 or less after any applicable tax credits in 2015.

Help is available: Online: Information is available at HealthCare.gov or CuidadoDeSalud.gov.;

By Phone: Marketplace call center representatives are available to help all day, every day at 1-800318-2596. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325. Assistance is available in 150 languages.

The call is free; In person: Consumers can find local help at by visiting: Localhelp.healthcare.gov; To sign up for individual and family coverage, visit: https://www.healthcare.gov/apply-and-enroll/; For more information about Health Insurance Marketplaces, visit: www.healthcare.gov/marketplace.

Gaston Parks Senior Valentine Party set

DiscoverYOU! Hosting a “Mended Hearts” event

Gaston County Senior Center will be having a Senior Valentine Party February 13, 2015.

All Senior Adults aged 55 and over are invited and entertainment will be provided. There will be dancing, refreshments, and lots of door prizes. Come join us for an afternoon of fun and excitement. For more information please contact Gaston County Parks & Recreation Senior Center at 704-922-2170 or visit the County’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 our office at least 5 days before the event.

DiscoverYOU!, 420 East Central Ave, Mt. Holly, will be having a “Mended Hearts” event with Jake Gray on Friday, February 6, 12 noon - 1:00 p.m. Gray, President, Mended Hearts local chapter, will talk about his national and community-based non-profit or-

ganization that has been offering the gift of hope to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers.

The fee is $5.00 and includes cold snacks and refreshments.

Visit discover-you.org to register online or contact DiscoverYOU!, 704.827.6770

Fellowship & Faith

Church Service Directory BELMONT Alexander Memorial Baptist Church 208 South Main Street 704-825-3216 Brotherhood/Sisterhood Wncc.

120 Park Street 704-825-1333 Catawba Heights Baptist Church 311 Belmont Avenue 704-827-8474 Crossroads Wesleyan Church 101 Beaty Rd., Belmont 704-827-8381 Centerview Baptist Church 2300 Acme Road 704-827-2061 East Belmont Baptist Church 501 Catawba Street 704-825-5780 East Belmont Church Of God 320 E. Catawba Street 704- 825-8845 East Belmont Free Will Baptist 909 Edgemont Ave 704-825-5346 East Belmont Presbyterian Church 901 Catawba Street 704-825-8822 Ebenezer United Methodist Church 120 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road 704-827-3366 First Baptist Church 23 N. Central Avenue 704-825-3758 First Foursquare Gospel Church 8 Elizabeth Street 704-825-5811 First Presbyterian Church 102 S. Central Ave 704-825-3357 First Presbyterian-Belmont 112 S. Central Ave 704-829-0668

First United Methodist Church of Belmont 807 South Point Road 704-825-2106 The Pointe 6700 Wilkinson Blvd 704-825-1709 Fresh Anointing Church of God 71 McAdenville Road 704-825-7283 Friendship Baptist Church 5008 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-3276 Full Gospel Church 106 School St 704-827-9621 Gaston Christian Church 5339 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-8252 Goshen Presbyterian Church Roper Street 704-827-6280 Grace Korean Ch Assembly-God 124 Georgia Belle Ave 704-829-1091 Grace Wesleyan Church 6014 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-7959 Henry’s Chapel Ame Zion Church 151 Henry Chapel Rd 704-825-0711 Holy Comforter Lutheran Church 216 N. Main St. 704-825-2483

Mount Moriah Baptist Church 110 Lincoln St. 704-825-2046 Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist 212 South Street 704-825-7269 New Hope Presbyterian Church 4357 S. New Hope Rd., Gastonia 704-824-1697 New Life Baptist Church 201 Oak Trail 704-822-6195 New Mills Chapel Fire Baptized 104 Morning Glory Ave. 704-825-5457 North Belmont Church of God 2316 Acme Rd. 704-827-4092

Message of Love Church 306 Pearl Beaty Dr. 704-827-6500

1951 Stanley Lucia Road • Mt Holly, NC Queen Of The Apostles Catholic Church 503 N. Main Street 704-825-9600

St. Marks United Methodist Church 701 Secrest Ave. 704-825-8175

South Point Baptist Church 124 Horsley Ave.

Stowe Memorial Baptist Church 26 Kee Rd. 704-825-5987

704-825-9516

O’Conner Grove Church Ame Zion 613 N. Main Street 704-825-5576

South Point Freewill Baptist 297 Gaither Rd. 704-825-8045

Unity Baptist Church 1005 Catawba St. 704-825-8730

Park Street United Methodist 120 Park Street 704-825-8480

South Point United Methodist 510 Southpoint Church Rd. 704-825-4019

Upper Room United Pentecostal 1405 Armstrong Ford Rd. 704-825-0604

Power of the Spirit Church 118 School Street 704-827-7071

Springwood Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-827-7801

Will of God Church 513 Woodlawn Ave. 704-827-5185

For information on getting your business listed here call 704-825-0580

Employees of

Hood Memorial Ame Zion Church 455 Sacco St. 704-825-6007 Loves Chapel Presbyterian Church 204 Lincoln St. 704-825-8342

Macedonia Baptist Church

Containers/Trailers Sales & Storage Rental

704-867-2317

VICTORY CHEVROLET 801 W. Charlotte Ave. Mt. Holly, NC

704-827-6705

Page 6

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Banner-News Obituaries (Johnny) Galloway, Jr. Belmont- Anon Johnson (Johnny) Galloway, Jr. passed away peacefully on January 15, 2015.

Born January 1, 1931 he was the only son of the late Dora and Anon Johnson Galloway, Sr. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille Glenn Galloway and four sisters – Jewell Haynes, Helen Percival, Doris Sullivan and Vivian Pendergrass. Johnny was a proud American and veteran of the U.S. Army. He retired from (then) Duke Power Company.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge 627 in Belmont and Park Street United Methodist Church.

