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Thursday, February 5, 2015
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Thursday, February 5, 2015
Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce 55th Annual Banquet By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
The Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce held its 55th annual banquet and awards event last Thursday. The gala affair took place in the Mount Holly Municipal Complex and was attended by a large crowd of business owners, entrepreneurs, bossmen/bosswomen, and other luminaries. The dinner was a smorgasbord of good eats and libations. The sound of tinkling plates and silverware blended with plenty of chatting and peals of laughter to give the scene a merry aspect. The chicken and stew beef disappeared as if by magic. Fluffy and chocolaty desserts followed suit. See more CHAMBER page 3
Last year's Men Who Cook event was a hit and this year's feast will be just as great. Photo by Alan Hodge Bill Ingram (left) with Wells Fargo Bank is seen presenting the Montcross Area Chamber Business of the Year Award to CaroMont Health President/CEO Doug Luckett at last week's 55th annual banquet. Photo by Alan Hodge
It's time to combat cankerworms By Leigh Ford Last spring and early summer the oak trees in front of Smith Cemetery were literally covered with cankerworms, eating the oak leaves, then dropping down and stripping the leaves from the knock out roses that are planted in front and just about everything else in sight. So I vowed to do something to try to get rid of them.
Sevin Dust worked great if you covered the leaves of the vegetation you wanted to protect before they ate those leaves, but I read up on how to rid or at least reduce the number of cankerworms you might have next year. Female cankerworms in the spring burSee more CANKERWORMS page 2
19th Annual Men Who Cook Event On February 22 at 12:15 pm in the Grand Hall of the Mount Holly Municipal Complex the Rotary Club of Mount Holly will host the 19th Annual Men Who Cook. This event features some of the finest male “chefs” in Gaston County. From elected officials and Rotarians to restauranteurs and members of the com-
munity who simply enjoy cooking, men and women gather to offer samples of vegetables, meats, soups, and desserts. This annual event is the Club’s primary fundraiser for the scholarships it provides for local high school seniors each May. All of the proceeds from the sale are used to fund the scholarships
awarded by the club. Annually over two hundred people gather to sample the food offerings presented at Men Who Cook. The dishes have ranged in variety from the humble, yet delicious, grilled cheese sandwich to more unusual dishes like venison stew or the annual favorite, homemade ice cream. Diners go See more MEN page 2
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Thursday, February 5, 2015
CANKERWORMS from page 1 row into the ground and stay there until they mature. Once they come out of the ground, they have a 4 day life cycle and race to climb the trees and lay their eggs before they expire. They also don’t have a mouth, so they can’t eat which probably leads to their short life cycle. If you can catch the worms on their way up the trees, then you break their life cycle. Experts recommend to wrap the trees in late November after all of the leaves have fallen and to leave them there until late February. You need to wrap your trees and staple the wraps to the bark, then apply a sticky product called Tanglefoot to the bands. The wraps need to have a thin layer of insulation underneath to fill in the gaps in the tree bark to prevent the worms from going underneath the wrap. It sounds simple enough and this is where the adventure begins. I first learned nobody sells tree bands or wraps. Then you can’t buy a thin layer of insulation. And it’s difficult to find staples long enough to go through the wraps, insulation and attach to the tree bark. I researched on line and found the product called Tanglefoot, and figured they would also sell the tree bands. They sold a product called a Tree Wrap, which sounds like the thing you need, but when you get it, you can quickly see that it’s not going to be what you thought it was going to be. Too thin and flimsy, more like a thick crepe paper. Back to internet, and I found some YouTube videos that show you how to wrap the trees and one suggested getting a roll of roofing paper, and cutting it to the lengths and widths you needed. Thick
enough, water resistant and allowed you to evenly spread the sticky Tanglefoot product. I decided to try that and decided it was the right product to wrap the tree. Next was finding a thin layer of insulation. I went to Lowes, and the thinnest I could find was 3.5 inches. My first attempt was cutting the insulation with paper backing into 4” by 5’ strips and that didn’t work. The insulation was too thick and .5” staples were not long enough. So I decided that I would split the insulation and have two thinner strips of insulation in 4” by 5’ lengths, with the paper backing removed. So now I had the roofing paper and insulation, both in 4” by 5’ sections. Went back to Lowes and purchased a can of 3M Spray Adhesive. Now I sprayed the roofing paper and carefully laid the insulation onto the sticky surface and finally had something I could work with. Went back to the cemetery and within three hours, I had wrapped all 10 of the trees and applied the Tanglefoot product. Now it was time to let nature do the rest. I checked at least once every week, but nothing on the wraps except an occasional leaf. When Christmas Leigh Ford points with glee to the hundreds of cankerworms trapped on got here, I was beginning to get discouraged.- maybe I sticky strips he applied to trees at the Smith Cemetery off South Point Rd. have missed them. Maybe I should have put the bands up Photo by Alan Hodge in mid-November. Checked again around New Year’snothing. Checked again around the 6th or 7th of January, are stuck to the wraps were probably there to feed on the worms, and met still no worms. I was really discouraged. I missed a their demise as well. couple of weeks and went over to check them yesterday Experts suggest leaving the bands up until the end of February as the the 22nd, and bonanza! Sometime between the begin- worms can mature at different times and can come out of the ground at difning of the second week and end of the third week in ferent times. I’m planning to replace a couple of the mostly covered bands January is when they finally emerged. The moths that with new ones next week to test that theory.
Vinegar Valentine event
MEN from page 1 through the long line of offerings and take a sample of as many dishes as they would like. It is a rare thing to have one of our guests leave feeling hungry. Men Who Cook is a time to gather and enjoy food and fellowship while helping contribute to a worthy cause. Since 1981 the Club has been fortunate to hand out at least one, if not two, scholarships to deserving East Gaston High School seniors who plan to further their education after high school. The scholarships have ranged in amounts from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending on the success of
its fundraisers and the generosity of local donors. The students awarded the one time scholarship must show that they are active in their community, demonstrate a need, and provide proof of academic standing. Without the success of Men Who Cook, the Rotary Club of Mount Holly would not be able to continue this long-standing tradition. If you would like to come and join the Club on February 22 you can purchase a ticket from any member of the Rotary Club of Mount Holly or at one of the following locations: Michael, Lopez, & Anders, PLLC, 124 W. Catawba
Ave., Mt. Holly; Steve K. Sisk, CPA, P.A., 132 E. Central Ave., Mt. Holly; Robert D. Black Insurance Services, 108 W. Catawba Ave.; or Payne Law, PLLC 111 W. Central Ave, Suite 206, Mt. Holly. Additionally, if you like to cook, have a restaurant, bakery or catering service or are otherwise interested in being one of our “chefs” featured at the event, please contact Brooke Shepherd Lopez, at 704-827-5897 or check us out on Facebook: Mount Holly Rotary Club. Come to cook or eat…Either way, come and join in on the fun.
Widowed Group events The Widowed Group of Greater Gaston Area has set the following events at the Gaston County Resource Center, 1303 Dallas-Cherryville Hwy. Thursday February 12th - 5:30pm Bring a prepared dish from your favorite eatery to share with others. Listen to relationship counselors, Pastors Linda and Jack McHenry as they present their program, “Life is Like a Box of Chocolates”.There is no admission charge and the general public is invited. Thursday February 12th - 7:00pm. Immediately following the 5:30 program come and take shag lessons in the same building. The Widowed Group of the Greater Gaston Area is sponsoring beginners shag lessons. The cost is $25.00 per person and will be at the same place and at the same time every Thursday for seven weeks. Gail and Bobby Brown are instructors. These sessions are open to the general public - singles or couples. You may register the first night. Saturday February 21st - 6:00pm. Dinner-dance. Admission is $10.00.The dinner is included in the admission price. Come and dance to the music of King's Mountain's own "Crimsom Rose". They have two female vocalists in the band. The general public is invited.
