Banner-News 11-10-22

Holiday Art Show

Saturday, 11-12 & 11-19 Sunday, 11-13 & 11-20 11am-6pm 2pm-6pm painting / sculpture / jewelry / prints / cards / mosaics & more! 500 East Central Ave., Mt. Holly, NC

U.S. Army took Lewis Crawford of Cramerton far and wide

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

The guns of WWII had barely cooled in March 1946 when a draft notice from Uncle Sam landed in the mailbox of 18-year-old textile mill worker Lewis Crawford of McAdenville.

“I’m originally from the Jackson County town of Balsam near Sylva,” Crawford said. “There were no jobs in the mountains so in 1944 my

father moved the family to McAdenville to work in the mills. I was 16-years-old.”

Crawford, who is now 94-years-old, had only been living in McAdenville a short while when he was called up. Thus began two years when Crawford would see a lot of places in American serving his country in the U.S. Army.

“I took my basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky,” he says. “I learned to operate a

tank and a 105mm howitzer artillery piece. I also learned how to drive an M45 selfpropelled gun with a .50 cal. machine gun in the turret.”

Crawford had another interesting duty at Fort Knox.

“I also did guard duty at the building where all the gold is kept,” he said.

After basic training, Crawford was shipped to Camp Polk in Louisiana for See CRAWFORD, Page 4

Cramerton’s Herman Beaty earned Bronze Star in WWII

By Alan Hodge alan@cfmedia.info

When WWII broke out, Herman Beaty was 15-yearsold and living on the family cotton farm off New Hope and Beaty roads. Three years later, he was in the U.S. Army infantry carrying an M-1 rifle.

“I was drafted on May 23, 1944,” Beaty said.

After he got his notice, Beaty made a trip to Spartanburg, S.C. for a physical exam. He came home for a couple of weeks and then boarded a bus in Belmont

that took him to Fort Bragg.

From there, he was sent to Camp Blanding, Florida for 17 weeks of basic training. Still on the move, Beaty next went to Camp Chassee, Arkansas for more training.

Next, Beaty was bussed to Fort Meade, Maryland.

“Fort Meade was a point of embarkation,” said Beaty. “We had to lay out all our stuff every day to make sure we had everything we needed.”

After Fort Meade, Beaty’s participation in WWII began getting very serious.

“We went to New York and got on a ship that took us to Marseilles. France,” said Beaty. “From there, we boarded a C-47 airplane and went to Bonn, Germany.”

By this stage in the war, Bonn had been liberated by the allies but fighting was not far away.

“I was soon sent to the front lines,” said Beatty.

The weather in Germany was cold and the action was hot. Beaty and his comrades in the 95th Div. were in See BEATY, Page 4

Habitat For Humanity of Gaston County honors notable volunteers

Amid fundraising and celebration at its annual Hard Hat & High Heels gala, Habitat for Humanity of Gaston County recognized outstanding volunteers who have contributed greatly to the nonprofit in recent years. Habitat leadership recognized four recipients – two from 2020 and two from 2021 – of its Newcombe Family Volunteer Award, an honor bestowed upon individuals and organizations that make significant contri-

butions towards fulfilling the dream of homeownership for Habitat families.

“Our homes are made possible by financial gifts, sweat equity and volunteerism,” said Kay Peninger, executive director of Habitat Gaston. “We want our community partners to know how valued they are and the true difference that their efforts are making – not just toward the home build, but toward the future of our homeowner families.”

She added, “Our four recognized Newcombe Family Volunteer Award recipients have been pivotal to Habitat Gaston, especially as our needs have become greater with increasing construction costs. They have made a difference in the lives of our Habitat families and have truly helped Dixon Village, our first mixed-income neighborhood, come to fruition.”

See HABITAT, Page 4

Herman Beaty with his medals.

Lewis Crawford of Cramerton zigzagged across American during his army days.Beaty ready for action.

Steve Whitesell, Artie Newcomb, Beth and John McGill, John Forgan.

It’s not goodbye…. but see you later

By Lisa Harper

So a few days ago, I learned that The Banner News would be ceasing publication. At first I was taken by surprise, yet at the same time, my inner being reminded me that with endings come new beginnings. I’ve witnessed this many times in my life.

I’ve churned out roughly 40 articles here, give or take, over the last 18 months. Where did the time go? Each time I sat down to begin writing another article, the words always flowed with such ease. There was always a thought, memory, or just a mere comment from someone or something that would push my brain into gear.

value what we have. Life is indeed a rollercoaster. Goodbyes also teach us to not take anything for granted. If everything were to remain the same, maybe we wouldn’t learn to value those around us. Connection and reflection have become two very important thoughts for me this past week.

Although leaving is discouraging, it does open up my eyes to the many blessings in my life…both of the past and future…as they say (the best is yet to come)..so with this, I’ll keep writing, and who knows, maybe just show up locally somewhere else. Time will tell.

I will keep writing. It’s something I’ve done now for

It’s a very important part of my life. I’ve enjoyed discovering that there have been many out there that have received a blessing from my writings…for they’ve told me so. A phone call, a note in the mail, or a sweet comment in the midst of a conversation. That’s why I will press on.

Just take heart in knowing that as much as goodbyes can be hard, our lives will carry on. A new door will open. It always has for me.

“Never say goodbye because saying goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting”.

Embrace the detour

Centerview Baptist, North Belmont

Proverbs 16:9 A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.

A few weeks ago, I headed home on a road I traveled very often. Unfortunately, I did not realize that the road was closed a few miles ahead due to construction. Instead of turning around and going back the way I came, I decided to take a detour. The road I chose was one I had passed by many times before, but had never taken. As I drove, I was amazed at the beauty of the scenery. There were large open fields and many trees that must have been more than 100 years old. Nearing the end of my detour around the road construction, I was struck by how refreshing my little extra journey had been. The weather was beautiful, it was a cool sunny day, and the

Vote for MHPD K9 grant...

The Mount Holly Police Department K9 Unit has been nominated for the Aftermath Cares K9 Grant, but we need your votes! Your votes are needed to help our K9 Unit win this competitive grant to purchase equipment and training aids. You may vote once every 24 hours on each of your devices by following the link below.

https://www.aftermath. com/k9-grant...

The Town of Cramerton Public Works Department began vacuum leaf pick up service on Monday October 17th. Please contact Town Hall at 704-824-4337 if you have any questions.

- Please place all raked leaves to the curb, but do not cover storm drains.

- Do not place leaf piles on sidewalks or in roadways.

- Do not park any vehicles within twenty (20) feet of leaf piles.

- Bagged leaves along with hedge clippings will continue to be picked up on a weekly basis.

Book your fire inspection

Have you had your annual fire inspection for your business?

The Fire Marshal Office enforces the current edition of the North Carolina International Fire Code. Annual fire inspections are performed on most Mount Holly businesses.

In addition to permits issued by the Gaston County Building Department, the Fire Marshal Office issues permits and conducts plan reviews and inspections for

Fire Code compliance on new construction, alterations, or change in use and installation or alteration of fire and life safety systems. Permits are also issued to maintain, store, use or handle materials, or to conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property, or to install equipment used in connection with such activities.

Call to make your appointment with the Fire Marshal: (704) 689-3070.

We can also earn extra votes by following and commenting on the daily Instagram @aftermathk9grant and Facebook Aftermath Cares ! Like the daily K9 Grant post and comment “Mount Holly Police Department, Mount Holly NC”.

Cramerton Veterans Day

The Cramerton Historical Society and Town of Cramerton will present a Veterans Day event on Nov. 11 at 11am at the Centennial Center.

Master of Ceremonies will be U.S. Navy veteran Rhett Cozart. Gaston Honor Guard will present the colors. USMC vet Sgt. John

Cates will sing National Anthem. U.S. Army veteran Capt. Scott Kincaid will give the prayer. WWII veterans Herman Beaty and Lewis Crawford will be recognized. Vietnam vet Cpl. Fred Glenn will speak. Carson Browning will play taps. In case of rainevent will be held in Town Hall.

added beauty of the landscape made the detour a pleasant one.

