BN 020514

Football champs honored . . . pg 6

Serving Belmont, Mount Holly, Stanley, Cramerton, and McAdenville | Volume 79 • Issue 6 • Wednesday, February 5, 2014

In basketball action Corey Stowe hustles the ball for the SC Storm.

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Photo by Bill Ward

Belmont Council looks forward Priorities for 2014 include roads, bridges, public areas and more

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail. com The Belmont City Council held its annual retreat Jan. 24-25 at the U.S. National Whitewater Center and paddled towards some goals and objectives for 2014 and beyond.

One of the main topics on the agenda was a summary of elected officials' priorities based on meetings they had with Mayor Charlie

Martin over the past several weeks. The number of participants that Martin hosted ranged from one to four folks and they must have had plenty of ideas to share because there were 35 talking points on the list of priorities.

One of the main subjects on the sheet was the Wilkinson Blvd. (US 29/74) Corridor. Talk last year arose about the possibility of getting a new bridge for the highway over the Catawba

Wrongful death suit served on City of Belmont

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

Two years ago this month, former Belmont mayor Kevin Loftin and his friend Donna Deitz lost their lives when the car they were riding in on Wilkinson Blvd. was struck by an SUV being driven by Lester Saunders Norman, who was fleeing police.

Now, the family of Deitz has filed a wrongful death suit in the case. The suit was filed in December and served on the city last week. It claims Belmont police handled the checkpoint near McAdenville where Norman was first stopped and the resulting chase down I-85 to NC273 poorly. The pursuit came to an end when Norman broadsided Loftin's Audi that See SUIT FILED, 7

River as well as reducing the number of lanes from three to two and using the third lane for bicycles or botanical beautification in the form of plantings.

Other subjects touched on in the Martin meetings included trying to get a rail station built in Belmont, finishing the public works building, Morning Glory and R.L. Stowe Road sewer odor, fixing the I-85 bottleneck near Belmont, splash pad and walkways at Stowe

Park, donations for Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park, and much more.

The council retreat also took a look at the City of Belmont's fiscal health. Besides the FY2013-2014 budget status report, charts provided to retreatees also profiled the municipality's money situation going back a decade. As the General Fund chart showed, city revenues peaked at just below $9 million in FY2009, fell to $7.5 million in FY2010,

crept back up to $8 million in FY2011, and stayed pretty much even at about $8.2 million for FY2012 and FY2013.

Charts related to Belmont's ad valorem tax situation were also provided for the eyes of retreat participants. The numerals showed a huge increase in those revenues for the city. In FY2004 the city took in $2.8 million in ad valorem taxes.

By 2013 the figures was up to $5.3 million. Again, in

2004 ad valorem taxes made up 48 percent of the city's total revenues. By 2013 that figure had grown to 63.2 percent.

Another chart that retreat attendees feasted their eyes on showed that over the past ten fiscal years, Belmont's property valuation had gone from $600 million in 2004 to $1.5 billion, yes billion, in 2013.

Belmont's reentry into the NC Main Street Program See COUNCIL, 7

Snow Days = Fun at least for area youngsters!

By Alan Hodge

Photo by Alan Hodge

Alan.bannernews@gmail.com

After having dodged the snow bullet several times this winter, Belmont, Mount Holly, and the rest of the BannerNews area got caught directly in Jack Frost’s crosshairs last Tuesday when a couple of inches of icy precipitation fell and wreaked havoc with roads.

The snow and ice mixture started around 3pm Tuesday with lint-like flakes floating down, picked up momentum and volume around 5:30pm when larger flakes fell, and ended with silvery flurries just after midnight. By the time it was over, the snow had accumulated to around two inches.

Driving was treacherous. Roadways were already cold and the snow/ice mix stuck to them like frigid glue. The Tuesday afternoon commute saw drivers battling rapidly deteriorating conditions. An icy wind kicked up and added to the wintry scene.

By 7pm, secondary highways such as Hickory Grove Rd. that connects McAdenville with North Belmont and Stanley were barely passable. Roads in neighborhoods were sheets of ice under a thin layer of

Eliza Green and Rhett Cline teamed up for a thrilling sled ride in Stowe Park.

snow.

