BN_052114 by Community First Media

Remembering our Fallen Heroes

INSIDE...

6-7A

Obituaries................. 2A Opinion..................... 4A Sports ...................... 8A Garibaldi Fest ......... 10A Business................. 11A

Serving Belmont, Mount Holly, Stanley, Cramerton, and McAdenville | Volume 79 • Issue 21 • Wednesday, May 21, 2014

75¢

Memorial Day –

Walkers take cardiac disease Honoring to heart, raise over $17,000 those who served, May 25 American Legion Post 144 will sponsor a Memorial Day service at 2pm on Sunday, May 25 at Greenwood Cemetery, Belmont. Former Belmont mayor and Post 144 member Billy Joye will deliver the welcome. Presentation of the colors will be made by South Point JROTC Naval Color Squad. Fred Dixon will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem and other patriotic songs will be performed by Park Street Methodist choir. Current Belmont mayor Charlie Martin and Post 144 commander Ron Self will make remarks. The POW ceremony will be performed by Larry Norwood. Guest speaker will be Pastor Gary Richardson, Park Street Methodist Church. The closing prayer will be by Lincoln Lawing, South Point FCA. The event will conclude with a 21 gun salute by Gaston County Sheriff Department Honor Guard and taps by Brandon Putnam.

Celebration will honor the ‘Bicycle Man’ The first annual Jethro R. Mann, Sr. Friends and Family Weekend will take place June 7-8 in Belmont. Activities begin Saturday, June 7 from 5-9pm at First Foursquare Baptist Church. On Sunday, June 8, more festivities will be held at Reid Park on Sacco Street from 1-3pm. There will be music, dancing, food, a talent show, and family fun. The events are sponsored by Hood Memorial AME Zion Church, Rev. Dr. Bernard Sullivan, Pastor. For more information, call 704-8256007. Jethro Mann, also known as the Bicycle Man for his habit of repairing old bikes and lending them out to children free of charge passed away on Nov. 11, 2013 at age 96. He was the subject of a Charles Kuralt TV documentary as well as a feature story in Our State magazine. He was a beloved member of the Reid Community as well as everywhere he went.

CaroMont Health recently held the 11th annual Heart Walk to help raise awareness about cardiac disease and to promote heart healthy lifestyles in Gaston County. The walk attracted more than 600 walkers and teams on the front lawn at CaroMont Regional Medical Center and raised nearly $18,000. This total will be donated to the Heart Society of Gaston County, a nonprofit organization serving the cardiac needs of individuals living in Gaston County. “Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for both men and See HEART WALK,5A

Envisioning Belmont’s future By Alan Hodge

Photo by Alan Hodge

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

The Gaston College Kimbrell Campus in Belmont was the site last week for a public meeting regarding the city's participation in the North Carolina Main Street program. A variety of officials and concerned citizens attended the event that was themed “Picture Downtown” and featured a photographic display with shots of Belmont areas both positive and those needing attention. The purpose of the forum was to gather input from cit-

A meeting was held last week between City of Belmont officials, local citizens, and representative of the NC Main Street program to brainstorm ideas for keeping the town's downtown area vibrant and lovely.

izens regarding their views of what is good about downtown Belmont, what needs

improvement, and what parts of downtown should become in the future.

There were about 40 people there and they broke into small groups and each indi-

vidual gave input as to their vision of Belmont in five years. “We had a great turnout and we came up with five great vision statements,” said City of Belmont downtown director Reba See MAIN STREET, 5A

Living History Day set for May 31 Hundreds of Belmont citizens ride or walk past the Belmont Historical Society’s history museum on Catawba Street. They are completely unaware of the treasures this 1899 home of Robert Lee Stowe, Sr. contains. Once they step inside they are astonished, “I sure didn’t know we had anything like this in Belmont!” On Saturday, May 31 from 10am-3pm BHS is presenting a Living History Day with four main opportunities. First, visitors can tour the main house where Robert Lee Stowe, Jr., Mrs. Catherine Stowe Pharr, and Dan Stowe were born. In this house you can see many artifacts depicting Belmont’s history up to the 1950’s, Also, you may examine the Doctor’s bags, that were carried throughout the community as they made house calls. You may examine all of

Photo by Alan Hodge

The restored kitchen at the Belmont Historical Society Museum will be one of the featured attractions when the group holds its Living History Day on May 31st.

the Clarions that were published, the nickel plated stove that has been declared by Our State as “a Tar Heel Treasure”, and many items reflecting the civilian and military life in Belmont during WWII and other military conflicts. Next you can be on hand when the renovated “Stand Alone Kitchen” is dedicated. It has been furnished with pieces that are typical of that period when outdoor kitchens were common. The third opportunity will be a visit through a genuine mill house that once rested on the Acme Mill Village in North Belmont. It has been furnished with items that were commonly used in the 1920’s and 1930’s. The last feature is to be an array of activities common to the Backcountry, which is what we were in the 1800’s. Some of these activities and presentations are Blacksmithing, Spinning, Needlework, Bucket Making, Herb Identification and Usage, and a Silent Auction for a Quilt. During the day there will be several special presentations including a skit, “The Backcountry Woman During the Revolutionary War” by Dan Seufert, and a presentation by Sheila Ingle who specializes in writing children’s books about the Revolutionary Period. Between these presentations and demonstrations you may eat, enjoy music by the Catawba River Bluegrass Group, meet friends, talk to a genealogist, and find out what a “Dope Wagon” was.

Marlene Suddreth (right) was named Mount Holly Woman of the Year. Marlene is pictured with 2013 winner Elizabeth Connell.

Rev. Max Pendleton (left) was named Mount Holly Man of the Year at the recent 64th Annual Community Awards banquet. He's seen with last year's winner attorney Kemp Michael. See more community awards on page 3A.

Spread Some Natural Beauty. Mulch

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Wednesday, May 21, 2014

The Banner News | banner-news.com

■ OBITUARIES Paul Edward Callahan, Jr. U.S. Air Force veteran Iron Station- Paul Edward Callahan Jr., 72, 5483 Cocker Spaniel Court, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2014. He was born in Mecklenburg County, son of the late Paul Edward Callahan Sr. and Clara Mae Reynolds Callahan. He was preceded in death by wife Linda Callahan, a daughter Angie Hall, and a brother Marshall Eugene Callahan. He was a US Air Force Veteran and attended Little Dorothy Gwen Lyman Loving mother, and grandmother BELMONT - Dorothy Gwendolene "Gwen" Lyman, 81, passed away Sunday May 18, 2014. She was born in Gaston County, daughter of the late Clyde and Ira Drye Sisk. She was preceded in

■ MEDITATION

Flock Tabernacle in Vale, NC. He is survived by his wife Antonia Hansen Callahan; children Edward Brian Callahan and wife Sunshine of Lincolnton, Deborah Elaine Towery and husband Larry of Vale, Jeffrey Scott Callahan of Bessemer City, Lisa Fields and husband David of Mount Holly, Christopher Callahan and wife Patricia of Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Angela Callahan and husband T. J. Palmer of Mount Holly, Joseph Costanzo of Atlanta, Georgia; one sister Nancy Smith and husband Gerald of Stallings, NC; one brother James Callahan of Stallings; twenty one grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Callahan was at held 3pm Saturday, May 17, at the Woodlawn Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home with Reverend Joshua Dwight Hall officiating. Burial followed at Sunset Memory Gardens in Charlotte. The family received friends from 6-8pm Friday at Woodlawn Funeral Home and at other times at the home of Lisa and David Fields, 2035 Old Hickory Grove Road, Mount Holly. Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.

death by her husband Samuel JP Lyman and three brothers. She is survived by her daughter Sandra Long of Belmont; one son Ronnie Lyman of Belmont; five brothers Don Sisk of Gastonia, Clifford Sisk of Pensacola, Florida, Oscar Sisk of Charlotte, Larry Sisk of Maiden and Wayne Sisk of Yadkinville, NC; two sisters Elizabeth Jones of Mount Holly and Joyce Jones of Fallston; four grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Numerous nieces and

nephews. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Lyman will be held 2pm Wednesday May 21, at Centerview Baptist Church with Reverend Robbie Moore officiating. Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC is serving the family.