I couldn’t help but think of the many times I have made certain plans only to have an unexpected interruption come up. Most of the time, I see these interruptions negatively, as an interference in my plans. But this time, I truly enjoyed the interruption that came my way.

The detour was a reminder to me that even our best laid plans are truly under the divine hand of God. This is exactly what Proverbs 16:9 is telling us. If God is the One who determines our steps, could it be that God uses those divine interruptions to grow our character and faith? Could it be that those detours may even contain something that will refresh us? Let’s be willing to embrace God’s interruptions in our lives. After all, it may be just what we need.

Rev. Mark Costner

Queen of Apostles Thanksgiving meal will be Nov. 24th

The members of Queen of the Apostles Church, 503 N. Main St, Belmont, will resume their custom of offering a Thanksgiving Meal, complete with all the trimmings, on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2022, from 11:00 am to 12:45 pm.

We serve folks in need at our Family Life Center and we will also deliver meals to residents of eastern Gaston

County who are unable to travel to our church campus.

Please call the church office if you plan on attending or if you need a meal, or meals, delivered to your residence. The phone number is (704) 825-9600. You must call by Friday, November 18, 2022, so we know how many meals to prepare.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

8th Annual Christmas Enchantment in the Garden is December 10th

The Mount Holly Community Garden will be holding its 8th Annual Christmas Enchantment in the Garden on Friday 12/10 from 5:00pm-8:30pm.

This free, family-friendly event for all in the community has grown each year and is often called the “McAdenville of Gardens”. Located at 126 N. Main Street in Mount Holly, the Mount Holly Community Garden has become

a popular destination in the city, housing 52 organic garden beds each leased and attended to yearly by garden members. Over the past 8 years, the Mount Holly Community Garden has supplied the Mount Holly CRO with thousands of pounds of fresh produce, implemented free community programs, and showcases unique art projects including a gorgeous mural by local muralist Boyce

This year’s Christmas Enchantment in the Garden is sure to be one to remember. Each of the 52 garden beds will be decorated differently by garden members, along with hundreds of glowing luminaries lighting your way.

Local businesses and artists will also be taking part this year by decorating designated areas around the garden. Enjoy live music by the Ida Rankin Elementary Chorus, Cathy Black and Jonathan Brackett. Bolton’s Curbside Cookery, Food Junkie’s Old Fashioned Donuts and Catawba Coffee Co. will be on site to curb your appetite.

Cap off the festive evening by visiting with Santa, be sure to bring your camera to capture the magic. Special thanks to the Mount Holly Tourism Development Authority for the recent grant award to help make this event possible.

Photo by Scott Griffin McKinney.

HABITAT

From Page 1

2020 recipients: • Richard Laws: Stott, Hollowell, Windham & Stancil, PLLC. An attorney who, for more than 25 years, closed the mortgage loans for all the Habitat Gaston homeowners at no cost to the homeowners. • Steven Long: GSM Services. An HVAC company that has provided equipment and volunteer labor for Habitat new construction and critical home repairs. 2021 recipients: • John and Beth McGill: John K. McGill Company | McGill Hill Group. McGill and his wife, Beth, are strategic partners on the Dixon Village project, which is currently under construction in Belmont, N.C. Their involve-

ment has been instrumental in advancing the progress of the neighborhood and increasing community involvement through significant financial gifts as well as strategy and insight. • Tom and Dawne

Ras: Thomas Construction and Restoration, Inc. Construction company owners who are the build partners on Dixon Village homes. 1840 E Franklin Blvd Gastonia, NC 28054, Phone: 704-864-6536,

CRAWFORD

From Page 1

a few months. Next, he was sent to Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

“At Fort Sill I worked as a courier for the headquarters,” he said. “I carried information and orders in a jeep.”

Three more months went by, and Crawford was on the move again- this time to Camp Stewart in California.

“We were supposed to go to Japan from there but a couple of days before the move the order was called off.”

From Camp Stewart, Crawford was sent to Yuma, Arizona where for three

months he worked in a unit testing equipment and machines under desert conditions.

Completing a two-year circle of service, Crawford was shipped back to Fort Knox and discharged in September 1947.

After discharge, Crawford came back home and eventually settled in West Cramerton where he lives today. Not desiring to return to the mills, he worked in service stations and then spent 43 years at Chevy dealerships in

Belmont. He retired in 1993. He and his wife Mazell (she passed in June 2005) had three daughters and a son. Crawford has also been a member of American Legion Post 144 in Belmont for 50 years.

When asked what his favorite part was of serving his nation, Crawford is quick to reply- “I got to see the U.S.A., and lots of it!”

Thanks Lewis, for your service!

info@habitatgaston.org

Said John McGill about his and Beth’s partnership with Habitat Gaston that has extended across four projects since the 1990s, “We love Habitat because Habitat is all about a helping hand up to a better life for people and not a handout. Really, [there’s] no greater joy than seeing a Habitat homeowner come into a brand-new home. It’s just absolutely priceless.”

Steven Long shared similar sentiments and commented about the award’s namesake, Johan Newcombe, and her impact on him personally.

“I knew Ms. Newcombe … [she] really pushed me and inspired me to get more involved in the community. The Newcombe family is a real inspiration.”

Two Dixon Village homeowner recipients, alongside their children, shared their journeys with Habitat. They talked of the lessons learned through Habitat’s homeowner program and their gratitude for the donors who made their dreams of homeownership in a safe and stable neighborhood possible.

Hard Hats & High Heels is an annual occasion hosted by Habitat Gaston at the Johan Newcombe Event Center, from which the awards also derive their name. The evening event is an opportunity for volunteers, donors, partners and other Habitat contributors to gather for celebration, fundraising and looking toward the future of making homeownership dreams come true.

This year’s gala was held

on Saturday, Oct. 22, and included the awards announcement as well as silent and live auctions, a seated dinner and live music. Also, thanks to

BEATY

From Page 1

the thick of it during the bitter winter of 1944-1945.

“There was a good bit of fighting,” said Beaty. “There was lots of shooting. We shot at them, and they shot at us. They barely missed me lots of times.”

He remembered one incident in particular.

“We were marching down a road and five German planes dived down on us shooting their 20mm machine guns,” he said. “Luckily no one was hit.”

Beaty received the Bronze Star for his part in the battles.

After VE Day on May 8, 1945, Beaty left Europe for Camp Shelby, Miss., where afterwards he expected to be sent to Japan. The A-bomb

an anonymous matching gift that evening, the organization raised all of the necessary funds for the building of another home in Dixon Village.

ended the war on August 15, 1945 and Beaty was sent to Fort Monmouth in N.J. He reenlisted for a year and came home on Dec. 6, 1946.

“I went to work in Mayes Mill,” he said. “Then I worked at Mayflower Mill. A total of 36 years in both. I then went to Freightliner and retired in 1989.”

After retirement. Beaty turned to his garden and woodshop for amusement. He and his wife Evelyn (she passed on May22, 2007) had three children. He has lived in the same house on N. Main in McAdenville for 72 years.

“I am glad to live in Cramerton,” he says.

Thank you Herman, for your service!

Showers

ShowersPartly CloudyShowers

Mostly Sunny

Shakita Jeffries Habitat Gaston homeowner with daughters. Photos by Elias Rauch

DeShai Hughes Habitat Gaston homeowner with daughter.

Crawford during his army days shortly after WWII.

