INSIDE... Firecracker 5k ............ 3A Headstones Damaged .. 4A Obituaries ................... 5A Canoe Launch Opens ... 6A Athletic Awards ........... 8A
Serving Belmont, Mount Holly, Stanley, Cramerton, and McAdenville | Volume 79 • Issue 30 • Wednesday, July 23, 2014
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Row, row, rowing in Belmont By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
North Charlotte Rowing (NCR) organization is row, row, rowing their boats from a new headquarters at the Riverside Complex at 1500 River Drive in East Belmont on the banks of the Catawba River. NCR is a spin-off of North Carolina Community Sailing and Rowing where it helped establish the sport of crew/rowing in the Lake Norman region out of the site at Blythe Landing since 2009. In November 2013, the competitive, youth and masters rowing programs were transferred to NCR and programs were operated from the waterfront of the Lake Norman YMCA while NCR searched for a permanent location. Efforts to secure a site in the Lake Norman area proved more difficult than expected. When NCR became
aware of the Riverside Complex it recognized the benefits and opportunities the Catawba River offered to rowers. In May of this year, NCR relocated to Belmont and set up operations on the riverfront that is near Alternative Beverage and Muddy River rum distillery. NCR communications director Jude Starrett said she and her fellow rowers were looking for a place with calmer waters and less boat traffic than Lake Norman. “The Catawba is a delight to row on,” she said, “and we are thrilled to be part of the Belmont community.” According to NCR, the owners of the Riverside Complex have obtained a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permit from Duke Energy, and all necessary approvals from the various local and corporate See ROWING, 4A
Unemployment benefits dry up By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
For many folks the recent Great Recession has faded away, but there are still thousands of people still feeling its sting, and the recent decision by the State of North Carolina to drastically cut the number of weeks a person can draw unemployment benefits, as well as a reduction in the amount of money, is not helping.
The latest figures from the NC Employment Security Commission showed Gaston County's unemployment rate at 6.6 percent, Cleveland County at 7.0 percent, and the state average at 6.0 percent. Effective July 1, North Carolinians filing new claims will be able to draw unemployment benefits for a maximum of 14 weeks. The previous maximum was 26
Photo by Bill Barnes
Members of North Charlotte Rowing are seen on the Catawba River at last week's Corporate Cup Regatta. The NCR is now headquartered at 1500 River Dr. in East Belmont.
City of MH receives water award By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com A number of fresh faces were in evidence at last week's meeting of the Mount Holly City Council. The folks were new city employees as well as a group of young people who are working this summer as interns. The group was introduced by several different department heads and greeted by council members who welcomed all aboard and thanked them for their hard work. Interns included Cassidy Bailey, Juliana Perez, Madison Hawkins, Steven Dodd, and Octavius Otis. New employees are Allen Hurst, Jennifer Elmore, Zachary Dyer, Miles Braswell,
Jennifer Henderson, David Pearson, Patrick Brittain, Rodney Floyd, and Doug Beam. The council was pleased to hear that Mount Holly had gained a unique distinction regarding its water quality. Clinton Cook with the NC Public Water System was on hand to give the city an award for the low turbidity of its water. Turbidity is basically a measure of water clarity. The recognition Cook presented, the Area Wide Optimization Award (AWOP), recognized for the second year in a row the goodness that comes out of the Mount Holly Water Treatment Plant. “There are only 38 water treatment plants in North Carolina that met our
goals,” Cook said. Water treatment Plant OTC Brian Wilson and several of his staff accepted the AWOP plaque from Cook. “This is a great group of people who care about water quality in Mount Holly,” Cook said. In Gaston County, only Cherryville and Two Rivers Utilities measured up to the AWOP marks. The City of Mount Holly Water Treatment Facility was built in 1983 and is designed to treat up to 6 million gallons per day, drawing its water from Mountain Island Lake. Water is treated through coagulation, sedimentation and filtration and then disinfected See COUNCIL, 4A
Lowrance joins Belmont Police Dept.
See UNEMPLOYMENT, 7A By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
Hollar to be inducted into Sports Hall of Fame By Kathy Blake Special to the Banner News
A.C. Hollar played football when many young athletes’ resumes already listed military service. A time when long-distance relationships involved hitch-hiking and stamped love letters, and game schedules were typed as “here” and “there,” not “home” and “away.” Hollar’s skills with Mount Holly High School, Belmont Abbey, the University of South Carolina and semi-pro Gastonia Volunteers have landed him a 2014 induction into the Mount Holly Sports Hall of Fame. “He was a fierce ballplayer. He really liked to
get with it,” said T e d Reece, 85, who played quarterback at B e l A.C. Hollar mont Abbey when Hollar was a 190pound defensive end, the last year the school had a football program. “He was a good, upstanding young man. He had high morals, and we respected him very much.” Frank Auten, 82, Boone, played left tackle at South Carolina to Hollar’s right tackle. “He was about as rough as you’d ever seen in college football. He was fast, and he was rough,” Auten said. “He was one of the finest, and he married a fine girl.” That girl, Jane, said “I do” to Hollar in 1953 in her hometown of High See HOLLAR, 7A
As one of the voices at the Belmont Police Department's dispatch center, and its newest officer, Pheap Lowrance, 33, helps a lot of people through their trying times and likes it just fine. According to Lowrance, it was the School Resource Officer when she was a student at South Point High that planted the law enforcement career seed in her heart and mind. “The SRO was Andy Smith,” Lowrance said. “I looked up to him. He was a positive role model for us students.” After graduating from South Point in 1999, Lowrance worked in a dental office for nine years, but her desire to put on a badge never left her. She attended Gaston College and earned her Basic Law Enforcement certificate last year. She was officially sworn in at the latest Belmont City Council meeting. “I always wanted to be a cop,” she said. The job Lowrance is currently doing involves staffing the dispatch desk. Don't think this is just about answering the phone. The
Photo by Alan Hodge
Belmont's newest police officer, Pheap Lowrance, is seen at her post on the dispatch desk. Lowrance hopes one day to be a School Resource Officer. Belmont PD dispatch room is a busy place 24/7. Lowrance sits in front of five computer monitors that have local maps and connections with other area law enforcement and emergency agencies on them. She can hear radio transmissions from the agencies as well. The incoming calls are varied and unpredictable. “We answer all 911 as well as non-emergency
calls,” Lowrance said. “It can be everything from someone asking where they can pay their power bill to serious calls such as domestics where people are screaming in your ear. The best part is helping anyone who needs it. When the phone rings you never know what kind of story you will get. There's never a dull moment.” As much as she likes her current duty on the dispatch
desk, Lowrance doesn't plan to spend her entire law enforcement career there. “I'd like to try out for other things,” she said. And one of those things is a flashback to her South Point High days. “My main goal is to be a School Resource Officer,” Lowrance said. “A lot of kids grow up without their parents around and I think I can help with that situation.”
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PFLAG Scoutmasters to hike in Trailblaze Challenge to present
play Aug. 1-2
Troop 58 assistant scoutmasters Lindsey Pontz and Lisa Dye will be taking part in the 28.3 mile Appalachian Trailblaze Challenge one-day hike on Oct. 11 to raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation of Central and Western North Carolina. Make A Wish grants the wishes of children with lifethreatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. In 2014, Make A Wish Foundation will grant the wishes of more than 241 children. There are over 200 children waiting and need your help to make their wishes a reality. To donate to Pontz and Dye's hike, visit www.trailblazechallenge.kintera.org/fallhike/L2.
