Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 1B
South Point High School
Class of 2013
Clayton says “Take it one day at a time.” By Alan Hodge Alan.bannernews@gmail.com
If there are Renaissance men who have a wide range of interests and accomplishments, then South Point High graduating senior Natalee Clayton qualifies as a Renaissance woman. The daughter of Lee and Donna Clayton, Natalee leaves South Point with a 4.95 grade point average and a heaping helping of accolades and accomplishments ranging from the classroom, to the pool, to field music. However, just because she’s got a four-page resumé doesn’t mean Natalee is all about “me”, she’s also been involved in a variety of charitable causes that give back to the community. Much of Natalee’s life, on and off the campus at South Point, has revolved around music. “Ever since I was little I’ve loved all types of music,” she said. “I don’t have any favorite genre, I just soak it all up.” That fondness for music led her to a post in the South Point marching band where she was drum major this year. Not only that, but she also organized, and carried out a personal project with the Gaston County Junior League and Belmont Middle School that saw funds raised and donated to the BMS band program. Natalee credits her BMS music teacher Carrie Lineberger with helping guide her through the world of notes. “When I was a student there, Mrs. Lineberger helped me grow musically,” she said. Overall, she thinks being in the school band has been a lot more than leading the group or playing the flute– her instrument of choice. “Band has been a lot of hard work,” Natalee said. “But it taught me the importance of persevering which helped me in my classroom work.” Natalee also excels at sports, espe-
South Point High School Graduation will take place June 8, at 9am in Lineberger Stadium.
Graduates are to report to the stadium by 7:45 am.
Contributed Photo
South Point High’s Natalee Clayton is a multi-talented student who is at home in the marching band, the classroom, or the swimming pool. She plans to study nuclear pharmacy at Wingate University. cially swimming. She was a member of the Big South All Conference swim team, took part in several NCHSAA Regional swim meets, was named to the NCHSAA Academic Scholar-Athlete team, and took the first place medal for the 400 Free relay at the Big South Conference meet.
“I started swimming when I was six years old,” Natalee said. “The pool is where I go to relax.” In addition to the pool, she also hits the golf links and played on the South Point team in contests that included the NCHSAA Ladies’ State Tournament and the Big South Conference Ladies’ Tour-
nament. Academically, Natalee is a powerhouse with many awards honors to her name including being nominated for the NC Governor’s School several times, being selected for the Summer Ventures in Science and Math Program at ASU, selection for Clemson University’s Challenge for Academically Talented Students, being named South Point’s Top Scholar for two years, and being a Duke University TIP program participant, being a member of the NC Student Academy of Science, to name a few. As her work with the BMS band project proved, Natalee is a giving soul who takes time out of her busy schedule to help others. Performance in this parameter includes volunteering for a variety of causes including the Feed the Children program, raising money for Christmas gifts for kids at Catawba Heights Elementary, collecting funds for the Super Bowl of Caring, painting and repairing music stands at BMS, volunteering at Holy Angels, and making Build-A-Bears for hospital pediatric patients. So, what would a young lady with Natalee’s background choose for a career after graduating from South Point? The answer might sound surprising, but given her wide range of interests, isn’t. “I am going to attend Wingate University and get a degree in nuclear pharmacy,” Natalee said. “I think it’s an important field and involves work with radioactive medicine for cancer patients.” There will be many kids fill the halls of South Point in the coming years, and not all of them can achieve what Natalee has, but for one and all she has some sound advice to help them reach their maximum potential–words that have been her credo. “Take it one day at a time,” she said. “Do what you want to do, and put your all into it.”
Graduates, take time for the ‘little’ things A list of advice to graduates: Eat less. Taste more. Climb more mountains. Drive a red sports car. Appreciate kudzu. Start a fire in someone's soul. Learn how to choose a good melon. Change your own flat tire. Create something. Anything. Learn a foreign language. Sail a boat. Take pictures. Lots of them. Dance. Watch a sunset. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat...... Taste raindrops. Eat a brussels sprout. One is enough. Vote. Go fishing without bait. Spend more time. Less money. Get lost.
Sleep in a tent. Write a poem. Hold a newborn child. Cry, but just a little. See a Broadway play, even if it's off-Broadway. Smell a mum. Everybody smells roses. Learn to play golf. Then actually play only if you enjoy it. Swim in an ocean and walk in a desert in the same year. Make friends everywhere you go. Go everywhere with friends. Don't work at a job you don't like. Work hard at a job you do. Love your parents for who they are. Appreciate them for who you are. Hear music when there isn't any. Love someone more than yourself. Know the virtue of being alone. Never know the pain of being lonely. Know the difference.