■ BELMONT POLICE

Linebergers • Linebergers

We offer funeral packages and we honor existing pre-need funerals.

704-629-2255 www.siskbutler.com Eddie Pigg, Funeral Director

Linebergers • Linebergers

Sisk-Butler

Linebergers Hwy. 275 E., Dallas Hwy. 27 E., Iron Station

704.922.8688

704.748.1488

Hours: Mon-Sat 9-5 • Sun 1-5

Linebergers • Linebergers

rested by Officer M. Stroupe, 701 Hawley Ave. May13: Derrick Scott Morgan, drug violations, drug violations, arrested by Officer M. Kelske, 206 Ross Court. May 13: Summer Ann Wilson, DWLR, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, Wilkinson Blvd. May 14: Jackie Dale Young Jr., warrant for arrest,

STRAWBERRIES

Imagine an earth that was once filled with darkness, chaos, unrestricted waters and no life form. God exclaimed, “Come forth” and light appeared, waters Rev. Angela Pleasants separated upon command at the First United Methodist Church, Mount Holly voice of God. As His voice continued to thunder grass and herbs, fruit trees and seeds according to its kind burst forth in praise in response to God. Seasons displayed themselves in full array and constellations echoed the rest of creation as if to say, “We are ready to fulfill our purpose.” God’s life giving word brought forth direction and order and life abounding in fruitfulness. In the beginning after God created He evaluated His work and exclaimed, “It is very good.” Genesis 1:31 NKJV. In other words all of creation was well-ordered and complete ready to fulfill its divine purpose. As a result there was a mutual rejoicing between Creator and created. There is a reason everything exists. Although I am still trying to discover the reason for the cockroach I know it still exists for some purpose. Then it happened. Sin and disobedience entered the world through Adam. As a result all of creation became

marred and corrupted waiting for the revealing of the sons of God. How can we once again discover our purpose? “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NKJV. God’s purpose for our life is to worship Him and enjoy Him forever. This plan of salvation was revealed through His Son Jesus. Redemption came through Jesus that we might once again live a purposeful life of obedience and holiness before God. Some search all their lives looking for the meaning of life or their purpose in life. They try changing jobs, hobbies and cities only to discover they still lack contentment. They are not content because they are searching in temporal things that cannot sustain us. Finding our purpose begins with a restored relationship with our Creator. Everything we say and do should stem from a restored relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Then and only then will we discover our purpose and find true contentment. God has called us and given us a mission in this world that is a part of His greater mission. “What does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8 NKJV. -Words which do not give the light of Christ increase the darkness. `Mother Teresa`

Don't Fry Day, May 23

May 12: Britany Wallace, larceny from a merchant, shoplifting, arrested by Officer M. Stroupe, 701 Hawley Ave. May 12: Reginald Javonta Griffin, larceny from a merchant, shoplifting, arrested by Officer M. Stroupe, 701 Hawley Ave. May 13: Tina Lashe Benton, larceny shoplifting, ar-

Funeral Home & Cremation Service

Living life on purpose for God

Linebergers • Linebergers

arrested by Officer K Seigler, 2220 Acme St. May 15: Walter Michael Crawford, simple physical assault, arrested by Officer K. Hall, 10 Linestowe Rd. May 15: Ebony Shancec Davis, order for arrest, arrested by Officer M. Harris, 701 Hawley Ave. May 15: Keisha Nacole Wallace, larceny shoplifting, arrested by Officer F. Bollinger, 701 Hawley Ave. May 15: Tamela Lynett Brown, larceny shoplifting, arrested by Officer F. Bollinger, 701 Hawley Ave. May16: Brian Lee Griffin, trespassing, communicating threats, arrested by Cpl. B. Herndon, 28 Barnes Dr. May 16: Lori Ann Redwood, attempt obtain money property false pretense, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, 701 Hawley Ave.

The Friday before Memorial Day is "Don't Fry Day" says the Environmental Protection Agency. While some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn. It can also lead to more serious health problems, including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system suppression. Children are particularly at risk, and simple steps like using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing will help protect you and your children from overexposure to UV radiation. Most people are not

aware that skin cancer, while largely preventable, is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The EPA recommends these action steps to help you and your family be “SunWise.” Do NOT Burn- Sunburns significantly increase one's lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds- UV radiation from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and wrinkling. Generously Apply Sunscreen- Apply about one ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and provide broad-

spectrum protection. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Seek Shade- Seek shade when possible, and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand- Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn. Get Vitamin D SafelyGet Vitamin D safely through a diet that includes vitamin supplements and foods fortified with Vitamin D. Don't seek the sun. Check the UV IndexThe UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National Weather Service and EPA.

Fellowship & Faith

Church Service Directory MT. HOLLY Bethel Baptist Church NC Highway 273 704-827-9846 Burge Memorial Methodist Church 312 W. Glendale Ave. 704-827-2726 Catawba Heights Church of God 122 Tomberlin Rd. 704-827-4225 Cbc-Memorial Apostolic 230 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-0968 Chapel Baptist Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-5526 Community Christian Fellowship 2560 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-5881 Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603 Family Worship Center 1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656 First Baptist Church-Mt. Holly 300 S. Main St. 704-827-2481 First Free Will Baptist Church 841 Noles Dr. 704-827-7461 First Presbyterian Church 133 S. Main St. 704-827-0521 First United Methodist Church 140 N. Main St. 704-827-4855

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

Mt. Sinai Baptist Church 339 S. Hawthorne St. 704-827-4320

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

New Covenant United Methodist 14514 Lucian Riverbend Hwy. 704-827-4468

Harvest Time Church of God 707 Westland Farm Rd. 704-822-8033

New Providence Baptist Church 1104 Old NC 27 Hwy. 704-827-0822

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

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

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

Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954

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

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

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 Mt. Holly Church of God 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596 Mt. Holly Noles Baptist Church Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-2013 Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201

Featured Church of the Week Alexander Memorial Baptist Church Shiloh Ame Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826

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

Springfield Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-820-0193

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

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The Banner News | banner-news.com

■ LIFESTYLES Mount Holly Poovey, Correll wed Community Awards

The Mount Holly Book Club received the Community Service Award. It was founded in 1914.

Entrepreneur of the Yea r – (Above left) Entrepreneur of the Year was given to Monica Nunn, (left) owner of SPLATT! Cakes and Such. Nunn is seen with Gaston Gazette editor Hunter Bretzius.