PFLAG Gaston is presenting an original theatrical experience, "Dead End Road: No Turn Around?" on Aug. 1 and 2 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. St. Mark's Episcopal Church is located at 258 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia.
PFLAG members to meet
Citizen bitten by rabid fox in Gaston County
Masonry work continues at a good clip on the Spirit of the Fighting Yank statue in Stowe Park. After the stone is in place then landscaping can begin. Photo by Alan Hodge
On Tuesday July 8, Gaston County Police Department Animal Control Division received a call from Ranlo Police Department that a citizen had been bitten by a fox. Josh Syler of Stone Mountain Drive in Ranlo, was walking along a nature trail on Ranlo Ave in Ranlo when he encountered the fox. Gaston County Animal Control officials impounded the fox to be sent for testing the same day. Laboratory officials reported on Thursday, July 10 that the fox had tested positive for rabies. Gaston County Health officials have been notified and Animal Control Division will be canvassing the immediate area to advise residents of the incident and to verify pet rabies vaccinations. This represents the first positive rabies case in Gaston County this year. For further information contact Supervisor S.J. Hay or Sgt. J.F. Phil, Gaston County Police Department Animal Control Division, at 704-922-8677.
Gaston County PFLAG's next 4 Seasons Supper will be held at Johnny B’s Pizza in Belmont on Thursday, August 7. Arrive by 6pm or anytime thereafter. Members will receive 15% of all food ordered, if you will tell your server that you are with PFLAG Gaston. Gaston PFLAG meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 7pm at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 258 West Franklin Boulevard, Gastonia.
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■ BUSINESS
Photo by Matt Gregory
Around 200 folks took part in the Belmont Firecracker 5k race on the morning of July 4th. The event raised nearly $1,700 for the BCO.
Firecracker 5k raises over $1500 for BCO The Belmont Firecracker 5K event was held on July 4th to benefit the Belmont Community Organization (BCO). The event was a huge success. “The event was 'dreamed up' during my morning run on Monday, June 30th, as my oldest son Greyson, 8, wanted to run a 5k on July 4th weekend and there weren't
many in the area,” said Jodi Kines. “I contacted Julie Seligman at Walk and Run Belmont about trying to duplicate what Chad Nelson already spearheads on Thanksgiving morning and she immediately jumped on board. "With mere word of mouth and social media exposure, we drew approximately 200 runners and walk-
ers the morning of July 4th. We had a local high school student, Hannah Keel, sing the National Anthem, some pop-its for the kids to throw and kick off the event with a 'bang' and Julie and I supplied cold water, bagels, bananas, and festive cookies for the participants after the event.” The event included raffle prizes
from Walk and Run Belmont and Meese Jewelers. “At the end of the day, we raised almost $1700 for the BCO in about an hour,” Kines said. “No registration, no fees, no timing, no awards - just show up, donate what you can and participate in the festivities. It's exactly what Chad has been doing for the past 3 years on Thanksgiv-
ing and raised over $10,000 this past year for the BCO with his event. Chad is planning to continue his event this Thanksgiving and Julie and I hope to make the Firecracker 5k a Belmont tradition on July 4th. We are passionate about our community, getting folks out and active and supporting awesome local organizations like the BCO.”
Discover YOU! named Business of the Month The Mount Holly Community Development Association has named Discover YOU! as its Business of the Month for July. CaroMont Health opened Discover YOU! in 2013 to offer an innovative way to learn, move, eat and live using interactive exhibits and a unique teaching kitchen and community room. Schools, churches, child development agencies and other groups may schedule visits or reserve the community room and kitchen for meetings, birthday parties or other events. "Students really
enjoy receiving their own ticket to ride down our virtual greenway or see their colorful electronic "shadows" in our movement wall area as they make the connection between activity and their health" says Paul Herbert, Manager. "We know that adults as well as children have found Discover YOU! to be a place to learn about nutrition, portion control, local foods and food additives, heart health, lung health, stress and other healthy living components in fun and engaging ways."
CaroMont working to enhance emergency care experience CaroMont Health recently announced several projects and partnerships being implemented in Emergency Medicine at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. The goal of this effort is to enhance emergency medicine offerings in the county and continue to improve patient experiences. Emergency services play a pivotal role in a health care system and the increasing demand for these services is seen in emergency departments across the country. CaroMont Health treats an average of 100,000 patients each year making it one of the busiest emergency departments in North Carolina. This high patient volume places it in the “Mega ED” category; only five percent of emergency departments in the country see this annual high patient volume. Despite this trend, CaroMont Regional continues to be well below national medians for wait times. “We are known across the country for providing exceptional care, and our ED services must reflect that standard,” said Doug Luckett, President and CEO at
CaroMont Health. “Our ED is a major entry point for patients, so it is critical that we provide an excellent experience every time.” With this in mind, CaroMont Health is working to create opportunities for improvement. Here is an overview of the projects underway at CaroMont Health: Over the next several weeks, CaroMont will begin a major renovation and expansion project for the Emergency Department (ED) at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. T he $16.5 million project will add more than 20,000 square feet of space to the existing department, includ-
ing a larger waiting room and intake area for patients and four private triage rooms. Additionally, imaging will be relocated to better facilitate basic radiology procedures directly from triage, and a dedicated pediatric unit will offer separate waiting, triage and treatment rooms. The project will take place in multiple phases over the next 18 to 24 months. To minimize interruption during the renovation, the main patient waiting area and entrance will be relocated to the opposite side of the ED. The patient waiting room will transition to what is cur-
SODA SHOP OPEN – The Belmont Soda Shop at 31 N. Main opened up last Thursday and immediately drew a crowd. The shop is owned and operated by Andy and Brandy Mercer. Photo by Alan Hodge
rently overflow seating and traffic patterns for patients and ambulances will also shift, with all traffic entering from Entrance B (Veterans Drive) beginning Friday, August 22. During this time, additional services will be provided to patients and visitors, including securitymonitored parking and valet services.
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POLICE - CRIME
Belmont Police July 14: Lindsay Hope Neal, parole and probation violations, arrested by Officer B. Bingham, 6802 Wilkinson Blvd. July 14: Ashley Juanita Taylor, larceny shoplifting, arrested by Officer K. Hall, 701 Hawley Ave. July 14: Marshall Andrew Starnes, assault with deadly weapon, communicating threats, injury to personal property, arrested by Officer R. Berry, 1438 Perfection Ave. July 14: Cory Deshawn Foust, injury to personal property, arrested by Officer R. Berry, 215 Cedar Sst. July 15: Darrell Barnett, DWLR, arrested by Officer K. Hall, US29/74 at Peach Orchard Rd. July 15: William Shane Black, larceny, arrested by officer K. Hall, 701 Hawley Ave. Jul;y 15: Derrick Andre Bowens, DWLR, hab. misdemeanor assault, arrested by officer K. Seigler, Morning Glory Ave. July 17: Charlie Lee Mathis, DWI alcohol and /or drugs, arrested by Officer J. Barnes, I-85 Southbound. July 18: Waylon Keith Faile, simple physical assault, interfere with emergency communications, false imprisonment, arrested by Cpl. R. Cassel, 54 E. Woodrow Ave. July 19: Paul Brent Sizemore, DWI alcohol and/or drugs, hit/run property damage, arrested by Officer K. Hall, 225 Riverloop Dr. July 19: Larry Gene Sullens, habitual impaired driving, speeding, DWLR, fail to stop steady red light, flee/elude arrest, reckless driving, arrested by Cpl. M. Harris, Westover Dr.