Private/Public partnership unveils new Belmont Historic District sign

It’s been three years since the Historic Belmont Foundation (HBF) partnered with the City of Belmont to purchase new signage to recognize the town’s National Historic District. Belmont’s national district was established in 1993, but until recently hasn’t had much visible recognition. The new bronze sign is strategically placed near the intersection of North Main Street and Central Avenue to denote the northernmost boundary of this district. “We wanted to let folks know that they are entering an important part of our town’s history and this sign serves as a reminder of what a special place downtown Belmont really is”, said City Councilman Alex Szucs. Each bronze sign costs around $8,700, with HBF contributing 50% of the funds for the project. The Historic Belmont Foundation is a

non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the National Historic District and preserving important historic structures located within it. HBF raises funds through their annual Christmas ornament sale and historic home tours. This year’s Christmas ornament goes on sale soon and features a local historic landmark known as Stowe Manor. Please follow the Historic Belmont Foundation on Facebook for details on upcoming events.

Being designated a National Historic District is not only a great honor, but it also provides financial incentives that can be quite lucrative for home and business owners. If your house is located within the district, you may be eligible for restoration tax credits.

“We took advantage of the tax credit program several years ago and it was an easy and

helpful process”, according to Nancy Gadd, HBF interim President. “Sometimes you hear that it’s not worth it or will be difficult and time consuming, but that was not our experience at all”. For more information about the Renovation Tax Credit program visit the City of Belmont’s website https://www.cityofbelmont. org/belmont-historic-district and the NC State Historic Preservation office to apply for the program at https:// www.ncdcr.gov/state-historicpreservation-office

In attendance for the sign dedication were the Mayor of Belmont, Charlie Martin and City Council members Alex Szucs, Jim Hefferan, and Marc Seelinger and the amazing city staff. From the Historic Belmont Foundation board was Chris Stryker, David and Wendy Hostetler, and Nancy Gadd.

New exhibit open at Gaston Museum

¡Pa’delante Juntos! Forward Together! is now open at the Gaston County Museum of Art & History, 131 Main St., Dallas.

Charlotte regional artist Rosalia TorresWeiner will have an exhibit at the Gaston County Museum of Art & History through December 31, 2022. Her exhibit “¡Pa’delante Juntos! Forward Together!” is an exuberant art exhibit that explores the experience of Hispanic immigrants to the area. The exhibit will include a short film “The Magic Kite” and will feature two portraits with augmented reality where you can listen to the interview of the subject.

“We are so excited to welcome Rosalia,”

Gaston County Museum’s Curator, Alicyn Wiedrich, said. “Her work is bright, emotional, and thoughtful. We hope the community will come out to support her exhibit.”

¡Pa’delante Juntos! Forward Together! By Rosalia Torres-Weiner will be open from September 13 through December 31, 2022.

Visit the Gaston County Museum of Art & History from 10am-5pm Tuesdays through Fridays and 10am-3pm on Saturdays. You can call (704) 922-7681 for more details. For questions about ¡Pa’delante Juntos! Forward Together! or other exhibits, please contact Alicyn Wiedrich at Alicyn.Wiedrich@gastongov.com.

Meeting spiritual and emotional needs an important service at Gaston Hospice

Meeting the spiritual and emotional needs of patients facing end-of-life issues and their families is an important part of the services provided by Gaston Hospice and Palliative Care, Rotarians learned in a program presented at a recent meeting.

Chaplain Holly Shames and bereavement counselor Whitney Turner spoke to the club about their work to support Gaston Hospice patients and their families.

Hospice patients and families are supported by a care team that includes a nurse, a CNA, a social worker, and a volunteer, in addition to the chaplain and a bereavement counselor.

The chaplain’s support most often takes place while patients and families are preparing for the end of life, while the bereavement counselor provides support primarily after death occurs and continuing for as long as a year or more.

“Spiritual well-being can be praying and reading scripture, or also just sitting and listening to a patient’s stories,” said Holly. “Religion can be a part of spirituality, but spirituality encompasses more.”

“Nobody tells us how to grieve,” said bereavement

counselor Whitney. “That’s where we try to help people understand it’s natural to grieve and I’m here to walk with you.” Any member of a family can receive care after a death.

“I’ve never had a more fulfilling job in my life,” she added.

For more on Gaston Hospice and Palliative Care, visit: https://www.caromonthealth.

org.

Belmont Rotary Club, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, meets for lunch and a program on local topics each Wednesday, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., at the Home2 Suites by Hilton in Belmont. Guests interested in learning more about local businesses and issues and how Rotary serves the community are welcome.

Jazz show at Abbey

A jazz music show will take place Sunday, November 13, 2022 at 4:30 PM at Belmont Abbey.

Elements of Empowerment, Inc., in partnership with Belmont Abbey College, is pleased to announce the return of the Community Jazz Series.

Carl Ratliff & Common Ground will perform on the set of The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare. You can purchase tickets at the door or online at elementsofempowerment.yapsody. com/.

Ticket Options: Single - $10.00 each Seating for this show is general admission.

Concerts are coordinated with the Abbey Players’ theater season and performed on the working set of the current production. Accomplished artists perform intimate concerts at the Haid Theater on the campus of Belmont

United Way of Gaston County to collect holiday gifts for senior citizens

During the season of giving, United Way of Gaston County is reminding members of the Gaston County community to consider making a difference by supporting an aging adult in need.

This holiday season, the United Way is accepting Senior Christmas Wish applications for local senior citizens. The program allows senior citizens, ages sixty (60) and above, to submit a request for a want, need, or read. Over the last several years, the requests have ranged from a blanket to everyday toiletries and pantry items.

“It is during the holiday season that people often reflect on the items they do not have”, Andrea Stephens, United Way President said. “The United Way’s mission to unite our community to help and care for one another

is evident through the Senior Christmas Wish program”.

Stephens continued, “it is through community support and the organization of the United Way staff and volunteers that we seek to bring joy to the lives of senior citizens in the most need.”

Senior citizens who would like to request a gift, please contact the United Way office at 704.864.4554. The application can also be found on the United Way of Gaston County’s website, unitedwaygaston.org.

“No matter how you choose to give, showing support from your heart and being involved in a community that seeks to help and care for people in need is the path forward in strengthening a better community.”

Ways to support the 2022 United Way Senior Christ-

mas Wish program: Collect items (comforters, blankets, sheets, towels, books, etc) for senior citizens at your workplace from November 1 until November 30. Volunteer at the United Way of Gaston County office to sort and package gifts. Make a donation of any amount. Make funds payable to the United Way of Gaston County, indicate Senior Christmas Wish program, mail to 200 East Franklin Boulevard, Gastonia, NC 28052.

For more information on Senior Christmas Wishesplease contact United Way Special Projects Coordinator, Rita Davis at 704.864.4554 ext 104. Applications are available online or at the United Way office, 220 East Franklin Boulevard, Gastonia.

Abbey College. The show will feature two 45-minute sets, with a brief intermis-

sion. Light refreshments will be served following the concert.

Carl Ratliff

Gaston Hospice Chaplain Holly Shames (center) and bereavement counselor Whitney Turner spoke to Belmont Rotarians about the services they provide patients and families in a program arranged by Holly’s father Rotarian Don Hartsoe of Edward Jones Investments in Belmont.

Church Directory

Hickory Grove Baptist Church

Hickory Grove Rd •Gastonia, NC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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? Email us today at alan@cfmedia.info

McAdenville’s Dynamo 31 building officially opens as beautification projects progress

Story provided

A few months after first announcing a substantial string of renewal projects focused on fostering continued growth in the historic community of McAdenville, hometown company Pharr has announced the opening of the Dynamo 31 building and its first tenant, the Catawba Riverkeeper.

The former 1940s Pharr Yarns mill adjacent to Pharr’s corporate office in downtown McAdenville has been converted to class A office space. The Dynamo 31 name comes from Thomas Edison’s 31st hydroelectric generator that was built and installed in 1884 by the Edison Electric Illuminating Company to light McAden Mills No. 1 and No. 2, believed by many historians to have been the first electrically lit textile mills in the world.