Appreciate art for what it is. Don't try to make it something else. Start saving for retirement before you get your first job. Just like your funeral, it's inevitable. Avoid the seven deadly sins. They're aptly named. Paddle in a lake. Make a friend in someone of a different culture. Read Huck Finn. Spend a St. Patrick's Day evening in a real Irish pub. Be a part of a revolution, but do it peacefully. Find a way for others to be right when they disagree with you. Learn the difference between flowers and weeds before you tend a garden. Milk a cow. Visit New York City. Like brussels sprouts, once is probably enough. Read enough to have a favorite author. Make a list like this, then share it.
Page 2B
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
South Point High School Class of 2013 Joshua Abee Sarah Abernathy Nora Abouseria Hannah Adams Kristin Agee Ashlyn Alexander Madison Alexander
StratfordAlexander Nyiasha Anderson Ashley Arney Ivan Arroyo Hunter Auten Brian Baldwin Trenton Ballard
Ruben Banuelos Austin Barlow Lacy Beach Luke Beach Brian Beal Ethan Beal Kenneth Bell
Breanna Bello Faith Benson Bree-Anna Bevlin William Bianconi Aaron Biggerstaff Johnathan Biggerstaff Jordan Biggerstaff
Rebecca Biggerstaff Haley Black Hayden Black Jacob Blanton Samantha Blevins Jimmy Bolin Spencer Bonds
Andi Bone Madison Borel Cameron Boyd DJ Bradley Makayla Bradley Shaunna Branch Timothy Britton
A unique blend of consigned, couture & brand new clothing
1392 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, NC 704.862.6022
Like us on Facebook!
24 N. Main St., Belmont • 704-461-8043
From the
360 Taekwondo Staff
105 South Main St., Belmont (704) 825-8585 info@southmaincycles.com www.southmaincycles.com
Avery Insurance Group Auto • Home • Business • Life 210 N. Main Street, Belmont
704-825-4134 mark@averyinsure.com www.averyinsure.com
on such a Great Breakthrough! Now see what we can do for you... Try a FREE CLASS on us! Stop by or call today! 6509B W. Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont 704-813-2530 • www.360tkd.com • Like us on Facebook
Congratulations 2013 South Point Graduates!
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 3B
South Point High School Class of 2013 Shelbi Brock Heather Brown Micheala Buchanan Kiersten Burgin Ryan Burrell Issac Calvert Emily Campbell
Polly Cantilleps Arizbeth Carlin Nicholas Carpenter Alexander Case Cody Cauthen Elijah Cha St Paul Cha
Jeth Champion Matthew Chaney Kyrstin Chaparro Brooks Churn Jacob Clawson Natalee Clayton Justin Clemmer
Andrew Cloninger Daniel Cole Kourtney Conway William Cook Eric Coombs Secret Cope Kaila Cox
Jasmine Cribb Jessie Cribb Molly Crunkleton Cristian Cruz Leighann Cunningham Anna Dang Luke Darnell
L P H
Cameron we are proud of your accomplishments!! Best wishes as you pursue your degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of South Carolina!
Congratulations and Best of Luck Class of 2013!
F A u t l a a r t g i o n n o s C
800.849.9287 | www.watsoninsurance.com %HOPRQW ‡ *DVWRQLD ‡ /DNH :\OLH ‡ /LQFROQWRQ
From all of us at
McDonald’s
ÂŽ
210 Park Street, Belmont NC 28012
704.825.9861
505 N. Main St. Belmont
i’m lovin it
Page 4B
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
South Point High School Class of 2013 Summer Davila Andrew Davis Dwight Davis Maya Davis MyKel Davis Hannah Dellinger Carson Dewalt
Nicole Dowdy Benjamin Earney Ashraf Elinbabi Madison Eller Taylor Ellington Michael Elliott Jennifer Esparza
Portrait Evans Gabriel Ewing Norman Falls Victoria Fleming Justin Foster Zachary Fowler Dylan Fox
Lauren Frady Hannah Gallaher Alma Garcia Rugerio Jack Gardner Sadler Gensch Ashley Gibson Dulce Giermanski
Manaka Green Patrick Green Tyler Green Cameron Greenway Abigayle Gronstal Michael Gutkowski Amanda Hancock
Raj Patel 6428 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-1050
• UPS Shipping
• Copying, Printing & Document Services
• Packaging Services
• Fax (Send/Receive)
• Packaging Supplies
• Mailbox Services
• Freight Services
• Notary Services
• Office Supplies
• Large Size laminating
The UPS StoreÂŽ
6
Congratulations 3456789:;6<=>?@9>>A>6458B?@76;579;C986;56C9DE6F5=6E98G58H6 F5=86 <9>;I6 6 J89758F6 KC?85E8:L;?L6 K9@;986 5GG98>6 >;:;96 5G6 ;C96 :8;6 LC?85E8:L;?L6 L:896 =;?D?M?@76 L5HE=;986 ?@>;8=H9@;6 :NO=>;?@7P6H5;?5@6QR8:F>P6:@N6>E58;>6LC?85E8:L;?L6;9LC@?S=9>6 :@N6 H=LC6 H589I6 6 T:DB6 :@N6 U=@6 V9DH5@;6 5GG98>6 G8996 7:?;6 :@:DF>?>6 ;56 79;6 F5=6 ?@;56 ;C96 L5889L;6 >C596 :D5@76 4?;C6 :DH5>;6 WX6 F9:8>6 9QE98?9@L9I6 6 T96 <5;C6 4:@;6 ;C96 <9>;6 G586 F5=6 ;56 H:B96 >=896 F5=6 >;:F6 C9:D;CF6 :@N6 ?@O=8F6 G899I6 6 K5H96 C:Y96 :6 G8996 L5@>=D;:;?5@6 4?;C6 9?;C986 586 <5;C6 5G6 =>6 ;56 >996 ?G6 496 L:@6 C9DE6F5=I6 J89758F6KC?85E8:L;?L6K9@;986 dbb6[I6K9@;8:D6eY9P66 V9DH5@;6 ^X_R`WaRaWXX6
444I789758FLC?85L;8IL5H6
" !
