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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

NEW LOCATION! Community Insurance / Joel Roberts

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Volume 80 • Iss Issue 16

Thursday, April 23, 2015

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

Mount Holly gets new fire chief

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Last week's Mount Holly city council meeting saw Ryan Baker sworn in as fire chief.

Baker had been serving as interim chief since September 2014.

Mayor Bryan Hough gave Baker the oath of office and afterward Baker's daughter Payton pinned his badge on “We are so proud to have you as our chief,” Hough said. “You have the support of the city. We love you and look forward to working with you.”

Baker remarked on his new post.

“I want to thank God first,” he said. “Also, my family, fellow firefighters, and the council.”

Baker has plenty of firefighting experience.

He began his fire service career in 1997 as a volunteer in Cornelius, NC. He was hired full time with the city of Mount Holly as a code enforcement officer/fire inspector in 2000. In 2005, he was promoted to captain and training officer. He left his full time position with Mount Holly in 2007 to become an assistant fire marshal with Mecklenburg County. He remained part time with Mount Holly and then returned in 2011 as the deputy fire chief over operations. In September of 2014 he was placed in the role of interim fire chief and remained in that role until March of 2015 when he accepted the job as fire chief.

“I am honored to have this position as only a few get the chance to hold,” Baker said. “When you are responsible for protecting the lives and property of over 14,000 people your job is never done. I will always give my best to the city and I appreciate all of the support from the city and city council.”

Mount Holly's new fire chief, Ryan Baker, is seen having his badge pinned on by daughter Payton while wife Courtney Baker is already looking to the future. and fellow firefighters look on.

Photo by Alan Hodge See FIRE CHIEF page 2

Sgt. Bunyan Price’s former comrades present sister with flag and photo Belmont

by Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Brenda Harris of Cherryville, one of Sgt. Bunyan Price's sisters, is seen receiving an envelope from John Markham (center) and Harry Kocopi, his former U.S. Army comrades, at his burial service May 11. The package contained a platoon flag and photo of a large stone with Price's name engraved on it.

Photo courtesy Harry Kocopi

By all accounts the April 11 military honors burial of Vietnam MIA Sgt. Bunyan Price Jr. in Belmont was a huge event, but something else happened in Greenwood Cemetery that day that was very meaningful to his family.

Among the mourners at the ceremony were two guys that had served in Price's U.S. Army unit in Vietnam – John Markham and Harry Kocopi. They had come to not only pay their respects, but to present one of Price's sisters, Brenda Harris of Cherryville, with a gift in his memory.

“We were honored to be present at the service and provide Sgt Price’s sister with a unit memento,” said Kocopi. “Our battalion was referred to as “The Dreadnaughts,” and the battalion 2/34 motto was “Fear God Dread Naught. The package we gave her contained a yellow and

black platoon flag and a photo of Price's name as it appears on a special stone.”

Harris, reached by phone recently, said she is also awaiting another memento of her brother's service to his country in the form of an MIA-POW ID bracelet, produced in the mid-to late '70s, on which her brother's name is inscribed.

“An Indiana family by the name of Jones got in touch with me,” Harris said. “She's going to send it to me through the mail and I should get sometime either this week or the next, she said.

Harris said the lady told her their family was military and when the bracelets came out, you could literally buy them everywhere.

“She said they bought theirs about 16 years ago and kept it.

Then, she said she somehow heard about my brother being See PRICE page 2

police chief appeals termination

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Belmont police chief Charles Franklin will remain on paid suspension pending the outcome of an appeal he has asked for relating to his imminent firing last Friday.

City manager Barry Webb had this to say.

“This morning (April 17), a meeting was conducted with Belmont Chief of Police Charlie Franklin in follow-up to the suspension notice given to him last Friday (April 10).

At this meeting, the Chief was presented with a notice of termination based on issues related to unsatisfactory See TERMINATION page 2

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FIRE CHIEF “We have two new trucks being delivered later this year,” he said. “The department worked very hard during the design process so that they are exactly what we need. The new trucks will be in service by the end of the year. The north fire station is currently in the design phase.

We should begin construction this year with a projected opening of late spring 2016.

It will be located across the street from Mountain Island Charter School. We will be hiring six firefighters to staff the north station. We have applied for the FEMA grant to fund the hiring of the staff for the new station. If we are awarded the grant, this will fully fund the positions for

PRICE

FROM page 1

two years. After that time the city would take over all funding for those positions. The staff will be ready to move into the station when it opens.

The north station will provide better fire and EMS protection to our citizens north of the Freightliner plant.”

There's more.

“We are in the beginning stages of starting a junior firefighter program,” Baker said.

“This will allow young individuals interested in the fire service to gain experience by participating in fire programs.

It's a great opportunity for them to become involved in their community and receive valuable training and experience.”

Baker is looking for vol-

unteers too.

“We would like to increase our volunteer roster,” he said “We are looking for people that want to give back to their community and make a difference in others lives.

If anyone is interested please stop by the headquarters station located at the corner of north Main Street (273) and Killian Avenue. If anyone has questions they than can contact the station at 704822-2927. I am excited for the future of our city and our department. We will be dedicated to the people we serve and will strive to give our very best. It is a privilege to work with such a great group Mount Holly mayor Bryan Hough is seen swearing in new fire chief Ryan Baker at last week's of firefighters at Mount Holly council meeting. Baker has been serving as interim chief for the past several months.

Photo by Alan Hodge Fire and Rescue.”

Free health fair in Stanley

FROM page 1

found and his name rang a bell with her, so she looked and found the bracelet with his name on it, got in touch with me, so she could send it to me,” Harris said.

Pat Forster, the president of the Vietnam Dreadnaughts and a platoon leader, arranged to have a large granite rock made many years ago and on that rock are the names of the 2/34 soldiers that were lost during the Vietnam conflict.

Sgt Price’s name is prominently chiseled into the granite along with others. On one side of the rock is the familiar phrase: “All gave some; some gave All.” The rock is on displayed in Pat’s hometown of San Juan Capistrano, CA. Harris and the rest of Price's family deeply appreciated the gesture from Markham and Kocopi on behalf of their unit.

“It was a real honor to meet them and get the flag and picture,” she said. “I put the items in a box I have with his medals in it. It is sitting in my room and is something to treasure.”

Kocopi recounted the role he, Markham, and Price played in Vietnam.

“We were an armored bat-

Thursday, April 23, 2015

talion comprised of 2-3 line tank companies (the number varied) and a headquarters line company,” he said. “John was a forward observer (calling in artillery fire) and I was a tank platoon leader (commanding a unit, or platoon, of five tanks). A tank company is comprised of 15 tanks with a few assorted armored support vehicles, to include the company commander. Sgt Price, from what we know, was assigned to Headquarters Company (HHC), which supported the battalion with mortars, reconnaissance, maintenance, supply and the like. Our battalion and specifically A Company, were ordered into Cambodia on May 1. I believe that was when we went in. Sgt. Price’s aircraft was shot down on the 2nd, so we were in country at the moment he went down, all unbeknownst to us at the time.

Kocopi and Markham returned home to Landrum, S.C. and Durham after the burial, but were touched by what they saw in Belmont.

“In the brief time John and I were there, we met some wonderful people from Belmont,” he said. “We appreciate the way the community

Spring into Good Health Fair is being expressed its gratitude toward sponsored

by Stress Free Home Care in StanSgt Price’s service and to his ley, on April 28, from 9 am until 12:30pm. family.”

The health fair will be held at the Stanley Pentecostal Holiness Church’s Family Life Center (Additional material by Mi- located at 113 East Parkwood Street. It is free chael E. Powell, the Cher- and open to the public, for anyone that would like to gain information about being healthy ryville Eagle) and providing care for a loved one of any age.

Some of the vendors that will be presSEND US ent include: CaroMont, Stanley Total Living Center, Advanced Home Care, Omni WellYOUR EVENTS & ness and many more informative vendors.

HAPPENINGS! The vendors are all supplying a door prize to Call 704/825-0580 be given out during the event to participants.

Light refreshments will be available durfor more ing the event. CaroMont’s mobile wellness information coach will also be available to perform mammograms, registration is recommended; please

TERMINATION FROM page 1

y$

uled for this proceeding. Copies of the pertinent materials will be provided to the Council members since they are now charged with making the final decision.

There are no other changes in the status of the department or any addition information on this issue to report at this time.”

Franklin was placed on suspension following review by Webb of a 150page investigation of the PD that was conducted over a six-month period by Huntersville-based U.S. ISS Agency.

Lt. Basil Marett will be acting as chief while Franklin's situation plays out.

performance and detrimental personal conduct. In response, he provided me with a notice of appeal as provided under the Charter of the City of Belmont.

Under the provisions of this part of the Charter, a department head who is provided a notice of termination by the City Manager may request a formal removal proceeding with the City Council, and this is the course that Chief Franklin has chosen. As also provided in the charter, he shall remain on paid suspension until such time that the Council holds this proceeding and makes a final decision on the termination action.

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The investigation and report that put Franklin in his current spot came about following exit interviews with several ex-police department employees and allegations of irregularities and the overall workplace atmosphere. According to Webb none of the allegations rose to the level of criminal conduct.

Webb says the report, which cost the city $50,000, will not be released since it contains personnel information. Over 60 police department employees ended up being interviewed for it.

Franklin was hired by the city in December 1994 and his current salary is $67,996.

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Several speakers are going to give presentations on topics ranging from Caregiver Stress Relief to Pancreatic Cancer Awareness.

Erin Argo with DiBella Chiropractic will also speak on back pain prevention. Come out and gain information for yourself, a parent, grandparent, or loved one. Also, the Stanley Police Department will be present collecting out of date medications to dispose of properly in the Operation Medicine Cabinet campaign.

SleepWell Diagnostics will be providing information on sleep disorders and diagnostic sleep testing as well as providing equipment maintenance instructions. If you need more information on this event, please contact Marilyn Michael at mmichaelstressfree@gmail. com or call 704-931-4997.

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 3

Old Belmont airport was childhood playground of local UFO hunter

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

These days, most people know 79-yearold Festus Hawkins of Belmont as one of the country's leading experts on the subject of UFOs. In fact, he's acquired reams of information on the subject including documents from the U.S. government. But in his earlier days, Hawkins was in the thick of the action with a different sort of aerial vehicle- light planes at the old Belmont airport.

Just after WWII several local pilots led

by Manson Arrowood built a dirt strip airport in Belmont. The runway was situated beside Wilkinson Blvd. near where Cato Trailer Park and Dairy Queen are currently located. The strip operated until the 1950s and Hawkins grew up in its shadow.