Emily Caroline Poovey and William Robert Correll were married Nov. 2, 2013 at Christ Episcopal Church in Charlotte, NC. The Rev. Lisa Sanders officiated at the 5pm ceremony. Following the service, a reception was hosted by the bride's parents at the Museum of the New South. The bride is the daughter of Mr. Harold Vernon Poovey, Jr. of Panama City, Florida and Mrs. Thomas D. Kania of Spartanburg, SC. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Delores D. Poovey and the late Harold V. Poovey Sr. of Belmont and the late Mrs. Carol Evans Triplett of Hickory, NC. Emily graduated from Charlotte Catholic High School and received an Associate in Applied Science Degree from CPCC. The groom is the son of Mr. Boyd Alexander Correll Sr. and the late Ann Garey Correll of Charlotte, NC and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Raynor Garey of Florence, SC, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Victor Crosby Correll of Florence. Will graduated from Myers Park High School and received a B.A. in Economics and Business from V.M.I. in Lexington, Va. He is employed with Rodgers Builders. The bride was escorted by her father and given in marriage by her parents. She carried a bouquet of red roses and a white prayer book carried by her paternal grandmother in 1953. Matron of Honor was Nikki Basinger Rowe. Maid of Honor was Brynn Ashley

Mrs. William Correll (Emily Caroline Poovey) Stewart. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth Kemp Davenport (cousin of the bride), Katharine Shuster Correll, Andrea Marie Murphy, Lauren Elizabeth Pfefferle, and Crystal Silva. Honorary Bridesmaid was Katharine Davenport Carpenter (cousin of the bride). Best man was Boyd Alexander Correll, Sr., father of the groom. Groomsmen were Boyd Alexander Correll, Jr., Brian James Finley, Zachery Davis Aiken, Christopher George Ralli, Charles Martin Barnett, and David Christopher Messina. Crucifer was Evan

Joseph Aguirre. Program attendants were John Hodges Garey, James Lee Garey, and Sarah Kate Garey, Scripture reading was by Brittany H. Hardy. The rehearsal dinner was hosted at the Mahon Adams Pavilion by the groom's father and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Raynor Garey and Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Alexander Correll, Jr. A bridesmaid luncheon was hosted by Mrs. George W. Poovey and Mrs. Michael O. Poovey at Upstream Phillips Place. After a honeymoon in Lima, Peru, they reside in Charlotte.

Volunteer of the Year – (Above right) Garrie Brinkley was named Volunteer of the Year for his work planning the 2013 Mount Holly Art and Music Festival. With Brinkley is Wendy Foster from the Mount Holly Community Development Foundation. Business of Year – (At right) Billy Rick owner of RTR Renovations was named Business of the Year. Seen with Rick is Debbie Windley, CaroMont director of development.

Get the car you love. We’ll We’ll make it affordable.

Austin honored Cindy Austin of Belmont was recently awarded Blood Services Volunteer of the Year by the American Red Cross. Austin has been a Red Cross volunteer for around 30 years and works with the bloodmobile. Photo by Alan Hodge

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Wednesday, May 21, 2014

The Banner News | banner-news.com

Opinions...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Yours, Ours, Others

â&#x20AC;?

Quote of the week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In honor of Memorial Day For love of country they accepted death...

James A. Garfield

How much tax on that trailer?! I protest!

Alan Hodge Editor

I am going to share something that happened to me last week that might save you some money and a lot of aggravation. I have a little utility trailer that I haul my bikes and other stuff around on. I paid $350 for it seven years ago. The tag renewal fee is $19. As most of you know by now, county property tax has been added to tag fees based on the value the government places on the car, truck, bike, or trailer. I went last week to the DMV office on Franklin Blvd. to get a new sticker for the trailer. By a miracle, there wasn't a waiting line! Pumped up at this stroke of unreal luck, I took my place at the counter and crowed â&#x20AC;&#x153;this must be my lucky day!â&#x20AC;? I spoke too soon. The clerk got my sticker and handed it to me and I got a $20 bill out of my wallet and put it in front of her. She looked at it and said â&#x20AC;&#x153;That will be $72.00.â&#x20AC;? ???!!! I thought she was joking. No she was not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The state has placed a value of $5,490 on your trailer,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The tax is $53.00.â&#x20AC;? I could not believe my ears or eyes when I looked at the slip of paper she gave me. But there it was $5,490. Needless to say I was outraged. The girl told me if I had any complaints I had to take the trailer to the Gaston County office so they could see and re-valuate it in person. She gave me a

number at the tax office to call as well. I rushed home and dialed the number on the paper...here it is...704-866-3414. Here's another one for vehicle appraisals- 704-810-5846. The tax office phone was answered by a man and I told him my tale of the $5,490 trailer that cost $350 new. He said the state had â&#x20AC;&#x153;messed upâ&#x20AC;? trailer values and that people had a 30-day window of opportunity to asked for a re-valuation and no, I did NOT have to drag the trailer to his office. Per his instructions, I faxed him a copy of the sheet the tag office woman gave me with the $5,490 value on it. A few computer stokes by his phalanges and the tax value of my lil' trailer plunged from over five grand to a more reasonable $200. More importantly, the tax went from $59 to two dollars. Yes I will be getting a refund but that will take from three to six weeks. I don't care. I want my money. I went round and round on this same issue last November when my 1968 MGB was also revalued at over $5,000 by DMV and tax office. I missed my 30 day window then but will not let it go by next time. The reason I am telling you this is so that if you feel your vehicle, and especially your utility trailer tax value is too high do not hesitate to protest. Call the numbers above. Do not let the government cheat you. The money you save could be your own.

Letter to the Editor To the Editor I just read your article â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taking a Trip..In a Time Warpâ&#x20AC;?. The other day, my brother, sisters, and I were talking about our family trips to the beach that took place many years before his 1963 trip. I am one of six

children so we had a variety of ages packed in the car on our day trips to Myrtle Beach. We were waked up really, really, early in the morning. I still don't know how we had room for all of us, plus towels, floats, and a picnic lunch. I can still see Mama and Daddy in the

kitchen emptying ice cube trays into a container, pouring coffee into a thermos and packing egg salad sandwiches, as we all stumbled out to the car in the dark to find our place to sleep on the trip. To this day, the

