Banner-News 10-27-22

Former educator Edith Jane Stewart Reid honored in Mt. Holly

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

A nice-sized group of friends, officials, kinfolks, and former students paid tribute to long-time educator Edith Jane Stewart Reid last Sunday in the Danny Jackson Grand Hall of the Mt. Holly Municipal Center.

The event included recollections of Reid as a teacher, mentor, and civic activist. The warmth and love for Reid that radiated in the room was clearly evident.

Reid, who is 94-yearsyoung and celebrated her birthday Oct. 2, began her teaching career back in 1958 at the A.M. Rollins School in Mt. Holly where she taught seventh and eighth grades until 1966. While at Rollins,

Reid also served as the social worker for cases of truancy, the music teacher for the rhythm band and junior chorus, served on the school accreditation committee, and helped organize the annual “May Day” event when schoolgirls wore matching dresses and danced around the “Maypole” to celebrate the return of summer.

Just before Rollins closed, Reid crossed the Catawba and continued her career in Mecklenburg Co. by teaching at Smith Jr. High, West Mecklenburg High, CPCC, Harding High, Johnson C. Smith University, and South Mecklenburg High. She retired in 1988 after 30 years as an educator.

She is one of the last

living teachers of Rollins School, a fact that prompted the City of Mt. Holly to issue a proclamation in her honor at its September 26 meeting.

One of Reid’s former Rollins School students, Curtis Alexander of Mt. Holly, recalled her excellence as a teacher and role model.

“She took us to see the movie ‘The Sound of Music’,” he said. “I was in her music class and will always remember it.”

One of Reid’s grandchildren, Allison Spruill, also expressed appreciation for her example-setting.

“She is a special person,” Spruill said. “Teaching is a very hard, and she did a beautiful job.”

See REID, Page 7

Phil Fox of North Belmont has a magic bus

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

Back in 1968 the British rock group The Who had a hit tune called “Magic Bus”. Well, North Belmont resident Phil Fox has a bus that makes magic wherever it goes too.

Fox’s machine is a 1948 model Greyhound bus of the type that during its working

life shuttled countless folks all over the southeast.

“The bus was originally used in Jacksonville, Florida, on the Greyhound line,” Fox says.

Year passed, the bus was converted into a motorhome, and it ended up in Stanfield, N.C. where Fox found it.

“I decided in 2020 that I

wanted a camper, but not the kind you drag,” Fox said.

“I wanted a motorhome but it had to be cool. I started looking at a YouTube site called Bus Grease Monkey that featured vintage buses.

I had a friend in Oakboro who told me he knew of one in Stanfield. I bought it from the owner there named Brent

Lance.”

The magic bus seemed to be waiting for Fox.

“When I found it, it had been sitting for two years but it fired right up, and I drove it home,” he said.

The heart of the bus is a huge six-cylinder Detroit Diesel engine with a four

Belmont city manager Adrian Miller moving to new post in Gastonia

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

Belmont’s city manager Adrian Miller will leave his current jobu and take up new one in Gastonia effective Dec.12.

Miller’s new job will be assistant city manager in Gastonia where he will work under city manager Michael Peoples, the former city manager of Cramerton. Miller’s pay will be $170,000 a year.

A replacement for Miller has not been named as the BannerNews goes to press.

Miller has been city manager in Belmont since 2016. Prior to that, he was assistant city manager under Barry Webb. He also worked in the planning department in Belmont.

His responsibilities will include providing support and services for the City of Gastonia in the following areas: Gastonia Police Department, Gastonia Fire Department, Technology Services, and Human Resources.

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve the

public as the city’s new assistant city manager,” Miller said in a statement released by the city of Gastonia. “My foremost commitment is to the residents of our great city who rely on and deserve the best services we can offer them.”

Before he arrived in Belmont, Miller was a planner for the city of Hickory and assistant town manager for the town of Kitty Hawk.

Edith Jane Stewart Reid, her granddaughter Allison Spruill, and Reid’s former Rollins School student Curtis Alexander.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Phil Fox and his 1948 Greyhound Bus were a huge hit at the recent car show held at Charlie Craig’s garage/museum on S. New Hope Rd.

Photo by Terri Adcock

Adrian Miller

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

There are many types of drawers in this world. One is the type you put on and pull up and then wiggle a bit and pull on the rest of the way until they are (more or less) in place and you look at yourself in the mirror and wonder if they make your…oh, never mind.

The other is the type found in your bew-row, dresser, chest of drawers or whatever you call the place where you keep clothes. This harangue is about the latter.

Summer is done and it’s that awkward time of year when the temps like moods in certain folks at certain times in their life can swing wildly in the course of a day. The other morning, I got up and poked my nose out the back door and knew right away it was nippy. I went upstairs and opened a dresser drawer and dug deep into its bowels and pulled out a sweatshirt and jeans and went outside to do some yard work. By and by it got warmer and warmer. By noon I was back inside put on some shorts and a tee shirt. About 4pm a cool wind kicked up and off came the short stuff and back on went the morning attire.

Right now, both warm and cool weather clothes are heaped on my cedar chest ready for quick change, but I know that it’s time to change my dresser drawers over completely to winter-mode.

That is, take the winter stuff out and throw it on the bed and take the summer stuff and put it in the bottom of the dresser drawers and put the winter stuff on top.

My mom was a championship dresser drawer winter/summer clothes changer. She taught me the drill. I thought about her digging in my dresser and deciding what needs to be culled. First, there’s the tie-dyed t-shirt, then the one with the skull and crossbones on it, then several t-shirts with grease stains that won’t come out, then a couple of pairs of shorts that somehow or another mysteriously ‘drawed up’ and don’t fit anymore, then some socks with holes in the heels, and some ‘boxer briefs’ whose waistband digs into my middle like a garrote, then a couple of dingy white undershirts with neckbands stretched out and noodle-like and shabby.

On top of the drawer pecking order for the coming chill will go the long sleeve tees and sweatshirts. I love sweatshirts and have one that I’ve worn for nearly 20 years (that’s right). Beside the shirts will go my bib overalls and two pair of ‘yardwork’ jeans with holes and two pair of ‘decent’ jeans sans holes.

The sock and belt drawer needs attention too. Several of the belts also seem to have

‘drawed up’ over the years and won’t reach around my girth. One I made from a German army WWI belt buckle with “Gott Mit Uns” on it and the leather part is an Enfield rifle sling. Hemingway had a belt like that too and that’s where I got the idea.

Once I get all that drawer changing done, then I am ready for whatever the weather may bring.

I guess my drawer changing routine is not all that dif-

ferent from most animals this time of year when they prepare for the coming winter. I have been watching the squirrels as they begin building nests in the trees around the house. Sooner or later one will begin chewing on the house wishing to be inside the attic where it’s warm and dry. But that’s another story, just ask Joe Jordan if you see him about what happened to the last one who did that.

Years ago, my oldest son had to write an assignment for school. He was in the first or second grade I guess, so his essay was short. He simply wrote, “I am happy.” I was thinking of that little essay the other day, all of these years later. Such a simple statement, but one that means so much. When we look at our lives, can we say we’re happy? We know life is difficult often. We face good times and bad. Times of sorrow, loss, and brokenness. Despite our circumstances, can we be truly happy?

In Acts 16:25-34, the apostle Paul found himself in prison with his fellow missionary, Silas. They had been wrongly accused, beaten, and thrown in jail. They were chained in the jail, facing a bleak future. However, at about midnight, they began to sing hymns and pray. An earthquake began to shake the place, the doors opened, and their chains fell off. The jailor feared they all had fled, yet Paul told him they all remained. He came trembling in fear, asking what he must do to be saved. They told him to believe in Jesus! He washed

their wounds, brought them home, and Paul preached Jesus to him and his family. They received Jesus and were baptized. Paul and Silas were later freed from their unjust jailing. Paul, having faced a life of beatings, prison, and sorrow simply because of his faith in Jesus, understood what it meant to be happy. Happiness and contentment aren’t determined by what we have or hope to achieve. Our joy isn’t determined by what we are facing or experiencing. Our desires and needs can’t bring us true joy either. At best, the things of this world bring us only temporary happiness.

As Paul and Silas knew, true joy, peace and happiness, real contentment, can only be found in Jesus. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:1113, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (ESV). Jesus is the source of our true joy. We can be happy and content in Him. Through Jesus we find salvation. Nothing of this earth can bring us what Jesus can! So, like my son, and Paul, I too can say, I am happy!

Crowders Mtn. trail cleanup planned

The Friends of Crowders Mountain, Inc. Invites volunteers to help with litter pick up on Saturday, November 12. Volunteers will focus on the Pinnacle, Turnback, and connecting trails. Meet at the Sparrow Springs Visitor Center, 522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC at 8:30 a.m.; work finishes by noon. Pickup tools/bags, snacks, and water

Halloween reflections of days gone by

By Lisa Harper

Back in the dark ages when my twin sister and I embraced the Halloween season, there was anticipation in the air. This one-day event consisted of seeing who could come back home with the biggest candy haul. Remember grocery store paper bags? No, not plastic bags, the big crisp brown bags. They worked just fine for our night of spooks, as we tried to outdo everyone else with our homemade costumes.

Unlike today, this bootiful holiday event seemingly begins earlier each and every year. I’m pretty sure I saw Halloween costumes and the like on store shelves in early September. Lest we forget the vast array of candy and other sugary treats, that in due time, will keep the dentists busy through next Spring. Of course, there would be a few houses that did not hand out candy. Remember those popcorn balls? Also, I can’t forget the other disappointment in reaching into my bag…only to find an apple or two.