County Police investigate Testimony begins damage to grave sites in Goins trial Sometime during the night of July18, thirteen headstones were maliciously damaged in the cemetery located at 2920 Dallas Stanley Hwy, located just outside the city limits of Stanley near the intersection of Hickory Grove Road and Dallas Stanley Highway. The cemetery, highly visible from the Hickory Grove Road side, belongs to the Springfield Baptist Church and the Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church. Among the damaged headstones is an historic one marking the grave of a man who was reportedly the last slave born in Gaston County. Anyone with information should contact the Gaston County Police Department at 704866-3320 or Crime Stoppers at (704) 861-8000. For further information contact Captain C.J. Rosselle at 704-866-3320.
using chlorine. The city owns and maintains four elevated storage tanks and one ground storage tank to send out roughly 2.4 million gallons per day of treated water throughout Mount Holly. The treatment facility is staffed around the clock by certified operators and runs a professional lab for testing and analyzing water. In other business, the council received a report from Parks and Recreation Dept. outlining its recent activities. Particulars included: Sole Patrol met 21 times in June with 79 different folks showing up a total of 936 times; Fitness Center was open 25 days in June with 37 different folks making 186 total visits; the picnic shelters at Tuckaseege Park were reserved 24 times in June with a total of 720 people; estimated attendance at Tuckaseege Park movies
A jury was selected and testimony began last week in the trial of former East Gaston High wrestling coach Scott Goins, 46, who is accused of 20 felony sex crimes including crimes against nature, indecent liberties with a child, statutory rape, and sex offense with a student. Jury selection began last Monday and continued until Thursday when a third alternate was picked. Goins allegedly committed the crimes with three former East Gaston wrestlers during the period 1998-2004. In 2013, a former team member came forward to police with his story of the alleged incident and Goins was subsequently arrested. Testimony began Friday morning. One of the accus-
ers, whose name is withheld, is 32 years old now. He described episodes that allegedly took place when he was in eighth grade and a wrestling team member. He claimed Goins made him share a small bed on road trips and then assaulted him numerous times. Other accusations leveled against Goins include using “mind training� for members of the wrestling team by having older and larger team members force younger ones to remove their clothes and put on makeup. Another claim against Goins is that he locked team members in a room, had them remove their clothes and then turning out the lights. The defense urged the jury to keep an open mind and said parents and siblings were at practices and on road trips.
Rice recalled
Photo by Alan Hodge
SCOOTER WRECK – The Belmont Police Department is investigating a traffic accident that resulted in a motorcyclist receiving life threatening injuries. The wreck occurred at 6:14 a.m. on Caldwell Farm road near the Gaston County Visitor Center, when the driver of a moped lost control of his bike while traveling east on Caldwell Farm Road. The driver of the moped, Scott E. Meeks of 3701 Dawnhurst Lane, Charlotte, was transported to Gaston Memorial Hospital with serious injuries.
COUNCIL: City of MH receives water award From page 1A
By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
was 270 folks on June 7 with next showing on August 23; registration for fall soccer girls ages 4-13 til July 25; Mountain Island Lacrosse will host a camp at Tuckaseege Park August 57; Optimist Club will host baseball camp at Tuckaseege Park August 4-7. Mayor Bryan Hough took a moment before adjournment to praise the July 4 fireworks show and the city employees who made it possible. “This is one of the most positive things we have done in Mount Holly and everyone had a great time,� Hough said.
Mars Food North America is voluntarily recalling two Lot Codes of UNCLE BEN’SŽ READY RICEŽ Garden Vegetable with Peas, Carrots & Corn pouch product, representing less than 2,000 cases. Some pouches in these lot codes were filled with a different product that contains barley, a non-wheat source of gluten, which is not declared on the product packaging. This action relates only to UNCLE BEN’SŽ READY RICEŽ Garden Vegetable with Peas, Carrots & Corn pouch products with a “Best Before Date 06/15 MADE IN CANADA� with either of these Lot Codes printed on the package: 422GBBFP1L and 423AABFP1L. No other Lot Codes, or any other UNCLE BEN’SŽ Brand products, are involved in this action. No Mars Foodservices products are involved in this action. The product should be returned to where it was purchased. For more information or assistance, please contact us toll free at 1-800-548-6253. (Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST) or via our website at www.mars.com.
ROWING: club moves to Belmont From page 1A
Photos by Alan Hodge
Mount Holly Water treatment Plant OTC Brian Wilson (left) accepted a plaque from NC Public Water System rep Clinton Cook at last week's council meeting. The award was for Mount Holly's lack of water turbidity.
These summer interns have been working at the City of Mount Holly and were introduced at last week's council meeting. From left: Steven Dodd, Cassidy Bailey, Juliana Perez, Nortavius Otis.
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agencies are in place for NCR to operate out of the River Drive location. The approvals include a Belmont Zoning permit and an all-clear from the Belmont Fire Department. The River Drive location offers NCR exclusive access and use of the property’s shoreline for its boats and equipment. Its fleet consists of three 8-man boats, four 4-man boats, 2 doubles, a racing single and a few wider bodied singles for recreational rowing. NCR rents 3200 square feet of warehouse space in the former Piedmont Processing/Spectrum mill where boats can be repaired and stored in the winter. Indoor rowing machines called ergs are also on site. NCR has approximately 20 active masters who row competitively and recreationally. It will offer Learn to Row classes for adults at this new location, as it did on Lake Norman, and hopes to field approximately 30 youth for the coming fall season. Jude Starrett said expe-
rienced coaches are needed for these programs and NCR welcomes inquiries from qualified applicants. For now, rowers wetlaunch from shore, but NCR’s lease gives it the right to build a low profile dock as one of the docks authorized under the FERC permit. Active fundraising for that improvement will begin this summer. Rowing boats known as “shells� are long and narrow structures outfitted with long oars, outriggers to hold the oarlocks away from the boat, sliding seats and foot stretchers. The boat's long length and semicircular cross-section reduce drag to a minimum. This makes the boat both fast and unstable. It must be actively balanced by the rowers to avoid tipping. Being able to balance, or "set" the boat while putting maximum effort into the oars is therefore an essential skill of sport rowing. To learn more about NCR, visit the website www.northcharlotterowing.org
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■ OBITUARIES SR. Mary Gertrude Weldon A great lady and a magnificent teacher BELMONT – Sister Mary Gertrude Weldon, 93, died Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at Marian Center, Sacred Heart Convent, Belmont, NC. Sister Gertrude, daughter of Anna C. and Arthur P. Weldon, was born in Philadelphia, PA. Sister is a graduate of the former Sac r e d Heart Academy and Sacred Heart Junior College, Belmont. Following graduation in 1939 she entered the Sisters of Mercy and according to the custom of the time her name was changed from Miriam Elizabeth to Sister Mary Gertrude. Sister Gertrude continued her education receiving her RN at Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh; B.A. in Nursing Education, Marquette University, and an M.A. in Nursing Education and Psychology, St John’s University, New York. Sister Gertrude served in a wide variety of experiences in the education field and the medical profession. She served in many nursing capacities at Saint Joseph Hospital, Asheville, and Mercy Hospital, Charlotte ranging from Obstetrics and Operating Room Supervisor, Pediatric Supervisor and Medical Surgical Clinical Instructor to Director of Nurses at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. After completing her degree in Nursing Education and Psychology she turned her attention to educational ministry. Sister began teaching Psychology, Health, Anatomy, and Philosophy at Sacred Heart College and also served as Guidance Counselor, Director of Admissions and Recruiting. Sister’s penchant for creativity led her to develop and direct a Medical Assistants Program as part of Sa-
cred Heart’s curriculum. This program was recognized and approved by the American Association of Medical Assistants and became one of the most popular tracks in the college. In 1972 Sister Gertrude changed directions again and assumed the role of principal at St. Michael’s Elementary School, Gastonia, NC. During this time she was one of the organizers of the Diocesan Principals Association and served one term as its president. In 1981 Sister was appointed Nurse Director of Marian Hall, the Infirmary for the Sisters of Mercy at Sacred Heart Convent, Belmont. She remained in this position supervising and providing skilled care for the sick until her retirement in 2000. Sister Gertrude was a charter member of the Sister’s Senate in the Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and was instrumental in its organization. She ultimately served one term as president of this Senate. Sister was always recognized as an excellent teacher and a compassionate caregiver. Her work has left indelible marks wherever she ministered and she touched the lives of people of all ages over many years. A final tribute to her is summed up in a quote from one of her former students, “She was a great lady and a magnificent teacher!” Wake and visitation was Thursday, July 17 at 7pm in Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Belmont. Mass of Christian Burial was Friday July, 18 at 10:30am in Sacred Heart Convent Chapel Memorials may be sent to Sisters of Mercy South Central Community, 500 Sacred Heart Circle, Belmont, NC 28012. Condolence messages may be sent to www.mcleanfuneral.com McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont served the family of Sister Mary Weldon.