I expect valet parking at the Y I need to take you back to December 16, 2013. It was one of those cold winter days. I generally Tony Marciano arrive at the Y between Guest Editorial 6:15-6:30 in the morning. Did I tell you that it was cold that morning? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important because I arrived at the Y wearing a winter coat and gym shorts, no pants. As I pulled into the parking lot, a large section of the parking area was roped off. They had blocked off at least one fourth of the spaces. It was cold that morning. (I did tell you that already? I just want to be sure you understand; it was cold that morning!) I managed to find a parking space in the main parking lot rather than have to go across the street to the overflow lot (someone explain to me why I complain about walking too far from my car to the Y where I am about to exercise.) I was not a happy camper. December 16th is the time when everyone who broke their New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolution last January shows up at the Y. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a parking spot between December 16 and January 31st. After exercising, I decided to make my position known to the staff members at the customer service desk. I had two choices. I could vent my frustration to them and tell them there was no signage the day

before to alert me that parking spaces would be reduced, nor did I receive an email informing me about this matter. I would feel better but they would see me as a jerk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; someone whom they could â&#x20AC;&#x153;grouseâ&#x20AC;? about for the rest of the day. I chose the second path. I walked up to the service desk with the most serious look on my face and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I need to address something with you. When I arrived at 6:15 this morning, a huge section of the Y parking lot was roped off. There was no notice yesterday on the bulletin board nor was there an email alerting me that parking would be very limited this morning. If the Y feels it is necessary to section off a significant portion of the parking lot without warning, then beginning tomorrow, I expect valet parking at the Y. Please inform your Executive Director to be outside. I will step out of the car and let him park it. When I am done exercising, I will expect him to retrieve my car.â&#x20AC;? She broke out in great laughter, seeing I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t serious. Life is going to happen to you and me. When it happens, we come to a fork in the road. We can vent our feeling and justify our position. We may feel better but the other person feels used and violated. The other option is to look at the situation and turn it into a funny. John Maxwell may have said it best, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your attitude is a choice.â&#x20AC;? No one can make you mad. No one can make you angry. We allow someone to See MARCIANO, 5A

See LETTER, 5A

Sidewalk Survey

Q: Should teachers get a pay raise?

Deadline for all Display and Classified Ads for the week of

May 28th

George Bray Yes, they take care of our most valuable asset, our children.

Karen Valentine Absolutely they deserve one.

Betina McClure Yes they go through a lot and are like second parents to the kids.

BannerNews Periodicals postage at Belmont, NC 28012 USPS 049-700 by Gemini Newspapers, Inc. Postmaster, send address changes to: P. O. Box 769, Kings Mountain NC 28086 Phone (704) 825-0580 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax (704) 825-0894 Office:128-C N. Main St. â&#x20AC;˘ Belmont, NC 28012

Kelly Houge Yes teachers deserve a raise they put a lot of effort into educating our future leaders. wendy.kmherald@gmail.com

alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Annie Jenkins - Advertising Representative

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Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Students enjoy helping others THE CATAWBA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY Girls on the Run team collected $554.47 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

BELMONT MIDDLE participated in the Angel Bowl fundraiser for Holy Angels and collected $1,342.15. Samantha Hendrixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Melinda Dunfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Joan Randolphâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classes collected the most money. Kaylea Gries contributed the most money among all students and student council member Ally Adams served as the fundraising project leader.

RHYNE ELEMENTARY collected $713 in the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser sponsored by the American Heart Association. Student Axzayvious Brooks collected the most money. THE EAST GASTON health sciences classes sponsored a blood drive and collected 120 units for the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas.

MAIN STREET: working to envision BelmontĘźs future From page 1A Edwards. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Main Street Board is working to take the proposed vision statements and create the final Draft for council's review. I am very confident through the Main Street Program, Main Street Board and our city's strong leadership we will preserve our unique historic downtown and keep our downtown vibrant to current and new residents.â&#x20AC;? The vision statements pretty much hit the same theme of Belmont as a small town that cherishes its past while moving forward. One stated: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Historic Belmont is a liveable, walkable, safe community that embraces its small town charm with a metropolitan location celebrating the past and shaping the future.â&#x20AC;?

Another one went like this: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Belmont is the gem of the Piedmont. A historic small town between two rivers with access to major metropolitan activities and cultural opportunities. It is a charming town with a deep appreciation of its rich history, heritage, and architecture. One visit to Belmont and you may never want to leave.â&#x20AC;? David Hostetler, head of the Historic Belmont Foundation, attended the Main Street event. "The Main Street meeting was a well run, interactive meeting that incorporated citizen input to a vision statement for Belmont,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was well attended and allowed citizens to have meaningful input, which I think is very important.â&#x20AC;? Members of the North Carolina Main Street Center, a part of the De-

partment of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, have been working with the city were also on hand. To enter the Main Street program, the City of Belmont had to apply and commit to three years of participation. Belmont was designated as a North Carolina Main Street community in 2000, however it dropped its membership in 2010 but is now back on board. With Belmontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s redesignation, there are 60 active Main Street communities and 45 active Small Town Main Street communities in North Carolina. Both programs follow a four-point approach focused on downtown revitalization: organization, design, promotion and economic restructuring.

HEART WALK raises over $17,000 cular practice in Gaston County, performed nearly 300 heart surgeries in 2013. Nationally ranked for top quality cardiac care, CaroMont Heart offers five convenient locations in Gastonia, Belmont, Lincolnton, Shelby and Lake Wylie to provide a complete range of services and treatments for cardiac care. The Heart Walk is one of the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest events to raise money for cardiac care in Gaston

From page 1A women, and it is the number one killer in Gaston County,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Mark Thompson, Cardiologist at CaroMont Heart. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Together, with the Heart Society, we are able to raise awareness about this serious issue, as well as teach people about leading a healthy lifestyle, in order to prevent heart attack and disease.â&#x20AC;? CaroMont Heart, the largest cardiology and vas-

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County. Participants are encouraged to form teams to promote the event and raise donations. The top three fundraisers this year are CaroMont Environmental Services (Soleful Hearts) bringing in $3,500; CaroMont Heart 200 (Bundled Branch Brigade) raising $1,972; and CaroMont Heart 300 (Rhythmics) collecting $1,800. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Heart Walk is a very special event,â&#x20AC;? said Renee Anthony, Director of

the Heart Society of Gaston County. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The effort and enthusiasm of so many people result in significant funding for our programs, which means that we can more fully meet the needs of people who cannot afford their cardiac-related medications, reach more adults with cholesterol and blood pressure screenings, and provide heart health education programs for youth.â&#x20AC;?

LETTER from page 4A aroma of coffee from a thermos and egg salad sandwiches can take us right back to our childhood and family beach trips. The highlight of the trip on the way to the beach was waking up to the rising of the sun. When we arrived at the beach, we parked on a road that ended where the sand began. We rented a beach umbrella, spread our towels on the sand and rushed to the ocean to feel the waves splashing over us, sometimes splashing in our faces, making us not only feel, but taste the salt water. We spent all day playing at the beach. The return trip was not so much fun. All of us are fair-skinned, so we rode home with sunburn, sand in our bathing suits, and the smell of Noxzema (which we carefully spread on our skin to help cool the sunburn). But you know what, since reading your article that took my mind back in time, I can't wipe the smile off my face....thinking back on our family beach trips. Thanks, Alan, for jogging that memory. Barbara Miller Mount Holly

MARCIANO from page 4A move us into that zone. John Maxwell goes on to say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your attitude will determine your altitude.â&#x20AC;? Your attitude can determine how far you go in life. If you think you are beaten, you are. If you think your best days are behind you, they are. However, if you see that you are not beaten, then no one can keep you down. If you believe your best days are ahead of you, they will be. I like this Scripture verse that says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a man thinks in his heart, so is heâ&#x20AC;?. You and I will always

face a fork in the road. Take the high road. Take the fork that brings out the best in other people. You will find it will also bring out the best in you as well. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be back in two weeks. Until then, live well my friend. Rev. Tony Marciano is the Executive Director of the Charlotte Rescue Mission. He is available to speak to your group. Go to www.charlotterescuemission.org and go to contact us then ask for Pam.