“My father R.W. Hawkins was a tail gunner on a B-17 in WWII and liked airplanes,” Festus said. “In 1947 when I was just a kid we moved from Hendersonville to Belmont right beside the airport.”

R.W. was a licensed pilot and often took Festus up with him.

“We would fly around Belmont and other places,” Hawkins said. “Dad knew the WWI pilot Elliot White Springs and we would fly down to his airstrip in Fort Mill.”

R.W.'s favorite aircraft was the Piper J3 Cub. “You could land a Cub anywhere,” said Festus.

Another famous local flier that Hawkins

knew from the airport was Haskell Deaton.

“Haskell was a daredevil,” Festus said.

“He flew under the Catawba River railroad trestle.”

According to Festus, the airport was a lively place.

'They would have airshows and drop little sacks of flour from the planes at a target,” he said. “They would also throw rolls of toilet paper out and try to cut it with a wingtip.”

Planes that were kept at the airport ranged from little Aircoupes and Cubs to an old Army Air Force trainer.

“They flew the trainer sometimes,” Festus said. “But one day the Air Force sent some men over and they took the wings off of it.”

Being a kid at the time, Festus could not pilot a plane, but did chores in exchange for rides.

“We would push the planes over to the house and wash them,” he said.

The airport had a mascot too.

“We had a fox terrier dog that knew daddy's plane,” said Festus. “It would sit and wait for it to land.”

These days, Festus still lives in the area where the airport was located.

“Most people don't even know it was there,” he said.

And those UFOs? Hawkins says he spotted one in Belmont just a couple of weeks ago.

“It was about thirty feet across,” he said. “It went north. It was burnin' wind!”

This photo, taken around 1948, shows R.W. Hawkins with a Piper Cub airplane at the Belmont Airport. His son, Festus, now 79-years-old, recalls the airport as a fun place to hang out.

Photo courtesy Festus Hawkins

Kids in Kitchen program planned The Junior League of Gaston County will feature it’s Kids in the Kitchen program at Discover You! Children’s Health Fair on Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The event is free to the public and will be held at Discover You!, 420 East Central Ave, Mount Holly.

The Kids in the Kitchen program is part of the Junior Leagues’ Kids in the Kitchen initiative, which is supported by The Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. and its member Leagues.

Its goal is to promote child health and wellness by empowering children and youth to make healthy lifestyle choices, therefore preventing obesity and its associated health risks.

Founded in 1959, the Junior League of Gaston County, or JLGC, is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable and is af-

filiated with the Association of Junior Leagues International.

This group of women strives to build strong financial and volunteer support for the health and well- being of women and children through program development and community partnerships.

For more information about becoming a member of the 2015-2016 provisional class, please contact the Junior League of Gaston County at jlgastoncounty@gmail.com.

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Opinions...

The Banner News / banner-news.com

“When

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Yours, Ours, Others

we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves.”

- Viktor E. Frankl

Letter to editor:

General Assembly Proposal Threatens Fragile Healthcare Ecosystem Legislation recently introduced in the NC General Assembly once again takes aim at North Carolina’s hospitals and health systems and threatens to undermine our community’s access to critical healthcare services. Healthcare is in a time of tremendous upheaval. The introduction of the Affordable Care Act has left hospitals like CaroMont Regional Medical Center and the patients we serve in limbo.

Dramatic federal cuts, continued State cuts to Medicaid, and increasing numbers of uninsured and underinsured patients coming to our emergency departments for care are forcing us to reevaluate budgets and staffing levels like never before.

We are responding by transforming the way we do business, focusing on quality improvement, patient outcomes and lowering costs to ensure we can continue to provide care to all.

Now is not the time to upend an already fragile healthcare ecosystem.

The issue before our lawmakers is Certificate of Need (CON). Certificate of Need laws give the state authority to plan for health services in every county in North Carolina.

When these laws were implemented in states across the country, they were designed to protect the market from being flooded with too many health services that only drive up utilization. That need to protect the market still exists today.

Opponents of CON claim that if we get rid of these protections, a free market will flourish making health care more competitive and cost effective. If healthcare were only about consumers who had time to contemplate all the options and then make a purchase, that might be true. Yet, the law being proposed doesn’t even come close to creating a level playing field for competition between providers in the market.

In 2014, there were 87,892 visits to the emergency department at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. Our hospital is uniquely equipped and staffed to provide this essential community service. And, unlike surgery centers owned by physicians, CaroMont Regional provides care to anyone who comes to us, regardless of their ability to pay. Of all

emergency visits at CaroMont Regional, 78.26% are from Medicaid, Medicare or self-pay patients. Because government-funded insurance doesn’t cover the costs of care, privately insured patients bear the primary burden to help support expensive hospital services like trauma care and care for those with behavioral health needs.

North Carolina’s Certificate of Need law prevents other providers from “cherry picking” profitable services that hospitals rely on to continue providing essential services in our communities. Providers who are motivated by profit are neither required nor equipped to care for unexpected emergencies, individuals with serious health complications, frail elderly patients or individuals in mental health crisis. Those patients don’t have the luxury of contemplating their healthcare purchasing options because they don’t have any. Your local hospital must fill the gap.

As a longtime hospital administrator, I am concerned about the dangerous perception that some lawmakers have begun to buy into that hospitals can sustain continued attacks and funding cuts. Unfortunately, while that perception has grown pervasive, it couldn’t be further from the truth.

It takes large sums to keep a comprehensive operation like CaroMont open for business to all who need us and the limited funds we do have on reserve play an important role in our solvency. Every day, there are reports of hospitals across the country shuttering services and even closing their doors.

Gaston County has a proud tradition of excellence in healthcare for all patients and I will do everything I can to fight for that legacy. I encourage our legislators to participate fully in this debate with an open mind and a focus on how our local healthcare ecosystem will be impacted. The health of our community is at stake.

Doug Luckett President & CEO CaroMont Health

SIDEWALK SURVEY Q: What do you think about a female US President?

JEREME BELL No problem, but not the one they keep talking about.

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LINDA BARRETT One is as good as the other.

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.

RED JOYE Nothing wrong with it if she is smart enough.

Alan Hodge - Editor

My opinion...

Food fantasy vs reality There is an eternal struggle within the human heart and mind. That is, the non-stop contest between fantasy and reality. Or between truth and deceit.

One arena typifies to an astonishing degree this duality and that is food.

Yes, food.

Here's what I mean.

Go grocery shopping. First of all, as you enter the cavernous and gleaming edifice to eats look at the cornucopia of items we have available. Folks who Alan Hodge live in places like the Amazon rain for- Banner-News Editor est do not have such a variety of vittles to pick from. Yes, they have 'nanners and fish, and yams, and monkeys to dine on, but not croutons, Salisbury steak, flash frozen Brussels sprouts, Boston crème pies and chicken nuggets. But the stuff that natives and other peoples in many other corners of the globe chow down on is in a “what you see is what you git” situation. They see it in its natural state up in a tree, or in the river. There is no subterfuge. What we in our area and most of America puts in our cake-holes is prepackaged and that's where the rub comes in.

The next time you buy food that's in a box or plastic bag you can't see through, take a hard look at the photo on the container. Observe how succulent the grub inside is supposed to be. Fix yer eyes on the glistening veggies, the plump fish sticks, the fluffy scrambled aigs and crisp bacon, the mountainous apple pie, the huge cookies chock full of nuts, etc. etc.

Now open the container up and see what's really inside.

Things that seem irresistible from the outside are too often a supreme disappointment on the inside. They are tiny, they are dried out, they are utterly unappetizing. The box or bag might taste better.

The same principle holds true when it comes to fast food stuff these days. Posters in the store window or on TV commercials show burgers so big they seem to need a wheelbarrow to get them to your car. On TV, the actors can barely get their lips over the bun. Of course they are not really biting into the burger you can tell by the fake chewing they do as they roll their eyes in recreational eating ecstasy.

But then there's the reality of what you get when you open the bag and look inside and there in the very cavernous sack you see an object purported to be a sandwich way down in its depths and you plunge your hand in and fish around and finally grab it and take it out of its wrapper and wonder how the pictured humongous item that cost five bucks is barely more than a few good bites in size.

This deceit is not a new thing. Think back when a burger was big. Picture it in your mind. Imagine how many inches across it was. Now, it bears the same name, but is a shrunken shadow of its former self unlike the midriff of its constant consumers. This downsizing has taken place not over a matter of months, but years. A clever ploy based on the hope that no one will notice.

Candy bars are likewise. Once a candy bar would fill your fist and your mouth and your stomach. They cost about a quarter. Now, a candy bar cost over a dollar and is about 2/3 the size they used to be.

I could go on and on about the situation I call “you don't get what you pay for” but it's probably to no avail. But mark my words, one day you will open a food package to find- nothing but a little pill that tastes like the picture on the box.

Bon appetit.

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alan.bannernews@gmail.com

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 5

Belmont and Cramerton team for Arbor Day

Join in for a fun afternoon as Belmont Abbey College’s Chorus and Instrumentalists Ensemble present the final concert of this season’s Arts at the Abbey series on Sunday May 3 at 3:00 pm in the Abbey Basilica. The program will include music in celebration of the Easter Season, spiritual and folksongs, a little jazz, music from Broadway and instrumental works. Abbey organist Karen Hite Jacob, directs and accompanies the chorus and vocal students. Sam Stowe is director of the instrumental ensemble for winds and strings. Admission is free. Donations are gladly accepted.

For additional information: 704-461-6012, karenjacob@bac.edu or www.belmontabbeycollege. edu.

Karen Jacob photo

Need A Classified?

Call Kathy Today! 704-739-7496

Mount Holly SpringFest 42nd Annual Schedule of Events

Mount Holly, NC

www.mounthollyspringfest.org

Monday, April 27 1:00 pm Shotgun Start

Tuesday, April 28 5:30 pm

Wenesday, April 29 9:00 am–10:30 pm

Thursday, April 30 6:30 pm

Friday, May 1 7:00 pm

Saturday, May 2 8:30 am

Golf Tournament, Green Meadows Golf Course Registration at 11:00 am with a 1:00 Shotgun start. $60 per person. Application can be found at www.mounthollyspringfest.org Any questions contact Green Meadows 704-827-9264

Senior Dinner, Mount Holly Municipal Complex This is a free dinner to Mount Holly Seniors. Limited to 300 Seniors, please call Cheri Love @ 704-951-0074 ext. 100 to reserve your seat. Join us for a great dinner and entertainment.

Preschool Play Day, Tuckaseege Center Children ages 4 & 5 years old can come have some fun.