The Gaston County Museum of History in Dallas will host a free “Vinegar Valentine” on Thursday, February 12th, from 6:00PM– 7:00PM. We have all received sweet Valentines before, but can you imagine receiving a bitter one? Come learn about the odd practice of sending Vinegar Valentines, a popular activity
at the turn of the 20th century. See some classic examples and learn how you can renew an old tradition, if you dare! This program is by reservation only. Please contact Jason Luker, Programs Coordinator, at 704-922-7681 ex 105 or at Jason.Luker@ gastongov.com to reserve your seat. Space is limited.
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.
“What Do Buyers Think of the Asking Price for Your House?” NO SHOWINGS … What’s going on? When there are no showings for a property being properly advertised, it is often because informed buyers are just “not buying” the price and have decided to look at the competition. Yes … often, unless there are some unique or unusual circumstances affecting the property, NO Showings is a clear indication the price may be too far above the market for a buyer to give the property any serious consideration. SHOWING LIKE CRAZY … but STILL NO OFFERS? Yes, this too can be an indicator the price is not correct. Your property may be in a perfect location, great curb appeal and the layout works great but still no offers. Buyers are seeing your competition too. Most often, homes with the strongest competitive market price attracts buyers, leaving the competition out in the cold. Lots of showings with NO OFFERS are a clear indication the property is not competing and is losing buyers to the competition! Time is money, so why not get a competitive price review and a marketing plan in place to find the best price sooner rather than later. Why continue paying mortgage(s), utilities and taxes on a property you do not want or need because a high price is pushing away serious buyers? Why spend your time and money on this property when you want or need to be somewhere else? A Home Market Review with a brief marketing plan presentation takes less than an hour. It’s great information even if you are not interested in selling today. For more information or your free market review, please call for an appointment.
More about Steve Duncan After graduation from South Point High School, Steve earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Appalachian State University. He has been involved in a multitude of community activities, serving on various Boards and Commissions and working with community issues. When he is not working with real estate clients or volunteering, he is on his bike, (the kind you pedal) riding and racing across the southeast. A top performer for more than two decades, Steve has the experience and knowledge to help you achieve your goals whether selling or buying property.
STEVE DUNCAN - THE ALLEN TATE COMPANY Broker/Associate, CRS-GRI, CNHS, SFR, ALHS (828) 777-5718 Cell/Direct • Steve.Duncan@allentate.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
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CHAMBER from page 1 Following the repast, handshaking, and back slapping, everyone got down to the business of business. Chamber president Ted Hall took to the podium and cast his gaze upon the throng. 'This is a group of brilliant people who enjoy each other’s company,” he declared. “We are here to celebrate another amazing year.” Hall wasn't kidding. The Montcross Area Chamber recorded a record membership of 450 in 2014, an increase of 436 percent in the past decade. This coming year the goal is to hit the 500 member mark. As has been the case in banquets past, a number of awards were given out. For 2014, the Business of the Year Award went to CaroMont Health whose President/ CEO Doug Luckett accepted the honor from Bill Ingram of Wells Fargo Bank. “We are honored to receive the Montcross Area Chamber Business of the Year Award and be recognized among such a high caliber of businesses in our community,” said Luckett. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees and their commitment to patients and the mission of our organization. We are grateful to partner with our Chamber and other groups, like the countywide Alliance for Growth, in enhancing economic development. We look forward to what the future holds by continuing to provide quality health care close to home for residents in the Montcross area.” The EPIC Award went to Walter Payne of ImageMark Business Services. It was given to him by Timothy Roberts of Cottage Keepers. The Harley B. Gaston, Jr. Public Service Award went to former Cramerton Town Manager Michael Peoples who accepted his trophy from Candi Lethcoe of Stress Free Home Care. Brad Thomas of Creative
Solutions gave the 2014 report. Following the awards aspect of the evening, newly selected Board Chair Melia Lyerly of the Lyerly Agency addressed the crowd. “Our Montcross area is the gateway for economic growth in Gaston County, “ Lyerly said. “The growth of Gaston County will begin at this gateway – and we need to be the welcoming committee. Growth is coming and we need to be ready. We need smart growth – thoughtful growth – that makes the Montcross area better because of it.” Lyerly continued. “I’m really excited to be looking out and seeing so much talent and leadership in this room. All of you together -- with your dedication and innovation -- you’re the heart and soul of the Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce, or MACC for short,” she said. “You’re the future of business in our region. Together, we can have a huge impact on our businesses, on our Montcross area … and beyond.” Other Chamber officers elected for 2015 are Chairelect Walter Payne of ImageMark Business Services, Treasurer Robert Aldrich of Aldrich CFO Services, Secretary Alex Mullineaux of CaroMont Health and Past-Chair Brad Thomas of Creative Solutions Special Events. New directors elected to the Board are Bill Ingram of Wells Fargo Bank, Jennifer Church of Chronicle Mill Land, Jason Ramey of PSNC Energy, Ethan Markel of PNC Bank, Moses Nueman of NB Technology, Regina Moody of Holy Angels and Kim George of Gaston Arts Council. Joining the Board as non-voting advisory directors are Cramerton Mayor Ronnie Worley and Gaston County Manager Earl Mathers.
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Thursday, February 5, 2015
Faces from the Montcross Chamber Banquet
Board Advisory members
Carrie Bailey and Carolyn Breyare
Candi Lethcoe and Michael Peoples
Melia Lyerly and Barry Webb
Ted Hall and Bryan Hough
Richard Turner and Elizabeth Atterberry
Timothy Roberts and Walter Payne
Ronnie Worley and Ryan Schrift
Brad Thomas and Melia Lyerly
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J. Paul Ford Center one of Belmont’s oldest facilities By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
One of Belmont's oldest municipal buildings, 82-yearsold to be exact, the J. Paul Ford Recreation Center at 37 East Woodlawn Ave, is also one of the most heavily used, yet plans to replace it are lagging. The center was the topic of a 2014 Belmont Parks and Recreation facility needs assessment report, but talks regarding a new recreation center were not on the table at the recent city council retreat. According to a study that the City of Belmont had COG (Centralina of Governments) perform a good many years ago, the J. Paul Ford Center was built in 1933 by the Emergency Relief Administration during the Great Depression and is named for former Bank of Belmont president J. Paul Ford. It was once the site for the Health Dept. and the National Guard armory, but has been used for recreational purposes for many decades. The study said in its summary “The J. Paul Ford Park and Recreation Center has served the City’s Park and Recreation needs for a number of years. However, due to severely deteriorating structural conditions and limited space, this structure is no longer adequate to accommodate the departments needs. In order to maintain a satisfactory level of park and recreation service, we recommend that all Park and Recreation administrative activities be relocated to a larger exiting facility or a new facility.” That advice has so far gone unheeded. Activities that are currently ongoing at the center are varied. They include everything from shag lessons to martial arts. The center is also the Parks and Recreation Department's main office. It is also rented out for birthday parties and receptions. Sallie Stevenson officially retired as Belmont Park and Recreation director last Friday, and during her years in that position often lobbied for a new center. “The Parks and Recreation Department has needed a gymnasium and full size recreation center since I’ve started work-
Heavily used and getting along in years, Belmont Parks and Recreation J. Paul Ford Center is overdue for replacement. Photo by Alan Hodge ing here in 1987,” she said. “The citizens of Belmont needed it then, and still need the new facility today. Much could be accomplished with a recreation center and gym that we cannot do now, such as starting the youth basketball program earlier in the evening and ending not so late like we have to do using the Middle School gym. And, we could actually have an adult basketball league in the basketball season instead of after February when we are finished with the youth basketball. Many more activities could be offered than is offered now with a
facility of that size. Such as afterschool programs in exercise and tutoring.” Council member Martha Stowe agrees that something needs to be done regarding a new recreation center. “Certainly we think that it needs to be replaced,” she said. “In the parks referendum the need was indicated to be more parks and sports fields so the money was spent and continues to be spent in that area. Hopefully we will be able to address that need later.”