McLean Funeral Home
L.A. Chaney Loving husband, father, and grandfather BELMONT – L.A. Chaney, age 78, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2014 at Carolina Continue Care in Kings Mountain. A native of Belmont, he was the son of L i n n and Ella Archer Chaney. H e retired f r o m Kimbrells Furniture after 30 years of service. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Daniel Chaney. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Dolla Chaney; daughters and sons in law, Denise Chaney of Ft. Mill, SC, Teresa and Kyle Brigmon, Tina and Todd Lineberger all of Gastonia, DeeDee and Sandy Bumgardner of Stanley; grandchildren, Heather Jackson, Amy Blythe, Melissa Beale, Eric Brigmon, A.J. Brigmon, Bryan Brigmon, Zach
Randel Harris Loving husband and father STANLEY – Randel "Randy" Wood Harris, 57, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at his home. He was born in Gaston County, son of the late Vaughn Lamar and Rosa Lee Harris. H e was a member of the Sons of t h e American Legion. He is survived by his wife Debbie Jones Harris;
Lineberger, Josh Lineberger, Daniel Bumgardner and Hannah Bumgardner; 7 great grandchildren; brother, Tony Chaney of Belmont; sisters, Cora “Chris” Chaney of Belmont, and Patti Powers and husband, Mickey of Kings Mountain. A service to celebrate his life was held at 11am, Saturday, July 19 at McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont Bumgardner Chapel with Reverend Olin Byrum officiating. Interment followed in Greenwood Cemetery. The family received friends prior to the service from 10-11am at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Covenant Baptist Church, 3131 Erskine Drive, Gastonia, NC 28054 or to Donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent online by visiting www.mcleanfuneral.com McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont served the family.
one son, Jeff Harris of Stanley; one brother, Scott Harris of Lancaster, SC; two half brothers, Vaughn Harris of Albuquerque, NM and Steve Harris of Chico, California. The family received friends from 6-8pm Sunday July 20, at Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly, NC served the family.
McLean Funeral Home
National Night Out set for Aug. 7 The Cramerton Police Department will host a National Night Out event on Thursday, August 7, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The event will take place in Town Center and will conclude by 9:00 p.m. Various activities are planned for adults and children and all are at no cost.
Susan Cooney Loving wife and mother Belmont – Susan Elizabeth Rhyne Cooney, 52, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 16, 2014 at her home in Wasilla, Alaska. A native of Belmont, North Carolina, Susie was born March 15, 1962 to Jack L. and Sue Wallace Rhyne currently of Forest City, NC formerly of Belmont. Susie was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter. She attended Belmont schools and gradua t e d f r o m South Point H i g h School with the class of 1980. After high school Susie attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and worked most of her life in the medical financial services field. For the last two years she was employed with Matsu Regional Medical Center in Wasilla, AK. Susie married John T. Cooney in 1989 and until 2011 lived in Belmont. Susie and John celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on July 1, 2014. Susie is survived by her parents, former Belmont mayor Jack L. Rhyne and Sue Wallace Rhyne of Forest City; husband John and their son Zachary Thomas Cooney of Wasilla, AK.; a brother, John M. Rhyne Sr. and his wife Kathy of Bel-
Reading on the Green The Town of Cramerton Parks and Recreation will be having a Reading on the Green at the Town Center, corner of Eighth Ave. and Cedar St., Aug. 13 from 6 pm to 7:30 pm., with rain date of Aug. 20. Register for a free box of summer reading books each month when you come. This event is sponsored by Gaston Literary Council.
mont; a special aunt, Connie Rhyne Atkins and her husband Chris of Belmont. She was preceded in death by her brother, Robin Wallace Rhyne, Sr., his wife Kimberly Ogden Rhyne and their young son Hunter in 1999. Also surviving is a large extended family of brothersin-law and sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles and cousins including nine nieces, seven nephews, six great nieces, and five great nephews. Susie was a loving daughter, wife, mother and friend. All who knew her admired her dedication to family and friends and enjoyed her sense of humor. A funeral service will be conducted by Reverend Joe Lawing Friday, July 25, at 4pm at Unity Baptist Church, 1005 Catawba Street, Belmont, followed by a graveside service at Greenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends before the service at the church on Friday from 13:45pm. McLean Funeral Services is serving the family. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to the Belmont Community Organization, 91 East Catawba Street, Belmont, NC, 28012. Condolences may be left on Susan Rhyne Cooney's online guest book at www.mcleanfuneral.com.
McLean Funeral Home
Sisk-Butler Funeral Home & Cremation Service We offer funeral packages and we honor existing pre-need funerals.
704-629-2255 www.siskbutler.com Eddie Pigg, Funeral Director
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Fellowship & Faith
Church Service Directory BELMONT Alexander Memorial Baptist Church 208 South Main Street 704-825-3216 Brotherhood/Sisterhood Wncc. 120 Park Street 704-825-1333 Catawba Heights Baptist Church 311 Belmont Avenue 704-827-8474 Catawba Heights Wesleyan Church 101 Beaty Rd., Belmont 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 East Belmont Presbyterian Church 901 Catawba Street 704-825-8822 Ebenezer United Methodist Church 120 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road 704-827-3366 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 Forest Pointe Church Meets at Stowe Family YMCA Bldg. 704-825-1709 Fresh Anointing Church of God 71 McAdenville Road 704-825-7283 Friendship Baptist Church 5008 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-3276 Full Gospel Church 106 School St 704-827-9621 Gaston Christian Church 5339 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-8252 Goshen Presbyterian Church Roper Street 704-827-6280 Grace Korean Chr. Assembly-God 124 Georgia Belle Ave 704-829-1091 Grace Wesleyan Church 6014 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-7959 Henry’s Chapel Ame Zion Church 151 Henry Chapel Rd 704-825-0711 Holy Comforter Lutheran Church 216 N. Main St. 704-825-2483 Hood Memorial Ame Zion Church 455 Sacco St. 704-825-6007 Loves Chapel Presbyterian Church 204 Lincoln St. 704-825-8342 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., Gastonia 704-824-1697 New Life Baptist Church 201 Oak Trail 704-822-6195 New Mills Chapel Fire Baptised 104 Morning Glory Ave. 704-825-5457 North Belmont Church of God 2316 Acme Rd. 704-827-4092 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
Featured Church of the Week Stowe Memorial Baptist Church Queen Of The Apostles Catholic Church 503 N. Main Street 704-825-9600 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 Southpoint Church Rd. 704-825-4019 Springwood Freewill Baptist 220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-827-7801
St. Marks United Methodist Church 701 Secrest Ave. 704-825-8175 Stowe Memorial Baptist Church 26 Kee Rd. 704-825-5987 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
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Wednesday, July 23, 2014
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â– LIFESTYLES Photo by Alan Hodge
Sean Bloom is seen launching his kayak at the R.Y. McAden ramp in McAdenville. The facility is located on Willow Dr. near the Pharr Yarns plant below I-85.