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By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

When the Japanese surrendered on August 15, 1945, World War II effectively ended. However, the cost in lives lost during the war by service members from Belmont and Mount Holly added a somber tone to the brief celebrations that took place in those and other nearby towns. The Belmont Banner and Mount Holly News both ran similar feature fronts announcing the end of hostilities

between the warring nations, and reading those articles gives us a glimpse into a time when the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Greatest Generationâ&#x20AC;? gave their best, and all too often their lives, in the cause of freedom. The August 22 Banner and August 17 Mount Holly News front pages summed it up. Under a huge heading of the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peaceâ&#x20AC;? an editorial laid out how out folks felt about the end of the war. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peace at last has been announced,â&#x20AC;? the feature began. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It came to Belmont and Mount Holly as a rather pleasant

surprise to everyone. For a few hours there was a rather brief period of shouting and horn blowing yet it died down rather quickly. We want to believe in the neighborly feeling of our people, one for another, that kept everything orderly. Peace has come to many of us, but to others whose sons served their country and who paid the Supreme Sacrifice, it was a saddened time. Here we have some boy, on nearly every street, and in every section who will not come back to us. They have not now and never will be forgotten by this community. They were boys that did a great job and did it well. Peace will bring us shortly closer together at home. There will be, and soon, a return to normalcy. Workers will be hunting jobs and industry will be on its toes in a competitive market trying to get orders to keep the mills running. We will be able to buy what we want and we will watch our dollars. Peace will cause the majority of people to soon settle down and realize that the hub-dub of the drive for war will turn into the hub-dub for quality in work. Belmont and Mount Holly is the last stop for our local boys, and everyone is waiting for them. God speed them home to us.â&#x20AC;? But even up to the final days of the war, articles and photos kept appearing in the Banner and News of local lads killed or missing in action. One as late as late as Sept. 12, 1945 had a photo and story about Air Corps Lt. Charles McKnight and the fact that he had originally been reported missing on a raid since Nov. 26, 1943 over Oldenburg, Germany but had now been listed as Killed in Action. McKnight had entered the Air Corps in June, 1942 after his graduation from Belmont Abbey. He left for overseas on August 31, 1943 and turned 21-years-old on October 20. He was a bombardier on a B-17 and just prior to his disappearance had been

Archival Material

This photo and article announcing the long feared official notification of the November 1943 combat death of Air Corps Lt. Charles McKnight appeared in the September, 1945 Belmont Banner and Mount Holly Newsweeks after the official end of WWII. He had previously been listed as Missing in Action. Over 300 service members from Gaston County lost their lives in that global conflict. awarded the Air Medal for having flown five missions over Europe. His chaplain wrote his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.H. McKnight of Belmont of their son's courage and faith. McKnight's story is just one of dozens and dozens similar to it that had graced the pages of the Banner and News during WWII. After all was said and done, around 300 military personnel from Gaston County gave their lives on battlefields, in the air, and on the seas across the globe during the years 1941-1945.

Why do we celebrate Memorial Day? Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published

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in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclu-

sively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his See HISTORY, 7A

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HISTORY: why do we celebrate Memorial Day? their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."

From page 6A official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee. In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem: We cherish too, the Poppy red That grows on fields where valor led, It seems to signal to the skies That blood of heroes never dies. She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country. There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each

flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years. To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in

The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country. But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day." www.usmemorialday.org

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After numerous delays, workers sprang into action last week and completed the concrete and block foundation in Stowe Park that will be the new home for the Spirit of the Fighting Yank WWII memorial statue.

William Gaston honored for his service to NC On March 27, Gaston Capital Partners â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Gastonia-based group that invests in small companies that have the potential to grow to national or international businesses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hosted an informational event at the Gaston Country Club with one very special, historical guest: William Gaston. With a name often uttered throughout Gaston County, William Gaston is a locally historic figure that seemingly few discuss. However, his significance to this region and our state run deep, including his service as a United States Representative from N.C. and authoring the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official song, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Old North State.â&#x20AC;? Gastonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name can be discovered throughout the County â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gaston College, a building on the campus of Belmont Abbey College, Gastonia,â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and beyond. Gaston Capital Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; founder and Managing Partner Michael â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mickâ&#x20AC;? McMahan provided this statesman some additional acknowledgment as well by naming his newest venture, the William Gaston Fund, in his honor. At the March 27 informational event, Gastonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special appearance brought significance to the fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Contributed Photo

Troy Feay (as William Gaston) and Mick McMahan, share a few lines about the William Gaston Fund and comparisons between Gastonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time and today. namesake. The role of Gaston was played by Troy Feay, Chair and Associate Professor of History at Belmont Abbey College. As Gaston, Feay listed some of his accomplishments, including the variety of ventures named for him, such as the fund and nearby Lake Gaston. He also imparted some laughter-filled knowledge to guests through conversation with McMahan, discussing Gastonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service to North Carolina through his death in 1844.

Hospital honoring veterans From its beginnings at the City Hospital in 1908 to the large state-of-the-art hospital that stands today, CaroMont Regional Medical Center has been providing health care to the community for more than 100 years. In 1946, the hospital was organized as a memorial to all local soldiers who died in World War II. The flagship hospital, formerly Gaston Memorial Hospital, changed its name to CaroMont Regional Medical Center to better reflect its latest direction and focus on improving and enhancing the health and quality of life in the community. Of the 110 independent hospitals in North Carolina, CaroMont Regional is one of about 17 that remain independent enabling it to deliver care more nimbly and without ownership or oversight from a larger system. As such, it has been able to work very closely with the veteran community in preserving its World War II roots while continually striving to advance its health system with innovative medicine and strategic health and wellness initiatives. Upon arrival on the campus of CaroMont Regional visitors access the hospital by way of Veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Drive and Gaston Memorial Drive. The grassy knolls and shaded areas on the front

lawn are an ideal setting for staff picnics and to celebrate special occasions like veteran events. The main hospital lobby houses the war memorial garden dedicated to the legacy and sacrifice of the brave soldiers, airmen, marines and sailors, as well as symbolizing the strong history and foundation of which the hospital came to be. To honor veterans and Memorial Day, CaroMont Regional will soon announce to the community a veteran monument and its permanent location on campus. The monument will be erected in the fall nearest the West Expansion, which contains our Birthplace, a world-class birthing center. The purposeful juxtaposition provided by the Birthplace symbolizes the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s WWII origin and reference to the ebb and flow of life and the importance of new beginnings. Top 20 Beautiful Hospital vote â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CaroMont Regional was named one of America's 20 Most Beautiful Hospitals by Soliant Health in 2013, and has been chosen as a finalist again this year. The hospital is asking for votes again this year. People can vote as many times as they would like through June 15. To vote, visit www.soliant.com/hos pitals-2014/vote/

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The Banner News | banner-news.com

â&#x2013; SPORTS

Hunter headed East Gaston scores big upset for the big league in playoffs before falling By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

East Gaston had an interesting playoff run. Twice in a week the Warriors traveled to the mountains to keep their playoff hopes alive. First up was a trip to Canton. No one expected the East Gaston Warriors to be much of a threat against the Pisgah Bears. The Bears were 18-2, East Gaston was 9-12-1. The Bears were the reigning Western North Carolina Athletic Conference champs and the #1 seed in the playoffs. If you looked at everything on paper one