They will do arts & crafts, story time, music time, and play with Sparky the fire dog. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

Please RSVP–Cheri Love @ 704-951-0074 ext. 100 Mount Holly Community Dinner & Awards Banquet Event will be held at the Mount Holly Municipal Complex. Man and Woman, Business, Entrepreneur, Volunteer and Civic Organization of the Year awards will be presented. $10 per person. For tickets contact David’s Detailing, Robert Black Insurance, Community One Bank or Charlie’s Drug. Any questions contact David Moore 980-522-6903

Movie in the Park, Tuckaseege Park Pre movie activities start at 7:00 pm and movie starts at dusk. There will be food and drink vendors. Join us for the fun, then sit back, relax and watch Big Hero 6!

5k Run / 1Mi. Fun Run - Walk, Ida Rankin Elem. School Contact Brooke Lopez @ 704-827-5897 or email mounthollyspringfest@hotmail.com. Applications can be found at www.mountholly5k.com or www.mounthollyspringfest.org.

Saturday, May 2

Mount Holly Springfest, Downtown MountHolly

10:00 am–4:00 pm

Bring your family & friends–over 125 different vendors, lots of food, great music, kids zone and a car show. Car show & vendor applications go to www.mounthollyspringfest.org. For additional information 704-951-0074 ext. 100 NO PETS ALLOWED due to heavy pedestrian traffic. Thank you.

The City of Belmont and Town of Cramerton will host their 8th annual Earth Day Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25th from 11 am – 2 pm in Stowe Park, Belmont.

The celebration recognizes National Arbor Day (which is typically held the last Friday in April) for the purposes of celebrating and educating people on the importance of trees to the world and our community. It also recognizes Earth Day (which is celebrated on April 22) for the purpose of demonstrating support for environmental protection.

This year’s celebration is focused on environmental sustainability, urban forestry, active and healthy lifestyle and green energy.

The event will have music

by Caleb Davis (http://www. calebdavismusic.com/ , vendors, kids arts and crafts activities, educations clinics on sustainable gardening and recycling, tree plantings, a fashion show by GiGi’s Boutique, and a Tree City USA award ceremony for Belmont and Cramerton.

Organizers will also award the winners of the children’s art poster contest. The winning posters have been featured in our event posters placed throughout Town.

The Winners are: North Belmont Elementary: 1st place – Lauryn Nelson; 2nd placeHailey Royall; 3rd Hanson Lopez. New Hope Elementary School: 1st place – Katie Fangman; 2nd place- Kendall Martin; 3rd Jack Fangman.

Belmont Central: 1st- Abby Gale King & Reagan Hollifield; 2nd place- Hatsue McQuay; 3rd Anna Huffstickler.

South Point High School- 1st Megan Lynch.

Banner-News Police Report April 14: Michael Wayne Upton, assault with deadly weapon intent to kill inflict serious injury, assault on female, resist, delay, obstruct, communicate threats, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, 20 Alice Ave. April 16: William Edward Waldrop, simple marijuana, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 6813 Wilkinson Blvd.

April 17: Bruce Alexander Sawyer, assault on female, resist delay obstruct, arrested by Officer B. Pickert, 201 Ross Court.

April 17: Alexis Drew Letcher, larceny, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 701 Hawley Ave. April 18: Ahmad Talat Asmar, contempt of court, perjury, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 6894 Wilkinson Blvd.

April 19: Anna Michelle Weathers, child neglect non assaultive, DWLR, arrested by Officer A. Anderson, 515 Park St.

Man beaten with brick in Belmont A Gastonia man has been arrested and will be charged with beating a man with a brick and leading Belmont Police on a K9 pursuit.

According to police, the events leading to the arrest began around 11:28AM when officers were dispatched to Park St. to investigate a hit and run. Officers were told that the driver of a white or light colored Infiniti had hit a Ford pickup and fled down Browntown Rd. Belmont PD issued a Be On the Look Out (BOLO) alert in an attempt to find the vehicle.

At 4:18PM Belmont officers were dispatched to Dales Boat Landing at 7330 Wilkinson Blvd in reference to an assault.

Upon arrival at the boat landing officers discovered a person that had been assaulted.

The victim had been punched, kicked and struck in the head multiple times with a brick.

Officers were informed at the scene that the suspect, a white male fled the scene with a white female in a white Infiniti.

The vehicle description matched that of the car involved in the hit and run earlier in the day. Officers were told that the female subject may have been kidnapped.

Witnesses on the scene stated to police that the suspect may have been injured as people

MICHAEL WAYNE UPTON tried to prevent him from assaulting the victim.

While officers cared for the victim a search was set up to find the suspect. It was soon determined that the alleged kidnap victim had in fact not been kidnapped.

Officers were soon able to develop information indicating that the person involved in the assault was Michael Wayne Upton, 47 of 611 Tryon Place Gastonia. He was placed in Gaston County Jail under $100,000 bond and charged with communicating threats, assault on a female, resist public officer, and assault with deadly weapon with intent to kill inflict serious injury.

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Searching for a congregation

Banner-News Obituaries Rose Marie Treece Barnes Belmont- Rose Marie Treece Barnes, 69, passed away on Monday April 13, 2015. She was born in Gaston County, daughter of the late Herman and Betty McGinnis Treece. She was preceded in death by a sister Dolly Haley.

She battled MS for over 30 years.

She is survived by her husband William C. “Bud” Barnes Jr.; two children Darlene Beasley and husband Kenneth of Mount Holly and Randy Barnes of Cornelius; four brothers Tommy, David, Gary and Ebby Treece and two sisters Mary Jean Fields and Deniece Pope; three grandchildren Jennifer, Josh and Julie and two great grandchildren Malachi and Eva. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Barnes was held 7:00pm Thursday April 16, 2015 at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home with Reverend Vernon Cope officiating. The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

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

Robert Scott Baumgardner Belmont- Robert Scott Baumgardner, 50, of 1800 South P o i n t Road, passed away on Sunday April 12, 2015. He was born in Gaston County.

He is survived by his wife Leighanne Gray Baumgardner. His parents Mark and Doris Nolen Baumgardner of Belmont; three children Cody Baumgardner of Belmont, Taylor Baumgardner of Mount Holly, and Bronson Baumgardner of Belmont; six step children Jessica, Katie, Nikki, Hailey, Cassie and Abbey Gray all of Belmont; five grandchildren Daniel Baumgardner of Concord, Nolan Baumgardner of Mount Holly, Lexie and Nathan Gray both of Belmont and Leland Ellis of Belmont; one sister Charity St. John and husband Scott of Charlotte; two brothers Roger Baumgardner and wife Pam of Stanley and Chris Baumgardner and wife Kelly of Gastonia.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Baumgardner was held 2:00pm Thursday April 16, 2015 at the Alexander Memorial Baptist Church in Belmont with Reverend Jerry Pennington officiating. Burial followed at Greenwood Cemetery in Belmont. The fam-

Thursday, April 23, 2015

ily received friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials contributions to defray funeral expenses may be made to Woodlawn Funeral Home, PO Box 445, Mount Holly, NC 28120.

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

Mrs. Emma Hyde Powers Belmont- Mrs. Emma Hyde Powers, 84 passed away peacef u l l y April 18, 2015 at Meadow o o d Nursing Care Center, Gastonia.

She was born in Swain County, NC on November 3, 1930 to the late Ned D. and Margie Hyatt Hyde.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, James E. Powers, her sisters, Eliza Hyde Woods, Lexie Hyde Lee and Ida Hyde Shuler; brothers Hubert Hyde and Edd E. Hyde.

She was a loving mother and sister, and was a good homemaker.

Survivors include her loving son, Terry Joe Moore of Belmont; her brothers, Dillard “Don” Hyde and wife Nancy;

Several years ago, in a faraway town, a member of our local congregation approached me to say she was leaving the church. Her disappointment was not in my preaching, or disagreement with committee decisions.

She said, “You smile too much.” Well, I can think of worse criticism other than a smile. There are many reasons people leave their place of worship. Sometimes it leaves a great heartache among the congregation. Other times I like to call them blessed departures. We cannot hinder individuals and their decision, but I would like for us to consider what Rev. Angela Pleasants we should look for in a place of worship. First United We are adopted children of God not into Methodist Church, a denomination, but the body of Christ. Mount Holly “He predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will.”

Ephesians 1:5 ESV. Throughout my years of ministry, I have experienced these reasons for people leaving the church. They left due to lack of programs, sermons too long or too short, lack of leadership or an offense. These are valid reasons, but they should not be the primary things we look for in a church.

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” II Peter 3:18 ESV. The primary question you should ask yourself before joining a congregation, “Does this congregation glorify Jesus Christ?” To glorify Jesus means to give him honor and dignity. We should look for a congregation rooted in living out God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, faith, gentleness, kindness and love. Sometimes people leave because they have shallow roots. Once we join a congregation, we must become rooted in the teaching of scriptures and life of the congregation. Local churches are our mission post where In Memory we come to be equipped and sent forth into the mission field, Those we Love remain with us, the world in which we live. If we are not equipped, we fail to for Love itself lives on. mature as disciples. As a result, we are immature and swayed Cherished memories by every wind and doctrine. We begin to look for the church to never fade, because a loved one is gone. serve us rather than going forth to serve the kingdom of God. Those we Love can never be, Before you begin your search remember to look for a congremore than a thought apart. gation that honors the Lord. Once you find that congregation For as long as there plant yourself and allow your roots to mature that you may bear is a memory, fruit for the kingdom of God. they’ll live on in our heart.

"If you do not act wisely; you exhaust yourself in senseless ~Author Unknown work." `St. Bernadette of Lourds"

and Ted Hyde both of Belmont, Dennis D. Hyde of Virginia Beach; sisters Betty Hyde Brown of Belmont; and a number of wonderful nieces and nephews Funeral service was Tuesday, April 21st at 11:30 am at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home with Reverend Jeremy Hyde officiating.

The family received friends from 10:00 until 11:30 am prior to the service at the funeral home Interment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Belmont with the releasing of the doves Pallbearers were Kent Hyde, Lee Hyde, Jamie Hyde, Lane Hyde, Harold Woods, Tyler Brown, Charles “Newt” Hicks, Kenneth Woods, Steve Stamper and David Stamper Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia 704 864-5144 is serving the Family.

Fellowship & Faith

East Belmont Church of God

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Point Baptist Church 124 Horsley Ave.

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

704-825-9516

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Employees of

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

320 East Catawba Street Belmont • NC

Containers/Trailers Sales & Storage Rental

704-867-2317

VICTORY CHEVROLET 717 Rhyne Rd Charlotte • NC

877-505-1204

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 7

Friends of the Gaston County Keep Belmont Public Library Annual Book Sale Beautiful Yards of Month For April

Open to the public, free admission, huge selection.