Banner-News Obituaries Belmont council Rebecca “Ann” Murphy Hamrick Belmont- Rebecca “Ann” Murphy Hamrick, 65, passed away on Wednesday January 28, 2015. She was born in Mecklenburg County, daughter of the late Gladys Rogers and Clinton Hughes Murphy. She was preceded in death by two sisters Carolyn Sue Paxton and Joan Murphy McLemore. She was a member of Sharon Freewill Baptist Church. Mrs. Hamrick retired from American and Efird after 45 years of service. She is survived by her husband Jimmy Clayton Hamrick; one son Jamie Clayton Hamrick of Belmont; one sister Linda Murphy Kimray and husband Mike of Lincolnton; one brother Mickey Steven Murphy of Lincolnton. A service to celebrate the
She is survived by her husband Swayne Whitlock; two children Jamey Whitlock of Gastonia and Shane Whitlock and wife Emily of Dallas; one stepchild Shirley Shuler and husband David of Gainesville, Georgia; three grandchildren Audrey, Aniston and Masen Whitlock; two step grandchildren Elaina Daigle and Chad Shuler; two brothers, four sisters, and three step great grandchildren. A service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Whitlock was held 11:00 am Saturday January 31, at the Rankin Lake BapShirley Ann tist Church with Reverend Jim Chastain Whitlock Loftis officiating. Burial folGastonia- Shirley Ann lowed at Evergreen Cemetery Chastain Whitlock, 62, in Belmont. The family w repassed away ceived friends one hour prior on Tuesday to the service at the church. January 27, Condolence message may 2015. She be sent to the family at www. was born in woodlawnfuneral.org Hiawassee, Woodlawn Funeral Home Georgia, in Mount Holly, NC served the daughter of family. the late Laura and Vic ChasMORE OBITS ON page 7 tain.
life of Mrs. Hamrick was held 3:00 pm Saturday January 31, at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home with Pastor Shannon Williams officiating. Burial followed at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery. The family received friends from 1:00-3:00pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Condolence message may be sent to the family at www. woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.
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firms up goals for 2015 By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
Following its recent planning retreat, the Belmont city council finalized a list of goals and a followup plan of action for the coming months. The list is an audacious and ambitious one. City manager Barry Webb gave a rundown on what projects could receive priority status. “There are a few of these that will be discussed during the upcoming months as we look at our proposed budget for 2015-2016,” he said. “The Parks & Recreation Citizens Advisory Board should again look at the priorities for the department’s proposed capital projects and expenditures, with particular attention to be given to a gymnasium, a new bus, and a skatepark in reviewing priorities. Also, review options with the park design firm for expanding the seating capacity of the amphitheater at the planned Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park.” Webb laid out some other priorities. “The Main Street Advisory Board should develop a recommendation for the city council concerning the use of the $20,000 in the city’s FY 2014-2015 budget for economic development purposes,” he said. “Also, move forward with plans for
a large scale paving program, in the range of $1,000,000, to be paid for with a financing program utilizing revenues dedicated to this purpose.” In the parks and recreation realm, the council wants staff to investigate the options for bringing mechanical amusement rides back to one of the city’s festivals. Also, an increased emphasis needs to be given to branding the city’s festivals and events to create a stronger identify for each one. The Parks & Recreation Citizens Advisory Board should provide a recommendation on the potential consolidation of events and/or festivals if staff determines that there is a justifiable reason for bringing such a request to the Board. In addition, move ahead now with the placement of fabric matting and seeding on the bank adjacent to the sidewalk at Stowe Park to prevent further erosion. On the solid waste scene, the council intends to continue discussions/negotiations with representatives of Waste Pro concerning the potential extension of the city’s current contract with that firm for solid waste collection and disposal. As far as economic development goes, council will defer action on seeking an
outside consultant, as Mount Holly recently did, to conduct a study to determine the type and/or mix of businesses that are needed in Belmont to ensure a good fit with the existing business base. This effort shall be performed in-house. On the other hand, Belmont will provide financial support to the Greater Gaston Development Corporation for FY 2014-2015 at the same level as previously provided to the former Economic Development Division of the Gaston Regional Chamber of Commerce. Property issues issues the council is putting on its plate in 2015 includes a follow-up with Gaston County Commissioners regarding a potential partnership on development of the city-owned property on Gaither Road for an athletic complex. Another goal is to pursue additional information on the potential construction of a columbarium in Greenwood Cemetery during review of the Capital Improvement Program for the 2015-2016 budget. Another idea the council has in its sights is to obtain additional information on the regulations relating to the establishment and operation of an ABC store.
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Gas prices in our local area
Thursday, February 5, 2015
By Alan Hodge alan.bannertnews@gmail.com
After a month of seeing below two dollar a gallon gasoline prices in nearby Clover, S.C. and other parts of Gaston County, the good news finally made its way to stations in the BannerNews circulation area last week. A quick survey of local stations showed about a third of them at $1.99 per gallon and most others right on the two buck mark. A few stations were still just slightly above that figure. Overall, gas prices have fallen steadily for over 120 days. Local drivers are feeling the pocketbook pain relief. “I love it,” Peggy Starling said as she pumped $1.96 gas last Wednesday at Kings Mart on Hickory Grove Rd. Charlie Allen was there too. “It's great,” he said. “I hope it stays low.”
Allen's friend, David Sweeten had a theory about the plunging gas prices. “I heard the oil companies were selling their old gas out of reserve tanks,” he mused. At Rollins 76 station in North Belmont, also known as the Centre of Knowledge, owner Kenny Rollins gave an educated opinion on the gas price situation. “The oil companies have been raking in it for six years,” Rollins said. “The price now is where it should have been all along. It's great for the people, and hopefully prices will stay low.” However, other experts say the price could creep back up by a few cents in coming weeks pushing it back over the magical two dollar mark. So, local gas prices are like the mugwump bird. That is, sitting on a fence named two dollar gas with its mug on one side and its wump on the other. Peggy Starling is seen fueling at Kings Mart on Hickory Grove Rd. Like most everyone, Starling is liking the below two dollars a gallon gas prices in our area. Photo by Alan Hodge
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Banner-News Obituaries Virginia Sweet Porch Stanley- Virginia Sweet Porch, 94, passed away on S u n d a y February 1, 2015. She was born in Cornelius, NC, daughter of the late Mary Riley and Leander Nicolas Sweet. She was wife of the late William Glenn Porch. She is survived by her daughter Barbara Lynn Porch Bell and husband James of Gastonia. A grandson Shannon Tate of Dallas. A granddaughter Angel Tate of Bessemer City; two great grandchildren Brandan and Alex Tate. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Porch was held 7:30 pm Tuesday February 3, 2015 at Grace Baptist Church in Gastonia with Rev. Joseph Hensley officiating. The family received friends from 6:00-7:30pm Tuesday night at the church. A graveside service was held 1:00pm Wednesday at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Lincolnton. Condolence message may be sent to the family at www. woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC is serving the family.
ary 31, 2015 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. She was born in Gaston County, NC on March 9, 1947 to Katharyn Tench Byrd and the late Lyle Woodrow Byrd. She was preceded in death by her father, a sister Carolyn Byrd and a baby sister. Funeral service was 11:00 am Wednesday, February 4th, 2015 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home with Reverend Carroll Hennessee officiating. The family l received friends from 6:00 until 8:00pm on Tuesday, February 3 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Interment was at Olney Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service is serving the Family.
Cathy Hoffman Cochrane Belmont- Cathy Hoffman Cochrane, 60, passed away suddenly January 24, 2015. She was born in Gaston County, NC on February 12, 1954 She was preceded in death by her mother Margaret Faye Carver Stone and her husband Joe Cochrane. Cathy was the most giving Gail Byrd Lingerfelt and caring person we knew; Gastonia – Gail Byrd Lin- she was loved by all. She gerfelt, 67 passed away Janu- was a loving mother to any-
one who needed one. Cathy worked for Auto Zone as Regional Manager for 20 years. For the past 10 years, she worked with her sister Kim as owner and operator for Two Sisters Cleaning Service. She was an avid sports fan; she loved NASCAR. Survivors include sons Chad Simpson of Gastonia, Todd Simpson and wife Julia of Seattle, WA; her boyfriend Gary Beal; her father Don Hoffman, and step-father Kenneth Stone; nine brothers and six sisters, and her beloved dogs Mr. Max and Romeo. A memorial service to celebrate her life was held Wednesday January 28th at 7:00 pm at Chapel Grove Church of God, 4639 Chapel Grove School Road, Gastonia, NC with Reverend Frankie Sneed officiating. The family received friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation, 277 Martine Avenue, Suite 226, White Plains, NY 10601. Information at www.jbrf.org Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com. Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia (704) 864-5144 is served the family.