" !
6
T:DB6Z6U=@6V9DH5@;6 WXX6[I6\:?@6];899;P6 V9DH5@;6 ^X_R`WaRbX`W6 c5DD546=>65@6G:L9<55B6:;6 4:DB:@N8=@<9DH5@;6
to the Class of 2013! From Art and the Whole Staff at Art Shoemaker’s State Farm Insurance 704.827.8433 art.shoemaker.bwjt@statefarm.com
305 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. Belmont
With life insurance, the benefits live on. P Phil hil Champion, Champion, A Agent gent 27 E Catawba Catawba Street Street Be Belmont, lmont, NC NC 28012 Bus Bus:: 704-461-8944 phil@philc phil@philchampionsf.com hampionsf.com
There are also beneďŹ ts now. I’ll show you how life insurance can come in handy for more immediate family needs, like college. G GET ET TO TO A BETTER BETTER STATE. STATE. CALL M ET ODAY. CALL ME TODAY. ÂŽ
“No Case Too Big or Too Small� State Farm Life Insurance Company ( Not licensed in MA, NY or WI ) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company ( Licensed in NY and WI ) Bloomington, IL 1203076
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 5B
South Point High School Class of 2013 Collin Haney Mitchell Hanks Kayla Hannah Austin Hansen Morgan Hargett Samuel Harris Daniel Harrison
Alexis Hartsfield Caleb Hayes Devin Heavner Jared Hedrick Anthony Helms Elizabeth Helms Muerrick Helms
Kaitlyn Hessler Graylin Heustess Josh Hickler Jessica Hill Megan Hill Salisity Hill Matthew Hodges
Brandon Howard Heather Howard Emily Howe Abigail Howell Jordyn Hudgins Danielle Hudspeth Brandi Hughes
Jasmine Hughes Joshua Hunter Dat Huynh Jasmine Jackson Aafia Jaliawala Kenton Jen Molly Jimison
Alexandria Johnson Ariel Johnson Cooper Johnson Samuel Johnson Landon Jones Tyler Joye Lauren Joyner
Benjamin Julen Farukh Kamdar Paul Katopodis Andrew Kenney Devon King Macie Kinley Kaylee Lanier
Caroline Law Charles Lawing Sean Lawlor Marin Lazenby Katelyn Ledford Tristan Ledford Brandon Lee
801 Park Street, Belmont • 704-825-8600
Page 6B
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
South Point High School Class of 2013 Lindsey Lee Ranz Lemmer Mary Lemond Walker Lessane William Locklear Makayla Lowe Megan Ludwig
Lindsey Malcolm David Martin Alexis Mason Enrique Mateo Hailey Mauldin James Mayberry Traci Mayne
Kristen McAndrew Scott McCall Cameron McDonald Ashley McGee Jordan McGee Jordan McGruther Erin McHugh
Eric McIntyre Carrie McLaughlin Skylar Mclean Demetriana McLendon Michaela Meek Jordan Melton Leal Justin Mendoza
Cathryn Michael Marissa Modola Chelse Moore Jessica Moore Ryan Moreno Christina Moss Alessa Mull
Ashley Mull Leah Mull Joey Najera Cody Neal Bryonna Nelson Christine Nelson Abigail Newman
Amy Nguyen Viet Nguyen William Nicks Michael Nolen Amber Oxendine Justin Pace Jonathan Painter
Mitchell Painter Tyler Painter Anthony Paratore Colleen Pardo Courtney Pardo Taylor Parker Victoria Parks
Congratulations Class of 2013! & % # $ $ " !! '
/=<7>4@A:4@9=<?
CONGRATULATIONS C ONGRATULA T ATIO T NS Classs of 2013! Clas 2013!