The Friends of the Gaston County Public Library Annual Book Sale will begin Wednesday, April 22, 2015 and end Saturday, April 25, 2015. All book sale proceeds are dedicated to providing equipment, furnishings, resources, and programming for Gaston County Public Library patrons.

This year’s inventory includes the following items: children’s books, collectible books, fiction books, nonfiction books, hardback books, paperback books, reference sets, magazines, videos, DVDs, recordings and more. Prices range from $.25 to $2.00 on all regular items. Collectible items are priced according to current value.

On April 22, 24 and 25, the sale will be open from 9 am until 6 pm, and on April 23, from 9 am until 9 pm. Cash and debit/credit cards are acceptable forms of payment. Attendees are encouraged to bring bags and/or boxes to carry their pur- Each month KBB normally awards 4 residence yards (only have chases. Cloth carrying bags will also be available for purchase 3 this month) and 1 business yard. Nominations can be made by the lst of each month by calling Keep Belmont Beautiful at for $3.00.

704-825-8587 giving the address along with name and phone Visit GastonLibrary.org to find Gaston County Public Li- number of person making the nomination. Judging will be brary’s latest events and opportunities. Follow Gaston County done with awards made by the 15th of each month. This Yard Public Library and its branches on Instagram and Twitter @ of Month program runs April through June. gascopublib and "Like" its page on Facebook at Facebook. com/gastonlibrary.

Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.

—Psalm 145:3-4

IT'S TIME TO PLAY THE Susan Cromlish 12 W. Woodrow Avenue

LOTTERY

200

Carol Abernathy 6 Park Street

$

JACKPOT

Charlie and Genise Harper 15 Cedar Street

PICK YOUR FAVORITE 3 NUMBERS The numbers for last week's lottery were drawn by Poochie Dotson at Surprise Me in downtown Belmont. The winning numbers were 4, 22 and 25 . No ballot with the correct three numbers drawn was received. The jackpot will increase to $200. Make sure you have your entry in by the deadline at 9am on Monday.

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!

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.

LOTTERY RULES 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.

Catawba Antique Mall 406 Catawba Street

WE WELCOME YOUR

COMMENTS Send your Letter to the Editor to:

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

The Banner News PO BOX 589 • Belmont NC 28012

email: alan.banner.news@gmail.com *Letters to the Editor must be signed and include address and phone number. Letters are limited to 500 words or less and are subject to Editorial review. Thank you letters are required to be placed as paid personal notes.

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Banner-News Funny Paper BC

The Tuesday Afternoon Book Club’s recent meeting was hosted

by Beth Geddis (right) and members such as Edna Walker (left) shared stories about how their love of reading began at an early age.

Photo by Gearl Dean Page

DAILY DOSE

By MASTROIANNI AND HART

By JOHNNY HAWKINS

COUNTRY CHUCKLES

By JOHNNY HAWKINS

Book Club meets Dick and Jane The Tuesday Afternoon Book Club met at First Presbyterian church parlor on April 14, with Beth Geddis as hostess.

As the members arrived, Beth served a delightful dessert and coffee. Beth introduced her program by saying that as a relatively new member, she would like to learn more about the members; their reading habits, what first got them interested in reading, what kind of books they enjoy and some of their favorite books. It was interesting to note the similarity in how the members began to enjoy reading: being read to by their mothers, listening to stories as teachers in the early years read to the class, beginning to read comic books, and reading the newspapers. Several members mentioned the source of their books when they were children as being the bookmobile. It came regularly to different parts of the county in the summer months. Members enjoy a variety of books. Fiction was mentioned as favored by several, but not to the exclusion of historical fiction, non-fiction, biography, history, etc. Favorite books in their childhood years included the Dick and Jane series, The Secret Garden, Nancy Drew books, and My Friend Flicka. In later years some of the favorites mentioned were Tale of Two Cities, Pride and Prejudice, To Kill a Mockingbird, Tuscan Rose, The Water is Wide, and The Red October. Several members mentioned liking authors from the south, and especially, North Carolina writers. The comment heard most was, “I like being in this book club”.

"I'll take one with coveralls."

POKEWEED

By DREW POCZA

Strawberry season is here

Despite a late cold snap, local strawberry growers are expecting a strong season that will last until the first part of June.

“The winter was challenging, but local growers prevailed by AGAINST THE GRAIN using a combination of row covers and irrigation to preserve the crop with minimal loss,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

Growers in the southeastern part of the state have already started picking. Consumers in the Piedmont can expect to find berries by early May. And those in Western North Carolina should see berries from the first of May through the first half of June. Berries should be in good s u p p l y WHICH TWO ARE THE SAME across the state by Mother’s Day, May 10.

Several special events are planned to celebrate the season, including the N.C. Strawberry Festival in Chadbourn April 29May 2. The annual celebration features a parade, scholarship pageant, live music and strawberry quality contests.

Strawberry Day events also will be held May 14 at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh, May 15 at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market in Charlotte, May 22 at the Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market in Colfax and May 29 at the Western N.C. Farmers Market in Asheville. The events will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and include free samples of strawberry ice cream, strawberry recipe brochures, an appearance by Suzy Strawberry and plenty of fresh, local strawberries for purchase.

The Raleigh and Colfax events also will have a strawberry recipe contest with cash prizes.

North Carolina is the nation’s fourth-largest producer of strawberries and has the country’s largest fresh market for strawberries. Consumers can find local strawberries at roadside stands, farmers markets, area grocery stores and pick-your-own farms across the state.

To find locations near you, go to www.ncfarmfresh.com or www.ncstrawberry.com.

By RON THERIEN

By RON WHEELER

Thursday, April 23, 2015

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Page 9

Torrential rains on Sunday had the South Fork River in Cramerton over its banks. These photos show the flooding near downtown and at Riverside Park.

Photos by Alan Hodge

House of Mercy’s Walk for AIDS Raises $40,542

Beta Club members from South Point High School led the Walk for AIDS by carrying the House of Mercy banner.

Marjorie Storch photo On Saturday, April 18th over 275 local citizens gathered for House of Mercy’s 22nd Annual Walk for AIDS in Belmont, NC. The 3-mile walk through historic downtown Belmont raised AIDS awareness and funds to benefit House of Mercy – a nonprofit residence providing a home and nursing care for lowincome persons living with AIDS. The Sisters of Mercy founded this AIDS ministry 24 years ago to address the growing AIDS epidemic and need for compassion and care. Walk participants raised $40,542 from this event to help care for residents at House of Mercy.

House of Mercy President Stan Patterson welcomed participants at 10 am along with House of Mercy Board Chair Maggie Baucom and Sister of Mercy Jill Katherine Weber.

Stan and Maggie expressed appreciation for the generosity of the community in supporting this AIDS ministry. Sister Weber noted that the Sisters of Mercy was founded by Catherine McAuley, who used her inherited wealth in Ireland to care for the sick and the poor. A picnic reception with music and dancing followed the

walk on the House of Mercy grounds. Music was donated by DJ Buddy Love.

Stan Patterson announced that funds raised on the day of the walk set a new record for House of Mercy. Top fundraisers were: 1st Place Team - Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church; 2nd Place Team - South Charlotte Associates of the Sisters of Mercy; 3rd Place Team – Team Maggie (Baucom); 1st Place Individual - Scott Cloninger; 2nd Place Individuals – Keith & Tobey Lowe. Award for Best Banner went to team: Together We Stand.

2015 Walk for AIDS sponsors were Sisters of Mercy of the Americas (South Central Community), St. Gabriel Catholic Church, St. Matthew Catholic Church, Family/In Memory of Doug Newton, Gilead Science, CaroMont Health, ATCOM Business Telecom Solutions, RK T-Shirts, WSGE 91.7 fm radio, AbbVie, Cherry Bekaert LLP, St. Peter Catholic Church and Toby Outdooor.

Visit www.thehouseofmercy.org for a photo tour, video and to donate online.

Mount Holly Springfest Kidsfest When: Wednesday, April 29, 2015 Where: Tuckaseege Community Center Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Ages – 4 & 5 year olds We will have a variety of activities for the children: Story Time – With The Mount Holly Library Arts Time – Helpers will work with children to do art projects Music Time – Playing & dancing for the children Mount Holly Police Department and “McGruff ” the detective dog along with Mount Holly Fire Department and “Sparky” the Fire Dog will be there Featuring a Magic Show.

Snack Time – a special snack and juice will be provided If you have any questions, please feel free to contact: Cheri Love 704-951-0074 ext. 100

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

I’ve got a Taylor Swift song “Frozen” in my head

The only sport I was ever good at was white water canoeing. No, I didn’t say white water rafting; white water canoeing.

I was old school. I used aluminum canoes, not the fiberglass ones they have today. There were two of us in the canoe, the bow man who supplied the power and the person in back (me) who steered the canoe. If the person in front stopped paddling in the middle of a Tony Marciano set of rapids, the canoe would turn sideways and “swamp”. Many a stern man has had to holler at the bow man to “keep paddling” or we are both going swimming.

That isn’t my story.

In May, the Delaware River runs high and fast due to the melting of winter snow. It was a great time to go white water rafting. My story is in August. All the winter snow is gone.

The river is running low. There is just enough water to float your canoe down the river. It’s not exciting; it’s boring. That’s when I got into trouble.

My cousin was in the front and I was in the back. I saw one small wave of water. Would this be our only “fun” ride that day? While everyone traveled down the right side of the river, Last week's meeting of the Mount Holly city council saw the introduction of several new employees. New folks included: Gil I went left. What looked like a wall of water was really a big Aguirre parks and rec; Julie Rush-PD telecommunicate; Kevin Washly-streets; Jerry Searcy streets; Justin Wilmoth-streets; rock. The rock caught the right side of our canoe. We tried to Jeffrey Rathco-streets; Erica Noblett-parks; Conner Sisk-parks; Robert Ballou-parks. push off from the rock but tilted the canoe until the side of it Photo by Alan Hodge was below the water. The water was moving fast enough so it wrapped the canoe around the rock. It wasn’t a pretty sight.

It all happened because the river was running low and there were no rapids to ride. Had I let go of my expectations and just enjoyed the day with friends and family, the outcome would have been different.

We hold onto things that pull us down instead of lifting us up. Last year Taylor Swift came out with a song called “Shake City Business News as one of the 40 most influThe Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation has it Off”. Let it go. Move beyond that resentment. hired Emilee Syrewicze to serve as its new Exential people under 40 in Northwest Michigan.