Halloween was a night of walking everywhere until dark. The neighborhood I grew up in was fairly large, and everyone knew everyone. We even visited several homes more than once, as did all of our friends. My favorite costume was easy to conjure up. Just find a long black dress, or simply make one out of fabric.. which was never hard to do…

because my Mom was a seamstress. Then it was always easy to find someone that had a witch’s hat in some shape or form. Those were the days.

Halloween memories are indeed cherished memories. Life was simple back then. The only decorations we had were carved pumpkins. We would always place two of them on each side of our front porch. No need for loud music or glaring bright lights. If we saw a porch light on, then that was our invitation to knock on the door.

The fun carried over to the next school day, because our friends would be showing off

their stash of candy and gum. By the time our lunch bell rang, no one was hungry because most of the Halloween goodies would be gone by then.

I feel so blessed to have had a Norman Rockwell childhood. The memories are as vivid now as they were back then. Where has the time gone?

It’s been many years since my current neighborhood has seen trick or treaters. Though, I always try to have a bag or two of candy on hand…just in case someone shows up. For now. I’ll enjoy reminiscing about days gone by growing up in the 60’s and 70’s.

will be provided. Dress appropriately for outdoor work and bring any necessary medications. Trail work days are heat index (90+) and weather (rain, snow, strong wind, lightning, storms) dependent. Please see facebook.com/FriendsOfCrowdersMtn or www. friendsofcrowders.com If questions, contact the park office at 704-853-5375.

Steve and I both love old sweatshirts.

Photo from Art of Manliness magazine

Rev. Trent Rankin Salvation Church, Gastonia, NC salvationchurchnc.org

Stanley Veterans Day event set

The November 10th Third Annual Stanley Cemetery Ancestry Fund Community Veterans Day Celebration in Stanley will be held at the First Presbyterian Church-Stanley, Stanley, NC. The ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. No reservations are needed but come early to be sure you get a seat.

The audience will be entertained by a host of great speakers providing important information, patriotic music, and an inspiring keynote speaker, Lt. Col. Dr. Grant Campbell.

Dr. Campbell is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). He has special interests in robotassisted surgery, complicated pregnancies, and endometriosis. He serves as chairman of the Department of Obstetrics

and Gynecology at Atrium Health University City and sits on the board of advisors of The Independence Fund.

He’s been recognized as a Top Doctor by Charlotte magazine and Business North Carolina for multiple years.

Dr. Campbell has received

numerous awards, including the Susan G. Komen Foundation Pink Tie Guy award, the Meritorious Service Medal, and 2 Army Commendation Medals for actions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Dr. Campbell received his medical degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed a residency at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center.

Outside of work, he loves spending time with his family. As a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, he spends a great deal of time advocating for veterans’ issues. He’s also a writer and had a fiction novel published in 2013.

The Gaston County Honor

Guard will be presenting the colors and retiring the colors. Each family attending will receive a commemorative Program Guide that includes the names of veterans being honored or remembered for their service to our country, information about the 144 veterans resting in the Stanley Cemetery, and other helpful information. Veterans in attendance will receive a memento.

Rick Strickland gospel concert planned

Well-known gospel singer Rick Strickland will give a concert on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 1:30 at Ranlo Baptist Church, 1517 Spencer Mtn. Rd. Strickland will also perform at the 11am worship service. Strickland has been singing gospel songs for 40 years.

Lowesville Gospel Concerts...

Saturday Nov 12th - 5 PM. Lowesville Gospel Concerts at Vineyard Church – 1062 South Hwy 16 – Stanley (Lowesville) NC, presents in concert ETERNAL VISION, a male quartet from Knoxville TN. Shannon Shelby of the group is one of the most talented young men we have ever seen, he will be a tremendous blessing. A freewill offering only to be received, so bring a friend and worship with us. For information contact Carroll Cooke 704-618-9762.

He will provide for today

Rev. Mark Costner Centerview Baptist North Belmont

1 Kings 17:4 “You are to drink from the wadi. I have commanded the raven to provide for you there”.

Even ravens submit to the command of the Lord, a reality Elijah experienced in person. After the prophet spoke Gods word to wicked King Ahab, God hid his servant for a season. Elijah camped out in a wilderness ravine called Kerith, and twice daily, birds came with bread and meat in their beaks to give to Elijah. Talk about supernatural provision!

Elijah was put in a situation that forced him to trust the Lord for daily provision. The birds did not stockpile

a tent of food. Elijah did not receive a shopping spree at the grocery store.

Instead, every morning he woke up and depended on God to bring the ravens, and every evening he did the same. Because of the abundance in the Western world, we can lose sight of this reality. God has not promised next year’s provision today. He wants us to learn to trust Him for our daily bread.

Mark Costner

A pastor once pastored a church with meager financial resources. Their monthly lease payment was $1,610.24. One Sunday while

driving to church, He remembered the lease was due, and the bank account was low. He prayed, “Lord, please provide enough in the offerings today to cover the rent.” On Monday he noticed the previous day’s deposit. It was $1,642.24. God covered the need with a little extra! Though God often provides through the national means of our jobs, bank accounts, and resources, He does not want us ultimately to depend on those means. They could all dry up tomorrow. Instead, He wants us to learn to lean on Him daily.

Miller

the International City/County Management Association.

Bach-

a master of

administration from James Madison University.

has certificates

the UNC School

Government’s

the Public Executive

Academy.

the

has also

are excited to have Adrian join our city’s management team,” said Peoples. “His leadership skills and depth of experience will allow our team to continue to focus on providing an extensive level of essential service, strategic planning, and focus on exceptional customer service that makes Gastonia a great place to live, work, and relax.”

General Election Dates

The General Election is November 8. Here are dates to remember.

November 1, 2022 (5:00 pm) Last day to apply for an absentee ballot for the 2022 General Election.

November 5, 2022 Onestop absentee voting (early voting) ends for the 2022 General Election.

November 7, 2022 (5:00 pm) Last day to apply for an absentee ballot for voters who expect to be unable to vote on Election Day due to sickness or physical disability.

November 8, 2022 (5:00

pm) Deadline for receipt of mail-out absentee ballots.

November 8, 2022 General Election Day (polls open at 6:30 am and close at 7:30 pm).

November 10, 2022 (10:00 am) Sample hand-toeye recount.

November 14, 2022 (5:00 pm) Deadline for mail-out absentee ballots postmarked on November 8, 2022.

November 17, 2022 (5:00 pm) Pre-Canvass Meeting

November 18, 2022 (11:00 am) Canvass of the 2022 General Election.

Belmont Boofest coming Oct. 29th

Here are some Halloween tips from the National Safety Council

Costume Safety- Before Halloween arrives, be sure to choose a costume that won’t cause safety hazards. All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant. If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks. Opt for nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, which can obscure vision; always test makeup in a small area first to see if any irritation develops. Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation.

When They’re on the Prowl- Here’s a scary statistic: Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.

Keep these tips in mind when your children are out on

Halloween night: A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds. If your older children are going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time children should return home. Teach your children never to enter a stranger’s home or car. Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends. Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home, and take care to avoid any food allergies.

Safety Tips for MotoristsNSC offers these additional safety tips for parents – and anyone who plans to be on the road during trick-or-treat hours: Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully. At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing. Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.

The City of Belmont’s annual BooFest will be held on Saturday, October 29 in downtown Belmont. Event festivities kick off at 2 PM with a variety of fun, free activities for the whole family. Event activities end promptly at 7 PM at which time a showing of Hocus Pocus will begin in the Stowe Park pavilion.

Make sure to wear your Halloween costumes and start off trick or treating on North Main Street at the touch atruck exhibition. Kids of all ages will be able to explore law enforcement vehicles, military vehicles, and heavy utility vehicles on display from North Main Street to South Main Street.

Then make your way through Stowe Park to discover 40+ artisan vendors, food vendors, and carnival rides. Test your throwing skills at the axe throwing booth and stop by the face painting booth for

a spooky sketched design or glitter tattoo! Hang out by the pavilion in Stowe Park to catch a demonstration by NC Budo at 2 PM, costume contests at 3 PM, a performance by Dance Specialties at 4 PM, Belmont School of Ballet at 5 PM, and the jack-o-lantern contest at 6 PM. Food vendors will be located on the upper field of Stowe Park and on South Main Street. Free carnival rides will be located on the upper field of Stowe Park as well.

As the activities of BooFest conclude, make sure to set up your lawn chairs and blankets in front of the pavilion in Stowe Park for a showing of Hocus Pocus, presented by Aurora Star Lit Cinema, at 7 PM.

For more information on this event, visit eventeny. com/events/boofest or contact Community Events Coordinator, Morgan Abernathy at mabernathy@cityofbelmont.org.

The Town of Stanley congratulates John and Sue Bledsoe as winners of the Fall Decor Award!

Also, thanks to all the finalists for their efforts and to the many wonderful folks in Stanley who took part in the first “people’s choice” voting.

BUS

From Page 1

speed Spicer gearbox. The shifter is manual four speed on the steering column. There is no power steering. According to Fox, 1,641 of this type of bus was made between 1947-1949. His is serial number 1597. Officially, it’s a GMC “Silverside PD 3751” model.

Once Fox got the bus home, he set to work right away sprucing it up with the goal of eventually having the exterior back to its original blue, silver, white Greyhound livery.