6 North Main St. Belmont
3=A@8!2=9<@!/:4??!=6!'%&(" Belmont General Store and
Ice Cream Shop +!1$!049<!3@>55@#!.5:;=<@ ,%)$-'*$%&&)
Registration now open for Summer Camps: June 24-28 • July 8-12 Fall Classes for Children & Adults For more information Call: 704.825.1819 Email: artbyj@aol.com or Visit: www.artbyjstudios.com
LLocated ocated inside the Belmont General General Store Store 6 North Main St. St. Belmont, NC o Amish Peanut Peanut Butt Butter er Spr Spread ead o Y You-Pick ou-Pick o Gift Bask Baskets ets o Okr Okraa Chips
o Sallie’ Sallie’ss Gr Greatest eatest Jam - Herb Infused
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 7B
South Point High School Class of 2013 Gianna Partee Dimpal Patel Colin Pearson Caitlin Peters Richard Peterson Tiffany Petty Keslynn Pihl
Matthew Poole Kevin Prunty Kayla Rankin Neil Raval Hayden Ray Erik Reyes Emily Rhodes
Dylan Rhom Dane Rhyne Kristin Rivera Devan Robbins Audrey Rubendall Brittany Rushton Maddison Russell
Haleah Sadler Elizabeth Scanlon Cole Seifert Paula Shackleford Kristie Shirlen Matthew Sieber Dustin Smith
Nimar Smith Robert Smith Richard Snyder Jadyn Steele Cassidy Stegall Ariana Stephens Jon Stewart
Boyd stresses the importance of giving back By Alan Hodge Alan.bannernnews@gamil.com
The stats of South Point High 2013 graduate 17-year-old Cameron Boyd show him ranked 3rd in his class of 320 students and with a 5.04 grade point average, but the numbers only tell part of his story of overcoming adversity to achieve success as a student and human being. Cameron is the son of Tim and Lisa Boyd and gives his dad a lot of credit for his desire to make something of himself. “My father was an orphan and lived in the Baptist Children’s Home,� he said. “Now he’s an orthopedic physician’s assistant and that inspired me to do always do my best.� Not only that, but through his dad’s story Cameron also gained an understanding of the need to give back to others. “My father always gives the children
at the orphanage cards and gifts at Christmas,� he said. “This was an important lesson for me.� Taking that point of inspiration, Cameron organized an independent service project called Warming the Soles where he and others collected socks for the less fortunate in Gaston County. Foot comfort, or rather the lack of it in his own case, is something Cameron is familiar with since he was born with a problem that required surgery to correct. Yet, he overcame that adversity and has gone on to excel in soccer both as a player at South Point and as an NC youth soccer referee. He was named MVP for varsity soccer, and was an All Conference player. “My parents expected me to do well whether it was at school, work, or on the soccer field,� he said. According to Cameron, they also encouraged him to get involved with See BOYD, 8B
Photo by Alan Hodge
South Point High graduate Cameron Boyd has maintained a cheerful and optimistic outlook on life despite some personal challenges. Cameron credits his parents, especially his father, for this attribute.
Congratulations to the
Class of 2013!
Class of
2013 Congra tulation s!
s! ion t a l tu gra Con
From your friends at Simonetti’s Pizza
"" !
Jean’s Flowers Flowers for Every Occasion 123 Park St., Belmont • 704-825-9781
Rated Top 21 Pizzas In The World
(In the Main Street Crossing Shopping Center)
Surprise Me 132 N. Main St., Belmont, NC 704.825.1116 ~ Tervis Tumblers ~ Tyler Candles ~ Mud-Pie ~ Camille Beckman ~ Outdoor Bird Houses ~ Bird Baths ~ Fire Pots with Fuel ~ Flags ~ Door Mats ~ Lotion Candles ~ Cinda Jo ~ Baby Gifts ~ Scarves ~ Wedding Gifts ~ Wine Accessories ~ Seasonal Gifts ~ Old Fashion Candies ~ Republic of Tea ~ Much More
Gifts for All Occasions!
Page 8B
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
South Point High School Class of 2013 Kelsey Strausbaugh Marissa Strenkert Christopher Svetlick Katherine Swickrath Nelson Tax Vasquez Samantha Taylor Maggie Thompson
Taylor Thorne Duy Tran Brett Trantham Elizabeth Traywick Daniel Treece Dustin Truong Daniel Underwood
Camden Van Pelt Alexa Villa Timothy Walker Clifton Wallace John Walthers Erin Washam Alex Wasson
Matthew Welch Kelsey Whitesides Janet Widenhouse Dustin Wiles Sydney Willis Morgan Woods Andrew Wooten
BOYD: stresses the importance of giving back From page 7B school activities. In that vein, he’s been a member of the International Club, a School Tour Guide, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Spanish Club, Bible Club, Interact Club, Environmental Club, National Honor Society, and Student Council. On the scholastic side of things, Cameron has garnered a plethora of accolades. He attended the Commissioners School of Excellence, won several Mathematic Academic Achievement Awards, was named an All Conference Soccer Scholar Athlete, been on the Principal’s Honor Roll, was named an AAA Scholar and a PTA Top Scholar as well. In addition he was designated an AP Scholar with Distinction and a US History Honors Award winner. There’s more. He attended the NC Governor’s School at Meredith College with a concentration in math and went to the Shelton Leadership Challenge art NC State. But Cameron’s life doesn’t revolve totally around school. He enjoys hunting on property his family owns near Casar as well as camping. He’s also recently taken a part time job at Stringbean restaurant in Belmont. Cameron could have gone to most any college, but he’s chosen to attend the University of South Carolina and study chemical engineering- a course that suits his personality perfectly. “It’s a blend of science and math,” he said. “Lots of problem solving.” Cameron’s demeanor and academic drive have also impressed his teachers.
