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Thursday, February 12, 2015

~ Network After Work ~ February 12, 2015 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

CAROTHERS FUNERAL HOME Make business contacts, enjoy refreshments and see the beautiful new 10,500 square foot Carothers Funeral Home and Chapel building.

No charge to attend.

Non-members welcome.

2205 Williamsburg Dr. Gastonia, NC To register contact: Elizabeth Atterberry

704.825.5307 ext. 3 elizabeth.atterberry@montcrossareachamber.com

For upcoming events visit montcrossareachamber.com

Volume 80 • Iss Issue 6

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

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Vernon and Janet Harris still in love after 60 years of marriage

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Paradise is where you find it, and for 82-year-old Vernon and his wife 78-year-old Janet Harris of North Belmont, they've found it in places as far away as tropical Okinawa, and for 61 years, with each other.

Married on December 23, 1953, Vernon and Janet's love story began on a church bus.

“We rode the same bus to the East Belmont Church of God,” Janet said. “Vernon sat in the back with the older girls.

At first I thought he was a nasty old boy.”

For his part, Vernon recalled Janet's long black hair.

“That hair really got to me,” he said.

One thing led to another and the couple decided to get married. The fateful day was also Vernon's 21st birthday.

“We eloped to Gaffney,” Janet said.

“Everybody said we were too young, but we fooled them. It took Vernon four days to get the courage to tell my daddy what we had done.”

At the time, Vernon was in the U.S. Army. He was a soldier from 1948-1970 and was also a Green Beret. He served two tours in Vietnam. Places he and Janet This picture dates to 1963 and shows Vernon and Janet lived during his military years included Harris on the island of Okinawa where he was stationed Fort Bragg, Detroit, Georgia, and six years with the U.S. Army. on the island of Okinawa.

All that traveling could be tiring.

Contributed Photo “It was hard moving with four kids,” Janet said. “But we made a lot of friends in the places we lived.”

Their favorite place was Okinawa.

See more HARRIS page 2

Even after over 60 years of marriage, Vernon and Janet Harris of North Belmont still like to laugh.

Contributed Photo

Richard Harris awarded Order of the Longleaf Pine

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Community VFD retired chief Richard Harris is seen holding his Order of the Long Leaf Pine award. Harris was given the statewide honor at a recent ceremony for his 50 years service with the North Belmont-based fire department.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Richard Harris may not be a household name- yetbut he recently received a recognition that places him in the ranks of folks like Andy Griffith and Michael Jordan.

The award Harris, 68, was presented with recently is the Order of the Log Leaf Pine.

It's North Carolina's highest civilian honor and given to folks who have served their community or the entire state in some special way. In the case of Harris, it was for his 50 years with Community VFD #32 in North Belmont.

“I was surprised to get the award considering the

significance of it,” Harris said. “It's awesome and I am tickled to death.”

Harris' “day job” is with Parkdale Mills, but he's been a fixture at Community VFD since he was just 18-yearsold.

“I was working at Acme Mills back in 1965 with Roscoe Lathan who was a charter member of the fire department,” Harris said.

“He invited me to join.”

A half century is a long time to be involved with anything, but Harris counts his years at Community VFD as good ones.

“Saving a life or some-

one's property is a special feeling,” he said. “There's also the companionship and friendship of the other firefighters.”

One of Harris' long-time Community VFD colleagues is Robert Jackson, 76, who not only has over 50 years at the station under his belt, but was also given the Order of the Long Leaf Pine a couple of years ago.

“Richard is a fine man,” Jackson said. “He has always been a good friend and we've worked a lot of fires together.”

See more FIREMAN page 2

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HARRIS

FROM page 1 “It was like paradise,” Janet challenges to the Harris duo, said. “The cost of living was low but they have worked out a and we had a maid. We used to philosophy and formula for go to big cookouts on nearby is- making it through thick and lands. Living there is our fondest thin.

“Both of our parents taught memory,” These days, Vernon and us that being married was for Janet frequent the East Gaston the long haul, not the short Adult Day Care Center in Ca- haul,” Janet said. “There's no tawba Heights where Vernon such thing as divorce.”

Vernon, tongue in cheek, is part of the musical entertainment. In days past, he amused added this.

“She stays with me 'cause the other patrons by standing on his head, yo-yoing, and doing I'm so good to her,” he said.

Whatever the reason, Verone-arm pushups. Now, he plays non and Janet are proof that the mouth harp.

“It's a lot of fun,” he said. love can flourish and endure Staying married for six de- whether in a bus, on a tropical cades, especially given Ver- island, or in North Belmont. non's military career, brought

FIREMAN FROM page 1 According to Harris, firefighting has changed over the past five decades.

“The equipment is more sophisticated,” he said. “The fires burn hotter too. I fell through a floor or two but came out OK.” Harris has his award, and public service runs in the family. His son, Michael, is on the Belmont PD, his daughter in law Shannon Harris is with Mount Holly PD, his brother Bob has 48 years at Community VFD and is a retired Gaston County policeman,

nephew Matthew Harris is also a county officer, nephew Daniel Harris is with Cramerton PD, and grandson Andrew Harris is with the Ranlo Fire Department.

Overall, Harris says he's learned a lot during his time at Community VFD, not just about putting water on fires or helping sick or injured folks, but about his fellow firefighters as well.

“The feeling of brotherhood here is amazing,” he said.

Belmont council Oks lease for Rail Trail route

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

It's a fact that you can't buy a candy bar for one dollar any more, but the Belmont city council approved a deal last week for that amount that will prove to be a win-win situation for citizens.

The bargain that was unanimously approved is a lease between the city and the NCDOT for use of the Piedmont and Northern rail corridor running between downtown Belmont and Belmont Abbey College. The lease is for one dollar a year and moves the Rail Trail greenway/walking path project one step closer to becoming a reality.

According to the lease, the NCDOT does not expect to use the tracks for active rail service for at least ten years.

Step two will be to get the other parties whose properties bound the tracks/corridor to put their signatures on leases.

“We need the other parties to the lease to sign the agreement,” said assistant city manager Adrian Miller. “There are separate signatory pages for each party to sign. They are essentially providing their consent to having the green-

This conceptual image shows what the Rail Trail could look like as it runs beside the Piedmont and Northern tracks near Sisters of Mercy campus in Belmont.

Contributed art way built over their property.

The lease has an automatic renewal if NCDOT does not need the land for another purpose.”

Some of the other parties Miller referred to include the Belmont Community Organization, the Southern Bene-

Mount Holly city council plans for the coming year

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

The Mount Holly city council held its annual planning retreat recently and over a two day span of hard work covered a wide variety of topics.

The event took place Jan. 29 and 30th. Instead of going out of town, the council decided to save taxpayers some money and huddled at the Municipal Complex.

Department heads gave council members, city manager Danny Jackson, and Mayor Bryan Hough summaries of where their particular sections stood and where they wanted to see them head in the coming year.

Discussions included public works and the North Fire Station, waste treatment, a greenway update, economic development, debt structure, fee schedule, real estate, special events, and Centralina Council of Governments membership.

One topic that got a lot of attention was parks and recreation. Director Mark Jusko walked the council through a presentation that focused on his department's long range plans, the possible expansion of Tuckaseege Community Center, and the need for an all-inclusive park.

Jusko also presented a parks priority list, based on Parks and Recreation Commission recommendations. The Commission originally had nine recommendations , but whittled

Thursday, February 12, 2015

it down to four at its October meeting. Topping the chart was the need to upgrade the River Street Park ball field. The field needs fencing, lights, and other upgrades. Second were outdoor volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts at Tuckaseege Park. Third was a downtown park. Fourth was a feasibility study to expand the Tuckaseege Community Center.

Talk also turned to a possible park next to the Rollins Apartments in the historic African-American Freedom neighborhood at the intersection of W. Glendale and S. Hawthorne.

A study report presented to the council outlined what amenities the park could have such as a playground, picnic shelter, restroom, and horseshoe pits.

As for the Tuckaseegee Community Center expansion, that facility is heavily used and currently is currently the site of activities such as zumba, basketball, Sole Patrol, indoor soccer, and a fitness center.