“When I got it, the color was beige with a turd brown stripe down the side,” he said.

“It was kind of homely.”

So far, Fox has stripped the beige/brown off and the bus is bare metal. He had a friend make a replica of the running Greyhound dog logo for the side. The inside still has its 1970s motorhome look with butterscotch brown and tan upholstery and carpet. There’s a restroom, kitchenette, and bedroom setup looking straight from the disco era all of which sends the “cool” factor eight miles high.

With Fox behind the wheel, the bus still gets around.

“I mostly drive it locally but have taken it as far as Mill Spring to see another bus fan I know named Gene Russell who owns a diesel service business.” Fox said.

On the local scene, Fox

and the bus make for a magical presence whenever they appear at a car show, cruisein, parade or other events.

“People say, wow, that’s the coolest thing I’ve ever seen,” said Fox. “At the car show Charlie Craig had a couple of weeks ago, about 500 people looked it over inside and out.”

What’s the future for Fox’s magic bus?

“I plan to restore the outside and the driver’s compartment,” he said. “I’m also going to put in fresh carpet and fix the destination signage on the front. I want to travel the U.S. with it towing my 1948 Dodge behind.”

The Bright Star Drive-In club relax in the shade of the bus.

The bus ready for Halloween.

The bus boudoir.

Fox at the wheel - no power steering and four speed column shifter.

An archival photo showing a Greyhound bus at the Charlotte bus terminal that once stood on W. Trade St.

Photo courtesy Millican Pictorial History Museum

This is how the bus will look when its paint job is done.

The bus “lounge area”.

Photos by Alan Hodge

Greyhound memorabilia.View through the windshield.Custom license plate.

The bus powerplant.

Head on view.

Chad and Sawyer Beaty from Alexis tour the bus.

The

Fox

Christmas

From Page 1

As for Reid, she is softly outspoken on subjects relating to teaching and parenting. She recalled her days at Rollins which was in the Freedom Community of Mt. Holly.

“I have the most beautiful memories of teaching,” she said. “The children I taught were fantastic because they had good parents and lived in a community they could admire. They learned how to get along with everybody.”

Reid also talked about the challenges modern teachers face.

“The teachers have to be able to take it because the parents don’t teach their children like they used to,” she said.

As far as advice to not only teachers, but folks in general, Reid offered this thought.

“Do the right thing and get to know God.”

About the A.M. Rollins School

The A.M. Rollins School is an important icon of Mount Holly’s African-American heritage that is too often forgotten and whose only tangible evidence of having ever existed at all is a stone monument near the Rollins Apartments on South Hawthorne Street.

The stone marks the location where the school stood from 1930-1969. The school was unique in that it was where all of Mount Holly’s African-American children in grades one through eight were educated before public schools were integrated in the late 1960s.

The Rollins School was originally called the Mount Holly Colored School, but was later named after its first principal, A.M. Rollins. There was also another school for African-American kids in the Lucia community, with just one teacher for all grades. This school eventually was merged with the Rollins School, meaning all African-American children in the area made the trek to S. Hawthorne St.

Teachers at the Rollins School who needed a place to live and who had trouble finding transportation often stayed at the nearby home of Mrs. Roceda Bailey. With the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, schools began to integrate and in 1969, Rollins School was closed. For a short time, the school building was used as a community center, but like the Reid High School in Belmont about the same time, Rollins was relegated to the wrecking ball.

But the memory and spirit of the Rollins School would not die. In the mid-1990s a group known as the Black History Committee and led by the late John Hope in Mount Holly began working on a project to commemorate the school and the work that had gone on there.

Through fund-raisers, corporate and private sponsorships, and the sale of brick pavers engraved with the names of donors, an eight-foot granite monument and “Memory Walk” sidewalk in honor of the Rollins School was constructed where the school had once stood.

The granite monument is engraved with a likeness of the school as well as the names of principals A.M. Rollins and Willie McDuffie. In front of the monument are three granite pavers bearing the names of notable Mount Holly AfricanAmericans from the Mt. Holly area. The culmination of the project came on Sept. 12, 2009 with an unveiling of the monument and speeches by Mount Holly civic leaders.

Today, Ida Rankin Elementary is where students, black and white, in the Hawthorne St. area of Mount Holly attend classes, but the memory of the Rollins School that was located just a couple of hundred yards down the road, lives on.

Grand Hall scene during the event.

Some of the Rollins School teachers back in the day.

A drawing of the Rollins School.

Mt. Holly mayor Bryan Hough greets Reid.

Reid chatting with a friend.

Photos by John Jacob

This monument in honor of the school stands in front of the Rollins Apartments.

Banner News Fellowship & Faith

Church Directory

G h F W GhFWill

Goshen Free Will Baptist Church

W Catawba Ave • Mt Holly, NC

Employees of Containers/Trailers

Sales & Storage Rental

Sanctuary of Praise Ministries 124 Georgia Belle Ave 980-925-0433

Grace Wesleyan Church 6014 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-7959

Henry’s Chapel Ame Zion Church 151 Henry Chapel Rd 704-825-0711

Hood Memorial AME Zion Church 455 Sacco St. 704-825-6007

Loves Chapel Presbyterian Church 204 Lincoln St. 704-825-8342

BELMONT

Alexander Memorial Baptist Church 208 South Main Street 704-825-3216

Brotherhood/Sisterhood WNCC UMC 120 Park Street 704-825-1333

Catawba Heights Baptist Church 311 Belmont Road 704-827-8474

Christ Church Presbyterian Church 901 Catawba Street 704-461-8614

Core Church 2316 Acme Rd. 704-822-8033

CrossFix Ministries 6131 Wilkinson Blvd. 704-879-4499

Crossroads Church 101 Beaty Rd. 704-827-8381

Centerview Baptist Church 2300 Acme Road 704-827-2061

East Belmont Baptist Church 501 Catawba Street 704-825-5780

East Belmont Church Of God 320 E. Catawba Street 704- 825-8845

East Belmont Free Will Baptist 909 Edgemont Ave 704-825-5346

Ebenezer United Methodist Church 120 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road 704-827-3366

Exodus Church 6325 Wilkinson Blvd. 704-755-5034

First Baptist Church 23 N. Central Avenue 704-825-3758

First Foursquare Gospel Church 8 Elizabeth Street 704-825-5811

First Presbyterian Church 102 S. Central Ave 704-825-3357

First Presbyterian-Belmont 112 S. Central Ave 704-829-0668

First United Methodist Church of Belmont 807 South Point Road 704-825-2106

Fresh Anointing Church of God 71 McAdenville Road 704-825-7283

Friendship Baptist Church 5008 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-3276

Gaston Christian Church 5339 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-8252

Goshen Presbyterian Church Roper Street 704-601-5146

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

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

New Saint Paul Holiness Church 1529 Old Hwy. 27 Rd. 704-827-5851

North Main Baptist Church 1304 N. Main St. 704-827-6141

Redemption Hill Church redemptionmountholly.org Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954

Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly 826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999

Ridgeview Baptist Church 105 Pine Rd. 704-827-3856

River of Life Full Gospel Church 1120 Charlotte Ave. 704-530-5174

Second Baptist Church 740 Rankin Ave. 704-827-5181

Shiloh AME Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826

McAdenville Wesleyan Church 300 E. Wesleyan Dr. 704-824-1073

CRAMERTON

Cramerton Independent Presbyterian Church 151 8th Ave. 704-824-3889

Cramerton Free Will Baptist 416 Woodlawn Ave. 704-824-1745

Cramer Memorial United Methodist Church 154 N. Main St. 704-824-3831

Cramerton Temple of God Church East Wilkinson Blvd. 704-824-5319

First Baptist Church 235 8th Ave. 704-824-1991

Life Church 501 Cramer Mountain Rd. 704-824-4286

Riverside Baptist Church 171 S. Main St. 704-824-7785

West Cramerton United Methodist Church 207 Lowell Ave. 704-824-4213

Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter 216 N. Main St. 704-825-2483

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

Mount Moriah Baptist Church 110 Lincoln St. 704-825-2046

Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist 212 South Street 704-825-7269

New Hope Presbyterian Church 4357 S. New Hope Rd. 704-824-1697

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sanctuary of Praise Ministries 124 Georgia Belle Ave. 704-579-7823

South Point Baptist Church 124 Horsley Ave. 704-825-9516

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

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

Springwood Freewill Baptist 826 Stanley-Spencer Mtn. Rd. 704-827-7801

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

The Pointe 6700 Wilkinson Blvd 704-825-1709

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Family Worship 709 Rankin Ave. 704-671-8640

Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603

Family Worship Center 1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656

Finish Line Christian Center 1792, 108 N. Main St. 704-980-285-8334

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

Goshen Free Will Baptist Church 1300 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-3076

Grace Baptist Church 300 Westland Farm Rd. 704-827-8600

Hickory Grove Baptist Church 3717 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-3939

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

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

Living Witness Ministries 541 Costner St. 704-827-0004

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 110 S. Main St. 704-827-4751

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

Morningside Missionary Church 711 Morningside Dr. 704-822-9142

St. Anthony of Padua Traditional Catholic Church 108 Horseshoe Bend Beach Rd. 704-827-8676

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

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

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

Wesley Chapel Holiness Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-1993

Westview Presbyterian Church 1020 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-2026

LOWELL

Bethlehem Church 3100 Bethlehem Church St. 704-823-5050

Carolina Community Baptist 604 Martha Ave 704-824-2872

Center Baptist Church S. New Hope Rd. 704-824-4121

Epic Church 100 Indian Walk 704-671-4652

Lowell Church of God 804 W. First Street 704-824-3383

Lowell Free Will Baptist Church 3010 Lowell Rd. 704-824-9389

Lowell Smyre United Methodist Church 201 N. Main St. 704-824-8814

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 120 Branch St. 704-824-4535

First Baptist Church of Lowell 400 W. 1st St. 704-824-1215

First Baptist Church 317 W. 1st St. 704-824-1213

New Life Church 128 Robbins St. 704-824-1356

Presbyterian Church of Lowell 207 E. 1st St. 704-824-3807

Restoration Church 1800 Spencer Mountain Rd. 704-824-5250

Woodlawn Baptist Church 1101 N. Main St. 704-824-4261

McADENVILLE

Lakeview Baptist Church 143 Church St. 704-824-5380

McAdenville Baptist Church 192 Main St. 704-824-2740

DALLAS

Gateway Cowboy Church The Barn at Sandcastle Farm 155 Sandcastle Rd.