His life-long passion was the automobile. His mechanical ability and artistic touch with the paint gun were inherent gifts which paved the way for a lifetime in the garage, where he was truly happiest.

He was actively involved during the early days of NASCAR working with a variety of race teams including cars driven by NASCAR legends Buck Baker and Curtis Turner. In October, 2013 he was honored with a ‘Lifetime Achievement and Hot Rodder of the Year” award by fellow Belmont Hot Rodders.

He is survived by his daughter, Karen Kontoulas and husband Jim of Winston Salem; son, James B. Galloway and wife Christine of Belmont; step-son, Doug Preslar and partner Wayne Shumate of Charlotte; beloved granddaughter Courtney Galloway of Belmont, sister Nancy Carpenter Peach of Great Falls, SC. and companion/caregiver Addie Towery of York County, SC. The family wishes to thank the many friends and caregivers who provided friendship and support, particularly in the final years of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville SC, 29605, Hospice of Gaston County, PO Box 3984, Gastonia, NC 28053, or Park Street United Methodist Church, 120 Park Street, Belmont, NC 28012.

A Celebration of Life was held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 24 at Park Street United Methodist Church, 120 Park Street in Belmont, NC, with Reverends David Hiatt and Charles Gibbons officiating. Inurnment was in the church columbarium.

The family received friends immediately after the service in the Church’s Family Life Center, followed by a luncheon reception.

Masonic Rites were provided by members of Belmont Masonic Lodge #627.

Woodlawn Funeral Home of Mount Holly was in charge of arrangements. Condolence messages may be sent to the

family at woodlawnfuneral.

In 1994 Sister Clara Virorg ginia moved to Florida where she served as a nurse practiSister Clara Virginia Kelly tioner in several clinics, rehabilitation centers and long Belmont- Sister Clara Vir- term care facilities. She ginia Kelly died on January worked for eleven years as a nurse practitioner at Consul23, 2015 ate Health Care in Melbourne, in the MarFlorida. In 2011 after retiring ian Canter from Consulate Health Care at Sacred she learned of the opening a Heart Connew clinic the Space Coast vent, BelVolunteers in Medicine Clinic mont, NC. in Viera, Florida and her pasFollowing a brief illness. Sister was a na- sion for serving the poor and tive of Spencer, NC, the sec- the sick led her to join this ond daughter born to Clara group. She served as Medical and Walter Kelly. Her first Director of the clinic until her association with the Sisters of health began to fail.

During her fifty nine years Mercy was attending Sacred Heart Elementary School in as a Sister of Mercy Sister Salisbury, NC. Little was it Clara Virginia’s ministries foknown that this would prove cused on nursing, healthcare to be only the beginning of and education. Her dedicated a long time relationship with service reflected her commitment to advocating for the the Sisters.

After graduating from Dre- sick, poor and elderly.

Sister Clara Virginia is her High School in Columbia, SC, Sister Clara Virginia en- survived by her sister Frantered Mercy School of Nurs- ces Jane Johnson and several ing, Charlotte, NC, where nephews.

Wake and Visitation was she simultaneously earned a Nursing Degree and an As- at 7 PM, Monday, January 26 sociate of Applied Science at Sacred Heart Convent, Belfrom Sacred Heart College, mont Mass of Christian Burial Belmont, NC. She worked for two years as an RN at Mercy was at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, Hospital when she decided to January 27 at Sacred Heart enter the Community of the Convent, Belmont Memorials may be diSisters of Mercy.

Always eager to improve rected to Sisters of Mercy, herself in her nursing skills 101 Mercy Drive, Belmont, she earned a BS in Nursing NC 28012 or Space Coast from Mount Mercy College, Volunteers in Medicine, 2555 Pittsburgh, PA. She returned Judge Fran Jamaison Way, to Asheville, NC where she Viera, FL 32940.

Arrangements entrusted served as Nursing Supervisor at St. Joseph Hospital. It was with McLean Funeral Direcin this capacity that her gifts tors, Belmont. for innovation, creativity and Scott Christopher Smith teaching began to manifest Stanley- Scott Christothemselves. She very quickly became involved in the es- pher Smith, 31, passed away tablishment of Coronary and on Wednesday January 21, Intensive Care Units at the 2015. He was born in Gashospital and made provision ton County, son of James for the necessary advanced Lee Smith and Loralee Camp training of nursing personnel. Smith.

In addition to his parents, While at St Joseph she he is survived by his daughter began to demonstrate administrative skills as she assisted Madison Brooke Glover.

A memorial service will be in the planning of a new St Joseph Hospital. She also held at a later date.

Condolence messages may served on the hospital’s Board of Directors for thirteen years. be sent to the family at www.

During this time Sister Clara woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home Virginia earned a certificate in Mount Holly, NC is servas a Family Nurse Practitioner at UNC, Asheville. This field ing the family. of nursing provided many James Thomas Jr. new opportunities for service Belmont- James Thomas in the Health care system.

Jr., 80, passed away on TuesSister had a passion to alday January leviate the pain and suffering 20, 2015. of patients and to do all that He was born she could to improve the care in Perth they received. She realized Amboy, New that the level of care that was Jersey, son of administered by caregivers the late James was directly related to their Thomas Sr. preparation in specific fields. and Juila Bartus Thomas. He This understanding led her to was preceded in death by assume a position in the Dea brother Leonard Thomas partment of Geriatrics at East and a sister Marie Rubright.

Carolina School of Medicine.