Nicholas Yorick
“Cameron possesses one of the top academic minds that I have had the honor of teaching,” said history teacher Stephen Lehman. “He is energetic, passionate, engaging, responsible, hard working, an analytic thinker, a devoted athlete and teammate, a natural leader, and is well-liked by both peers and faculty members alike. Cameron has an amazing presence in class and is a boon for a teacher as he is curious about all subjects and topics, is constantly engaged in the lesson of the day, and seems to cherish the educational experience. One of Cameron’s legacies at South Point will be that he was not content to sit back and just be spoon-fed knowledge. He was an active participant in his educational process including lectures, discussions, debates, and group activities. I am excited to see what Cameron accomplishes at the next level and beyond.” “Cameron is an exceptionally well-rounded young man with an open heart and mind and a giving spirit. He is a definite asset in any setting and truly a pleasure to teach. He has much potential and the determination to achieve his dreams. He is one of the best,” said Glenda Bartlett, AP Government Teacher at South Point. With all of Cameron’s activities, not to mention “regular” classroom attendance, the question naturally arises as to how he gets it all done. “The key is balance and organization,” he said. As far as any words he would offer students getting set to rise through the ranks at South Point, Cameron has this sage advice. “Make the most of your four years in high school,” he said. “Get involved and give back, it will warm your heart.”
Help them keep up on their ho metown news... “No matter where they go a subscription to The Banner News is the Simply
perfect gift! return the information below to send your graduate the gift of local news and area happen ings.
Subscription to be sent to: NAME:
Gift From: Name:
ADDRESS:
Address:
PHONE: Mail Payment to:
The Banner News, PO Box 589
, Belmont NC 28012
❑ Check ❑ Credit Card
Phone: Card # ________________________ ___________________ Name on Card __________________ ___________________ Exp. Date ______________ V-C ode _________________
$
25
BN graduate subs. Offer expires 8/1/13 - gift subs. only
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 1C
East Gaston High School
Class of 2013
Casciani offers some advice to fellow students “Get involved with what you are passionate about.” By Alan Hodge Alan.bannernews@gmail.com
Perhaps its East Gaston High graduating senior Sarah Casciani’s unique family background that makes her also unique. That, a superior intellect, athletic ability and a desire to help others all are blended together to make her a standout. According to Sarah, her mom, Christina’s folks hail from West Virginia, and her dad David’s grandfather was from Italy. With that heritage she could just as well greet you with “hello” as “ciao”. That international background also seems to have infused her with an adventurous spirit that has made itself known in and out of school. During her time at East Gaston, Sarah took on a wide variety of courses, and soared in all of them holding a 4.1786 grade point average. “I tried to take as many AP classes as possible with a focus on science and math,” she said. “I really enjoyed it.” Several clubs and organizations at East Gaston also had the benefit of Sarah’s particpation. These include the GAS
Photo by Alan Hodge
Neonatal nursing will be East Gaston grad Sarah Casciani’s course of study at UNC-Wilmington. Sarah says taking care of her younger sister led her to that career path. Club, Interact Club, PALS, Student Council, Anchor Club, FCA, World Changers, and Mfuge. Sarah’s accolades also include the AAA Scholar Athlete Award and the Coach’s Award. She also took part in the recent American Cancer Society
East Gaston Relay for Life. The swimming pool is another place Sarah feels at home. “I’ve been swimming since I was four years old,” she said. Taking that early-learned skill, she was a member of the East Gaston swim team for four years. She also put her athletic
abilities to use on dry land as a member of the soccer and cross-country teams. Sarah also knows the value of real world hard work and hasn’t shied away from it. She not only worked as a cashier at the famed Brightstar Grill in Mount Holly, she also served as
a lifeguard at the Mount Holly Swim and Racquet Club. The East Gaston High years have been a good time for Sarah, but now she’s ready to move into a new phase of her life–college–and her career choice was greatly influenced by a sibling. “When I was 13 years old my parents had my sister Claire,” she said. “I had to baby sit her and really enjoyed it. So I have decided to attend UNCWilmington and study neonatal nursing. That’s where my passion is.” Sarah has another sister, Emily, already attending UNCWilmington studying English, and the two of them will no doubt build many memories there. “We plan to spend a lot of time together,” she said. As far as any advice she has to offer students at East Gaston following in her footsteps, Sarah passes on these words– “Get involved with what you are passionate about,” she said. “It’s never too early to start thinking about what you want to do in your future because the future is now.”