STANLEY

Amazing Grace Baptist Church 7280 Sifford Rd. 704-827-6277

Christ’s Evangelical Lutheran 203 S. Main St. 704-263-2621

Community Pentecostal Center 320 Ralph Handsel Blvd. 704-263-8731

First United Methodist Church 5481 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-263-2691

First Presbyterian Church 512 Old Mount Holly Rd. 704-263-4275

Gold Hill Missionary Baptist Church 7447 Old Plank Rd. 704-827-7966

New Faith Baptist Church 1224 Mayberry Rd. 704-263-0249

New Life Baptist Church 527 N. Buckoak St. 704-263-4647

Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church 2717 Dallas/Stanley Hwy. 704-263-4406

Springfield Memorial Baptist Church 2920 Dallas-Stanley Highway 704-263-4426

Stanley Church of God 324 N. Main St. 704-263-4041

Stanley Pentecostal Holiness Church 113 E. Parkwood St. 704-263-2131

Trinity Full Gospel Church 303 Sunset Dr. 704-263-9765

United In Action of Stanley 5481 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-524-0555

Welcome Baptist Church 811 Mauney Rd.

BESSEMER CITY

Bright Light Baptist Church 112 White Jenkins Rd. 704-681-2017

Don’t see your church listed?

us today at alan@cfmedia.info

information on getting your business listed here

210 Park Street, Belmont NC 704-825-9861

Senior Night at Stuart Cramer is about family

By John Wilson

Last Friday night the Stuart Cramer High Storm varsity football team hosted the North Gaston Wildcats for Senior Night, the last regular season home game of the season. The game provided the school a chance for one last shout out to all the seniors who helped make Friday night football possible.

This game was important to Cramer for many different reasons. Some sentimental, some based on a bit of football math.

With the playoffs just around the corner, and only two games left in the season every win counts.

Coming off back-to-back loses the Storm needed a win to get back on track in the final run up to the post season.

For the players and coaches game day started long before the 7:30 kickoff.

The team got together right after school let out for a series of meetings and the traditional pre-game meal.

Before each game a different civic group or business sponsors the meal. For the North Gaston game, a youth group from Cramerton Freewill Baptist Church served the meal.

Since it was Senior Night something special was cooked up by the team moms. The seniors had their own table and even chowed down on steak.

After the meal, the team got together to review game assignments and team goals.

Head coach Ben McMillan kicked the meeting off with a power point presentation stressing the importance of family.

The coach explained to the players that Cramer football was about family. He told them that they all shared a special bond. He went on to tell the team that no matter where life took them, they would always be part of the Cramer football family.

“Play for your family,” McMillan said.

One of the highlights of the pre-game meeting was the moment when the team’s 12 seniors got up and addressed their teammates.

The comments ranged from funny to deeply emotional. The seniors told stories and shared memories. Most of all the seniors told their friends to treasure their time together because it would all be over in the blink of an eye.

The most touching address came from senior wide out Tyler Ward. Tyler really

seemed to understand the significance of the moment. At times he struggled to get the words out as he told his teammates just how much everyone in the room meant to him.

His comments were personal and moving. As Ward was finishing up senior quarterback Justin Rocquemore came over and put his arm around his friend’s shoulder and gave him a reassuring hug.

As the pre-game meeting wrapped up the team headed to the field house to suit up. As the players got ready the coaching staff went over final game preparations.

Before the game coach McMillan talked about what he wanted to see as the game unfolded.

“I want our team to keep getting better and play a complete game,” McMillan said. “It’s kind of the playoffs now. We have to take care of business to make sure we get in.”

Before kickoff the players, cheerleaders and dance

team seniors lined up on the sidelines along with their parents for a moment to be recognized. The band seniors would be honored as well during halftime.

After all the pre-game activity wrapped up it was football time.

On the opening drive the Storm marched down the field with a mix of short passes and runs. Justin Rocquemore punched in the first points of the game off of a 10-yard run. A Drew Crotts PAT would put Cramer up 7-0.

Cramer would go on to put up 21 first half points. However, by all accounts they should have put up more.

Defensively Cramer was stout. The Wildcats never mounted a serious drive. In fact, the Storm defense even gave the offense a few short field opportunities that never planned out.

Miscues and turnovers stalled promising drives deep in Wildcat territory.

At halftime coach McMillan went into the locker room and fired the team up.

Cramer may have been up 21-0 but coach McMillan thought the team needed to play better. The missed opportunities were not something he would overlook. So, he laid down the law.

McMillan told the team that it was time started playing to their potential.

“We have to quit shooting ourselves in the foot,” McMillan went on to say. “We’re better than that.”

time forcing a turnover when Brison Bazemore dislodged the ball and freshman Chris Wurster recovered the fumble deep in North Gaston territory.

It was clear that the Storm defense had heeded the call, now it was time for the offense to step up and show what they could do.

42-0. At that time coach McMillan started to pull his starters and rotate players.

By the time the game ended the atmosphere on the Storm sideline was electric. Players hugged, jumped around and celebrated a wellearned victory.

The Stuart Cramer High Storm varsity football team tangled with the North Gaston Wildcats last Friday evening. When the final buzzer buzzed, the Storm had skinned the cats 42-0. Here are some great scenes from the cool evening contest.

Photos by Bill Bostick/Tarheel Sports Photography

Coach McMillan’s locker room speech must have hit home because when the Storm took the field for the second half the team played with a renewed sense of urgency.

That sense of urgency was on full display when on North Gaston’s first drive of the quarter John Hall picked off a Wildcat pass and took it 35 yards for a score. That TD, and a Drew Crotts kick put Cramer up 28-0 with only 58 seconds having come off the clock.

When the Wildcats got the ball back the Storm defense stuffed them yet again. This

In the first half Cramer squandered their short field opportunities. This time the offense capitalized on the great field position. It wasn’t long before Justin Rocquemore connected with Tyler Ward on a 16-yard touchdown pass. After another Crotts PAT the Storm was up 35-0.

In the third quarter everything really came together for Cramer. In less than five minutes the Storm had generated two turnovers and a pair of touchdowns. Before the quarter ended Cramer would score 21 unanswered points.

The final points of the third came off a beautiful Rocquemore 46-yard bomb to Hunter Dye.

As the game rolled into the fourth quarter Cramer was up

As everyone started to leave the field the story comes back to senior Tyler Ward.

Before the game Ward stood in front of his teammates and told them all how important they were to him.

After the game those feelings were still alive as he recapped the events of the game.

“It was an emotional game,” Ward said. “I love this school; I love my teammates. It’s a fun night, a fun night to play out here one more time, and hopefully maybe if things work out, we can be back in a few weeks.”

Ward’s heartfelt comments before and after the game truly encapsulate what Stuart Cramer’s Senior Night was all about. One last chance to be with family.

See more on page 12.

Photos by Lydia Julen

Jennifer Brock helps with the Senior Night pre-game meal. It’s a Cramer tradition on this day for the seniors to have thier own table and to feast on steak. The rest of the team had a grilled chicken dinner graciously provided by Cramerton Free Will Baptist Church. Photo by John Wilson

Gaston Schools Good News, October 2022

A group of high school students from Gaston County Schools attended the Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) trade show at the Charlotte Convention Center. The students learned about apprenticeship opportunities and visited company representatives.

As part of the ‘NC Countdown to College’ effort, high school juniors and seniors in Gaston County Schools visited with representatives from more than 70 colleges and universities at the Carolinas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (CACRAO) college fair, which was held on September 26-27 at Gaston College.

During N.C. High School Athletic Association’s Region 6 meeting in Concord, Gaston County Schools had three high schools – Bessemer City, East Gaston, and South Point – to be honored for their commitment to good sportsmanship.

The schools were ejection-free during the 2021-2022 school year.

During Fire Prevention Week, the Gastonia Fire Department created and reviewed fire escape plans with students at Brookside Elementary, Sadler Elementary, and Sherwood Elementary.

On October 11, Pinewood Elementary conducted a ceremony to celebrate the opening of the school’s new outdoor classroom. The project was completed as a tribute to Patsy Norwood, who taught at the school for more than 20 years. The Norwood family, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, and Bank of America worked with the school to make the outdoor classroom a reality.

WCNC-TV had a story about the 2022 National Blue Ribbon School winners in the Charlotte area. The report featured W.A. Bess Elementary and an elementary school in Fort Mill.

Norman “Trip” McGill, the retired choral director at Ashbrook High School, will be honored in November as a member of the North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) High School Choral Section Hall of Fame.