He was a US Air Force VetIn this role she was involved eran. Mr. Thomas was the in coordinating several trainowner of Temco Inc. He was ing programs; Family Media Deacon at First Presbytecine Residents, the Home rian Church in Gastonia and Visiting Program, the Geriatwas an alumni of University ric Evaluation Clinic and the of South Carolina. He was a Nursing Home Program. staunch member of the Demo-

cratic Party in Gaston County.

He worked for the Board of Elections, was a member of the AAII, and was a former member of the Water Jetting Association. Mr. Thomas was a member of the Belmont Gadabouts. He was a member of his original home church Magyar Reformed Church in New Jersey. He was the first born generation of his family in America. He never met a stranger. He required a lot from people but nothing that he didn’t require of himself.

Mr. Thomas always liked to be in the background. He loved his family. He always helped his employees even during the rough times. He always pulled for the underdog.

He always wanted the best in everything and everybody.

Mr. Thomas is survived by his loving wife Loretta Nannette Thomas “Nan”; two sons Kevin Thomas and wife Samantha of Greenwood, SC and Douglas Thomas of Charlotte; two stepchildren Crystal E. Garrett of Alabama and Derry E. Carver and wife Genie of McDonough, GA; five grandchildren Kaitlyn, Phillip, Christina, Austin and Cameron.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the Presbyterian Women, the Gadabouts, the Robin Johnson Hospice House Staff, the CaroMont 3 south and 6 south nurses, the Courtland Terrace Nurses and Staff and Ray Bramlet, a caring friend and neighbor.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr. Thomas was held 3:00pm Sunday January 25, at the First Presbyterian Church in Gastonia with Rev. Dr. John Frye, Pastor John Stanley and Rev.Lauren Vanacore officiating. The family received friends prior to the service from1:30pm2:45pm in the Church Chapel.

Sisk-Butler

Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 1621 East Garrison Funeral Home Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28054, & Cremation Service Hospice of Gaston County, We offer funeral PO Box 3984 Gastonia NC 28054 or to the Magyar Repackages and we honor formed Church, 175 Somer- existing pre-need funerals. set St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901.

704-629-2255 Condolence messages may www.siskbutler.com be sent to the family at www.

Eddie Pigg, Funeral Director woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served fishing and the UNC Tarheels.

He worked at Freightliner for the family. over 20 years. He was a forDoris E. Withrow mer semi pro baseball player.

His greatest joy was his Mt. Holly- Doris E. With- grandkids. row age 65 passed away at her In addition to his parents, residence Sunday January 18, Mr. Yow is survived by his 2015 after a courageous battle daughter Mandy Nicole Yow against breast cancer. She of Charlotte. His son Derek was born February 3, 1949 Jamison Yow of Mount Holly. in Burke County NC to the A brother Jerry Dean Yow of late Wilby S. Bumgarner and Mount Holly. A sister Sharon Emily E. Ollis. In addition to Renee Nettles of Gastonia; her mother, survivors included two grandchildren Maddison her devoted husband Jerry and Matthew Jr. W. Withrow, daughters Lori A service to celebrate the Foster and Lisa Frisbee. Four life of Mr. Yow was held grandchildren Joseph, Avery, 3:00pm Sunday January 25, Ashley and Evan. Visitation at the Lighthouse Full Goswas held Saturday January pel Church with Rev. Herman 24, 3-5pm at Benson Funeral Winkler officiating. Burial and Cremation Services in followed at Greenwood CemMt. Holly NC. In lieu of flow- etery in Belmont. The famers please send donations in ily received friends one hour her honor to Novant Health prior to the service at the Hospice P.O. Box 33549 church.

Charlotte NC 28233. Online Memorials may be made to condolences may be made at St. Jude’s Children Research, www.bensonfuneralservices. 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, com TN 38105.

Condolence messages James Ruben Yow “Jimmy” may be sent to the family at Mount Holly- James www.woodlawnfuneral.org Ruben Yow “Jimmy”, 52, Woodlawn Funeral Home passed away in Mount Holly, NC served on Monday the family.

January 19, 2015. He Psalm 37:39 was born in Cabar“But the salvation of rus County, the righteous is from the son of Kay Weaver and Joseph Duncan LORD; He is their strength Abernathy. He loved crappie in time of trouble.”

Tyrone Jefferson hosts WSGE’s R&B House Party The weekly R&B House Party show on Since 2006, listeners of WSGE, Gaston College’s on-air radio station, have been invited to WSGE is starting to attract new, enthusiastic lishear “the coolest sounds around” on the weekly teners and Jefferson would like to see the station R&B House Party from 7 to 9 p.m. each Saturday add even more diversity to its eclectic programnight. The hosts of this program, which features ming by including Afro-Cuban, Latin and Salsa old school R&B and Funk music, are Tyrone Jef- into its musical mix. ferson and his wife Toni Tupponce.

In Celebration of Black History Jefferson is the founder of A Month in February, Mr. Jefferson Sign of the Times of the Carolinas, will host a special radio program a non-profit music organization during The R&B House Party dedicated to improving the comsegment on WSGE, “The Heart munity through cultural producAnd Soul Of American Music,” tions and educational programs will highlight over a century in that positively reflect the heritage music each Saturday from 7 – 8 of African Americans. p.m. He will examine the role of An accomplished trombonist, Jefferson is a featured player in music from the black community the six bands that perform under and how it’s impacted American the A Sign of the Times umbrella, culture. The show schedules are: Tyrone Jefferson including big bands, swing and February 7 – Music 1900 to 1925, R&B groups, a bebop ensemble, jazz and R&B February 14 – Music 1925 to 1950, February 21 ensembles, and the ASOTT Jazz and R&B Duo/ – Music 1950 to 1975 and February 28– Music Trio and The Essence of A Sign of The Times, 1975 and beyond. which features Jefferson and his wife Toni, a talAlso, The Multicultural Advisory Committee ented vocalist. will host a Black History Celebration featuring Jefferson is the producer of The State of Black musical “Hits from the Past 50 Years,” with a live Music, a monthly public access television show. performance of the Sign of the Times Band on He is intensely interested in spreading awareness of music and sounds from the African Diaspora Wednesday, February 11, 2015. This event is free and in exploring the commonalities of Black and and open to the public.