The Catawba Riverkeeper is the first tenant to occupy Dynamo 31, to be joined soon by Custom Physical Therapy & Fitness. Leases with two other professional services providers are in process, leaving approximately 6,800 square feet available for lease.

“We’re humbled and encouraged by the major progress we’ve made in our efforts so far and the positive impact it’s had in our community already,” said Pharr CEO Bill Carstarphen, the family’s third-generation company leader. “Today we’re excited to share updates on the status of current projects and announce additional plans to keep the momentum and widespread energy going.”

On the heels of the fully redesigned mill announcement, Pharr is rolling out phase two of its overall plan, which includes exciting updates to original work and new elements of construction specifically focused on beautification.

Pharr has been working with renowned landscape architects and civil engineers from LandDesign Inc. on plans for the refurbishment and beautification of the lake at the center of town. The earlier announced dredging project has concluded and a bank restoration project will soon be underway, which should improve the health of the lake and the fish and wildlife that inhabit it.

The lake will also undergo a landscape

redesign, including new trees clustered near the lake, a new fountain in the center and “floating Christmas trees” during the holiday season. Though the current Norway Spruce trees are a familiar element of the town’s iconic Christmas Town U.S.A.TM celebration, they’ve grown too large to safely light and enjoy.

Pharr has worked closely with LandDesign to select new trees, including conifers, flowering trees and hardwoods, that will be set back from the lake, resulting in stunning colors across all seasons. The town will also have new opportunities to safely enjoy the lake’s beauty with a new trail extension overlooking the north side of the lake and connecting to both the Carolina Thread Trail and the McAdenville Greenway.

In other development news, renovations are underway to the riverfront historic mill building at the center of town – opened in 1907 and originally known as McAden Mill No. 3. The roof replacement project is nearly complete, interior flooring repair/replacement is in progress and new windows will soon be installed. Pharr believes that this open-air gathering space can be converted into commercial uses such as food and beverage, retail and entertainment with residents and yearround visitors in mind, embracing the riverfront with outdoor seating.

Elsewhere downtown, 115 Craft, a new bottleshop/taproom for wine and craft beer, is now open and serving its tasty beverages to the town of McAdenville. Modest Market, a shop offering fresh flowers, floral arrangements and botanic art, will soon join the taproom and other local establishments. Later this year, coffee shop Knowledge Perk and ice cream shop Two Scoops Creamery will open.

From a recreational perspective, grading will soon begin on the McAdenville extension of the Carolina Thread Trail, a 10-footwide paved walking trail along the South Fork River with views of the falls at the McAdenville dam. This new trail, connecting an existing trailhead near the I-85 bridge to the picturesque J.M. Carstarphen bridge

overlooking the falls, will be an important segment of a 26-mile trail along the river that will eventually extend from Spencer Mountain to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, linking the cities of Ranlo, Lowell, McAdenville, Cramerton and Belmont.

“We’re so grateful for the community’s continued support and patience in this pro-

cess,” added Carstarphen. “We look forward to gathering in these new spaces and celebrating this special town and its important history for years to come.”

Details around construction, timing and tenants are subject to change, and additional announcements will follow as plans are finalized.

Gaston Christian School celebrates participation in 2022 NCTC High School Play Festival

The Theatre Department at Gaston Christian School is celebrating its recognition in the 2022 NCTC High School Play Festival. The theatre program, led by Heidi Brack, presented A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play at the Festival, and is bringing home the following awards: Excellence in Stage Management (Maddie Tongson), Excellence in Foley Artistry (Sammari Tate and Nick Welfare), and an overall rating of Superior.

This year, over 2,000 students from 87 schools are performing 112 plays at 7 regional sites. The top 16 productions are invited to perform at the NCTC State High School Play Festival, November 17-18 at Greensboro College.

Participating schools travel to their regional Festival sites with theatrical sets, costumes, and props. Each show loads into a 10’x10’ backstage area. When their time comes, schools have 45 minutes to set up, per-

form the play, and clear the stage. Following their performance, students receive feedback from professional actors and directors with Broadway and Hollywood credits. Awards are given for acting, design, technical craft, ensemble work, and festival spirit.

“We continue to celebrate a spirit of community at the Play Festival, giving students an enriching environment to learn from each other and celebrate each other’s work. Young artists leave feeling accomplished, energized, and inspired,” said NCTC Executive Director Angie Hays.

For over 50 years, the NCTC High School Play Festival has strengthened arts education in schools by bringing the curriculum to life, challenging students to do their very best work, and contributing to the development of future audiences for the performing arts. The program was named one of the “Top High School The-

atre Festivals” by Stage Directions Magazine. It is the largest high school theatre event in the Southeast.

The NCTC High School Play Festival is made possible with support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Depart-

ment of Natural and Cultural Resources; Church Interiors Audio and Video; Lincoln Financial Group; and the Moore County Community Foundation.

About the North Carolina Theatre Conference

The mission of NCTC is

to strengthen North Carolina’s vibrant theatre industry and engage tomorrow’s artists, audiences, and advocates. NCTC has served as the leader of the statewide theatre industry since 1970, and produces several events throughout the year, includ-

ing the NCTC Producing Gathering, NCTC College Day, the NCTC Theatre Admin Intensive, the NCTC Awards, and statewide NCTC Middle School and High School Play Festivals.

Want a lawn like the Biltmore House?

Fall is the best time for renovation and seeding coolseason grasses. More specifically, September and October are the best months for sowing tall fescue. After October, cool weather reduces seed germination. Planting now gives tall fescue time to establish and grow a robust root system. Spring-established tall fescue is more susceptible to drought, heat, fungal diseases, and weed encroachment. Spring seeding is not likely to result in a year-long stand of healthy tall fescue.

Established lawns benefit from core aerification when overseeding. This helps improve the seed-soil contact. Seedsoil contact is essential for germination. Seed that is not in contact with soil will not establish. Core aeration also reduces soil compaction. Tall fescue seeding rate for a lawn is 5 pounds of seed per 1000 square feet.

With good soil moisture and suitable soil temperatures, germination will normally be in 5 to 12 days. Seeds and seedlings can be killed by some herbicides, so fall seeded coolseason grasses should not have any herbicides applied until it is extensively tillered. Tillering is when the seedling grass produces new side shoots. Once this occurs, it is tolerant of pre-emergent and broadleaf herbicides. Fall is also the time to fertilize cool-season lawns.

Take a soil sample and have your soil tested. This will make sure your soil fertility is not deficient for a healthy lawn. A soil test is free if submitted before Thanksgiving.

If you don’t test your soil for nutrients, apply a complete nitrogen-phosphoruspotassium (N-P-K) turf-grade fertilizer with a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 ratio (that is, 124-8 or 16-4-8). For a basic level of fertility, fertilize with 1 pound of N per 1,000 square feet in mid-September and again in November (about the time the grass is green but not actively growing). If you bag your grass, apply 1 pound of nitrogen (N) per 1,000 square feet of lawn. If you use a mulching blade and do not collect the grass clippings, reduce your fertilizer by 25%.

To calculate how much fertilizer you need, divide 100 by the FIRST number on the fertilizer bag. (The first number always represents N content.) This is what is needed per 1,000 square feet. For example, if you have a 10-10-10 fertilizer, divide 100 by 10 and you get 10. Therefore, you need 10 pounds of 10-1010 fertilizer for every 1,000 square feet of lawn.

One easy way to measure your lawn is Google maps (https://www.google.com/maps). Find your property and “right click” your mouse. This brings up a menu of choices. Select “Measure Distance”. The other option is to use the Gaston County GIS map and select the advance tools from

the right menu. Click on the measure button and a new box will open. Choose the icon to measure “area.”