A few other ideas that were on the Commission “wish list” included a fishing pier at Tuckaseege park, a splashpark, land acquisition for a park north of town, and a network of walking trails from the new CaroMont Regional Medical Center to River Park and from the YMCA to Tuckaseegee Park.

Funding for Mount Holly Parks and Recreation projects are partially tied to ABC funds. in October 2014, the city received $13,300 from ABC.

Opera Carolina to perform at Historic Courthouse, Dallas Opera Carolina, in collaboration with On Q Productions and Firebird Arts Alliance will present a new production of Adolphus Hailstork’s one-act opera, Rise for Freedom in the Historic Courthouse in Dallas on Feb. 20 at 7pm. Rise for Freedom tells the true story of John Parker who, as a freed man in 1860s Ripley, Ohio, who fought aggressively against slavery as a leader in the Underground Railroad.

Rise for Freedom is a one-act opera performed in English.

John Parker was born in February 2, 1827 in Norfolk, Virginia. His mother was enslaved but his father was a local white aristocrat.

At the age of 8, John was sold and taken to Richmond Virginia. He was then taken to Mobile, Alabama, and sold again to a local physician. While living with this family, the physician’s sons taught John how to read and write. John became an avid reader, who enjoyed Shakespeare.

In the 1840s John began an apprenticeship with different iron foundries in Alabama. Because John constantly argued with the foundry foremen, John’s owner decided to sell him. John convinced one of the doctor’s patients to purchase him with the promise that John could buy his own freedom from the wages he made at the foundries. By 1845, John had bought his freedom and was living in Ripley, Ohio running his own foundry where he employed at least 10 individuals.

At night, however, John would travel into Kentucky and help runaway slaves escape to Ohio. He is credited with helping almost 1,000 people gain their freedom between 1845 and 1865. After the war, John Parker continued to be a successful business man and an inventor.

He died in 1900 leaving behind a wife and eight children.

In 1886, a manuscript was written by John detailing his life. This document sat upon the shelves in the Duke University Library Archive until it was rediscovered by historian Stuart Sprague in 1996. Sprague published his findings in his book His Promised Land: The Autobiography of John P. Parker, Former Slave and Conductor on the Underground Railroad.

There is no admission fee; this is a pay-what-you-can event. RSVPs are requested by calling 704-922-7681 x105 or emailing Jason Luker at Jason.Luker@gastongov.com.

dictine Society, Sisters of our Lady of Mercy, Virginia Feimster and John Blanton Hand Trust, Duke Energy, Parkdale America LLC, SkyBelmont LLC, and Alliance Real Estate III Inc. The Rail Trail project has moved forward by fits and starts for a number of years.

Last week's lease approval was preceded by a public hearing on Nov. 3, 2014. The hearing received comments from several residents of Circle Drive near where the tracks are located that do not have to sign leases. However, at that time officials said they would consider the comments rendered by the trio.

Going back even further, the Rail Trail idea dates to 2010 when Belmont officials and the NCDOT began talking about it. That same year, the city got a grant to study the project which is part of the Carolina Thread Trail. In 2012, the study showed the trail could be constructed on

the side of the railroad tracks.

In 2013, NC Gov. Pat McCrory signed a document giving the city permission to do the project.

Other actions connected with the Rail Trail have included a “boots on the ground” survey by Steering Committee members on Oct. 11, 2011, and public input meetings on Nov. 10, 2011 and Jan. 10, 2012 at Belmont Abbey College.

“After everyone sign the lease, then design and engineering can begin,” Miller said.

Construction of the Rail Trail could wrap up in 2017.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Page 3

The only thing missing was blood and screams

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

The Mercy Heritage Center on the Sisters of Mercy campus in Belmont recently held the grand opening of its Civil War medicine exhibit and the only thing missing was blood and the cries of the wounded.

The exhibit illustrates the nursing work done by Sisters of Mercy during the period 1861-1865 tending to Union and Confederate sick and wounded soldiers on and off the battlefield.

Items on display include a Civil War style tent with a “wounded” manikin inside, and a series of large panels covered with Civil War photos and drawings showing Sisters of Mercy nurses, camp scenes, battlefield dead, and more.

The grand opening was spiced up by a group of Civil War reenactors from the 13th NC Regiment who were came dressed “ready for battle”.

Rex Hovey, whose ancestor actually served as a Union army surgeon, was dressed in that role. Hovey brought along a number of Civil War medical supplies and tools including a bone saw that was actually used by his relative.

Other items Hovey showed and explained the use of included tourniquets, funnels to dispense chloroform, and probes to dig musket balls out of the wounded.

Adding yet another layer of ambiance to the afternoon was Sister Paula Diann Marlin. She's one of the Mercy Heritage Center

staff that helped create the exhibit. During the grand opening she dressed as a Civil War era Sister of Mercy portraying one of them that came to North Carolina from New York and served in the military hospitals in New Bern and Beaufort.

“The Sisters of Mercy served in a wide variety of places in the Civil War,” she said.

“In Arkansas they watched the Battle of Pea Ridge and after it was over went to the field to help. After the Battle of Shiloh, they got on steamboats and went down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers to that place as well.”

It's estimated that of the 600 or so Catholic nuns that served as nurses during the Civil War, 100 were Sisters of Mercy, an order that was formed in Ireland in 1831 by Sister Catherine McAuley.

Mercy Heritage Center director Grant Gerlich was pleased with the turnout.

“It went pretty well I thought,” he said.

“We had just around 100 or so visitors. Very positive comments, they enjoyed the reenactors and the exhibit. Many were surprised that the Heritage Center is here in Belmont and did not really know much about us. The exhibit will be up indefinitely.”

Interested in visiting? The exhibit will be open to the public every Thursday from 1:00 – 5:00pm and by appointment for groups of six or more.

Mercy Heritage Center in Belmont had the grand opening last Saturday for its ongoing exhibit showing the hospital work done by Sisters of Mercy during the Civil War. Seen posing with a “medical tent:” are Rex Hovey, Carl Howerton, Sr. Paula Diann Marlin, Artie Graham, and Bobby Joe Etzler. Over 100 folks came to the event and saw what passed for medical care during the period 1861-1865. For more information call 704-755-2085 or email ggerlich@sistersofmercy.org.

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 .

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

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

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

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

Rex Hovey of the Living History Association of Charlotte portrayed a Union army surgeon at the Mercy Heritage Center’s Civil War medical exhibit that opened last Saturday. He’s holding a bone saw actually used in the war by his ancestor Dr. Bleecker Hovey of the 136th NYSV. Photo by Alan Hodge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The boys and leaders of Scout Troop 59, First United Methodist Mount Holly, prepared breakfast for the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte on Sunday, February 1st. They served breakfast for approximately 50 guest that are staying in the 28 room house. They provided all the food needed to carry out this service project. After they prepared and served breakfast, they took a tour of the house. Seen in front of house- Alex Russell, Jon Ballard, Bryson Jones, Conner Myers, and Rhys Cate.

Contributed photo

Page 4

Opinions...

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Yours, Ours, Others

“The things that we love tell us what we are.”

Two good points to Obamacare

My opinion... Dieting Well, last week the long awaited Stupor Bowl took place. I came up with that name after observing mobs of folks departing a local discount store with carts loaded down with cases of barley pop for the Sunday afternoon parties that are part and parcel to viewing the Big Game. It’s really all about math. If the Big Game starts at 6pm and the merrymaking starts at 3pm that’s three hours of chugging before the kickoff.

Another aspect of the Big Game is eating. I saw a blurb on TV that said how many chicken wings would be consumed while folks sat with eyes glued to the TV. The figure was 1.25 billion...with a “B”. That means over 600 million chickens bought the farm ..literally..to feed ravenous sports fans on just that one day! I did not know there were that many chickens in the nation!

Besides chicken wings, the other usual Stupor Bowl eats were consumed in copious quantities. You know the stuff..chips, nachos, nerts, bean dip, popcorn, those puffed up nuthin’ cheese things, cakes, pies, pigs in a blanket, etc. etc.

It makes me hungry just listing all the good things people put down their cake holes whilst viewing the Stupor Bowl. That’s because I did not get to partake of any of it

because I, for the I was “wore out”. Pafirst time in my thetic. life, am having But back to the to follow a strict eats situation. diet.