This past Christmas, the biggest toy was from the movie ecutive Director. Emilee began work on April “I have a passion for environmental conser“Frozen”. The woman who wrote the song “Let it Go” had to 15. Rick Gaskins, the long time Executive Divation issues and I am excited about working apologize because every kid was singing the song. Maybe she rector for the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation for an organization that is on the leading edge shouldn’t apologize. Kids let go of things where adults hold will be leaving the organization in June. of so many environmental issues,” said Emilee onto grudges and resentments. We are better at being right than Emilee has a degree in environmental law Syrewicze. “Many people probably do not realbeing happy. We will sacrifice relationships to prove our point. from Vermont Law School and currently serves In the process, we lose valuable time with those we love. ize that the Catawba Wateree River basin has as the Executive Director of a non profit in TraWhen we don’t “let it go”, it’s similar to another occurrence verse City, Michigan. She attended Alma Colbecome the poster child for many issues such of canoeing - getting stuck in an “eddy”. On the river, there will lege and received her BA in political science. as coal ash, storm water pollution, water shortEmilee Syrewicze be rocks that stick out of the water. The water falling behind During her time at Alma, Emilee concentrated ages, sprawl, and water planning.” the rock creates a circle. If you ever got into one, it becomes on chemistry and environmental policy, spending a spring Gaskins began doing volunteer work for the Catawba difficult to get out of it. The water doesn’t go anywhere else; it term in China writing a thesis on Chinese water policy and swirls in a circle behind the rock. If that happens, you get stuck development. She then attended Vermont Law School and Riverkeeper Foundation shortly after it was founded in 1998 and has served the organization in a variety of capacities inthere and you can’t get down river. received her JD in with a focus on nonprofit and environcluding attorney, Board Chair, Catawba Riverkeeper, and How do we “Let it Go”? I like these words from Mother mental law/policy.

Teresa: Working at the Center for Environmental Law and Pol- Executive Director. During that time, CRF was successful People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive icy in Spokane, Washington, fostered her interest in non- in a wide range of initiatives including establishing a sumthem anyway. profit administration and policy. Currently, Emilee is the mer youth kayaking program, settlement of a proposed inIf you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Executive Director of the Northwest Michigan Supportive terbasin water transfer in way that created a model for water Be kind anyway.

Housing (NMSH) in Traverse City MI, an organization that conservation, litigation victories that resulted changes that If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway. provides permanent supportive housing to homeless indi- reduced pollution from a variety of sources.

If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy any- viduals and families with severe mental illness in Northwest CRF will be having an event to celebrate Emilee’s arway.

Michigan and has one of the highest success rates in the rival and thank Rick for his service from 5 The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good United States. She currently sits as Vice President of the p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 16, at the UNCC Center City anyway.

Community Economic Development Association of MichiGive the world the best you have and it may never be enough. gan (CEDAM) in Lansing, Chair of the Greater Grand Tra- Campus. The public is invited. Information about obtaining tickets for the event is available on the Give your best anyway. verse Continuum of Care, board trustee of the Torch Lake For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was Conservation Center, and is active in the Traverse City Ro- Catawba Riverkeeper website never between you and them anyway. tary Club. In 2014, Emilee was recognized by the Traverse (www.catawbariverkeeper.org).

Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation Hires New Executive Director

Healthy eating habits for healthy kids Belmont High 50th

By Amy Wadsworth - Public Information Coordinator - Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties publicinfo@pfclg.com

Your food and physical activity choices each day can affect your health. To maintain a healthy weight consume fewer calories and get in daily exercise.

Christine Rosinski, Child Care Health Consultant with Gaston County Health Department said that healthy eating starts early.

Rosinski works to improve the health, safety and nutrition of children ages 0 to 5 years old attending licensed child care centers and family child care homes.

“A child’s brain develops rapidly in the first few years of life,” Rosinski said. “Children also begin to form eating and exercise habits during this time.

It is crucial that children develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.”

Here are some healthy eating tips: Make at least half your grains whole grains; Vary your veggies; Focus on fruit; Get in calcium rich foods; Eat lean

protein; Limit consumption of sugar sweetened beverages. Drink water instead; Prepare meals at home. Children can be involved in cooking and menu planning.

Looking to get in more exercise? It’s easy-plan for at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Choose activities that you enjoy and can do on a regular basis. Fit activity into a daily routine such as taking a brisk 10 minute walk to and from the parking lot. Keep it interesting by joining an exercise class and do something different on alternate days.

Other ideas: Join a walking group. Find a partner for support; Walk the dog; Take a nature walk; Plant a flower garden; Wash your car and clean the house; Try finding weekend activities with the family that include physical activity;Limit television time to no more than 1 to 2 hours a day.

Want to learn more about the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties?

The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties is your local Smart Start agency. You can reach us at 704-922-0900 or visit us online at www.pfclg.com. Our vision is a community where young children will reach their health and educational potential.

Want to reach the Gaston County Child Care Health Consultant? The program is funded through the Partnership for Children. You can reach Christine Rosinski at, 704-862-6116 or visit their office at the Health Department, 991 W. Hudson Blvd., Gastonia.

Connect with us:www.pfclg.com http://www. facebook.com/pfclg Flickr, www.flickr.com/pfclg Twitter: Ready4School

reunion set

The Belmont High School Class of 1965 reunion is set and will be a two day event - Sept. 18th and 19th, 2015. More details to follow as dates approach.

Need A Classified?

Call Kathy Today!

704-739-7496

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 11

Banner-News School Happenings

South Point DECA participates in conference

Gaston Christian students spend spring break in Honduras During spring break 15 GCS High School students and 6 parents traveled to Honduras with Louder Than Words Ministries to serve among the Lenca people. These students and adults participated in a variety of ministries in and around the village of Las Mesas, Intibucá, Honduras. They piled in the local school, slept on the floor and used less than ideal bathroom facilities.

During the week, the mission team conducted a daily VBS program, hiked the local mountains evangelizing door-to-door, participated in home building and reconstruction, and held a free dental clinic each day. At the end of the week these missionaries had the privilege of blessing the children of Casa de Esperanza with over $1000 worth of food. This food will help feed these orphaned children for over a month. The funds for the food were provided from Spirit Week activities, the Beta Club, and the sale of chicken pot pies.

Gaston Christian School photo

Seven members of the South Point High School DECA chapter recently participated in the NC DECA Career Development Conference in Greensboro. The South Point Chapter received the Chapter of Distinction award for its program of work and membership increase. The chapter at South Point, which is advised

by Rhonda Van Pelt, has 85 members. The following students were recognized and scored proficiency in their presentation areas: Sanval Ali and Sean Chaudhry: Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan, Restaurant and Food Service Management, Automotive Services Marketing Series; Lauren Andrews: Entrepreneurship Participating Event, Human Resource Management Series; Madison Canterberry: Apparel and Accessories Marketing series; Jessica Helton: Applied Marketing Math, Principals of Hospitality and Tourism;Vageli Mageras: Principles of Business Management and Administration. Mageras also participated in Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan and Bilal Jaliawala participated in the Apparel and Accessories Marketing Series.

Gaston Schools photo

A REAL ESTATE MOMENT …. With Steve Duncan I am thinking about remodeling my home to sell …

What should I do? How much should I do?

Will this make any difference?

• Is work needed to bring the property up to expectations and value? There are times when homeowners had no reason to update their home or when there has been a tenant and no need for improvements. These homes often will need updates to compete with similar homes in the community.

Without any changes or improvements, it will have to sell at a discount. These improvements may help the property regain lost value to those in the same neighborhood or location.

• Is the work necessary to attract a buyer? Exterior and interior improvements don’t necessarily regain or add value but more often help a home compete with others on the market. These may be necessary to attract a ready, willing and able buyer. Making the home “Pop” or stand out against the competition can be simple or complex depending on the current condition of the home and the market.

• What work is necessary? How much work is too much? Some work may be necessary to restore lost value or just to get the attention of the buyers shopping in the market. Yet, other things are just too much and will never recoup value and will not necessarily determine if a buyer will want to see your home or encourage them to make an offer. These are projects that are costly and do not have any positive impact on the sale of your home. These remodel projects often bring the following comment … “Heck, if I do that I might as well stay here!”

Based on any number of websites and publications, in the best cases, improvements may bring back 80 cents to 85 cents on the dollar, in no circumstances is there ever a promise of bringing back a dollar in value for a dollar spent. Therefore, it is best to be informed before signing the construction contract.

Be careful and be informed. Review options for creating the most inviting home at the highest potential price. Then and only then, are you ready to make your decisions on what to spend, where to spend and how much to spend. Careful thought and consideration with good advice from a professional realtor is a must before hiring a contractor to tear down that wall.

More about Steve Duncan After graduation from South Point High School, Steve earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Appalachian State University. He has been involved in a multitude of community activities, serving on various Boards and Commissions and working with community issues.

When he is not working with real estate clients or volunteering, he is on his bike, (the kind you pedal) riding and racing across the southeast. A top performer for more than two decades, Steve has the experience and knowledge to help you achieve your goals whether selling or buying property.

The Gaston Christian school Junior class visited the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte on Thursday, March 26 where they enjoyed looking at exhibits connected with the life of the evangelist.

Gaston Christian School photo

Hood Memorial BBQ sale Hood Memorial AME Zion Church, 215 Sacco St., Belmont, will have bbq fundraiser May 15 from 11am-7pm in the Fellowship Hall. Plates are $9 each and have ½ chicken,

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 12

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Students attend SAVE summit

The Highland School of Technology Students Against Violence Everywhere Club recently attended the National SAVE Summit in Raleigh. Haley Abernathy, Highland junior, is president of the National Youth Advisory Board for SAVE. Dr. Ami Parker is the club advisor. Students who attended the event are: Haley Best, Dominique Bradley, Genesis Dingle, Savannah Duncan, David Hamilton, Laura Medina-Hernandez, Brandon Moore, Miriam Okonkwo, Cameron Prince and Sidney Roberts.

Gaston Schools photo

The Battle of the Books champions for Gaston County and Southwest Region were from Belmont Middle School. Team members included Savannah Allman, Abi Barbu, Christopher Bumgardner, Kathryn Cupp, Sophia DeMark, Grayson Dunbar, Ethan Goodwin, Grace Goodwin, Kevin Li, Grace Nehring, Taylor O’Hare and Priyanj Patel. Coaches: Linda Cathcart and Angie Alexander.

Gaston Schools photo

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.

Willis graduates Wingate Charli Karissa Wills, South Point class of 2011, graduated from Wingate University in December 2014 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Services. She will participate in the commencement ceremony held on Wingate’s campus on May 16, 2015.

She is currently employed as a lateral entry Special Education teacher at Holy Angels, Inc. while she pursues her Adapted Curriculum teaching license.

Randy Wills photo

Bill Hodge Memorial Run is May 1st The 2015 Bill Hodge Memorial 5K/Fun Walk will take place Friday, May 1 on the campus of Belmont Abbey College.

The race/walk will begin at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Haid Auditorium.