By taking proper care of your lawn, it can outcompete weeds and disease, reducing the need for pesticides. Thanks for Seth Nagy, Caldwell County CED for his contributions to this article. For more assistance in Gaston County, contact Horticulture Agent, Julie Flowers at 704-922-2104 or email her at julie.flowers@gastongov.com

The Town of Stanley held its annual Trunk or Treat Halloween event on Oct. 29. Hundreds of folks dressed up in spooky/funny costumes and handed out and/or consumed vast quantities of sweets.

Photos by Bill Ward

NC Cooperative Extension story/ graphic

The Biltmore House, Asheville, NC.

“A hungry child cannot learn,” says BackPack Weekend Food Program

A program started 11 years ago has provided more than 1.8 million meals to Gaston County students who otherwise would have been hungry on weekends.

The BackPack Weekend Food Program was the topic when Executive Director Leigh Spach spoke recently to the Belmont Rotary Club. She said the mission of the program is “to provide nutritionally balanced, non-perishable weekend meals to students in Gaston County schools during the school year so they can come to school ready to learn.”

The program was started by former nurse Carolyn Niemeyer and her husband Dr. Charles Niemeyer in a bedroom of their home.

Dozens of partner churches and hundreds of volunteers are required to operate the program, which has just one full-time staff member and three part-time. And the challenges have increased since the COVID pandemic and resulting economic strains on families. In one school, the number of children needing weekend meals has increased from 50 to 161, Spach said.

The cost of food also has risen significantly this year. Last year a donation of $299 would provide weekend meals the entire school year for one elementary student, and a donation of $325 would do the same for middle and high school students. Those prices have risen this year to

$323 and $385.

Non-perishable food is delivered in bulk to a warehouse, where dozens of volunteers work one day each month to pull supplies required for each church partner. Volunteers from the churches then pack meals for all of the participating students in the schools they serve. Students pick up their meals at school each Friday.

The BWFP is a non-profit organization and relies heavily on contributions and fund-

I see you!

Can you believe it’s November? Thanksgiving is right around the corner, just a few weeks away. This time of year, we talk a lot about being thankful. Shortly, we will all gather around dinner tables and pray a prayer of thanksgiving. If we want to be truly thankful, it begins with recognizing what God has done for us, and what He continues to do.

In Judges 7:1-23, God leads Gideon to build an army to battle Israel’s enemies, the Midianites. At first, the army numbers more than 30,000 men, yet God said this was too many. God said if He delivered them a victory, they would claim credit for it and not give Him the glory. 22,000 men left because they were afraid to fight. God had Gideon test the rest of the men by drinking water. The ones who went to the water and drank from their hands would be separated from the ones who knelt and drank from the water on their knees. Only 300 men drank from their hands. This would be the army. God used this tiny army to face thousands. As this small army gathered around the army of the Midianites, God threw their enemies into a panic, and they fought themselves. Gideon and his men pursued them as they fled, bringing a great victory for Israel.

Teachers recognized for completing G.A.L.E. program coursework

Ten teachers in Gaston County Schools recently completed a year-long coursework titled “Gaston County Schools AIG Local Endorsement” or “G.A.L.E.” to work with academically and intellectually gifted students.

The G.A.L.E. coursework is designed to highlight and promote best instructional practices and provide in-depth training for educators who are part of the school district’s AIG (Academically or Intellectually Gifted) program. The teachers had to complete 12 modules on gifted topics and conduct a case study.

Below is a list of the teachers who completed the program:

Andrea Bookout, Chavis Middle

Kelly Carpenter, Mount Holly Middle

Jennifer Ray, Mount Holly Middle

Stephanie Vogel, Stanley Middle

Maria Xiong, Southwest Middle

Jennifer Zigler, Mount Holly Middle

“We are very proud of the teachers’ efforts to obtain the G.A.L.E. endorsement,” said Superintendent of Schools W. Jeffrey Booker. “We recognize the hard work that the teachers have put forth toward supporting the needs of gifted students in Gaston County Schools.”

raising. One of the major annual fundraisers, Dining at the Chef’s Table, is set for November 12.

For more information on the program and the event, visit www.bwfpgc.com, or call 704.689.3363 #102.

Belmont Rotary Club, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, meets for lunch and a program on local topics each Wednesday, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., at the Home2 Suites by Hilton in Belmont. Guests interested in learning more about local businesses and issues and how Rotary serves the community are welcome. For more information, visit www. belmontrotaryclub.com.

Michelle Crowder, Grier Middle

Faith Dibble, Chapel Grove Elementary and Sherwood Elementary

Nicole Eskay, Holbrook Middle

Laura McDowell, Holbrook Middle

Booker added, “We know that it took extra work and effort, and we congratulate the teachers on this achievement. We are proud of what they do for our AIG program, and we know that their students will benefit from their completion of the G.A.L.E. coursework.”

The teachers who achieved the G.A.L.E. certification were recognized during the Board of Education meeting on October 17.

Lingerfeldt Elementary students learn what it is like to be a golfer

The next professional golfers from Gaston County Schools could be in the making at Lingerfeldt Elementary.

Like the army of Israel, we must recognize that it is God who fights our battles and brings the victory. It can be easy to look at ourselves and what we have accomplished. Ultimately, what we have, all of it, has been a gift from God. Look at your life and look for God’s hand in everything. When you begin to see God’s hand in your life, it changes your view of God, and yourself. Gideon was a timid man, who mistrusted God. When he began to see God in his life, he became a great leader, and a man of intense faith.

As you read this, think about your life for a moment. Think of what you have, family, and friends. Think of Jesus. He loves you so much that He died for you, carrying your sin. Dying so you could have eternal life. That’s something to be thankful for! I’m thankful for so much. I’m thankful for everything I have, my family, and church. I’m thankful for having been able to share Jesus with you every week for years, as you read this. Most of all I’m thankful for Jesus, my savior. I hope you know Him too. If not, trust in Him today. Wherever we go from here, whatever we experience in life, remember this, we have so much to be thankful for. We have Jesus!

Through the First Tee program, students learn about the sport of golf. In addition to learning how to play, the program focuses on life skills and helps children build their strength of character through golf. Lingerfeldt is the only elementary school integrating the program into its physical education classes.

Teacher Taylon Singleton brought First Tee to the school after seeing its benefits in another school district. He said, “Students are learning more than just the game of golf. The First Tee program teaches children character traits such as honesty and sportsmanship.”

Currently, the program is being introduced to fifth grade students, but Singleton said the program will be available to all students.

“I want the older students to grasp more than the ability to understand and enjoy the game of golf,” said Singleton. “The curriculum reinforces life skills such as positive attitude and problem-solving and applies these values to golf.”

By introducing the game of golf with the

First Tee core values, the program provides the opportunity for children to see how honesty, judgment, and responsibility in physical education class relates to other areas of their lives.

Student Cameron Mack is having fun learning the basics of golf. “I only knew of putt-putt,” smiled Mack. “Coach Singleton is teaching us other parts of the game, such as chipping and striking the ball.”

Principal Page Willis is grateful for the program. She said, “We are really excited to offer our students an array of opportunities through our elective options. Golf is a lifelong sport that teaches students about persistence, accuracy, and social skills. Coach Singleton is creating an outstanding physical education program that offers learning experiences for students so they can explore many possible options that could be in their future.”

Cameron Mack

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

Rev. Trent Rankin

Leigh Spach, executive director of the BackPack Weekend Food Program in Gaston County, told Belmont Rotarians how the program provides weekend meals for hundreds of students who otherwise would go hungry. Seth Sherrin, immediate pastpresident of the Belmont Rotary Club, arranged the program.

Program helps teacher assistants earn their teaching credentials

Teacher assistants always have their plates full. From helping out in classrooms to providing extra support as needed around a school, there is always something for them to do.

Recently, employees in the Gaston County Schools “Teaching Assistants to Teachers” professional development program were given a chance to take a break from their busy schedules to fellowship with one another. The teacher assistants are currently balancing a full workload while also taking classes to earn their teaching degree through partnerships with Gaston College, Belmont Abbey College, and Gardner-Webb University.