Belmont Public Works Director David Isenhour had his men on high alert even before the first flake fell. “We were ready for this storm,� he said. “We worked in conjunction with NCDOT. They put down a layer of liquid brine solution on the major roads and bridges. The city did the salt and slag mixture to help assist with traction. We have two city slag trucks and four men working our winter storm program and they will typically work into the late hours depending on how severe the amount becomes. Typically we’ll use about

20 to 25 tons of slag in a storm such as the one we just had. That’s about ten passes around town and secondary streets per slag truck.�

Road crew work in Belmont continued into Wednesday. By noon folks were starting to venture out in their vehicles and a thick layer of sand was evident on Main St. “We stayed out until about 10pm Tuesday and started up again Wednesday morning around 5am,� said Isenhour. “We spread some secondary roads to melt as much as we could. We used about 30 tons of salt/slag so See SNOW DAYS, 7

Land use meeting Clemson’s ‘Dabo’ Swinney to speak at sports banquet

By Alan Hodge son University as a coach in Phil Tate, was fortunate to secure set for Feb. 11 alan.bannernews@gmail.com 2003. In 2008, Swinney was Swinney as our keynote The City of Belmont will hold a meeting on Tuesday, February 11, at 6 pm in the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall to update the public on the comprehensive land use plan for the center part of Belmont. This meeting is open to the public. The church is located at 102 South Central Avenue. Please use the main entrance doors on Central Avenue.

During the meeting, Demetri Baches will present the findings of the stakeholders meetings held in December, follow-up interviews, and his ideas for the center part of town. He will also gather input from the public on this plan before completing the updates to the comprehensive land use plan.

When the 27th annual Belmont Sports Hall of Fame banquet rolls around this year on Tuesday, March 11, attendees will be treated to one of the best guest speakers ever in the form of Clemson University football coach and former Alabama wide receiver William Christopher “Dabo� Swinney.

Swinney was born in 1969 and was raised in Helena, Alabama. He attended the University of Alabama and was on the school’s 1992 National Championship team. He also lettered on the team’s 1990 and 1991 teams.

Combining scholastics with athleticism, Swinney was twice named an Academic All-SEC and SEC Scholar Athlete Honor Roll member. He graduated with a degree in commerce and business administration in 1993 and received a degree in business ad-

William ‘Dabo’ Swinney will speak at the 2014 Belmont Sports Hall of Fame banquet on Tuesday, March 11. ministration in 1995.

After college, Swinney became Alabama’s full time coach in charge of wide receivers and tight ends. When that job came to an end in 2001, he worked as a real estate developer for a couple of years before joining Clem-

named interim head football coach at Clemson, and was promoted to head coach in 2009.

That year saw Swinney’s Tigers rack up a 9-5 record and win the Atlantic Division title of the ACC. In 2011, Swinney led the Tigers to a 10-3 record, an ACC Championship, and a trip to the Orange Bowl. Also in 2011, Swinney was named Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year.

In 2012, Swinney’s Tigers amassed an 11-1 season. This was followed in 2013 by a third 10-win season in a row. From 2010-2013, Swinney had 32 wins to his credit, the most by any coach in Clemson history.

Belmont Sports Hall of Fame organizer Art Shoemaker is ecstatic about securing “Dabo� as the induction banquet guest. “The Hall of Fame Committee, with an assist from Coach

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speaker,� Shoemaker said. “Outstanding figures from the sports community have spoken at past events and with the addition of Coach Swinney this year, the trend continues.�

Ticket sales for the induction ceremony and banquet will begin shortly at various locations in and around Belmont. The names of 2014 inductees as well as the location of the ticket sales and event itself will also be named as soon as decided upon by the Hall of Fame Committee. As soon as ticket sales and the banquet locations are announced, that information will appear in the Banner News. Stay tuned.

Each year has seen the induction ceremony and banquet event increase in size and scope. “The Belmont Sports Hall of Fame banquet has grown steadily over its 27 years,� said See SWINNEY, 7

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â– OBITUARIES Ginger Moore Ladd Loved visiting the beach BELMONTGinger Moore Ladd, 75, died at Gaston Memorial Hospital on Sunday, January 26, 2014. She was born on June 6, 1938 in Bennettsville, South Carolina to the late Olin Watson Moore, Sr. and Myra Usher Moore.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Clarence Homer Ladd and three siblings, Sonya Moore Stanton, Harold A. Moore, and Olin Watson Moore, Jr., and a niece, Sonya G. Moore.

She is survived by two sisters, Gloria Moore Jones of Charlotte and Ruby Inez Moore of Columbia and her beloved aunt, Mabel Redding of Tallahassee, Florida. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and her cat, Kitty, who was her constant companion and source of joy.