Registration is the day of the race, and a suggested donation is $5, which will go to the Tunnel to Towers/Wounded Warrior Project.

Bill Hodge was Belmont Abbey’s first men’s and women’s track and field coach and died hours after coaching the Crusaders men’s and women’s cross country teams at the Conference Carolinas Championships in 2010.

Need A Classified?

Call Kathy Today!

704-739-7496

Jackson Lee, GCS Spelling Bee winner, competed in the Gaston County Spelling Bee held March 25 at Hunter Huss High School. For several weeks he diligently prepared for the spelling bee and could be seen between classes studying the word lists. His persistence was rewarded with a 5th place finish in the county spelling bee.

Gaston Christian School photo

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 13

Banner-News Sports

South Point blankets East Gaston 6-0 Gaston Christian notches two wins

By John Wilson

john.bannernews@gmail.com

Earlier in the year the South Point Red Raiders lost in an odd game to East Gaston. Going into the bottom of the 6th inning the Red Raiders were on top. Things looked good. They had out batted the Warriors seven hits to one. They were in the lead 3-0. But a wild 6th inning changed that. In the end the Warriors took the lead and held on beating South Point 4-3.

Last week when the rematch came back up South Point took no chances. They put ace pitcher Garret Davila on the mound. Davila is having a banner year. A University of Tennessee signee, Davila looks like he will be drafted in June’s Major League Baseball Draft. Davila played up to the fanfare fanning 11 Warrior batters and pitching a no-hitter to help South Point win 6-0.

The Red Raiders got 8 hits on the night against East Gaston. South Point opened things up in the 2nd inning by bringing in 5 runs. They scored again in the 6th inning.

Davila also had a solid outing in the batting department for South Point. Davila belted out two hits and pushed in three

RBI’s to lead the Red Raider offense.

Ryland Etherton and Logan Egerton had a pair of hits and Tim Davila contributed with an an additional RBI to fuel the South Point batting machine.

On the East Gaston side the Warriors put up one of their best in Tyler Price. In the last South Point game Price got the win. But this time the results were different. Price did what he could to hold the fort down. In 5 innings pitched he struck out five. But with no offense there was nothing that could be done.

With the win South Point is on a roll. They have won 6 in a row and are sporting a 10-3 record. The Red Raiders are also tied for first place in the Big South with Lake Norman Charter. Lake Norman and South Point faced off on Monday.

Those results will be featured next week.

Gaston Christian School varsity ladies softball won last week against Southlake Christian Academy with a score of 6-2. Mary Madison Goforth (two hits, 1 RBI) and Sarah Adams (two hits) led the Lady Eagles offensively. Madison Ramsey had the win with 12 strikeouts.

The Eagles also defeated Mountain Island Charter School 14-0 in 5 innings on Tuesday. Leading hitters were Lauren Adams (three hits, double, triple, 3 RBIs), Anna Crenshaw (two hits, 2 RBIs), Lilly Barrett (2 hits, homerun, RBI), and Madison Ramsey (two hits, RBI). Ramsey had the win with 10 strikeouts.

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Aubree Boyd of Mt. Island Charter School gets a hit in last week’s 14-0 loss to Gaston Christian School.

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Page 14

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Banner-News Sports & School Happenings

(Above) Mt. Island Charter #20 Ashton Suggs and York Prep’s #19 Elena Walrod get ready to bang shins in last week’s game that saw the Raptors win 4-1.

(Left) Mt. Island Charter ladies soccer took a 4-1 win over York Prep last week. In this shot York Prep’s Payton Lane #8 and MICS Skylar Sorrow #4 go for the ball.

Photos by Bill Ward

Gaston County Schools News

Schools team up to make and install sculpture

Four Highland School of Technology students were selected to attend Governor’s School 2015: George Dent, Governor’s School East, Instrumental Music; Savannah Lutz, Governor’s School West, Instrumental Music; Matthew Noles, Governor’s School East, Social Sciences; and Ellie Sweezy, Governor’s School East, Social Sciences.

W.A. Bess Elementary fourth grader Gabby Knight was awarded first place in the Art for Heart Contest, sponsored by The Heart Society of Gaston County. Bess fourth grader Jade Juarez won second place in the competition.

The South Point High School Chamber Choir received a Superior rating in Grade VI at Music Performance Adjudication held at First ARP Church in Gastonia. The Advanced Women’s Choir and Beginning Chorus both received an Excellent rating in Grade IV. They are directed by Melissa Glover.

The Highland School of Technology Math Club placed first in both the 9-10 and 11-12 grade divisions at the TEAMS Competition at UNCCharlotte. Joe Yavelak is the advisor for this group; team members are: Tobi Adelekun, Jennifer Chan, George Dent, Baldev Desai, Bonham Ekleberry, Reilly Gallagher, Jesse Hambrick, Michael McMahon, Miriam Okonkwo, Christian Rodgers, Hayley Rose, Ryan Thurston, Ethan Wu, Evann Wu. The Cramerton Middle School 8th Grade Chorus took home several awards from the “Festival Disney 2015” middle school chorus competition in Orlando, Fla. Led by Choral Director Patty Fayssoux, Cramerton’s Treble Chorus earned first place in its division, and the Mixed Chorus earned second place. Both ensembles also received “Best in Class” awards for their divisions. Fifty-four students participated, and were accompanied by Susan Lisle, pianist, and Katie Carpenter, violinist and conga drum percussionist.

East Gaston High School’s HOSA club received recognition at the State Leadership Conference. Tyler Rapp placed third in Medical Math, and qualified for the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, Calif.

The Public Service Announcement team of Harley Bourgeois, Stephanee Costner, Emily Davis and Amanda Angstadt placed seventh in the state.

Gardner Park Elementary selected Terrific Kids for the month of February for displaying honesty in their classrooms. Each student received a certificate, a “Terrific Kids” decal, free admission to Kate’s Skating Rinks, and a pencil from Kiwanis Club of Gastonia. Award winners were: Benjamin Guerrero Cortez, Thilyn Lindsay, Rylan Greene, Kaleb Huff, Carolina Leal Alfonso, Jeremiah Ivester, Brayden Bagnell, Kendal Clubb, Grayson Tate, Daren Morales, Aldair Avendano Melcor, Sophia Grevey, Anna Campbell, Gavin Fields, Janiya-Marie Acosta, Carson Sherer, Carolyn Parsons, Victoria Moscol, Plamedi Warsinsky, Hayden Massey, James Bolinsky, Anna Townsend, Ashley Martell, Danari McIllwain, Lauren Bolin, Ronnie Sparks, James Bailey, Stephany Acosta, and Peyton Montgomery.

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

By Alan Hodge A huge hawk and nest took up residence on the campus of Mount Holly Middle School last week. But it’s not made of feathers and sticks, it’s actually formed from about 600 pounds of steel.

The story picks up last December when Gina Hough of the school’s PTO beautification committee mentioned at a meeting that something was needed in front of Mount Holly Middle’s gym besides mulch and a few bushes.

“Amanda Matz, PTO president, thought it would be cool to do a big nest and hawk since that’s the school mascot,” Hough said.

Hough contacted Stuart Cramer High welding teacher Brian Lucas with the idea and his students went to work.

“I let my advanced class welders do the project,” Lucas said.

“They had experience since they had already built a six-foot snowman from metal.”

The PTO bought the materials and the welders made a huge Gaston County Schools workers strained to unload the new nest from rebar and the hawk from sheet steel. Stuart Cramer sculpture that was placed in front of Mount Holly Middle student Aaron Johnson drew the hawk design which was cut out School last week. The piece was made by the Stuart Cramer with a plasma cutter.

High welding class and weighs about 600 pounds.

“I loved working on the project,” said Johnson.

Tenth-grader Monica Dotson helped bend the rebar.

“It was really fun and good experience,” she said.

Once the nest and hawk arrived at MHMS, four Gaston Schools workers and several students strained to unload the artwork and put it in place. That done, everyone stood back and admired the project.

“It’s fantastic and a nice way for our two schools to connect,” said MHMS principal Jennifer Reep.

Stuart Cramer principal Audrey Devine agreed.

“It’s a great partnership,” she said. “We have a lot of talent in our welding class and they helped build a sense Staff and students from Mount Holly Middle and Stuart Cramer High schools are seen with of community with Mount the new sculpture that was made in the Stuart Cramer welding class and installed last week at Mount Holly Middle.

Photos by Alan Hodge Holly Middle.”

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 15

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Page 16

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Banner-News Sports & School Happenings

Springfield Elementary School announces March Students of the Month

Springfield Elementary March Students of the Month, Kindergarten, self-discipline: Madison White, Gavin Santiago, NeVeah Jackson, Lacey Edwards, Amberic Lowe, Liam McLendon, Adrian Lambert, Samantha Rogers, Trent Taylor, Brianna Keovongsa, Atlanta Taylor, Valerie Reyes, Donte Thompson, Alyssa Nicholson, Jacob Williamson, Bella Symonds, Kody Kirkland, Cooper Austin, Kaiden Messerschmidt, and Nathan Parker.

Abbey volleyball wins 9 regular season games The Belmont Abbey men’s volleyball team capped off its best regular season in school history with a 3-0 win over the visiting LeesMcRae Bobcats April 14 inside the Wheeler Center on Senior Night.

Belmont Abbey needed just one hour and four minutes to dismiss the Bobcats by scores of 25-19, 26-24 and 2518. Belmont Abbey is now 13-13 overall and finishes the Conference Carolinas schedule with a 9-9 mark.

The nine conference wins is a new program high, eclipsing the record of six in the first season of 2013, and the 13 overall wins is also a new program high. Lees-McRae ends its season with a mark of 3-19 overall and 2-16 in Conference Carolinas.

Three seniors: Eddie Pennington, Brandon Kimbrell and student assistant coach Spencer Fournell were honored prior to the match, with Pennington earning his first career start as a setter.

Belmont Abbey photo Belmont Abbey hit .267 as Nolan Albrecht tied for the match high with 12 kills. Anthony Pippen added eight and Dustin Buell contributed six. Kimbrell finished with three.

Pennington, in his first career start at setter, logged career-highs with 26 assists and three kills. He hit .333 for the match.

Defensively, Jon Lowenhagen’s five digs led the way with Albrecht adding three. At the net, Pennington recorded two block assists, while Buell logged a match-high three.

Buell added two block solos.

Catawba Catfish Club Tournament results

March first grade Students of the Month for self-discipline: Helena Healy, Wendy Garcia Zavala, Lillie Rankin, Zarjhia Goode, Ashlyn Price, Aleijah Gillenwater, Melody Seigle, Izabella Hughes, Isaiah Goins, Hannah Somers, Jy’Kim Hall, Kyndall Phillips, Isiah Hutto, Makenna Snipes and Jordan Sims.