On workdays I had I shall not gotten into the lunchgo into the gory time habit of grabbing details about a fast food sammich why I am dietand rushing back to ing. For most my desk and after of my days I eating it followed up have been rather with chocolate candy. slim. Until the Alan Hodge Boy oh boy nothing past few months Banner-News Editor beats good old chocowhen a combination of ram- late candy unless it’s more pant eating, swilling craft chocolate candy. wobblepops, sitting around However, unbeknownst to and generally being a glutton- me, my blood sugar was creepous hawg has raised my blood ing up slowly but surely and sugar to astronomic levels. As my waistline inches were adda reward, I now have to prick ing up as well. In short, I was my finger twice a day and stick heading for health disaster. a little strip in a machine with For lunch today I had a a blood drop on it and see what little salad and a teeny weeny numbers pop up and take a pill hamburger and threw away the twice a day and worst of all, top part of the bun. I had a mint exercise. for dessert. Frantic, I went next I hate exercise. It all goes door to the Lyerly Agency and back to my high school days in stole one miniature tootsie roll. gym class when a pal of mine I rolled it around in my mouth nicknamed Spider Monkey as long as possible until, like and I had to run laps and do snow before the sun, it melted pushups for misbehaving. He away. All the while my body and I both swore we would was crying out for pie, cake, never exercise again if we and more candy. could help it. I wonder what When you are dieting you ever became of good ol’ Spi- suddenly become aware of der Monkey. food ads. There on the TV Sharon and I started exer- screen or in magazines are cising the very day of the Stu- wonderful, succulent, starchy, por Bowl. It takes two minutes sugary dishes none of which to walk around our estate. So you can have. Sharon buys we trudged up hill and down these ladies’ magazines from hill for about 15 minutes and the grocery store that have

- Thomas Aquinas

By Glenn Mollette headlines shouting “Eat all you want and lose weight!” “Boston crème pie can cure what ails you!”, “Feel ten years younger by eating fudge!” etc.

Every headline has an exclamation mark to drive home the point. But the point is a lie.

Eating out while dieting is another challenge. We went to a local eatery last Saturday and everything on the menu except lettuce was either on a bun or fried and don’t forget the plates dripping with french fries and the dessert brownies covered in hot fudge or the frosty ales headed for every table in view...every table except ours.

I used to mock and scoff at people who had to diet. Not any more. They have my sympathy. Now I know what it’s like to float on a raft made of cake in a sea of melted chocolate and not be able to eat a bit of it. We are a band of brothers and sisters dieters and I. Waist band that is. Dieting can be depressing but the alternative is no fun either. I therefore resolve to stop whining about it and try to do better. The reward is like a pot at the end of the rainbow, but instead of being filled with gold it’s filled with choc...i mean it’s filled with good health, a slimmer me, and a longer life. I hope.

SIDEWALK SURVEY Q: Who Is Your Valentine Sweetheart?

There are two good points to Obamacare. Insurance for Americans with preexisting conditions is vital to saving some Americans from financially drowning. Also, not dropping an individual's health insurance because he gets sick is also crucial. Making insurance available for America's very down and out is not a bad thing. However, this is only expanded Medicaid. Helping people to become well, productive, get off Medicaid, work a job and pay insurance premiums must be the goal of every state.

So far here is what Obamacare has done for me beginning January 1 of this year. My premium increased over $250 per month. I now pay 10% of all my medical bills. For example, if my hospital bill is $100,000 I will pay my deductible plus another $10,000. My routine prescription cost has increased.

Now, there will always be a charge per prescription. Before January 1, once I met my deductible my prescriptions were free. I don't like using the word free because they weren't really free. My premium was plenty last year as well.

I guess I should be raving about the new Affordable Care Act. I do know people who now have free insurance, paid by taxpayers of course. They have a $6,000 deductible but after that they pay zero. The best aspect of their plan is that they do not pay a monthly premium. The downside is that they do not make very much in salary. For them I am glad they can say they now have medical insurance.

I realize it's not a perfect world and America has a lot to be thankful for. However, saying that Obamacare will be better for everybody is a matter of opinion. My opinion is that it's not so great.

Here is what we need to do: We should upgrade the public county health clinics nationwide. We should have a doctor and nurses in every clinic. We are not talking about $300,000 a year salaries for the docs but certainly good salaries. This would be a place where anyone especially the poor could go for free medical help. Remember, there are MDs not accepting Medicaid patients. Good and free clinics would be someplace people could count on.

Have limited emergency care in all the medical clinics.

Keep Medicaid for the truly disabled. Make it temporary for the poor. The poor need it for a time but should not be allowed to be on it forever. A hospital should never be allowed to turn anyone away regardless if they are paying via Medicaid or other insurance carrier.

Making medical insurance competitive would help. People in Florida should be able to shop insurance providers in Texas and vice versa. Allow competition between insurance companies across state lines The bottom line is that no American can afford to be without healthcare insurance. A trip to the hospital can bankrupt most Americans. Every American should take personal responsibility for his or her health. We should have affordable American healthcare. The very poor and disabled should have good accessible healthcare. Finally we need to greatly edit Obamacare.

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

The Banner News PO BOX 589 • Belmont NC 28012

EUGENE STOWE

KAREN VALENTINE

My wife of 41 years, Mary Irene.

My husband Patrick.

RICHARD THOMAS My wife Luanne.

BINDY COSTNER My husband Jason.

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

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Thursday, February 12, 2015

Page 5

The Heart of the Matter Provided by: Michael Tamberella, MD Cardiologist at CaroMont Health

Michael Tamberella, MD

February is national Heart Health Awareness Month and with our New Year’s resolutions fading into the rear view mirror, cold weather keeping us inside and waistlines expanding, its seems timely to discuss heart health. Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in men and women in Gaston County and the United States. However, heart disease can be delayed and even prevented

by adopting a healthy lifestyle that incorporates proper nutrition, physical activity, smoking cessation and the recommended amount of sleep each night.

NUTRITION A healthy diet is the cornerstone to a heart-healthy life. If you are not already eating a healthy diet, the decision to eat healthier should be gradual but also long-lasting.

A diet that over-emphasizes certain foods and completely excludes others is not healthy or sustainable. The American Heart Association recommends a dietary pattern that encourages a majority of calories from fruits, vegetables and whole grains, moderate consumption of fish and nuts, and minimizes simple sugars, salt and fat. Our overall goal should be to achieve a body mass index below 25. This

index is based on your height and weight, and can be calculated utilizing smartphone apps and online tools such “BMI Calculator.”

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

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Knowing you live in a community where residents are of the same generation will give you the feeling of peace and tranquility.

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Due to the daily demands of life that leave many of us pressed for time, the last thing we find time for is exercise. A sedentary lifestyle raises a person’s risk of developing heart disease and other health conditions. The human body is designed to move, which is why physical activity is critical to maintaining good health. It’s important to incorporate activity slowly and build up to your exercise capacity.

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Starting too aggressively can lead to burnout and even worse, injury. The recommended goals for daily physical activity include, 30 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity five times per week or 25 minutes of vigorous activity three times per week, and moderate to high intensity strength training twice a week.

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This New Townhome located at 197 Crystal Springs Lane and is ready for you to move in to. This home has many features you will enjoy... such as Hardwood Laminated Floors, Granite Kitchen Tops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Screen Porch, Roomy Master Bath and More.

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Prices subject to change without notice.

Smoking is toxic to our bodies and overall health. In addition to the numerous cancer-causing substances found in cigarettes, nicotine and carbon monoxide directly injure the blood vessels, which lead to blockages in the arteries and subsequently, heart attacks and strokes. Smoking is very addictive both chemically and psychologically, making it very difficult to quit.

Quitting smoking is not an act but rather a process that begins with making a commitment to break the habit followed by a period of preparation. This process includes setting a quit date,

choosing a method or aid to help with quitting, removing triggers from your home (cigarette lighters and ashtrays) and enlisting the help of friends and family to hold you accountable. Tell those around you your quit date and your method for quitting.

If you live with someone who smokes, encourage them to join in you in your pursuit to stop smoking. A person’s success rate increases if all members of a household are smoke-free.

CaroMont Health offers a tobacco cession program called Quit Smart. To learn more, call 704.671.7936.

