Issuu

Page 1

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Montcross Chamber hosts county commission candidates forum By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

With the March 15 statewide primary election looming, local politicos got their chance last Thursday to answer questions during a forum for Gaston County commission candidates. The event was sponsored by the Montcross Chamber of Commerce and took place in the auditorium on the Kimbrell Campus Gaston College in Belmont. A standing room only crowd turned out to hear the back and forth. The nine candidates actively seeking a seat on the county commission showed up at the talk and listen. Four seats are up for grabs. This included Lewis B. Guignard Jr. from Cherryville Township; Bob Hovis and Robert Crouch from Crowders Mtn. Township; Donnie Loftis, Dave Wofford, Jerry Woods, and Don Grant from Gastonia Township; Mickey Price and Ronnie Worley from South Point Township. Incorporated communities in South Point Township are Belmont, Cramerton, McAdenville, Lowell, southern Mt. Holly, and southeastern Gastonia. The township also includes theuunicorporated area of Brown Town. The forum moderator was Brad Rivers, direc-

tor of the Small Business Center at Gaston College. Timekeeper was Robert Aldrich, owner, Aldrich CFO Services. Fast talking was the order of the evening. Each forum participant was given 90 seconds to introduce themselves and to make a closing case for their candidacy. They were given 60 seconds to answer each one of the 14 question posed by the moderator. The range of questions put to the candidates was broad and deep. Topics focused on the state of Gaston County's infrastructure, tax base, transportation, school bonds, economic development, employment opportunities, and growth management. Taxes got a lot of attention. Most agreed that the decline in the textile industry had hurt the county. “We need to broaden the tax base to include more retail and small business,” said Worley. “We need to look at our economic development strategy. Price declared that to attract more businesses to Gaston, there had to be places for them to locate.

County Commission incumbent Mickey Price (left) and challenger Cramerton mayor RonSee CANDIDATES page 2 nie Worley are vying for the South Point Township seat. Photo by Alan Hodge

Mt. Holly Historical Society museum growing by leaps and bounds By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Volunteers and officers of the Mt. Holly Historical Society have been working hard to expand the museum's space as well as its artifact collection at 131 S. Main and it shows. The MHHS will be holding an open house and Founder's Day event Sunday, March 13 from 2-4pm and at that time take the opportunity to premiere a totally new room outfitted with parlor type items including a 19th century, square piano-forte. The piano was purchased for Susan Rhyne by her father, Moses Rhyne, as a gift for Susan's returning home in Mount Holly to look after her sisters and brother after their mother had died. The piano was manufactured in 1859 in Baltimore, MaryMt. Holly Historical society president Garrie Brinkley and treasurer/collections coSee chair Marian Vanni are seen with some new artifacts that were recently donated HISTORICAL SOCIETY to the museum. Photo by Alan Hodge page 3

Because we

Stowe Park getting upgrades By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

On the Belmont recreation scene the new Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park currently under construction on Catawba St. has been getting a lot of attention, but venerable Stowe Park on S. Main has recently been receiving some much needed TLC. For the past couple of weeks city crews have been erecting orange construction barrier fencing, dumping dirt at the park, and using it to rebuild embankments. “We’re trying to stabilize that steep embankment between south end cherry trees and the steps leading down to the park,” said public works director David Isenhour. “The kids pretty much have destroyed this area with their dirt bikes so council requested that we try and repair.” According to Isenhour, about 150 tons of new dirt has been hauled to the park for the job. After the bulldozer and front end loader finish reinforcing and shaping the embankments, it will be time for landscaping. “Once they finish the embankment we’ll have a landscaping contractor come in and plant ground cover to help stabilize and beautify the new area,” said Isenhour. We’ll also be installing three new park benches on the newly improved sidewalk edging like the ones on the upper end.” In addition to the embankment work, another area of Stowe Park also got some attention. “There is a spring that runs constantly down near the playground area and it was always mucky and wet,” Isenhour said. “ The contractor installed a new French drain and tied it in to the existing storm drain to eliminate the wetness. The work is being funded through our Stormwater Department.” Altogether the projects costs are around $12,000.00 not counting the new benches and concrete pads. Stowe Park officially opened on July 4, 1951 and was the idea of Robert Lee Stowe Jr. Attractions included a Ferris wheel, carousel, “mile-high” sliding boards, a concession stand, movies in the amphitheater, and most popular See STOWE PARK page 6

our heroes.

For 25 years, the Fisher House Foundation program has provided a "home away from home" for military and veteran families. Show your support by visiting www.ﬁsherhouse.org This message is provided by Banner-News and PaperChain.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 2

Thursday, March 10, 2016

CANDIDATES From page 1 “We need shovel ready land,” he said. The issue of getting to and from Charlotte/ Douglas International Airport was delved into and several candidates opined the need for another bridge across the Catawba south of Belmont. “The airport is the biggest driver we have,” said Price. One of the questions was whether or not the candidates would accept insurance from the county if elected. Each one said “no”. Another issue that got a unanimous “yes” from the candidates was the question of whether or not to release the $40 million in

unallocated school bond monies now so that school construction and refurbishment could get going now. Overall, the forum was a great success and it should be noted that all candidates comported themselves as gentlemen and no references were made to hand size, tan, hair, or anything else of a derogatory nature. For those who missed it, the forum is available on YouTube. Image Design TV Productions and Hawkeye Aerial Photography teamed up to provide the video. Here's the link:.https://youtu.be/lQ2XqcsYWLs

Little Free Library is being dedicated to the Belmont Community Garden A Little Library is being dedicated to the Belmont Community Garden this Friday, March 11 at 4:30 pm. It was donated and built by the Jim Bansen Family. Jim states “My wife Allison and I ran across a Little Library while traveling in Oregon and loved the idea. It inspired such a great sense of community that we felt downtown Belmont would be a natural fit.” Also one of the hosts of the community garden, the Gaston family chose to donate the space closer to the Main Street sidewalk. “The grassy area was donated by Curtis Gaston in honor of his mother, Kitty, an avid reader and longtime Belmont resident." The Little Library was painted in Dr Suess style, artistic effort donated by Anouk Valentine, owner of Creative Creations by You on Catawba St. This is not only Belmont’s first Little Library, it is also Gaston County’s first official one as well. The Charter # for the Little Library is #34841 with the Little Library FounLittle Library donated by the Jim Bansen Famdation. http://littlefreelibrary.org ily. Photo Provided The Belmont Community Gardens is a 501c3 non-profit community garden effort with a handful of hearty supporters. The professionally designed garden has been a collaboration of citizen sweat equity. Members are composters, food growers and rainwater harvesters and hope to share our passion with the Belmont Community. The garden

has two plots dedicated to Page Elementary, four plots to Belmont Central for educational purposes and also two plots to for the supported employees of Cherubs Café and Candy Bouquet by Holy Angels to learn the art of gardening while caring for plants and produce that will be used at Cherubs Café. The garden page: facebook.com/growingbelmont.

Mended Hearts meeting Mended Hearts Chapter #379 will have their monthly meeting at 5:45pm Monday March 14th in the Elm Room at CaroMont Medical Center, 2525 Court Dr, Gastonia. They will be making final plans for chapter participation in the Run For The Money 2016 to be held Saturday April 16th in downtown Gastonia (all money raised will go to the Mended Hearts #379 Gary A. Mims Scholarship Fund...to help those furthering their nursing careers). All members are encouraged to attend. There will be no cardiac support meeting this month. Members please don't forget to attend Walk With A Doc at 9:00am on Saturday March 19th at Eastridge Mall, meeting at the food court.

Bill Ward Photography ACE Sports & Action Photography Specializing in photography of all genre of action

"If it moves - I'll shoot it!"

Also: Special Events, Group Events, Outdoor Portraiture, Small Weddings & More

www.BWASAP.com Call or text 704-880-0705 • email: willyace@twave.net

All of of the county commission candidates are seen ready to answer questions at last Thursday's forum. Montcross Chamber photos

The large crowd listened attentively to the county commission candidates during the forum.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

©Community First Media

AND TELL A FRIEND!

2016 Accord Sedan CVT LX

Several In Stock Come in for a test drive! The All New redesigned

2016 Honda Civic Sedan is here!

Several In Stock Come in for a test drive! Call for price

Call for price

F7864A

F1401P

2013 Hyundai Accent GLS

2014 Jeep Compass

4 cyl., auto., only 42K miles.

Leather, sunroof, upgraded stereo system, My touch screen.

8,995

Call for price

2005 Honda CRV EX

F7818B

7797AA

2006 Hyundai Sonata Ltd. V6, auto., leather, sunroof, great car!

V6, auto., PW & L, great deal!

Call for price

2007 Dodge Ram SLT

F1412P

Low miles, V8 Hemi, auto., one owner.

7,995

2008 Nissan Sentra 4 cyl., auto., 4 door, great car!

onda Open 24 Hours A Day @

forestcityhondanc.com 284 DANIEL ROAD, FOREST CITY, NC 828-286-2614

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Sale Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30AM-7PM Sat 9AM-6PM Excludes taxes, titles, dealer fees. See dealer for details.

forestcityhondanc.com cityhondanc.c • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com

forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com

forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com • forestcityhondanc.com

Page 3

HISTORICAL SOCIETY From page 1 Sunday, March 13, Free land and was shipped to memorable events, the Great Charleston, SC. It was deliv- Flood of 1916, will be a fea- Special Event, Founders’ ered to its Mount Holly home tured presentation on July Day, New Exhibit Unveiling, by wagon from Charleston. 16th when the MHHS will Time: 2-4PM. It is thought to be the first highlight a room filled with Tuesday, April 26, Free piano in Gaston County. memorabilia, photos, and Monthly Program, “History The new room has been other materials related to that of the Mt. Holly Police Degetting a lot of work recently, catastrophe. partment”, Time: 7PM. but throughout last year the But beyond the treasures Tuesday, May 24, Free MHHS also improved and on view in the various muMonthly Program, “Mundy added many new items to its seum rooms is the overriding House Restoration” by Jason artifacts and archives. theme of the place. Harpe, Ex. Director To begin with, thanks to 'We are trying to tell the Lincoln Co. Historical the City of Mt. Holly, the mu- story oof Mt. Holly, not just seum will have available to it display items,” says MHHS Assn., Time: 7PM. Tuesday, June 28, Free an adjoining space known as president Garrie Brinkley. the City Hall Annex. AccordHowever, that doesn't Monthly Program, “Mt. ing to MHHS treasurer and mean the society isn't activ- Holly Oral Histories”, Time: collections co-chair Marian ley seeking more stuff. 7PM. Vanni, the extra space will Saturday, July 16, 100th “It's a challenge to collect eventually feature a doctor's more items,” Brinkley said. Anniversary of the Great office display as well as the The coming months and Flood of 1916 Special Event, society's library. years will see the museum Time: TBA, Location: TBA. In the main building, grow even more. Ideas for fuTuesday, July 26, Free several displays have had ture displays include themes Monthly Program, “The materials added. The “Mill such as a country store or Great Flood” by Mike BaxRoom” has two screens kitchen from days past. ter from CPCC, Time: 7PM. where folks can sit down and “There's so much we want Tuesday, August 23, Free look at PDF files of articles to do,” said Vanni. “But it Monthly Program, Annual about local textile factories. takes time to do it right.” Business Meeting, Time: The Mill Room also has one MHHS museum, 131 S. 7PM. whole wall covered with a Main. Hours of operation: Tuesday, September 27, huge four-panel photo of Saturdays 10am-1pm, phone American Finishing Plant 704-951-3046, mhhistorical- Free Monthly Program, workers dated 1938. society@gmail.com, www. “Miss Ida Rankin”, Time: The “Military Room” has mounthopllynchistoricalcso- 7PM, photos of Mt. Holly soldiers, ciety.org. Also on Facebook Tuesday, October 25, Free sailors, and airmen from a and Twitter. Monthly Program, “Catawba variety of conflicts as well as The Mt. Holly Historical Nation” by Becky Garris, uniforms and accouterments. Society has scheduled the Time: 7PM. The “Barber Shop” room Friday, November 11, following events for 2016. has had a recent addition in Veterans Day Program, Unless noted all events are at the form of a display honorTime: TBA, Location: TBA. the museum, ing African-America barber Dock Byars who came to Mt. Holly in the 1930s and set up shop. Another room has church-related items including a pew from First Presbyterian Church, two organs, and a bible dated 1874 donated by Father John Hoover. This 1859 piano, perhaps the first in Gaston County, is the centerpiece for a One of Mt. new collection that will be unveiled at the Mt. Holly Historical Society muHolly's most seum on Sunday, March 13th from 2-4pm. Photo by Alan Hodge

Opinions...

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 4

Donald Trump is not Barack Obama By Glenn Mollette

Lots of comments are flying about Donald Trump's vocabulary. Some of the conversation has been about his lack of vocabulary. Others have pointed out that he is uncouth and crude in his speech. Others have noted that Trump tells it like it is, holding nothing back, saying whatever comes to his mind or speaking from his heart. Some on social media have commented they don't want a President who cannot communicate more articulately or smoother than what Trump does. I have to note that we have a smooth President by the name of Barack Obama. I personally think that he uses the teleprompter as well as anybody I've ever seen. Or, when he has time to master his content he can release his words in a very convincing manner. I don't see that there is much debate on our current President's ability to deliver a high powered speech. On the other hand we've all heard the President at press conferences "hem and hah," searching for the right words to say when answering a question or speaking impromptu. On July 27, 2004, then U.S. Senator Obama delivered the keynote speech at the Democratic convention in Boston. On that Tuesday evening he spoke masterfully. He delivered a rousing speech that was smooth, powerful, convincing which elevated his status as the new rising star in the Democratic convention. At that time I said to several people that Barack Obama was on his way to being President of the United States and I was right. Almost twelve years later not as many Americans are overly impressed with our President. Many hate Obamacare. Some feel Obama loves Muslims more than Christians. Others see Obama leading the charge to take guns away from everyday Americans. Others feel that he has mistreated Israel and the list of course goes on and on. Some of these same people who dislike President Obama are now criticizing Trump for his inability to deliver the kind of speech that we would have heard from John Kennedy, Ronald Reagan or our current President. Donald Trump is Donald Trump. If he makes it he will not be a slick podium orator. He will most likely say what he is thinking and probably do it without a teleprompter. Often when a speech is delivered unwritten or without the aid of a teleprompter it will come across as unprepared. Whether we like it or not this is another reason why Trump has done so well. He is not the typical polished, political statesman and that chaffs some people, but millions more love it. We will not get everything we want in one human being. Everybody is different. Obama is a suave, fit, articulate man who has done what few will ever accomplish. He became President of the United States. Trump is not Barack Obama or similar to anybody we've elected in recent years and because of that he may very well win.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Yours, Ours, Others My Opinion: Self driving cars are here

You learn something out of everything, and you come to realize more than ever that we're all here for a certain space of time, and, and then it's going to be over, and you better make this count. -Nancy Reagan

Recently I had the opportunity to sit in on a “town hall” type meeting in Stanley featuring NC Rep. John Torbett who is chair of the state Transportation Committee. Torbett touched on a variety of roadway subjects and even mentioned that “self driving” vehicles (or vee-hick-uhls as hinterland folk call them) would be coming in the not so distant future. Well, I am of the opinion they must already be here in profusion because I have seen them in action time and time again. One instance occurred on I-85. I was going at the usual breakneck speed trying to keep up with NASCAR-like traffic, when a woman pulled up beside me and when I looked over, she was eating a bowl of cereal. One hand held the spoon, the other the bowl which was poised atop her fingertips. A drizzle of milk was on her chin. Both hands off the steering wheel. A self driving car. As thick as fleas are the self driving cars I observe passing down N. Main in front of this office- speeding- and a cell phone being held up agin the driver's ear while the other hand digs at a bag of french fries or holds a sandwich of some sort up to their maw. A self driving car. Better yet, or worse as the case may be, is the car that drives itself while the so-called operator is staring at a text or sending one. New car technology could help the current crop of crazed drivers I saw a VW commercial the other day and that firm's latest model had a sensor in the nose that would apply the brakes whenever another vehicle's rear end was too close. If I had a wish it would be that every vehicle should be required to have that feature retrofitted. What this would do is help with the rampant tailgating that is the driving style of the vast majority of people especially on Hickory Grove Rd. Warm weather is just around the corner and we

have had a couple of good tastes of it which means that motorcyclists, including me, will be taking to the roads in droves. There will also Alan Hodge be more mopeds buzzing Banner-News Editor around. Lord, in some locations likker sickles as they are colloquially known are already in such numbers so as to make the roadways look like the streets of Paris or Rome. The other day, I saw a guy load a case of beer on a moped and, placing his feet not on the floorboards but atop his box of wobble pop, take to the road at a blistering 35mph. But that's another story. Back to the bikes. Folks, please keep an eye out for motorcycles. I was riding last week with my pal Calvin and a stupid woman in a mommy van talking on her phone sliced right in between us. Riders, wear something bright like one of those neon green jackets or t-shirts. I have one of each and it makes you stand out a lot more. Needless to say, wear a good helmet. One saved my life when I was 18-years-old and one could save yours too. Riders, refrain from showing off. I have been riding since I was 15 years old and know for a fact that as soon as you think you are the world's greatest moto pilot, you will crash. It is an unwritten rule of the universe. If you want to see some real riding google “Valentino Rossi” but don't ride like him on the street. Well that about wraps it up. Maybe next time I will write something about the current state of politics in the nation but I have to figure out a way to type and hold my nose at the same time- or as Spanky on the Little Rascals said when Dickie tried to give him a dose of worm oil...”nasty”.