Rois Haroldean “Dean” Black Belmont- Rois Haroldean “Dean” Black, 77, passed away on Monday January 26, 2015. He was born in Cleveland County, son of the late James Henry Black and Essie Mae Collins Black. He was retired from the US Army after serving his country for more than 22 years. Mr. Black was the State Coordinator for Point Man International Ministries. He is survived by his loving wife Theda “Kem” Black; three children LaDonna Black of Gastonia, James Lee Black of Maiden and Ted Black and fiancé Brandy Worthy of Cherryville; three grandchildren Tia Stanfield of Mount Holly, Levi Jones and Shay Brooks of Belmont, and Shayla Tallent of Cherryville; six great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Black was held 3:00 pm Thursday January 29, at Tuckaseege Baptist Church with Reverend Jason Marlowe officiating. Burial with full military honors followed at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery. The family received friends from 1:00-3:00pm Thursday at the church. Memorials may be made
Bryson and Trenton Bolen; one great grandchild Tim Crow Jr. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Morgan was held 7:00 pm Friday January 30, 2015 at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home with Reverend Greg Morgan officiating. The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Condolence message may be sent to the family at www. Nancy Willcutt Morgan woodlawnfuneral.org Mount Holly- Nancy WillWoodlawn Funeral Home cutt Morgan, 53, passed away in Mount Holly, NC served the on Tuesday family. January 27, 2015. She see more OBITS page 12 was born in Gennessee County, Michigan, Funeral Home daughter of the late Norma Jean Brasher Thompson and & Cremation Service Donald Braswell. She was We offer funeral preceded in death by a sister Debra Sue Bowles. packages and we honor She is survived by her hus- existing pre-need funerals. band Frank Junior Morgan; two children Kelly Stafford 704-629-2255 and husband Chris Driggers of www.siskbutler.com Cramerton and Jeffery Teague Eddie Pigg, Funeral Director of Belmont; tjhree stepchildren David Morgan and wife Susie, Greg Morgan and wife Send your events to the Donna and Stephen Morgan all Editor to: of Cherokee, NC; two brothers The David Willcutt of Mount Holly and Michael Braswell of Gastonia; one sister Gail Butler BANNER NEWS PO BOX 589 of Gastonia; nine grandchilBelmont NC 28012 dren JR Driggers, Alex Driggers, Destiny Stafford, Kainen or email: alan.banner. Teague, Joseph Teague, Tim news@gmail.com Crow, Teria Morgan, Kalie to Hospice and Palliative Care Lincoln County, 107 N Cedar Street, Lincolnton, NC 28092 or to Tuckaseege Baptist Church, 511 Tuckaseege Road, Mount Holly, NC 28120. Condolence message may be sent to the family at www. woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.
Sisk-Butler
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
Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954
Lighthouse Full Gospel Church 530 N. Hawthorne St. 704-827-1442
Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly 826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999
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
Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201
503 North Main Street • Belmont • NC Shiloh Ame Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826
Tuckaseegee Baptist Church 511 Tuckaseege Rd. 704-827-4301
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
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Mt. Holly Church of God 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596 Mt. Holly Noles Baptist Church Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-2013
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704-867-2317
VICTORY CHEVROLET 801 W. Charlotte Ave. Mt. Holly, NC
704-827-6705
Page 8
The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Banner-News Sports
South Point smashes Ashbrook 72-66 By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com
Last Friday the Red Raider’s men’s basketball team scored a big upset. In what can only be described as a great game South Point beat Ashbrook 72-66. The win confirmed what everyone was already beginning to notice. The South Point Red Raiders are on a tear. South Point has won 5 of their last 8 Big South 3A Conference games. they are fourth in the conference standings and appear to be in a position to make some moves. The Red Raiders are 7-10 on the year and 5-5 in conference play. The win over the Green Wave was without a doubt South Point’s biggest game to date. Head coach Kody Kubbs likes the progress the team is making. “It was a huge win for us,” Kubbs said. “The first time we played them this year they beat us by 35. That’s a huge turnaround.” It could be said that South Point is learning from their mistakes. The Ashbrook game was the second game in a row where South Point beat a team that had spanked them earlier in the year. A week and a half ago South Point beat East Gaston 59-42. The game was far from a cake walk. South Point had to fight in all four periods. Things did not start out good for South Point. Early in the 1st period point guard Ryan Williams went down with an ankle injury. Williams presence on the court had, to
that point been huge. Instead of looking at the loss of a team mate as a set back the Red Raiders pulled together and worked it out. “Ryan rolled his ankle,” Kubbs said. “He was out most of the game. Everyone picked up for Ryan.” With Williams out the other Red Raiders went to work on Ashbrook. Junior Brandon Reeves led the offensive attack for South Point. “Reeves had a huge game,” Kubbs added. “He had 28 points. He made some big shots down the stretch.” Another player that made his presence known was JT Starr. Against Ashbrook, Starr was rebounding monster. The 6’3” junior owned the glass. Starr ended the night with a team high 15 rebounds coupled with 16 points. “JT was the man in the middle.” Kubbs said. To get the win several players steped up when called. One player to come through was freshman Blake Zieske. The 6 foot freshman is having a break out year. Zieske is honing his skills and turning into a lethal 3 point specialist. “Zieske had a big game,”Kubbs said. “He had 14 points. He also had four three pointers that were big.” Kubbs continues to be impressed with the freshman’s development and contribution. “He’s a freshman out there taking big shots.” Kubbs stated.
J.T. Starr (left) and Clay Julen were fired up in last week’s Ashbrook game.
Brandon Reeves soars again in the Red Raider win over Ashbrook.
Clay Julen makes a shot in the Ashbrook game. South Point came out on top 72-66.
Red Raider Brandon Reeves scores again in South Point’s win over Ashbrook last week. The score was 72-66. Photos by Lydia Julen
The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Page 9
Banner-News Sports
Hunter Huss beats Warriors 67-52
Lady Warriors win against Huss
East Gaston’s Brooklyn Armstrong struggles for the ball against Huss player Nykeria Chambers in last week’s game. East Gaston won 68-45.
Shai Robinson of East Gaston goes for a jump shot in the game against Huss. The Lady Warriors won the hard fought contest 68-45.
East Gaston’s Kris Harrington fights for the ball in last week’s contest against Hunter Huss. The Warriors came up short 6752.
East Gaston’s Warrior Chaz Johnson reaches for the goal in last week’s game against Hunter Huss. Photos by Bill Ward
East Gaston Warriors
South Point Red Raiders
Stuart -Cramer Storm
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Player of the Week
Player of the Week Shai Robinson Basketball
Clay Julen
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Scarlett Bethune Basketball
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The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Banner-News Sports
Gaston Day School to get new baseball field
Belmont Abbey photo
Crusaders split games with Catawba The Belmont Abbey baseball team completed a three game series with Catawba by splitting a doubleheader Sunday afternoon at Newman Park. Belmont Abbey captured the opener 7-5 and dropped the seven inning rubber game by a 6-0 score. In the opener, the Crusaders plated the first run of the game in the top of the first on Anthony Dimino’s double to left that chased home leadoff man Lorenzo Wright. Belmont Abbey held its lead until the bottom of the fifth when the Indians touched Harry Ferguson for a pair of runs to claim a 2-1 lead, but the Crusaders wasted no time regaining thier advantage. In the sixth, the Crusaders exploded for four runs, as Dimino came home on an error off the bat of Weston Clarke. Armen Calilao followed with a run scoring single that chased home Clarke and Ryan Allen. Conor Kwal-
wasser drove in the fourth run of the inning with a sacrifice fly to center that was deep enough to bring home Calilao. One inning later, the Crusaders tacked on another as Kayden Krause’s single to center scored Wright to increase the lead to 6-3. After the Indians got one back in the bottom of the inning, the Crusaders tacked on an insurance run in the eighth as Clarke scored on Josh Genthe’s double to right center. Catawba rallied with single runs in the eighth and ninth, but Allen locked down the win with his first save to preserve the 7-5 victory. In the seven inning nightcap, Catawba struck for one run in the first and added another in the fourth to move ahead 2-0. The Indians plated two more in the fifth and sixth to close the scoring.