Five tips for graduates East Gaston High School Graduation will take place June 8, at 9am in the school gym.
Graduating is about change and moving on, and in the same breath it can be frightening as well as exciting. Being frightened and excited often have the same physical symptoms: racing heart, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, etc. The only thing that is really different is your choice of attitude. Do you decide that moving on is an exciting prospect or a frightening one? One thing you can be sure of in life is change, and some of us find change easy and welcome the challenge, and others find it hard. But with change come opportunities for growth, and if we are here on this planet for anything, it is to grow. So here are five tips for graduating to keep in mind.
choice. The first job that you choose to do doesn't have to be "right"; it is just what you are doing "right now." I know lots of people who change careers, whether it's lawyers becoming writers, car mechanics becoming realtors or managers becoming photographers. Each profession you choose or each part of your life experience informs the next part. Even if you don't do a total about-turn with your career, aim to see each phase as a building block. It is way too pressurized to think your first choice is your only one. 3. A job is made up of many jobs.
1. Be comfortable not knowing! If you don't know what to do after school, don't worry about it. Sometimes it's really important to have the well empty before you fill it up again. You've probably been extremely busy with studying, but there is no need to keep filling up your time just because you're used to doing so. It is important to have a rest, to let your mind empty, so that you leave space for new ideas to come in. Try to be comfortable with sitting with "nothingness"; it can actually be quite a relief to not know what's next and to not worry about it. 2. You're first choice is not your only
Whatever you chose to do, there are always large parts of it that aren't that fun, and you need to make sure that you are prepared to do those things. For example, when I started out in the acting profession, I thought that it was just about being on stage or on a TV or film set, but I soon realized that it was, amongst other things, about making calls, creating contacts, getting an agent, being in shape, auditioning and spending a huge amount of time learning sides, with no guarantees of a job. Now that's show business, and it is the "business" aspect that I had to take in to account and love as well, because I was going to be doing those other things most
of the time. My point is that you will never love every bit of what you do in a job, but so long as you love most of what is entailed, you are on to a winner. 4. Don't be afraid to change your mind. In your 20s, much of life is a process of deciding what you don't want as much as what you do want. So if you find that the first thing you choose isn't ultimately for you, then don't be afraid to change to one that might be. However, notice whether you are someone who has a pattern of hopping from one thing to the next without finishing things, or whether you are genuinely, legitimately changing your mind. 5. Enjoy the roller coaster ride. Don't expect to get where you want to go in one fell swoop; it usually takes years to get the results that you desire. The people who tend to do well are the ones who persevere and just keep going. If you are 25 now and doing a job, it is very likely that in 10 years' time, you will be where you want to be. Now, you might think, "That's ridiculous; I want to be there in one year," but that is unrealistic. You don't need to be in a rush or prove anything to anyone. The journey is what needs to See TIPS, 2C
Page 2C
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
East Gaston High School Class of 2013 Donnie Allen Mayra Alvarez-Macias Alexandrea Anthony Joni Ashe Sarah Ashley Jonah Auten Brooklyn Bailey
Tiffany Bailey Michael Barbour Bryan Barcon Jacob Barr Shelby Bayly Christopher Beach Isaiah Bell
Joshua Benfield Brittany Black Stephanie Blackwell Justice Bolick Macie Bolton Caroline Bowman Brandon Boyer
Kelsey Brackett Kelsey Britt Emily Broome Jetta Brown Caitlin Bumgardner Lauren Bynum Bailey Campbell
Cameron Canning Jonathon Carr Matthew Carver Sarah Casciani Corinne Cauthen Jared Chapman Brittany Chavers
BreAnna Chavis Erin Clemmer Paige Clemmer Sierra Cohen Dylan Coley Aaron Collins Ciarra Corey
Congratulations to all our area graduates!
Looking for something unique for the Grad?
“For all your automotive needs�
704.820.9842
From page 1C be enjoyable, because if you only enjoy the end points, you are in for a very depressing life, as those points are rare, odd moments; the journey is the rest of it.
QUINN’S TIRE AND AUTO SERVICE, INC. 1132 S. Main St. Mount Holly
TIPS: for grads
Stop in today and see our selection of oneof-a-kind handmade, personalized or unique gifts that can’t be found anywhere else!
