INSIDE... Obituaries ................. 2 Police Report ............ 7 School News ............ 8 Classified Ads ........... 7 Sports ..................... 6
Serving Belmont, Mount Holly, Stanley, Cramerton and McAdenville
Volume 79 • Issue 47 • Wednesday, November 19, 2014
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Mount Holly Heroes Honored On Veterans Day By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
The Mount Holly Historical Society held a Veterans Day event in First Presbyterian Church and so many folks showed up it was standing room only. “We are here tonight to honor all veterans from Mount Holly,” said keynote speaker MHHS vice president and treasurer Garrie Brinkley. “That is what tonight is really about. It's a chance for us to say to veterans that we remember you and that we thank you for your service.” The evening was a solemn remembrance to veterans of the past, and also a recognition of veterans of the present. The crowd was an eclectic blend of veterans, their fam-
of slides contributed to the MHHS over the past couple of months that had been created from photos of and by local veterans. Scenes included battle action, photos taken in camp, others taken on leave with loved ones, and newspaper front pages announcing the end of WWII. Brinkley said one of the best parts of gathering the photos was talking to the folks who contributed them. “It has been a personal privilege for me to hear the stories from some of our veterans and from their family members and friends,” he said. “They are stories of bravery, sorrow, discovery, stories of the joys of those returning home and stories of deep sadness for those that did not return.” A list was complied and presented at the event telling how many children Mount Holly families had sent to the military. Mrs. R.H. Stowe had five veterans- Ed, Bob, Larkin, Wearn, and Bill. Many others had two,three, and four names on the roster. Far-flung places that Mount Holly veterans had served in also got attention. Photo by Alan Hodge “Many of our veterans reU.S. Army veteran Raymond Vanni was on hand at the turned to Mount Holly to work, Mount Holly Historical Society Veterans Day event with raised families, and to live out some of his memorabilia. The photos show military ve- their lives,” said Brinkley. Then there were the medals hicles he's restored. these veterans have earned in ilies and friends, civic leaders, and people conflicts across the decades. These included who just wanted to say “thanks” to those 17 Purple Hearts, eight Bronze Stars, two who have and are currently serving in our Distinguished Flying Crosses, and a Silmilitary. ver Star. Two Mount Holly veterans were The event kicked off with a presentation POWS.
Photo by Alan Hodge Folks are seen standing at attention in First Presbyterian Church as Paige Sisk leads the National Anthem during the Mount Holly Historical Society Veterans Day tribute. The event saw a huge crowd turn out to honor veterans past and present. The names of the 13 veterans from Mount Holly who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country- five were from WWII, one from Korea, one from WWI, and six from Vietnam- were also recognized Finally, the names of all Mount Holly veterans were read and their photo flashed on the screen. This was followed by a moving rendition of “Taps”. After the First Presbyterian portion of the evening was done, folks filed next door to the MHHS museum to see a display of military artifacts, have refreshments, and mingle. Several uniforms that had belonged to local veterans were up for viewing as well as a display of items including canteens, grenades, various accoutrements, and a replica .50 caliber machine gun that drew a
Contributed Photo This picture was just one of dozens of local veterans that were flashed on a screen in First Presbyterian Church during the Mount Holly Historical Society Veterans Day event. lot of attention. The photos of the veterans will be displayed on a wide screen TV monitor in the MHHS museum window in the coming weeks. The military artifacts inside will be on view until January.
War World II Reenacting Veterans Day in Belmont By Alan Hodge
By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
alan.bannernews@gmail. com
“As a kid I grew up talking with guys who were in WWII. They were my heroes then and they are still my heroes.” That's what Al Kirby, 62, of North Belmont says led him into reenacting a soldier of the “Greatest Generation” over 17 years ago and still drives that passion to this day. Contributed Photo Kirby's fascination with the WWII era has seen him Al Kirby, second from left rear row, is seen with other WWII travel to places like Nor- reenactors in the field. Kirby has more recently put down his mandy, France, where he rifle and now portrays an army chaplain. and others portrayed U.S. those hallowed shores. he said of the switch. Army soldiers during reenKirby has also traveled Before moving to North actments of D-Day. extensively in the Northeast Belmont three years ago “As early as age sixteen taking part in reenactments. with his wife, Kirby also fed I knew I would go to NorPrior to getting involved his WWII appetite by servmandy one day,” Kirby with WWII reenacting, ing as a docent at the Battlesaid. Kirby, a native of Massa- ship Massachusetts site. That vision came true not chusetts and a retired fire“I organized WWII once but five times. During fighter, did the Civil War weekends and living history his visit in 1999, Kirby thing for eight years. programs,” he said. made time to comb Omaha “World War II is more When it comes time to and Utah beaches, and bring fun and there are still veter- go out in the field, he's a home a vial of sand from ans around you can talk to,” member of the 1st Div. 26th Inf. reenactment group. “We portray the average soldier of WWII,” said Kirby. “We try to spend the weekend like they did.” Recently, Kirby has transitioned his WWII impression from a rifle toting infantryman to a field chaplain impression. “I saw a need and felt a calling to do it,” he says of that switch. A member of Park St. United Methodist Church, Photo by Alan Hodge Kirby can do religious serWWII reenactor Al Kirby of North Belmont shows off the vices and give communion replica bazooka he made from a piece of pipe and other bits. at reenactment events. Kirby has taken his fasKirby has traveled extensively, including multiple trips to Europe, taking part in WWII living history programs and battle cination with WWII to the next level, or split level as reenactments. the case may be. He's transformed the basement of his home into a replica WWII Army Air Corps officers' club complete with bar, period radio, copies of WWII newspapers, booze brands, blackout curtains, and pinup girl pictures. Another part of his basement has been See WWII, page 2
Eleven rings of a bell in front of the Spirit of the Fighting Yank WWII memorial statue in Stowe Park, under brilliant blue skies, marked the start of Belmont’s annual Veterans Day ceremony last week. The tones marked the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Photo by Alan Hodge World War I – known at the time Dave Robinson delivers the keynote address at Belmont's Veterans as “The Great War” Day event in Stowe Park as the Fighting Yank statue looks on. – officially ended when the Treaty of In November 1919, Pres- ber, and U.S. Army veteran, Versailles was signed on ident Wilson proclaimed gave the POW ceremony June 28, 1919, in the Pal- November 11 as the first after ringing the bell. Forace of Versailles outside the commemoration of Ar- mer Belmont mayor Billy town of Versailles, France. mistice Day. The original Joye, a USAF veteran However, fighting ceased concept for the celebration welcomed the throng. The seven months earlier when was for a day observed with South Point High JNROTC an armistice, or temporary parades and public meetings group presented the colors. cessation of hostilities, be- and a brief suspension of The Pledge of Allegiance tween the Allied nations and business beginning at 11am. was led by Post 144 memGermany went into effect In Belmont a nice sized ber and USAF veteran Fred on the eleventh hour of the crowd assembled on Main Dixon. This was followed by a nice rendition of the National Anthem by Janice Bell. Mayor Charlie Martin, a US Navy veteran and son of a WWII POW, spoke. “We need to appreciate the sacrifices of our men and women veterans,” he said. “We are so blessed to have our freedoms.” Dave Robinson, a US Army veteran of Korea and Vietnam, gave the keynote adPhoto by Alan Hodge dress. “We should be A large crowd, including Pearl Harbor survivor Gene Reinhardt in forever humbly grateblue shirt, showed up at Belmont's Veterans Day ceremony in Stowe ful to veterans living Park. and dead,” Robinson said. “When freedom eleventh day of the eleventh St. to hear veterans, their had to be fought for, they month. For that reason, No- service, and sacrifices, re- stood the test. They are solvember 11, 1918, is gener- membered. diers of democracy. Amerally regarded as the end of Larry Norwood, Ameri- ican veterans brought more “the war to end all wars.” can Legion Post 144 mem- freedom to more people See BELMONT VETERANS, page 2
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BELMONT VETERAN
■ OBITUARIES
From page 1 than any nation in history.” Robinson reminded the crowd that America was still embroiled in war. “Today, our nation is fighting for its life against terrorism,” he said. Belmont police chaplain Cpl. Dough Huffstetler delivered the closing prayer. After the event, former comrades in arms, many in their 80s and 90s, met and shared stories and hugs as the Fighting Yank looked down approvingly.