Belmont’s secret: best selling author, L.P. Dover By Katie Cauthen Staff Intern
Ready to hit the river? Canoe, kayak launch opens in McAdenville The R.Y. McAden Canoe and Kayak Launch, located at 119 Willow Drive in McAdenville, officially opened on Friday. Representatives from Catawba Lands Conservancy, Carolina Thread Trail and other local organizations were on hand. The new launch is one of five access points for paddle recreation on the South Fork Catawba River in Gaston County. The 8.4-mile South Fork River Blueway starts at Spencer Mountain
and continues downriver to the Town of Cramerton. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including great blue herons, osprey, bald eagles and deer. Paddlers along this stretch of the South Fork will experience some of the most ecologically diverse lands in the region. The access area for the R.Y. McAden Launch also features the South Fork Trail, a 2.1-mile natural surface trail, which weaves through portions of
the 95-acre Pharr Yarns Preserve permanently protected by the Conservancy and notable for its bird habitat. The R.Y. McAden Canoe and Kayak Launch was funded by the W. Duke Kimbrell Family Foundation, Pamela K. Warlick Fund, McAdenville Women’s Club and Community Foundation of Gaston County. The land for the access area was made available by Pharr Yarns, LLC.
NC Guardsmen host Family Day By Army Sgt. Ruth McClary 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs Special to the Banner News
North Carolina Army National Guard Soldiers of the 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade eagerly sound off for the first sergeant before they explored all the wonderful amenities at Tuckaseegee Park in Mount Holly during Family Day, July 13. The brigade usually invites family members during December drill for a nice holiday meal complete with Santa and gifts to thank them for their continued support. Yet, training needs had to be met and family day was postponed until this month. “It’s nice that we can get together, mix, and mingle in times other than deployment,� said Capt. Keith Sanders, the Company Commander of the 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. Mixing and mingling commenced as soon as roll
The daughter of Spc. Matthew Cleary, with the 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, is happy to receive a cat face during Family Day at Tuckaseegee Park, July 13. Judith Ross, of the American Red Cross, took her time adding a black nose and whiskers to the cute little face. call was over. The soldiers and their families scattered throughout the park which has two covered picnic areas, walking trails, a baseball field, tennis courts, skateboard ramps, and access to a nearby river. Dillon Verdi glided over skateboard ramps like a champ. Some of the other
North Carolina Army National Guard soldiers of the 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, play corn hole toss during family day at Tuckaseege Park, July 13. (Photos by National Guard Sgt. Ruth McClary, 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs)
Meet Your Friends at Charlie’s Mon.-Fri. • 7:00AM-7:00PM Sat. • 8:00AM-4:00PM Sun. • 8:00AM-9:30AM
kids played on the sliding board, rode a scooter, and played games. Staff Sgt. Montoreus Nolen’s daughter threw water balloons but chose not to listen to her dad when he told her to splash her mom. The unit provided gocarts and blocked off part of the walking trails for the kids to take rides. Although Grayson Treadway’s feet barely reached the pedals, he worked his way completely through the course without any mishaps. Staff Sgt. Carl Barker suggested the location and spearheaded the organization of activities for the troops and their families. Not only did the troops have access to all the attractions of the park, Barker asked for support from his family and friends to add more excitement to the day. “During the training meeting the first sergeant asked us to look for some parks,� said Barker. “Since I live in the area I looked at a few and this one seemed to have a nice variety of things for us to do.� “My mom and dad (Ken and June Barker) donated the cotton candy machine and
their time,� Barker continued. “My brother works at Pepsi so he helped us get sodas for the day.� Betty Jo, Barker’s wife, also helped bag the cotton candy. Community support ranged from a sufficient supply of ice from Reddy Ice and 300 cans of soda from Pepsi. Henry Barcz, a bookkeeping associate of Barker, donated $100 and several watermelons. Barcz told Barker that he came here from Germany and he likes to help others. Once he heard about the brigade’s family day he gladly gave a donation. “We contacted the Red Cross and they provided all the activities,� said Nikkie Newsome, the Family Readiness Support Assistant. “Bank of America donated baby bags with powder, diapers, and wipes. We have given out 40 bags so far at military events this year.� The Red Cross gave out American flags, created a nice obstacle course to keep the kids occupied and painted animals and flowers on the kids' arms and faces. Even some of the adults had their faces painted too. After watching the dogs run through the water and letting the kids play until they dropped, the soldiers ate burgers, hot dogs, watermelon, and cotton candy before tidying up and traveling back to their homes. “It turned out to be really great," said Newsome. “I’m excited because it’s really all about the soldiers and their families.� “Seems like everybody enjoyed themselves,� said Barker. “The city is probably tickled that we chose this site and enjoyed having the unit here as much as we enjoyed being here.�
" " $# $! ! # ! " & # # !#$ $ & # ) & %$ 6513 W Wilkinson Blvd in Belmont ! % % ! !"" % # ! % (704) 825-6099
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Leslie Dover, more commonly known in the literary world as L. P. Dover, is a USA Today and New York Times best-selling author. She presently resides in Belmont with her husband and two beautiful daughters. Always an avid reader and lover of fantasy fiction and romance novels, Dover began to wonder what it would be like to write her own stories. With tremendous amounts of support from family, friends, and fellow authors, Leslie wrote and self-published her first book, Forever Fae, in 2012. Since then, Dover has written ten books, including her Forever Fae series, the Second Chances series, and her stand alone novel, Love, Lies, and Deception. Originally a fantasy author, Dover has expanded her writing to include works of romantic suspense - her favorite genre. In January 2014, Dover’s books began to make it to the top lists, like USA Today and, most recently, the New York Times. She attributes her success to her love of writing. “I just love it,� says Dover, “I have all these happy endings, and some not so happy endings, in my head that I just have to write.� When asked about the most difficult aspect of writing, Dover explained the difficulty she experiences when writing about sensitive subjects – or the unhappy endings – such as suicide, miscarriage, and other tragic deaths of her characters. “I love adding tear jerking moments into my books because I think they are important,� explained Dover. “But those moments are definitely hard to write.�
New York Times best-selling author Leslie Dover (L.P. Dover) is one of Belmont’s best kept secrets. Dover said that, like many authors, her ideas for stories develop from her own personal experiences they are just “spiced up a bit�. She even mentioned that, Love’s Second Chance, one of her many romance novels, is loosely based on her and her husband’s own love story. “Never give up,� said Dover when asked what advice she would give to an up-and-coming author. “Instant success isn’t going to happen, and you’re going to get discouraged, but never give up because it will be worth it.� Because Dover is a selfpublished author, her books are currently only available online. However, her next series, Gloves Off, may be published traditionally and made available on bookstore shelves. L.P. Dover’s newest novel, A Fighter’s Desire, will be available on July 28, and her novel, Catching Summer, will be out in December. In August 2015, L.P. will be hosting the Carolina Book Fest in Charlotte that will feature over 80 local authors.