Gaston Christian Honor Roll Gaston Christian School announces the following students made the Elementary School Second Marking Period Honor Roll for 2014-2015. FIFTH GRADE All A Honor Roll Cadence Ackerson, Ella Berry, Giulia Chitu, Allie Guy, Izzy Hoover, Makayla Lang, Jason Lareau, Chloe Pearson, Gillian Allen, Jayden Branch, Lacie Grubbs, Brandon Harris, Grace Marlowe, Morgan Pressley, Jake Sosebee, Emma Still, Ben Tugwell, Carter Wilson, Corrie, Cloninger, Sydney Foley, Adam Hoyle, Molly Jahn, Lily Grace McCollough, and Connor Nanney. A-B Honor Roll Thomas Bunko, Maddie Huffman, Jael Jordan, Ethan Roberts, Brianna Cope, Lauren Fisher, Braden Olson, Isaac Schmitke, Karrisa Smith, Maylin Crisp, Aaron Duncan, Morgan Elmore, Dakota Hawxwell, Kenna Matheney, Lanie Pettit, Natalie Sparks, Charlotte Witt, and Landry Wysong. Fourth Grade All A Honor Roll Eli Bailey, Dawson Berry, Cole Dickerson, Emma Ghorley, Trinity Hall, Connor Joyce, Maddy McKinley, Evan Reid, Christopher Reynolds, Jackson Roberts, Chase Stewart, Nick Welfare, Christa Berry, Chase Hawkins, Harper Lawing, Olivia Reed, Pres-
ton Shuford, Peyton Campbell, Riley Jessup, Makenzie Karr, and Georgia-Scott Toal. A-B Honor Roll Eli Arias, Lydia Eastburn, Mackenzie Magro, Aiden Moody, Anna Vella Ramsey, Hannah Stacy, Grant Carter, Zach Cochran, Abbey Ford, Kaden McKoy, Devin Medeiros, Sara Plyler, Cammie Pressley, Julia Ramsey, Lizzie Rondinelli, Brianna Edwards, Camryn Faggart, Christian Glaze, Myles Gordon, Jacob Hogan, Nathan Melton, Sophie Townsend, and Emmi Williamson. Third Grade All A Honor Roll Mason Harris, Jenna Nicholson, Mary Scott Robinson, Amy Grace Thomas, Katie Walker, Austin Wirth, Spencer Witt, Kailey Cooke, Nicholas Harris, Joy Jordan, Delaney Kaylor, Emily Morton, Tori Richardson, Stephen Stroupe, Caroline Allen, Wilson Forbes, Katelyn Kuhn, Nathan Hobby, Alyssa McCulloh, Patrick Nanney, and Addyson Painter. A–B Honor Roll Emma Bowen, Ciara Nanney, Nolan Wysong, Isabella Ferone, Joshua Williams, Lexi Bantz, Gideon Huitt, Heston Heglar, Delson Hillier, Abby Lewis, Charlie McAllister, Michala Sumpter, Miko Therrien, Allison Elhardt, Carson Hill, Ryanne Owens, Priya Patel, Lilli Reid, Jack Tenold, and Scotty Toal.
Gaston Day School is pleased to announce it will be constructing its very own “Field of Dreams”. Through a generous gift from the William S. Henry Family, the school will begin construction on a new baseball complex this spring. This complex is the first in the plans for athletic expansion at Gaston Day School. Beginning this spring, the back area of the Gaston Day School campus will be graded and cleared, so that grass can be planted by the summer. The complex is projected to open in the spring of 2016. Architects, William Monroe and Associates, will oversee the project, which includes such amenities as: dugouts, scoreboard, batting cages, field lighting, and concession stand with restroom facilities. Head of School Richard Rankin said, “I am so excited for what this facility means to Gaston Day School and the baseball community. This project has been a dream for the William S. Henry Family and we are fortunate that Gaston Day will be able to now
provide a state of-theart facility for our GDS Community as well as the local Gaston County community. Both as coach and volunteer, Frances Henry is more responsible than anyone else for the success of the baseball program here. Gaston Day School is so grateful to Frances and Bill for making our dreams for the baseball program a reality with the new field.” Director of Athletics, Casey Field said, “The addition of this on-campus facility offers a huge boost to our baseball program, the athletic department, and Gaston Day School. We are so grateful for this generous gift from the Henry Family. I am excited about the immediate impact that this complex will make, and I am certain that it will lead to future growth within our program.” William S. Henry is a graduate of Gaston Day School (Class of 1977). He is married to Frances Henry and resides in Gastonia. His step-daughter Brianne Hough McMullan graduated from Gaston Day School in 2008, and his sonsWilliam (10th grade) and Charles (7th grade) are current GDS students.
School Happenings Morrison wins Gaston Day School Geographic Bee Sam Morrison, an eighth grade student at Gaston Day School, won the school competition of the National Geographic Bee on January 21 and a chance at a $50,000 college scholarship. The school Bee, at which students answered questions on geography, was the first round in the 27th annual National Geographic Bee. This was Gaston Day School’s sixth consecutive year competing in the National Geographic Bee. Thousands of schools around the United States and in five U.S. territories are participating in the 2015 Bee. The school champions, including Sam Morrison, will take a written test; up to 100 of the top scorers on that test in each state will then be eligible to compete in their state Bee on March 27, 2015. The National Geographic Society will provide an allexpense paid trip to Washington D.C., for state winner to participate in the Bee national championship rounds May 11-13, 2015. The first place national champion will receive a $50,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society including a subscrip-
Sam Morrison tion to National Geographic magazine, and a trip to the Galapagos Islands, courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic.
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The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Page 11
Banner-News School Happenings
Gaston Schools Good News... Kiser Elementary Kiser Elementary School recognized three classes for having the best overall attendance for the first semester. Melissa Combs’ third grade class, Tracie Jenkins’ fourth grade class and Mary Allen’s fifth grade class received a pizza lunch from parent volunteer Billy Davis. He also gave a $1 coin to individual students who achieved perfect attendance. International Celebration The GCS Office of Professional Learning and Human Resources Department co-hosted an International Celebration at the Rader Staff Development Center. The event gave the Gaston County Schools EPI (Education Partners International) teachers and GCS teachers from other countries an opportunity to meet one another, share ideas and enjoy food donated by South Fork Deli in Cramerton, Texas Roadhouse, and Zaxby’s. Sadler Elementary School Sadler Elementary School students in Jessica Ellison’s fifth grade class participated in mental math, coding, programming and other collaborative activities during the four-hour “Raspberry Pi” event. Members of the UNCCharlotte Outreach Team led the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program. GCS Faith Summit - Is your church pastor or faith group leader planning to attend? The first-ever Gaston County Schools Faith Summit is planned for Friday, February 6 at 9:00 a.m. at Brookside Elementary School. Representatives from local churches, faithbased organizations and community groups are encouraged to attend. The program is designed to bring together schools and the faith community in support of public education. Invitations were sent to more than 300 churches and faith groups – please check with your church pastor or faith leader to make sure he/she is planning to attend. For more information and to RSVP, please call the GCS Communications Department, (704) 866-6118, or e-mail communications@gaston.k12.nc.us. Looking Ahead - Special Events
N.C. School Public Relations Association Blue Ribbon Awards ceremony in Greensboro.