â&#x2013; SCHOOL

Thomas Hunter, son of Tommy Hunter of Belmont, has agreed to terms with the Atlanta Silverbacks as a goalkeeper, pending USSF approval. The Silverbacks technical staff likes the way Hunter has been training lately, and decided to offer him a contract. Hunter, a former standout at Wofford College, is familiar with the Silverbacks organization, having played against the Silverbacks Reserves in National Premier Soccer League play. He has spent the last four seasons playing with Chattanooga FC- one of the Reserves' primary rivals.

could say the Warriors were going to get slammed. But of course that's why you play the game. After the Warriors limbered up after the 2 hour bus ride to Canton they showed the Pisgah home crowd that they came to play. East Gaston slammed the Bears, led by solid pitching and strong hitting, 8-4. On the mound for East Gaston, pitcher Tyler Price came through big time for the Warriors with an outstanding game. The right-hander pitched a complete game and only surrendered 3 hits. The Warriors also had a good day at the plate. They belted out 15 hits. Chase

Hannifin had 3 hits, 2 runs and an RBI to lead all East Gaston batters. Christian Huggins was right behind Hannifin as he nailed three hits and an RBI. Tyler Price not only pitched a heck of a game but also had three hits of his own. After the Pisgah win the Warriors loaded up for another road trip to the mountains. This time they took on the North Buncombe Black Hawks in the second round of the North Carolina 3AAA. East Gaston played well; it just wasn't going to be enough to pull off another upset. North Buncombe beat East Gaston 8-3. The Warriors ended the 2014 season with a 10-13-1 record.

NEWS

The 6-foot-2 goalkeeper was named to the 2011 NPSL All-Star Team and helped Chattanooga FC reach the league final in 2012. The Belmont native has been training with the Silverbacks for the last two months. The Silverbacks are a member of the North American Soccer League. The NASL is a professional men's soccer league with ten teams in the United States and Canada. It is sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation (U.S. Soccer) as the Division II league in the American league system, under Major League Soccer (MLS) and above USL Pro.

Gaston Christian falls to Wesleyan Christian Gaston Christian softball lost to Wesleyan Christian last week by a score of 3-1. Gaston Christian's offense was led by Sarah Adams (2 for 3, home run, RBI), Lauren Adams (2 for 3), and Alanna Freeman and Mackenzie Hill each had one hit. Pitcher Madison Ramsey had the loss for Gaston Christian. This was the second round of the NCISSA State tournament, and the Lady Eagles end the season with an overall record of 12-10.

Blood drive today First Presbyterian, Belmont, is hosting an American Red Cross blood drive at the church on Wednesday, May 21 from 2:30 until 7pm.

Stuart Cramer Storm

Stuart Cramerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s musical earns three Blumey nominations Excitement was building at Stuart W. Cramer High School as Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blumey Awards Ceremony drew closer. The schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theatre arts program earned three nominations in the musical theatre awards program sponsored by the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s April production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;13â&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Musicalâ&#x20AC;? is nominated for Best Set Construction, Best Actress (Ashlyn Glass for her portrayal of Patrice), and the highest musical theatre award in the state, Wells Fargo Best Musical. The Blumey Awards are patterned after Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tony Awards. Musical productions from thirty-nine schools in the greater-Charlotte area were judged in twelve categories, and the top six productions in each category received nominations. Chuck Stowe, Director of Theatre Arts at Stuart W. Cramer shared â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were thrilled to be nominated in any category; but to get three nominations and to be nominated for Best Musical this year is beyond amazing.â&#x20AC;? Stuart W. Cramer is in its first year of operation and only has freshmen and sophomores enrolled. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are small, just over 500 students, and we are young,â&#x20AC;? Stowe continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To be recognized as one of the top six shows in the region is a tribute to the heart and the hard work of our cast and crew.â&#x20AC;? As a nominee for Wells Fargo Best

Musical, the cast performed a production number from their show in front of a sold-out crowd at the black-tie awards ceremony in the Belk Theatre in uptown Charlotte. Sophomore Carter Frady, the showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lead, commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been in more than thirty shows, but this is the best Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever been in. Everyone in the cast is amazing. And I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe we get to perform in front of all those people. This is the chance of a lifetime.â&#x20AC;? Baylee Pinkelton added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Playing Kendra in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13â&#x20AC;&#x2122; was my first musical role, and it was an amazing experience. Being nominated for Best Musical astounds me, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m definitely looking forward to performing at the Blumeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.â&#x20AC;? To get the cast ready for their upcoming performance at the awards ceremony, Stowe, along with music director Christine Fink and choreographer Leanna Cook, has been leading rehearsals of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brand New You.â&#x20AC;? Stowe said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to rework the entire song to perform it on a flat floor without all the platforms and stairs from our original set, and in a space twenty feet narrower than we originally worked in. We also reassigned solo and duet lines. The kids are working hard and are picking up the new choreography and harmonies quickly. Thanks to Leanna and Christine, they are going to be fabulous.â&#x20AC;?

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Freshman Ashlyn Glass is nominated for Best Actress for her portrayal of the eccentric Patrice. Glass had to juggle musical and competitive cheer practices during the three month rehearsal process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was sometimes a roller coaster,â&#x20AC;? she says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but like our song lyric says, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;we just keep walking on.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Pushing through the obstacles like that is essential to a successful production.â&#x20AC;? Glass will be featured in a medley with the other five Best Actress nominees during the awards ceremony. Two other Stuart Cramer students, Carter Frady and Bailey Patterson, were selected to sing and dance in the opening and closing numbers of the ceremony. Director Stowe also served as set designer for the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Getting this show ready was a lot of work, but it was a lot of fun, too,â&#x20AC;? Stowe said. Students worked on Saturdays to build and paint scenery. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was especially demanding in that we started with nothing. As a brand new program,â&#x20AC;? Stowe continued, â&#x20AC;&#x153;we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any step units, platforms or flats to start with. We had to build the building blocks before we could put them together to create the sets. It was rewarding to see students who had never built anything become handy with power tools and use safe construction techniques.â&#x20AC;? See MUSICAL, 9A

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Wednesday, May 21, 2014

MUSICAL: nominated for 3 Blumeys From page 8A The award for Best Set Construction is scored for the work students do to bring a show’s set design to life. To be eligible, most of the work on the show’s set construction must be completed by students. Cast member Baylee Pinkelton was at almost every set workday and was chosen to accept the Best Set Construction award if Stuart Cramer wins. Ashlyn Glass will accept her award if selected for Best Actress; and Carter Frady will accept the award on behalf of the cast and crew if Stuart Cramer wins Best Musical. The students are already working on acceptance speeches, just in case. During the three month rehearsal process, the students had the chance to develop skills as a performer, but they also developed life skills. Jalon Watson, a sophomore and one of the principal actors in the show, commented, “I loved being part of this phenomenal production and theatre department. Working on this show helped me with my confidence level as well as my performance skills.” Freshman Samantha Greene echoed Watson’s sentiments, “It was scary at first, but it was worth it. It’s been fun to work together. The cast helped me to

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grow stronger as a person, to become more open, and to try new things. I love them all.” Tesla Thompson added, “This was my first musical and I had a great time. I made many new friendships, and this is an experience I would love to have again.” Stowe added, “Working on a musical offers participants a series of life lessons in creativity and collaboration. Communication skills are stretched; and opportunities abound for problem solving and analytical thinking. While the end product is great theatre, the process strengthens life skills.” This year marks the third time Stowe’s productions have been recognized at the Blumey Awards. In the last two years, his productions at South Point High School have won four Blumey Awards. In 2013 Stowe’s production of “Seussical” won Best Set Construction. In 2012, Stowe’s production of “Jekyll and Hyde” won three awards: Best Set Construction, Best Lighting Execution, and Wells Fargo Best Musical. Before transitioning to educational theatre ten years ago, Stowe worked for many years in professional theatre working in forty states and nine countries. He is looking forward to working on his 300th production in the near future.