Ashbrook High School senior Isaac Londeree was selected to participate in the North Carolina Music Educators Association’s (NCMEA) high school honors chorus.

The Ashbrook High School Green Wave Marching Regiment Band performed at the Mount Pleasant Showcase of Champions, and won second place in the music, percussion, and drum major categories. Overall, the band placed third in the competition. In addition, the band received the following awards at the North Gaston Wildcat Invitational: third place overall; first place, percussion; second place, color guard; and first place, drum major. The band director is

Interest in basketball results in South Point athlete playing in Thailand

Preston Howell does not let his physical condition get in the way of achieving his goals.

The South Point High School senior recently returned from playing in the Wheelchair Basketball World Championships in Thailand where he helped lead the United States U23 team to a sixth-place overall finish against the top teams in the world.

“It was a wonderful experience and privilege to represent the best country in the world,” said Howell, who played in five contests, including one game where he scored 13 points. “There was some great competition, and we had plenty of time to see tourist attractions such as the floating markets and beaches.”

However, what was more meaningful to Howell was the send off he received from his school. Prior to him leaving for Thailand, students and staff lined the sidewalk to cheer him on.

“I was ecstatic to see everyone,” Howell smiled. “It caught me by surprise, but it meant the world to me to have my fellow classmates and teachers rooting for me.”

Howell points out that he was not too sure of wheelchair basketball when he was introduced to the sport at the age of seven.

“A friend’s mother took me to watch the women’s Team USA team train in the Charlotte area,” said Howell, who currently plays locally for the Charlotte Rollin’ Hornets. “I was scared to death, but I went to a practice a month later and fell in love with the sport.”

Howell was born with skeletal dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder that causes abnormal developments of bones, joints, and cartilage.

“I’ve had numerous leg and jaw surgeries,” he said. “I also have a rod in my back, right femur, and left tibia, in addition to the screws in my hips.”

While most athletes have normal arm, leg, and hand function, wheelchair basketball presents challenges, according to Howell.

“Chair skills are super important,” he explained. “How fast can you accelerate, control your chair, and turn – you also need upper-body strength to shoot the basketball in a sitting position.”

Wheelchair basketball takes up most of his time, but he also enjoys serving as the team manager for the South Point boys basketball team.

“Preston is an amazing young man,’’ said South Point coach Kody Kubbs. “During practice, he often participates in individual drills and helps me instruct the players on the floor. Additionally, whenever there is something that needs to be done at practice, whether it be getting water, collecting basketballs, or

any other task, Preston is always on it.”

Kubbs added, “During games, Preston does our shot chart, which is a vital part of my in-game coaching. I trust Preston to keep the chart, and it is always done accurately. I have really enjoyed having Preston be a part of the team and am excited for his future in the sport.”

That future in the sport includes playing wheelchair basketball for either the University of Alabama or Auburn University. Howell, who plans to study business or computer science, will be eligible for the national team again in 2025 should he decide to continue pursuing his dream.

“I am grateful for the opportunities and the people who helped me in this journey,” he said. “It’s kind of unreal the way I’m able to travel and have fun.”

Josh Westbrook.

Belmont Middle School student Daylin Santana placed third in the Mount Holly Plein Air paint-out event.

The Bessemer City High School marching band placed second overall in the Class 1A category at the Enka Land of the Sky Competition on September 24. The band director is Cole Crawford.

Bessemer City High School resource officer Jeff Thompson was awarded the Gaston County Police Department’s Chief Commendation for 2022.

Brookside Elementary school principal Jaime Wallace was awarded the Gaston County Economic Development Agency’s 2022 Women Who Rock Award. In addition, the school received a donation of school supplies from American & Efird.

Carr Elementary kindergarten teacher Katherine “Katie” Byrd was selected as Gaston County Schools’ nominee for the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching’s (NCCAT) Beginning Teacher of the Year Award.

First United Methodist Church of Dallas donated balls for recess to each classroom at Carr Elementary.

In partnership with the Dallas Police Department, Carr Elementary students participated in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day.

Catawba Heights Elementary received seven boxes of books from the UPS store in Belmont. In addition, the school received school supply donations from the Stowe YMCA and Catawba Heights Baptist Church.

Hoopaugh Grading Company donated a spirit rock to Catawba Heights Elementary.

Cherryville High School athletic director Scott Harrill received the Region 6 Charlie Adams Distinguished Service Award, which is presented by the N.C. High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA). The award, which is named for the long-time former NCHSAA director, is presented to an individual in each region with at least 10 years of experience in education and athletics who goes above and beyond the call of duty to support students and their participation in high school athletics.

East Gaston High School senior Mabry Robinson completed the Certified Nurse Aide I state exam and is one of five students in the school’s Health Sciences Academy to pass the CNA exam this school year.

East Gaston High School senior Kathryn Meranto was selected to participate in the North Carolina Music Educators Association’s (NCMEA) high school honors chorus.

The East Gaston High School marching band received the following awards at the North Gaston Wildcat Invitational: second place, musical performance; second place, drum major; first place, general effect; first place in Class 2A; and grand champion in Class 1A/2A.

W.C. Friday Middle School

students programmed remotecontrolled cars and drones as part of a two-day presentation by BetaBox Learning.

The Forestview High School marching band placed first in the color guard, drum major, and percussion categories and took third place overall in its classification at the Tournament of Champions competition. The band also performed at the North Gaston Wildcat Invitational and placed first in visual performance, first in color guard, and first in drum major and took overall third place in the competition.

As members of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA)’s Student Advisory Council, Emma Taylor of Forestview High School and Ben Kimmel of Hunter Huss High School represented Gaston County Schools at the Region 6 meeting.

Gaston Virtual Academy students Pandora Childs, Adryauna Davis, and Jahari White were accepted into the ExperiMentors program that is offered through the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS). As participants in the program, they meet virtually with peers and scientists from around the state. In addition, they complete hands-on experiments at home, and at the end of the eight-week program, they have the opportunity to go behind the scenes at the NCMNS, meet museum curators, and camp overnight inside the museum.

In partnership with Keep Gastonia Beautiful, students from the Gaston Early College High School volunteered at the Highland Community Garden. The students removed weeds, made flower bouquets, prepped the planting beds for the fall, and cleaned out a utility shed.

In partnership with the Gaston Literacy Council, students from the Gaston Early College High School are participating in the Reading Soul Mates program with second grade students at Carr Elementary.

Grier Middle School observed National Hispanic Heritage Month with several celebratory activities. One activity featured English as a Second Language teacher Melanie DiPietro selecting students to read, in both English and Spanish, about famous people during the morning announcements.

Highland School of Technology students Carlos Pitalua and Kent Kido won art awards at the Cleveland County Fair. Pitalua won ribbons in the following categories: first place, black and white still life; second place, color wildlife; and third place, animal personality. Kido won a second place ribbon for a color landscape photograph.

Mount Holly Middle School was recognized as a National Beta Club School of Merit. The prestigious honor is given to schools that display dedication to academic excel-

lence, leadership development, and service involvement.

Mount Holly Middle School beta club students assisted in the cleanup of the Mount Holly community garden.

Page Primary School sponsored a dance-a-thon and raised more than $50,000 for new playground equipment.

Rankin Elementary formally dedicated its outdoor classroom space during the school’s 50th anniversary celebration last spring.

Sherwood Elementary held a family engagement program on September 15. The school’s P.T.O. planned the program in collaboration with the Schiele Museum. Educators from the museum presented a live animal program and families participated in a crafting activity.

The South Point High School marching band received the following awards at the North Gaston Wildcat Invitational: first place, percussion; second place, visual effect; first place, music; and second place in Class 2A. The band director is Tim Hamilton.

South Point High School senior Henry Eisenhuth was named a Commended Student in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program.

South Point High School senior Sullivan Absher was selected for the 2022 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. The all-star football game that features the best high school players from North Carolina and South Carolina will be played on December 17 at Spartanburg High School.

South Point High School sophomore James Dover was named to the North Carolina Tennis Coaches Association’s all-state boys tennis team for 2022. As a freshman, Dover was named the Big South 3A Conference MVP, finished undefeated in both singles and doubles, and reached the final four at the state tournament.

Stanley Middle School students Samantha Franke, Emily Brooks, Lillyan Wall, and Katelyn Smith were selected to participate in the prestigious state honors chorus. More than 600 students from across North Carolina auditioned, and Stanley Middle School is the only middle school in Gaston County to have students chosen for the state middle school chorus. In addition, thirteen students performed in the North Carolina Sings program at Duke University on October 8. The chorus teacher is Nyi Nyi Myin.

Webb Street School partnered with the Gaston County Schools Communications Department to produce a video that brings attention to the school’s aquaponics and greenhouse programs.

Tarik Cranke of the Cranke Marketing Agency spoke to the drone club at York Chester Middle School about developing skills such as photo editing and content development through social media.

The York Chester Middle School cafeteria staff received a perfect 100 sanitation grade.

Gaston Schools story/photo

Preston Howell

Belmont Middle School county football champs

After being down 12-6 at halftime, the Belmont Middle School Wildcats fought back in the second half to build a 27-12 lead over the Holbrook Lions. Holbrook scored twice within the last two minutes of the game, but with 20 seconds to go and trying to convert a 2-point conversion, the Wildcats defense rose up and

stopped the Lion runner short of the goal line to preserve a 27-26 victory.

This is Belmont Middle School’s 10th conference title and 6th since 1999.