Kearney to lead Holy Comforter By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com
After a spell of looking, the Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter in Belmont has a new, full-time pastor. Micah Kearney, 29, will be stepping up to take the place of interim Pastor John Propst. Kearney will officially start his new post on July 21. The church plans an ordination and installation event on July 27 at 4pm that will include participation by the Bishop of North Carolina, Leonard Bolick. Kearney is a native of Salisbury. Both his parents are Lutheran ministers. He and his wife Jennifer have a two-year-old child, Gabriel, and are expecting a second child in November. Kearny graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne in 2007 and dabbled in elementary education for a year and a half. However, during his summers at Lenoir-Rhyne he worked as a counselor at an “outdoor ministry� for middle and high school kids called Camp Lutheridge in Arden. He eventually found year round employment there. For Kearney, that experience was a life-changer. “I love the outdoors and working with youth,� Kearney said. “I was in charge of outdoor ventures such as canoeing and hiking.� But Camp Lutheridge
Photo by Alan Hodge
Belmont's Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter is welcoming its new pastor, Micah Kearney. He will be ordained and installed at the church on July 27 at 4pm. also deepened Kearney's spiritual side as well. “It was great to mingle with pastors and peers who were serious about their faith,� he said. Moving forward, Kearney graduated from Lutheran Theological Seminary in Columbia, SC. He and his family have been living in Belmont for just a few weeks, but Kearney plans to do more than preach and lead worship services. “I am excited about being part of this community,� he said. “We love the feel of the town. It's a place where people enjoy being with each other.�
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
UNEMPLOYMENT: benefits dry up From page 1A weeks. In North Carolina, a sliding scale tied to the overall state unemployment rate determines the number of weeks a person can draw. The number of weeks fell as of July 1 based on the unemployment rate from JanuaryMarch of this year. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, no other state currently has a lower number of weeks. Other states with low unemployment benefit weekly numbers include Georgia with 15 weeks, Florida with 16 weeks, and Kansas with 20 weeks. Only two other states in the nation, Florida and Georgia, also use a sliding scale as North Carolina does to determine benefits. Most other states are still providing up to 26 weeks of unemployment. On the monetary side of the unemployment situation, the maximum amount a person will now receive in North Carolina is $350 per week. The amount a person can draw is calculated by dividing their total wages in the last two quarters by 52. That number is then rounded to the next lower whole dollar. In order to receive a payment, the total must equal or exceed $15. The exact amount of benefits and the length of time that an individual may get benefits cannot be determined until they actually file their claim for benefits. The seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate used to determine the maximum number of weeks that a person may get benefits is calculated on January 1 and July 1. U.S. Dept. of Labor statistics show that North Carolina ranks 44th in the nation as far as the dollar amount unemployed workers receive form the state. The average payment in May 2014 for North Carolina unemployed was $227.91. In June 2013 it was $301.89. Even before the unemployment compensation cuts, North Carolina’s average weekly payment was in the middle of states, ranking 25th in the nation during the second quarter of 2013. Now, North Carolina ranks 44th with only Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee and Mississippi paying less on average. According to the NC Budget and Tax Center, a project of the NC Justice Center, North Carolina became the first state in the nation to base unemployment insurance payments on a person’s last two completed quarters of earnings. Most states calculate benefits ei-
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ther as a fraction of wages in the highest-earnings quarter, or an average of the two highest quarters. North Carolina had in place a formula based on the two highest quarters. Such calculations reflect workers’ customary full-time work and earning patterns. North Carolina’s new method of calculating benefits, however, is lowering the average payment and particularly harming workers whose earnings tend to vary due to irregular schedules, reduced hours, or seasonal fluctuations. The formula can result in workers with the same overall earnings over the past year experiencing different benefit amounts because their earnings in just the last two quarters vary. A 25 percent decrease in the average benefit translates to a loss of $295 per month per person, a decline that does real harm to jobless workers who are already stretching their savings to cover basic needs. The cut is equivalent to a low-side estimate of a monthly food budget for a family of two in North Carolina, a health care premium every month for an adult and one child, and five tanks of gas. With less money for gasoline to fuel a vehicle, unemployed workers are often restricted as to how many miles they can drive to job interviews. Alexandra Sirota, director for the NC Budget and Tax Center had these remarks regarding the cuts. “The combined result of providing only 14 weeks rather than 26 weeks and changing the formula for benefit amounts will be a significant reduction in the capacity of jobless workers to afford the basics for their families, let alone put gas in their cars to get to job interviews,” she said. “And the ripple effect of these policy changes suggests the potential to slow the state’s economy. As jobless workers continue to struggle to find work in a labor market with too few jobs, there will be fewer consumers for goods and services, meaning local businesses have less demand and might lay off their own workers or be unable to sustain new positions.” Proponents of the unemployment benefits reductions say it was needed because the system had reached significant levels of debt to the federal government after the historic job loss of the Great Recession. But part of the problem also was that the amount of money that employers were required to pay into the state fund – even in good times – was too little because of tax cuts in the 1990s.
HOLLAR: to be inducted into MHSHF From page 1A Point, before he enlisted in the Army later that year. (When he was at South Carolina, she was in college in Greensboro, and he would hitch back and forth, to visit). The marriage lasted just shy of 40 years: A.C. died of lung cancer in 1991. Hollar was a menace on the football field, but a gentler, family man away from it. “I have 250 love letters that I still have in a box. About once every five years, I go through the whole thing again,” said Jane Hollar, 82, who lives across Highway 16 in Charlotte, not far from Mount Holly. “He was an MP in the Army, so he had to be kinda tough, but he didn’t have to keep the persona up after that.” The 1947 Mount Holly Hawks went 6-1-1, with Hollar playing end and wearing No. 20. He already was dating 14-year-old Jane, and the relationship accompanied their stages of growing up – graduations, the Army, attending different colleges. “My cousin was dating his best friend, so we dated so we could all go out. We dated off and on for five years before we got engaged,” she said. When Hollar played for Belmont Abbey, the media took notice. He received a varsity letter from the Athletic Council in 1948, and on Sept. 14, 1949, a Charlotte Observer article said: “After a wartime layoff, the return to the top flight by Belmont Abbey has been slow. … Coach Howard (Humpy) Wheeler put his boys to work this week for the October 1 opener with Gardner-Webb and will work them fast. … Things are not too gloomy, with 18 lettermen returning. These boys will form the nucleus of a big, hard-hitting line and a fast, versatile backfield.” It would be Wheeler’s last year coaching, and the last year the Abbey had a team. A newspaper article about that season’s opening victory over Gardner-Webb said the first touchdown occurred “behind the beautiful blocking of A.C. Hollar.” From a loss to Western Carolina: “Instrumental in holding the Baby Cats’ score down was… the stubborn defensive playing of A.C. Hollar.”