Edwyn Lee Coffey
Photo by Alan Hodge Janice Bell sings the National Anthem at Belmont's Veterans Day event as keynote speaker Dave Robinson, Mayor Charlie Martin, and former mayor Billy Joye salute the flag.
Photo by Alan Hodge Veterans, from left; Walter Savage, Richard Bolich, and Lewis Crawford enjoyed the nice weather at Belmont's Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Alan Hodge Vietnam veteran John Finch and Mayor Charlie Martin shared some words at Belmont's Veterans Day event.
WWII
Photo by Alan Hodge The South Point High NJROTC unit presented the colors at Belmont's Veterans Day event.
From page 1 converted into a field chaplain's Quonset hut office. Yet another section of the basement has space for his reenacting gear including uniforms, accoutrements, and a replica bazooka Kirby made from a piece of pipe. Kirby is eager to share his love of WWII with anyone who will listen. He's set to give a presentation on
Nov. 25 at the Mount Holly Historical Society museum. “I'll talk to anyone who wants me for the cost of gas,” he said. “The program can last from thirty minutes to three hours.” “We could meet once a month and discuss a topic,” he said. “I'm looking for a place to do it.” Want to share WWII memories or get involved in reenacting? Call Kirby at 704-812-8996.
Mt Holly city council rezoning meeting held By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
The Mount Holly city council held a public hearing last week concerning a request by Charlotte-based Walton Development to rezone approximately 143 acres in the original River Park subdivision to a Conditional Use district to include Single family Residential as Multi-family duplex or townhome buldings and associated uses. The council did not act on the rezoning request at that time. The developer had submitted a revised site plant on Nov. 5 and city staff had not had time to study it before the council meeting. The issue could possibly come up for a vote at the council’s December 8 meeting. In 2012, Walton acquired 182 acres of land within the existing River Park Community. This includes 28 developed lots
and 143 acres of unplatted land. River Park is a community in Mount Holly and is home to 32 families. It was started, but never finished by a previous developer. Since acquiring River Park, Walton has invested in improvements in the community’s infrastructure and Homeowners Association, including completing the road infrastructure, storm water runoff repairs, landscaping, clubhouse improvements and streetscapes. Walton’s senior planning and development manager, Andy Rathke was at last week’s council meeting. Joining Rathke at the council meeting was Tedd Duncan, a senior associate with Stantec, a land planning and engineering firm and Walton’s consultants. Rathke remarked“Walton is currently working to design a master-plan Your prescription drug specialists! Home Health Care Supplies & Equipment
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for the property that respects the existing homeowners and lots, improves internal connectivity, and expands recreational and open space. We have been working together with the City of Mount Holly for the past two years and look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure that the River Park community is aligned with the City’s Strategic Vision
Plan and has the flexibility to offer diverse housing options to meet the demands of the housing market in the area.” City council members and Mayor Bryan Hough had some remarks for Rathke as well and they alluded to concerns over developers in the past, and the future of quality housing in Mount Holly. See REZONING, page 3
Belmont- Edwyn Lee Coffey, 82, 211 Oak Drive, formerly of 322 Eastw o o d Drive, Mount Holly, passed a w a y peacefully surrounded by his loving family members on Monday, November 10, 2014. He was born in Laboratory, Lincoln County, son of the late Pervy Lee Coffey and Flossie Angeline “Kaukee” Baker Coffey. He was preceded in death by his wife Susan Elizabeth Helton Coffey, a son Mark Edwyn Coffey, mother- and fatherin-law Avis Estelle Duckworth Helton and Kenneth Eugene Helton, and a brother-in-law Harold Helton. Mr. Coffey was a retired sales representative for Gerber Foods. He was a 56 year member of First Baptist Church in Mount Holly. In his youth, he was a member of Riverview Baptist Church in Lincolnton. He was a member of the Mount Holly Masonic Lodge #544 and Order of the Eastern Star. He was a charter member of the Vagabonds Travel Group. Mr. Coffey was a US Navy veteran where he was a Gunner’s Mate in the Korean War. He was loved by his entire family but most especially by his daughter. He is survived by his daughter Susan Diane Donaldson and husband Randy of Belmont; three grandchildren, Adam Donaldson and wife Amber of Belmont, Kelli Watts and husband Mike of Belmont and Haley Tucker and husband Chase of Mount Holly; four great grandchildren, Emma, Hannah, Nelli, and Jase. Nephew Hal Helton, nieces Cathy Teague and Cheryl Lineberger. Special loved ones Aunt “Nita” Juanita Coffey Dysart, Shawn Hyleman. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr. Coffey was held at 2pm
Thursday November 13, at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly with Dr. Rev. Kendell Cameron and Dr. Bob Winecoff officiating. The family received friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, 300 South Main Street, Mount Holly, NC 28120. Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.