Belmont last won the conference title in 2016 over Mount Holly, 43-8 when Danny Green was the head coach.

This is Carey Galbreath’s first season as Belmont’s head coach and first title.

Photos/report by Calvin Craig

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th day of June as Executor of the Estate of Thomas J. Cauthen; aka, Thomas J. Cauthen, Jr., deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Tommy E. Cauthen, Executor, on or before the 5th day of January, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of October, 2022.

Tommy E. Cauthen, Executor

Estate of Thomas J. Cauthen; aka, Thomas J. Cauthen, Jr. 1730 Rhyne Road Dallas, NC 28034

CE (10/05, 12, 19 & 26/2022)

BN (10/06, 13, 20 & 27/2022)

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th day of October, 2022 as Administrator CTA of the Estate of PAULA SIMPSON SMITH; AKA, PAULA JEAN SMITH, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Brenton S. Begley, Administrator CTA, on or before the 26th of January, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 26th day of October, 2022.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator CTA

Estate of: Paula Simpson Smith; aka, Paula Jean Smith McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

CE (10/26, 11/02, 09 & 16/2022)

BN (10/27, 11/03, 10/2022)

National Network Classified Ads

LEGAL NOTICE

COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF MARY WILLIE HILL

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Willie Hill, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 106 North Cherry Street, Cherryville, North Carolina, on or before the 19th day of January, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 19th day of October, 2022.

Matthew Greenway

Executor

Counsel for the Estate:

PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR.

ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street

Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (10/19, 26, 11/02 & 09/2022)

BN (10/20, 27, 11/03 & 10/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF FRANCES ABERNATHY WOMACK

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Frances Abernathy Womack; aka, Mary Frances Abernathy Womack, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 106 North Cherry Street, Cherryville, North Carolina, on or before the 5th day of January, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the under-signed.

This the 5th day of October, 2022.

Lisa Womack Greenway

Executrix

Counsel for the Estate:

PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW

North Cherry Street

19 & 26/2022)

BN (10/06, 13, 20 & 27/2022)

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Advisory:

Stuart Cramer High Storm varsity vs North Gaston Wildcats.

Photos by Bill Bostick/Tarheel Sports Photography

South

The East Gaston Warriors JV football team hosted the Shelby High Golden Lions squad last Thursday. The Golden Lions roared and clawed their way to a 49-0 win. Here are some

The South Point Red Raiders varsity football team hosted the Forestview High Jaguars last Friday. It was the Red Raider’s homecoming game and they prevailed 42-7. Gabby Collins was named homecoming queen. Meredith Parnell was awarded the Joe Steele Fan Appreciation Award. Here are some shots from the festive evening. Photos by Calvin Craig/Superraiders

FALL FAMILY FUN NIGHT OCT., SAT. 29TH @ 4PM at CORNERSTONE CHURCH OF GOD 202 MARGRACE RD., KINGS MTN. Gospel Ventriloquist Team. David and Rusty Min. FREE>>Hotdogs and Refreshments, treats for kids. (704) 6894430 cornerstonecog2016@ gmail.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TOY SHOW & COLLECTIBLES. Saturday, November 5th, Old Mooresboro School Gym, 308 Main Street, Mooresboro, NC 28114, 9:00AM-3:00PM. Admission $5, under 10 free; $30 setup fee, limit 3 tables, bring your own table, setup time 7:00AM9:00AM. Call 828-351-8822 or 704-692-7702.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

BOOK SALE. FRIENDS OF THE CLEVELAND COUNTY LIBRARY ARE HAVING THEIR FALL BOOK SALE NOVEMBER 4, 2022 FROM 10 AM - 5 PM AND NOVEMBER 5, 2022 FROM 10 AM - 2 PM AT THE EUGENIA H. YOUNG MEMORIAL LIBRARY. PLEASE COME BY FOR GREAT BOOKS AT GREAT PRICES! ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE LIBRARY. (704) 472-0521 JONES.BETSYH@GMAIL. COM

EMPLOYMENT

NEED A PARTS SALESPERSON. Auto Parts of Shelby. 1021 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152 704-487-5234.

PART-TIME HELP needed on chicken farm near Casar area. 704-692-8752.

EMPLOYMENT

ONE ON ONE CARE is hiring for full/part time in the group homes for 2nd shift. Transport experience recommended not required. Hrs are 2p-11p weekdays and 8p-8a weekends. Apply in person at 203 Lee St., Shelby

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704473-4299. (704) 473-4299

COMPLETE CARE INC. Is seeking CNAs / In Home Aides for Cleveland and Gaston Counties. Apply M-F, 8am-4pm at 404 W. Warren St, Shelby, NC 28150 or call (704) 480-9340

BUSINESS SERVICES

HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE AGENTS, need a little work? Jackson Corbin Property Services, LLC. Specializing in small jobs/punch list. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, tile, etc. Need a hand for a day or two? Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICES. Exterior painting only. We also stain decks. Free estimates. You will be pleased with our work. We have references. 828-287-9272. (828) 4297511

YARD BUDDY. Outdoor work such as trimming bushes, small trees, spraying weeds, gutter cleaning. General property clean-up. No grass cutting or leaves. Serving Shelby & Cleveland County. (980) 295-0750

STORAGE UNITS AND SMALL CLEANOUTS Need a storage unit or room cleaned out? We specialize in a quick and easy mainly storage junk removal. We take all the necessary steps to remove, recycle or donate all the items we can. We’re a locally owned and operated company. We take pride in donating items back into our community and helping our environment by recycling. Serving Cleveland and Gaston County and surrounding areas. CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! 1-661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@live.com

ANTIQUES

UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, MORE. Tuesday-Saturday 11am-4pm. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on FB. 828-382-0075.

FOR SALE

DECORATIONS FOR SALE. Christmas and Fall Wreaths with other decorations and crafts. 200 Lutz Rd, Lawndale. 704-5383808.

2 BLUE RECLINERS for sale. $100 for both. Call 704-685-2507.

DARK PLUM WITH GOLD CAVIAR Beaded top. Size 12. Mother or grandmother of bride or groom. Paid $200, Sell $100. (704) 482-1940

2007, 26’ ENCLOSED CAR TRAILER. Electric winch, battery or 110 conversion, overhead toolboxes. Black with aluminum rims. $6,800 o.b.o. (203) 509-4808

FREE PIANO. ANTIQUE PIANO with beautiful detail. Tuned several years ago but would probably need tuning again. Must pick up. (704) 692-6636

USED WAREHOUSE SHELVING. Used file cabinets, desks and chairs. Warehouse scale and other warehouse miscellaneous items. (704) 477-8277

FALL HARVEST SALE/AUCTION. Sat. Nov. 12, breakfast 8am, auction 9am. Big Springs Church; 534 Big Springs Church Rd, Ellenboro NC 28040.

LOOKING FOR A DEPENDABLE PERSON. For help on a well boring machine. Includes installing submersible pumps. General knowledge of hand tools is a plus. If interest call or text Tony. 704-740-6604

NEED A CAR DISMANTLER. Auto Parts of Shelby. Apply in person at 1021 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152 704487-5234 (704) 472-4666

CARPENTER/HANDY MAN to remodel rentals. Pay based on experience. 336-225-1050.

DYNAMIC TREE EXPERTS LLC Dependable and affordable tree service. Trimming, elevations, clean outs, deadwooding and removal. ISA certified. (980) 475-0727 dynamicservicesnc@ gmail.com

BIG A’S HANDYMAN SERVICES. AUTOMOTIVE, ELECTRICAL, WOODWORKING, PLUMBING AND MUCH MORE. (704) 284-2964 ANTHONYDIMARCO59@GMAIL.COM

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

16 FT. METAL WALK BOARD for sale - $200. Call: 704-5307576.

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD SERVICE. Green oak. Cut, split and delivered. $85. 828-395-0758

SHOW OFF YOUR INNER ANIMAL. Shop Now for Beautiful All Over Print Apparel at Local Online Mall - NC4Ever.com TheUncleBobby@mail.com

METAL ROOFING IN STOCK! Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

FOR SALE

STORE FIXTURES FOR CLOTHING STORE. On sale. 4 way & 2 way racks, showcases, plastic bodies, mannequins & much more. (828) 980-2231

JET 2 POWER CHAIR DL5.2I Dynamic, built-in charger, excellent battery, $750. Will deliver if needed. (828) 657-4167

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD Small seasoned hardwood mix for small wood stoves. Cut, split, delivered $85/load. 828-3950758.

GENERAC POWER GENERATOR. Cash Only! Generac XG 10000E 10,000 running watts, less than 1 hr, runs great, 4 prong 240 volts plug wire extra air filters, oil filter, spark plugs, 2 cylinder Generac engine (828) 208-2932

WHITE WHIRLPOOL DUET. Front loading washer and dryer with attached drawer pedestals. $1,500 or OBO. 704-674-8587 (Leave Message.)

HORSE QUALITY HAY. Square and round bales. Call (704) 4876855

FIREWOOD Seasoned 95% Oak. S10 load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704435-3970 or 704-458-3081.

TWO GRAVE LOTS FOR SALE. Gaston Memorial Park. Military Part near flag. $3,000 each. 704825-3283 or 704-214-3196

METAL CAGES FOR FIREWOOD, ETC $25. BURNING BARRELS $15; FEED BARRELS WITH LIDS & RINGS $20; TOTES $75 - $100; SOLID TOP METAL DRUMS $15; SOLID TOP PLASTIC BARRELS $10. Call Jeff in Hickory (828) 3274782

I LOVE U REFRIGERATOR MAGNET. I Love U Smile Fun Refrigerator Magnets available at NC4Ever.com TheUncleBobby@ mail.com GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or 704-297-0103

DON’T MISS Masquerade Ball Old Dunbar School. Must Be 21. 421 Hardin Road Forest City. BYOB, Food will be Served ! Music By DJ Rocket, Door Prizes For Best Dressed. 2 Different Drawing, The Thriller Dance. Fun Fun.