SLEEP Inadequate sleep is not only annoying, but it can contribute to health problems.

A number of factors contribute to sleep deprivation, which continues to grow to epidemic proportions in our society. We’ve known for years that untreated sleep apnea leads to the development of heart disease.

More recently, research shows that any chronic cause of sleep deprivation (less than 6 to 7 hours per night) leads to increased blood pressure, higher caloric intake and a decline in mental function. Additionally and due to the digital age in which we live, insomnia has now been linked to using electronic devices prior to bedtime. Ideally, devices should be shut down at least one hour before going to bed to ensure we get adequate rest each night. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition. If you or a loved is having difficulty sleeping, particularly if you’re overweight or are snoring excessively, it is important to talk to a medical professional.

Leading a healthy lifestyle isn’t always easy, but it’s achievable. The key is to take the first step towards heart health and the subsequent steps will get easier.

Michael Tamberella, MD, is an Interventional Cardiologist at CaroMont Heart in Gastonia, and was instrumental in pioneering a cutting-edge cardiac stem cell clinical trial at CaroMont Health. The study earned the Charlotte Business Journal’s 2013 Excellence in Healthcare award.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 6

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Banner-News Obituaries John Roy “R.L.” Adams Gastonia- John Roy “R.L.” Adams, 77, passed away peacefully February 6, 2015 surrounded by his loving family at his residence.

R.L. was born in Greenville, SC, on March 17, 1937 to the late Roy Lee and Isdore Barnett Adams.

Funeral Service was at 3:00 pm, Monday, February 9th at Hillview Baptist Church with Reverend Randy Stiles officiating. Interment followed at Gaston Memorial Park with Military Honors provided by the Gaston County Honor Guard and the Releasing of the Doves Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Rd Gastonia, served the Family.

Jo Ann Williams Duke Mount Holly- Jo Ann Williams Duke, 83, of 105 Dogwood Drive, passed away on Wednesday February 4, 2015 at her home. She was born in Lincoln County. She was preceded in death by her mother Elsie Wike Clark, her stepfather Joyce White Clark, and her biological father Dewey Lee Williams.

She graduated from Mount Holly High School in 1949 and graduated from Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina in 1953. She taught

Kindergarten and First Grade during her teaching career having taught one year at Parks Hutchinson School in Charlotte and 11 years at Tryon Hills Elementary School in Charlotte.

Mrs. Duke also taught 20 years at Pinewood Elementary School in Mount Holly. Before and after her 20 years at Pinewood, she taught at the First United Methodist Church Preschool in Mount Holly. She also served as a surrogate parent for students in need at Gaston County Schools. After retiring in 1993, she received a recognition for a career of service from Gaston County NCAE. She was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd where she was a member of Circle #5 and a Lay Reader. She was a member of the Mount Holly Book Club, the Alpha Delta Kappa Honorary Teachers Sorority, a member of the North Carolina Classroom Teachers Association, an honorary member of the Mount Holly Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. Along with her husband Bob, she was a member of the couples bridge club for over 50 years.

Mrs. Duke is survived by her husband of 57 years Dr. Robert Lester Duke; one daughter Lisa Duke Brown and husband Daniel of San Marcos, Texas; one son the Rev. Daniel W. Duke of Hickory, NC; one grandson Jon Michael Brown. Sister in law Rose Duke Stanley and husband John of Gastonia.

A service to celebrate the

life of Mrs. Duke was held 3:30 pm Tuesday February 10, 2015 at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd with Rev. Cuttino Alexander officiating.

Burial followed at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery. The family received friends from 1:303:30pm Tuesday in the Church Parish Hall.

Memorials may be made to the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 110 South Main Street, Mount Holly, NC 28120 or to Bethany Lutheran Church, 1644 Main Avenue Drive NW, Hickory, NC 28601.

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

Sue Wallace Rhyne Belmont- Sue Wallace Rhyne, 77, passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2015 at Cleveland Regional Medical Center in Shelby, NC. Sue was the youngest daughter of the late George Henry and Pearl Watts Wallace of Charlotte, NC. A longtime resident of Belmont, Sue currently lived in Forest City, NC. Sue was a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother and in turn was deeply cherished by her family. She attended North Mecklenburg High

School in Charlotte. She married Jack L. Rhyne in 1954 and lived most of her life in the Belmont area where she was a long time member of Unity Baptist Church and Westmorland Baptist Church in Charlotte. Sue was currently a member of Florence Baptist Church in Forest City, NC. In 2005, Sue retired from Transbotics of Charlotte and prior to that had worked over twenty years with Roffler, Inc. also in Charlotte.

Sue is survived by her husband of almost 61 years, former Belmont mayor and NC state senator Jack L. Rhyne; son John M. Rhyne, Sr. and wife Kathy of Belmont; son-in-law John T. Cooney of Wasilla, AK; sister Carolyn Wallace Davis and husband Bobby of Charlotte; special niece Connie Rhyne Atkins and husband Chris of Belmont. In addition to her parents, Sue was preceded in death by her son, Robin W. Rhyne, Sr., daughterin-law Kimberly Ogden Rhyne, grandson Hunter W. Rhyne - all of Statesville, NC and her daughter Susan Rhyne Cooney of Wasilla, AK. Sue is also survived by grandchildren, Alana J. Rhyne, Katie Rhyne Gillespie and husband Matt , Robin W. Rhyne, Jr. , John Marshall Rhyne, Jr., Emily S. Rhyne - all of Belmont, NC, and Zachary T. Cooney of Anchorage, AK. Also surviving is a large extended family of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and seven great- grandchildren.

A funeral service was held

at Unity Baptist Church in Belmont on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. and was preceded by a visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. The funeral service was conducted by Reverend Joe Lawing and assisted by Dr. Bobby Gantt of Florence Baptist Church, Forest City. Unity Baptist is located at 1005 Catawba Street in Belmont. A graveside service followed the funeral at Greenwood Cemetery in Belmont.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to the Belmont Community Organization, PO Box 1248, Belmont, NC, 28012.

Condolences may be left on Sue Wallace Rhyne’s online guest book at www.mcleanfuneral. com.

McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont served the Rhyne Family.

Annie Lucille Jonas Vause Belmont- Annie Lucille Jonas Vause, 86, went home to be with the Lord and reunited with Pap on February 5, 2015 at Stanley Total Living Center.

She was born January 23, 1929 and was the daughter of the late Henry and Nora Jonas. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years Daniel Martin Vause, five brothers and one sister. She was a longtime member of North

Belmont Church of God. She is survived by daughters Diane Cooper and husband Gary of Belmont and Becky Venn and husband Barry of Springwood, seven grandchildren Dale Cooper and wife Crystal, Renee Painter and husband Tim, Tracy Howell and husband Jeff, Andrew Cooper and wife Kari, Marty Venn and wife Susan, Kelly Reese and husband Robert, and Debbie Baldwin. 12 great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter. A brother Floyd “Bud” Jonas and wife Pansy of Stanley and numerous nieces and nephews.

A service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Vause was held 2:00 pm Monday February 9, 2015 at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home with Pastor Carl Overton and Rev. Roger Wentz officiating. Burial followed at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery. The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. see more OBITS page 7

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

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

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 Chr. 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

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

511 Tuckaseegee Rd • Mt. Holly •NC

New Mills Chapel Fire Baptized 104 Morning Glory Ave. 704-825-5457

Queen Of The Apostles Catholic Church 503 N. Main Street 704-825-9600

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

North Belmont Church of God 2316 Acme Rd. 704-827-4092

South Point Baptist Church 124 Horsley Ave.

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

O’Conner Grove Church Ame Zion 613 N. Main Street 704-825-5576 Park Street United Methodist 120 Park Street 704-825-8480 Power of the Spirit Church 118 School Street 704-827-7071

704-825-9516 South Point Freewill Baptist 297 Gaither Rd. 704-825-8045

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

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

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

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

Tuckaseegee Baptist Church

New Life Baptist Church 201 Oak Trail 704-822-6195

Containers/Trailers Sales & Storage Rental

704-867-2317

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

704-827-6705

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Banner-News Obituaries continued from page 6 Memorials may be made to Hospice of Lincoln County, 107 North Cedar Street, Lincolnton NC 28092.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Cathy Stone and Kathy Harris of Hospice and to the staff of Stanley Total Living Center.