For more information about A Sign of the Brown people through their rich heritage of music Times, visit www.ASignoftheTimes.org. and dance.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 7

Banner-News Law Enforcement Report

Belmont police seeking robbery suspects The Belmont Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying three suspects involved in a felonious larceny that occurred at 9am on January 3, 2015 at Times Turn Around located at 6751 Wilkinson Blvd. in Belmont.

On that date three suspects allegedly came into the store to break into the store office. The trio worked together. Two suspects stayed in the front of the store and distracted a clerk. While the clerk was distracted the third suspect went into the back office area. That suspect then broke into the manager’s office utilizing a screw driver.

When the office was broken into an alarm went off and the clerk confronted the suspect.

The suspects then fled. An undisclosed amount of money was stolen After the larceny the trio got into a silver Jeep Grand Cherokee with Tennessee plates and went west on Wilkinson Blvd.

CCTV footage was obtained. The suspects clothing appears to be identifiable. The suspect’s descriptions are as follows: Suspect #1 Suspect #2 Suspect #3 Black Male Black Male Black Male 5’10” 6’ 5’8” Stocky Build Thin Build Slim Build Plaid Hat Red and White Hat Dark Knit Hat Sunglasses on Top Blue or Grey Jacket Dark Jacket/Light Button Up Shirt Dark Jacket Blue Jeans Blue Jeans Dark Jeans White Tennis Shoes Anyone with information as to the identity of the suspects is urged to call Detective A. Buchanon of the Belmont Police Department at 704-825-3792.

Citizens’ Police Academy set for February The Gaston County Police Department is currently taking applications for the 44th Session of its Citizens’ Police Academy. This Citizens’ Police Academy will be presented in eight sessions to be held on Saturday mornings from 9:00am to 11:00am. Class dates for this session are February 21, 28, March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 11, 18.

The Citizens’ Police Academy will introduce participants to the various functions of the County Police Department topics to include Crime Scene Search, Vice, Criminal Investigations, Recruiting, Emergency Response Team, Marine Unit, Crime Analysis, K-9, Patrol, Communications Division, Animal Control

Division, School Resource and the Hazardous Devices Team.

Participation in the Citizen Police Academy is free and is open to adults and high school juniors and seniors.

Applications can be picked up at County Police Headquarters located at 420 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia or online through the department’s website at www.gastoncountypolice. org. Applications will be accepted through February 18, 2015.

For more information, contact Sergeant Josh Hamlin at 704-866-3320 or email at jhamlin@ gcps.org

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MISSING PERSON REPORT: Elmer Alexander Guzman Castillo of Belmont On 01/15/2015 the Gaston County Police Department received a report of a missing person, Elmer Alexander Guzman Castillo, age 24 of Belmont, NC. Castillo was last seen walking away from 106 Riverloop Rd Belmont, NC on 01/14/2015 at approximately 9:00 am.

Castillo is 5’8” and 150 lbs and has short dark hair and a pierced right ear. Castillo recently moved to this area from El Sal-

vador and has friends and family in the Charlotte and Belmont areas.

Anyone with information about the location of Elmer Alexander Guzman Castillo is asked to contact the Gaston County Police Department at (704) 8663320.

For further information contact Sergeant Myron Shelor of the Gaston County Police Department at (704) 866-3332.

Nearly half of senior citizen hospitalizations can be prevented As Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland counties plunges into the heart of the winter season, the risk of local seniors being hospitalized spikes to its highest of the year, despite the fact that almost half of these hospitalizations (49%) can be avoided with proper prevention.

According to a new study of nurses who work primarily with seniors, January, February and March are the height of hospitalization season for seniors due primarily to respiratory infections, such as flu or pneumonia, and other winter hazards.

The critical factor in reducing this spike in area hospitalizations this winter is family involvement. Nearly all nurses (99%) surveyed say that the role families play in keeping seniors out of the hospital is just as important as the role of the medical community.

Knowing that a hospital stay can actually lead to more serious health declines, local senior care experts are mounting an informational campaign to educate families and decrease hospitalizations so that seniors may remain at home and healthy year-round.

“Keeping seniors safe at home and out of the hospital starts with family intervention,” said Roy Goforth, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care® franchise serving Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland counties. “It could be as simple as making sure your parents are using assistive equipment to avoid falls or suggesting they see a doctor for any new aches or symptoms.”

The most common action by seniors that puts them at risk of hospitalization is waiting

too long to seek medical attention, according to the nurses surveyed. They estimate that nearly half of all seniors (47%) put off medical appointments or have problems accessing medical care.

“Not following doctor’s orders also puts seniors at risk,” Goforth said. “Families play a critical role in making sure they fully understand and comply with medical instructions.”

To help families identify and act on potential warning signs, Home Instead Senior Care is offering The Five Ways to Prevent Senior Hospitalizations guide, that was developed with Dr. Carolyn Clevenger, incoming president of the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association. The free guide includes information about common risk factors and the steps that families can take to help ensure a healthy lifestyle.

The recommendations include: Make sure the senior is taking preventative health measures – like getting a flu shot or shingles vaccination; Encourage the use of assistive equipment; Monitor and/or assist with medications; Attend doctor’s visits and be a medical advocate for your senior; Assess your senior’s balance; Make sure your senior is able to safely drive; Check in on aging loved ones regularly.