Letter to the Editor...

Invest in Gaston and Lincoln’s future on March 15th by voting “YES” for the Connect NC Bond. By UNC Charlotte Chancellor Philip L. Dubois and Gaston College President Patricia A. Skinner North Carolina voters will soon go to the polls for the March 15 primary election. Although the top of the ticket has many important races, we want to make sure all voters consider an issue that is critical to Gaston and Lincoln County voters but which is near the bottom of the ballot. The $2 billion Connect NC bond is vital to the state’s longterm future, providing funding for the UNC system, community colleges, state parks, local water and sewer system improvements, the National Guard, and public safety. Both UNC Charlotte and Gaston College train students for a wide variety of employers across the Carolinas. The demand is growing and we need

a strong, well-trained workforce for the healthcare, energy, advanced manufacturing, and other industries and businesses in our communities. UNC Charlotte has grown from 11,000 students to 28,000 since the current science building was built in 1985. More students are choosing science-related majors, with over 50 percent of students in sciences, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs. Investments across the UNC system are focused on STEM-related buildings including the $90 million science building at UNC Charlotte. Gaston College and UNC Charlotte work together to help students transfer credits to earn their bachelor’s degrees. In any given year, UNC Charlotte admits over 2,100 students from the community colleges, the largest number in the UNC system. Over the past four years, nearly 500 of those students have come

from Gaston College. Nearly 900 students from Gaston County and 400 from Lincoln County are enrolled at UNC Charlotte. Without the new science building, the University will not be able to grow and accommodate the demand from this community. The new science facility also is crucial to meet the high demand for workforce talent by regional employers. Gaston College would receive $5.9 million through this bond package for building a new veterinary technician facility, better the college’s computer network, and reorganize and expand classroom space at the Lincoln campus and areas needed on the Dallas campus. A great example of cooperation is the new Early Entry RN to BSN program which allows eligible Gaston College students to reserve their spot in UNC Charlotte’s online program to

Phone 704-825-0580 Fax 704-825-0894 Ofﬁce: 128-C N Main St. Belmont • NC Published every Thursday • Periodicals postage at Belmont, NC 28012 USPS 049-700 by CF Media Postmaster send address changes to: PO Box 769, Kings Mountain NC 28086 Annual mail subscription rates. Prices include 6.75% NC State Sales Tax Gaston & Cleveland Counties $30 • Other NC Counties $35 • Outside NC $50 Free online subscriptions by request.

ensure a seamless transition from associates degree to earning their bachelor’s in nursing. In high school, Patricia “Trish” Goble always wanted to go to nursing school. She started her education at UNC Charlotte but was forced to quit because of a family situation that required her to stay at home. The next fall she enrolled at Gaston College to take the needed prerequisite courses. While at Gaston, her instructor helped her get an internship and employment at CaroMont, where she worked with a manager who could mentor her and help her complete two years of clinical work. In 2008, Trish graduated with a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing from Gaston College. Although the Associate Degree Nursing program at Gaston College was one of the most challenging, it prepared her for the workforce and future pursuits in education. She enrolled that fall in UNC Char-

Alan Hodge - Editor

lotte. In 2009, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and obtained her master’s in 2014. This coming May, Trish will graduate with a doctorate in nursing earned while still working on the same floor and with the same manager who hired and mentored her at CaroMont. While education is a big part of the story, there are other reasons why voters from the region should support the bond package. The bonds also will benefit agriculture across the state by providing $179 million for agricultural research facilities that are important to our area. Agribusiness remains a significant part of the state’s economic base, and the investment will help area farmers improve yields, become more profitable, create jobs, and improve the tax base. Similarly, the bond package provides $309 million to help county and municipal governPublished by

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

General Operations Manager: Duane Heafner Advertising Representatives: Mark Blanton - Greg Ledford Duane Heafner - Sam Brackett Mayra Littman - Scott Helms - Mike Marlow Distribution: Les Wood - Jason Dockery Circulation/Classiﬁed: Kathy Reynolds ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

IFPA

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

INDEPENDENT FREE PAPERS OF AMERICA

FIRST MEDIA

, INC

“Creating Business For People”

ments fund critical improvements to their water and sewer systems. This is important in helping retain and recruit new industries and commerce to this area and the state. Several communities, including Gastonia, Belmont, Bessemer City, Lowell and Kings Mountain, have benefited from this program in the past. Our state parks and the NC Zoo will also benefit from the bond with $100 million, including $750,000 at Crowders Mountain for parking improvements and expansions at the Linwood and Sparrow Springs Access points. With a 94 percent increase in park attendance since 2013, these updates are critical. And finally, there will be a $70 million investment for new National Guard training facilities. Voters need to know this important initiative will not increase taxes and will do nothing Banner News publisher and its advertisers are not responsible or liable for misprints, typographical errors, misinformation herein contained. We reserve the right to edit, reject or accept any articles, advertisements, or information to be printed in this publication. We will provide ad proofs for pre-paid ads or ads that are placed by established clients. No proofs may leave our premises without payment and permission and are copyright by Community First Media.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher. No individual or business is permitted to place or attach any flyer, poster or any type of advertisement of any kind to our boxes or on our racks. CANCELLATION OR CORRECTION DEADLINE: The cancellation deadline is the same as the order deadline because much of our cost is involved in the production of the ad itself. If you have to cancel an ad after deadline, it may be necessary to charge for the time and materials we’ve already spent on preparing the ad. Display & Classified Deadline is Friday at 12 Noon. APPROVAL: All content is accepted subject to approval by the publisher. ERRORS: We want your ad to be accurate and correct, and normally there will be no errors. However, should there be an error and it is our fault, we will give you a correction letter and return (or give credit) for the actual space occupied by the incorrect item. Of course you should notify us of the error, before the ad runs a second time. COPIES: One Free copy of Banner News is available per household. Additional copies are available at our office for a 50¢ charge per issue.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Page 5

Carolina Pro Musica at Abbey

Meditations In the name of Jesus

Praying in Jesus name at civic events has become a great controversy. I have politely declined invitations to pray at football games when I was instructed not to pray in Jesus name. I have some colleagues who do not mind praying without invoking the Rev. Angela Pleasants name of Jesus. I respect their position First United as they respect my position. I do take Methodist Church, issue when we allow this controversy Mount Holly to cause another division among us. Jesus said he will be present where two or three are gathered in his name. Jesus spoke these words after giving instructions on how to reconcile where there is a disagreement. When we continue to fight and divide, it is a disservice to what it means to pray in Jesus name. When our words of prayer do not match our living, we should reevaluate what it means to pray in Jesus name. So, what does it mean to pray in Jesus name? “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” John 14:13-14. ESV. When a Christian pray in Jesus name, this is not a vague, meaningless mantra, mindlessly uttered in prayer. It is not meant to be magic, or a name it and claim it formula. To pray in Jesus name affirms our witness of an earthly sacrifice and a heavenly intercession of Jesus. It affirms through Jesus Christ we can come boldly to the throne of grace. When a Christian prays in Jesus name, we are praying in the full authority of Jesus. When we pray in Jesus name, there is a real presence of Jesus in our midst. It is not about just merely saying the words as a nice addendum. To pray in Jesus name is praying God’s will not our selfish agenda. So, the next time we pray, we should be mindful of our Hood Memorial AME Zion Church, corner of Todd and words and their purpose. Ask yourself, “Am I praying God’s Sacco streets, will be having its annual Family and Friends agenda or my agenda?” Will the words we speak in prayer Day, Sunday , March 13 at 3pm. For more information call the bring glory to God? Bringing glory to God and obeying his church at 704-461-8336 or Oscar Reid at 704-825-2055. will is what it means to pray, “In Jesus name.”

Eighteenth-century Britain included four different countries and cultures, plus European immigrants. Composers produced new music, and made concert arrangements of folk melodies. Native composer John Stanley's works were performed along with those of Handel, J.C. Bach, Pepusch and Barsanti. The concert includes familiar Irish tunes and songs and works by O'Carolan, the blind Irish harper. Music in the Isles is Monday March 14, 2016 at 8:00 PM, in the Abbey Basilica, 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd, Belmont NC 28012. Admisson is free. Donations will be gladly accepted. Join us for this concert of diverse music. Additional information www.bac.edu, www. carolinapromusica.org or 704-461-6012. This concert is presented in honor and celebration of Early Music Month – part of a national month long celebration of The Pathfinders from Mount Holly will be in concert at Lowes- early music. Carolina Pro Musica is a member of Early Music ville Gospel Concerts - Living Word Ministries – 1062 South America. For additional information about EMA see: www. Hwy 16 – Lowesville (Stanley) Saturday March 12th 6:00pm. earlymusicamerica.org. The concert will be no charge – a freewill offering will be received. The church is located 1.8 miles south of intersection hwy 73 & 16 business. Contact Carroll Cooke 704-618-9762 with any questions. Check www.gospelgigs.com/lowesvilleconcerts The South Point United Methodist Women of Belmont will Carroll Cooke photo sponsor a Hotdog and Bake Sale, Saturday, March 19th, 9-2PM. Creating Memories With Dignity & Respect Dine-In or Carry-Out. The church is located off South Point Rd, just below the Belle Meade Subdivision. Will deliver locally for orders of 8 or more. Call 704-825-4019 or 704-5773707 before 10AM for deliveries.

South Point UMC bake sale

BENSON

Funeral & Cremation SERVICE

101 Oak Grove St. • Mt. Holly, NC 28120

704-827-1801

Hood Memorial event

Fellowship & Faith

Church Service Directory Lutheran Church of Good Shepherd Mt Holly • NC

First Baptist Church-Mt. Holly 300 S. Main St. 704-827-2481

Macedonia Baptist Church 1951 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-9224

First Free Will Baptist Church 841 Noles Dr. 704-827-7461

Mt. Holly Church of God 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596

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. Holly Noles Baptist Church Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-2013

Grace Baptist Church 300 Westland Farm Rd. 704-827-8600 Harvest Time Church of God 707 Westland Farm Rd. 704-822-8033 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 3717 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-3939

MT. HOLLY Bethel Baptist Church NC Highway 273 704-827-9846

Chapel Baptist Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-5526

Jehovah’s Witnesses 1736 Kelly Rd. 704-263-0199

Burge Memorial Methodist Church 312 W. Glendale Ave. 704-827-2726

Community Christian Fellowship 2560 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-5881

Lighthouse Full Gospel Church 530 N. Hawthorne St. 704-827-1442

Catawba Heights Church of God 122 Tomberlin Rd. 704-827-4225 CBC-Memorial Apostolic 230 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-0968

Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603 Family Worship Center 1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656

Living Witness Ministries 541 Costner St. 704-827-0004 Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 110 S. Main St. 704-827-4751

Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201

704-867-2317

Shiloh AME Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826 Springﬁeld Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-820-0193 St. Anthony of Padua Traditional Catholic Church 108 Horseshoe Bend Beach Rd. 704-827-8676

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Main Baptist Church 1304 N. Main St. 704-827-6141 Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954 Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly 826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999 Ridgeview Baptist Church 105 Pine Rd. 704-827-3856 Second Baptist Church 740 Rankin Ave.

Employees of

Containers/Trailers Sales & Storage Rental

704-827-5181

VICTORY CHEVROLET 717 Rhyne Rd Charlotte • NC

877-505-1204

Wesley Chapel Holiness Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-1993 Westview Presbyterian Church 1020 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-2026

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

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 6

Thursday, March 10, 2016

STOWE PARK From page 1 of all, a miniature train that pulled passengers on 300 feet of track around the park perimeter and through a tunnel. The park was closed from June, 1965 until it was presented to the city as a gift from Stowe in December 1978. Stowe Park had a new addition in 2014 when the Spirit of the Fighting Yank WWII memorial statute was moved there from Belmont Heavy equipment has been at Stowe Park for the last couple of weeks rebuildMiddle School. The park re- ing the embankments there. mains a centerpiece of downPhotos by Alan Hodge Dozens of truckloads of dirt have been brought to Stowe Park for the embankment town Belmont. rebuilding project.

IT'S TIME TO PLAY THE

Arbor Day event planned The City of Belmont and Town of Cramerton will hold the annual Arbor Day Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 11-2 at Goat Island Park in Cramerton. Eco-minded and ecologically concerned businesses, artists, and organizations as well as vendors of locally grown or produced goods are invited to participate. Link is below for an application which provides more information. http://www.cityofbelmont.org/formcenter/event-vendorforms-10/arbor-day-earth-day-vendor-application-62.

LOTTERY

2500

JACKPOT

PICK YOUR FAVORITE 3 NUMBERS Last week's lottery numbers were drawn by Dylan Thomas of Lanier Material Sales at 105 Hillandale Lane, Mt Holly NC. A family company, locally owned and operated since 1989. The winning numbers were 3, 11, & 26. No ballot with the correct three numbers was received. The Jackpot will increase to $2,500. Make sure you have your entry in by deadline at 9am on Monday for your chance to win!

THE BANNER NEWS LOTTERY Numbers will be drawn each Monday Morning. Look in next week's Banner-News for the 3 WINNING NUMBERS! Jackpot increases $50 each week until won, then a new jackpot will begin at $50.

ENTER! The Ban ner News Lottery is this simple!

More than 50 members and friends of the Montcross Area Chamber helped Charles Lineberger celebrate his new office location for Benefit Partners in the beautiful Lodge at Cramer Mountain Club on Feb. 25, 2016. Benefit Partners is among the first businesses to open since the former Cramer Mountain Country Club facility was renovated and converted into 17 office condominium suites. With golf course views from almost every office, the Lodge is a spectacular setting for business. In the photo, Benefit Partners owner Charles Lineberger is cutting the ribbon with his associate Julie Gaddy and Cramerton Mayor Ronnie Worley. Holding the ribbon are Montcross Area Chamber Board members Moses Nueman (left) of NB Technology and Dr. Marc Stout of Gaston Christian School. For more information, call 704-867-3628, or visit www.benefitpartnersonline.com. (Montcross Area Chamber photo)

Letter to the Editor... I am saddened to hear of people not supporting helping those with mental health concerns by giving them a supportive home in our community. Everyone needs a home, and if they have support they can be productive members of our community. Please help others.

Choose your favorite 3 numbers between 1 and 50 (not using the same number twice) and enter the numbers in the 3 circles below in any order.

Lucy Woods Mt. Holly

Oil $ Service

LOTTERY RULES

*With coupon. 0W20 oil models $37.95. Plus taxes. By Appointment.

Mail to: Lottery C/O Banner News P.O. Box 589, Belmont, NC 28012 Name ________________________________ Address ______________________________ City _________________________________ State___________________ Zip __________ Phone _______________________________

Expires 3-31-16.

Award Winning Service SUPER SAVER Free Multi-Point Inspection VALUE Factory Honda Parts Certiﬁed Techs SPECIAL ©Community First Media

Absolutely one entry per household each week! No photo copies will be allowed. Any lottery entries that have the same handwriting or appear to be in conjunction with any other entry will be disqualiﬁed. Entries must be complete with name, household address and phone number. No business address will be accepted. All entries must be brought by the Banner-News drop box at 128-C North Main St. in Belmont, NC or post-marked by Saturday prior to Monday's drawing. We are not responsible for entries lost or late by mail delivery. If more than one correct lottery entry is received, the jackpot will be split between the winners. The judge's decision is ﬁnal. Must be at least 18 years old to enter. Employees and immediate family of CF Media not eligible.

27.