Mark Taylor Dallas-Mark Wilson Taylor, 32 passed away suddenly November 14, 2014 from an automobile wreck in Dallas. Funeral service was at 4:00 pm, Sunday, November 16 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Visitation followed the service. Jerry Walton Gastonia – Jerry Dale Walton, 67 passed away peacefully on November 14, 2014 at the Robin Johnson House. Funeral service was at 3:00 pm, Monday, November 17 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. The family received friends prior to the service. Alene Jackson Gastonia – Alene Ashe Jackson, 91 passed away at her home November 13, 2014. Funeral service was at 2:00 pm, Sunday, November 16 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Visitation prior to the service. Interment was at Gaston Memorial Park with the releasing of the doves.
Belmont Police Department investigated By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
The City of Belmont has hired Huntersville-based U.S. ISS Agency, LLC to conduct an investigation into the police department. The move came after several former police employees lodged complaints concerning management in their exit interviews. According to city manager Barry Webb, the decision to hire ISS Agency came after he was made aware of the complaints via the human resources director. Since Belmont's PD is small, with only 35 officers, it was decided to do the investigation independently. Webb says the exit interview remarks did not contain anything of a criminal nature nor did they mention harassment. “There were a number of remarks from the various individuals covering different allegations relating to various conduct and management issues,” Webb said. “While there was nothing in the remarks that led to call for any criminal inves-
tigation, I would certainly say that they had to be of a serious enough nature to generate the need for an investigation of the nature we are conducting.” The investigation will take a couple more weeks to complete and cost the city around $15,000. Police Chief Charlie Franklin and Mayor Charlie Martin declined comment since the investigation is ongoing. According to Webb, The ISS Agency report itself will likely be confidential but any disciplinary action by the city will be available for perusal by citizens. “As an internal investigation focusing on personnel issues, the contents of the internal investigation report would not be a public
record,” Webb said. “However, if any disciplinary actions are taken as a result of the investigation, those actions would be public record. When the investigation is complete, I will be given a copy of the complete report based on all of the information gathered during the course of the process. It will then be my responsibility to review that information and determine if any disciplinary actions are warranted.” Prior to the investigation's start, the city sent a letter to police employees on Oct. 10. “To the staff of the Belmont Police Department: The Belmont City Council met in executive session October 6, 2014, and unanimously agreed to engage the
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Mount Holly City Council receives audited financial statement By Alan Hodge
alan.bannernews@gmail.com
The Mount Holly city council received the municipality's 2014 audited financial statement last week and everything looked good. The audit was done by Martin-Starnes & Associates, CPAs, P.A. City manager Danny Jackson gave credit where credit was due concerning the audit. “Obviously, I am elated to see that our financial audit has again yielded positive results,” Jackson said. “It's another testament to the collaborative effort that it takes to produce such positive results. Please know that as the city manager in Mount Holly I have stressed the importance of teamwork. In doing so I have also been one to recognize the players on the team. I want to thank the city council for its confidence in me and my teammates. I want to thank all of my staff for their assistance in implementing the necessary measures that result in such good audits. The rest of the city employees deserve a lot of credit for the city's success because they actually handle the day to day operations of the city. They take a lot of pride in their jobs and its manifested in our success. Last but certainly not least, the citizens of Mount Holly, both commercial and residential, are the heart and soul of the city's success. They are the ones that routinely pay their bills to the city and affect the city's finances in many positive ways.” The city's general fund balance for 2014 was pegged at $6,670,459- a $902,475 increase over 2013's figure of
$5,767,984. After deductions for non-spendable monies and stabilization by state statute, the available fund balance for 2014 was $5,893,735. This was an increase of $882,862 over the 2013 available fund balance of $5,010,873. The general fund summary for 2014 showed revenues of $10,593,380 and expenditures of $9,690,905. In 2013, those figures were $10,478,888 and $9,724,418, respectively. Ad valorem taxes formed 59 percent of Mount Holly 2014 revenues. They amounted to $6,217,916. Unrestricted intergovernmental revenues accounted for 26 percent of revenues with $2,747,041. Permits and fees added six percent with $658,339. Other revenues such as sales and services, investment earnings, other taxes and licenses, and restricted intergovernmental revenues chipped in nine percent. Mount Holly expenditures for 2014 were topped by public safety with 45 percent- $4,635,909. Transportation and environmental protection consumed 19 percent of revenues at $2,101,545. General government tallied 15 percent of revenues at $1,677,656. Other expenditures took 21 percent of general fund revenues. Martin-Starnes also recently presented the Belmont city council with a 2014 audit. Like Mount Holly, Belmont fiscal fortunes are generally sunny. For fiscal 2014, Belmont's general fund summary showed $8,982,188 in revenues and $9,368,992 in expenditures. Capital outlays added to Belmont's expenditures so $386,804 was taken from the city's fund balance to make up the difference. In 2013, the figures were $8,481,228 in
Belmont wellness program event City of Belmont employees gathered Friday at Stowe Park for a Wellness Field Day. The event saw participants walk laps, play bocce ball and cornhole, tug of war, and exercise on park equipment. Afterwards, everyone gathered at the picnic shelter for a healthy lunch of grilled chicken sandwiches from Glenway Premium Pub, fruit, and
baked goods. The day was designed to instill healthy habits in the workers. Those that took part had the chance to sign a commitment letter promising to exercise, have preventive checks such as an annual physical, and avoid habits like smoking. The city also plans to launch a Lunch and Learn wellness series in the near future.
revenues and $8,449,121 in expenditures. Ad valorem taxes brought in $5,627,775 to Belmont's revenues in 2014. This was up from 2013's figure of $5,365,736.Unrestricted intergovernmental revenues accounted for $2,455,175 of Belmont's cash flow. Restricted intergovernmental revenues were $350,941. Public safety took $3,998,893 out of Belmont's purse for 2014. Transportation accounted for $1,335,463 in expenditures. General government expenses amounted to $1,351,761.
REZONING From page 2 Councilman Jim Hope told Rathke he needed specifics on what the townhomes would look like if the rezoning was approved. Duncan told the council that the builder of the townhomes had not yet been chosen. Councilman Jason Gowen had this to say about River Park in particular and housing development overall in Mount Holly. “In general, the land has been allocated and the majority of the infrastructure is in place so I hope to see the development actually developed,” Gowen said. “On a larger scale, I believe our goal as a board is to see the type of high quality upscale development that was originally envisioned when the project was approved in 2007. The size and scope of this project is as important now as it was at inception due to its proximity relative to our revitalized downtown so we absolutely must get the details correct. As we see more and more interest in development here, my hope is that all future projects draw people that will be great neighbors and contributors to the community. We want to attract individuals and families that value education and community while embracing the deep history embedded in our small town culture.”
Photo by Alan Hodge Belmont public works employees and Mayor Charlie Martin (red shirt) enjoyed cornhole at the city's Wellness Field Day.
Photo by Alan Hodge Belmont city clerk Deborah Brown (left) leads co-workers around the Stowe Park track at Friday's Wellness Field Day.