Additional free resources can be found at www.preventseniorhospitalizations.com. To obtain a copy of the Five Ways to Prevent Senior Hospitalizations guide, please call 704-864-5500.

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Page 8

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Banner-News Sports

Red Raiders redemption, beat East Gaston 59-42

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

No one wants to jinx the Red Raiders basketball program but if your a South Point fan you have to be impressed. The Red Raiders appear to be on the move. South Point has won 4 out of their last 5 match ups. The latest was very sweet. In a game full of rivalry and excitement South Point beat East Gaston 59-42.

The win was big. But to know how big you have to look at the last time East Gaston and South Point squared off on the court. Last December 16th South Point was embarrassed in a lopsided 70-41 shellacking at the hands of the East Gaston Warriors.

That was a tough loss. South Point looked like they were a bottle of soda that had lost all of it’s fizz. The way the game went some wondered if the Red Raiders even remembered that they were playing their arch nemesis.

The Red Raiders remembered. They just weren’t going to lose their heads. Since that loss South Point has been working to improve all aspects of their game. They wanted the win. They were just going to play smart to get it. They were going to focus on playing solid defense and team work.

“Things went very well,” head coach Kody Kubbs said. “We are going in the right direction.”

The nature of the December blow out was not lost on coach Kubbs or the team. They remembered what happened.

“The first time we played we were flat,” Kubbs said. “We never got into the game.”

The game started out with each team trying to press the other. No one had a clear edge. At the half every thing was tied up 25-25.

One thing that showed was the way the Red Raiders played defense. Last December the Warriors scored at will. The South Point defense was as porous as a strainer. But this time around the Red Raider defense stiffened up.

“We lacked intensity that time,” Kubbs said. “The last 2 to 3 weeks we have had some good practices. We are playing good defense.”

As the game wore on the South Point defense held. In the 4th period the offense kicked it in high gear and blistered the Warriors for 25 points. That burst proved to be the difference maker.

Brandon Reeves ignited the offense with 21 points. 15 of those came in the explosive 4th period. Ryan Williams continued to be solid adding 11 points and 5 assists.

Other players stood up and helped secure the win for South Point. J.T. Starr had 10 points and 5 boards. Ben Washam made an impact as well with 4 points 3 assists and 3 steals.

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 FINAL

South Point-East Gaston East Gaston South Point 17 15 8 10 6 9 11 25 42 59

South Point player Ryan Williams is seen sinking a jumper in last week’s game against East Gaston. The Red Raiders came out on top 59-42.

Photos by Lydia Julen

South Point’s JT Starr fights for a rebound in last week’s game against East Gaston.

Lady Red Raider Asia Jackson gets two more points in last week’s contest against a tough East Gaston team. South Point lost by a score of 62-39.

Photo by Lydia Julen

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 9

Banner-News Sports

South Point silences Storm 77-55

By JohnWilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

Momentum is a good thing to have. Right now the Red Raider men’s basketball team seems to have the wind at their back and are building it.

In a solid display of disciplined team play the South Point Red Raiders scored a big 77-55 win over the Stuart Cramer Storm.

The momentum South Point is building hasn’t come easy. It is the result of hard work and team discipline. Head coach Kody Kubbs has been pushing his team to focus on team work and defense. The players are hearing the call.

“It was a game we needed.” Kubbs said.

“We played pretty well. We are going in the right direction.”

To get the win South Point played a complete game. At the half the Red Raiders were up 35-19. South Point was solid in all 4 periods of play scoring 18,17,17, and 25 points in each period. The Storm never had any real chance to close the gap.

One of the things that is most impressive is how the Red Raiders are handling rebounding. South Point is with out a doubt showing some muscle under the boards. In a nut shell when South Point owns the backboards and our rebounds their opponent they usually win. the emphasis on team rebounding is one of the things South Point has been working on.

“We were getting crushed,” coach Kubbs said referring to rebounding. “About 2 weeks ago we got on it. We spent more time on it. It has paid off the last two weeks.”

Leading the Red Raider charge against the Storm was standout junior Brandon Reeves.

Reeves scored 19 points, had 10 rebounds and 8 assists.

“He was phenomenal.” Kubbs said.

One surprise this year for South Point has been the play of freshman Blake Zieske.

Zieske is showing a knack for the ability to sink the ball from anywhere on the perimeter.

In the Cramer match up Zieske was the Red Raiders top scorer with 21 points and 6 steals.

“It’s nice to see him hit his stride.” Kubbs added.

Ryan Williams also had a good performance. Williams had 10 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists.

South Point-Cramer South Point Red Raiders Stuart Cramer Storm Q1 18 11 Q2 17 22 Q3 17 22 Q4 25 14 FINAL 77 55

Abbey womens basketball beats Converse

South Point player Ryan Williams rounds the corner against Stuart Cramer’s Scott Moore. The Raiders won 77 to 55.

Photo by Bill Ward

The Belmont Abbey women’s basketball team never trailed and beat Converse 63-40 last week in Spartanburg. The win gave the Crusaders a .500 win record as it improves to 9-8 overall and 5-6 in Conference Carolinas play.

The victory broke a six game losing streak.

All Crusader team members played as Belmont Abbey took control of the game near halftime and scored eight of the final 11 points to carry a 27-18 lead into the break.

In the second half, the Abbey outscored Converse 21-7 in the first 11 minutes to move ahead by 22 at 47-25.

The lead was as as high as 25 points, coming on a Kerri Snipes jumper with 2:57 left that increased the lead to 25 at 58-33.

Belmont Abbey shot 57 percent in the second half after totaling just 34 percent in the first half. The Abbey shot 45 percent for the game but was just 2-9 from three point range and 7-13 from the free throw line.