The teacher assistants were treated to a breakfast on October 14 and got an opportunity to get to know their colleagues better since they might not have a time of in-person fellowship due to the online nature of their coursework. The new pro-

gram is offered through the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy, and many of the participants said taking advantage of it was a no brainer.

“This is my thirteenth year as a teacher assistant,” said Brooke Boukather of Sherwood Elementary School. “It’s always been on my mind that I want to become a teacher, but I had younger children at home, and I just didn’t have the time or money to pursue a teaching degree. So, when I heard about this program, I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity.”

Wanda Marlowe, a kindergarten teacher assistant at Catawba Heights Elementary and a former Gaston County Teacher Assistant of the Year, said she is the most excited about being able to finally call a classroom her own when she completes the program.

“Teacher assistants do a lot,” Marlowe said. “But,

I just want to have my own classroom, with my own imprint and the ability to make teaching my own.”

Before the breakfast was over, the group was asked to stand up to share a “glow” about their week – something positive that had happened in their classroom – with everyone else.

“Teacher assistants can have a lot going on and finding that balance can be hard,” said Jada Alexander of Mount Holly Middle School to the crowd of her colleagues. “But, when a student emails you and thanks you for teaching them, it’s all worth it.”

Forty teacher assistants, who currently work for Gaston County Schools, were selected for the program through an application and interview process. The program participants should be able to complete a bachelor’s degree in about two years, which means by the start of the 2024-2025 academic

year, they will be ready to transition from teacher assistant to elementary school classroom teacher.

It is estimated that completion of the degree program could cost up to $20,000 per person. However, Gaston County Schools is working with its three partners in education to cover expenses for tuition, books, and materials.

According to Superintendent of Schools W. Jeffrey Booker, the “Teacher Assistants to Teachers” program is one way that Gaston County Schools is addressing the

ongoing teacher shortage, which is affecting schools across the country.

Dr. Booker stated, “Through the ‘Teacher Assistants to Teachers’ program, we are investing in our own, which is extremely important to retaining quality employees. We have outstanding teacher assistants who already know what it is like to support students, be in a classroom setting, and handle many school-related responsibilities. This program gives them an opportunity to take their work in the

education profession to the next level.”

“It made sense for us to work with Gaston College, Belmont Abbey College, and Gardner-Webb University to create a program that prepares today’s teacher assistants to become tomorrow’s certified classroom teachers,” added Dr. Booker. “We are looking forward to the day when the teaching assistants in the program walk into their own classroom and take their well-deserved spot at the head of the class.”

ROLE MODEL WORD SEARCH

Gaston Schools photo

Outdoor classroom honors legacy of Pinewood Elementary teacher

Students at Pinewood Elementary School in Mount Holly are accustomed to learning inside the classroom, but now they will get a chance to do some learning outside as well.

The school held a ceremony on October 11 to officially open its outdoor classroom. Students and teachers are looking forward to having a place for teaching and learning in a new environment.

The outdoor classroom was created to honor the memory of retired teacher Patsy Norwood, who taught at Pinewood for more than 20 years. She loved being outdoors and was always learning something new so the outdoor classroom idea seemed like the ideal way for family and friends to remember her.

The project was put together by Norwood’s daughters, Nancy Roy and Jane Rowe, and friend, Mark Jessen, who attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church with Norwood. Roy said when they saw the courtyard

area, they knew it was the right place to design an outdoor classroom.

“We walked around the school, but when we saw this location, we said this is it –this is perfect,” said Rowe.

Pinewood is one of three elementary schools in Gaston County – along with Rankin and W.A. Bess – to be named a North Carolina A+ School.

North Carolina A+ Schools are known for integrating the arts across all areas of the curriculum. The outdoor classroom will play a significant role in involving the arts in lessons and activities, according to Pinewood principal Kimberly Reese.

“This new outdoor classroom space will be a place that involves students in many activities, projects, and lessons,” said W. Jeffrey Booker, Superintendent of Schools. “There is something about being outdoors that sparks creativity, enhances learning, and gives students the opportunity to be engaged thinkers.”

During a ceremony for Norwood’s family and

friends, Rowe and Roy said their main goal was to have something at Pinewood that represents their mom’s legacy.

“She would be so proud because she loved the outdoors, she loved teaching, and she loved her church, and this project is all three things coming together,” said Roy. “She would have loved to have a space like this. It’s an amazing tribute.”

The sisters are pleased to know that their mother’s passion for teaching young minds will continue in the new outdoor classroom space.

“We want to thank the teachers who are here with us today,” Rowe said to the people gathered for the ceremony. “You’re the ones who are going to bring the learning to this outdoor classroom.”

The ceremony was recorded, and it will air the week of October 24-30 on Spectrum Channel 21, which is the Education Station for Gaston County Schools, at 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 8:00 p.m. each day.

ACTIONS ADULT ASPIRE ATTITUDE BEHAVIOR CHILDREN GOAL GUIDANCE GUIDE INFLUENCE INSPIRE INSTRUCT

LEADER MENTOR MODEL OVERCOME POSITIVE QUALITIES REACH STUDENT TEACHER TRAITS WORKFORCE

SUDOKU

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column, and each 3 by 3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9 using logic.

Gaston Schools story/photo

South Point blasts Hickory while EG and Cramer are knocked out of playoffs

By John Wilson John.bannernews@gmail.com

It seemed like almost yesterday that South Point, Stuart Cramer, and East Gaston were preparing for the start of the 2022 football season. Now the playoffs are here. First round action would see South Point advance while Cramer and East Gaston would both lose.

South Point 48

Hickory 13

The 9-1 Red Raiders drew the number 11th seed in the 3A West and hosted the 22nd seeded Hickory Red Tornadoes.

Hickory was 6-3 going into this one and for the most part played South Point tough in the first half. The Red Tornadoes went into the locker room at halftime only trailing the Red Raiders 21-13 at the half.

That would all change in the third quarter. South Point made some halftime adjustments and then came out in the second half and blasted the Red Tornadoes scoring 27 unanswered second half points.

South Point would go on to win 48-13.

Offensively South Point played well finishing the game with 490 yards of total offense. All but three of those yards came from a punishing running game that gouged the Red Tornado defense. Leading the offense charge was quarterback Patrick Blee and fullback Cam Medlock. Blee and Medlock ran roughshod over the Hickory defense teaming up for 410 yards and six touchdowns.

South Point’s top defensive players were Winter Kincaid and Will Ross. Kincaid ended the game with 13 tackles while Ross finished up with 11.

Also having a good night on defense was Jayden Garrett-Straite who returned an interception for touchdown.

“I was proud of our team,” head coach Adam Hodge said. “Our offense played really well. The defense made some good adjustments in the second half and shut them out. A good win. Now it’s time for the next one.”

This week South Point will have their hands full as they head over to Greensboro to battle the 9-2 Dudley Panthers.

The Panthers are tough, they went undefeated in the

Mid-State 3A. A quick scouting of the Panthers shows that Dudley plays well on both sides of the ball. The Panthers pair a potent offense with a stingy defense. The Dudley offense can pass and run effectively while the defense is capable of shutting opposing offenses down.

Community

School of Davidson 20

East Gaston 14

In 2A action there was a bit of déjà vu as the 29th seeded East Gaston Warriors lined up against the fourth seeded Community School of Davidson in a repeat of last year’s first round playoff action. In that game the Warriors beat the Trojans 57-39.

This year the game was a little bit tighter as Davidson managed to flip the script and squeezed out a 20-14 win.

In the early going things were looking good for East Gaston as the Warriors took a 14-6 lead into the half.

In the second half the Spar-

tans slowly started to chip away at the Warriors lead. EG still led 14-12 at the end of the third, but Davidson kept the pressure on and the Spartans jumped out to a 20-14 lead in fourth. The Warriors just couldn’t find their way back to the end zone in the second half and the Spartans came away with the win.