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Fellowship & Faith
Church Service Directory MT. HOLLY Bethel Baptist Church NC Highway 273 704-827-9846 Burge Memorial Methodist Church 312 W. Glendale Ave. 704-827-2726 Catawba Heights Church of God 122 Tomberlin Rd. 704-827-4225 Cbc-Memorial Apostolic 230 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-0968 Chapel Baptist Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-5526
Goshen Free Will Baptist Church 1300 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-3076 Grace Baptist Church 300 Westland Farm Rd. 704-827-8600 Harvest Time Church of God 707 Westland Farm Rd. 704-822-8033 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 3717 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-3939 Jehovah’s Witnesses 1736 Kelly Rd. 704-263-0199
Community Christian Fellow-
Lighthouse Full Gospel Church 530 N. Hawthorne St. 704-827-1442
ship 2560 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-5881
Living Witness Ministries 541 Costner St. 704-827-0004
Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 110 S. Main St. 704-827-4751
Family Worship Center 1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656 First Baptist Church-Mt. Holly 300 S. Main St. 704-827-2481 First Free Will Baptist Church 841 Noles Dr. 704-827-7461 First Presbyterian Church 133 S. Main St. 704-827-0521 First United Methodist Church 140 N. Main St. 704-827-4855
Macedonia Baptist Church 1951 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-9224 Mt. Holly Church of God 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596 Mt. Holly Noles Baptist Church Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-2013 Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201
Mt. Sinai Baptist Church 339 S. Hawthorne St. 704-827-4320 New Covenant United Methodist 14514 Lucian Riverbend Hwy. 704-827-4468 New Providence Baptist Church 1104 Old NC 27 Hwy. 704-827-0822
Featured Church of the Week
North Main Baptist Church 1304 N. Main St. 704-827-6141
Unity Baptist Church
Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954
Shiloh Ame Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826
Tuckaseegee Baptist Church 511 Tuckaseege Rd. 704-827-4301
Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly 826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999
Springfield Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-820-0193
Way of the Cross Baptist
Ridgeview Baptist Church 105 Pine Rd. 704-827-3856
St. Anthony of Padua Tradi-
Second Baptist Church 740 Rankin Ave. 704-827-5181
Church 238 Lanier Ave. 704-827-8111
tional Catholic Church 108 Horseshoe Bend Beach Rd. 704-827-8676
Wesley Chapel Holiness Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-1993
St. Paul FHB Church 1529 Old Hwy 27 Rd. 704-827-5851
Westview Presbyterian Church 1020 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-2026
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Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Yours, Ours, Others
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Quote of the week
“Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.”
- Abraham Lincoln
Christmas shows are always fun Halloween has passed and hopefully everyone brushed their teeth afterwards or at least the ones they wanted to keep from candy decay. Thanksgiving is up next in the holiday hit parade so get ready for some gorging and belt loosening. But the 700 pound gorilla in the room is not far behind. Ya’ll know what I meanChristmas. Every year Sharon and I go to a Christmas show in a big place across the river on Independence Boo-levard in the Queen City. There we join tens of thousands of other Santa worshippers who shuffle and gawk at the cornucopia of eats and products being offered for sale. It is totally mind boggling. It is sensory overload. It is a singularly sensational scene. The experience begins in the parking lot. Not only is finding a spot a challenge in the sea of mommy vans and SUVs there, it continues with the sight of heavy masses of mostly ladies marching towards the show entrance. Many have large bags with them ready for filling with “stuff”. Many are clad in the current fashion of jeans tucked into boots that look like they once belonged to Hermann Goering. This is topped by a baggy sweater. The clop, clop, clop of the boot heels on the pavement beats a tattoo of determination as the hordes head for the Santa shindig. Once the entry doors have been achieved, a lengthy conga line can be observed at the ticket booth. Tickets in hand, the next “Q” is at the turnstiles where several elderly gents patiently take the tabs and return the stubs time and time again. Now that entry has been
gained to the holy of ho ho ho holies, the fun begins. First of all, prepare to be carried along by the mob. Do not try to fight it. The jostling pack moves with a singular purpose- to see every doodad and jimcrack on display. Notice the wild-eyed, mesmerized look on every face. See the inner child crying out “I want that!” But alas, the hard reality of you can’t always get what you want but if you try sometimes you get what you need applies at the Christmas show as well. Now and then a gap will appear in the crowd and this is your chance to make a break and move ahead a bit. But oh oh, soon enough you run into small knots of folks standing directly in the middle of the aisle yakking about nothing important and creating a human traffic jam. Scowls cast their way are wasted. One of the most interesting booths of the Christmas show is the wine sampling area. This venue features the wares from a number of vintners and also offers free samples in little plastic cups. Even though the “tastes” are small, if you start at one end of the bar and get a swig from each bottle by the time you get to the other end that works out to several dozen sips and a nice glow to go along with your shopping. Still in the food and beverage arena, there is usually a booth set up by a wellknown pimento cheese factory. They too offer samples of their product smeared on crackers. It is a tradition that Sharon and I take our place at the ‘minner cheese trough and join the rest of the cracker cravers crunching down on the savory goodness. But unlike most of the other freeloaders we
Dear Editor: I write this open letter to the Mount Holly City Council after the 11/10/14 council meeting. First, I should preface my comments that I believe the Council meeting was well-run and well-intended. The Councilpersons clearly act with the interests of the community when they deliberate the business before them and appropriately consider input from town staff and citizens that speak. One of the agenda items was a public hearing to discuss rezoning of 143 acres in the River Park Subdivision; and the developer, Walton Development and Management, represented the request. The changes requested were represented to accommodate varying market forces. Council took what I thought was a hardline approach with the developer claiming to have past experience with other developers that cause them to be suspect of any developer’s abilities to deliver what is promised. And as a resident of Mount Holly, I do appreciate that dedication to the town’s best interests. What the council communicated to the developer is that River Park is strategically important to the town and council wanted to clearly communicate the desire to: (a) provide upscale housing options, (b) provide high-quality construction, and (c) approve architectural diagrams of what the developer proposes. It felt to me like the Council (and staff) desired to negotiate the best quality product and then lock-in that negotiated product to protect the integrity of the proposed development. I like the way they think. I couldn’t help but to think about what the town can do to facilitate this high-quality mandate. I started to think about the
Alan Hodge always buy at least a couple of containers of the cheesy treat and attack it in force as soon as we get home. Another booth we stop at each year is operated by a guy selling stuff with an ancient Egypt theme. Now I know that Santa Claus and Tutankamun are about as far apart as east from west, but I confess a fascination with stuff from the land of camels and pyramids and Sharon does too, in fact she told me once she was reincarnated from an ancient Egyptian woman and I believe it. So...each year we say hey to the Egyptian guy and Sharon buys a cartouche to add to her collection. Salami, salami, baloney. Needless to say, toys galore are available at the Christmas show. Some of the stuff is high dollar. One year we were shuffling along at the show and up ahead heard uproarious laughter and squeals coming from a group of ladies. The crowd parted like the Red Sea before Moses and all at once a motorized pony carrying a 40-something year old woman on its fake fur back came rocking along. She was delirious with glee and her friends were falling on the floor guffawing at the scene. Anyway, Christmas shows are always fun and that special holiday will be here before you know it so get going with your gift getting unless you want the crowds to leave you in the dust.