McKenzie Owen totaled a double double with game-highs in points (15) and rebounds (11). She added two steals and two blocked shots. Gabrielle Bethel added 10 points and nine rebounds.

East Gaston Warriors

Stuart -Cramer Storm

Player of the Week

South Point Red Raiders

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 10

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Banner-News Sports

Stuart Cramer player Haley Bourhill goes for the ball in the game against South Point. Haley and her teammates won by a score of 37-32.

South Point Lady Raiders struggle in pair of losses

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

The South Point woman’s basketball team continues to struggle. The Lady Raiders have not had a win since their big 42-41 win over East Gaston on December 16th. In the their last two games South Point lost to Stuart Cramer 37-32 and to East Gaston 69-39.

In the Cramer game head coach Scott Tudor summed it up candidly.

“It was ugly,” Tudor said. “It was a regression game. We just came out flat.”

Against Cramer the Lady Raiders game out sluggish. They only scored four points in the 1st period. The Lady Storm didn’t fare much better. In a slow first half South Point went into the locker room with an 18-14 lead.

In the second half things went from bad to worst. Cramer outscored the Lady Raiders 23-14. South Point just couldn’t get it together. They were not able to mount any kind of consistent offensive or defensive effort.

“We didn’t execute,” Tudor said. “We missed easy shots. It was a disappointment.”

Asia Jackson was South Point’s high scorer with 11 points.

East Gaston -South Point Game Review When tip off came for the South Point, East Gaston rematch the two programs were in two different phases. East Gaston had been building momentum and was riding a 4 game losing streak. South Point is still trying to figure out how to salvage their season.

East Gaston hit South Point hard right at tip off and never slacked off. South Point was out scored in 3 out of 4 periods.

“We played hard,” Coach Tudor said.

“Just couldn’t keep up with their speed.”

Led by Raven Brooks and Brooklyn Armstrong the Lady Warrior got some pay back for the December loss to South Point. Brooks finished the night with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Armstrong had 17 points 6 rebounds and 4 assists.

As lopsided as the score looked South Point refused to throw in the towel. They kept playing and never gave up.

“The score doesn’t reflect how well we played. “Tudor added.

Alli Jackson and Abby Henry each dumped in 11 points apiece to lead the Lady Raiders in scoring.

Stuart Cramer’s Lexi Trull battles South Point’s Asia Jackson in last week’s game where the Storm beat the Raiders 37-32.

Photos by Bill Ward

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Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 11

Belmont council tackles a ton of topics at retreat

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

The long delayed skate park was one of the items discussed during the Belmont city council retreat. The park is still just a sign and a vacant lot beside Belmont PD. Photo by Alan Hodge

Even though it was officially termed a “retreat” the recent Belmont city council planning meeting held at the U.S. National Whitewater Center was more like a strategic advance towards a gaggle of 2015 goals. The meeting covered a ton of of topics including a long overdue skateboard park, street

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paving, wayfaring signage downtown, fund revenues, capital improvements, housing, and the biggie- regional growth and how it impacts Belmont.

The information pack that the council and other officials worked from was around 200 pages long.

City manager Barry Webb had this to say concerning the retreat.

“Overall, I would say that the council retreat was very productive and generated a lot of good dialog among the elected officials,” he said.

“There were several topic areas covered that resulted in some specific objectives for follow-up during 2015. For example, in the area of Parks & Recreation programs, the council asked that the Parks & Recreation Citizens Advisory Board look again at its current prioritization for capital projects or purchases, specifically as that prioritization would currently reflect on a gymnasium, a new bus for departmental programs, and a skatepark. Also in this same area, there was discussion about better branding our various events and festivals to create more identify for each one.

Under the topic of Economic Development, there was a stated objective of having the Main Street Advisory Board come back to council with a recommendation on the use of $20,000 budgeted this year for economic development use.

Another major topic dealt with the City’s street improvement program. Here, the council would like staff to develop plans for a largescale paving program (up to $1,000,000 worth of work) that would be bid at one time and paid back over a period of several years with revenues dedicated to that purpose. Part of this will include discussion with financing sources on potential options for moving forward on this and several other

major capital projects.”

The skateboard park was also on the mind of council member Martha Stowe.

“We continue to discuss the skateboard park,” she said. “That was promised by the previous council 9-10 years ago after the death of a young person. I am continuing to advocate for this to happen even though I was not a member of council at that time. I see a number of skateboarders from the middle school and the high school. Some people want to call it my park which is not the case. We do need it and there is $50,000 earmarked for parks which is supposed to be used. The retreat went extremely well.

Our group has become very cohesive.”

Council member Ryan Schrift had this take on the meeting.

“Overall I was optimistic by the upcoming opportunities for the City of Belmont,” he said. “This year will be significant as we break ground or will be moving forward on several large projects that have been on the City’s list prior to me taking office such as the soccer field, River Park, and Public Works Facility. Getting the ball rolling on the parks this year will open up a discussion to reexamine our priorities going forward to hopefully include road paving, infrastructure improvements, and economic development.”

Mayor Charlie Martin homed in on the transportation aspect of the meeting, especially relating to increased development down South Point Road.

“We have got to find a new way into Mecklenburg County,” he said.

In the near future, Webb will be drawing up a plan of attack on several of the topics that were ruminated on during the meeting.

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Page 12

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Banner-News School Happenings Pageants to benefit Miss Gastonia Scholarship Fund

Local students take part in Disney Performing Arts Program Members of W. C. Friday Middle School Concert Band and Choir became stars of their own Disney show when they entertained resort guests at Waterside Stage at Downtown Disney. The groups traveled from Dallas, N.C. to the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to take part in the Disney Performing Arts Program.

The band, under the direction of Cindy Owens and James Owens, Jr. put on an exceptional performance as they entertained hundreds of Downtown Disney guests on Jan. 16. This was their sixth visit to the resort with the Disney Performing Arts Program.