After a 26 year career with Bell South, she retired in 1991 as a directory department supervisor. She later worked for Lincoln Electric. She was also a water aerobics instructor for twelve years for the Gastonia YMCA. She loved her students and they became her family.

As a member of Bethesda United Methodist Church, she was a recipient of the honorary life membership pin. She served as Worthy Matron of Mt. Holly Chapter #345 Order of the

Eastern Star. She also was past president of the Life Members Telephone Pioneers. Her upbeat personality and sense of humor made her an outstanding Telephone Pioneer Clown performing at schools, parades, and special events.

Her favorite place to visit was the beach. She especially loved lying in the sand. She and her late husband enjoyed many coastal shrimping and fishing trips.

They hosted countless fish fries in their outdoor kitchen. She loved waking up each morning to a view of the lake.

Although small in size, she was full of energy and enthusiasm and lived life to the fullest. She had a giving spirit and a big heart. She made numerous sacrifices for her family.

The family would like to thank her many friends for their devoted care during the last year. They would especially like to thank Linda Nelson.

A memorial service to celebrate her life was held at 3pm Saturday, February 1, at Bethesda United Methodist Church with the Reverend Rick Cloninger officiating. The family received friends at 2pm preceding the service in the church fellowship hall. Memorials may be made to Bethesda United Methodist Church, 3714 South New Hope Road, Gastonia, NC 28056.

Condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.woodlawnfuneral.org Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly served the family.

NFL Playoff Contest

Badcock & More Home Furniture vs

Robert D. Black Ins. Seahawks 43 - Broncos 8

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

â– MEDITATION What do you allow into your heart?

Rev. Angela Pleasants First United Methodist Church, Mount Holly

I was perusing the video aisle looking for a good mystery and came across a movie I thought would be filled with action. After the first ten minutes into the movie I hit the eject button.

The language was so horrible I could only imagine what the rest of the movie was like.

Some say, “What’s the big deal. We hear worse

than that in the world.�

It is true we cannot fully avoid the influences of the world. However, I can control what I allow to come into my home and my heart.

In First and Second Kings we read about the good, bad and the ugly of various kings of Israel.

King Hezekiah was the son of Ahaz. Ahaz was a ruthless king who introduced and erected altars to pagan cult religion.

King Hezekiah did not walk in the ways of his father. He did what was right in the sight of the Lord.

According to II Kings 20 Hezekiah walked in truth with a loyal heart to God. King Hezekiah be-

came ill and was going to die. He turned his face to the wall and prayed to God to spare his life. God heard his prayer and spared him for fifteen years. When the king of Babylon heard about Hezekiah’s illness he sent him a present and letters in hope to have an alliance.

Hezekiah was honored by this gesture and invited them into his house and showed them all the treasures – the silver and gold, the spices and precious ointment and all his armory. “There was nothing in his house that Hezekiah did not show him.� II Kings 20:13b NKJV. Isaiah questioned

Parks and Rec. gets grant

â– BELMONT POLICE Jan. 27: Kristopher Michael Schulz, felony larceny, arrested by Officer M. Kaiman, 201 Chronicle St. Jan. 27: George Thomas Caldwell, expired registration, DWLR, order for arrest, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 6136 Wilkinson Blvd.

Jan.27: Daniel Ray Bau-

com, communicating threats, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 212 Nixon Rd. Jan. 30: Ryan Christopher Marsh, breaking and entering vehicle, larceny from vehicle, DWLR, arrested by Sgt. B. Pickert, 208 Brookstone Dr. Feb. 2: Mandi Albert, re-

Help sought identifying suspects in robbery case A drink machine break-in occurred at the Lucia Food Mart, 104 Killian Rd., Stanley Jan. 29. The store’s video surveillance system at 2:13 a.m. recorded two white males, who drove up to the store in a white Chevrolet full size truck with silver rims, committing the crime.

The first suspect appears to be about 5’9 and is wearing blue jeans, a tan jacket, and a gray hooded sweatshirt underneath the jacket. This suspect also had on a ball cap and had the hood pulled up over his head.

The second suspect appears to be about 6� tall and was wearing blue jeans, a dark jacket, with a dark hooded sweatshirt underneath the jacket, the hood

pulled up over his head as well. The suspects used a hammer type object and a pry bar to beat the lock off the drink machine and then used the bar to pry open the drink machine.