Strategic Vision Plan adopted in 2008 which defined high-quality improvements and development the town would make. And I thought about the Town Manager’s comments this month in the newsletter which describes some lack of progress over the last six years due to the market forces related to the economic crash; and further explained that Council will review the Strategic Vision Plan to determine what parts of it may be “incompatible” in today’s market. I found it a little ironic that Council will take a hardline position with a developer wanting to improve Mount Holly while the Strategic Vision Plan flounders. (For example, there might not be any budgeted improvements scheduled for next year.) I found it interesting to see that Council will fight hard to insist others make quality improvements with some kind of accountability while pressing the “reset” button on the adopted Strategic Vision Plan. And I wonder how Council thinks developers would want to invest in high-quality properties off North Main Street – a street that is in disrepair, utilitarian, and increasingly loaded with freight traffic to the manufacturing facilities in the north. Perhaps this is a mutual opportunity where Council should honor their adopted and published development commitments while at the same time encouraging others performing new development to follow suit. Today’s opportunistic economy is not the time for a bait-and-switch – from the town or any development within it. Sincerely, Scott Lilly 420 North Main Street Mount Holly
Veterans Should Have Health Coverage This Veteran’s Day we honored those who serve and have served our country. Veterans put their lives on the line to protect our independence, our freedom, and all the rights we hold dear. Now is the time to fight for them by ensuring they have access to health coverage. Nationally, one in 10 veterans are without health insurance and do not use Veterans Administration healthcare. Nearly a million veterans and their spouses have incomes low enough to qualify for Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Over 280,000 veterans and
nearly 100,000 spouses of veterans would qualify for expanded benefits but reside in states that have chosen not to expand Medicaid. This is what is known as the “coverage gap” – hardworking people without employer-sponsored health insurance and living in states that are denying them access to health care coverage. States that have chosen not to take advantage of Medicaid coverage for working adults with low incomes - 23 states in all - have left hundreds of millions of dollars on the table to pay for health care in other states
Sidewalk Survey Q: What are you thankful for this upcoming holiday season?
while denying access to health care for tens of thousands of friends, neighbors and family members, including thousands of veterans, close to home. Our veterans have kept our nation safe and secure. Veteran’s Day serves as a reminder of the debt we owe all our veterans. One way we can help repay that debt is to ensure that all veterans have access to health care coverage. By Jon Bailey, jonb@cfra. org, Center for Rural Affairs
We welcome your comments Send your Letter to the Editor to:
The Banner News PO BOX 589 Belmont NC 28012 or email: alan.banner.news@gmail.com Ruby Buchanan
Helen McDermott
Wade Hardison
James Ryder
Thankful to be a Christian, alive and well, thank God for America.
(Helen is 98 years old) Thankful for family and good health.
Thankful for family and friends and the good old USA.
Thankful for family, friends, and lots of food.
BannerNews Published every Wednesday Periodicals postage at Belmont, NC 28012 USPS 049-700 by CF Media Postmaster, send address changes to: P. O. Box 769, Kings Mountain NC 28086 Phone (704) 825-0580 • Fax (704) 825-0894 Office:128-C N. Main St. • Belmont, NC 28012
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Enter our 2014 Pigskin Picks Football Contest for a Chance To Win $50 Games are listed in each advertisement. Pick the winner and write that team by the corresponding number on the entry blank below. Drop the entry blank by the office in Kings Mountain, Cherryville or Belmont or send by mail for delivery by Friday at 5pm.
Last Week’s Winner was ...
Eddie Ingram of Belmont Eddie only missed 2.
Take a step back in time to a good, old fashioned store...
Specialty Sodas ~ Glass Bottle Drinks Ice Cream ~ Greeting Cards ~ Novelty Gifts
1. West Rowan vs. crest
Inc. Tire
t. kee S o r e in . Ch 227 S s Mounta g 93 Kin 39.01 704.7
Congratulations to JC Postell of Gastonia, our 11-05 winner! JC is pictured with Amanda and Skylar Dymock.
Week of November 21
Name___________________________
1.______________________________ 2. _____________________________ 3.______________________________ 4.______________________________ 5.______________________________ 6.______________________________ 7.______________________________ 8.______________________________ 9.______________________________ 10._____________________________ 11._____________________________ 12._____________________________ 13._____________________________ 14._____________________________
Address_________________________ _______________________________ Phone__________________________ Tiebreaker: South Point vs. Concord
Total number of points in the game___ Clip and Mail to: Pigskin Picks Football Contest, The Kings Mountain Herald, PO Box 769, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. All entries must be received by mail at The Herald office no later than Friday. Or they may be taken to The Eagle office, 107 1/2 E. Main Street, Cherryville; The BannerNews office, 128-C N. Main St., Belmont; or The Kings Mountain Herald office, 700 E. Gold Street, Kings Mountain no later than 5 p.m. on Friday.