The choir, under the direction of Heather Pasour, enter-

tained guests with their harmonic performance on Jan. 17. This was the group’s first visit to the resort with the Disney Performing Arts Program.

Vocal, instrumental and dance ensembles from all around the world apply to perform each year as a part of Disney Performing Arts at both the Disneyland Resort and the Walt Disney World Resort. Once selected, they are given the opportunity to perform at the resort for an international audience of theme park guests. Millions of performers have graced the stages of the Disney Parks in the more than 25-year history of the program.

Miss Gastonia 2015 Christina Benedict and Miss Gaston County 2015 Mackenzie Church are making plans to host Valentine and Easter beauty pageants for girls ages 0-19 years.

The Valentine pageant is Saturday, February 14 and the Easter pageant is Saturday, March 28. Both pageants begin at 11:00 a.m. at the Cherryville Community Building, 106 South Jacob Street, Cherryville.

The pageants are fundraisers for the Miss Gastonia scholarship fund. This year’s Miss Gastonia Scholarship Pageant is scheduled for Saturday, July 25. Benedict and Church are working now to raise money for the scholarships that will be awarded to the contestants who compete for Miss Gastonia and Miss Gaston County 2016.

Benedict is the daughter of Stephen and Elena Benedict and a student at Wake Forest University. Church is the daughter of Eddie and Daria Church and a student at UNCChapel Hill. They will represent the Gaston region this June in the Miss North Carolina Scholarship Pageant.

For more information, call (704) 827-7277 or visit www. missgastoniapageant.com.

Community colleges join collaborative for a global economy

Gaston Christian crowns 2015 Homecoming Queen Gaston Christian High School ended this year’s Homecoming/Spirit Week with the crowning of their 2015 Homecoming Queen Jena Loftin. Loftin, center, is photographed, from left, with Mary Madison Goforth, Anna Long, Kristina Bridges, Tiffany Cobb and Katelyn Smith. Also during Spirit Week the high school collected over $500.00 in contributions for the Faith, Hope and Love Orphanage in Honduras.

Contributed Photo

Wofford College announces Dean’s List Dr. Dennis M. Wiseman, provost of Wofford College, has announced Dean’s List students for the Fall 2014 semester, including: Garrett Franklin Heath of Gastonia; Andrea Maria Liberatore of Belmont; Katherine Chase Moore of Gastonia; Dana Ashley Nobles of Belmont.

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must be enrolled for at least 12 semester hours of graded courses and attain a semester grade point average of 3.6 or

higher.

Wofford College, established in 1854, is an independent liberal arts college of 1,650 students in Spartanburg, S.C. Wofford ranks 4th nationally in the percentage of undergraduates receiving credit for study abroad. Home to one of the nation’s 280 Phi Beta Kappa chapters, Wofford’s historic 175-acre campus is recognized as a national arboretum. Wofford is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

The presidents of 10 community colleges in the Charlotte Region, including Gaston College, have reached an agreement to form a new partnership aimed at making the region a hub for global commerce. In addition to Gaston, other community colleges from North and South Carolina forming the collaborative are Catawba Valley, Central Piedmont, Cleveland, Mitchell, Northeastern Tech, Rowan-Cabarrus, South Piedmont, Stanly, and York Tech.

Formerly known as the Charlotte Regional Workforce Development partnership, the Regional Collaborative for a Global Economy and its members will seek to lead the region in its economic vision to make the Charlotte metro region a bigger player on a global scale.

One of the critical factors necessary for the success of this vision is supporting the efforts of Gaston and Lincoln counties in becoming more globally competitive through

the continued development of a highly skilled workforce.

“The objective of the newly established Collaborative is to bring together employers, policymakers, economic developers and innovative leaders from throughout the region in the development of a comprehensive strategy to increase career opportunities by insuring that the workforce of Gaston and Lincoln counties and the region as a whole are among the best trained in the world,” said Dr. Patricia Skinner, President of Gaston College.

A Global Competitiveness summit is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18 on the Harris campus of Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte. At this summit, regional policy makers and community and business leaders are invited to consider the region’s economic strengths and how to capitalize on them.

For more information on the summit and how to register, visit www.cpcc.edu/global.

North Greenville University names local students to Dean’s List North Greenville University has recognized two local students for academic accomplishments by naming them to the Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester. Students are Bailey Elizabeth Stewart and James Scott Tyson, both of Belmont. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must maintain a 3.5 grade point average while taking a minimum of 12 hours.

North Greenville University, located in

Tigerville, S.C. at the foothills of Glassy Mountain, is a co-educational liberal arts institution which provides opportunities for higher education in a biblically sound Christcentered environment. North Greenville University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Baccalaureate Degrees, Master’s Degrees and Doctorate Degrees in 35 degree programs.

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Thursday, January 29, 2015

Page 13

Banner-News School Happenings

Youth volunteers prepare students for disaster The Blue Ridge Piedmont Gastonia Office recently educated W.A. Bess Elementary School third grade students how to prepare for disasters.

The Pillowcase Project curriculum is structured by three core principles: Learn, Practice and Share. Students learned about hazards, how to prepare for emergencies, enhance coping skills, practice what they have learned and share their knowledge with friends and family. The program emphasizes the importance of developing an emergency communications plan, fire evacuation plan and emergency contact cards.

The program also teaches students how to create their own emergency supply kits by packing essential items in a pillowcase for

easy transport during an emergency. Students will have the opportunity to decorate and personalize their pillowcases.

“We are thrilled to bring The Pillowcase Project to Gaston County schools. The program gives students the opportunity to learn about the science behind various hazards and the importance of preparedness in a fun and interactive way,” said Suzan Anderson, executive director. “The hands-on activities will also help to build confidence so that kids are prepared to take action during an emergency.”