95*

onda

284 Daniel Road Forest City • 828-286-2614 www.forestcityhondanc.com

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Page 7

Gaston County has 1st confirmed rabies case On Sunday, February 14, 2016 the Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement Division received a call from a citizen in the area of Thunder Road in Dallas NC who reported a sick cat. Animal Care and Enforcement Specialists investigated the incident and the cat was processed for rabies testing and was sent to the NC Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh. The official laboratory results were received on February 24, 2016. The cat tested positive for rabies. The Gaston County Department of Health and Human Services has been notified and the Animal Care and Enforcement Specialists conducted a canvass of the immediate areas where the animal was located to advise residents of the incident and to verify pet rabies vaccinations. The Gaston County Police Department Animal Care and Enforcement Division stresses the importance of having a valid rabies vaccination for all of your pet’s health and safety as well as the health and safety of their owners and community. This represents the first confirmed rabies case in Gaston County this year.

Cramerton events for March The Town of Cramerton has several events planned for March March 16, 17, and 18; March 30, 31, and April 1: Recycling pick up dates. March 10: Historical Society interest meeting at Town Hall 6:30 p.m. March 15: Cramerton Merchants Association meeting at 8:00 a.m. at Town Hall. March 15: Cramerton

Bunch lunch at Village Restaurant at 11:00 a.m. March 19: Easter egg hunt at Cramerton Middle School at 10:00 a.m. March 22: Senior Citizens lunch 11:30 a.m. at the Community Center. March 22: Budget workshop meeting 8:30 a.m. at Town Hall. March 25: Town closed in observance of Easter Good Friday.

We’re Proud to Announce New Service Hours to Better Serve You! Monday-Friday 7:45am-7pm Saturday 9am-6pm

©Community First Media

We service all makes & models! onda 284 Daniel Rd., Forest City

828-286-2614

Mount Holly Parks & Recreation seeks public input Mount Holly Parks & Recreation has begun the process of planning for two new park sites. The proposed park sites are on the corner of Glendale & Hawthorne, and one on the North end at Horseshoe Bend Beach Road. One of the most important aspects of planning is to seek public input. Please come out to the public meeting on Tuesday March 22 to share your ideas about the park sites. The meeting will begin at 6pm, and be held at the Mount Holly Municipal Complex. Online surveys are also available at www. mtholly.us. For more information regarding the meeting or survey call 704-951-3006.

Toddler Easter Egg Hunt Mount Holly Parks & Recreation and the Mount Holly library will host their annual Toddler Easter Egg Hunt on Wednesday March 23. The free event will begin at 10am at Tuckaseege Park. There will be crafts, an egg hunt, and of course a visit from the Easter Bunny. For more information call 704-951-3006.

MARCH

INTO CAMPING SEASON at

of K of Kings iing g Mou Mountain

PRIZES TO WIN EVERY WEEKEND IN MARCH! including

PARTS & ACCESSORIES GIFT CARDS No purchase necessary. Winners must be 18 years or older. See dealership for complete rules and regulations.

The Town of Cramerton swore in two new police officers recently. Cramerton Police Chief Greg Ratchford (left)is seen swearing in Officers T.L. Dockery (middle) and J.M. Howell (right). Town of Cramerton photio

Tri-County Rescue pets of the week The Tri-County Animal Rescue Pets of the Week are Marley and Bruiser. These two babies need a new owner. Their human owner was killed in a recent hit and run in Mount Holly. They are mourning his loss but have started adjusting. They must be adopted together as they depend on one another. Bruiser and Marley are both about 6 years old. Bruiser is a miniature Dachshund weighing around 12 pounds. Marley is an overweight Rat Terrier weighing between 20-25 pounds. These two sleep together, eat together and hang out together. Marley is spayed and Bruiser is neutered. They are current on vaccines, micro-chipped and come with 30 days of free pet insurance. Both Marley and Bruiser will require minimal grooming since they have short hair. A quick bath and brushing is all they Marley and Bruiser will need to maintain their fresh appearance. Please open your heart for these two grieving pets. They are desperately seeking love and affection. If you have enough love in your heart for Marley and Bruiser, please come out and meet them this weekend. Other available pets will be at the Gastonia PetSmart located at 3698 East Franklin Boulevard this Friday from 6-9 pm, Saturday noon to 6 pm and Sunday 2-5 pm. Tri-County Animal Rescue is a non-profit organization serving Lincoln, Gaston and other surrounding counties committed to ending pet homelessness in this area and needs your continued support. If you cannot adopt a pet, then support Tri-County in other ways like volunteering and donations to continue the mission of finding homes for these unwanted animals. Please help Tri-County Animal Rescue continue to save pets by adopting your next pet this weekend? Our “needs” list includes: towels, Clorox, laundry detergent, paper towels, dry dog food and dry cat food. For more information, call 704.263.2444, send an email to TriCountyAnimalRescue@ yahoo.com, visit the web at www.tcar.us or on FaceBook at Tri-County Animal Rescue. Donations can be sent to Tri-County Animal Rescue, PO Box 483, Alexis, NC 28006

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH, SC

! y a w a t Ge

“A Family Favorite” BOOK YOUR

SPRING & SUMMER VACATION DATES

NOW!

Call 704-718-6953

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 8

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Gaston College deploys Rapid Response Team

Mt. Holly Fire Department staff recently traveled to Snyder, Nebraska for the prepaint inspection of two new fire engines. These trucks will be the city's first new apparatus purchase since 2002. These engines will be replacing the oldest trucks a 1989 and 1990. Mt. Holly FD photo

Topsoil and soil fertility tips for spring Don’t play the guessing game with your garden vegetables or yard for the upcoming growing season. Soil testing for your spring plantings and yard maintenance gives you the information needed to maximize your efforts and boost garden yields. The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Agronomic Services Division encourages home and community gardeners and landscapers to submit soil samples during the non-busy season for faster turnaround times and with no peak-season fees. Soil samples will be analyzed free from April 1 until mid-November. For home gardens, early spring through early fall is an ideal time to submit samples for soil testing. “Whether maintaining an existing lawn or landscaped area or planning a new garden, soil testing can help optimize growing conditions with recommendations for correct amounts of lime and fertilizer “said Jagathi Kamalakanthan, agronomist with the NCDA&CS soil testing lab. With greater interest in home, urban and community gardens, there is an increased use of topsoil bought in bags or in bulk from garden centers to fill raised beds, she said.

“There are no regulations on what can be sold as topsoil, making soil testing a valuable tool in determining the actual fertility of these products,” Kamalakanthan said. “It is important to remember that low fertility can cause nutrient deficiencies, while too much fertility can be harmful to plants depending on what nutrients are too high.” Some nutrients can be toxic to plants, and excessive nutrients, such as phosphorus, may be harmful to the environment if it moves to surface waters. It is always a good idea to test topsoil before using it, whether it is native or newly acquired for a raised bed. If adding to existing soil, Kamalakanthan recommends thoroughly mixing topsoil well with the native soil to minimize drainage issues that may exist by layering one type of soil on top of another. More information on topsoil can be found at www.ncagr.gov/agronomi/pdffiles/sfn14. pdf. Guidelines on collecting and submitting soil samples are available at www.ncagr.gov/ agronomi/pdffiles/HomeApr2014.pdf. Contact the Agronomic Services Division office at 919-733-2655 for questions regarding soil testing.

Daimler Trucks North America announced in February that it would be laying off approximately 700 workers from its Mount Holly plant, the Gaston College Rapid Response Team sprang into action. The team, in partnership with the N.C. Governor’s Rapid Response team, assists dislocated workers with training resources. Authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Governor's Rapid Response is an early intervention initiative that provides transitional services for dislocated workers and employers affected by layoffs or closures within the state, regardless of the reasons. Gaston College has been a partner in this collaborative effort since the program’s inception. Other participating organizations are the local Workforce Development Board, the Department of Commerce Division of Workforce Solutions, and the local NCWorks Career Center. The goal of the Rapid Response Team is to give dislocated workers options and information on resources that are available to help them be trained or retrained and to help them re-enter the workforce. The Gaston College team last worked with the 157 employees dislocated by the spring 2015 closing of the Mohican Mills plant in Lincolnton. The Workforce Development Board paid all tuition, fees, and expenses for the dislocated workers who chose to attend Gaston College in pursuit of a certificate or diploma. Upon receipt of Daimler’s notification of the temporary layoffs at its Mount Holly truck manufacturing plant, the Division of Workforce Solutions

contacted the local Workforce Development Board and the board reached out to the Rapid Response Team members. A preliminary meeting was held between Daimler management and a Rapid Response Team member to determine a course of action, and meetings with affected Daimler employees and representatives from the Rapid Response Team organizations will take place on March 19. The Gaston College team includes Donna Blake, Beth Hollars, and Diane Metcalfe from the Continuing Education Department, and Jennifer Nichols and Tanisha Williams from Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. They will inform the dislocated workers about the credit and non-credit programs at Gaston College that are available to them, and will guide them through the enrollment process. Once such program, offered by the Gaston College Continuing Education Department, is the Manufacturing Boot Camp, a two-module, 40hour program designed to prepare individuals for entry level positions in Advanced Manufacturing. The program will provide participants with the training manufacturers have indicated are vital for success. The Module One topics include building Cohesive Teams, Developing Critical

Forest City Honda is seeking talented, motivated and experienced

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Wildfire risk typically higher from March to May others forbid it entirely. •Make sure you have an approved burning permit, which can be obtained at any NCFS office, countyapproved burning permit agent, or online at http://ncforestservice.gov. •Check the weather. Don’t burn if conditions are dry or windy. •Only burn natural vegetation from your property. Burning household trash or any other man-made materials is illegal. Trash should be hauled away to a convenience center. •Plan burning for the late afternoon when conditions are typically less windy and more humid. •If you must burn, be prepared. Use a shovel or hoe to clear a perimeter around the area where you plan to burn. •Keep fire tools ready. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, a steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. •Never use flammable liquids such as kerosene, gasoline or diesel fuel to speed burning. •Stay with your fire until it is completely out. In North Carolina, human carelessness leads to more wildfires than any other cause. In fact, debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in

to join our team, and help us achieve our goal of total customer satisfaction. Apply today at Forest City Honda, 284 Daniel Rd., Forest City, NC 28043

the state. •These same tips hold true for campfires and barbeques, too. Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfire thoroughly with water. When the coals are soaked, stir them and soak them again. Be sure they are out cold and carefully feel to be sure they are extinguished. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area. •Burning agriculture residue and forestland litter: In addition to the guidelines above, a fire line should be plowed around the area to be burned. Large fields should be separated into small plots for burning one at a time. Before doing any burning in a wooded area, contact your county ranger, who will weigh all factors, explain them and offer technical advice. For more information on ways you can prevent wildfires and loss of property visit http://ncforestservice.gov.

Attractive pay plan that includes salary+commission.

Signing bonus available for the right candidate! 1-2 years sales experience required.

Ask for Ken or Matt onda ©Community First Media

The N.C. Forest Service is urging residents across the state to think safety and exercise caution during the spring fire season, which typically lasts from March to May. During the spring fire season, people do a lot of yard work that often includes burning leaves and yard debris. There are many factors to consider before doing any burning. “If you’re thinking about burning debris, contact your county forest ranger first,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “The forest ranger can offer technical advice and explain the best options to help maximize safety for people, property and the forest.” Follow guidelines to reduce risk of wildfire For people who choose to burn debris, the NCFS urges them to adhere to the following tips to protect property and prevent wildfires: •Consider alternatives to burning. Some yard debris, such as leaves and grass, may be more valuable if composted. •Check with your county fire marshal’s office for local laws on burning debris. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours;

Thinking and Problem Solving Skills, Communication and Active Listening, Problem Solving, and Creating Effective Resumes’. Module Two topics include Math and Measurements, Computer Skills for the Workplace, Principles of Manufacturing, and Sharpening Your Interviewing Skills. Also, Boot Camp participants will be provided an opportunity to receive the National Career Readiness Certificate, a nationally recognized credential confirming the recipients’ abilities in Math, Reading for Information, and Locating Information-skills employers noted are essential to success in the workplace. Tuition is free for unemployed and underemployed individuals. For More information contact your local NCWorks Career Center or Gaston College’s Occupational and Continuing Education at 704.922.2244 “The Gaston College Rapid Response team is proud to be part of this important initiative that helps put dislocated workers on the path back to employment,” said Diane Metcalfe, Director of Occupational and Continuing Education. “With the improving economy, we are not called upon frequently, but we are ready to serve where and when we are needed.”

284 Daniel Rd., Forest City

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Local

Belmont Arby’s 700 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-4950 Beijing To Go 1420 Perfection Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 827-5838 Belmont Food & Beverage 101 Kenwood St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-7788 Belmont Soda Shop 31 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 461-8580 Bojangles 6450 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3562 Brenda’s Cake Gallery 11 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-2253 Buddy’s BBQ Inc. 5945 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-8777 Cafe Internet 508 Beaty Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 820-8040 Captain’s Cap 670 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-4103 Caravan Coffee & Dessert Bar 11 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-7711 Catﬁsh Cove 1401 Armstrong Ford Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3332 Cherubs Cafe 23 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-0414 Chick-Fil-A 801 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-8600 Chicken King 501 Woodlawn St. Belmont NC 28012 704-827-1552 Cowboys BS 1420 Perfection Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 820-8653 Dairy Queen 7015 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-5106 Demetrios Restaurant 6928 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-0057

Page 9

DINING GUIDE

Dunkin’ Donuts 6751 E. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-1090

Rita’s Family Restaurant 108 Beaty Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 820-2894

Friends Sports Bar & Grill 16 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-1401

Sake Express 675 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 461-0400

Glenway Premium Pub 55 Glenway St., Belmont, NC 29012 (704) 829-7717

Sammys Neighborhood Pub 25 S. Main St. Belmont NC 28012 (704) 825-4266

H&M Deli and Market 1019 Wilkerson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 820-8611 Hardee’s 611 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3272 Joe’s Touch of Italy 503 S. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-2805 Johnny B’s Pizza 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-8900 KFC 6813 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-8817 McDonalds 505 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-9711 New China 6517 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-1010 Old Stone Steak House 23 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-9995 Papa John’s Pizza 6511 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-4339 Peace-N-Hominy Q Shack 403 E. Catawba St. • Ste 200 Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 464-7647 Peet’s Coffee & Tea 701 Hawley Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-8885 Pizza Hut 685 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-7335 Queens’ Seafood 1401 Armstrong Ford Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3332 Reach Out of The Box 360 Glen Arbor St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3446

Simonetti’s Pizza 6432 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704)825-5555 Southpoint Grill 1901 S. Point Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-1043 String Bean The Fresh Market & Deli 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3636 Sub Corral Sandwich Shop 6831 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-5466 Subway 610 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-7827 Taxco Mexican Grill 6418 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-2108 The Grill 682 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-5179 Wafﬂe House 603 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-2177 Wendy’s 660 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3286 White Restaurant 417 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-3886 Wingstreet 685 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-7335

Cramerton Asian Garden 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 28032 (704) 824-8318 Georgios Restaurant 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 28032 (704) 824-2220

Mayworth’s Public House 115 Center St. Cramerton, NC 28032 South Fork Deli 119-B Center St. Cramerton NC 28032

Dallas Clemmer’s Country Kitchen 1313 Old Dallas Rd. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-8384 Dallas Fresh Seafood Market 3110 Dallas/High Shoals Hwy Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 923-8223 Dallas Fish Box 1031 Lower Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-8930 Dairy Queen 108 College View Dr. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-5051 Domino’s Pizza 3130 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-7665 Double Dragon Chinese Restaurant 3130 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 923-8030 Jack In The Box 102 College View Dr. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-9178 Just Cookin 1108 E. Main St. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-7031 Long Creek Fish Fry 1425 Lower Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-3998 North Star Seafood 2150 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-7715 Peet’s Coffee & Tea 715 W. Trade St. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-6791 Subway 3129 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-1001 Tavern On The Square 602 Queens Dr. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-5425 Tommy’s Drive In 2708 Gastonia Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-9099 The Country Kitchen 116 E. Main St. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-9597

Promote Your Restaurant In The Banner News Call at (704) 825-0580

Wafﬂe House 1100 Dallas Cherryville Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 (704) 922-9648

Side Trax Sports Bar & Food 121 W. Central Ave. Mt Holly NC 28012 704-827-3603

Lowell

Vasileious Italian Kitchen 200 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 820-8539

Grits N Greens 125 N. Main St. Lowell NC 28098 704-879-4073 Hillbilly’s Barbeque & Steaks 720 McAdenville Rd. Lowell, NC 28098 (704) 824-8838

McAdenville Little Village Restaurant 129 Main St. McAdenville, NC 28101 (704) 824-3624

Mount Holly Billys Barbeque Family Restaurant 1127 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-8747 Brite Star Drive In Grill 205 Madora St. Mt Holly NC 28120 704-827-0212 Chicken King 130 W. Charlotte Ave. Mt Holly NC 28120 704-812-8266 China Two Mt Holly 595 Highland St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-8090

Christy’s Place 1015 W Catawba St Mt Holly NC 28120 704-827-2411 Sake Express Inc. of Mount Holly 349 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-4819

Stanley Bojangles 541 N. 27 W. Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-4532 China Garden 190 E. Dallas Rd. Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-8788 Friendly’s Of Stanley 119 N. Main St. Stanley NC 28164 704-263-7088 Gus’s Sir Beef Restaurant 106 Mariposa Rd. Stanley NC 28164 704-263-3988 Hunan To Go 509 S. Hwy 27 Stanley NC 28164 704-263-3988 Niko’s Grill 124 N. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-1311 Red Burrito 441 N. 27 West Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-1221 Subway 107 E. Dallas Rd. Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-7350 Woodshed Restaurant 212 S. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 (704) 263-1030

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 10

Thursday, March 10, 2016

RoboGaston event saw student ingenuity at its best After a year of learning and preparation, 40 elementary and middle school student teams put their robots to the test in the annual RoboGaston event presented by Gaston County Schools last Saturday. Through their FLL Robotics clubs, students discovered how to build and program a robot while working as a team to solve problems. On Saturday, the teams got to see their robots try to complete a variety of tasks. Winners included: First Lego League- Overall champion – Tryon Trash Trucks from Tryon Elementary Overall runner up – EcoKnights from Brookside Elementary; Judges award – Patrio-Botts from Gardner Park Elementary; Project presentation first place – Team Techno from Carr Elementary; Project presentation second place – Re-3s from Hawks Next Intermediate; Teamwork first place – Techno-Talons from Belmont Central Elementary; Teamwork second place – RoboRacers from Belmont Central Elementary; Robot performance first place – Robo Cows from Pinewood Elementary; Robot performance second place – Cougar Clean Up Crew from Costner Elementary; Spirit award – Reuse-A-Bots from Sherwood Elementary; Gracious Professionalism – Team Dynamite from McAdenville Elementary. First Tech Challenge WinnersOverall champion – RoboHawks from Mount Holly Middle; Overall runner up – Chavis Wolver-Bots from Chavis Middle; Engineering award first place – Devil Bots from Stanley Middle; Engineering Award second place – RATOM’s from Holbrook Middle.