2. Pisgah vs. forestview
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3. South Point vs. Concord
1516 N. Cansler St. Kings Mountain
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Jamie Carrigan 704-739-5116
Judy B. Beam, Administrator, Dr. T.R. White, Medical Director
10. virginia tech vs. wake forest 7. louisville vs. notre dame
11. charlotte vs. morehead state
C & C Heating & Cooling Parker’s BP Amoco
Your local
expert
4. Winston-salem carver vs. shelby
Scott Keuthan Manager
140 N. Main St., Belmont NC phone 704.825.1116 fax 704.825.1121 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-4pm www.belmontsurpriseme.com
Gas • Tires • Batteries • Service
Poochie Dotson Owner
Owner & Operator:
Bobby Childers
12. tulane vs. east carolina
502 York Rd. Kings Mountain
NC# 9507
911 East Church Street • Cherryville, NC
Open 24 Hours a Day - 7 Days a Week! Thank you for your business
704-739-1043 8. syracuse vs. pittsburgh
5. starmount vs. bessemer city 6. pine lake prep vs. thomas jefferson
9. miami vs. virginia
Contest Rules 1. The games listed by number in each advertisement correspond to the lines in the entry blank above. Some advertisements may contain more than one game. Simply write on the corresponding lines in the entry blank which team you think will win. 2. At the bottom of the entry blank is a Tiebreaker. In the space indicated, guess the total combined number of points that will be scored by both teams in that game. 3. A $50 prize will be awarded to the entrant (one winner only from combination of the Herald, Eagle, and Banner News) with the most correct predictions. In the event of ties, the tiebreaker will be used to decide the winning entrant. In the event the tiebreaker does not break the tie, the prize will be split. 4. In the event games are postponed, they will only count in that week’s contest if they are played within that week’s contest period. The contest period cover games through Friday and Saturday. 5. Entries may be mailed to The Kings Mountain Herald at PO Box 769, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
13. gardner-webb vs. monmouth 14. boston college vs. florida state
if postmarked no later than 5 p.m. on Friday or brought by The Eagle office at 107 1/2 E. Main Street, Cherryville; The Herald office at 700 E. Gold Street, Kings Mountain; or The Bannernews office at 128C N. Main St., Belmont, no later than Friday at 5 p.m. 6. Limit one entry per person, per envelope. Must be 18 years old to enter. All entries must be on blanks clipped from The Eagle, The Banner News or The Herald. No photocopied entries will be accepted. 7. No purchase necessary. Stop by one of our offices to clip out an official entry blank. 8. All entries become the property of Community First Media 9. Winners will be contacted as soon as the contest is judged and prize money may be picked up at our Kings Mountain office located at 700 E. Gold St., Kings Mountain NC 28086. 10. Employees of Community First Media and their families are ineligible. 11. All judges decisions are final.
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Wednesday, November 19, 2014
South Point pushes past Foard Tigers 28-12 By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com
Little by little the South Point Red Raiders have been building momentum for the playoffs. Coach Mickey Lineberger has said all along that he wanted his team to peak late in the season. By all accounts that is what’s happening as the Raiders finished the regular season on a three game winning streak where they utterly dominated the opposition. When the playoffs were announced the Red Raiders scored a home game against Catawba County’s Fred T. Foard Tigers. The Tigers were billed as an offensive powerhouse averaging over 30 points a game. They could pass and run. But none of that mattered. South Point came through. In a solid display of playoff caliber football the Red Raiders jumped out to an early lead and kept Foard in check winning 28-12. In classic South Point style the Red Raiders set the tone with a punishing running attack. Three Red Raiders cracked the 100 yard mark against the Tigers. Fullback Ryland Etherton led all runners with 147 yards, QB Jaquan Brooks had 140 and wing back Tanner Muse had 120 yards off 8 car-
Red Raider Tanner Muse streaks down the field in Friday’s game.
Jaquan Brooks, #5, sees daylight. Photos by Lydia Julen
ries. Against the Tigers, Etherton, Brooks and Muse would all score as well. Etherton had two TD’s. Muse and Brooks had one each. With the offense doing it’s part it was up to the defense to counter Foard’s tough QB Matt Williams. The Red Raider’s “D” did just that. Williams wasn’t stopped but his ability to make the big play was seriously curtailed. The South Point defense limited the Tigers offense to only 282 yards in total offense. Foard had 162 yards on the ground and 120 through the air. the Red Raider defense also scooped up two Foard fumbles. This week the bar is being raised higher. South Point will travel to Concord and take on the Spiders. The Spiders are coming off a huge 60-12 victory over Garinger. South Point Red Raiders 28 Fred T. Foard Tigers 12
Fred T. Foard South Point
1 2 3 4 Final 0 6 0 6 — 12 7 714 0 — 28
South Point High’s Jaquan Brooks breaks for another gain against Fred T. Foard High in Friday’s game.
Warriors fall in first round By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com
Everyone in East Gaston was happy to see the Warriors make the playoff in their second year since returning to the Big South Conference. But when the playoff brackets were announced for this year’s NCSHAA 3A playoffs Warrior fans weren’t as thrilled. The Warriors were the #13 seed. East Gaston found themselves faced off against the #4 seed Forestview Jaguars. Normally that would be no big deal except that Forestview had pounded the Warriors 34-0 the week before. But the luck of the draw still didn’t daunt a Warrior team that has found a way to get things done. Coach Sean Joyce kept his team plugging. But EG just didn’t have enough weapons and talent to counter the dominating Jaguars. Forestview beat East Gaston 48-14. In the early going things looked like they could be exciting. Down 13-0 in the 1st Quarter Warrior QB Alex Adams hit speedster Austin Woods on a 36 yard strike. With the score 13-7 it looked like East Gaston was going
to give Forestview a fight. Then the bottom fell out. On the subsequent kick off the Jaguars return team torched the Warriors with a 76 yard TD sprint. the Jags would score three more times before East Gaston was able to counter again. In the 4th quarter Tyler Spurling pulled the ball in from the 1. Alex Adams was the Warriors top offensive performer. He led the team in rushing and passing. With this years season over the Warriors can hang their head high. Even though they lost they played tough. 2014 was also a good year for EG fans, students and players alike. This season the Warrior program was able to establish themselves as solid contenders in the Big South.
South Point #44 Tyler Hall drags down his opponent.