East Gaston ended the year at 6-5. While head coach JT Postell didn’t like the early exit from the playoffs, he was pleased with the team’s progress these last two years.

“We can look back at this year and see that our guys performed really well,” coach Postell said. “We had to replace a lot of guys on both sides of the ball from last year’s team. We proved a lot of people wrong and that shows what kind of character these guys have and how hard

See FOOTBALL, Page 13

The South Point High Red Raiders varsity football team hosted the Hickory High Red Tornadoes in a playoff game last Friday. At the end of the session, the Red Raiders had taken a keen hickory switch to Hickory and took the breeze out the Tornadoes 48-13. The Red Raiders are now 10-1 overall. Go Red Raiders! Red Raiders, Red Raiders, Red Raiders!

Photos by Calvin Craig/Superraiders

LEGAL NOTICE

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)

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)

Gaston County Employee of the Year awards announced

Financial

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Congratulations to Sgt. Holder, SRO Martin, 911 Communication’s Catrina Love, and Animal Care & Enforcement’s Erin McManus for receiving Employee of the Year awards from Gaston County Government. The awards represent the County’s sincere appreciation for the outstanding service they provide to the residents of Gaston County. Thank you all for your continued hard work and dedication.

Chief Ramey, Erin McManus and Asst. Chief Mauney-Smith.

Chief Ramey, SRO Martin and Asst. Chief Mauney-Smith.

Chief Ramey, Sgt. Holder and Asst. Chief Mauney-Smith.

Catrina Love is pictured (center).

FOOTBALL

From Page 11

they worked. We finished with the winning record and had back-to-back playoffs appearances.”

West Charlotte 40 Cramer 13

The Storm pulled the 25th seed in the playoffs and headed over to Mecklenburg County to take on the eighth seeded West Charlotte Lions.

Going into this game

both teams finished the regular season with similar records. The Lions ended the regular season at 5-5 while the Storm went into the playoffs at 4-6.

In first half action the Lions jumped out to a 14-0 lead.

Cramer finally got on the scoreboard at the beginning of the third quarter and cut the West Charlotte lead down to 14-6.

Unfortunately, that’s about as close as the Storm would get to mounting a

comeback.

After the Cramer TD the Lions soon went on a scoring run the Strom just couldn’t match and West Charlotte went on to win 40-13.

“We kind of beat ourselves the other night,” head coach Ben McMillan said. “But we really appreciate our seniors for all of their time and effort.”

On a positive note, Cramer senior quarterback Justin Rocquemore found his way into the record books by breaking the Gaston County passing yardage record.

The South Point High Red Raiders varsity football team hosted the Hickory High Red Tornadoes in a playoff game last Friday. Photos by Calvin Craig/Superraiders

The Town of Stanley held its last concert and car show of the season on October 7. The event drew the usual crowd of folks and fine machines. Photos by Bill Ward

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE

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

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING! SERVICE MASTER. Quality Clean & Restore!! Full time Water / Fire Restoration Technician and Carpet Cleaning Technician. Prior construction skills a plus. Starting pay $15 hr. Please send resume to servicesqcr@gmail.com or call 704-313-7352.

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

JANITORIAL MANAGER IH Services, is a recognized leader in providing facility maintenance and building services to many of the most recognized brands in the industrial manufacturing, distribution, power generation, hospitality, health care and automotive industries. We are in need of a manager to oversee the Janitorial operations for a facility in Lake City, SC. 10-12 parttime employees that work 7 days first/second shift and a weekend shift. Salary: $39,000 - $41,000 per year

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Want your house to sparkle and shine for the holidays then give me a call. Call or text me at 704-419-9016 or email me at sgacsa@aol.com (704) 419-9016

FOR SALE

ALL TRAILERS CASH, FINANCE, CREDIT CARDS or RENT TO OWN. J Johnson Sales Forest City, NC. Thursday - Friday 10-5, Saturday 1012. Ph. (828) 245-5895

WANT TO BUY

CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-692-6767, (704) 487-0228

HOME REMODELING. Interior and exterior remodeling. Call Charlie today for your free estimate! (828) 244-7087 charliejohnston32@gmail.com

TRIPLE D PAINTING, LLC. All your painting needs. Free estimates. Over 25 yrs experience! Facial board replacement available!!! Many local references available !! (704) 418-5736 childresstracy1@gmail.com

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

ANTIQUES

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

FOR SALE

EZ-GO GAS GOLF CART. $550. MPI 2400 Monitor heater with tank & stand, uses kerosene, $700. Burning Barrels $10. Feed Barrels $20. Totes from $60-$100. Call Jeff, Hickory, NC (828) 327-4782

HORSE QUALITY HAY. Square and round bales. Call (704) 487-6855

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) 2455895

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

DRESSER, CHEST OF DRAWERS, 2 ANTIQUE TRUNKS. 506 C0llege Ave, Shelby, NC. 704-472-2050, (704) 482-4815

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

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

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.

FARM & GARDEN

WANT TO BUY CORNISH BANTAM chicken and a used UTV, 2 wheel drive. Need someone to do chainsaw work. 828-248-2184.

COINS * COINS * COINS. We Buy & Sell Coins. “Coin Collector Supplies.” JAKE’S KNIVES & COLLECTIBLES. 1008 South Lafayette Street, Shelby. Call 704-600-6996 (980) 295-5568

Benefits: Weekly Pay PTO begins first day Company laptop and cell phone 401K Medical/Dental/Vision/ Insurance (864) 894-0695 Mlukomske@ihservices.com

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

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

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 8p8a weekends. Apply in person at 203 Lee St., Shelby

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

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) 2950750

RV AND BOAT STORAGE SECURE RV AND BOAT STORAGE. 24/7 ACCESS. ONLINE CONTRACT AND PAYMENT. KEY PAD ENTRY AND PHONE IN ACCESS. WIDE ROADS WITH PULL THROUGH AND BACK IN SPACES, FOR EASY PARKING. GO TO YOURTOYBOXLLC.COM OR CALL US FOR PRICING AND AVAILABILITY. 704-470-5816. FACILITY ADDRESS: 136 ELM RD. GROVER, NC 28073 (704) 470-5816 YOURTOYBOXLLC@YAHOO.COM

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) 9741111 lora3_4@yahoo.com

LOTS OF STUFF TO SELL. Too much to list. Call me and I will tell you what I have. 704240-8023

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

NEW USED REPO BUILDINGS Thursday - Friday 10-5 Sat. 10-12 J Johnson Sales 2690 US Hwy 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

DOZENS OF FREE JELLY JARS. with lids. 828-215-2162. (704) 434-7171

FOR SALE/TRADE 35 Ft. Windsport RV, Sleeps 6, 48,000 miles. Trade for a pickup truck of equal value. $12, 000-$14,000. 704-915-9323 or 704-842-1794.

USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/ SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. 828-980-0788.

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

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

WHITE WHIRLPOOL DUET. Front loading washer and dryer with attached drawer pedestals. $1,300. 704-674-8587 (Leave Message.)

PETS & LIVESTOCK

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

EMPLOYMENT

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

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. BYOTools. I have some if needed. Come and give me you estimate. Good pay for good work. (574) 229-3631

BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITIES

BIG

DRIVE COLBALT. Brand new Titan, comes apart for E-Z transporting, training, charger, Tech warranty, 275 lb limit. Call Scooterman John (704) 951-4224 (704) 9514224 mobilityservices07@ gmail.com

ESTATE SALE. Antique China cabinets, armoire, daybed, other furniture, glass, etc. Also Jet2 power chair. Call 704-7516631

CUT THE CABLE. Watch 7,000 TV Channels, New Movies, Children, Adult, Sports, NFL, NBA. Only $150. (704) 9629007

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

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

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve: 704-472-8865; Todd: 704-6921627

RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828-980-0853, 704-476-9383.