An article bylined Bernie Curren, who seemed to enjoy giving people nicknames, said, “At the flanking positions, throttling any ideas of running around Abbey’s ends, are camped Aubrey C. Hollar and ‘Please be careful, hon’ (Pinky) Loehr.” Hollar’s semi-pro days came next, and the media followed. Gastonia Volunteers coach Mason Blanton, in a newspaper article about playing Fort Bragg’s service team, said: “Along with A.C. Hollar, who is highly dependable as a good, all-around end, I don’t have much to worry about in that part of the line.” And from a story about a 58-6 victory over visiting Pembroke: “Bill Fletcher then fired a pass to A.C. Hollar for the touchdown. … Hollar scored on an end-around play for the first of three TDs in the fourth quarter.” Hollar returned to Belmont Abbey after his football career and got a business degree. He had a two-year-old son by then – and he focused on work and family. He joined a farm equipment company, moved the trio to Americus, Ga., for three years, and returned to Charlotte, where his second son was born, to work for
the Charlotte Ford Tractor Company. His title was Zone Manager – “He had a manager job for about 14 tractor dealerships,” Jane Hollar said. “That’s when we moved to Myrtle Beach and lived 27 years. “He had more friends than anyone I’d ever known. He never met anyone he didn’t like. He had lots of people who would do anything for him.” Ted Reece, the teammate from Belmont Abbey, said if Hollar were to be present to accept his Hall of Fame award, “He would be overjoyed. Oh, he would be delighted that what he’d done had been recognized.” Frank Auten, from the South Carolina teams, said the induction is “a long time coming.” What would Hollar say in his acceptance speech? “He’d just say, ‘Thank you,’” Auten said. “Just, ‘Thank you.’ That covers a lot of territory, I think, don’t you?” The eighth annual Mount Holly Sports Hall of Fame banquet will take place on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 6pm in the Mount Holly Municipal Complex. Tickets are $20 and available at Charlie's Drug, Bobby Black Insurance, and from committee members.
Classified Ads Home for Sale or Rent
LAND, RUTHERFORD and CHEROKEE CO., some with water & septic. Call Bryant Realty at 704-567-9836 or www.br yantrea l t y . o r g . (7/02,09,16 23 & 30/14)
GET RID OF ALL T H AT S T U F F ! YARD SALE ADS ONLY $10! Get yours in by noon on Friday! 5 FAMILY YARD SALE - Sat., July 26 at 7 am. 103 Country Meadows Lane in Kings Mountain.
MOBILE HOMES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTA I N - Pr i c e s starting at $100/week. Call 704-739-4417 or (evening) 704739-1425. (tfn) 3-bedroom, 1-bath house in Cherryville. $500/ month. Deposit required. Call Debbie. 704 287 5878. (7/23)
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2004 Dodge Neon, blue, sports package, great condition. $4,000. Call 704-472-4403. (7/23)
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BUILDINGS FOR RENT – (1) = 600 sq. ft. and (1) = 1600 sq.ft. Both Heated & A/C with Bath. 435 N. Piedmont Ave., KM. Call 704-739-2353 or 704-418-3848. (7/16 & 23).
VOYAGER 17” MIDARM QUILTING MACHINE for SALE – 17” throat. Excellent condition – comes with stitch regulator, overhead lighting system, 120” Hinterberg frame. Local delivery and installation. $3,000. Call : 704392-7810. (7/23)
Land for Sale CREDIT NO PROBLEM, OWNER WILL FINANCE with LOW DOWN PAYMENT, LOTS IN GASTON, CLEVE-
Yard Sales - Ads due by 12pm Friday -
Instructor now enrolling for Summer and Fall lessons in Kings Mountain. Call Michael at (980) 833-2848 for details or visit clawsonmusicstudio.c om. (7/16, 23, &30) Help Wanted ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED
in East Gaston County location. Good for individual seeking parttime employment with new consulting firm establishing an office. Duties include administrative, customer relations & light bookkeeping. Reply to cgassoc@bellsouth .net. (7/23)
CHAMPION PLUMBING CONTRACTORS, LLC HIRING Looking For Slab Plumbers. Call 704-729-4801 or Fax resume to 704-729-6419. (7/23) REGIONAL DRIVERS with CDL-A Concord or Kings Mountain, NC domicile HOME EVERY WEEKEND!
full medical/dental/vision call Jim 855-842-8501. (7/23 & 30) DRIVERS NEEDED: CDL-A LOCAL OR REGIONAL - Concord or Kings Mountain, NC. Dedicated Southeast Freight. Home every week. Call Jim 855-8428501. (7/16 & 23) DRIVERS: CDL-A. FT, Immediate Work!
Charlotte Area. 1+ Yrs Exp - Current Medical. Good Work History. For Fastest Results Apply at: www.drive4innovative.com or leave msg: 1-888-4790488. (7/16 & 23)
Legals STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 24th day of June as Executrix of the Estate of Edward P. Passailaigue AKA: Edward Perry Passailaigue , 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 Emma Passailaigue, Executrix, on or before the 2nd day of October, 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 to the undersigned. This the 2nd day of July, 2014. Emma Passailaigue, Executrix Estate of Edward P. Passailaigue AKA: Edward Perry Passailaigue 119 Moore Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 BN10578 (7/02, 09,16. & 23/14 )
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 7th day of October, 2013 as Administratrix of the Estate of Michael Allen Greene, 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 Amanda Denise Gibson, Administratrix, on or before the 16th day of October, 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 to the undersigned. This the 16th day of July, 2014. Amanda Denise Gibson, Administratrix Estate of Michael Allen Greene 1125 Ferrell Grove Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 BN10579 (7/16, 23 30, & 8/06/2014)
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 23rd day of June as Executor of the Estate of Junior Lee Ashe, 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 Wesley Clifford Ashe. Executor, on or before the 2nd day of October, 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 to the undersigned. This the 2nd of July, 2014. Wesley Clifford, Executor Estate of Junior Lee Ashe 501-A Beaty Rd Belmont, NC 28012 BN10577 (7/02, 09,16, & 23/14)
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Wednesday, July 23, 2014
■ SPORTS
American Legion Post 144 jr. team wraps up season By Art Shoemaker Special to the Banner News
The Belmont Post 144 Junior American Legion team enjoyed a very successful season of play. A record of 16-4 was the final tally for this group of rising sophomores and juniors at South Point High School. The team was led by their high school coach, Jason Lineberger. Coach Lineberger reports that the team gave tremendous effort and showed much improvement throughout the season, which will pay dividends on the diamond next spring at South Point. The Area IV tournament was held last weekend at Independence High School in Charlotte. The team suffered an 8-0 loss to Mint Hill in an early Saturday morning game. Grant Tilley surrendered only seven hits on the mound but the offense was unable to get untracked. Davis Ray led the way with two hits, and John Ledford and Matt Owens chipped in
with one each. The team bounced back in game two and defeated Haywood County by an 8-0 score. Nick Farmer allowed no hits on the mound through five innings, and surrendered only three hits in going the distance. Three Belmont youngsters, Camden Hale, Davis Ray and Grant Tilley, all contributed three hits in the win. The third and final game in the Area IV tournament for Post 144 resulted in a 6-0 defeat, again to Mint Hill. Three games in one day took its toll on the Belmont squad. John Ledford pitched well but, again, run production was lacking in this season-ending loss. Error and walks also contributed to the defeat. Mason Secrest and Matt Owens led the way on offense in the loss. This season of hard work by the team should bode well for positive results in the future as this well-disciplined group of athletes again takes to the diamond in the spring of 2015.