North Belmont Elementary

Stanley Middle School

Mt. Holly Middle School

Belmont Central Elementary

Kiser Elementary

McAdenville Elementary

Ida Rankin Elementary Pinewood Elementary

Belmont Middle

Cramerton Middle

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Page 11

Gaston Day students presented art awards On Saturday, February 13, the Mid Carolina Region of The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards held their Gold Key Ceremony at the

now be judged at the national level for these categories addition to the categories for which they earned Gold Keys.

Spirit Square Center for the Arts in Charlotte. In addition to being recognized for their Gold Keys, four Gaston Day students were presented with special awards. These special awards are considered the “Best in Show” for the entire region’s Gold Key winning pieces. American Voices and American Visions Nominees for the Mid Carolina Region: Nick Deely was designated an American Voices nominee (nonfiction) and Bailey Roca was chosen as a nominee for an American Visions (art). Their work will

Adams Outdoor Advertising- Lauralee Hurst (poetry) and Aynslee Hodnett (art) were selected to have their work displayed on billboards sponsored by Adams Outdoor Advertising. Additionally, both Nick’s and Bailey’s pieces were highlighted in the event’s program. The Mid Carolina Region art and writing affiliates of the Alliance for Young Artists and writers is comprised of 18 counties: Alleghany, Alexander, Anson, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Davie, Gaston,

Lamadrid is a Finalist in the 2016 competition for National Merit Scholarships Congratulations to Gaston Day School senior, Claire Lamadrid on being a Finalist in the 2016 competition for National Merit Scholarships. All Finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships to be offered in 2016. 15,000 Semifinalists are notified that they have advanced to Finalist standing. All winners of Merit Scholarship® awards (Merit Scholar® designees) are chosen from the Finalist group based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National

Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®)-a test which serves as an initial screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year-and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements.

Claire Lamadrid

AMITY FINANCE, INC. PERSONAL LOANS 2477 E. Ozark Ave. • Gastonia, NC

Phone: 704-867-3643 Fax: 704-854-8333

Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly, Surry, Union, Wilkes, and Yadkin. Local luminaries in the visual and literary arts fields served as judges. This year the Mid Carolina Region accepted over 2100 entries for art and writing. Art and writing will be displayed through March 1 at the Knight Gallery at Spirit Square. All Gold Key awarded pieces advance to The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards national competition in New York City. The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards have an impressive legacy dating back to 1923. The Awards are an important opportunity for students to be recognized for their creative talents. Past Award recipients include writers Sylvia Plath, Joyce Carol Oates, and Truman Capote, artists Kay WalkingStick and Charles White, and photographer Richard Avedon.

Gaston Day School first grade art classes recently took a trip to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art in Charlotte. Mrs. Jentsch and Ms. Jensen’s classes learned in Mrs. Lawler’s art class about an American artist by the name of Sam Francis, and was able to view his works on display at the Bechtler. Both classes would like to thank Mrs. Jessica Churchill who serves on the board of the Bechtler Museum and set up this wonderful opportunity for our young people. Gaston Day photo

Gaston Day Student named 2016 Terrific Teen Charlotte Parent Magazine has announced their 2016 Terrific Teens and GDS Senior, Kathryn Rhyne is 1 of 8 teens selected. At school, Kathryn earns top grades and has been inducted into every academic honor society at Gaston Day School, says Carolyn Senter, the school’s director of college placement. “Kathryn thrives when she is challenged academically as evidenced by her transcript that includes the most rigorous courses our school offers,” Senter says. She has run cross-country for seven years, and she has played her grandmother’s violin since she was 6 years old. She joined a Girl Scout troop that met at her church when she was in elementary school and stayed with the organization until she earned her Silver Award. She has worked part-time jobs, including an internship at a pediatric

therapy center in Gastonia, and now she makes and sells bracelets through her website. Senter says that Kathryn balances her many activities well and never appears overwhelmed. “Kathryn has all of the qualities of a top scholar, but she also has warmth that draws people to her — her personality sparkles,” says Senter. “She is one of the most trusted students in the school in addition to being admired by her peers and faculty alike.”

Congratulations to sixth grader, Sophia Brown, for winning the Gaston Day School Spelling Bee. This spelling bee was very unique because it took two days to finally crown a winner. The finalists were such great spellers that the judges ran out of words. The winning word was “futilitarian”. The meaning: one who believes that human striving is futile. Sophia will now move on to a local competition.

AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP

$ Kathryn Rhyne

Need A Classified?

6900 • • • •

PREMIER DEALER TM

Call Kathy Today!

704-739-7496

HOME COMFORT SYSTEMS Innovation never felt so good.TM

Lic. # 09350

Excellence Quality Service for over 60 years!

Dilling Heating 1250 Linwood Rd. • Kings Mountain

704-739-3446

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 12

Thursday, March 10, 2016

3rd annual Caromont community challenge at Stuart W. Cramer

This spectacular rainbow was spotted over McAdenville recently. That's one of the town's famous Christmas trees in the foreground. Photo by Steve Rankin

DSBG annual photography contest winners announced Mount Holly’s Matt Nichols is the Best in Show winner of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s 2015 Shutterbug Photography Contest. Nichols’ photograph of an Aechmea sp. plant in the Garden’s Orchid Conservatory won both first place in the plants category and best in show. First, second, and third place winners and honorable mentions were selected by a panel of judges in seven categories for adult amateur photographers and one category for youth. Judges Craig McCausland, Rick Belden of Rick Belden Photography, Rick Haithcox of Rick Haithcox Photography, and Stephanie Wisnet, Marketing Associate at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, selected the winning photographs from over 180 entries. The winning photographs are posted on the Garden’s Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/ stowegarden/2015-shutterbug-photo-contest/ and will be on exhibit at the Garden beginning March 21. A sample of winners is also published in the Garden’s member newsletter, The Garden Path, and participants may also find their photos published in marketing materials. Things Remembered Custom Framing…And So Much

More! of Gastonia sponsored the contest and also provided the matting and framing for the winning entries. The winners in each category are: Best of Show, Matt Nichols, Mount Holly. Adult Categories: Architecture/Artwork at the Garden- 1st Place, Michaela Howard, Charlotte; 2nd Place, Shelley Stachler, Lake Wylie, SC; 3rd Place, Jamie Adams, Charlotte; Honorable Mention, Judy Young, Newton, NC. Orchids/Tropical Plants1st Place, Jim Taft, Charlotte; 2nd Place, Shelley Stachler, Lake Wylie, SC; 3rd Place, Kimberly Ellis, Indian Land, SC; Honorable Mention, Gerry King, Rock Hill, SC. Wildlife- 1st Place, Michael Trznadel, Charlotte; 2nd Place, Shelley Stachler, Lake Wylie, SC; 3rd Place, Dennis Paul Rubin, Charlotte; Honorable Mention, Suzanne Park, Charlotte. Plants- 1st Place, Matt Nichols, Mount Holly, NC; 2nd Place, Mary Roberts, Tega Cay, SC; 3rd Place, Edgar Payne, Gastonia, NC; Honorable Mention, Kimberly Ellis, Indian Land, SC. Water- 1st Place, Shelley Stachler, Lake Wylie, SC; 2nd Place, Judy Young, Newton, NC; 3rd Place, Rebecca Thomas, Charlotte; Honorable Mention, Gina Lorello, Matthews, NC.

AIRLINE CAREERS Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance

800-481-7894

Events/Celebrations- 1st Place, Jim Taft, Charlotte; 2nd Place, Shelley Stachler, Lake Wylie, SC; 3rd Place, Michael Trznadel, Charlotte. People- 1st Place, Rae Lovvorn, Fort Mill, SC; 2nd Place, Mary Roberts, Tega Cay, SC; 3rd Place, Michael Trznadel, Charlotte. Youth- 1st Place, Anna Wei, Charlotte; 2nd Place, Therese Eitzenberger, Kings Mountain, NC; 3rd Place, Catherine Eitzenberger, Kings Mountain, NC.

Cramerton 2015 audit results The Cramerton Town Board received the fiscal year ending 6/30/15 annual audit report from Collis and Associates, CPAs, at their February 18, 2016 workshop meeting. This year the audit was completed without any noted deficiencies in internal control and the Town received the most favorable unqualified audit opinion. Results show the Town increased its Net Position by $599,026.00 due primarily to operations that show an increase in the Ad Valorem collection rate of 99.3%, increased Sales and Use Tax distributions, increased Utilities Sales Tax distributions, and by holding operating department expenditures to less than budgeted amounts. The statements can be viewed at Town Hall and are included in the Financial Department section of the Town’s website at www. cramerton.org.

For the third year, CaroMont Health will host the CaroMont Community Challenge, a 5K run, 1-mile fun walk and familyfriendly event. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome to attend this exciting health and wellness experience on May 14, 2016 at Stuart W. Cramer High School, 101 Lakewood Road in Belmont. “We want the CaroMont Community Challenge to bring our community together to run, walk and support one another, regardless of where they are in their health journey,” said Doug Luckett, President and CEO at CaroMont Health. “Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting to exercise, taking that first step is important, and we hope this event gives people an opportunity to compete, learn or just make connections to help them improve their health and wellness. We’re in our third year, and it just keeps getting better. We have a Couch to 5K training program that we’re offering to help walkers and runners prepare, and we’ll have activities for all ages and fitness levels during the event. It’s just a really great way to spend your Saturday morning.” As Luckett mentions, the CaroMont Community Challenge is more than a race; it is a health and wellness experience for the whole family. Attendees will enjoy health and fitness demonstrations, interactive fitness challenges, giveaways and prizes, and a variety of fun and interactive activities. Fun Walk & Run The 5K run begins at 8:00 a.m. followed by a 1-mile fun walk at 9.00 a.m. Both races will start and finish at Stuart W. Cramer High School. Registration for the 5K is $15 per person or $50 for a family rate (4 or more) and includes a t-shirt. There is no fee to participate in the 1-mile fun walk but registration is required. Visit caromontcommunitychallenge.com to register today! Couch to 5K Training Run or walk your very first 5K with the help of CaroMont’s Couch to 5K (C25K) training program. Join CaroMont on Saturday, March 14 at 8:30 a.m. at Discover YOU!, 420 East Central Avenue in Mount Holly, to kick-off a community-wide C25K program. Learn about training programs near you and meet fellow trainees. The training program is designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running or walking a 5K in just nine weeks. The secret is the gentle introduction to getting the body moving, starting off alternating between walking and running small distances, and slowly building up to completing a full 5K. For more information about C25K and other training programs, contact meghan.marr@caromonthealth.org. To register and to learn more about the CaroMont Community Challenge, please visit caromontcommunitychallenge.com.

Gaston College Morris Library Staff recommends ‘Books We Love’ The Morris Library on the Gaston College Dallas Campus is providing a new service to the College community. Starting in March, the library will present a selection of books recommended by the library staff. The display, located in the reference area of the library, will change monthly. In her book “Mansfield Park,” the author Jane Austen said, “A fondness for reading, properly directed, must be an education in itself.” Dr. Harry Cooke, Director of Gaston College Libraries, initiated the “Books We Love” program to promote library services and to encourage students, staff and faculty and the community to develop a keener interest in reading that extends beyond Facebook posts and Tweets. For March, Dr. Cooke has recommended “The Gilded Hour” by Sara Donati; “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Har-

old Fry” and “The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessey” by Rachel Joyce; and “The Breaking Point” by Jefferson Bass. Other recommendations are: “The Carolina Way” by Dean Smith, recommended by Calvin Craig, Information Access Librarian; “Minnow” by James E. McTeer II, recommended by Whit Preston, Evening Librarian; “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, recommended by Pamela Mason, Evening Circulation Assistant; and “The Thinking Life” by P.M. Forni, recommended by Libby Stone, Public Services Librarian. “I read ‘The Thinking Life: How to Thrive in the Age of Distraction’ by P.M. Forni, a professor at Johns Hopkins University, and it had a huge impact on me,” said Stone, when asked about her recommendation. “We live in a world with information overload. As a Public Services Librarian,

the nature of my work is social interaction and constant interruption. ‘The Thinking Life’ helped me to realize the importance of taking time to reflect and to just…think. I borrowed this book from our library but I plan to purchase a copy of my own so that I can read it over and over!” Pamela Mason recommended “Pride and Prejudice” by saying it is “…one

3 Tab Rooﬁng Shingles

Hours Mon Fri 8am-5pm

of my favorite books. It is an old story but a classic. I can go back to it to read again and again and never tire of it.” The Morris Library will feature book recommendations from Gaston College students, faculty, and staff in coming months. For information about Gaston College library services, visit www. gaston.edu/library.

44.96 Square - $14.99 Bundle

Architect Laminate Shingles 54.96 Square - $18.32 Bundle

5V Galvanized Metal

8’ ........................ $15.49 14’ ...................... $25.95 Sat 10’ ...................... $18.49 16’ ...................... $28.95 8am-12pm 12’ ...................... $22.49 10’ Ridge Cap .... $18.95 Closed Treated Decking, Cabinets, and Paneling Available the 3rd OODEN TORAGE UILDINGS Saturday 8x8......... $1349 8x12 ....... $1749 10x16 ..... $2195 of Every 8x10 ....... $1549 10x12 ..... $1949 12x16 ..... $2495 SAVE $$$ on: Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Exterior Siding, Month

All Size Lumber; both treated & regular Hwy. 321 Between Gastonia & Dallas (across from Gaston College) Open: Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm • Sat 8am - 12pm

Thursday, March 10, 2016

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 13

The Gaston County Board of Education received the following Good News for January/February 2016 Stephen Moore, a student at Stuart W. Cramer High School, and Hayes Cloninger of Forestview High School were appointed to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.