Summerlin says Starnes is a ‘Star Teacher’ Gaston County Schools recently held its Star Teacher Essay Awards. Local essay winners included East Gaston High's Lanie Summerlin with the following essay: STAR TEACHER ~ Dale Starnes When I initially encountered Coach Starnes, the first aspect that caught my attention was his characteristic mustache. However, after three classes with Coach Starnes, I have learned that behind that mustache resides a hilarious, caring, and remarkable individual. Coach Starnes stands out from the other educators at East Gaston due to his attention-grabbing teaching techniques and focus on applicable life lessons. I understand all teachers sometimes struggle to retain the attention of teenagers, but I appreciate how Coach Starnes always tries to make history and politics interesting. For example, the historical plantations and government buildings I toured with Coach Starnes as a

part of Government and Students Club brought history to life in a way standard teaching never could have. Also, Billy Kaskay and I probably would never have made “A Nation Divided” student film as our semester project without Coach Starnes’ descriptive teaching and emphasis on research. Coach Starnes planted the seeds of curiosity that spurned us to go above and beyond in creating a movie that showed the Civil War on many levels and has been viewed hundreds of times. Anyone can teach history, but only a few educators can instill in their students a true, multi-faceted appreciation of social science. Even so, Coach Starnes has had the greatest influence on my life and the lives of countless other students through the wise lessons his purposely shares. While some teachers care only about covering the required material, Coach Starnes seizes every opportunity to educate his students on how to be successful in life beyond the high school classroom. For example, Coach

Starnes once devoted an entire class period to discussing the stock market in order to give my fellow classmates and me a better understanding of how to make worthwhile investments as adults. Also, during AP Government, Coach Starnes constantly reiterated the value of political involvement as he encouraged all students to determine their own political views and fight for their beliefs. I will always value the time I spent as one of Coach Starnes’ students. His unique personality and teaching methods fostered the love of history and politics that already thrived within me. I am confident Coach Starnes helped me become a more knowledgeable student and a better-equipped person. While teachers may come and go at East Gaston, there will never be another Coach Starnes. Lanie Summerlin EGHS Star Student 2014 Lanie Summerlin plans to attend Clemson and major in Political Science.

Classified Ads Home for Sale or Rent MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS M O U N TA I N Prices starting at $100/week. Call 704-739-4417 or (evening) 704739-1425. (tfn) HOUSE FOR RENT IN CHERRYVILLE -- 2BR, 1BA, central heat & AC. Includes stove, r e f r i g e r a t o r, washer, dryer, and storage building. $450 per month. Deposit required. Visit www. bryantrealty.org Call (704) 4358750 and leave message. (5/07, 14, 21, 28/14) Land for Sale CREDIT NO PROB-

LEM, OWNER WILL FINANCE with LOW DOWN PAYMENT, lots in Gaston, Cleveland, Rutherford and Cherokee Co., some with water & septic. Call Bryant Realty at 704-5679836 or www.bryantrealty.org(tfn) Lost Pet BELMONT – LOST DOG. Named Ginger. Mixed breed, lightbrown/tan coat, 14 yrs old, skin tag on eye, cystlike growth under eye, poor hearing, pink dotted collar (tags not on). Gentle, displays some confusion. Escaped from fenced backyard in Eagle Park Neighbor hood

near Belmont Central School on Tuesday morning, May 13th. If found, please call ANYTIME: 704-8253280,704-616-86 58 or 704-6168052. Owners: Cindy & John Moose. (5/21) Wanted to Buy CASH ON THE SPOT! Will buy tools, riding lawnmowers, furniture or building full of merchandise, pictures or anything of value. Will also buy musical instruments. Call: 704-300-0827 or 704-300-7676. (05/21) Yard Sale - Ads due by 12pm Friday -

KM FAMILIES YARD SALE – Sat., May 24th. 7 am – 11 am. 317 Fulton St. (off Waco Rd-Ashbrook Park) Household items, Pocketbooks, Teen’s Clothing, Golf and Fishing items. 2 DAY KM YARD SALE – Fri., May 23rd. 8 am – 2 pm & Sat., May 24th. 7 am – 10 am. 105 Cline Branch Rd ( off Stoney Point Rd). Baby items, camping equipment, handicapped items, some clothes, comforters and much, much more. Extreme Magic Cheerleaders and families will be holding a Yard Sale and doughnut sale

FREEbies Name ___________________________________________ Address _________________________________________ City _________________________ State ____ Zip ________ Phone _____________________ • Giveaways or Items Priced Up to $100 Only • Price Must be Included in Ad • Ad(s) Must be Printed on Order Blank • No More Than 3 Free Ads Per Week

• Must Include Phone Number • Start Ad with Name of Item • Only Free Animals Accepted • One Item Only Per Ad • Maximum of 10 Words Per Ad • Not to be Used For Businesses

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COPY DEADLINE: Friday before the issue date at 2pm Mail copy to: Kings Mountain Herald • PO Box 769 • Kings Mountain NC 28086

on Saturday, May 24th from 7-10. A hotdog sale and car wash will follow from 10-1. 201 S. Battle-

ground Avenue in Kings Mountain. Help Wanted

NEEDED: Someone w/tractor to plow & disc lot beside house for garden. 403

Branch St. in KM. Call: 704-7391940. (5/14, 21 & 28)

Legals

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PLACE YOUR AD TODAY by stopping by our office: The Banner News 128-C N. Main Street, Belmont or 117 N. Main St., Suite 105, Mount Holly

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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 1stt day of May as Co-Administratrix and Co-Administrator of the Estate of Linda Hedgepath Parks, 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 Renea Jenkins, Co-Administratrix and/or Steve Parks, Co-Administratrix on or before the 7th day of August, 2014, 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. This the 7th day of August, 2014. Renea Jenkins, Co-Administratrix Estate of: Linda Hedgepath Parks 317 Morning Dew Lane Mount Holly, NC 28120 And /Or Steve Parks, Co-Administrator Estate of: Linda Hedgepath Parks 2524 Ashley Court Belmont, NC 28012 BN10571 (5/07,14, 21 & 28/14)

*Ads are due by 12pm on Friday

Banner News The Banner News is sold at the following locations: Allen Drug Family Med Pharmacy QSC BB&T - Cramerton Belmont Drug Store Belmont Post Office Bright Star Grill Byrum’s Grocery Charlie’s Drugs College Park Pharmacy Cramerton Drug Cramerton Omni Mart Dales Grocery & Grill Dollar General- Mt. Holly Dollar General - Cramerton

Exxon - Times Turn Around Food Lion - Mt. Holly Fred’s Handy Pantry Jim’s Bait & Tackle Kangaroo - Belmont McAdenville Post Office Mt. Holly Post Office Nichols - S.P. Road Nichols - I-85 Quick Stop / Wimco The Banner News The Pantry #303 West View Grocery Will’s Convenience

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Garibaldifest was fun for all Photos by Alan Hodge At left: Two-year-old Rudd Wilson was at the Garibaldifest in Stowe Park Saturday and took some time to admire Grayson, Maggie, and Barkley.