Belmont MS athletic awards
Wildcat of the Year (Female) Jenelle Wilcox
Wildcat of the Year (Male) Ty Tinker
Gaston Braves continue their winning ways By Art Shoemaker Special to the Banner News
Camp “Summer Breeze” A camp for children with asthma! CaroMont Health will hold a special camp for youth, ages 7 to 12 to provide education and tools to help them better manage their asthma all the while enjoying three fun-filled days of activities. The three-day camp will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 30, 31, & August 1 at the Pharr Stowe YMCA in McAdenville Signs and symptoms of asthma may include: • Shortness of breath • Chest tightness or pain • Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing • A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling (wheezing is a common sign of asthma in children) • Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu To register your child, and for more information please contact: Pam Alley, alleyp@caromonthealth.org or 704.671.7944.
Underclassman of the Year (Female) Allie Hyde
Underclassman of the Year (Male) Keaton Hale
South Point names spring sports Scholar Athletes South Point High School’s spring sports teams excelled in the classroom as well as on the field. The North Carolina High School Athletic Association Scholar Athlete program recognizes varsity teams and individual athletes for their excellence in the classroom. To be a scholar athlete team, the team must maintain a 3.1 unweighted grade point average for the designated semester and must also have at least 5 team members. To be an individual scholar athlete, the athlete must have a 3.5 weighted GPA for the designated semester. For the 2014 spring semester South Point had 6 out of 7 varsity teams named as NCHSAA Scholar Athlete teams and 102 individual athletes named as Scholar Athletes. The teams and their GPAs are Varsity Baseball – 3.289; Men’s Tennis – 3.466; Varsity Softball – 3.516; Women’s Varsity Soccer – 3.573; Men’s Golf – 3.305; Women’s Track and Field – 3.166. Varsity Baseball – Adam Andrew, Dakota Bartish, Dalton Conner, Garrett Davila, Tim Davila, Logan Edgerton, Ryland Etherton, Steven Fulcher, Camden Hale, Dan Johnson, Aaron Mauldin, Cole Merrill, Tanner Muse, Derek Perry, Zacc Romano, Mason Secrest, Donnovan Stowe, Grant Tilley, Nolan Wilson. Men's Tennis - John Jack Abrams, Ryan Furukawa, Deonte Gaston, Clay Gwaltney, Bilal Jaliawala, Sam
Killen, Karl Mark Kowalewski, Zain Lakhany, Thomas Matthew, Carlos Morales, Yash Patel, Noah Rogers, SamWatson, Eli White, Brent Williamson. Softball - Brittany Franks, Sierra Ghorley, Rachael Gordon, Blair Griffin, Jaelin Griffin, Sarah, Griffin, Alexa Leach, Morgan Mahaffey, Allison Moody, Riley Mullis, Katie Nencetti, Brianna Powell, Morgan Stachnik, Taylor Stachnik, Haley Stewart. Women's Varsity Soccer - Alexis Altizer, Brooke Arnold, Hannah Borkowski, Cora Bridgeman, Sarah Burns, Cydni Fowler, Constantina Hug, Alli Jackson, Susannah Pennington, Morgan Persgard-Howe, Grace Russell, Savannah Shaney, Haley Stockton, Hannah Stockton, Rimal Ternanni, Bailey Thomasson, Quincy Walker. Men's Golf Zach Brewer, Aaron Davis, Zane Galloway, Corey Hodges, Landon Isaacs, Hunter Marett, Maxwell Neisler, Nick Stafford, Robert Telsrow. Women's Track and Field - Lauren Andrews, Keoysha Brand, Olivia Devine, Samantha Everhart, Hannah Galvin, Jailah Grier, Victoria Harris, Ladaria Hart, Jordan Hicks, Tanisha Johnson, Kayla Karr, Hannah Keel, Kelsey Kinnett, Zakia McDowell, Destiny Moore, Myiah Nueman, Allison Parker, Jenna Rayfield, Julianna Rose, Hayley Straing, Ashley Tolson, Jasmine Willis, Holly Withers, Aurora Zeimer.
Sportsman of the Year (Female) Kailey Galloway
Sportsman of the Year (Male) Ben Bowman
BROW D E466 ANNUAL th
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Going into the Area IV finals against a very strong Shelby team the Braves currently post a 24-1 record. After losing the season opener to Cherryville the team has reeled off 24 consecutive wins, which broke a record that had stood in Gaston County at 18 wins by Gaston Post 23 in 1948. Fans enjoyed exceptional performances as the team swept Rutherford County, Cherryville and Asheville in the first three match-ups in Area IV tournament play. Especially pleasing was the three game sweep of Post 100 from Cherryville. This team is an annual powerhouse in American League play in North Carolina. Led by their outstanding coach Bobby Dale Reynolds, this team has been state champion numerous times in recent seasons. However, coach Mark King had his youngsters well prepared for this series, and the team enjoyed strong pitching and timely hitting throughout the series. There were many standouts in early play-off games. Alon Smith pitched brilliantly against a strong opponent, Cherryville. He pitched eight strong innings, with Logan Edgerton closing the game out with an effective
ninth inning of relief. Tyler Price and Chase Hannifan continued their outstanding play, both in the field and with the bat. Mitch Painter routinely robbed opponents of base hits by his tremendous hustle in the field. Aaron Mauldin has shined with the bat, as well as leading the way defensively from his short stop position. After defeating Cherryville the team faced Asheville for the right to participate in the Area IV finals. The Braves had the brooms out as they, again, swept Asheville with three wins in this series. Tanner Muse powered two home runs in a rain-shortened final game, and after early troubles on the mound, Matt Grimmett settled into a routine in holding Asheville at bay. By winning this series the team has qualified to play in the American Legion state tournament, to be played in Lexington, beginning July 25. However, before leaving for Lexington our local American Legion squad will enter a three game series with Shelby to determine the Area IV champion. These games began Saturday here in Belmont. Results of both this series and the results of state tournament play will be included in next week’s edition of the Banner.
CHAMPIONSHIP
633 South Charleston St. Blacksburg, SC
FRIDAY & SATURDAY AUG. 1ST & 2ND
Gates Open 5:00pm • Rodeo Starts 8:00pm
ADMISSION AT GATE: • Adults - $20 • Children 4-12 - $10 • 3 & Under FREE • Friday is Senior Night - 60 & Older $15 • Tickets $15 ea. for Church Groups of 20 or more • Veterans Discount with I.D. Featuring:
Specialty Clown
Jake Wilcox
We Accept Major Credit Cards
Also Featuring Featuring: Trick Artist
Shane Karson EVENTS: NEW! Cowgirl’s Breakaway - Bareback and Saddle Bronc Riding - Calf Roping - Steer Wrestling - Cowgirl’s Barrel Racing and Bull Riding -
Advance tickets may be purchased at Ed Brown’s Western Trailer - 633 S. Charleston St., Blacksburg, SC; Kelly’s Seafood - W. Dixon Blvd., Shelby, NC 704-482-9941; Tractor Supply- Spartanburg, SC; York, SC; Shelby, NC; Gastonia, NC Buford St. Ace Hardware - Gaffney, SC & Lebos Shoes & Western Wear - Rock Hill, SC. Phone For More Info: 864-839-6239 Advanced Tickets: $18 adults; $8 children 4-12; and free for 3 and under.