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

Selma Lane Childers Withers Gastonia- Selma Lane Childers Withers, 87 passed away peacefully February 6, 2015 at Peak Resources, Gastonia.

She was born in Spartanburg County, SC on March 15, 1927 to the late Les and Goldie Neal Lane.

Funeral service was Monday, February 9th at 2:00 pm at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home with Dr. Robert Winecoff, Reverend Charles Ledford and Reverend Jack Fleming officiating.

Interment followed at Clingman Memorial Gardens, 1219 E. Cherokee, Blacksburg, SC

With the releasing of the doves.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia served the family.

Virgie Wiggins Lynch Belmont- Virgie Wiggins Lynch, 82, of Palm Bay, Florida passed away with her family by her side at Wuesthoff Hospital in Melbourne, Florida on February 4, 2015.

Virgie was born March 11, 1933 to Lee Roy Wiggins and Mary Penley Wiggins in Belmont, NC. The oldest of 9 children, Virgie was a natural leader and shining example to her family.

Virgie met future husband Marvin Otis Lynch in Belmont, NC. Marvin was the brother of Virgie’s best childhood friend, Mosilea Lynch Davis, and he knew Virgie was the girl for him. After some convincing, Virgie married Marvin at Stowe Memorial Church in Belmont, NC on Dec 16, 1951. The love birds moved to Cleveland, Ohio

Page 7

Walk-Ins Welcome! to begin their family. Over the course of 63 years, Virgie and Marvin raised 4 children in loving homes in Oviedo, Florida and Belmont, NC. Virgie was a devout Christian and tireless witness for Jesus. Virgie loved the Lord and always put Him first. Virgie was a wonderful mother not only to her own children but to grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends needing a mother’s love. As a Grandmother, she provided a warm hug, delicious biscuits and always just the right words.

Virgie is survived by her husband, Marvin of Palm Bay, FL; sisters Fran Mann of Casselberry, FL, Ann Sutton and husband Lee of Melbourne; brother Donald Wiggins and wife Fayza of Honolulu, HI; daughters Vickie Fuchs of Oviedo, FL, Lydia Lynch of Osteen, FL, and Joy Andronica and husband Matthew of Summerfield, NC; son Richard Otis and wife Susie of Malabar, FL; 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, and Susie of Malabar, FL; 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Vergie is preceded in death by her parents Lester Roy Wiggins and Mary; her sisters Violet

Mae Hawes and Nannie Gibby; brothers Lester Roy Jr. (Bud), David and Ronald Wiggins.

Services will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC on February 14, 2015 beginning with a viewing at 2:00 pm and funeral service at 3:00 pm, followed by a graveside service and interment at Greenwood Cemetery in Belmont, NC. Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mt. Holly is in charge of arrangements.

Louise Killian McMahan Gastonia- Mrs. Louise Killian McMahan, 86 passed away peacefully on February 8, 2015.

She was born in Gaston County, NC on August 19, 1928 to the late Obrey Clyde and Mary Smith Killian.

Funeral service was Wednesday, February 11th at 2:00 pm at Grace Baptist Church with Reverend Michael Frazier and Reverend Joseph Hensley officiating Interment was private at Westview Gardens Cemetery Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia served the family.

A group of professional singers from South Carolina, Cecilia Ensemble, will perform an all-English program at Belmont Abbey on February 20, 2015 8:00 PM. Included will be William Byrd’s Mass for four voices, English anthems and motets, James Macmillan’s Cantos Sagrados, and Benjamin Britten’s Five Flower Songs. Admission to all Abbey concerts is free. Donations are gladly accepted.

For additional information: 704-461-6012 (new number), karenjacob@bac.edu or www.bac.edu.

Contributed Photo

Rep. McHenry announces art contest Chief Deputy Whip Patrick McHenry (R-NC) announced submission deadlines for the 2015 Congressional Art Contest last week. The Congressional Art Contest began in 1982, and, since then, over 650,000 high school students have participated in this nationwide event enabling high school students to showcase their artistic ability.

The winning artwork from each congressional district will be prominently displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The “Grand Prize” winner will also receive two round-trip tickets to Washington, D.C., to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony and will be eligible for a scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design.

All entries will be judged by a panel, and one winner will be selected. Artwork should be submitted electronically to Joe Bost of Congressman McHenry's Gastonia office. The deadline to submit the artwork is April 15, 2015.

Once all artwork has been received, submissions will be posted on the Congressman's Facebook page and users can share their thoughts on the work by liking their favorites.

“The last two years of this competition have brought some of the greatest interest I have seen since being elected to Congress,” said Congressman McHenry. "I am glad 10th District art students and teachers have shown such tremendous enthusiasm for the competition. I look forward to meeting the winning student this summer."

The Congressional Art Contest is a privately-funded competition with support from SouthWest Airlines and the Congressional Institute. For more information, please visit mchenry.house.gov.

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Someone else needs to hear the words, “I Love You” By: Tony Marciano While having family dinner, my daughter’s boyfriend announced that Valentine’s Day was driven by Hallmark so they could sell greeting cards and make money. He went on to say that women don’t want flowers and candy to which my wife replied, “They always like diamonds”. The room went silent.

He told her not to be so obvious.

Hmmmm – he’s not getting it.

Tony Marciano I have two camels and a goat in my backyard for my daughter’s dowry. If he asks her to marry him I’ll throw in the sheep as well. He didn’t bite on my offer.

It’s cute watching they call each other names and saying “I love you”. There are others in your house that needs to hear those words, “I love you.” But first, let me start with a story.

When my sons were in high school, I needed to come up with something to help us bond. Not being an athlete, it wasn’t going to be any sport that involved a ball. Football, basketball and baseball were out. I tried to introduce them to model airplanes but they didn’t have the patience to learn to fly them.

We tried video games but I don’t have the eye/hand coordination. They were getting older and I needed something and I needed it fast.

I have always had a love for cars. Having been a commuter student in college, I learned to repair my own car so I could get back and forth to school. It was an old classic Mustang. I think I spent more time under the hood than in the books. Anyway, I graduated college while learning to repair cars.

Fast forward many years later. We were shopping on eBay for a Mustang and found one. The owner’s wife told the husband either the car goes or I go, but we’re both not staying.

The car left to come to our house. We towed it home and began working on it. One of my favorite memories was the day we painted it with 24 cans of aerosol paint. There was a cloud of blue smoke coming out of my garage. We had a blast!

Several years later we were at the auto show. The three of us found a pair of rims that would fit the Mustang. Even though they needed work, we bought them. Unfortunately, they ended up sitting in the shed for five years.

Two weeks before Christmas, I receive a call from my oldest son who said, “Where is the pressure washer?” (It’s never good when they won’t tell you why.) For three days, they scrubbed, sanded and stripped those rims and then then they painted them. On Christmas Day, they presented them to me.

I was speechless. They looked fabulous.

A few days later, I was at the tire store where my son works.

He arranged to have new tires mounted on the rims. He installed them on the car and we took it for a test drive. It was not a surprise when the car rode much smoother on those new tires than it had on tires that were 16 years old. The car looked amazing!

I sent him a text saying the following: “I just want you to know how much I love you – not for the rims – yes that is an incredible gift. I am deeply touched by the thought and effort that went into it. I just love you because I do.”

Silence; it was the one text he never replied to.

Yes, I know this is the time of year to tell that special person in your life, “I love you”. Do that. Also remember that your children, regardless of their age need to hear those same special words.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 8

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Banner-News Crime Reports Partnership for Children of

Stanley man arrested Lincoln & Gaston counties news in Shelby robbery

On February 3, 2015 at approximately 11:27 a.m. the Shelby Police Department responded to Walmart located at 703 E. Dixon Blvd. in reference to a Strong Arm Robbery. Upon the officers arrival they spoke with the victim who stated that while walking to his vehicle in the parking lot he was attacked and knocked to the ground.