Quinnstireandauto@yahoo.com
127 S. Main St. Mount Holly • 704-827-6977
Remember that life is about cycles, whether it's cycles of the moon, the seasons, the economy,
you name it. Careers are the same; sometimes you will be doing really well, and other times you will have lean years. Keep balanced throughout, and whether you have tough times or not, as long as you have your health, great relationships and food on your table, then you can enjoy the roller coaster ride. Taken from www.howhappyis.com
Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day! 10% OFF
We are your hometown Family PharmacyÂŽ! Family Pharmacy Store Brands - equal to national brands at a substantial savings to you. We specialize in hometown, personal service. The way your drug store should be. We accept PCS, Paid, BCBS, TriCare, MedImpact, Cigna, AARP & many more insurances.
We offer Savings, Service and Satisfaction...
Benson Funeral & Cremation Service
Family Med Pharmacy
101 Oak Grove St., Mt. Holly
704-827-1801
Hours 8-8 M-F; 8-7 Sat. (behind Hardees, across from Food Lion)
Allison Cobb, RPh • Carter Cobb, RPh
704-263-0810 • Stanley
ÂŽ
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 3C
East Gaston High School Class of 2013 Jordan Creel Madison Creighton Madison Dalrymple Bailey Davis Tyler Davis Derek Dewosky Taylor Dewosky
Christopher Dill Jacob Dobbins Christian Duran Jacob Edmondson Ryan Emmett Joseph Euchner Shelbi Exum
Michael Farris John Faulkenberry Timothy Fleming Haley Fletcher Eric Flowers Derrick Floyd Jacob Fulmer
Jeremy Fulmer Christian Gardner Jordan Garrison Sara Garver Shadae Gentry Amber Gibson Alexandria Goldey
Ashley Greene Jamel Grice Matthew Grimmett Randy Hale Zachary Hamrick Nicollette Hanson Jasmine Harding
“Set a goal and work hard to achieve it� says Coley By Alan Hodge Alan.bannernews@gmail.com
When East Gaston senior Dylan Coley graduates on June 8 and begins preparing for studies at the University of Alabama, it will just be the beginning of travels he plans to make in the cause of helping others. The son of David and Sherry Coley of Mount Holly, Dylan’s choice of civil engineering is one he believes will carry him to places where that knowledge will come in handy. “At Alabama I hope to learn infrastructure design that I can apply to Third World countries,� he said. “I am very interested in foreign nation service work.� According to Dylan, he has his eyes set on South America as a location to practice what he learns at Alabama. “I have been taking Spanish classes at East Gaston and like the culture in South America,� he said. While at East Gaston, Dylan laid a solid foundation for his college and career paths. He maintained a 4.85 grade point average and was third out of 317 East Gaston Class of 2013 graduates. He counts math and science as his two strongest subjects. “I enjoy learning and would rather be challenged
Photo by Alan Hodge
East Gaston graduating senior Dylan Coley will be leaving Mount Holly to study at the University of Alabama then head to South America to do civil engineering projects for less prosperous nations there. than have busy work,� Dylan said. Scholastic accolades Dylan accumulated at East Gaston included AP English Award, AP Statistics Award, Physics Honors Award, AP European History Award,
See COLEY, 6C
Congratulations to the Class of 2013 for all you have achieved! Best of Luck from all of us at Robert Black Insurance.
and Drafting II Engineering Award. He was also named an AP Scholar in his senior year and was a National Merit finalist. Furthermore, Dylan attended the NC State Summer Engineering program. Outside the classroom, Dylan was a member of the Beta Club, was a graduate of the inaugural Gaston Junior Leadership class, was in the National Honor Society, and was a member of the Government and Students Club. Dylan feels it’s as important to exercise the body as well as the mind. To that end he ran, then ran some more, then ran some after that as a member of the East Gaston cross country team. For four years at East Gaston he was a member of the varsity cross-country team and was its captain for three years. He was also a member of the track and field team four years and its captain for two years. He won the Track and Field Coaches Award in tenth grade and was Cross Country Runner of the Year in tenth and eleventh grades. “I originally got involved in cross country to get in shape for basketball but liked it better,� Dylan says. “Involvement in athletics helped me grow. It helped me gain confidence to assume leadership roles on teams and participate in other programs.�
Congratulations Seniors!