TECHNICIAN TRAINEE. Locally based Surface Specialists is looking to hire a technician to deliver service to commercial and residential customers in Western NC. Job will provide repair and refinishing to surfaces (eg, tubs, showers, sinks, counter tops and vinyl windows). Requires valid license, pick up truck, hand tools & color perception. Paid training and expense reimbursement. (828) 245-6375 ssblueridge@ yahoo.com

CLASS A CDL DRIVER NEEDED. to go to Midwest, Mississippi and Florida. 704-740-9238.

HANDYMAN NEEDED. Handyman needed on a job in Rutherfordton for one day. Monday or Tuesday. Basic plumbing and household electrical and wood framing skills needed. Basically you will be relocating water pressure tank and sediment filter from crawl space to attached shed 6-10 feet away from present location. No digging required. Also trouble shooting 2 water hydrants in the yard. Reasonably good pay, refreshments, drink and facilities available. BYO Tools. I have some if needed. (574) 229-3631

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704-477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

SENIOR HELPER CNA 20 years experience. Looking for work. I do home care. Personal care, errands, appointments, grocery shopping, cooking, and light house keeping. Please call 828-974-1111 and leave a message in the Evening or email lora3_4@yahoo.com. In Shelby area (828) 974-1111 lora3_4@yahoo.com

ESTATE SALE, SATURDAY, NOV. 5, 2022 from 8:00 AM5:00 p.m. ESTATE SALE. EVERYTHING MUST GO, BOOKS, CRAFTS, CLOTHES, DISHES, FURNITURE, GARDEN SUPPLIES, AND MUCH MORE!!! GREAT PRICES AND BULK DEALS. MUST CLEAN OUT THE HOUSE. 2058 FALLSTON ROAD, SHELBY, NC 28150 (704) 907-4113 loradonoghue@gmail. com

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

ALL TRAILERS CASH, FINANCE, CREDIT CARDS or RENT TO OWN. J Johnson Sales Forest City, NC. Thursday - Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-12. Ph. (828) 245-5895

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPO’S. LARGE SELECTION! CASH or RENT TO OWN. NO CREDIT CHECK! J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 South, Forest City ThursdayFriday 10-5 Saturday 10-12 (828) 245-5895

NEW USED REPO BUILDINGS Thursday - Friday 10-5 Sat. 1012 J Johnson Sales 2690 US Hwy 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

STEEL CARPORTS & GARAGES 12 wide, 18, 20, 22, 24 & 30 wides on display. Large onsite display. J Johnson Sales Forest City 2690 Hwy 221 South. Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. Ph.(828) 245-5895

100 NEW CEMENT BLOCKS. $2.20 each. (704) 418-0990

ITEMS FOR SALE. Over One Hundred Novels mostly Western & New $1.00 Each, LG Washer-$50 & Dryer (Washer Needs Work) Dryer “Like New” $250, Upright Piano $400. 704-8255701. (704) 825-5701

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

COINS * COINS * COINS. We Buy & Sell Coins. “Coin Collector Supplies.” JAKE’S KNIVES & COLLECTIBLES. 1008 South Lafayette Street, Shelby. Call 704600-6996 (980) 295-5568

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN for Lanier Pointe Apartments in Shelby. Painting, cleaning, carpentry, routine maintenance, some knowledge of plumbing and electrical helpful. Must have reliable transportation and valid drivers license. EOE. Please call for more info. Resumes may be emailed to: lanierpointeapts@ gmail.com (704) 480-5982

TRIPLE D PAINTING, LLC. All your painting needs. Free estimates. Over 25 yrs experience! Facial board replacement available!!! Making your home, building or business look new again. (704) 418-5736 childresstracy1@ gmail.com

EB MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & reliable. (704) 300-2332

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 532-1587

CLEARWATER CREEK COMMUNITY YARD SALE. CLEARWATER CREEK SUBDIVISION YARD SALE. SAT., OCT 29TH FROM 8AM TILL 12PM. THOMPSON ROAD GATE WILL BE OPEN. CLEARWATER PARKWAY COMMUNITY CENTER. PARK ON THE ROAD AND WALK DOWN. ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, CLOTHES, LOTS MORE! Rutherfordton, NC 28139 (850) 319-8798 jazzinpc@gmail.com

ANTIQUES

THERMOMETERS, MATCH HOLDERS, CAROLINA FREIGHT COLLECTION, much more. (704) 460-5638

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve: 704-4728865; Todd: 704-692-1627

RENT TO OWN TRAILERS. ENCLOSED, DUMP, GOOSENECK, CAR HAULERS. Thursdays - Fridays 10-5, Sat. 10-12. J Johnson Sales, inc. (828) 245-5895

HOME BUILT HUNTING DOG CARRIER. Well built - 48 inches wide - 38.5 inches deep - 19 inches tall $35.00 Forest City,NC (828) 429-4924

2021 PRIDE 4 w/scooter, w/ lift/carrier. $1400 or OBO. 704884-5428.

10X12 METAL GAZEBO FRAME with all instructions and hardware. $75. 704-472-8157.

JAZZY SELECT 6 $475. Mobility chair, delivered, warranty & charger. 245 lb wt capacity. Call Scooterman John. New and used chairs from $350.00 to $1600.00. Wt limits of 145 lbs to 450 lbs (704) 951-4224 mobilityservices07@gmail.com

FOR SALE

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 538-5788

ALL METAL GARAGES. Big Discounts! Zero down. Call for more details. 828-382-0455.

NEW AND USED DOG CRATES. Small to 30 inches. $5.00 to $30.00. Call 828-748-7527.

FOUR CEMETERY PLOTS. Located at Cleveland Memorial Park in Shelby, NC. All four plots are next to sidewalk at the Bell Tower “Great Location”. $1250 each or all four $4500. call (704) 466-8295

PORTABLE GENERATOR Champion generator run for only 1 hour. Model 100340 bought new. 6875 Starting Watts/5500 Running Watts. Recoil start. $450 Call (704) 259-3694 mjimison@carolina.rr.com

4 GRAVES CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PARK Best Offer! Four graves- Lot 71 in Section 7 at Cleveland Memorial Park. Prime location next to sidewalk and close to fountain. Call for details (252) 432-4105

RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828-9800853, 704-476-9383.

LOST & FOUND

GOLD CROSS PEN LOST in or around Shelby, NC, engraved with the following “Happy Mothers Day”. Reward, $50. (301) 875-6230

WANT TO BUY

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/ OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 4720006

WE BUY JUNK VEHICLES WE BUY JUNK CARS, TRUCKS AND VANS, PAYING CASH!!!! (704) 6928496

CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-6926767, (704) 487-0228

I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197

WANT TO BUY CARS, TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006

WANT TO BUY

WANT TO BUY SET of Steel Barbell Weights. (704) 4349253

WANT TO BUY. ATV’s, Pop-Up Campers and Small Travel Trailers. Call 828-429-3935.

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-2891488.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MALTIPOO FOR SALE. 16 weeks old. Our older dog has not accepted the puppy so we need to find “Luna” a loving home. Call 828-437-6994 or 828-413-4712 (828) 437-6994

GOLDEN DOODLE PUPPIES. Dewormed, have first shots, ready October 1. $500each. Henry Miller; 1608 Walls Church Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040.

MILL-SEC K9 HALF BELGIUM MALINOIS, Half German Shepherd puppies for sale. $500. 828755-7335.

AKC REGISTERED LABRADOR RETRIEVER PUPPIES. Born 9/17/22. Will be ready November 5. First shots and wormed. Both parents on site. Chocolate, yellow and black. Now taking $200 deposits. Call or text 828-429-0210.

LOOKING FOR SMALL DOG Want to buy a chihuahua or any small dog at a reasonable price. 704-750-3318.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

DEER HUNTERS! IF YOU LOSE your deer after shooting, call me! Girley Girl, my red bone hound should find your deer. 828-447-3069.