More than 2,000 students in Gaston County Schools wrote their first line of computer code during “Hour of Code,” an international event that introduces children to computer programming. Rankin Elementary and Hawks Nest Intermediate participated in the First Lego League regional robotics competition and qualified to represent Gaston County Schools in the state competition. Kiser Elementary and McAdenville Elementary also participated in the regional competition. North Gaston, Cherryville and Bessemer City won awards at the N.C. High School Athletic Association’s Invitational Cheerleading Championship. North Gaston earned first place in the Division I Small Varsity (Non-Tumble) category. Cherryville captured first in Division II Small Varsity, and Bessemer City took second in Division II Small Varsity (Non- Tumble). The following students were selected as the January “Do The Right Thing” award winners: Jake Washam, Rankin Elementary; Chloe Hayes, John Chavis Middle School; Dalton Morgan, Gaston Early College High School; and Gavin Morgan, Holbrook Middle School. Students from Pleasant Ridge Elementary, Southwest Middle and York Chester Middle who are involved in the Gaston County Schools LEAP program had an opportunity to spend time with guest speaker Robert Kirton. Dr. Kirton discussed character building and brotherhood and encouraged the students to become mentors and leaders in the community. Ashbrook High School English teacher Ashley Rimmer had an article selected for publication in “RISE: A Children’s Literacy Journal.” Her review of “Locomotive,” a children’s book, was printed in the journal’s fall edition. Ashbrook High senior Caroline Greene and Forestview High senior Whitney Marr received Gold Key awards at the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Greene was honored for her short story titled “Song of the Sea,” and Marr received an award for her work, “Marr-Whitney Reflecting Fashion.” The Ashbrook High School concert choir was selected to serve as the featured group at the National Youth Choir Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City. This is the tenth time in 20 years that chorus director Trip McGill has had a group selected for the event. The following Ashbrook chorus students were selected for college choral festivals by individual audition: Molly Burns, Tonia Marquez, Gracie Bennett, Victoria Flake, Robert Rutherford, Lathan Flake, Steven Gates, Zach Leech, Leah Hart, Caroline Bowyer, Kyla Grigg, Julia Towner, Destiny Crawford, Madeline Swann, Alessandro Della Corte, Spenser Jones, Cameron Fagala and Rodney McElhaney. They participated in events at Furman University, Wingate University and Mars Hill University. Ethan Boyd, a seventh grader at Belmont Middle, won the school competition of the National Geographic Bee and advanced to the next level of the competition. Sarah Giang, a seventh grader, took second place and Nicholas Oplinger, a sixth grader, finished third. The Bessemer City High School Beta Club organized a canned food drive and collected more than 2,800 cans for the Bessemer City Crisis Center.

Carr Elementary third grade teacher Diane Osborne wrote a DonorsChoose.org fundraising request and received $350 to buy two Chromebooks for her classroom. Chapel Grove Elementary received a new American flag from N.C. Senator Kathy Harrington. She presented the flag to the student council and flag-raising students and talked to them about her role as a state lawmaker. The John Chavis Middle School student council and Chavis CARES Group participated in the Operation Christmas Child collection and donated 120 shoeboxes and $280.55 to the program. The John Chavis Middle Beta Club sponsored its annual canned food drive and collected 782 items for the Cherryville Area Ministries. The John Chavis Middle November Students of the Month were Raegan Nowowiecki, Ja’Narius Hopper, Lydia Bennett, Addie Seate, Lizbet Castillo, Hunter Goodman, Juliana Vollmer, Madison Hedgpeth and Andrew Beam. The November Teacher of the Month was Scott Pervine. The December Students of the Month were Addie Eaker, Ashton Ward, Tanner Tillman, Sam Kostiuk, Riley Huffman, Lindsay Lingerfelt, Victoria Pruett, Luv Shah and Mallory England. The December Teacher of the Month was Ashley Beam. The following John Chavis Middle students were chosen for the all-county chorus: Tabor Elmore, Cassidy Byers, Kristina Campbell, Ashlyn Beattie, Allie McCloskey, Andrey Goretoy, Noah Abernethy, Chase McNeill, Chloe Tate, Dawson Moore, Becca Knowles and Katie Branch. Ashton Ward and Grace Mull were selected as alternates. The Cramerton Middle School student council collected more than 2,000 cans of food for distribution throughout the Cramerton community during the holiday season. The following Cramerton Middle students were selected for the all-county band: Macy Long, Peyton Gillespie, Brooke Iman, Mayeth Martin, Mercy Le, Maggie Newton, Kendra McMahon, Sydney Dyer, DavidJohn Major, Christopher Schiovani, Kevin Giang, Emmanuael Ninyeh, Mia Gunn, Megan Kinstler, Michael Bame, Caleb Davis, Brooke Cox, Daniel Farquharson and Matthew Trotter. Cramerton Middle students Darby Parker, Anna Smith, Seirra Crockett, Natalie Vargas, Scout Stamey and Holt Cloninger were chosen to participate in the Wingate University Middle School Honors Chorus. East Gaston High School received the original handwritten score of its Alma Mater from the family of Bob Black, the school’s first band director. The Black family also donated its original score of the school’s Fight Song. Both songs were composed by Matt Wingard. The East Gaston Beta Club and National Honor Society raised $190 for The Gazette Empty Stocking Fund, which helps families in need. The donation was given in memory of Rusty McAbee and Cindy Cloninger. The East Gaston automotive program received a $10,000 grant from Ingersoll Rand. Automotive technology teacher Shane Hawkins won the “Real Tools for Schools” grant to fund improvements to the automotive classroom and curriculum. East Gaston student Logan McGurit was named the Time Warner Cable Scholar Athlete of the Week. Forest Heights Elementary welcomed Board of Education member Dot Cherry to one of their fourth grade classrooms where she observed students working on Chrome-

books. Ms. Cherry also spoke to students at the Gardner Park Elementary honors assembly. The broadcasting class at Forestview High School was the only student group in North Carolina selected to participate in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs (SRL). The nationwide program connects middle and high school students to local PBS stations and news professionals to produce original, student-generated video reports. The students’ first video assignment about a student from North Gaston High School was featured on the PBS website. Additionally, class advisers Melissa Heilig and Sally Griffin were selected as SRL’s Connected Educators of the Month for January. The W.C. Friday Middle December Students of the Month were Brianna Clark, Jonathan Gonzalez, Emilie Welch, Sydney Crain, Vince Smoot, Cassadi Bullock, Justus Schism, Vanaisja Cloud, Madison Friday, Lee Ann Christopher, McKenzie Glover and Stephen Laws. The January Students of the Month were Julian McLean, Maddie Routhier, Emma Murray, Nic Cooper, Sydney Farnsworth, Mallory Canup, Dylan Arms, Valerie Fuentes, Earl Withers, Jahden Gettys, Matthew Torres, Jackson Finger and Andrew Rhyne. The following W.C. Friday Middle students were selected for the all-county band: Andrew Bell, Elizabeth Cable, Blake Click, Patrick Gibson, Pablo Lopez, James Lowery, Sanitiago Ormanza, Haley Peninger, Ruben Pelayo-Quazada and Joshua Thomas. Dalton Hawkins and Colby Pasour were designated as the first chair player for their respective instrument. Gardner Park Elementary held a “Cans for Kids” drive and collected 2,014 food items for the Salvation Army. Fourth and fifth grade students at Gardner Park Elementary enjoyed a field trip to UNC-Charlotte that included a tour of the campus and attending a women’s basketball game. Students from Highland School of Technology competed in the District 6 Regional HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) competition. All 18 students placed in the top 10 in their events. The top performers will advance to the HOSA state leadership conference. The following Highland students were awarded merit scholarships: Max Miranda, Mercer University; Maria Araujo, Furman University; Manali Dhanak, Lenoir-Rhyne University; Corbin Bumeter, Savannah College of Art and Design; Alexis Brogden, Wingate University; Jeff Adams, Mars Hill College and Gardner-Webb University; Rozhanee Cornwell, Johnson and Wales University; Bryant Baucom, Brevard College; Logan Runyan, Queens University; and Madison Brooks, Lees McRae College. Highland student Cameron Nanagas was selected to participate in a special scholarship competition sponsored by Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund and associated with the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program. Highland won the Stock Market Game Fall Challenge with a total equity score of $123,182.17. Teacher Dan Froehlich is the team adviser. East Gaston had teams place second and third in the Challenge. Teacher Tammy Travis is their adviser. 36. Highland student Matt Noles earned perfect scores on the College Board World History and U.S. History subject tests. Students in the Highland FBLA (Future

Business Leaders of America) club sent 52 gift boxes to troops from the Charlotte area who are stationed in the United Arab Emirates. The following North Gaston High School students were selected for the allcounty band: Martin Chan, Cecilia Chan, Grace Wall, Derek Pelayo-Quezada, Andrew Tucker, Madison Greene, Alondra Martinez, Ricky Tanner, Elijah Davis, Alex Wilson, Sarah Large, Devin Wright, Keion Kennedy, Aramis Byrd and Nathan Linkous. Students at Page Primary sponsored a canned food drive and collected more than 1,200 cans for local families in need. Pinewood Elementary’s Girls on the Run team sponsored a food drive and donated 577 pounds of food to the Community Relief Organization of Mount Holly. The Pleasant Ridge Elementary second grade classes held a month-long “Kindness Campaign.” Students sold candy-grams and raised $230 for a local charity. The students also handed out notes acknowledging random acts of kindness. Pleasant Ridge Elementary sponsored a “Pasta for Pennies” fundraiser and collected $1,400 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Robinson Elementary received a $2,500 grant from Wal-Mart to purchase five iPads. Now, teachers will be able to have a class set to check out from the library. Robinson Elementary received a $300 grant from Keep Gastonia Beautiful for work on the school gardens. Sadler Elementary students are enjoying their first-ever book club thanks to teachers Troy Winder and Jessica Ellison. The teachers purchased books for the club with the help of a Ron L. Ensley grant from the Gaston County Education Foundation. Warlick Academy students enjoyed a field trip to Gaston College and had the opportunity to learn about college programs and job training. South Point High School collected $2,143.47 for the Belmont Community Organization and South Point Helping Hands. The National Honor Society and Beta Club organized the fundraiser. South Point student Grace Russell made her first presentation as senior student adviser to the North Carolina Board of Education on Wednesday, January 6. She is one of two students selected to serve on the state board. The South Point marching band was selected to perform at the Russell Athletic Bowl game in Orlando, Florida. The band performed with marching bands from across the country during the halftime show finale. Sherwood Elementary received a donation from Aetna of Gastonia. The company delivered 40 bags of holiday gifts, food, gloves, and blankets for students who participate in the weekend backpack program. The Sherwood Elementary November Citizens of the Month were Javian Fauntleroy, Wesley McPherson, Zion Clark, Aaron Bolton, Aiden Lodholtz, Aramis Points, Jason Roberts, Lexie Dawson, Nataly Lopez Martinez, Sara Mygatt, Brianna Cunningham, Rameses Garcia-Luna, Claire Sheehan, Lizzie Branton, Yareli Perez, Maddox Paige, Sevariah Gingles, Jazlyn Harrell, Rihanna Dorsey, Zach Turner, Brayden Auten, Emely Laverde, Delaney Gibson, Kaylee Wilbanks, Nicole Herrera, Camryn Tuttle, Madalyn Carhoff, Jaenay Sims, Candy Gomez, Karson Sloop, Katie Hovis, Sarah Layton Shiflet and Martin Wykle.

Page 14

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Gaston County events for the month of March March 1 thru April 9 – “A Stitch of Comfort: Quilting Patterns as an Art” – Gaston County Museum Quilting has been both a necessity and an art form throughout history. This exhibit brings to the forefront the artistry and beauty of some of the quilts in the museum’s collection, as well as their roots in American and North Carolinian history. See some of the tools of the trade, and learn how a quilt goes from a few scraps of fabric to a masterpiece. For more details call 704-922-7681 or visit www.gastoncountymuseum.org. lt goes from a few scraps of fabric to a masterpiece. March 1 thru May 14 – “Artwork by Mercedes Jelinek” – Gaston County Museum Mercedes Jelinek is a photographer who is currently a Resident Artist at Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina. She has built a freelance career working in several genres of photography- architecture, fashion, event, and journalism. The photographs in this exhibit are from a body of work called Remember. This collection has great meaning to her personally and displays how artwork can be used to cope with great changes in our lives. Jelinek explains that "after graduate school my mother rapidly started forgetting many details of her daily life. After researching how memories are made and recalled I began using what I learned about her condition in my work." Come see for yourself and experience Mercedes as she remembers. For more details call 704-922-7681 or visit www.gastoncountymuseum.org. March 11 – “MerleFest on The Road” – Gaston County Museum, 7:00PM-9:30PM The Gaston County Museum and the Town of Dallas are proud to present a fantastic evening of music in the Historic Dallas Courthouse. MerleFest, the popular Americana music festival founded by the legendary Doc Watson, will give music lovers in Gaston County and the surrounding area a sneak peak of this spring's festival when it brings MerleFest on the Road, an ensemble show of bands in its lineup, to the Concerts @ the Courthouse Series tonight. There will be three bands performing during this one night concert. Reservations are required and space is limited. GCM will continue to take reservations until all seats are full. For more information about this concert or to make your reservation please contact Jason Luker, Programs Coordinator, at 704-922-7681 ex 105 or at Jason.Luker@gastongov.com. March 12 – “Crowders Mountain State Park Trail Volunteer ~ 2016” – Crowders Mountain, 8:00AM11:30AM / The park needs volunteers to help maintain the hiking trails at Crowders Mountain. Come meet new people; work with experienced volunteers and park staff who are dedicated to maintain the beautiful hiking trails at the park. No experience is required. This will be a great learning opportunity as well. The trail work includes task such as: erosion control, rehabbing old trails, building new trails, and rerouting sections of eroded trails. All work tools, safety glasses, and hearing protection will be provided. Water and refreshments will also be provided. They ask that you bring work gloves, appropriate footwear for the outdoors, sunscreen, and insect repellant. You will meet at the Sparrow Springs Visitor Center for refreshments, fellowship, and a short safety meeting. For more details call the park office at 704-853-5375.

March 12 – “6th Annual Green River Revival” – U.S. National Whitewater Center, 10:00AM The sixth annual Green River Revival brings a touch of Ireland to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Kick off the festivities at the Color Me Green 5k, where participants will need the luck of the Irish to avoid the green dye as they run through the trails. The fun continues at 1:00PM when the river turns as green as a four leaf clover and live music kicks off on Belmont Abbey Island. For more details call 704-391-3900 or visit www. usnwc.org. March 12 – “Merry Market ~ Mount Holly” – Grand Hall, 10:00AM-4:00PM Shop over 45 local arts, crafts, and gifts vendors at the beautiful Grand Hall in downtown Mount Holly, located at 400 E. Central Ave. Get ready for Easter, Mother's Day, Graduation and so much more by shopping early at the Merry Market! For more details call the Mount Holly City Hall at 704827-3931. March 12 – “Bit of Hope Ranch ~ Open House/Membership Club Day” – Gastonia, 3:30PM-5:30PM Bring the family and enjoy snacks, pony rides, corn hole and the petting zoo. Those attending are also encouraged to walk the trails at this drop-by event. The ranch is located at 5001 CR Wood Road in Gastonia. This non-profit was founded in 2008 out of Meg Vanderbilt’s passion to help hurting children by allowing them to find hope and healing through a relationship with horses. Clients work together with the therapy team which includes a licensed professional counselor, an equine specialist and, of course, a horse. For more details please visit www.Bitof-HopeRanch. org. March 13 – “6th Annual Founder’s Day Celebration“– Mount Holly Historical Society, 2:00PM-4:00PM Everyone is invited for this special event to celebrate 137 years of Mount Holly history which will be held at the Society’s Museum, located at 131 S. Main Street, Mount Holly. The event is free and open to the public. Historic exhibits throughout the museum will be open for touring and light refreshments will be served. For more details call 704-951-3046 or email the museum at www.mhhistoricalsociety@ gmail.com March 13 – “Leprechaum Trek 2016” – Schiele Museum, 2:00PM4:00PM This event is a Leprechaun adventure for young children. Follow rainbows, search for lucky charms, and make your way through a maze of obstacles to find that pot o'gold! The cost is $3 with paid museum admission. Space is limited so please call 704-854-6676 for advance tickets. March 19 – “Grand Re-Opening: James H. Lynn Planetarium and Science Theater Saturday” – Schiele Museum, 11:00AM-4:00PM / (Note: Shows on the hour from 11AM4PM) Introducing the new James H. Lynn Planetarium and Science Theater! Enjoy a show featuring the new SciDome XD digital technology that immerses visitors in a full dome science theater experience. For more details call 704-854-6676 and order your $5 advance tickets today. Standard fees apply at the door if tickets not purchased in advance. March 19 – “Easter Egg Hunt” – Stowe Park, 2:30PM The park is located at 24 S. Main