The surveillance system recording of this incident can be viewed on the Gaston County Police Department YouTube site at the following link: http://www.you tube.com/watch?v=6HYl6IU ahF8&feature=youtu.be Anyone having information concerning this crime is asked to call the Gaston County Police Department at 704-866-3320 or Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000.

For further information contact Officer Kathryn Williamson at 704-866-3320.

Hezekiah concerning this visit. Isaiah then cast judgment from the Lord.

Babylon will carry all that is in his house away as well as his sons. Later in history Babylon did come and take all their possessions.

This is a lesson for us to be careful who or what we allow into our heart. If our heart is unhealthy with worldly influences it will impact our entire life. Therefore, guard your heart with all diligence through God’s Word, prayer and worship. “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.�

Proverbs 4:23 NKJV.

sist, obstruct, delay, order for arrest, arrested by Officer M. Hall, 6751 Wilkinson Blvd.

Feb. 2: Michael Richardson Jr., simple poss. marijuana, order for arrest, poss.

Sch II controlled substance, arrested by Officer M. Hall, Ninth St.

Hospice news THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS – Death of a Child (any age) Support Group, local chapter. This is a monthly support group for people who have lost a child. For more information, call Rose and John Stanley at (704) 865-7229, or John's cell (704) 616-6000. The group meets at First Presbyterian Church, 1621 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia.

FREE ADVANCE DIRECTIVE CLINICS to discuss living wills, health care powers of attorney and the new M.O.S.T. form, (Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment).

Clinics can be offered off-site at an office or church.

For more information, contact Cindy Harry at (704) 861-8405.

The Belmont Parks and Recreation Department is the recipient of a $450,000 PARTF (Parks and Recreation Trust Fund) grant through the state. This grant will be used for the development of the upcoming Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park on East Catawba Street.

"We've tried three times to obtain this particular grant and the competition is tough.

Now that the City has been awarded the PARTF grant we have the funding that will be a great help in continuing the project," stated Parks and Recreation Director, Sallie Stevenson.

The City plans to put the project out for bid and hopes to break ground on construction in the 2014 summer. “If all goes to plan we can then hope to have a grand opening of the Riverfront Park in the fall of 2015,�

Stevenson said.

In other Belmont Parks and Recreation news- The Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Board will meet Feb. 17, at 6:00pm at City Hall. The 2014 brochure is available at the Parks and Recreation Dept. or Belmont City Hall. It lists the Parks and Recreation programs, classes, athletics, and special events for the community.

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 Tuckaseege 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

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page 3

The Banner News | banner-news.com

Remember the ‘movie houses’?

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews

Long before the advent of DVDs and VCRs, folks went to the movies for visual stimulation, to see their friends, to court that special someone, and to devour popcorn, candy, and soda pop. In other words, the movie theater and drive in movies were an important part of the social fabric of small towns like Belmont and Mount Holly.

At one time during the 1940s and up until the 1960s, there were as many as eight local places in Eastern Gaston County within a few miles of each other folks could see movies. These establishments included the Gem Theater in East Belmont, the Iris Theater in downtown Belmont, the Gay Theater in North Belmont, the Moonlight Drive-In

in Catawba Heights, The Gaston Theater at 119 S. Main St. in Mount Holly, The Holly Theater on East Charlotte Ave., and the Belmont DriveIn on McAdenville Road.

There was also a theater for African-Americans. It was located in Belmont's Reid Community and was built by Sam Moore and Jethro Mann.

The Gem Theater was already an established and successful operation by the time World War II came around.

Unfortunately, the Gem met with disaster in May 1945 when it burned down. Owner E.E. Wade quickly made plans to satisfy local movie fans by offering extended hours at the Iris Theater, which he also owned. “The closing of the Gem by fire means that the Iris must take care of of the patrons,� he told the Belmont Banner.

War time restrictions on materials meant that Uncle Sam had to be dealt with in resurrecting the Gem. “The Gem will be rebuilt as quickly as the government grants us the priorities,� said Wade.

Wade got his priorities and built not only the theatre, but a strip of shops that included a barber shop, grocery, grill, and pool room.

According to Carrol Trull, Wade owned a farm and raised his own popcorn on it.

In North Belmont the Gay Theater was located on School Street across from the elementary school. By the 1960s it was in disrepair and was torn down. A vacant lot where school buses park is now located on that site.

The Gaston Theater building still stands in Mount Holly and is considered part of the

Historic District there.