CARS & TRUCKS

2004 CHRYSLER SEBRING. 4 door sedan, new paint, struts & tires. $4500. Also. 4’6”x6’ utility trailer, $275. (704) 472-7116

1998 HONDA PRELUDE. $1,400 firm. New tires. After market front end. Call for extras. 828-2179249.

CAMPERS

REAL ESTATE

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

2BR, 2BA, 1100SF, heat pump, 10 acres partly wooded, rolling, secluded, pond. $249,000. Text 828-919-1477 or leave message. Additional 14 acres available. 342 Right Prong Road, Ellenboro, NC. Ellenboro, NC 28040

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

SHIHTZU, POODLE AND SHIHPOO PUPPIES. Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, Shorkie, Shorkiepoo and Shihpoo Puppies For Sale! Quail Hollow Puppies has affordable small breed, hypoallergenic non shedding Puppies. All of our puppies are up to date on shots and wormings and very well socialized and loved!! Please Call 828-569-9807 or visit www. quailhollowpuppies.com (828) 569-9807 juliecarr42@yahoo. com

MALTIPOO PUPPIES FOR SALE. $500 cash. Call 704-4776762

DOG KENNELS & DOG HOUSES. Dog kennels 10x10x6, 10x20x6, Dog Houses 8x12, 10x16 Delivered & Installed Available. J Johnson Sales Thursday & Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-2. Ph. (828) 245-5895

2021 GEO PRO 19FBS FORSALE. Gently used 2021 Geo Pro G19FBS camper, front kitchen. Located in Shelby, NC. A great size for one to two people. Sleeps three when using the pull out sofa. Full bath, three burner propane stove, stainless steel sink, full size bed, AC, propane furnace, TV, Wi-Fi booster, power tongue jack, power awing, power slide out, off-road axle/wheels. $20k. Selling as is. Text or phone 803-422-2985. (803) 422-2985

SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMPGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal Sites. (704) 435-0938

VACATIONS

CKC YORKSHIRE TERRIER PUPPIES. 3 males, 2 females, in home raised, tails docked, dewclaws removed, vet checked, 1st shots, dewormed, come with puppy care package, papers/records, & adorable portrait. Ready to go 10/26/2022. $1500 (704) 692-3698

LOOKING FOR A SHI-TZU. Call anytime of day. (704) 418-4532

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. Ready to go. All shots UTD. For more info, contact Ronnie (704) 974-2716

HUSKY PUPPIES! BORN SEPTEMBER 3, 2022. $500. HUSKIES (MALES & FEMALES AVAILABLE.) PLEASE HAVE A FENCED YARD. CATAWBA COUNTY, NC (828) 446-5855 BRIDEWITHTHEOIL@GMAIL. COM

SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal Sites. (704) 435-0938

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-718-2659.

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

FORMER RESTAURANT. 2 dining rooms, 2 kitchens, 2 storage rooms, 2 walk-in refrigerator/ freezer, 2 bathrooms, 1 office/ bath with shower, 24x24 outside deck, 40 parking spaces. Ask about 1,540SF living area with 5BR, 2BA. 828-453-0828. 1144

East Stage Coach Trail, Lawndale, NC 28090

TAKING APPLICATIONS: FOR RENT CABIN on Broad River south of Boiling Springs. 1 bedroom, 1 bath, $700 monthly plus deposit. No smoker. No pets. 704-473-0867

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE HAS 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, (704) 482-7723

3 BEDROOM DOUBLEWIDE AND 3 BEDROOM SINGLEWIDE mobile homes for rent. $875 and $850 per month. (828) 234-8147

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby NC or call for more information 704-487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704739-0259.

GASTON COUNTY

AMERICAN BRITTANY PUPPIES FOR SALE. CHAMPION BLOODLINES 4 WEEKS OLD. READY FOR NEW HOMES ON NOV 10, 2022. ORANGE AND WHITE, VET CHECKED, WILL BE UP TO DATE ON VACCINATIONS. CALL FOR DETAILS, ASK FOR BEN. (704) 472-3652 BRITMAN657@YAHOO.COM

LABRADOODLE PUPPIES DOB 7/10/22. NO SHEDDING, HYPOALLERGENIC, GREAT WITH KIDS AND OTHER PETS. TEXT FOR PICTURES. 864-492-2880 (864) 492-2880

ARMCCRAW@YAHOO.COM

GERMAN SHEPHERD MALE PUPPY. 4 months old, European blood lines, will mature to 100 pounds plus. 40 years experience with Shepherds. $300. 828-429-0053 or 828-748-9238.

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/ OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 4720006

HICKORY CREEK APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS. (62 and older), disabled (50 and older). Shelby. Now taking applications for waiting list. 418 East Warren Street, (704) 4876354

MOBILE HOMES & APARTMENTS. In Kings Mountain. P. Call (704) 739-4417

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 473-4299

GASTONIA-RENT LOCAL OFFICE SPACE. Great location behind the library, 4 offices, break room, front end reception area, and waiting room. $1250 a month plus utilities. Call Zeus Realty at (980) 989-7316

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

COZY UPGRADED MOBILE.

2-Bedroom, one full, one-1/2 bath. Large private lot off road. Includes fridge and range. No pets, no smoking, no exceptions. $600 mo. Email exxona@yahoo. com for pictures.

LARGE CLASSY MOBILE.

2-Bedroom 2 full baths, storage room, spacious private lot. No other mobiles. New plush carpet, master bath. Fridge and new range included. No pets. No smoking. No exceptions. $800 mo. Email exxona@yahoo.com for pictures.

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $550 per month. 828382-0475.

AKC AKITA PUPPIES. Full registration, no additional cost. Serious inquiries only. 1 male, 1 female. 704-974-7041

MILL-SEC K9 OBEDIENCE TRAINING. Starting at $35.00. Rutherford County area. Board and train options available. (828) 755-7335

CARS & TRUCKS

2018 KIA SOUL. White, Only 13,500 miles, Factory warranty in effect til April 2023, Navigation System, Backup Camera, 4 Cylinder, Alloys, USB, Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, $15,500. Call (704) 750-4472

2011 FORD FUSION SEL. Aluminum wheels, good tires. $,5950. 828-287-3820.

Connect the Dots: It’s all about Him It’s Backwards

By Dennis Siracusa

In 1967, while studying architecture at Southern Illinois University, I was introduced to Gothic architecture from the 12th to 16th century. The vaulted arches, buttresses, stained-glass, and brass rubbings were surprising and intriguing. Even back then, however, with virtually no religious experience, I was perplexed by Gargoyle statues on churches. They seemed out of place. Why embellish a church with bizarre hybrid fearsome stone beasts often with mixed animal parts; and what is their purpose?

In Italian these figurines are called “doccione o grondo sporgente” which means “protruding gutter” because they practically served as gutters. But spiritually they must have had significance too don’t you think; or maybe at least emotional impact?

Folklore had it that these stone creatures came to life in the dead of night to physically fight off evil spirits. As you gaze at these images does anything seem odd about that to you? Why would something demonic fight itself? Also, Jesus told us in Mark 3:24 that “a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.” Satanic forces understand that and that’s very clear to most people so how on

earth did church leaders and designers think warding off evil spirits with evil statues had any hope for success? Isn’t that backwards thinking?

You and I know these stone statues have no intrinsic power in themselves but they do have a suggestive power; power that influences a viewer’s mind; and what sort of influence may viewers absorb? Well, to start with, we may believe the devil sometimes fights himself but that’s not true. Or may we believe we are protected when we aren’t, or may we become so familiar with a fierce stone image that we begin to think the real thing is harmless? I ask because here we are on the cusp of Halloween and many think soaking in horror movies or dressing as demonic figures to commemorate the holiday, is fun; ok; harmless. Superficially acquiring candy etc. for the evening has some positive elements to it but I wonder at what expense? How are attitudes toward all the Halloween hype, advertising, imagery,

costumes, affecting perspectives on life; our lives and those we love and are surrounded by?

Let’s think about heaven and hell a minute. Whether we’re born again Christians or not, do these images and their associations appear to have anything to do with what you envision about heaven or a holy God? Galatians 5 teaches us about the fruit of God’s Spirit as being love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Do any of those attributes enter your mind when you view gargoyles or our typical dark Halloween costumes?

Is it possible the darkness associated with those images and affecting our minds today is to blame for the chaos in our world today? Are we contributing to the mess because we tolerate evil, misdefine it or even blindly participate in it?

Is our thinking as backwards and distorted as designing gargoyles for a church? Shouldn’t we care?

Diabetes workshop planned

The NC Cooperative Extension plans a diabetes workshop.

Living Healthy with Diabetes

Wednesdays, Nov. 9Dec. 21 | 9:30am - 12:00pm at Lucile Tatum Ctr., 959 Osceola St., Gastonia, NC. (Total of six sessions - must be able to attend at least four sessions)

This in-person workshop is an evidence-based, diabetes self-management program originally developed at Stanford University. The program is designed for individuals with pre-diabetes, diabetes or at risk for diabetes who want to better manage their health.

Living Healthy with Diabetes can help you: Better manage your blood glucose...

• Eat well, Increase endurance, strength, and flexibility, Use medication effectively,

• Manage pain, fatigue and depression, Feel better and take charge!

• Anyone living with prediabetes, diabetes, or at risk for diabetes should join this workshop.

Need a ride to this workshop? If you are currently registered to ride ACCESS through the Senior Transportation program at DSS, you can make an appointment with ACCESS for this

workshop. If you are not currently riding ACCESS and are at least 60 years old, call 704.862.7540 to enroll in Senior Transportation.

Instructors: Linda J. Minges and Ruth Murphy. No cost to participants. Register: linda_minges@ncsu.edu or 704.922.2127

Sponsored by: Centralina Area Agency on Aging, Gaston County Adult Services, & NC Cooperative Extension

Abbey President’s Ball held

On the evening of October 8th, Belmont Abbey College hosted its annual President’s Ball for the students. The President’s Ball is a time of fellowship for the Abbey community that includes dancing, eating, and socializing. Guests are greeted by College President William Thierfelder, First Lady Mary Thierfelder, and Student Government Executive

Leadership Thomas Thierfelder (President), Megan Canavan (Vice President), and Youthan Love (Secretary). A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Homecoming Court and the Announcement of King and Queen. Congratulations to Homecoming King Thomas Thierfelder and Homecoming Queen Makenna Pallozzi.

People can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline. org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

Thomas Thierfelder and Makenna Pallozzi.

Thomas Thierfelder, Youthan Love, William Thierfelder.

Aiden Gallagher, Nikolas Von Spakovsky, Youthan Love.