LOST & FOUND

LOST PINKY RING at Food Lion in Rutherfordton on Wednesday, Oct.

CHINESE CRESTED PUPPIES. Adorable Chinese Crested pups are available. Born in June this year we have four powder puffs (two tan and buff - one male and one female, and two black and white - both males. There are two puppies who are considered to be “extremely, hairy hairless” or “powder puffs without the subcoat”, both males, one tan and buff and one black and white. Have had two vet checks and shots and are on treatment for tick, heartworms and fleas. Will weigh approximate 7 pounds. Most fun breed to own...a personality that’s a mix of a dog, cat, prancing horse and deer. Got to see them to believe them! Potty trained to a weewee pad or will go outside. Let’s talk if you’re interested! $800.00 each. (828) 775-4089 cyninbuncombe@yahoo.com

CHURCH SECRETARY. New Hope Baptist Church, Earl, NC has part-time secretary position available. spence29743@ gmail.com

HAIRSTYLIST NEEDED. ScissorSmith Salon located in downtown Kings Mountain is looking for experienced, licensed hair stylists to perform mens grooming and/or womens hair styles inclusive of cuts, colors, extensions etc. Competitive booth rental rates. Must have a valid Cosmetology License Job Type: Full-time (704) 692-7094 rssimmons10@gmail.com

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

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tune-up 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 704472-9367.

DECORATIONS FOR SALE. Christmas and Fall Wreaths with other decorations and crafts. 200 Lutz Rd, Lawndale. 704-538-3808.

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 Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12 (828) 245-5895

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

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

WANT TO BUY

472-0006

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

CKC YORKIE PUPS $1200. 2 males, 2 females, 9wks old, tails docked, dewclaws removed, 1st shots, in home and hand raised, fur and nails maintained, potty training going well. No deposit required, no holds. To a good home. Serious inquiries only. (980)421-2565 kais_companions@yahoo.com

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) 2455895

STEVE LONDON FAMILY wants to thank everyone for the love shown to our family.

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

PETS & LIVESTOCK

10 MONTH OLD FAINTING

BILLY GOAT. Full blooded, black and white, bright blue eyes. $250 or best offer. Please call 828-248-8060.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MALTIPOO PUPPIES. Make wonderful gifts and companions. They will put joy in your home. 828-657-4968, leave message if no answer.

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

CARS

LABRADOR RETRIEVER PUPPIES. AKC REGISTERED. Beautiful dogs from champion bloodline. Both parents on site. Vet-checked, dewormed, first shots. Chocolate and black. Available 11/16/22 $800. Call or text (704) 473-4891

WANT TO TRADE 2 MUSCOVY DUCKS for 2 hens. Please call (704) 466-8741

TAKING DEPOSITS. F3 Golden Doodles. Blonde and Black & white. Male and female. 980925-9048.

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.

AKC MINI AMERICAN SHEPHERD. Oz is a blue merle male ready for his new home. Expected height when adult is 16-17 inches at the withers and approx 27-30 pounds. He is a sweet pup with medium drives/ energy and brains this breed is known for. He is up to date on shots, been vet checked and microchipped. His parents have had genetic health testing, OFA hips, elbows, patella, eyes certified, results and proof on website www.schaefersmas. weebly.com (252) 599-6550 tonyacinnc@yahoo.com

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

OUT OF AREA

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

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.

SCHNOODLE PUPPIES. TWO CREAM MALE SCHNOODLES. THEY WILL BE AROUND 13 LBS FULL GROWN. THEY DO NOT SHED. LOVE KIDS, EASY TO TRAIN. SCHNAUZER/ POODLE. 850 SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY. (704) 5389132 ANNIE2663@BELLSOUTH.NET

MALTIPOO PUPPIES. First shot and wormed. $500 cash. (704) 477-6762

AKC AKITA PUPPY. Great watch dog. Will max out at approx 120 lbs. Unlimited registration. Serious inquiries only. (704) 974-7041

GERMAN SHEPHERD

FEMALE. Solid black, 18 months old, AKC registered, working bloodline. $450. 828429-0053 or 828-748-9238.

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 828569-9807 or visit www.quailhollowpuppies.com (828) 569-9807 juliecarr42@yahoo.com

CARS & TRUCKS

1999 MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS E320. Gold, Good Condition. $2,500. 2015 Indian Chieftain Motorcycle. Black. Low mileage. $13.000. 704300-9223.

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

RENT

HICKORY CREEK APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS. (62 and older), disabled (50 and older). Shelby. Now taking applications for waiting list. 418 East Warren Street, (704) 487-6354

406 MORTON ST, SHELBY. 2BR, 1BA., central heat & air. No pets, criminal background check, written proof of income. $725 month, $350 deposit. Contact Tommy Wilson, with Clay & Associates Real Estate, (704) 418-1251

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

fee $25. 704-214-4180

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704-739-0259.

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

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

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $550 per month. 828-382-0475.

Connect the Dots: It’s all about Him Self-imposed words or ?

By Dennis Siracusa

Life is complicated isn’t it and words heard can stick in our memory. Some can hurt us like “you’re a day late and a dollar short” or “you’re not enough.” Sometimes spoken memories pop up seemingly from nowhere; sometimes they affect us sometimes they go in a mental waste basket?

Sadly, a pandemic of poor self-esteem thoughts today indicate many suffer from the impact of harmful thoughts and words. It’s evident in downcast postures, conversations, outspoken anger, and even what we think or tolerate. Stacey Abrams (Georgia’s Democratic nominee for Governor) recently (9/2022) disputed preborn baby recorded heartbeats at 6 weeks as being “fake.” Many, and science disagree. How did she arrive at this thinking and how can she acknowledge a viable heartbeat at 8 weeks and still vigorously advocate for abortions in all circumstances? What words have impacted her thinking to help her frame such a perspective?

Some say “we’re in the middle of a disastrous bear market or inflationary period where others say No We’re Not; well maybe; well yes we are for a short period where others are suspecting a two year stint. What does all this see-sawing do to our thinking and moods? It seemingly affects us like being stuck in traffic burning valuable fuel; going nowhere. When absorbed with worry or doubt our productive gears slip into neutral or reverse. Words and opinions have weight and we need to be

careful who and what we listen to.

Liberal voices come from everywhere; media, movies, songs, uncertain church pulpits, A-listers, and spiritual forces of darkness. Yes, the devil is real and active and he is busy killing, stealing and destroying! John 10:10. Even our recent “Halloween celebrations” are designed to steer us toward believing the devil is harmless and to tolerate his antics. Just look at the images associated with the day.

In Galatians 5 we learn God instills us with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and selfcontrol. In sharp contrast, when we see or hear harmful messages anywhere are we concerned; do we care? Is it possible our thinking has been so saturated with deception that we tolerate or embrace harmful thoughts?

Jesus Christ tells us in Ephesians 2, in Him we are blessed, redeemed, forgiven, enriched with grace, and chosen. And in Him we have His Spirit building positive Galatians 5 character into us. We can trust God’s Word and words to always bless, guide, and infuse us well. Other words we gather traversing life, or those from spiritual forces of darkness cannot be trusted or are completely bent on our destruction. Are we threat assessing and choosing well?

Songs of Food & Gratitude

Starters

Main Course

Good progress is being made on the new McCord Family Park in downtown Lowell. Recently a group of volunteers from the NorthPoint Development donated their time to assist the city public works employees with the landscaping.

Dennis Siracusa

Thank you from the Friends of Crowders Mountain to mother/daughter team, Jessica BallardGlover and Rylee Waddell from Iron Station for joining volunteers Carol and Morris Teeter, along with certified trail masters Alberto Beani and Leonard Smith (safety vests) for overgrowth removal around Shorts Lake in Crowders Mountain State Park. See facebook.com/FriendsOfCrowdersMtn or www.friendsofcrowders.com for future dates. Photo by Verna Neal