Street in beautiful downtown Belmont. This event is for toddlers to 10 yearolds. Bring the family and friends, it’s free and open to the public. For more details call 704-825-8191. March 19 – “Whale of a Sale” – Gastonia Farmers Market, 6:30AM This event is presented by the Junior League of Gaston County. Proceeds go to support the work the Junior League does in the community. The market is located at 410 E. Long Ave. in Gastonia. A $2 cash only entrance fee will be charged at the door. For more details please call Junior League of Gaston County at 704-874-1810. March 19, 20 – “Peter Rabbit’s Garden Adventure” – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 11:00AM-3:00PM Come celebrate spring along with Peter and his family, including Mrs. Rabbit, Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail of course! There will be fun family activities including, craft-making, face painting and more will take place throughout the Garden including Lost Hollow. For more details call 704825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org. March 23 – “Annual Toddler Easter Egg Hunt” – Tuckaseege Park, 10:00AM The park is located at 105 Sports Lane in Mount Holly. This free event is open to toddlers and their care givers and is co-sponsored by the Mount Holly library. For more details call the City of Mount Holly at 704-827-3931. March 26 thru May 7 – “Through an Artist’s Eyes: Gaston County Schools Annual Art Show” – Gaston County Museum / Museum hours: Tuesday – Friday 10:00AM – 5:00PM and Saturday – 10:00AM – 3:00PM (excluding major holidays). The Gaston County Museum has partnered with Gaston County Schools to present artwork from the county’s elementary, middle, and high school students. This show will display over 600 pieces of artwork. There are 10 are categories including: painting, sculpture, fiber arts, photography, print making, comic art, ceramics, glass and digital art, drawing, and mixed media. The middle and high schools students will be judged and awards given to the top pieces in each category. For more details contact Jason Luker, Programs Coordinator, at 704-922-7681 ext. 105 or email Jason at Jason.Luker@ gastongov.com. For additional entertainment and information! “Muddy River Distillery” – Distillers of Carolina Rum & Queen Charlotte’s Reserve” Please visit the website for details on the hours, and reservations for the Owner Guided Tour with 40 spots available. Tours come with a souvenir shot glass and samples of their products. Thursday and Fridays: Staff Tour & Tasting $5 on the hour from 4-6pm, Owner Guided Tour & Tasting $8.50 7pm ~ Saturdays: Staff Tours & Tasting on the hour 126pm, Owner Guided Tour &Tasting 7pm. The distillery is located at 1500 River Drive, #100 in Belmont on the banks of the Catawba River. Muddy River was the first rum distillery in North Carolina and 5th legal distillery. They do everything in house including ferment, distill, age and bottle their products. Owners Caroline and Robbie Delaney would love to show you around the distillery. Their website is http://www.muddyriverdistillery. com/tours/. For more details please call 336-516-4190. “Lineberger Park Train” – Gasto-

nia Parks and Recreation, Lineberger Park is located at 632 E. Garrison Blvd. in Gastonia. Spring hours are as follows: March – April – May, Saturday 12PM-6PM and Sunday 1:30PM6PM. Summer hours are as follows: June – July – August, Thursday & Friday 10AM–1PM and 2PM–6PM, Saturday 12PM-6PM and Sunday 1:30PM-6PM. Fall hours for the train are as follows: September – October – November, Saturday 12PM-6PM and Sunday 1:30PM-6PM. The cost is $1 per person per ride. For private parties, day cares and schools call 704869-1018. The park reserves the right to cancel operations due to inclement weather. The winter, December – January – February the train is closed and will reopen in March. “U.S. National Whitewater Center” – This official U.S. Olympic training facility is the training ground for future Olympians offering kayaking, rafting, canoeing, rock climbing, mountainbiking and running trails – just minutes from hotels, restaurants, and shopping! Parking is $5 then you pay as you go or purchase one of the many ‘All Sport Passes’. For more details/reservations and to see what activities are available this time of year, call 704-391-3900 or visit www.usnwc.org. “Carolina Speedway: Dirt Track Racing Friday Nights!” (Every other Friday night during winter season) Carolina Speedway is attracting crowds every Friday night to its improved dirt race track in southern Gaston County. The 4/10 mile track has excited fans and drivers in Gaston County for 44 years. The gates open at 5:00PM with hot laps at 7:00PM. Racing starts at 8:00PM. For details call 704-869-0313 or visit www.driveondirt.com. Be sure to check out Dirt Track Racing School located at the Carolina Speedway. “The Cherryville Historical Museum” – The museum is located in downtown Cherryville in the Old City Hall built in 1911 to house the fire station, jail, police department, court room and the office of the city clerk. The building contains three levels of exhibit space where exhibits include a replica of the Old Academy, a 1950’s Beauty Shop, Little Church on Main Street, Optometrist Office, and other medical exhibits. Special attractions are the 1921 LaFrance fire engine, the New Year Shooters display, original Bull Durham painting, and the Genealogy & History Library. The hours of operation are Saturday from 10:00AM-2:00PM, other times by appointment and the admission is free! For more details call 704-435-8011 or email chvhistorical@att.net. “Restored ~ 1930’s Textile Mill House and R.L. Stowe’s Home” – The Belmont Historical Society is located in the R.L. Stowe historical home at 40 Catawba Street in Belmont. In the Stowe home you will find rooms displaying furnishings and artifacts from by-gone-eras of our history. Outside the home you may visit the newly restored 1890’s Self-standing Kitchen. Then you may tour the 1930’s textile mill house where you can explore life displayed in a mill worker’s home. There are various permanent exhibits, and “theme” exhibits which are changed regularly. To help continue restoring the 1950’s Stowe Park Train there are souvenirs for sale. Admission is free but donations are appreciated. The hours are Friday through Sunday from 1:00PM-5:00PM. For more details call 704-825-4848 or you may visit the website at www. belmontnc-hs.org.

“Mount Holly Historical Society” – Open every Saturday from 10:00AM1:00PM The Mount Holly Historic Exhibits are on display during these hours. Consider becoming a member and help preserve Mount Holly’s historic character! For more details email www.mhhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or visit on facebook at www.facebook. com/mhhsnc. “LEARN*MOVE*EAT*LIVE ~ DISCOVER YOU!” – Mount Holly Municipal Complex, open Tuesday thru Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM / The complex is located at 420 E. Central Avenue in Mount Holly. Discover YOU! is an interactive health and wellness center, and a great way to LEARN more about how to MOVE, EAT and LIVE! Focused on health promotion and wellness, Discover YOU! offers an experience that is informative, engaging, inspirational and fun for children and adults. The 5,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility offers 17 highly energizing and interactive health exhibits that will create awareness about the many choices people make daily and how these directly impact a person’s health and well-being. After experiencing the fun, educational exhibits Discover YOU! has to offer, visitors will be motivated to reflect on the connection between mind, body and spirit, as well as making lifestyle changes to enhance their health and quality of life. For more details please call 704-827-6770 or visit www.discover-you.org. “Permanent Exhibit Update – Period Hotel Rooms” – Gaston County Museum, the Gaston County ~ Free Museum’s newly renovated period hotel rooms is open to the public. These rooms will explore the history of the Hoffman Hotel starting from its beginnings through the 1920s. Patrons will learn about several types of guests including: a Confederate Officer, a lawyer, a doctor and his family. Visitors will see what it would have been like to stay at the hotel as well as traveling through Gaston County. The exhibit will feature interactive displays and a new hands-on children’s area. The museum is housed in an 1852 brick Greek revival style hotel that has been adapted for visitors and travelers of today. The museum contains North Carolina’s largest public collection of horse-drawn vehicles consisting of sleighs, drays, wagons, and buggies and is the home of the Ties that Bind: Carolinas Textile Exhibit. Museum hours: Tuesday – Friday 10:00AM – 5:00PM, and Saturday 10:00AM – 3:00PM. For more details call 704-922-7681 x105 or you may visit the Museum’s website at www. gastoncountymuseum.org. “Belmont Abbey College – Performing Arts” – For the 2016 schedule or tickets call 704-461-6787 or you may visit www.belmontabbeycollege.edu/academic/performingarts/ abbey-players-theater-schedule.aspx. Information is also available for the “2016 ~ Arts at the Abbey Concerts” at www.bac.edu or call 704-461-6813. “Carolina Pro Musica ~ Arts at the Abbey 2016 ~ Belmont Abbey College Basilica” – For the 2016 schedule please contact Karen Hite Jacob at www.carolinapromusica@gmail.com. The Abbey Basilica is located at 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd., on exit 26 off I-85 in Belmont. For questions or additional information please contact Karen at karenjacob@bac.edu. The concerts are free but donations are gladly accepted!

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Page 15

Do the Right Thing Jimboree in Stanley Gaston Schools has named its Do the Right Thing winners. Trinity Rochester Elementary Winner Carr Elementary School. Parents: Connie Rochester & Matt Rochester. Assistant principal Logan McGuire writes: "A parent of a student had called me concerned that his student had left his new toboggan hat on the bus. We checked with the bus driver and the schoolâ€™s lost and found only to be unable to locate the hat anywhere. A couple of Emily Beatty days later, I learned that the student had received his hat back. As it turns out, Trinity who rode the same bus, had noticed a young boy on the bus with the hat. Trinity not only recognized the hat didnâ€™t belong to the boy who had it but it looked like the hat that had gone missing a couple of days earlier. Trinity took it into her own hands to speak with this younger boy respectfully telling him that the hat did not belong to him, and that he needed to â€œDo the Right Thingâ€? and return it to itâ€™s original owner. Trinity was then able to return the hat to its correct owner herself. Trinity could have gone several ways with this situation, but she handled it very maturely and responsibly, not only doing the right thing herself, but encouraging Trinity Rochester and teaching others younger than her to do the right thing, as well." Emily Beatty Middle School Winner 6th grade, Bessemer City Middle. Parent: Nancy Beatty. Angela Greason, teacher assistant, writes: "I would like to nominate Emily Beatty for the â€œDo the Right Thingâ€? award. I work in a self-contained class for students with special needs. We had a new student that has special needs to start in our school at the end of January. Normally, I have to go to the students and ask them to please talk to and include my students in their activities. It is very rare for middle school students to initiate this on their own. When I first took my new student to PE class, Emily came up to me and ask her to join in their Jaylen McCree activities. At the end of class, Emily asked me if she could give this student a friendship necklace and her phone number so she could text her. The next morning my student came to school and said that Emily had texted her and told her she was sick and would not be at school that day. Emily did not want my student to worry about why she was not at school. Later that week Emily asked if my student could come to her table at lunch and sit with her. I also noticed that she introduced my student to her other friends. Emily walks my student back to class after lunch and tells her she will see her tomorrow and gives her a quick hug. My student looks forward to seeing her everyday during lunch. Her eyes light up every time she sees Emily. Emily is a great example of how we should treat others, the way we want to be treated." Jaylen McCree High School Winner 11th grade, Forestview High School. Parent: Tonya Bolch. Jenny Cabe, assistant principal, writes: "The cafeteria can be a hard place for students in high school. That is not the case when a student like Jaylen McCree is in your lunch. As most of us can remember, most students have a permanent place in the cafeteria. Jaylen doesnâ€™t have a â€œspot.â€? He looks around and makes sure no one is sitting alone. He strikes up a conversation and is truly interested in who they are. No one ever wants to feel invisible and Jaylen will go the extra mile to make sure that doesnâ€™t happen."

LoVE sea

your days at

$"3*##&"/ t 4065) 1"$*'*$ t &6301& t .&9*$0 "6453"-*" t /&8 ;&"-"/% t "-"4," t 4065) ".&3*$"

/$1USBWFM DPN

-PSFO $PMCVSO $BTTFZ 3FDPSF 877-270-7260 Cassey.Recore@cruiseplanners.com

'45 4539068 / C45 034468-50

March 26 , 2016 James â€œJimâ€? Abernathy is a 15 year veteran of the Stanley Police Dept. He has two children, JC who is 17 and a senior at East Gaston and Hannah who is 19. Jim is an East Gaston alum and attended Western Carolina and graduated with a major in political science from UNC Charlotte. Jim is also an avid photographer and a stringer for several area media outlets. Jim is 46 and had a quad bypass on Feb 26th. The community is having a fund raiser to help offset the medical costs and other expenses. Hotdog â€œJimboreeâ€? for Jim Abernathy, Saturday, March 26th 11am-2pm, at Stanley Community Building, 113 E. College St., Stanley, $5 per plate, two hot dogs with works and chips.

National Network Classified Ads

Reader Advisory: the National Trade Associations we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

Travel ALL INCLUSIVE CRUISE package on the Norwegian Sky out of Miami to the Bahamas. Pricing as low as $299 pp for 3 Day or $349 pp for 4 Day (double occupancy) - ALL beverages included! For more info. call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPtravel.com Auto Donations Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398 Autoâ€™s Wanted CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! Weâ€™re Nationwide! Call For Quote: 1-888-4162330. Education/Career Training 25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a driver for Stevens Transport! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! New drivers earn $800+ per week! PAID CDL TRAINING! Stevens covers all costs! 1-888-734-6714 drive4stevens.com Education/Career Training ACCOUNTING & PAYROLL TRAINING PROGRAM! Online career training can get you job ready now! TRAIN AT HOME NOW! Financial aid if qualified! HS Diploma/GED required. 1-877-253-6495 Education/Career Training AIRLINE CAREERS. Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly. Call AIM 888-686-1704 Employment Make $1,000 Weekly! Paid in Advance! Mailing Brochures at Home. Easy Pleasant work. Begin Immediately. Age Unimportant. www. MyHomeIncomeNow55.com Health **SPRING SPECIAL** VIAGRA 60x (100 mg) +20 â€œBonusâ€? PILLS for ONLY $114.00 plus shiping. NO PRESCRIPTION Needed! VISA/MC payment. 1-888386-8074 www.newhealthyman.com Satisfaction Guaranteed!! Health & Fitness VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 10 FREE. SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed. FREE Shipping! 24/7 CALL NOW! 1-888-223-8818 Medical CPAP/BIPAP supplies at little or no cost from Allied Medical Supply Network! Fresh supplies delivered right to your door. Insurance may cover all costs. 800-216-6153 Medical VIAGRA & CIALIS! 50 pills for $95. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed. Money back guaranteed! 1-877-743-5419 Miscellaneous CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Competitive Offer! Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960. Miscellaneous/Travel

EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES - the ultimate vacation! See Europe from the comfort of a Viking or Avalon luxury cruise ship. For the experience of a lifetime, call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPtravel.com for more information Miscellaneous CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies. com Miscellaneous/Satellite TV Lower Your TV, Internet & Phone Bill!!! Fast Internet from $15/mo - qualifying service. Limited Time Offer. Plus, FREE $300 GiftCard. Call 855-693-1333 Miscellaneous CHILDRENâ€™S BOOK â€“ Looking for some wholesome reading material for your young reader? Check out Richard the Donkey and His LOUD, LOUD Voice at www. RichardTheDonkey.com Miscellaneous Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+ Miscellaneous SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-290-8321 to start your application today! Motorcycles WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI Z1-900 (1972-75), KZ900, KZ1000 (1976-1982), Z1R, KZ 1000MK2 (1979,80), W1-650, H1-500 (1969-72), H2-750 (1972-1975), S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, KH250, KH400, SUZUKI-GS400, GT380, HONDA-CB750K (19691976), CBX1000 (1979,80) CASH!! 1-800-772-1142 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.com Wanted To Buy Cash for unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS or STOP SMOKING PRODUCTS! Free Shipping, Best Prices & 24 hr payment! Call 1-855-4404001 www.TestStripSearch. com. Habla Espanol. Miscellaneous HOTELS FOR HEROES â€“ to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at www.fisherhouse.org Autos Wanted CAPITAL CLASSIC CARS Buying All European & Classic Cars. Any Condition. Any Location. Porsche, Mercedes, Jaguar & More! Top Dollar Paid. CapitalClassicCars.com Steve Nicholas 571-282-5153 Health & Fitness VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 50 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 1-866-312-6061 Health & Fitness Viagra!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00! Your #1 trusted pro-

vider for 10 years. Call 1-888-797-9024 Health & Fitness **SPRING SPECIAL** VIAGRA 60x (100 mg) +20 â€œBonusâ€? PILLS for ONLY $114.00 plus shipping. NO PRESCRIPTION Needed! VISA/ MC payment. 1-888386-8074www.newhealthyman.com Satisfaction Guaranteed! Health & Fitness VIAGRA 100mg, CIALIS 20mg. 50 tabs $90 includes FREE SHIPPING. 1-888-8360780 or www.metromeds. online Miscellaneous For Sale KILL BED BUGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killers/KIT. Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com Miscellaneous AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204 Miscellaneous Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888909-9905 18+. Miscellaneous !!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch. 1930-1980. Top Dollar paid!! Call Toll Free 1-866-433-8277 Miscellaneous Lower Your TV, Internet & Phone Bill!!! Get Fast Internet from $15/mo - qualifying service. Limited Time Offer. Plus, get a FREE $300 Gift Card. Call 855-407-0796 Today! Wanted to Buy Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 Wanted to Buy CASH PAID- up to $25/ Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT. 1-800-3711136 Wanted to Buy ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads. com for more information Announcements Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company. SAPA Education/Instruction EARN YOUR High School Diploma at home in a few short weeks. Work at your own pace. First Coast Academy. Nationally accredited. Call for free brochure. 1-800-6581180, extension 82. www.fcahighschool.org SAPA Financial Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer

Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company. SAPA Health & Medical Struggling with DRUGS or ALCHOHOL? Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free Assessment. 800-511-6075 Health & Medical Stop OVERPAYING for your prescriptions! Save up to 93%! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy service to compare prices and get $15.00 off your first prescription and FREE Shipping. 1-800-265-0768 Health & Medical Got Knee Pain? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Get a painrelieving brace at little or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients Call Health Hotline Now! 1800-480-7503 Health & Medical VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! Cut your drug costs! SAVE $$! 50 Pills for $99.00. FREE Shipping! 100% Guaranteed and Discreet. CALL 1-800290-0314 Health & Medical VIAGRA!! 52 Pills only $99.00! The Original Little Blue Pill, your #1 Trusted Provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1-888-410-1767. SAPA Hunting & Fishing FREE HUNT!! ENTER TO WIN! Hunt Some of the Biggest Deer in the Country! 30% OFF PACKAGES WHILE THEY LAST! $4900. 1-330-763-3301 www.BestDeerHuntOHIO.com Legal SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-670-4805 to start your application today! Legal SERIOUSLY INJURED by a TRUCK or Commercial Vehicle? Get Justice! Weâ€™ve Recovered Millions. No money out of pocket! Call Our Attorneys for a FREE CONSULTATION! 1-866803-2781. Legal SERIOUSLY INJURED in an AUTO ACCIDENT? Let us fight for you! If our attorneys donâ€™t win, you donâ€™t pay!! Call today for a FREE consultation! 1-866-708-0811. Miscellaneous Safe Step Walk-In Tub: Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door. Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Installation Included.Call 800-701-9850 for $750 Off. Miscellaneous A PLACE FOR MOM. The nationâ€™s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-800-319-8705 Miscellaneous AT&T U-Verse Internet starting at $15/month or TV & Internet starting at $49/month

for 12 months with 1-year agreement. Call 1- 800-9921743 to learn more. (Not Valid in Virginia). Miscellaneous Xarelto users have you had complications due to internal bleeding (after January 2012)? If so, you MAY be due financial compensation. If you donâ€™t have an attorney, CALL Injuryfone today! 1-800531-0529 Miscellaneous MAKE A Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call now 1-888909-9978 18+. SAPA Miscellaneous AVIATION GRADS WORK WITH JETBLUE, BOEING, DELTA AND OTHERS START HERE WITH HANDS ON TRAINING FOR FAA CERTIFICATION. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED. CALL AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE 1-866-7245403 SAPA Miscellaneous Find the Right Carpet, Flooring & Window Treatments. Ask about our 50% off specials & our Low Price Guarantee. Offer Expires Soon. Call now 888-546-0135 Miscellaneous Does your auto club offer no hassle service and rewards? Call American Auto Club (ACA) & Get $200 in ACARewards! (new members only) Roadside Assistance & Monthly Rewards. Call 800867-3193. Miscellaneous CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS - HIGHEST PRICES! Shipping prepaid. 1 DAY PAYMENT. 1-888-366-0958. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies. com Miscellaneous DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-800416-1496 Satellite TV DISH TV 190 channels plus Highspeed Internet Only $49.95/mo! Ask about a 3 year price guarantee & get Netflix included for 1 year! Call Today 1-800-351-0850 Satellite TV Switch to DIRECTV and get a $100 Gift Card. FREE Whole-Home Genie HD/DVR upgrade. Starting at $19.99/ mo. New Customers Only. Donâ€™t settle for cable. Call Now 1-800-371-5352 Satellite TV DISH Network - new customers save up to $1000! Free Hopper Upgrade. TV starts at $19.99/mo. Bundle Internet & Save! Call Today 888-2838693 Satellite TV 19.99/mo. for DIRECTV - HD Channels + Genie HD DVR + 3 months FREE HBO, SHOW, MAX & STARZ + FREE NFL Sunday Ticket! Call Now 888437-6598

FOR NATIONAL RATES & PLACEMENT CALL 704-484-1047

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 16

South Point reloading for 2016 By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

In 2015 the South Point baseball program had a good year. The Red Raiders went 17-5. They got as far as the 2nd round in the playoffs before being bumped in a close 5-4 loss to Piedmont. The 2015 Red Raiders were a talented lot. They had great pitching and powerful batting. The 2015 season would end with many players moving on to bigger and better things. The 2016 Red Raiders will need to reload and adjust. This year's roster will have some very good players on board. But the 2016 Red Raiders will need to tweak their game to live up to their potential. The Red Raiders will need to make sure they play smart, mistake free baseball. Team baseball. "We graduated a lot of talent," head coach Jason Lineberger said. "The best pitcher and hitter we had." Last year the Red Raiders had an assortment of superstar players. One such player was Garrett Davilla. Davilla had an awesome year that ended with him signing a six figure rookie contract with the Kansas City Royals. This year the Red Raiders don't have that kind of power and star quality. But they may not need it. This year everyone will need to pick up their game. Every player will have a chance to step up and do their part. "We are not going to have a stand out star," Lineberger added. "We are going to need to work together as a team. We will need to execute the little things." Last year the Red Raiders could rely on one of the power players to pick up the slack.

Superior athleticism could make up for mistakes. That was a blessing and a curse. it's great when a player can quickly recover from a mistake. But if a team relies on that it can hamper other player's growth and make a team lose focus on playing smart baseball. "Last year we were talented enough to get away with mistakes," Lineberger added. "This year we can't. Not that we don't we are not without talent. We just need to rely on execution on offense and defense. Lineberger makes a valid point. The 2016 Red Raiders are talented. The 2015 team wasn't better. It was just stoked different. This year there are a lot of good players across the board. When the Red Raiders are on the field they will rely on a platoon of pitchers over a standard pitching rotation. This approach is creative and may be a good use of the available talent. "Our pitchers aren't going to blow past people," Lineberger said. "We will locate and change pitches." The Red Raiders are still working on their pitching rotation. The concept behind the platoon system is to keep batters off balance with a series of different pitchers. South Point will employ a series of fresh arms to overwhelm opposing batters. "We got a lot of people capable of pitching," Lineberger said. We are going to give them different looks." The Red Raiders do have one returning pitcher. Closer, Nolan Wilson. "Nolan is our only returning signee,"Lineberger said. "He is going to Belmont Abbey. He is our reliefer and closer." The pitching platoon will

BENEFIT FOR JIM ABERNATHY

rely on an infield that is still not set. The Red Raiders have players competing for every stop on the field. Nothing is taken for granted. A starter will have to earn a spot. More so this year than in most. "Our defense is solid," Lineberger stated. "We expect to be good defensively. We were good last year. The new guys are good." Third base will be manned by Grant Tilley or Scottie Lee. Second base is a competition between Matt Owens and Scottie Lathe. The battle for shortstop will pit Mason Seacrest against Ethan Shell. First base will put Jarrett Cooper and Tim Davilla vying for a spot. Davilla and Walker Featherston will spend time behind the plate in the catcher's spot. "Going in no position is set," Lineberger added. "We have more competition then ever before." The situation in the outfield is just as fluid. Davis Ray, Jon Ledford, Ryland Etherton, Evan Mauldin, Nick Farmer and Camden Hale will all be fighting to get one of the three outfield slots. "As in the infield we have a lot coming back," Lineberger said. “Four are seniors in the outfield." When the South Point offense goes to work they will have some well rounded hitters. Offense output will be provided by Mason Seacrest, Camden Hale, Grant Tilley and Tim Davilla.. "We are pretty good swinging the bat." Lineberger said. Lineberger is going into 2016 wide open. He wants to see who can deliver. Players will get a shot. If they show they need to be on the mound, in the field or in the batter's box they will get playing time.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Mt. Holly Middle School takes Google Expedition A demonstration gave Mount Holly Middle students the chance to experiment the new Google Expeditions application on Google Cardboard — an inexpensive device that converts a smartphone into a virtual reality device. Google Expeditions allows teachers to take their classes around the world. Using a tablet, Mount Holly Middle teachers Bridget Students took trips to Chichen Itza, underwater and even into Styka and Katie Arrington space, all from inside the comfort of their school. guided students wearing Gaston Schools photo virtual reality viewers and highlighted areas of interest in each of the students’ displays. Students were able to look around the area they were touring by tilting their heads up and down and side to side. If a student was facing the wrong way to see what the teacher had selected, arrows would pop up on the screen to guide them in the right direction. "I think it's a great way to give kids a hands-on experience, to see what they're learning about in class," said Styka. Teachers can choose from a library of over 100 destinations such as Mars, the Great Barrier Reef and the Great Wall of China. The trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas—360° photo spheres, 3D images and video, ambient sounds—annotated with details, points of interest, and questions. The curriculum was developed by Google Expeditions' partners: PBS, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the American Museum of Natural History, the Planetary Society, and the Palace of Versailles.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Need A Classified?

704-739-7496

EAST GASTON WARRIORS PLAYER

OF THE

WEEK

James “Jim” Abernathy is a 15 year veteran of the Stanley Police Dept. He has two children, JC who is 17 and Hannah who is 19. Jim is 46 and had a quad bypass on Feb 26th. The community is having a fund raiser to help offset the medical costs and other expenses.

Allen Drug Proud Supporter of East Gaston Athletics

220 S. Main St., Stanley Beside the Woodshed

Mon-Fri 8am-6pm • Sat 9am-1pm

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Page 17

Need A Classified?

CLASSIFIED ADS AUTOS-TRUCKS

CAMPERS

1986 27’ CLASS A HONEY MOTORHOME, very good cond. Everything works only has 30K miles, 454 Chevy motor with overdrive trans, almost new tires, 1996 F-350 EXT. CAB. Quad new airbags in front, full bed in doors, flatbed, V-10, AT, air. Runs back, bunk over front seats and Great. $5900. 704-297-0754. table converts. $6500. 828-2449572. 2010 SCION TC $8,900, Sport RIDGE CAMPcoupe. Well maintained, excellent SCENIC condition, Pioneer sound system, GROUND, Cherryville, NC. RV, rear spoiler, IPod/MP3USBs, tent sites, cabins. Ask about 20% dual sunroofs, new tires, Con- OFF Seasonal Sites. 704-284sumer Guide Best Buy Car, great 4721. gas mileage, 83,000 miles. Ex- WANT TO BUY: Pop-Up Campcellent Value. 704-471-1967. ers. Call 828-429-3935. 2007 FORD 500 for SALE – SEL Model, V6, Black with tan interior, 102K miles. Excellent condition. $5,500.00. 704-825-1687.

1996 FORD TAURUS LX, all electric, with sunroof. Needs work on power steering lines. Driven daily. All options work. $1000 cash obo. 704-465-4304, 704-215-3493. 2009 CHEVY AVEO, $3800 obo. 5 speed, 81,169 miles, 27MPG. 704-482-5351 between 8am 4pm. CHEVROLET LUMINA LTZ. Great mechanical shape, only needs brakes & 1 gauge. 1998, 140k miles, asking $1600. Many photos available, text 980-9892209 for link. Thank you, Tanya. 2013 HONDA CIVIC EX, $12,000. 71K miles, perfect cond. Call or text 828-808-2848. 1991 F-450, 7.3 DIESEL, 172k miles, auto, utility bed. Cold AC, good tires, $3800. 704-472-1000.

EMPLOYMENT CLASS A CDL TRACTOR/ TRAILER DRIVER. Must have clean driving history, DOT Physical/Drug/Alcohol test required. NC to Florida. Out 3 to 4 days. Home W/E. Pays $.35 to $.45 per mile. Based on experience. Briarpatch Greenhouses, Inc, 2427 Oak Grove Rd, Shelby, NC. 704481-0014. CARGUTS INC IS HIRING A POSITION in the Warehouse. Must be able to work full time, we need someone who will be dependable and will be able to work every day, Monday thru Friday. Must be able to follow directions and be able to lift at least 50 lb. Must be able to pass a drug test. If interested, please apply in person at Carguts Inc. 360 Ossee Street, Blacksburg, SC 29702.

1989 FORD VAN, $1500. good OVER THE ROAD TRACTOR TRAILER DRIVERS needed for condition. 704-769-4137. Auto Transport Business. Experi2004 OLDS ALERO, V6, 4 door, ence needed or will train. Home white, all power, 140k, A1 shape, most weekends, Contact Shane. $2500 OBO. 828-248-1950, 828- 704-477-7631. 429-8197. PEAK WORKFORCE HIRING 2008 FORD F-150 FX4 V8, auto, Assembly Techs 1 & 3 Shift. Ap4 door, lots of updates, good ply in person at Meritor; 160 Ash truck, only $15,000. 828-286- Drive, Forest City, NC. 3077.

FOR RENT REBUILT MOTORS 305 - 30 over, all new parts. Short block in 400 new rings, barrens, & pistons BATTLE FOREST APTS Kings Mtn. is accepting applicawith new starter. 828-980-0997. tions for the waiting list for 1&2 BR units. Accessible units deBOATS signed for persons with disabili1992 FOUR WINDS BOAT, 190 ties subject to availability. Rental Horizon. Exc. cond., 250 hrs, nev- Assistance subject to availability; er been rained on. Asking $7000. Rent based on income; Section 8 vouchers accepted. $25 appl. 704-692-8926. fee, credit/criminal ck. reqd. Visit BOAT: 2 SEATER, 2 live wells, us at 210 Cleveland Avenue, M-F foot control trolling motor by Bill 1-3pm, or by appt. Call 704-739Dance Outdoors, on trailer with 8302 for more info. Equal Hous2 extra spare wheels. Best offer. ing Opportunity. This institution is professionally managed by Part704-487-4774, 704-477-0367. nership Property management, an equal opportunity provider and BUSINESS SERVICES employer. FOR SALE BAD WATER? Get your water checked for FREE. Just call Ron SEPARATE OVEN, $150. at 704-516-1262. Stove-top, $75 and white sink, FURNITURE REFINISHING. $25. All like new, stove and oven Retiree will repair & restore your color black. 704-477-6323. antiques & household furniture. COLEMAN XTREME 150 QT. Out-dated furniture?? Ask about COOLER, navy blue with wheels, Durable, Furniture Coatings & Ac- (removal), used once, $60. KERcent Glazing. Reasonable rates. OSUN OMNI 120 Kerosene References. 30+ years experi- Heater, like new, with accessories, $100. NORDIC TRACK ence. 704-860-2662. ACHIEVER Sporting Goods Ski PROPERTY CLEAN-UP, light Machine, like new, $200. 704landscaping, gutter cleaning and 477-2744. more. Call for free estimate. 70410FT WOODEN STEP LADDER, 470-7451. good condition, $50. Utility trailer, all metal, 4x8ft, 20” deep, single Campers axle, good tires, 2 tail lights & 2008 5TH WHEEL TRAILER, 35 over load springs, like new, $700. FT LONG, 3 slides & truck to pull 3 point hitch fertilizer distributor, it. 2005 Dodge Ram, 3/4 ton die- good condition, $400. 42” ventisel, 80k miles, $45,500 for both. lation fan, no motor, make offer. 704-482-2912. 704-739-4494. 100 YR OLD ANTIQUE CANO2014 COACHMEN FREEDOM PY Queen size bed, $400. 704EXPRESS, 31 ft., 2 slide outs, 739-7726. TV, DVD player, fireplace, queen bed, sleeps 5, $29,000 or best WHEELCHAIR FOR QUADRAoffer, like new condition. 704-482- PLEGIC. New, $4500 obo. 704538-9742. 9997.

Call Kathy today! 704.739.7496

FOR SALE

BROWN LEATHER COUCH (LANE FURNITURE). 3 CUSHIONS, 77” LONG, RECLINERS ON BOTH ENDS, VERY GOOD CONDITION. $600.00 OR BO CALL 704-812-8647.

RARE OPPORTUNITY FOR IMMEDIATE SALE!! Commercial Walk-in Refrigerator. 12 door unit, approx. 200 sf of interior space, full metal shelving. (12) “Styleline” glass doors, Model 4S3-C. (3) “Bohn” Refrigeration two-fan units. Model ADT1040F, 1/15HP fan motors. (1) Trenton External Compressor Unit, 115 Volts, 1 ph. 60Hz, total amps, 4.2 1/15HP fan motors. Encloses approximately 200 sf. Back Wall, 14’ 4”x19. Good condition, $4,999 or best offer. 704-482-2593, 704-6924991. mikenn@me.com, Shelby.