March Students of the Month for second grade, self-discipline: Kaylee Revis, Lawson Burgess, Selina Ashe, Jason Garica, Trey’von Johnson, Halie Jo Gosnell, Logan Masters, Damien Thompson, Lucas Blackburn, Steven Abernathy, Maddie Pettus, Gavin Chance,Summer Dillow, and Hannah Aponte.

Photos furnished

The Catawba Catfish Club had its 8th tournament of the 2014-2015 Season April 11 on Lake Wateree in Winnsboro, S.C..A total of 37 boats comprised of 76 anglers show up to fish. All were fishing for a Total Pot of $1520. All were greeted with a morning low at the ramps of 66 degrees,temps rose in the afternoon to around 82. Water temp was 69-70 with 5-10 mph wind. In the end the bite proved to be decent for most anglers with 32 of 37 boats weighing in fish. After all weights were calculated the team of Team Get the Net (Harry Dickerson and Jamie Dickerson) picked up the win with a 3 fish stringer of 97.50 lbs,very impressive indeed and good for $608 1st Place money.

Team Get the Nets Jamie Dickerson also won the Big Fish Pot with a 43.80 lb Blue and collected $370 for that with all 37 boats entered in that..

Team Trophy Hunter took over the Points lead from Team DMD with a solid 4th Place Finish. Team DMD and Team Reel Time/Fish Bite Rod Holders struggled today but still hold down 2nd and 3rd respectfully.

Here are the top two finishers 1. Team Get the Net (Harry Dickerson and Jamie Dickerson)-97.50 lbs and $608 2.Team Reel Fools(Jonathon Hilton and Steve Seegars)-77.75 lbs and $380 Next Tournament: Lake Wylie, May 9, Buster Boyd Access, 6:00am -3:00pm, 3:30pm Weigh In.

Team “Get the Net”

Team “Reel Fools” Photos furnished

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page 17

Local barista, Dave Dellinger, receives certification ©CommunityFirstMedia

Dave Dellinger, the head barista at Floyd and Blackie’s Coffee Shop in Cramerton has received his certification from the International Academy of Specialty Coffee. To gain his

certification Dellinger passed a six page written and practical test. He is one of only seven other baristas in North Carolina to have the academy designation.

Dellinger says he’s always been interested in the coffee business and has been involved in it for about 20 years.

“I enjoy seeing the smile on a customer’s face when they take It’s Spring the first sip of a and time for cup I’ve made for our checkup. them,” he said.

Call for Discount Prices on The International Academy • Spays • Neuters • Vaccinations of Specialty CofCall Today About Our Specials! fee is the eduCall Today For Your Appointment 704-867-3514 cational arm of Coffee Fest, the world’s largest coffee trade show.

2730 West Franklin Blvd. • Gastonia, NC (Just below Walmart)

YOUR PETS DESERVE THE VERY BEST!

PHILLIPS ANIMAL MEDICAL HOSPITAL

Dave Dellinger outside Floyd & Blackie’s Coffeehouse in Belmont, NC

t a k o o L

ESTATES 185 Crystal Springs Ln.

... We’ve Been Busy

The show is held three times a year in the U.S. All of the coffee served in

Floyd and Blackies is grown without pesticides or other chemicals.

Patio Home

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths Double garage, overhead light, attic storage and stairway to storage, sun room and patio.

Call Charles Tarlton 704-349-0461 Design/Broker

Under Contract

193 Crystal Springs Ln. Townhome $155,000.00 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths

Photos by Annie Jenkins

Great plan with 11 and 9 foot ceilings. Double garage with covered patio and grilling area.

Call Don Peeler 704-913-1033 Design/Broker

Gaston College staffer part of Project Linus

For Sale

195 Crystal Springs Ln. Townhome

2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Large master bedroom and closet, family room with gas fireplace and custom kitchen.

Call Charles Tarlton 704-349-0461 Design/Broker

SOLD

197 Crystal Springs Ln. Townhome $165,000.00 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Open great room with hardwood laminates. Screen porch and patio. Living room with fireplace.

Call Don Peeler 704-913-1033 Design/Broker

For Sale

203 Crystal Springs Ln. Townhome

2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Large master bedroom bath and walk-in closet.

Kitchen with bar and hardwood laminates.

Call Charles Tarlton 704-349-0461 Design/Broker

Under Contract

ESTATES 100 T.R. Harris Dr. • Shelby, NC 28150 (Office located inside the Neal Senior Center)

www.crystalspringsnc.com

*Pricing and Financing are subject to change without notice. Financing Available to Qualified Buyers

In September 2014, Gaston College launched its Give 50 for 50 Community Service Challenge to encourage faculty, staff, students, alumni and retirees of the college to volunteer hours to organizations and institutions that serve Gaston and Lincoln counties and the surrounding area. Debbie Sigmon, administrative assistant to the vicepresident for Economic and Workforce Development, was one of the first Gaston College staff members to sign on to the program.

Sigmon is donating her time and talent to Project Linus, a non-profit organization that collects donations of new, handmade blankets and delivers them to children and young people in need. Blankets have been distributed in hospitals, shelters, social service agencies, or, as the organization’s website says, “anywhere that a child might be in need of a big hug.”

A magazine article introduced Sigmon to Project Linus in December 2013. The organization’s dedication to providing comfort to children was especially appealing to her, and she decided to use her crocheting skills to support their efforts. In early 2014, she began work on a blanket intended for an infant. From the Project Linus website, she chose a single-stich pattern so that the finished blanket would have no “holes” that could tangle medical equip-

Debbie Sigmon ment. Completing the infant blanket took about 20 hours.

Sigmon has also completed a larger blanket that will be appropriate for a teenager. She is putting her own creative touches on a basic pattern from Project Linus and will add a decorative border to complete the blanket.

She has put over 50 hours into crocheting this blanket and she finished it over the holiday break. She will then bring both blankets to the Project Linus drop-off site and the local chapter of the organization will arrange to deliver them to those who need them most.

Project Linus had delivered over five million new, handmade blankets since 1998. To learn more about Project Linus and its local chapters and drop-off sites, visit www.projectlinus.org.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 18

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Need A Classified?

CLASSIFIED ADS For Sale TRADE LOT AND FLEA MARKET. 758 Hwy 120, Mooresboro, NC. Open each Saturday, from 6am to 2pm. Beside Go Cart Race Track. 704-473-0666.

Autos/Trucks 2008 HONDA CIVIC, 74K MILES, sun roof, grey color, $8300. 2008 Toyota Corolla, 48k miles, red color, $9300. 828-7757433.

MOTOR FOR SALE, 2002 NISSAN Sentra, 1.8 motor, only 110k miles, $625 nego. Also, 1993 Pontiac Sunbird, runs great, $1800. 864-838-4020.

1986 CHEVY DUMP TRUCK, Crew cab, new motor, new tires, runs like new. Roofing equipment can go with it. 704-284-4531.

2003 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. 93K. Well maintained. All service records 100K service completed. Very good cond. $5500 obo.

704-481-8338.

1985 MAZDA RX7 GSL, white with red interior, automatic, sunroof. Runs good, $2800. Call 704-300-1818.

2010 MALIBU, 93K MILES, highway, very clean, no damage, leather interior, maintained regularly, asking $8500 obo. 704739-1421.

2008 FORD EXPLORER XLT, very good condition, $9500 obo.

704-466-3814, 704-472-2923.

2009 FORD FOCUS SE 4DR., automatic, 48,000 mi. (tires replaced midway), cruise, air, MP3, Sirius radio. Metallic Sangria red, $9300. 863-640-2329.

Boats 2 BOAT ENGINES. 2 Marine Ford 300HP inboard/outboard motors. Complete with all accessories, gauges, etc. Only $3500 for both. 704-466-2671.

Business Services PROPERTY CLEAN-UP AND LANDSCAPING. Remove limbs and debris, trim shrubs, spread mulch and gravel, clean gutters and more. Years of experience in Rutherford and Cleveland County. Robert 704-284-8170.

GOLD, GEMSTONES, RARE MINERALS, jewelry making classes and all your prospecting needs. Gold panning field trips.

KM Gold & Gem Mining. 704466-5570, 980-223-9184.

I WILL PAINT BARNS. 704-2848170.

SWIMMING POOLS, PUMPS, filters, liners, chemicals, inground & above ground supplies.

Serving the area for 40 years.

KM POOLS, 704-739-1711.

PIANO REPAIR AND TUNING. Call 704-692-4693.

LAWNCARE. I WANT LAWNS TO CUT. Boiling Springs & Shelby area. 828-748-3366.

SLOW BUT DEPENDABLE PAINTING & SMALL REMODELING. Painting, Cleaning, Remodeling, Yard Work. Free estimates. Call Boyce at 704284-0424.

Campers CAMPING, RV SPACES, TENT, Rental Units. 2015 Seasonal Sites available. Scenic Ridge Country Campground. 704-4350938, Cherryville.

2008 TRAVEL TRAILER, 33ft, 4 bunks, ref, toilet, shower, tub, TV, 1 slide, great condition inside & out. $11,975. 470-477-1557, 704-472-9177.

Campers

For Rent

For Rent

36 FT WINDSPORT 2009. 17K miles. 3 slides, fireplace, dining table/4 chairs. Excellent condition. Includes car dolly. $90K obo.

704-482-9335.

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has 1BR HUD subsidized apts for low income seniors. Taking applications. Age 62 or older. 211 N. Morgan St., Shelby. 704-482COVER FOR 34’ TAG A LONG 7723, Equal Housing OpportuniCAMPER, used 3 months, new ty. condition, $300. 704-734-1005.

MOBILE HOME FOR RENT in Waco area. No pets. 704-4358103.

Caregiver

Retired Nurse with excellent references is looking to help with homecare of a senior citizen or disabled person. Call: 704-3923208. Leave Message. (4/15 & 22)

Employment A Local Home Care Agency: Seeking CNA’s & PCA’s, All Shifts. Serious Inquiries Apply Online: www.stressfreehomecare.com. Subject to Background Check and Drug Test. (4/22, 29, 5/06 & 5/13) CHURCH NURSERY ATTENDENT NEEDED. Sunday morning, Wednesday night and occasional special events. Call 704-827-4855 or email resume to: fumcmhnc1@gmail.com” tofumcmhnc1@gmail.com.

(4/22)

Call Kathy today!

704.739.7496

2&3 BR APARTMENTS available now! Stove & refrig furnished, W/D hookups. Rent based on income. EHO. Shelby.

704-487-1114.

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3BR at 3 Locations. Low Weekly rates.

Free Power & Water. Visit us online @ Oakwood Rentals Shelby or call 704-473-4299.