The suspect then robbed him of an undisclosed amount of money before jumping into a white passenger car and leaving. Information obtained at

Gonzales

the scene indicated that the suspect vehicle was occupied by three black males.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. officers from the Shelby Police Department attempted to stop the suspect vehicle on Grover Street. A vehicle pursuit ensued after the driver refused to stop. The pursuit ended outside the city limits with the only occupant inside the vehicle being taken into custody. The driver, Christian Charles Campbell of 2140 June Dellinger Road in Stanley, was arrested

and charged with Common Law Robbery and Assault Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury. He was placed in the Cleveland County Detention Center under a secured $35,000.00 bond.

Warrants have also been secured on Robert Lamont Sutton of 128 Hillcrest Drive in Shelby and Tykee Romar Johnson of 1 Hilton Head Court in Piedmont, SC for Common Law Robbery and Assault Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury.

Meth arrest on I-85

Gaston County police arrested a Hickory man last Tuesday for possession of 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamines worth $225,000.

According to police, Cayetano Gonzales, 28, was stopped for a traffic violation on I85 South near Lowell when the meth was discovered. A K9 helped in the investigation.

Gonzales was placed in Gaston County jail under $200,000 bond. He is charged with Trafficking methamphetamines, Possession of Sch. IV with intent to manufacture, sell, distribute, Conspire to traffic methamphetamines.

By Amy Wadsworth Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties Children need a report. This is a great example demonstrating strong start to be suc- how North Carolina and Smart Start local partcessful in school and nerships continue to find innovative ways to life. As child educators ensure children are given the strong start they and parents we know need for success in school and life.

Want to learn more? Visit www.investinus. how true this is.

In response to the org. You can even take a personal pledge to President’s call for ac- be one of the thousands of Americans who betion to expand access to lieve our nation should invest in providing a high-quality preschool high quality early education: https://investinus.

Amy Wadsworth for every child in Amer- org/take-the-challenge/personal-pledge/.

Read the playbook here: http://www.whiteica, there is a launch of a new initiative called “Invest in Us,” created by the First Five Years house.gov/sites/default/files/docs/playbook_ Fund. This bipartisan non-profit organization for_becoming_an_early_learning_community. is striving to build a better nation by expanding pdf. Learn about Smart Start here: http://www. high-quality early childhood education pro- smartstart.or.g Texas Roadhouse Fundraising Night is on grams for children from birth through age five.

So far it’s working. As of the end of Janu- Monday, February 23 from 4-8 p.m., Texas ary, Invest in Us is celebrating $340,769 in Roadhouse, 1863 Remount Road (Behind the new private funding to support early childhood Hampton Inn). Come join us.

The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & education.

This is great news for organizations such Gaston Counties will receive 10 percent of this as Smart Start to have this momentum at the cause when you bring this flyer located on our website: http://www.pfclg.com/images/docunational level.

A great quote was said by President Barack ments/Fundraiser.jpg Please present it the evening of the event Obama at the 2014 State of the Union Address: “I’m going to pull together a coalition of when you visit Texas Roadhouse. This way elected officials, business leaders and philan- we will receive 10 percent of your total food thropists willing to help more kids access the purchases.

Want to learn more about the Partnership high-quality pre-K they need,” he said.

One of Smart Start’s 77 Partnerships was for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties?

The Partnership for Children of Lincoln included in the “playbook” released by the White House as part of the effort. The “play- & Gaston Counties is your local Smart Start book” outlines a six-step process to implement agency. You can reach us at 704-922-0900 or a plan. Congratulations to PFC of Cumberland visit us online at www.pfclg.com. Our vision is County who was one of only 12 organizations/ a community where young children will reach communities across the country included in the their health and educational potential.

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation awards $25,000 to Gaston Together

Trustees of the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation have awarded a grant to support Gaston Together as it develops a leadership program for adults ages 25-40 in Gaston County. The Communities of Excellence program is designed to provide participants with the information and skills they need to be civic leaders, as well as to provide them with the tools they need to develop new and innovative ways of attracting more young people to the County. Gaston Together is comA traffic stop near Hickory Grove and Kelly roads a mile mitted to bringing diverse communities together to develop space for ideas and collaboration. or so from Stanley resulted in the discovery of 352 pounds of “The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation believes in investing in the next generation of leaders marijuana valued at $1.6 million and the arrest of Mohamed across the state, especially at the community level,” said Leslie Winner, Executive Director of Amir Eller, 41, of Gastonia on charges of trafficking, possessthe Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. “Gaston Together is developing an innovative pathway for ing, and manufacturing marijuana. He was placed in Gaston Gaston County’s emerging leaders to stay and remain civically engaged in the County, which is Eller County jail under $500,000 secured bond.

According to Gaston County police, Eller was driving a van containing the drug. He was a key element in a community’s success and economic vitality. We are proud to partner together to achieve this shared vision.” taken into custody on Jan. 30 by the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office.

The investment from Z. Smith Reynolds will provide Gaston Together the opportunity to explore successful models from other communities during the program development process. It will also advance the organization’s mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change in Gaston The Cramerton Board of Commissioners has revised its upcoming meeting schedule. The budget County.

According to Gaston Together’s 2015 Board Chair Jason Shoemaker, “Gaston Together is meeting scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on February 11, 2015 has been rescheduled to February 24, 2015.

The meeting will be held at Town Hall, 155 North Main Street. If you need an auxiliary aid or other honored to receive a grant from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation to fund leadership developaccommodations in order to attend or fully participate at this meeting, please contact the clerk’s office ment. Gaston Together has proudly supported and fostered leadership development in Gaston County for almost 20 years, and this grant will provide opportunities to accomplish even more.” at 704-824-4337 as far in advance of the meeting as possible so that your request can be considered.

Over 300 pounds of pot found during traffic stop

Cramerton Commissioners reschedule meeting

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Page 9

Banner-News Sports

Zytavius Murrell of Stuart Cramer aims a layup in last week’s 73-50 loss to Hunter Huss.

Photos by Lydia Julen

Stuart Cramer JV player Cameron Lewis goes for a jumper in last week’s Hunter Huss game.

The Storm came up short by a score of 73-50.

Mt. Holly Parks and Recreation sign ups set Mount Holly Parks & Recreation is offering spring baseball sign ups in the following divisions: 5-6 tee-ball, 7-8 coach pitch, 9-10 minors kid pitch, and 11-12 majors kid pitch.

The registration deadline is Friday February 20. Mount Holly Parks & Recreation has registration for its upcoming spring soccer league. The following leagues are available: 9-10 co-ed and 11-13 co-ed. The registration deadline is Friday February 27. Mount Holly

Parks & Recreation is also offering girls volleyball sign ups now through Friday February 27. There will be a 9-11 and 12-15 age group.

For more information on these sign ups call 704-951-3006 or check the website www. mtholly.us.

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Banner-News Sports

South Point loses two in a row

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gamil.com

Before taking the court against Forestview the Red Raiders were looking good. They had a real shot at sewing up the 2nd playoff seed in the Big South 3A/2A. In recent weeks the Red Raiders were making waves winning five of their last eight games. Then the Red Raiders hit a rock. South Point lost two in a row against Forestview and Lake Norman Charter. They still have a shot at a playoff slot. But there is now no room for error.

Against Forestview, South Point was cruising along in the first half. At half time South Point was up 28 to 14. It looked like they were going to get past the Jaguars. But at the minutes started to close on the 3rd period Forestview got hot.

“That was a tough one,” South Point head coach Kody Kubbs said. “We were up by 20 with 3 1/2 minutes to go in the 3rd period. They started to attack our zone.”

The Forestview attack was furious. In the 4th period the Jags outscored the Red Raiders 35-15. South Point just didn’t have an answer to counter what Forestview did. A normally tough South Point defense started to get pushed around.

“It got intense on rebounds,” Kubbs said.

“If it could go wrong it did. They jumped all over us.”

As the game started to wind down, Forestview started to build up a lead and a small cushion. South Point lost 64-55.

Brandon Reeves continued to be South Points top offensive performer. Reeves had

21 points and 15 rebounds. JT Starr had a good game as well. Starr had 16 points.

Lake Norman, another collapse.

The Lake Norman Charter/South Point game turned out to be similar to the Forestview deal. The Red Raiders played tough in the first half only to see things get away from them in the second half.