for Gaston County Schools The following special events and recognition programs are on the calendar for Gaston County Schools: All-County Band Concert, Saturday, February 7, 2:00 p.m., Ashbrook High School; “Are You Smarter Than a Gaston County Fifth Grader?” presented by the Gaston County Education Foundation, Thursday, February 19, 6:00 p.m., Stuart W. Cramer High School auditorium; AllCounty Middle School Chorus Concert, Tuesday, March 3, 7:00 p.m. Holbrook Middle School; National Board Certified Teachers Reception, Wednesday, March 4, 4:00 p.m., Schiele Museum; College and Career Expo, Saturday, March 7, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Eastridge Mall; Gaston County Spelling Bee presented by The Gaston Gazette: Wednesday, March 25, 9:30 a.m., Hunter Huss High School auditorium; Star Teacher-Student Awards presented by The Gaston Gazette, Thursday, April 23, 4:00 p.m., Schiele Museum; Quiz Bowl, Saturday, April 25, 9:00 a.m., Forestview High School; Business Partnerships Recognition, Thursday, April 30, 4:00 p.m., Hawks Nest Intermediate School. Communications Department wins eight state awardsThe GCS Communications Department has won eight state awards for excellence in school communications and public relations. GCS received recognition in the following categories: Electronic Media, Excellence in Writing, Handbooks, Marketing Campaign, Newsletter, and Website. The awards will be presented Friday at the
Gaston Early College open house dates and application deadlineThe 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. Highland open house, application deadline and lottery dates The application process is 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. Commissioners’ School seeking applicants for 2015 summer sessionCurrent 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 through February 13. For more information, contact your high school counselor or email program directors Lori Collins, lwcollins@gaston.k12.nc.us, or Bridget Matzke, bsmatzke@gaston.k12.nc.us.
Commissioners’ School of Excellence accepting applications The James S. Forrester Commissioners’ School of Excellence (CSE) is accepting applications for the summer enrichment program. The application submission window is open from January 26 until February 13, 2015 – each high school determines its application deadline. CSE is a unique, two-week summer residential learning experience for rising tenth graders in Gaston County. This year’s program will be held June 14-26 at Belmont Abbey College. The goal of CSE is to provide students an opportunity to focus on leadership and thus prepare them to assume immediate roles as high school leaders and future roles as Gaston County leaders. CSE participants have an opportunity to attend seminars, take field trips, work with community leaders, hear renowned guest speakers, participate in a variety of performances, and enjoy many hands-on experiences. Lessons and activities concentrate on problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills and the importance of community service. Sixty students are chosen from across the county based on academic performance, extracurricular activities (school and community), leadership potential, self-motivation and written expression. There is no cost to students who are selected to attend CSE. The James S. Forrester Commissioners’ School of Excellence is funded by the Gaston County Commissioners and operated by Gaston County Schools in cooperation with local colleges. It is named for the late Senator James S. Forrester, who was an adamant supporter of the school and helped to ensure its early success. Current ninth grade students who are interested in the program should see their high school guidance counselor for an application or e-mail Lori Collins at lwcollins@gaston.k12.nc.us or Bridget Matzke at bsmatzke@gaston.k12. nc.us.
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Retreat discussion includes teacher pay, school safety
Board of Education explores the possibility of opening new schools The Gaston County Board of Education is exploring the possibility of opening four new schools: an elementary school, a magnet elementary school, a middle school, and a vocational/technical high school. The Board discussed the four options at its annual retreat held January 23-24 at the Rader Staff Development Center in Cramerton. The Board will schedule public forums to gather input from parents, students, employees, and the community. The options are: Opening a new middle school in Stanley. An option is to build a new school to replace Stanley Middle School; Opening a new elementary school in west Gastonia. An option is to build a new school to consolidate Forest Heights Elementary, Pleasant Ridge Elementary, and Rhyne Elementary; Opening a new elementary magnet school in Gastonia. An option is to transform the current
Hawks Nest Intermediate School into an elementary magnet school. Students currently assigned to Hawks Nest Intermediate would attend Robinson Elementary School; Opening a vocational/technical high school. An option is to establish a vocational/technical high school to provide specialized career training for students. The four options are preliminary – the Board did not vote on any of the options at the retreat. Board of Education chairman Kenneth Lutz, Jr. said the four options are an effort by the Board to address school facility needs and expand school choice programs. “As a Board, we are looking at how to best meet the needs of our students and our community,” said Lutz. “Building a new middle school in Stanley and a new elementary school in west Gastonia would provide better school facilities for students and offering programs like a mag-
net elementary school and a vocational/technical high school would make more school choice programs available.” According to Lutz, the Board would like to partner with local business and community leaders to consider the feasibility of opening a vocational/technical high school. While the school district already offers Career and Technical Education programs in its middle and high schools, Lutz believes a vocational/technical high school would give students the focused skills, knowledge and hands-on training needed to obtain a job in a specific profession. “The four options discussed by the Board are a positive for Gaston County
Schools, and we look forward to hearing from the community,” added Lutz. “Our goal is to begin working now to see how we can improve our school facilities to provide better educational opportunities for children.” Also during the retreat, the Board heard presentations about: The 2015-2016 fiscal year budget, which included discussion about an increase to the teacher pay supplement – the Board identified teacher pay as a top funding priority; Teacher compensation and retention; School safety and security; Career and Technical Education opportunities; Community outreach and partnerships; and Population growth and comprehensive facility assessments.
Page 12
The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Banner-News Lifestyles
Children’s Art Weekend is Part of Art & Orchids Families can bring color and creativity to their winter during Children’s Art Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, February 14 and 15, at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Part of the Garden’s Art & Orchids exhibition, kids will be encouraged to embrace their imagination and creativity. Hands-on activities such as crafting Valentines and other art projects will be available throughout the Garden. It’s also a great time to submit and entry in the Garden’s coloring contest or participate in a variety of art-related activities. In addition, kids will be able to visit and explore Lost Hollow, the new children’s garden that opened in October of last year. During Art & Orchids, which runs through March 18, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden pairs the best of its collection of thousands of colorful orchids with 24 works of Lost Hollow Designer W. Gary Smith to create a unique artistic display focusing on the ideas and methods used to create the four-acre children’s garden. The works of art by Smith draws inspiration from culture, imagination and childhood, which through design and collaboration, were then translated into the landscape and features of Lost Hollow. In this exhibition produced exclusively for the Garden, guests can view Smith’s original art on display, learn what inspired these pieces, and see how they inspired the design of Lost Hollow. The exhibit will explore not only what inspired the art, but also how the art inspired the designs and how Lost Hollow emerged from a cycle of inspiration, creation and collaboration from a team that included Smith, blacksmith Lynda Metcalf and Executive Director Kara Newport. The exhibits and activities are free with garden admission. Members admitted free, $12 adults, $11 seniors 60+, and $6 children 4-12. The Garden is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., seven days a week. For more information call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org.
Valentine’s Day 5K Run at the Garden Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden will host its inaugural Hearts-a-Bustin’ 5 K trail run on Valentine’s Day, February 14 at 9.a.m. Held in partnership with the Carolina Thread Trail, this run will start at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Persimmon Trail and continue through the connecting Seven Oak’s Preserve Trail maintained by the Carolina Thread Trail. Registration continues through February 11, 2015 or until full. The race is limited to the first 600 participants. Registration is $30 for individuals and $50 per couple; and will increase to $35 for individuals and $55 per couple on race day. Couples can be friends, spouses, significant others, best friends, co-workers, siblings, etc. Run with a buddy or challenge yourself! Registration and more information is available at www.dsbg.org/hearts-bustin-5k/ Overall race winners in both male and female categories will receive: a massage gift certificate from Verne Deason at William Henry Salon; an orchid from the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden collection; a free Household Membership to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden; and a free Carolina Thread Trail Membership. Race fees support the programs of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and the Carolina Thread Trail. Sponsors of the race include: Catawba Lands Conservancy, Choice USA, Edward Jones Investments-Jay B. Smith, Farris Fab, Gastonia Sheet Metal, McSpadden Custom Homes, Pharr, Yarns, PNC Bank, Providence Management, Split Second Sound, Tindol Ford Subaru, WealthPlan FinancialLowery Financial Group. The Hot Chocolate Bar sponsor is McClean Properties. Special thanks to: Gaston County Family YMCA, Belmont Walk & Run and Dick Mercure Design.