Georgia Summerville and her grandfather Eric Summerville both enjoyed the Garibaldifest on Saturday.

Lulabelle the clown and Belmont's UFO expert Festus Hawkins stopped by the Banner News booth at Garibaldifest.

Meet Your Friends at Charlie’s Mon.-Fri. • 7:00AM-7:00PM Sat. • 8:00AM-4:00PM Sun. • 8:00AM-9:30AM

We want to know about your community news & events! Send it to us at alan.bannernews @gmail.com

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

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â&#x2013; BUSINESS

PRESCHOOL CONNECTION GRAND OPENING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Boasting Gaston Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Hatch Technology computer learning system, Preschool Connection Learning Academy opens on June 2, at 102 Glenway Street in downtown Belmont. A Montcross Area Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked off grand opening events on May 16, with an open house the following day. Angela Warren is owner-director of Preschool Connection in partnership with her parents David and Kathy Beaty, all three shown here cutting the ribbon. They opened the first Preschool Connection on Beaty Road in Mount Holly in 2001. The Belmont location formerly was part of the First Presbyterian Church. The 1942 building has been completely renovated and redesigned. Preschool Connection Learning Academy will serve children age 2 years through fifth grade. Holding the ribbon are Chamber Board members Carey Roberts of Carey Roberts Design (left) and Gina Falco of BB&T in Belmont. Others on the front row, from left, are Matthew and Taylor Warren, Belmont Mayor Charlie Martin, and Todd Young of BB&T. For more on Preschool Connection, call 704.829.8222. (Montcross Area Chamber photo)

Santmires honored for service Mount Holly Mayor Bryan Hough read a proclamation last week recognizing retiring streets and solid waste director Mike Santmire for his 15 years of service to the city. Santmire said an emotional farewell to his friends and colleagues. Santmireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife, Kathy Santmire pictured below, was presented with a plaque of appreciation by Mayor Bryan Hough last week for her years of volunteer work in the town.

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LAKESIDE NETWORKING AT HARBORTOWNE MARINA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A floating dock, a canoe filled with ice and cold beverages and a spectacular late afternoon view of Lake Wylie made the perfect setting for a Montcross Area Chamber "Network After Work" at Harbortowne Marina on May 8, 2014. Barbecue and all the trimmings didn't hurt, either. Harbortowne Marina owner John Maxwell (left), manager Joel Summitt (center) and the marina staff were hosts to a big turnout of Chamber members and friends. Also in the photo, are marina staff members Katelin Toler (left), Shelby Fore and Chamber president Ted Hall. Considered the best value on Lake Wylie, Harbortowne Marina offers more than 150 boat slips of all sizes, a fully stocked ship's store, an onsite boat ramp, boat storage and much more. More information at www.harbortownemarina.com, or (704) 825-5050. (Montcross Area Chamber photo)

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Each year the Banner News and area businesses honor our area high school graduates in a special Graduation Section. This section features photos of all graduates as well as stories about the graduating class. Tell your graduate how proud you are of their hard work and accomplishments and wish them luck as they embark on their futures. Simply choose one of the ads shown here to be included as a personal congratulations to your graduate. You may even include a photo! All ads will run in black & white. Photos must be a minimum of 150 dpi. Photos may be submitted as color (we will convert to b/w) or black & white. Photos may be emailed or dropped off to our office (photos will be returned). Camera ready ads must be submitted in PDF form, minimum 150 dpi, 100% black.

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ÂŠ 2014 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 30, No. 23

Are you an eagleeyed reader? Circle the 10 errors in this article.

The first mascot given to

hat do you think of when you think of Memorial Day?

the United States Murine Corps in 1922, was a bulldog by the name of

Today, many people spend the three-day weekend enjoying barbeques, movies and trips to local beaches and parks.

Private Jiggs. He quickly rows in the ranks to become a Sergeant Major. Bulldogs have appeared as

However, Memorial Day was started to honor soldiers who died fighting for their country.

mascots for several units since then. The kerrent mascot of the Marine Barracks in Washington, DC, is the 14th. He is named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chestyâ&#x20AC;? after a famous Marine Lieutenant

Every year, Memorial Day is observed at Arlington National Cemetery with the president or vice-president laying a wreath at the:

Memorial Day was originally a day to honor Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Civil War dead by decorating their graves. To find out what Memorial Day was originally called, write the letter of the alphabet that comes before each letter in the code.

General Lewis B. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chestyâ&#x20AC;? Puller Jr. Chesty goes out on pearade each week.

At West Point, N.Y., the official mascots of the U.S. Army are â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ranger 111â&#x20AC;? and

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Uncle Samâ&#x20AC;? is a character cartoonists often use to symbolize the United States. Can you draw the other half of his face?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Strykerâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;two mules. Steve Townes, a formur Army officer with the 75th Ranger Regiment

Complete each math problem to reveal the years these significant events in the history of Memorial Day took place.

How many stars can you find on this page in two minutes? Now have a friend try. Who found more?

donated the mules with the condition that one would be called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ranger.â&#x20AC;? Townes was once a mule ryder at West Point.

After the Civil War, people in several American towns started a tradition of setting aside one day a year to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers.

Following General James Garfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech at Arlington National Cemetery, thousands of participants decorated the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery.

After World War I, Decoration Day observances were expanded to honor those who had died in all American wars.

Waterloo, N.Y., was designated as the official birthplace of Memorial Day. For 100 years, the town had made Memorial Day an annual, community-wide event during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to be observed the last Monday in May.

Use pictures and words cut from the newspaper to design your own Memorial Day flag. Display your flag in your classroom or in a window at home.

A Russian wolfhound named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kolchak XV1,â&#x20AC;? is the official mascoot of the 27th Infantry Regiment in Huwaii. This unit served in Siberia during the Russian Civil War in 1918. They won the respact of the Bolsheviks who gave them the name â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wolfhounds,â&#x20AC;?

Find the words in the puzzle. Then look for each word in this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kid Scoop stories and activities.

The flag designed to honor Prisoners of War and soldiers Missing in Action includes a

which is now the simbol of the regiment. Standards Link: Spelling: Spell grade-level words.

motto. Circle every other letter to discover what it is.

This weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word:

HONOR The verb honor means to show great respect. Memorial Day is a time to honor those who died for our country.

Standar Link: Letter sequencing. Recognized identical Standards words. Skim S m and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns. patte

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple e written directions.

Try to use the word honor in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

Discuss this quote with a family member. What do you think it means? Find the letters that spell one of your spelling words in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newspaper. Circle each letter and connect the letters in the order in which the word is spelled. Repeat with each spelling word three or more times.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE GREATEST GLORY OF A FREE-BORN PEOPLE IS TO TRANSMIT THAT FREEDOM TO THEIR CHILDREN.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; William Harvard

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Many have died protecting the freedoms we enjoy today. What would happen if we lost our freedom of speech? Write about what might happen.

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