For more information about The Pillowcase Project, contact: Suzan Anderson at suzan.anderson@redcross.org.

American Red Cross Youth Volunteer, Jordan Williams, hands out pillowcases to the students at W.A. Bess Elementary School.

Contributed Photo

Belmont Abbey grad named as WIX brand manager

For the seventh year in a row, Gaston Day School’s literary and arts magazine, Blutopia, has been recognized by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) in their Program to Recognize Excellence in Student Literary Magazines (PRESLM). The 2014 magazine has been given the “Highest Award,” the most prestigious designation the NCTE bestows on participants. Magazines throughout the country are judged and then awards are presented by state.

Blutopia was the only magazine in North Carolina to earn this level of distinction. Blutopia staff includes Hannah Newcombe. Porter Yelton, Mason Farmer, Maddie Deely, and advisor Lori Davis. Hannah lives in Gastonia and is the daughter of Jennifer and Artie Newcombe, Porter is the son of Bob Yelton in Shelby, Mason is the son of Meg and Scott Farmer of Gastonia and Maddie is the daughter of Merry and Mike Deely of Gastonia. Lori Davis lives in Rock Hill and teaches at GDS. See in this photo are Yelton, Farmer and Lori Davis.

Contributed Photo

With an eye on global growth and innovation, WIX® Filters, a global manufacturer of filtration products, has named Jennifer Gibson as brand manager.

Gibson received her bachelor’s degree in motorsports management, the first program of its kind, from Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C. She is currently a member of the Women’s Car Care Association as well as the Automotive Communication Council.

Gibson previously served as brand manager for CARQUEST Filters, a brand WIX serviced for 25 years. During her five-year tenure on the CARQUEST brand, she managed the development and implementation of strategic marketing programs designed to drive brand awareness and sales revenue.

Jennifer Gibson Among her accomplishments, Gibson successfully implemented a marketing promotion that resulted in monthly double digit increases for the CARQUEST brand during its execution. She also served as special projects manager for WIX’s filtration division and supervised the introduction of a new product line that resulted in 53 SKUs.

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5 ROOM HOUSE for RENT near North School on Lackey Street in KM. NO PETS. Gas heat. 2/3 BR, 1 BA. $450/mth + deposit. References required. 704-734-0951 after 4 pm. (1/28/15)

LOTS IN GASTON, CLEVELAND, RUTHERFORD and CHEROKEE CO., some with water & septic. Credit no problem, owner will finance with low DP. Call Bryant Realty at 704-567-9836 or www. bryantrealty.org.

(1/07,14,21,28/15)

David Baptist Church in Kings Mountain is looking for a part-time church secretary.

Candidate should be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, as well as QuickBooks.

Experience with accounting and payroll is preferred.

Please email resume to: davidbaptistchurch@gmail. com. (1/21,28, 2/04,11,18 & 25)

MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTAIN-Prices starting at $100/week. Call 704-7394417 or (evening) 704-7391425. (tfn)

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Classified Deadline Friday 12 NOON

Legals 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)

Page 14

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Scenes of a sunny day...

Yanelli Banuelos and her mom Adela were taking a walk and checking out the Fighting Yank statue.

Chris and Rhonda Atchley were strolling the sunny sidewalk in downtown Belmont.

Breakfast at Cherubs started the sunny day for Belinda Maier and Cindy Buckley.

Matthew Haskett and friend Austin Ross were soaking up some rays and train-watching.

Virginia, Colin, and mom Sara Ernst were having fun in the sun at Stowe Park with their friend Abby.

Francesca and Billy Armstrong enjoyed a nice sunny picnic lunch.

Photos by Alan Hodge

Duke Energy’s Helping Home Fund now available As many as 4,000 households may be eligible for an energy makeover, courtesy of a new Duke Energy program now available across the state.

The Helping Home Fund, a $20 million program authorized through an agreement with the N.C. Public Staff and approved by the N.C. Utilities Commission during the 2013 Duke Energy Progress and Duke Energy Carolinas rate cases, is now available for income-qualified Duke Energy customers in North Carolina.

The program is administered by the N.C. Community Action Association (NCCAA) and offered through 21 local agencies across the state. As part of the agreement, each Duke Energy utility in the state will distribute $10 million through the program.

Duke Energy’s Helping Home Fund provides income-qualified customers with up to $10,000 in energy efficiency upgrades at no cost to the customer. Funds for the program will come from

Duke Energy shareholders, and not through customer rates.

Information on participating agencies and how to apply for funds can be found at www.duke-energy.com/helpinghomefund.

“Helping all of our customers save energy and money is very important to Duke Energy,” said Paul Newton, Duke Energy state president – North Carolina. “These funds will provide energysaving measures at no charge to customers who may not otherwise be able to afford them. Duke Energy’s Helping Home Fund will bring real help to our customers, and real benefits for years to come.”

The program is available to customers who meet U.S. Department of Energy criteria as being income-qualified, with household income at 200 percent of federal poverty levels.

Measures may include weatherization upgrades, heating and cooling system replacements, appliance replacements, and health

and safety upgrades to customers’ homes. An energy assessment of the home will help to determine which measures are most appropriate.

Customers will also receive information on their home’s energy use and strategies to save energy.

In addition to assistance provided through Duke Energy’s Helping Home Fund, the company provides weatherization upgrades at no cost to income-qualified customers through the Neighborhood Energy Saver program and Residential Neighborhood Program.

Duke Energy’s Energy Neighbor Fund and Share the Warmth programs have also provided millions of dollars in assistance to help pay energy and heating costs for thousands of customers across the state.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, January 29, 2015

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