Forestview Jaguars 48 East Gaston Warriors 14 1 2 3 4 Final East Gaston 7 0 0 7 — 14 Forestview 20 21 7 0 — 48
Thanksgiving Run is 4th annual run for BCO The 4th annual “Run for the BCO” will take place Thursday, Nov. 27 starting at 8:00am at Walk and Run Belmont. This annual event raises money for the Belmont Community Organization relief agency. The BCO is a local non profit organization that helps the community with food, clothing, household goods, and if funds are available, with bills. It is supported by donations from individuals and local business. “This super day is open to any and all,” said organizer Chad Nelson. “Please bring your kids, your family, your dogs, etc. This invitation is also open on Facebook, so
please forward the invite to your friends and family. “This year, Plan.It.Design/Kine’s Family has graciously donated medals for Children and ‘first time finishers.’ This year as always, we’re planning some fun drawings, raffles, etc with our sponsors for some really exciting stuff.” The run is proudly sponsored by Walk and Run Belmont, Gregory Chiropractic, Franklin Signs and Graphics, Stanton Enterprise Inc, Simply Yoga of Belmont, Live FIT Health Club, Plan.It Design LLC, Radco Construction, Southeast Chiropractic, About
Stuart Cramer Storm Player of the Week
Face Bootcamp, The String Bean Market and Deli, Cougar Inc., and Meese Jewelry. There is no up front regis- John Steele, #70, hauls in a Foard runner. tration. Donations and waivers are available at Walk and Run Finish at Walk and Run Belmont. in advance or on Facebook page and will “In three years the event has raised nearly be handled Thursday morning. Your reg- $20,000 all going directly to the BCO,” said istration is a donation in any amount you Nelson. choose. Checks strongly preferred. Over 500 For sponsorship or volunteer opportuattended last year. nities call 704-591-4020 or email CHADWalkers start at 8:15am, Runners start at NELSON25@HOTMAIL.com or stop by 8:30am. Participants will follow the “Girls Walk and Run Belmont. On The Run” course same as last year. Start/
East Gaston Warriors
South Point Red Raiders Player of the Week
Player of the Week
Alex Adams Football
Jaylen Rocquemore
Ryland Etherton Football
Football Sponsored by:
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Bring this ad in for 10% OFF your pet’s first visit (new clients only, $50 minimum transaction)
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210 Park St., Belmont • 704.825.9861 Equal Credit Opportunity Lender
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Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Page 7
■ BUSINESS
Red Chair Salon opens with style The celebration went into the night, and more than 200 Chamber members, friends, customers and others came out for the grand opening at the Red Chair Salon, 38 E. Woodrow Avenue in Belmont on Nov. 6. A Chamber ribbon-cutting kicked off the event. Brilliant colors inside the renovated former residence were a hit, as were refreshments provided by H&M Catering, floral arrangements by Jean’s Flowers, a chocolate truffles bar, free chair massages, discount specials and great prizes. Red Chair team members assisting with the ribbon-cutting are, from the left, Meghan Phinney, Ashlea Heavner, Ashley Marder, owner Sheila Villada, Michelle Culberson and Chris McDade. Also on the front row are Toni Covington, Geanina Neal, Diane Ramirez and Jose Villada. Holding the ribbon are ActionCoach Tony Marder (right) and Chamber President Ted Hall. For more on the Red Chair Salon, call 704.829.8218. (Montcross Area Chamber photo)
Gaston County November calendar of events There are plenty of entertainment options in Gaston County during November- many of them are free. Free- November 20 – “Sensory Story Time” - Gaston County Public Library – 1555 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia 4:00PM An educational and interactive program with an emphasis on families with people living with autism, sensory challenges, or other special needs. One one-hour event for families. . For more information please contact Paul Ward – Assistant Library Director at 704-868-2174 Ext. 102 or www.gastonlibrary.org. Free-November 20 – “Hunger Games: Real or Not Real?” – Gaston County Public Library – 1555 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia 4:00PM Could it happen? Map the future world of Panem using library reference and online resources. One one-hour event for teens. For more information please contact Paul Ward – Assistant Library Director at 704-868-2174 Ext. 102 or www.gastonlibrary.org. November 21 thru December 31 – “Holidays at the Garden” – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Rd., Belmont 12:00PM-9:00PM NOTE: Garden will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 5:00PM-9:00PM and closed Christmas Day / The beauty of nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a special holiday this year at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Our contemporary, yet elegant, lighting display will brighten your holidays and our fire pit will keep you and your loved ones warm. Don’t miss the new displays of Lost Hollow or traditional favorites, including the Orchid Tree, one-of-a-kind train displays, visits from Santa and nature based family crafts. The Holiday tradition continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. For more details call 704-8254490 or visit www.DSBG.org. November 21 – “Festa della Strata” – Grand Hall, Mt. Holly – 7:00PM -10:00PM, City of Mount Holly, Municipal Complex, 400 East Central Ave. For an evening of fun, great food and lively music. This is an opportunity to meet the “Italian Mammas”. Space is limited so call Holy Angels Foundation to reserve your tickets – 704-825-4161. November 22 – “Grazie Mille Gala” – Grand Hall, Mt. Holly – 6:00PM – 11:00PM, City of Mount Holly, Municipal Complex, 400 East Central Ave. The “Italian Mammas” are coming to NC to share their love of good food and their recipes with us to enjoy during the “Grazie Mille Gala”. Tickets are going fast – so if you would like to be a part of this special evening – call Holy
Angels Foundation - 704-825-4161. November 22 – “Harvest Day” – Schiele Museum, 10:00AM-4:00PM Join in for our 40th Annual Harvest Day Celebration – the 18th century version of our contemporary Thanksgiving. Visit the Backcountry Farm as skilled interpreter’s labor by open hearth and outdoor fires roasting, baking, and stewing a “Grand Fare” of traditional delights. Watch as hunters make ready their firearms while swapping stories of the “ones that got away”. For more details call 704866-6923 or visit www.schielemuseum.org. Free-November 29 – “Inaugural Christmas Town USA 5K” – William J. Pharr Family YMCA, 6:30PM-10:00PM. The 1 mile Fun Walk begins at 6:00PM The YMCA is located at 208 Main Street in McAdenville. Celebrate the kick-off of ChristmasTown USA with a festive 5K under the lights. Co-organized with the McAdenville Women’s Club, the race will start at the J.M. Carstarphen Bridge and end at Legacy Park in McAdenville. Proceeds benefit the Pharr Family YMCA & McAdenville Women’s Club. For more details contact Ben Oeser at 704-824-1131 or boeser@gastonymca.org, you may also contact Race Director Steve D’Avria at steve@ gastonymca.org.
The Belmont Tuesday Afternoon Book Club met at the Belmont Historical Society Museum on Oct. 14 for its monthly gathering. Dressed in colonial garb, Dan Seufert, a retired teacher and historian, seen with book club president Emily Smith, presented a first person program on Major William Chronicle. The Historical Society Museum sits on ground on E. Catawba Ave. that was originally owned by Major Chronicle. He was killed leading his troops, the South Fork Boys, at the Battle of Kings Mountain on Oct. 7, 1780. The textile mill near the museum was named for Chronicle. Contributed Photo
■ POLICE Nov. 10: Markeze Carvario Howard, drug violations sell deliver marijuana, manufacture marijuana, DWLR, expired registration plate, arrested by Officer K. Seigler, 51 Flowers Ct. Apt. 37. Nov. 11: Patricia Coley Piercy, shoplifting, changing price tags, arrested by Officer F. Bollinger, Jr., 701 Hawley Ave. Nov. 12: Shakira Mack Davis, assault with deadly weapon, criminal damage to property, arrested by Officer K. Seigler, 317 ½ Church St.. Nov. 13: Christopher Paul Mahoney, all other offenses, arrested by Officer C. Falls, 107 Keener Blvd. Nov. 14: Shakira Mack Davis, profane language on a public street or highway, arrested by Officer M. Stroupe, Church St. at Sixth St. Nov. 14: John Cole Gaston, order for arrest, arrested by Officer B. Pickert, Parkdale Rd. at Keener Blvd. Nov. 15: Gordon Darel Arnold II, assault on a female, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, 201 Chronicle St. Nov.15: Naquala Shanta Evans, order for arrest, arrested by Officer A. Anderson, PVA Auto Zone.