“We went in at the half down four,” coach Kubbs said. “It was 37-34 at the half.”

In the second half of the game South Point just couldn’t get it going. On the other hand the Knights poured it on.

“Lake Norman shot 13 of 23 in the second half,” Kubbs said. “We were 4 for 25.”

The Knights and the Red Raiders had the same scoring opportunities. But South Point just failed to hit their shots. On the day South Point missed 23 shots in the paint. shots like that have to be made.

Defensively South point mixed it up. they tried to work a zone defense but that didn’t work.

“They penetrated our zone so we went mostly man.” Kubbs said, referring to a man to man defense.

No matter what they did it turned out not to matter. It was Lake Norman’s night and they won 79-52.

Despite the back to back loses South Point has a shot at taking the second play off seed.

But they will need help. To get that final play off spot the Red Raiders need to beat North Gaston and Stuart Cramer. Then they need to see what happens with Forestview. If Forestview wins their final two games against East Gaston and Lake Norman they get the shot.

Blake Zieske of South Point aims a layup in last week’s Lake Norman Charter game.

South Point’s Diontrea King goes for a rebound in last week’s 79-52 loss to Lake Norman Charter.

Red Raider Jacob Justice goes for a rebound in last week’s game against Lake Norman Charter.

South Point fell shy by a score of 79-52.

Photos by Lydia Julen

Thursday, February 12, 2015

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 11

Banner-News Sports

Photo courtesy Belmont Abbey

Lady Crusaders win seventh straight

East Gaston High player Tyler Price shows his ball handling skills in last week’s game against North Gaston. The Warriors came out on top 59-39.

Photos by Bill Ward

Grady Pearson advances to National Achievement Scholarship Program Grady Pearson, a senior at Gaston Christian High School, has met all the requirements to advance to the Finalist standing in the 2015 National Achievement Scholarship Program.

Pearson has participated in Gaston Christian’s Mock Trial program for four years, is a member of the National Beta Club and the National Honor Society, and is actively involved in the Gaston Christian Players. A member at First ARP Church, Grady is the son of Charlie and Helene Pearson of Gastonia.

East Gaston’s Raven Brooks makes a shot in the North Gaston game. Brooks and her teammates pulled off a 74-63 win.

The Belmont Abbey women’s basketball team shot a season-high 56 percent from the field as senior forward McKenzie Owen led all scorers with 20 points as the Crusaders extended their winning streak to seven with a 72-57 win over the visiting Converse College Valkyries last Saturday. Belmont Abbey improves to 15-8 overall and 11-6 in Conference Carolinas.

Gabrielle Bethel, who finished with 15 points, hit 11 in the first half as she made all four of her field goal attempts and swished three of four from the free throw line. The Crusaders forced 11 turnovers and limited Converse to 30 percent shooting from the field.

Caitlyn Ranson gave the Crusaders their largest lead of the game with a three pointer at the 1:21 mark of first half, which extended the lead to 19 at 43-24. Her basket capped a 27-11 run that effectively ended the game.

The Crusaders outscored Converse 32-29 in the second half but the Valkyries never cut their deficit to any fewer than 11 points. Owen scored 12 of her points in the second half on four of five shooting.

For the game, Owen netted 20 points on 8-11 shooting with two assists, two steals and a blocked shot. Bethel added 15 points, nine rebounds and a blocked shot. Briana Grier and Morgan Midkiff both handed out five assists as 20 of the Abbey’s 25 baskets were assisted.

Local students named to dean’s lists Clemson Dean’s List

Sports Trivia Night held More than 90 dads and students attended Lingerfeldt Elementary School’s first-ever dinner and sports trivia night organized by parent involvement specialist Thressia Greer.

Families used Chromebooks to participate in the event through the online app Kahoot! with the team scores displayed on the SMART Board. The media center was decorated with sports posters for the evening, and more than 25 prizes were given out to winning teams, including neckties, razors and shaving cream, cash, scarves and hats for the students.

Gaston County Schools photo.

Several local students have been named to the Clemson University Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student achieved a grade-point average between 3.50 and 3.99 on a 4.0 scale.

The students are: Raiya Aleena Feinberg of Belmont, who is majoring in Biological Sciences; Charles W. Gallman III of Gastonia, who is majoring in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology; Kaitlyn Brooke Huffstetler of Gastonia, who is majoring in Nursing; Brandon Grier Kiser of Gastonia, who is majoring in Genetics; Chandler Lee Gibbs of Mc Adenville, who is majoring in Civil Engineering.

Coastal Carolina Dean’s List Approximately 2,125 students have made the Fall 2014 Dean’s List for academic achievement at Coastal Carolina University.

Local students include: Harrison Frye, a Freshman majoring in Exercise and Sport Science, of Gastonia; Evan Yeargan, a Senior majoring in Marine Science, of Belmont.

Coastal Carolina University is a dynamic, public comprehensive liberal arts institution located in Conway, just minutes from the resort area of Myrtle Beach, S.C. The University offers 67 areas of study toward the baccalaureate degree and eight master’s degree programs in accountancy, business administration, education, marine and wetland studies, and writing. The University is offering its first Ph.D. program, in marine science, in fall 2014.

Rhyne on Washington and Lee Dean’s List William Rhyne of Belmont, a member of the class of 2018 at Washington and Lee University, has earned dean’s list status for the recently ended fall term 2014. Dean’s list status at Washington and Lee represents a term grade-point average of at least 3.4 on a 4.0 scale.

Page 12

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Banner-News School Happenings

Science fair winner takes pride in seeing her student win in 2015 Seven years ago, Jennifer Del Castillo won the first-ever Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Now, as a first-year teacher at Belmont Middle School, she is able to share the honor with one of her students.

Seventh grader Ryan Proud took home the middle school prize during the 2015 science and engineering fair held Saturday, January 10 at the Schiele Museum.

His award-winning project was titled “The Fastest Way to Cool a Soda.”

“It was very exciting,” Del Castillo said. “I am pleased with the work he put into his project.”

Early in the school year, Del Castillo encouraged her students to consider entering the science and engineering fair. Proud took up the challenge and was the only student to see his project through to completion, spending hours at home doing research, conducting the Belmont Middle School teacher Jennifer Del Castillo won the firstexperiment, and writing a six-page summary paper.

He discovered that the fastest way to cool a can ever Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair seven years ago. of soda is to put it in an ice water bath with salt. This This year, her student, Ryan Proud, earned the science fair’s top prize method beat out the freezer, refrigerator, an ice bath for the middle school competition.

Gaston Schools Photo and ice water.

“Salt lowers the water’s freezing point,” he exin AP (Advanced Placement) Biology at Ashbrook High plained.

Del Castillo said she gave Proud advice about how to dis- School experimented with what type of drink worked best cuss his project with the science fair judges. Otherwise he when taking extended-release medications.

Proud said he had fun with his project and is already comworked independently, from researching and developing a hypothesis to conducting the actual experiment and writing ing up with experiment ideas for next year.

Del Castillo said she hopes more of her students will be the final paper.

Conducting a science project helps students to learn and able to participate in the science and engineering fair next develop their research skills, said Del Castillo, recalling her year. experience in the 2009 competition. She and two classmates

Miss South Point Scholarship pageant set for February 21st South Point High School will hold its annual Miss South Point Scholarship Pageant on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at 7:00 pm in the Gerald Cortner Auditorium at the school. Tickets are available in the school office for $8 and will be on sale at the door on the night of the pageant.

The pageant will be hosted by Mr. David Grimes, a teacher at South Point, and Miss Christina Benedict, the reigning Miss South Point.

Contestants in this year’s pageant are: Madison Canterberry, a junior, who is the daughter of Anthony and Melissa Canterberry.

Madison’s talent presentation will be a tap dance.; Kennedy Concannon, a senior, who is the daughter of Scott and Jan Concannon.