February concerts at Gaston Museum The Gaston County Museum will be hosting a concert series located in the newly renovated Historic Courthouse in Dallas, starting Friday, February 13, 7-9pm. The series is free and will focus on Americana style music being performed by some of the best Michael Reno Harrill artist in the region. Michael Reno Harrell is an award winning songwriter, as well as a veteran storyteller and entertainer, Michael’s recordings top the Americana Music Association charts year after year. His original songs and stories have been described as “Appalachian grit and wit� but, as his writing shows, Michael’s awareness is much broader than the bounds of his boyhood home or even the Southern Experience. Having toured throughout the British Isles and much of Europe, as well as most of the US, the songs he writes and the stories he creates reflect an insight into people’s experiences that catch the ear like an old friend’s voice. 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.
Obituary Charles Boyd Black, Jr. U.S. Army Air Corp Veteran Former Mount Holly Mayor Mount Holly- Charles Boyd Black Jr., 91, of 235 Cedar Lane, passed away on Monday February 2, 2015 at his home. He was born in Mount Holly, NC, son of the late Charles Boyd Black Sr. and Ruth Preston Gowan Black. He is survived by his wife of 69 years Frances Wiggins Black; four children Ruth Ann Dalton and husband Charles of Gastonia, Steven M. Black and wife Rhonda of Charlotte, Christy B. Cook and husband Tony of Denver, and Charles David Black of Charlotte; six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was a US Army Air Corp Veteran of WWII and Korea. He was a member of the 8th Army Air Corp 392nd Bomb Group 578 Bomb Squadron. He flew 26 combat missions in a B-24 Liberator as a Radio Operator. He was stationed in England. He was awarded 4 air medals; Good Conduct Ribbon, Europe – African- Middle East Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Victory Medal for WWII. He also was awarded the National Defense Ribbon. He was a charter member of the North Carolina Air National Guard at Charlotte where he served as a Communications Chief until he was recalled to the United States Air Force for the Korean Conflict. He was a charter member of the Mount Holly VFW #9136. He was a charter member of the 8th Air Force Historical Society Metrolina Wing where he served as Commander twice. He was employed with the Federal Aviation Administration in Charlotte from 1960 – 1983. He was the chairman of the Transportation Advisory Committee for the local area for more than 18 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mount Holly where he served as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher. He served on the Mount Holly City Council for 8 1/2 years from 1970 -1978 and served as Mayor of Mount Holly for 16 years from 1978- 1994. He was the Mount Holly Man of the Year in 2006. Mr. Black help start the Mount Holly Spring Festival. A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Black was held 1:00 pm Wednesday February 4, 2015 at the First Baptist Church in Mount Holly with Rev. Dr. Kendell Cameron and Rev. Dr. Robert Winecoff officiating. Burial followed at Pineview Cemetery. The family received friends from 6:00-8:00pm Tuesday night at First Baptist Church in Mount Holly and also one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 300 South Main Street, Mount Holly, NC 28120 or to Hospice of Gaston County, PO Box 3984 Gastonia NC 28054. Condolence message may be sent to the family at www. woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.
Retiring Belmont Parks and Recreation director Sallie Stevenson cut a goodbye cake with Mayor Charlie Martin at the farewell party thrown for her by the city last Friday. Stevenson put in nearly three decades at her post. Photo by Alan Hodge
Fundraiser set Texas Roadhouse, 1863 Remount Road (Behind the Hampton Inn), Gastonia, and Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties will be having a fundraising night Monday, February 23, 4:00-8:00 p.m. Support this cause by presenting this flyer: http://www.pfclg.com/images/documents/Fundraiser. jpg and Texas Roadhouse will donate 10 percent of your total food purchases to the fundraiser. The Partnership for Children of Lincoln and Gaston Counties is a nonprofit organization that brings community groups together to serve the needs of children from birth to five years of age. The Partnership implements North Carolina Smart Start programs and funding through a variety of measures, including its collaboration with local child care centers and family child care homes to enhance quality, and provide educational support. For More Information, contact: Amy Wadsworth, Public Information Coordinator, 704-922-0900.
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The Banner News / banner-news.com
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Page 13
Banner-News Law Enforcement
Wanted felon taken into custody By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
Over a dozen law enforcement vehicles from the NC Highway Patrol, Gaston County Police and Belmont Police converged on the intersection of Johnson Street and Central Avenue near downtown Belmont a little after noon last Wednesday after pulling over a van with a felon wanted in Texas and Tennessee, Justin Upton, 25, inside. Police, some with guns drawn, arrested Upton on a string of charges. The scene was near First Presbyterian Weekday School and NewBridge Academy daycare centers. Neither facility was directly involved in the incident.
All kids were OK. Staff at NewBridge acted quickly securing the place and the facility director/owner Amanda Hommell later sent a letter to parents. “The safety of your child is always our top priority,” Hommel wrote. “We do have lockdown procedures at NewBridge and I want to make you aware of them. When this type of situation occurs, the children are locked in the building and the blinds are closed. We try to operate as usual so not to cause alarm to the children. If needed, we will turn the lights off and have the children sit as far away from doors and windows as possible. We did encounter the need to have a lockdown today at approximately 12:45 PM. An arrest was made outside of Over a dozen law enforcement officers responded to Johnson Street and Central Ave. in Belmont last Wednesday after a wanted felon was pulled over near two daycare centers. Photo by Alan Hodge NewBridge Children’s Academy today. It will be on the news tonight as news helicopters and vans begin to arrive. The staff did an incredible job getting the children in lockdown. I could not be more proud of how everyone came together to protect our children, our staff, and our school. Please do not hesitate to ask me any questions regarding this matter.” Passersby gawked at the situation as Justin Upton police swarmed the intersection. One resident across the street said he counted 14 police cars. The incident began when a DOT worker heard a Highway Patrol bulletin about the van. He saw it at I-85 and McAdenville Road, alerted police and followed the vehicle as police began joining in. The van was driven by Upton’s wife, Brittany. She did not attempt to speed away, but eventually pulled over at Johnson Street. The Upton’s four children were in the van at the time of the stop. They were picked up from the scene by relatives. Mrs. Upton was later interviewed at Belmont PD by the FBI. Upton was placed in Gaston County Jail under $1,014,000 bond. He was wanted on several warrants including larceny of firearms, obtaining property by false pretense, and theft of property over $10,000. According to the Sheriff’s Department website, he had five previous arrests going back to 2013 for crimes including assault, assault on a female, failure to comply, failure to appear, and fraud.
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Lawmakers hear ideas for more moped rules
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North Carolina legislators heard suggestions last week for more new rules regulating mopeds in the state. The new ideas came from the Division of Motor Vehicles just months after the General Assembly passed a law requiring owners to register their vehicles. The new, suggested, regulations may also require moped or motor scooter operators to have a driver’s license or state identification card and to obtain liability insurance. Also, mopeds would be prohibited from roads where posted speed limits are at least 45 mph. According to the NCDMV, seventy-seven of the 115 reported fatal crashes in North Carolina involving a moped or motor scooter from 2009 through 2013 were on roads with speed limits at or above 45 mph. The recommendations, were based on crash data and what other states already regulate, also would prevent someone from operating a moped with a driver’s license that was revoked or suspended due to impaired driving. Starting July 1, owners must provide paperwork showing the vehicle is built to meet moped standards and pay an $18 fee. A moped engine can’t be more than 50 cubic centimeters. Some lawmakers are concerned more restrictions might go too far. Legislators have been worried the state has little information about the number of mopeds and how many are actually souped up as motorcycles. State law currently says mopeds can’t be built to travel more than 30 mph on a level road but many can, and do, go faster than that. The five-year DMV crash data presented to lawmakers identified more than 3,800 crashes involving mopeds or motor scooters, although state traffic engineer Kevin Lacy cautioned accidents were likely underreported. The most crashes occurred in Wake (357), Guilford (236) and Buncombe (205) counties, but accidents also were high in more rural counties such as Gaston, Catawba and Iredell.