On November 12, the Gaston County Police Department Animal Control Division removed the carbon monoxide gas chamber from the Animal Shelter. After its removal, the gas chamber was transported to Webb Metals where it was destroyed. The Animal Control Division has completely converted to intravenous methods of euthanasia. The gas chamber had not been used since January. For further information contact Captain W.S. Melton, Jr. Interim Administrator of the Animal Shelter at 704-866-3310. Contributed Photo
Classified Ads Homes for Sale/Rent JUST UPDATED BRICK HOUSE for RENT – 3 BR, 1 BA with carport. $775.00/ mth. + deposit. Call: 803-322-0099. (11/19) MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTAIN-Prices starting at $100/week. Call 704-7394417 or (evening) 704-7391425. (tfn)
Land for Sale LOT FOR SALE - 2.75 acres at 110 Ezra Road in Kings Mountain. Reduced price $26,500 negotiable. Call 828-734-5321 or 828-5501072. (11/19 & 26) LOTS IN GASTON, CLEVELAND, RUTHERFORD and CHEROKEE CO., some with water & septic. Credit no problem, owner will finance with low DP. Call Bryant Realty at 704567-9836 or www.bryantrealty.org. (11/05,12,19 & 26)
Public Sale NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE -At the American Legion Storage Building, 215 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021: Debra Wells, Unit #26, Nov. 28, at 1 p.m. (11/19 & 26)
Wanted to Buy
J. Johnson Sales, Forest City. 828-245-5895. (tfn) TRAILERS: YEAR END Blow Out Sale. New 5x8, $499. Cargo box trailer, $1395. Fifty trailers need to go! J. Johnson Sales, 828-245-5895. (tfn) WE BUY GOOD running trucks, cars, tractors, guns, trailers. 828-551-7176. (tfn)
Yard Sale CASH ON THE SPOT! Will buy tools, riding lawn mowers or building full of merchandise, pictures or anything of value. Will also buy musical instruments. Call: 704-3000827 or 704-300-7676. (11/19)
Misc. for Sale CHRISTMAS SALE at 125 Moonlight Way, Belmont. Sat., Nov. 22th 8 am – Until. Decorations, lights, garland, artificial trees, Santa’s, ornaments, village houses and much more. (11/19) STORAGE BUILDINGS: No credit check, no security deposit. Free delivery, free set.
KM YARD SALE -104 Jason Dr., Sat., Nov. 22nd at 8 am – Until. New Queen Sleigh Bed, Cabinet with glass doors and misc. items. KM YARD SALE/ESTATE SALE – Sat., Nov. 22nd, 8 am – 2 pm. 206 Catherine St, Furniture, Appliances, Christmas Decorations, Toys and Household items.
Dedicated Operation. Swing Transport seeks Drivers at Harrisburg & Salisbury facilities. No-Touch, Great Weekly Pay, BeneÀts! CDL-A, 2yrs Exp.: 855-979-4621
Legal EXECUTOR’S NOTICE Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Robert Bailey Suggs, III, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased, to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2150 Country Club Road, Suite 160, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27104, on or before the 29th day of January, 2015, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 29th at day of October. Robert B. Suggs, IV, Executor of the ESTATE of Robert B. Suggs, III Kangur & Porter, LLP Attorneys at Law 2150 Country Club Road Suite 160 Winston Salem, NC 27104 BN10585 (10/29, 11/05,12 &19, 2014)
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Velsa Louise Morris West, AKA Velsa Morris West, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased, to exhibit them to the undersigned at 120 Midwood Lane, Belmont, NC 28012, on or before the 5th day of February, 2015, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 5th at day of November. Barry Dalton West, Executor of the ESTATE of Velsa Louise Morris West, AKA Velsa Morris West 120 Midwood Lane Belmont, NC 28012 BN10586 (11/05,12,19&26, 2014)
Classified Deadline Friday 3 PM
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Wednesday, November 19, 2014
â– SCHOOL
Belmont middle school School transportation employees names students of month work to ensure student safety
Belmont Middle School 6th grade Students of the Month September 2014.
Belmont Middle School 7th grade Students of the Month September 2014
Long before the first classroom lessons begin each school day, Gaston County Schools’ buses are on the road. Each morning and afternoon, they transport 16,000 children to and from school and travel a total of 12,000 miles. In the evenings, the buses are running again, carrying sports teams, march- Bus transportation department shop foreman Sammy Thompson ing bands and (left) and lead mechanic Ricky Penland are part of the dedicated c h e e r l e a d e r s group of bus drivers, mechanics, and transportation employees around the who go the extra mile to ensure students are safe while on the county and school bus. across the state. Gaston Schools photo And from 5:30 a.m. when the first yellow in mind. buses roll out until late at night when the “You’ve always got to think about final activity buses return, Ricky Penland that,� he said. Thompson agreed. and Sammy Thompson are on call. “It’s not just a regular vehicle. You’re Thompson, the shop foreman for the transporting 60 children,� said ThompGCS Transportation Department, and son. “It’s a big responsibility, so you have Penland, the lead mechanic, are part of a to keep safety at the top of the list at all small group of men responsible for keeping times.� school buses running and children safe. Both Penland and Thompson have In their daily shift work, the departhelped to maintain Gaston County’s record ment’s seven mechanics must maintain and as one of the safest school bus fleets in the inspect a fleet of 435 vehicles: 247 yellow state. There have been no major accidents buses, 48 white activity buses, and 140 in the department’s 46-year history, and fleet vehicles such as repair trucks, vans the fleet was named one of the top 10 in and food service trucks. In addition to this, the nation in 2005. they are on call and ready to travel, whenPenland has been with the transportaever and wherever they’re needed. tion department for nearly 10 years, and “When the lights go off here, our jobs Thompson is in his twelfth year with Gasdon’t end. It’s still ongoing because of ton County Schools. sports and other activities,� said Paul Wil“Everyone in the transportation departliams, GCS transportation director. “The ment is conscientious about the main goal work is 24/7. That’s the life of a route me– to keep the students safe back and forth chanic. You could be in the shower or in to school,� Thompson said. the choir at church singing and get a call.� Williams, the transportation director, For example, Penland was called at 9:00 said Penland and Thompson play an imp.m. on a recent Friday. A bus full of band portant role in school bus safety. students had broken down near Maiden. “I’m so proud of what our bus drivers Penland drove the 25 miles there, replaced and transportation department employthe battery and drove the bus back into ees do every day,� he said. “They are Gastonia. hard-working and dedicated. They’re sinPenland explained that whether it’s a cere in what they do to make sure students late-night call, daily maintenance work or are safe when they are on our buses. We’re the monthly inspection done for each bus, very fortunate to have them.� he keeps the students’ and drivers’ safety
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Belmont Middle School 8th grade Students of the Month September 2014 Contributed photos
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