Kennedy’s talent presentation will be a jazz dance; Scarlet Fretwell, a senior, who is the daughter of Mark and Robin Fretwell. Scarlet’s talent presentation will be a vocal performance; Taylor Foulk, a senior, who is the daughter of Lance and Leslie Foulk. Taylor will be clogging for her talent presentation; Olivia Foy, a senior, who is the daughter of Kerr and Rebecca Foy. Olivia’s talent presentation will be a contemporary dance; Brice Helton, a senior, who is the daughter of Brian and Tieka Helton. Brice’s talent presentation will be a vocal performance; Tanisha Johnson, a senior, who is the daughter of Jill Johnson and Cindy Scruggs Johnson. Tanisha’s talent presentation will be a lyrical dance; Hannah King, a junior, who is the daughter of Mark and Christee King. Hannah’s talent presentation will be a vocal and guitar performance; Kelsey Kinnett, a senior, who is the daughter of Kelly and Jennifer Kinnett. Kelsey’s talent presentation will be a vocal and piano performance; Gabriella Porter, a senior, who is the daughter of Brian and Brenda Porter. Gabriella’s talent presentation will be a violin performance; Christie Stuckey, a junior, who is the daughter of Chris and Wendi Stuckey. Christie’s talent presentation will be a jazz dance; Kayla Wooten, a senior, who is the daughter of Terry and Beverly Wooten. Kayla’s talent presentation will be a color guard performance.

Contestants will compete in the areas of interview, talent presentation, fashion wear, and evening wear. Approximately $9,500 will be awarded in scholarship money.

Gabriella Porter

Kayla Wooten

Kennedy Concannon

Christie Stuckey

Madison Canterberry

Scarlett Fretwell

Taylor Foulk

Olivia Foy

Brice Helton

Tanisha Johnson

Hannah King

Kelsey Kinnett

Gaston County Schools photo

South Point DECA students participate in competition More than 150 South Point High School DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) students participated in a competition in Lincolnton, earning high scores and awards in the categories of Quick Serve Restaurant, Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Apparel and Accessories Marketing, and Principles of Marketing.

Finalists and winners were Samy Abouseria, Nicholas Ashe, Morgan Bryant, Walker Featherston, Jessica Helton, Zach Mosteller, Kaylee Thagard, Parker Thorneburg, Kendall Thorneburg, Mikayla Withers, Madison Canterberry, Madison Rollins, Bailey Thomasson, Kristen Whitson, Jarrett Cooper, Carson Potter, Clay Julen, Trevor Pace, and Trevor Stryker.

Also earning high scores were Dakota Bartish, Sean Chauthry, Max Neisler, Breanna Floyd, Taylor Foulk, Logan Hobson, Hannah Keel, Victoria McAlister, Addie McElveen, Vallie Dulin, Ryan Furukawa, Rosy Huynh, Claire Turner, Yale Loucks, Susannah Pennington, and Sanval Ali.

State releases annual report card for Gaston County Schools The N.C. Department of Public Instruction released on Thursday (February 5) the State School Report Card for Gaston County Schools for the 2013-2014 academic year.

The annual report card includes important information about student attendance and academic achievement, class size, instructional technology, teacher quality, school safety, and other topics.

The complete report card for Gaston County Schools is available (in English and Spanish) on the North Carolina School Report Cards website: www.ncpublicschools.org/src.

The website includes report card information for each school, the school district, the state, and other North Carolina public schools. No individual student information is included. The School Report Cards are required by the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).

In addition to the report card for Gaston County Schools, the state released a report card for each school (grades 3-12).

For the first time ever, the school report card includes a School Performance Grade. The grade is based on student achievement (test scores) and student growth (progress over the course of one school year) information released in September 2014.

The School Performance Grade is part of the new READY state accountability and testing program implemented by the N.C. General Assembly in 2012-2013. It replaces the designations (Honor School of Excellence, School of Excellence, School of Distinction, School of Progress, No Recognition, and Low-Performing School) that schools received in past years under the ABCs of Public Education state program.

Superintendent of Schools W. Jeffrey Booker stated, “Assigning a letter grade to a school is intended to make it easier for the public to understand how the school is performing.

However, it is important to point out that only select criteria are used to determine the grade. Factors such as school size, diverse student population, socioeconomics, teacher experience, student learning obstacles, special programs, and parental and community involvement have an effect on a school’s performance, but are not considered in the School Performance Grade.”

“It is extremely important for parents and the community to consider all factors for a school to determine how well the school is performing,” added Booker. “When you look at our test results for the 2013-2014 academic year, they show that more Gaston County students are achieving proficiency and more schools are achieving academic growth. We are seeing academic progress under the READY state testing program and we expect our schools to continue to improve over the next few years.”

A summary or snapshot of the state report card for Gaston County Schools was sent home to parents on Friday, February 6. Parents also received a summary of the state report card for their child’s school.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Page 13

Banner-News School Happenings

Ida Rankin Elementary students of the month

Ida Rankin Elementary School, Mt. Holly, has announced its Principals Pride and Students of the Month for January. The Character Trait of the Month Focus was Integrity/Honesty.

Principals Pride Winners Fifth Grade: School Principal - Kristin Kiser with Madi Blanton, Josh Oxendine, Aiden Cloninger, and Austin Davis.

Principals Pride Winners First Grade: School Principal - Kristin Kiser with Anna Broome, Camryn Clawson, Kent Kido, and Isaiah Worley. Not pictured - Calvin Winchester.

Principals Pride Winners Fourth Grade: School Principal - Kristin Kiser with Luke McGinnis, Bryan Tran, Madeline Hope, Alyssa Lodato.

Principals Pride Winners Second Grade: School Principal Kristin Kiser with Dana Thomas, Abigail Wright, Corey Holloway, Jada Charles, and Ridge Nixon.

Principals Pride Winners Third Grade: School Principal - Kristin Kiser with Sage Marsh, Mikala Johnson, Monica Coria, Sarah Herzberg, and Madison McGinnis.

Principals Pride Winners Kindergarten: School Principal Kristin Kiser with Jaden Simpson-Moore, Avery Robnett, Mia Morton, Emmie Rushing, and Diksha Sharma.

Fourth Grade: Kaiden McCorkle, Ty’Qwailyn Cunningham, Sean Dutton, and Addison Davis.

Fifth Grade: Bailey Short, Breanna Allen, Sara Painter, and Jayda Foster.

First Grade: Maxwell Gambrell, Kailey Null, Kemara Horton, Brianna Tadlock, and Karter Johnson.

Kindergarten: Jocelyn Sexton, Gracie Crisp, Addison Kirby, Lydia Tench, and Leslie Uscanga.

Second Grade: Parker Miller, Nola Garton, Owen Mach, Hayden Mauldin, and Miranda McKenzy.

Third Grade: Santiago Colon Ruiz, Taelan Whit- “Do The Right Thing Winner” - Carter ley, Micah Harrison, and Leilani Clark.

Jessen.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 14

Banner-News School Happenings

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Gaston Christian School spirit week Students and teachers at Gaston Christian School enjoyed sharing their creativity and reaching way back into closets for long-forgotten clothes during their recent Spirit Week. The week was sponsored by the middle school SGA and coincided with the Souper Bowl of Caring led by the Junior Beta Club. Gaston Christian School students from preschool through 12th grade donated non-perishable food items to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

Flying Eagle Friday

Gaston Christian collects donations for Second Harvest Food Bank Gaston Christian School students from preschool through 12th grade recently donated nonperishable food items to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. In conjunction with Souper Bowl of Caring, the students donated over 2,800 food items.

Gaston Christian School photo

Way Back

Page Primary School Students of the month for January 2015 Page Primary School in Belmont, has announced its Students of the Month for January. The Character Trait was good judgment. Bottom row left to right- K- O. Teders, I. Turner, K. McClellan, A. Michael, B. Fortenberry, D. Theel, J. Thompson (not pictured S. Tripplet) Top row left to right 1st grade- J. Shaw, S. Morgan, M. Grice, H. Rodden, T. Taylor-Bolan, M. Wells, R. Walls (not pictured B. Nixon).

Tacky Tuesday

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Homes for Rent/Lease MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTAIN-Prices starting at $100/week. Call 704-739-4417 or (evening) 704-739-1425. (tfn)

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Wanted CASH ON THE SPOT! Will buy tools, riding lawn mowers or building full of merchandise, pictures or anything of value.

Will also buy musical instruments. Call: 704-300-0827 or 704-300-7676. (02/11)

Help Wanted David Baptist Church in Kings Mountain is looking for a parttime 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)

CLASSIFIEDS WORK!

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)

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