The Banner News / banner-news.com
Page 14
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Banner-News Law Enforcement Belmont Police report... Jan19: Ryan Christopher Emmett, poss. drug, arrested by Officer M. Kelske, 6450 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 20: Jennifer Kristine Keller, larceny shoplifting, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 701 Hawley Ave. Jan. 20: Vic Roshey Watson, attempt to obtain controlled substance forgery/ fraud, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, 6802 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan 20: Michael Travis Kephart, attempt obtain controlled substance forgery/fraud, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, 6802 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 21, Devon Avree Howell, no operator license, fail to dim headlamps, consuming under age 21, arrested by Officer K. Seigler, Wilkinson Blvd. at Archibald St. Jan. 22: Mary Kathryn Parnell, drug violations, equipment/paraphernalia, poss./conceal, arrested by Officer K. Wingate, 700 Park St. Jan. 22: Ashlie Nicole Mccall, simple poss., DWLR, unsafe movement, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 7005 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 22: Leonard Morris Hillard, resist, delay, obstruct, arrested by Officer K. Wingate, 951 Cason St. Jan. 22: Elliot Jackson, resist,obstruct, delay, arrested by Officer K. Wingate, 951 Cason St. Jan. 22: Logan Marie Phillips, larceny, arrested by Officer A. Anderson,
Belmont Abbey Campus. Jan. 24: Melody Michelle Tate, habitual larceny, warrant for felony probation violation, resist, obstruct,delay, warrant for injury to personal property, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 6507 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 24: Jessica Lynn Byers, larceny, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 6507 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 24: Virginia Dale Lewis, shoplifting concealment, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 6507 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 25: Christopher Michael Schaller, larceny shoplifting, arrested by Officer M. Pickert, 701 Hawley Ave. Jan. 26: Jennifer Heidi Brett, order for arrest, failure to appear, arrested by Officer J. Reagan, Caldwell Farm Rd. Jan. 26: Timothy Brett Bolton, comm. threats, arrested by Cpl. E. Mason, 2321 Shannon Dr. Jan. 26: Bradly John Maddox, open container, arrested by Officer J. Reagan, 7110 Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 27: Justin Lee Mayes, poss. sch. VI, poss. sch. IV, arrested by Officer J. Reagan, South Point Rd. Jan 30: Amy Suzanne Evans, poss. heroin, drug paraphernalia, poss./conceal/deliver/mfg. sch. I, II within 100ft park, 1000 ft. school, maintain dwelling/ vehicle, arrested by Cpl. Mason, Bi-Lo PVA. Jan. 31: Brian Andrew Baucom,
DWLR, poss. controlled substance in jail, arrested by Officer K. Seigler, Woodrow Ave. Jan. 31: Dequan Raheam Thompson, poss. firearm with serial number filed off, poss./conceal weapons, arrested by Officer J. Reagan, Exit 26 I-85. Jan. 28: Lee Tadlock Kristopher, attempt vehicle larceny, poss. drug, injury personal property, break enter vehicle, financial card theft, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, Crest St. Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 28: Corey Allen Tadlock, fail heed lights siren, attempt larceny of motor vehicle, arrested by Officer M. Kaqiman, Crest St. Wilkinson Blvd. Jan. 28: Brandon Keith Moore, attempt larceny vehicle, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, Crest St. Wilkinson Blvd. Feb. 1: Lisa Marie Gibson, open container, arrested by Officer M. Hall, Patterson St. Feb. 1: Andrew Sutton Brown,underage poss.malt beverage, arrested by Officer D. Wingate, US29/74 Main St. Feb. 1: Caroline Elizabeth Snyder, poss. less than1/2 oz. marijuana, arrested by Officer A. Anderson, PVA Taco Bell. Feb. 1: Tanya Yolanda Crawford, DWLR, expired registration, unauthorized use motor vehicle, arrested by Officer M. Hall, Cedar St. Sacco St.
Meth lab arrests made in Catawba Heights Since August 2014, the Mount Holly Police Department along with FBI JTTF/ Safe Streets Charlotte and ATF Charlotte Travis Setzer Ernest Price conducted multiple controlled purchases of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Prescription Pain Pills and Firearms from numerous individuals at several addresses in the Catawba Heights Community located in Mount Holly. Two search warrants were executed on Monday, January 26 at 313 Fite Road and 58 Blanche Avenue where two meth labs were located. According to Mount Holly police, Travis Dean Setzer, 40, of 313 Fite Road and Ernest Lavern Price, 55, of 58 Blanche Avenue were arrested at the scene for methamphetamine related crimes. According to the Gaston County Sheriff’s Dept., Setzer faced 24 felony charges and Price eight felony charges. Both men were placed in Gaston County Jail on $250,000 bond A total of 15 individuals were charged with numerous drug and firearm violations related to this operation. Officers from the Gaston County Police Department, Gastonia Police Department, and Mount Holly Police Department along with agents from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation remediated both clandestine labs. This investigation is ongoing and will result in further criminal charges.
S.O.C.K.S. receives grant from Community Foundation S.O.C.K.S. (Serving Our Community With Kindness in Springwood) relief agency, recently received a $6,600.00 grant from the Community Foundation of Gaston County. These funds will support the Food Pantry and Utility Assistance Program and will be used to serve the needy in the Springwood and North Belmont areas of Eastern Gaston County. S.O.C.K.S. Ministry is a volunteer run agency with no paid staff. It receives donations from the community, area churches, businesses and foundations who support its goal to meet the needs of the less fortunate working together to help end hunger and provide emergency relief for the elderly, homeless, children and families with low income. The Community Foundation awards annual grants through a competitive application and review process. Ernest Sumner, Executive Director of the Community Foundation stated, “The need for emergency assistance of food and shelter, along with other basic human needs has increased dramatically over
the last year according to Lee Allen, Director of S.O.C.K.S. Because of this increase, the Foundation’s Board of Directors felt strongly about the impact S.O.C.K.S. will have in our community.” The Community Foundation of Gaston County is the leading steward of philanthropic giving by connecting donors with community needs to enhance the lives of present and future generations. The nonprofit organization has invested more than $74 million in grants and scholarships over its 36-year history. At its core, the Community Foundation is an organization created with gifts from generous people committed to local causes. For donors, the Foundation serves as a philanthropic advisor. For the community, the Foundation serves as a grant maker and a civic leader. Through the support of its donors and fundholders, the Foundation has been able to address some of the community’s most pressing needs, including hunger, housing and education. For more information, visit Cfgaston.org.
Pictured: Elizabeth Patton (Community Foundation), Lee Allen (Director of S.O.C.K.S.), Ernest Sumner (Community Foundation, Executive Director), Paula Self (S.O.C.K.S.), and John McDermid(S.O.C.K.S.). Photo contributed
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GROVER– Recently renovated house with linoleum, hardwood, lighting counter tops Painted from top to bottom. 3 BR,1 BA Brick house w/carport in Grover for rent. Approx. 1 mile to I-85. Quiet neighborhood. $750/mth. Call for appointment to view. 803-3220099. (2/04)
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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)
Thursday, February 5, 2015
The Banner News / banner-news.com
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Page 16
Thursday, February 5, 2015
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WHAT WE DON¼T HAVE! * High Miles...nothing over 130,000 miles * Weak or scratched paint * Dented or Scuffed Bumpers * Sagging Headliners * Holes in the Seat * Bad Radios, or CD Players * Vehicle options that don’t work * Bald Tires * Leaking, Smoking, Knocking Engines ©CommunityFirstMedia
WHAT WE HAVE! * Guaranteed Financing By Cleveland Finance Company * Late Model Extra Clean Vehicles * Low Miles * Good Paint * Good Tires * Clean Interiors * Excellent Mechanical Condition * Peace of mind ... * 12 months 12,000 miles: Engine, Transmission, Timing Belt or Chain, CV Axles, Radiator, Any Fluid Leak.
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