For Sale

2BR, 2BA MOBILE HOME, nice and open inside! Near Moss Lake, rent to own for $445 mo and own in only 4.5 yrs. Pets ok.

980-939-6633 x4.

CENTRAL BOILER OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Safe, Clean, Efficient, WOOD HEAT. 25 year warranty available. Mill Spring Outdoor Furnaces 828-2452BR APARTMENT, $350 0174.

MONTH, $350 deposit, Cherryville utilities, stove furnished, MULCH: CLEVELAND COUNCherryville area. 704-604-6453. TY’S BEST PRICE on IPEMA Certified Playground Surfacing.

LATTIMORE 3BR, 1.5BA on Pick-up or delivered. Playground quiet road. Crest/Springmore. Equipment Sales and InstallaWasher/dryer connections. $525 tions. 704-487-7774. included water & trash pickup.

TWO SWIVEL BAR STOOLS, 704-472-9798. $60 each. Tanning bed - Pro 3BR, 1BA SINGLE FAMILY Sun, used approximately one HOME, newly renovated. $650 hour, $2900. 1971 VW (red), mo. First month and $650 deposit runs, reupholstered, $3800. 704required. For more info, contact 538-6767.

Renee @ 980-404-0200.

MOVE IN TODAY. VALUE Land For Sale/Lease PLACE, $189 weekly. Fully furnished studio w/kitchen. Simple LOTS IN GASTON, CLEVEcomfort costs less. 1010 Sue LAND, RUTHERFORD and Lane, Shelby. 704-487-1001.

CHEROKEE CO., some with waMOBILE HOMES FOR RENT in ter & septic. Credit no problem, Kings Mtn and Crouse. 2 & 3BR, owner will finance with low DP. references and deposit required. Call Bryant Realty at 704-5679836 or www.bryantrealty.org.

No pets. 704-284-0033.

(4/01,08,15, 22 & 29) 2BR 1.5BA, NICE COUNTRY LIVING, 10 minutes from Shelby.

NO PETS. Retirees Welcome.

Want To Buy 704-692-0447.

SPRINGTIME SPECIAL, 1.2.3 CASH ON THE SPOT! Will buy BR, $400 -$450. No deposit, no tools, furniture, riding lawn mowThe City of Belmont, Parks and application fee. 704-482-8385. ers or building full of merchanRecreation Dept. is currently seeking a temporary professional ser- FOR RENT: 1BR APARTMENT dise, pictures or anything of valvices of a skilled independent con- on South Post Rd. Includes ap- ue. Will also buy musical tractor to provide specified food and pliances, $400 per mo., $400 instruments. Call: 704-300-0827 beverage services to the general deposit. Call, 704-487-8282 or or 704-300-7676. (4/22) public at our current fields. (Rod- 704-692-0091. den, Frady, Stowe Field, Reid and 2BR, 1BA EFFICIENCY MOFor Sale Gantt). Please call 704-901-2069 BILE HOME in Kings Mtn, near or visit www.cityofbelmont.org for Hwy 74 bypass, rent to own only a concession contract to submit for $320 mo! Own in only 2 yrs. Pets Wheelchairs, Bed, Lift Chair and etc. items for sale. Please review. (4/15, 22, 29 & 5/06) ok. 980-939-6633 x4. call 704-689-4510 if interested in any item. (4/22) DRIVER WANTED – Permanent Position, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Weekends Off. MUST HAVE Class A or B CDL’s. Hazardous Materials. Tanker Endorsements. Mechanical Skills. Resumes should be submitted to: PO Box 145, Cherryville, NC 28021. (4/15, 22 & 29)

NEED BUSINESS CARDS TO PROMOTE YOURSELF & YOUR BUSINESS? 1000 raised print business cards starting at $35 + tax. Shelby Shopper & Info, 503 N. Lafayette St, Shelby, NC 704-484-1047 or Rutherford Weekly, 369 Butler Rd, Forest City, NC 828-248-1408.

REFRIGERATORS, STOVES, washers, dryers & odd furniture.

Call 704-481-0954. After 5pm, call 704-482-0540.

TRAILERS, Lawn mower trailers enclosed, equipment, horse & cattle trailers, saddlery. Check our prices before you buy!!

Bridges Riding Equipment, Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389.

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS WITH SCRATCH PADS! Press Room Printing. 704-538-5788, 704-482-2243.

EXCALIBUR COMPUTER SERVICE, We repair and sell laptops and desktops, most repairs in 3 days or less. 704-4345057, M-F. 8am-5pm.

HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE, square bale, 704-4876855.

ROSE HILL CEMETERY, FALLSTON. Two grave sites for sale. 704-297-5436.

Yard Sale MOVING SALE - EVERYTHING MUST GO! FRIDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 24 & 25. 7:00 am - 2:00 pm RAIN/SHINE. 125 LUCKY STRIKE DRIVE-GOLD RUN DEVELOPMENT, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC Tools, Tools, Tools: Lifetime collection. Most USA Made. Craftsman socket sets and tools chests.

Hundreds of items. Lawn tools: String trimmer, leaf blower, air compressor, pressure washer, etc.

Stereo equipment: receiver, CD player, speakers, etc. Clocks: Two 70 year old Seth Thomas Mantel Clocks.

Radio equipment: Cobra CD, Bearcat scanner, radar detector, Garmin GPS system. Deck table & chairs,umbrella, gas grill, storage chest. Refrigerator: White GE 17 CF. Top freezer. Like new. Auto care items: Griot’s Polisher Kit, cleaners, wax, etc. Hundreds of other items. Everything will be sold!!!

ESTATE SALE – Sat, April 25th.

110 Ervin St, Belmont. Household items, Bedroom furniture, Sleeper Sofa, Mechanical Chair, Dishes, Glassware and etc. (4/16 & 22) MOVING SALE, Fri., April 24th, 8 am - 6 pm and Sat, April 25th, 8 am - 12(noon). 115 Camelot Court (Off Phifer Road) in Kings Mountain.

CLASSIFIEDS WORK!

Personal Classified Ads

Employment Wanted WILL SIT WITH YOUR LOVED ONES, 12 hrs. day or 12 hrs. night for $60. Have A-1 references. 704-530-5218.

For Rent HOUSE FOR RENT in CHERRYVILLE. 2 BR, 1 BA, central heat and AC. Includes stove, refrigerator, washer, dryer, and storage building. $450 per month, $450 deposit. References required. Call (704) 4358750 and leave message. (4/22 & 29, 5/06 &13) MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTAIN-Prices starting at $100/ week. Call 704-739-4417 or (evening) 704-739-1425. (tfn) FREEDOM MOBILE HOME PARK $150 dep and $325-$375 mo for 2BR, no pets. Shelby. 704-4182803.

ONE WEEK

Onl

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$

TWO WEEKS

Only

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

10

$

00

10

THREES WEEK

00 Per Week

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

Only

12

$

00

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

Clip & Mail Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________City______________________ Zip____________ Email _____________________________________________________ Phone: __________________________ Ad Copy: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________

2 & 3 BR. MOBILE HOMES. Nice & clean. Water, furnished. Oak Grove Comm. 704-739-0259.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

CIRCLE PARK & OAKHURST PARK, Yarbro Rd, Kings Mtn. Several 2 & 3 BR mobile homes for rent.

Heat pump, stove, & refrig. Washer & dryer hookups. $100 to $125 wk. No pets. Deposit & references required. 704-739-8828, 704-4727933.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

UTILITIES INCLUDED. $189 weekly. VALUE PLACE under New Management. Fully furnished studio w/ kitchen. Simple comfort cost less.

1010 Sue Lane. Shelby, NC. 704487-1001.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ (Be sure to include phone number in ad copy.)

Total Words________ Number of Issues _______ Classification ______________________________

Amount Enclosed $_____________ Mail this form to: 700 East Gold St. • Kings Mountain • NC 28086 OR Call Kathy at 704-739-7496

Thursday, April 23, 2015

K

The Banner News / banner-news.com

or Ne s r A G ES! F L O L N R A U F id

K

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 20

Walk-Ins Welcome!

Mon-Fri 9-7 Saturday 9-4

Ask about our Color, Hi-Lite & Perm Specials!

Regular Price: $12 - Seniors $12 Kids 7 & under • $15 - Adults 6513 W Wilkinson Blvd in Belmont (Located at Bi Lo Shopping Center in Belmont) (704) 825-6099

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Photo by Alan Hodge

New exhibits on display at Belmont Historical Society The Belmont Historical Society Cultural and Heritage Learning Center, 40 Catawba St. has several new and exciting exhibits awaiting visitors. Displays include a hand painted mural depicting a typical mid-20th century mill village, two display cases filled with textile mill artifacts including bobbins and a watchman’s clock, a number of black and white photos showing mill workers on the job, and items such as stockings and shirts made from yarn produced in Belmont mills.

In addition, tickets to the upcoming Citizen of the Year banquet are available at the museum and also at Belmont General Store. The event will take place May 7 at 7pm at Park St. UMC. For more information call 704-825-4848.

OUTDOOR TRUTHS

By Gary Miller

Aiming Outdoorsmen Toward Christ Turkey hunting where I live is not for the faint of heart. Even though there are some easy places most of the hunting I do is in the mountains. Our mountains GARY MILLER are not like the Rockies but they are also not like the deep south. The highest peak is about three thousand feet. Needless to say to traverse the ridges and valleys in search of turkeys can be a very exhausting experience.

And it seems that if I’m on this side of the hollow the bird is always on the other side. So, here I go down in the depths of the hollow on this side only to climb up to the top of the ridge on the other side. By the second week of hunting I’m in great shape. What I have noticed, however, is that the view is always better the higher I get. And not only is the view better but it’s that particular view that always lingers in my mind. I never think about the wonderful sites in the small dark valleys but the picturesque landscape from the top of the mountain remains permanently ingrained in the recesses of my mind. I often think of the possibilities of getting lost when I keep climbing and climbing. You know, it’s easy to do that when we’re so wrapped up in getting to the top. You can get so turned around that you lose your bearing. The experts say when this happens, find a water source and follow it down stream. Down stream? You mean to find where I’m at I have to go down? You mean down in the hollows? You mean down in the valleys? You mean down where it’s dark and where the view is limited and confined? I guess so.

Sometimes we all get caught up in climbing higher and higher in things other than hunting. We get wrapped up in the possibilities and what may lie just ahead. In the climb, sometimes, we lose sight of whom, what and where we are. It’s at that time the Lord has to awaken us and bring us back to Him and to ourselves. How do we get there? Through the valley. But don’t fear the valley because it’s there where He always shows us the way back home. gary@outdoortruths.org ~ www.outdoortruths.org

Thursday, April 23, 2015