SEMI-ELECTRIC HOSPITAL BED. Has an electric head and foot section, controlled with a hand remote. Raises manually for height. New. $500 OBO. Hendersonville Area. 828-489-7701.

LEE CAMPER COVER for sale. Fits 1994 to 2000 Dodge trucks, short bed, green in color, $125. Cost over $1400 new. 704-6924449.

ADJUSTABLE HOSPITAL BED with 3 air mattresses and 2 pumps. $500 obo. 704-538-9742. GUN PARTS, AMMO, STOCKS barrels, etc. Call for more info. 704-538-7575.

GRAVEL, 8 TO 9 TON, Crusher Run, $170 per load. Washed gravel, $220 per load. Dirt, topsoil, etc. 704-692-6025 FOR SALE: 5000 WATT 10HP PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS Briggs and Stratton Generator, WITH SCRATCH PADS! Press $300 obo. 704-488-5470. Room Printing. 704-482-2243.

704-538-5788, WHITE ‘JENNY LYNN’ CRIB & changer, good cond, $80. White SWIMMING POOLS: Liners, Fil- wedding dress & slip, sz 16, $75. ters, Pumps, Chemicals, all sup- Proform T35 treadmill, $50. Anplies. Ask about our above ground tique wicker sofa, rocker, chair & footstool, $500. Antique horse pools. KM Pools 704-739-1711. drawn sleigh, $1500. 704-434MOVING, MUST SACRIFICE, 7482. LOSING $1000. NEW Samsung PADDED TOP CEDAR CHEST, 3dr. stainless steel refrigerator, 2 like new, $175. or best offer. Call ice makers, Pd. $2300, will sell, 704-487-5221 $1300 cash. 704-600-6229, 864HOME THEATER, BRAND NEW 491-0625. still in box. Full HD 1080, 3D, 14CT GOLD DIAMOND PRINcomes with 72 inch pull down CESS RING, size 6, $600 obo. screen, $1000. Serious inquiries 704-476-6672. only. 704-300-2410. 82” MITSUBUSHI CINEMA TV, ATTENTION DOLL COLLECHD, Flat Screen, Mutimedia, TORS: four Holiday Barbies, $1300. With stands & remote. ‘90, ‘91, ‘97 & ‘98, $70 each. No 704-600-6659. checks/credit cards, cash only! SMALL POLE BARN WITH tent 828-691-5662. & poles, $200 obo. 1952 Tractor, POWER WHEELCHAIR. Farmall 8, $900 obo. 609-706- Shoprider Streamer Sport Power0710. chair Model 888WA. Joystick conNEW CUSTOM BUILT dog kennel. 12’x12’x6; tall with lockable gate and tarp. Asking $600. 704692-8926.

troller, Maximum Speed 5mph, Up to 10 miles per charge. Lightly used. $1,200 OBO. Hendersonville Area. 828-489-7701.

PLENTY OF RECORD ALBUMS MOTORCYCLES and Stereo Equipment. Call 8282007 YAMAHA 650, like new, 245-9186. 17K miles, new battery, $3200 USED CAMPER TOPS: Various Sizes & Styles. Please call 828- FIRM. 864-489-2980. 980-0881.

2009 YAMAHA TTR 125 4 stroke WHITE ELECTRIC RANGE, Dirt Bike. New front & back tire, good condition, $90. 828-395- excellent condition, kids trail bike, never raced! $1450 firm. 1161. 704-692-4449. 2009 YAMAHA TTR 125 4 stroke Dirt Bike. New front & back tire, PETS/LIVESTOCK excellent condition, kids trail bike, never raced! $1450 firm. 704-692AKC SIBERIAN PUPPIES. UTD 4449. on shots, wormed. Parents on OAK DINING ROOM TABLE with site. Blue eyes. Ready to go. 4 chairs & leaf, good condition, Males & females. 704-418-1360, $125. 828-748-8417. 704-480-7353. 18” DOLLS, LEE MIDDLETON, clothes made to fit. Several TWO BRED REGISTERED heifers, due in lamps, crocheted afghans small HEREFORD & large. CKC Yorkie puppies. May, for sale. 704-813-9960 American Girl Easter dresses. TOY AUSTRALIAN SHEP828-245-5314. HERDS 2 females, white, $250. SWIMMING POOLS! 16x32 in- 3 males, red & blue merle, $200. ground, completely installed, 20 9 week old. ASDR Registry. 704years experience. Come & See! 482-0178. Retail, $20,900. Now $10,995. READY MARCH 5TH, BEAUTIOffer Limited. 828-657-5944. FUL Yorkie & Maltese puppies. FLAGS & FLAG POLES IN Will stay small, easy to train, STOCK. J Johnson Sales, Inc. $400. Contact Deborah, 704828-245-5895. 649-0530, leave message or text TRAILERS, UTILITY CARGO, anytime. DUMP. 50+ in stock parts & service. All models. J Johnson Sales, LIVESTOCK FOR SALE Pure Breed, Angus Bulls and Heifers. Inc. Forest City. 828-245-5895. Jacob Fork Ranch. Call 704-538STORAGE BUILDINGS. Cash 1199 or 704-600-7847. specials or rent to own. Payments from $63 month. Come see us! PEKINGESE AND PEKA - TZU FREE delivery & FREE setup. J and Shi-Tzu. PUPPIES shots Johnson Sales, Inc. Forest City. and wormed, CKC registered. 828-245-5895. Text 864-490-4979.

Personal Classiﬁed Ads ONE WEEK

$ 50 y

Onl

TWO WEEKS

Only

Commercial/For Proﬁt Ads •Business Services •Child Care •Rental Ads and ALL For Proﬁt Ads!

THREES WEEK

00 Per Week

Based on 20 word limit per week - add 30¢ per word, per week over 20

Only

Classiﬁed Deadline is Friday at 3pm for the following Thursday’s Edition

Clip & Mail Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________City______________________ Zip____________ Email _____________________________________________________ Phone: __________________________ Ad Copy: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ (Be sure to include phone number in ad copy.) Total Words________ Number of Issues _______ Classification ______________________________

Amount Enclosed $_____________ Mail this form to: PO Box 769 • Kings Mountain • NC 28086 OR Call Kathy at 704-739-7496

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 18

2016 East Gaston baseball, an infusion of youth By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

Last year the East Gaston Warriors went 11-10. A combination of solid pitching and productive play from both the offense and defense was enough to get the Warriors a playoff spot. Sadly, the Warriors were quickly ejected from further play when they were up ended by South Point. After the season was over East Gaston graduated a significant portion of their starting lineup. 2016 is now here and the East Gaston Warriors are gearing up for what they hope will be an action packed season. There will be holes to fill and challenges that will need to be met. East Gaston is only returning five varsity players. Four were starters. That will mean a new crop of players will have to step up if EG is to have a good run in 2016. Coach Randy Sellers understands the task ahead. Along with the Warriors coaching staff Sellers hopes the 2016 Warriors will work together to make up for any holes in the offense and defense. "We are going to be young," Sellers said. Returning varsity players in 2016 will be, Josh Benfield, Tyler Hannifin, Nash Jamison, Luke Murphy and Kyle Trueet. When asked about team weaknesses, Sellers was frank. "We are inexperienced at the varsity level," he said. "We lack depth." The lack of experience and depth can cut both ways. With returning players you know what you have. With junior varsity players coming up you need to figure out what you have. The plus side to that is the fact that there will be a level of determination and drive in the new players. They will want to prove they are ready for the next level. Sellers and the East Gaston Warriors also have a lot to work with. The Warriors have strong pitching, team speed and solid situational hitters. Those assets will come in handy as the season rolls along. The East Gaston pitching rotation will focus on four players. Returning pitchers Josh Benfield and Nash Jamison will form a

base of experience. Benfield and Jamison will have help in a pair of JV pitchers, Zach Adams and Jordan Helms that are ready to make things happen. "Helms and Adams are two JV aces that are moved up to varsity." Sellers added. The pitching rotation will form the nucleus of what should be a productive defense unit for EG. Coach Sellers beliefs that everyone on the team knows what they need to do to contribute. "We have a good defense club," Sellers said. "Everyone knows their roles.The pitchers need to play smart." The Warrior infield will be a combination of returning starters and newcomers. The infield as in other spots will also be manned by some of the pitchers when they are not on the mound. Sophomore Matthew Jonas will be taking the field as the Warriors shortstop. "We are counting on him to handle the middle of the infield," Sellers said. "Tyler Hannifin will be on 2nd base. Josh Benfiled will be on first. Zach Adams will be on 3rd." The Warrior outfield will be stocked with solid players capable of getting the ball back to the infield when batter place the ball near them. Newcomer Justin Gomez will join Nash Jamison and Kyle Pruitt in the outfield. The Warrior's offense will rely on a team approach to move batters and score runs. East Gaston isn't stocked with any sluggers. But that shouldn't hurt production. "We are not heavy hitters," Sellers said. "It will be team baseball. Working to hit behind runners to keep them moving." East Gaston will rely on smart hitting and doing what is needed to keep things going. "We need to get the ball in play to get runners to score off 3rd," Sellers said. "We don't want to leave runners on base.â€? As the season progresses the Warriors coaching staff will be able to see who is ready for more responsibility. Because of their youth the 2016 Warriors will need to focus on mistake free team baseball. Experience will come on the fly. If the Warriors embrace the team approach they should have a good season.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

South Point Red Raiders PLAYER

WEEK

OF THE

Walker Featherston BASEBALL

Belmontâ€™s Drug Store 403 East Catawba St. Belmont, NC (704) 829-9897 Your friendly hometown pharmacy

Need A Classified? Call Kathy Today!

704-739-7496

Mountain Island Raptors PLAYER

KALEB SETZER

OF THE

WEEK

Anna Winkler SOFTBALL

BASEBALL

Belmont Middle School eighth grader Jashawn Camp is a student leader making a difference in his community, and now he has a superstar on his team. Camp was surprised recentlyby a visit from Charlotte Hornets player Cody Zeller. Camp is the first winner of â€œCampbell & Cody,â€? a recognition program sponsored by Campbell & Associates where Zeller surprises young leaders in the community and speaks with them about achieving their goals. Camp was selected because of his leadership as a captain on his AAU basketball team and for his church volunteer work to help provide food for people who are homeless. Camp will be treated to a VIP experience at a Charlotte Hornets game and learn about the sports and entertainment industry through an internship experience with the Hornets. Gaston Schools photo ACIDITY ARABICA AROMA BAG BARISTA BATCH BEANS BEVERAGE BITTER BLEND BREW BUZZ CAFFEINE CAPPUCCINO COFFEE CREAMER DEMITASSE DRIP

ESPRESSO EXOTIC FLAVOR FRENCH PRESS FROTH ICED MELLOW MILK MOCHA MUG PERCOLATE POT REFILL ROASTER STIR SUGAR VARIETAL WARMTH

704-395-1239 www.allwoodinsurance.com

SUDOKU by MIA VONNE

)LOO LQ WKH EODQN VTXDUHV VR WKDW HDFK URZ HDFK FROXPQ DQG HDFK E\ EORFN FRQWDLQ DOO RI WKH GLJLWV WKUX XVLQJ ORJLF /DVW ,VVXHÂˇV 6ROXWLRQ

Thursday, March 10, 2016

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Banner-News Funny Paper BC

By MASTROIANNI & HART

15 MINUTES

By ROBERT DUCKETT

DOGS OF C-KENNEL

CHUCKLE BROS

by MICK & MASON MASTROIANNI

By BRIAN & RON BOYCHUK

AGAINST THE GRAIN

PERCENTERS

by BILL ABBOTT

by RON THERIEN

Page 19

Gaston County Schools ranks as the safest large district in state A report released last Thursday by the State Board of Education and N.C. Department of Public Instruction indicates that Gaston County Schools ranks as the safest large school district in North Carolina. Of the ten largest school districts in the state, Gaston County has the lowest school crime rate. Gaston’s rate for the 2014-2015 school year is 4.073, which is lower than the 2013-2014 rate of 4.723. Gaston’s rate of 4.073 is lower than the state rate of 6.89. The state saw an increase in its overall school crime rate, rising from 6.79 in 2013-2014 to 6.89 for 20142015. The rate is based on the number of acts of school crime per 1,000 students. Gaston County Schools continues to earn recognition as a safe school district. The school crime rate for Gaston County Schools has been significantly lower than the state rate for the past six years, and when compared to neighboring school districts, Gaston has the lowest rate. Superintendent of Schools W. Jeffrey Booker stated, “Year after year, we see the benefits of our comprehensive security plan and continued focus on school safety. Keeping our students and employees safe is a top priority because we know that for quality teaching and learning to take place, the school environment must be safe and secure.” Booker attributed Gaston’s low school crime rate to the district’s ongoing partnership with law enforcement, investment in security equipment and safety initiatives, and school employees always keeping safety in mind. “All of our school employees go beyond expectations every day to ensure safety,” said Booker. “Our investment in camera surveillance equipment, visitor check-in management system, buzz-in entrance technology, more school resource officers, and other important measures are working to keep our school campuses safe and secure. Most significant is our excellent partnership with law enforcement in Gaston County – we would not have an outstanding school safety record without the support and commitment from the Gaston County Police Department, sheriff’s office, city police departments, and other agencies.” The state’s 2014-2015 Consolidated Data Report

provides statistics about school crime and violence for the 2014-2015 academic year. It also includes information about suspensions and expulsions for public school districts and charter schools across the state and the high school dropout rate. The full report is available online at www.ncpublicschools.org. Suspensions and Expulsions- Gaston County Schools had 6,375 short-term suspensions in 2014-2015. The district had nine longterm suspensions, but no student expulsions. Over a six-year period, the number of short-term and long-term suspensions and student expulsions in Gaston County Schools is lower. Statewide, there was an increase in the number of short-term suspensions and expulsions for 2014-2015. High School Dropout Rate- Gaston County Schools’ dropout rate remains low, and it is better than the state average for the third consecutive year. Gaston’s dropout rate for the 2014-2015 school year is 2.02, which is lower than the state rate of 2.39. Additionally, Gaston County is one of five school districts in the state with the largest threeyear decrease in the dropout count (number of students who dropped out of school) for grades 9-13. The state calculates a high school dropout rate for each school district to reflect the number of students who dropped out of school during the 2014-2015 year. A dropout is defined as a student who attended any part or all of the 2014-2015 school year and did not return to school for the 2015-2016 year. The number of high school dropouts in Gaston County has decreased significantly from 450 in 20102011 to 204 in 2014-2015. Gaston County Schools has maintained a dropout rate that is lower than the state average for the past three years while the district’s graduation rate continues to increase. Gaston’s graduation rate is 86.3 percent, which is the highest ever for the school district.

Page 20

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, March 10, 2016

East Gaston vs East Lincoln softball game

East Gaston pitcher #6 Caitlyn Morgan winds up in last Friday’s game against East Lincoln. Photos by Bill Ward

The East Gaston Lady Warriors and East Lincoln Lady Mustangs clashed last Friday in a non-conference softball game. East Lincoln won 8-1. In this photo East Gaston shortstop #4 Ashlyn Presson tags East Lincoln’s #8 Emily Stolzenbach.

East Lincoln’s # 5 Caroline Golightly into 2nd safely as East Gaston shortstop #4 Ashlyn Presson grabs the ball.

East Lincoln’s second base player #2 Annika Gemberling scoops as East Gaston’s #7 Paige Bartlett runs past.

George Poston Horseshoe tournament March 19th Gaston County Parks & Recreation will host the George Poston Memorial Horseshoe Tournament at George Poston Park on Saturday, March 19, 2016 the tournament starts at 10am. The registration fee is $10 per person and registration for the tournament closes at 9:30am. To be eligible, participants must be a member of the North Carolina, South Carolina, or National Horseshoe Pitchers Association. Anyone interested in competing may join any of the three organizations on the day of the tournament. All ages and ability levels are welcome. Participants will be grouped according to ability levels. 70% of entry fees will be paid back as prizes. For more information on the George Poston Memorial, please contact Gaston County Parks & Recreation at 704-922-2163 or visit the County’s website at www.gastongov. com. Gaston County strives to make its programs, services, and activities accessible to all. If you will require an accommodation we request that you contact our office at least 5 days before the event.

Gaston Christian girls win softball opener The Gaston Christian High School Varsity girls softball team defeated Tri-County Christian School on March

2 hits, one double, one RBI; Kendal

2 with a score of 15-2 in five innings in their season opening game. Leading hitters were Lauren Adams, 4 hits, 2 doubles, and 2 RBIs; Ashlyn Freeman,

Hill, two hits, and Madison Ramsey,

Withers, 2 hits and 1 RBI; Mackenzie two hits. Anna Crenshaw was the winning pitcher with 2 strike outs.