! #
!!! "
QSC Food Mart 801 S. Main Street, Stanley
205 Madora St. Mount Holly 704.827.0212
Page 4C
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
East Gaston High School Class of 2013 Brody Harkey Courtney Harper Mary Harris Jessica Hathcock Joseph Haverty Caroline Hawkins Willie Heath
William Hedgecoe Robert Helle Amos Helms Cory Henson Hannah Hernandez Kailey Hinds Joshua Hinson
Brandon Holland Justin Holland Tyler Holt Alexis Hopper Mark Howard Earl Huffman Bradley Hughes
Allison Hutchins Megan Hyatt Katie James Charles Jenkins Cierra Jenkins Lucas Jenkins Brandon Johnson
Cameron Johnson Melissa Joiner Wesley Jones Courtney Jordan David Jordan Blossom Kavanagh Stacy Keziah
Eva Kirkpatrick Carly Kluttz John Knox Ashley Kurtz Lukas Kwiatkowski Patrick Lang Susan Larosa
Andrew Lay John Leatherwood Alex Ledford Jonathon Lethcoe Logan Lingerfelt Devin Lofton Tyler Lopez
,Justin Luckey Makayla Lybrand Sonya Mabe Cody Marosz Trent McCarty Douglas McCown Michael McDade
From all of us at
McDonald’s 704 S. Main St. Mount Holly
ÂŽ
i’m lovin it
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
The Banner News
Page 5C
East Gaston High School Class of 2013 John Michael McFalls Dillon Meier Abbey Menz Alejandra Mercado Jonkeevia Mitchell Sydney MontesinoSalloum Kayla Mooney
Diamond Moore Lance Moore Michael Morris Kayla Moss Kayla Mudd Summer Mullis Miranda Mulwee
Zachary Murphy Datari Murray Christopher Nichols Wyatt Nolan Samantha Norris Allen O’Shea Korenda Oates
Christopher Ocasio Jawontee Olds Brandon Outz Nicholas Palisi Andrew Paluszak Joshua Paulk Jorge Perez
John Petyan Trevaris Powe Conner Price Ashley Proctor Kaylan Puckett Catie Reel Preston Richardson
Patrick Rivera Sarah Robb Courtney Robinson Devin Robinson Cameron Rodgers William Rogers Destani Rollins
Hailey Rollins Callie Rumfelt Alex Rutledge Catherine Rutledge Michelle Sacchere Brionna Sanders Daylon Sanders
Emily Sanders Terralyn Sanders Lane Scott Ciera Secor Angela Shirley Richard Shoemaker Hunter Shope
A&E CONGRATULATES THE
CLASS OF 2013
Congratulations
Class of 2013 from all of us at
William K. Gary & Associates, Inc. For All Your Medication and Pharmaceutical Needs. . . Turn To Your Hometown Pharmacy
Nationwide Insurance
We Beat Competitors Prices!
and Financial Services
We Accept Most Insurances
ALLEN DRUG
124 S. Main St. Mount Holly
BEST WISHES ON A BRIGHT FUTURE!
M-F 8am-6pm Saturday 9am - 1pm
704.827.3151
220 S. Main St. • Stanley NC
20+ years
(between The Woodshed & Ralph Medical Center)
704.263.4876
MOUNT HOLLY, NORTH CAROLINA
Page 6C
The Banner News
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
East Gaston High School Class of 2013 Seth Simmons Sydney Sisk Lucas Skidmore Steven Snelling Jennifer Soto Kaylea Sparrow Dairyn Stebbins
Madeline Stevens Marley Stewart Spence Stewart Emma Stogner Darian Stokes Mali Syhachack Kristen Tarleton
Jordan Taylor Joshua Tessnear Rose Thao Mackenzie Tilley Jordan Tillman Tyler Tobin Hannah Trahan
Destiny Valentin Devin Varner Michelle Vongmalaythong Michael Waldrup Jessica Walker Cramaisa Wardlaw Zachary Weaver
Olivia Weldon Devin Whalen Shawntel Wiley Justin Williams Seth Winfrey Brandon Winkler Courtney Woody
Haydn Wooten Zachary Yeager Eleni York Cassidy Zander Colleen Zatorski
COLEY: set your goals and work hard to achieve them From page 3C An added benefit Dylan says he got from being on the team was one of camaraderie. “The cross country team is a close knit group like brothers,� he said. “It’s like a little family.� Soon, Dylan will look back on East Gaston and set his sights for Alabama and South America, but he wants to leave behind a bit of advice for students coming after him. “Figure out what you want to do and set a goal and work as hard as you can to achieve it,� he said. “You can make a difference.�
Drugs...Prescriptions Specialists Home Health Care Supplies & Equipment
Home of the Charlie’s Drug Lemonade & Orangeade Fountain
Meet Your Friends at Charlie’s Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:30am - 7pm Sat: 8:00am - 4:00pm Sun: 8:00am-9:30am
125 W. Central Ave., Mt. Holly
Congratulations to the Class of 2013 from everyone at the City of Mount Holly!
Help them keep up on their ho metown news... “No matter where they go a subscription to The Banner News is the perfect gift! Simply return the information below to
There are no do-overs at retirement Call Ryan! 704-461-8847 100 North Main Street Belmont, NC Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC
send your graduate the gift of local news and area happening s.
Subscription to be sent to: NAME:
Gift From: Name:
ADDRESS:
Address:
PHONE: Mail Payment to:
The Banner News, PO Box 589
, Belmont NC 28012
â?‘ Check â?‘ Credit Card
Phone: Card # ________________________ ___________________ Name on Card __________________ ___________________ Exp. Date ______________ V-C ode _________________
$
25
BN graduate subs. Offer expires 8/1/13 - gift subs. only