The former Dorothy Jean Smith, now 82 years old, grew up during the 1940s in Catawba Heights and like many of her generation made regular trips to the Gaston during its heyday.

"It was a big deal to go to the movies back then," she said. "I saw lots of great movies like "Lassie Come Home" and musicals. We saw previews and war news before the feature film. Popcorn was five cents. I was small for my age and got in for the under 12 years old price of a quarter for See MOVIE HOUSE, 5 At right: The Iris Theater was located in downtown Belmont across from Stowe Park. The site is currently occupied by the Iris Room special event planning business.

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

â&#x2013; BUSINESS

SWERVE SALON OPENS IN BELMONT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Swerve Salon and Rejuvenation Studio celebrated its new Belmont location with a Montcross Area Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Jan. 27. The Belmont Swerve is located at 1105 Spruce Street in the Sterling Professional Park, off Park Street (Highway 273 South). Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a Gastonia location at 520 S. New Hope Road. Swerve is a full-service salon and spa with unique services including massage therapy, state of the art HydraFacialMD equipment, and Gaston Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Beauty Angel red-light therapy bed. In the photo, Swerve owner Andi Hicks is cutting the ribbon. With her (front row, from left) are Operations Manager Heather Lineberry, Jenny Ballard, Whitney Bass, Gina Smith and Suzanne Perdue. On the back row, from left, are Heather Barnes, Toni Clear and Chamber President Ted Hall. More information on Swerve at 704-829-8001, or online at www.swervesalonandspa.com.

(Montcross Area Chamber photo.)

AARONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OPENS IN BELMONT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; One of the largest Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facilities in the area is open in Belmont and celebrated recently with a Grand Opening weekend, kicked off by a Montcross Area Chamber ribbon-cutting. The 7,500-square-foot Belmont Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is in the Abbey Plaza Shopping Center at 625 Park Street. Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, a national leader in the sales and lease ownership and specialty retailing of residential and office furniture, consumer electronics, home appliances and accessories, has more than 1,800 company-operated and franchised stores in 48 states and Canada. In the photo, cutting the ribbon is Belmont Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Store Manager Mike Fure. With him from Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are (from left) Sales Manager Marie Shores, Divisional Sales Manager Mark Rubright, Product Technician Josh Caulder, Customer Accounts Manager Brian Williams and Product Technician Brett Reynolds.

Holding the ribbon at left is Chamber Board member and Stanley Town Manager Heath Jenkins along with Garrett Barwick, also of the Town of Stanley. At right, is Montcross Area Chamber President Ted Hall. Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Belmont store is open Monday through Thursday, 10-7; Friday, 10-8; and Saturday, 10-5. For more information call 704-8298023 or visit www.aarons.com.

(Montcross Area Chamber photo)Â

Sherry Reinhardt, Executive Director at the Lincoln County Coalition Against Child Abuse & Child Advocacy Center received a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her dedicated service and lasting contribution as a Board Member for the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties. Left to right: Michael Linker, Executive Director of the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties, Sherry Reinhardt, Carrie Minnich, Board Chair of the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Quickest Refund In Town!â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Soul Foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; can be healthy food CaroMont Health's Discover You facility in Mount Holly recently held a â&#x20AC;&#x153;healthy soul foodâ&#x20AC;? cooking demo.

Folks who attended the event remarked: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Enjoyed it, very informational - offer moreâ&#x20AC;?; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wonderfulâ&#x20AC;?; â&#x20AC;&#x153;I learned so much- and I thought I already ate healthyâ&#x20AC;?; â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am not diabetic but the information was valuable for home cookingâ&#x20AC;?; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Very enjoyable, good information, food was excellent!â&#x20AC;?

On the left is Mrs. Dorothy Kodzwa, and the lady on the right is Fabiola Gaines, chef and author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The New Soul Food Cookbook for People With Diabetesâ&#x20AC;?.

Photo by Dallas Paddon

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Cast your vote for North Carolina’s Outstanding Senior Volunteer Every day, North Carolina senior volunteers generously give their time and service to help others. Now heres your chance to give back by nominating a deserving older adult in your community for his or her outstanding service through the Salute to Senior Service® program.

Sponsored by Home Instead, Inc., the franchisor of the Home Instead Senior Care® network, Salute to Senior Service recognizes the invaluable contributions of adults age 65 and older who give at least 15 hours a month of volunteer service to their favorite causes.

“Seniors have so much to give and make a positive impact on our communities daily,” said Roy Goforth, owner of the Home Instead

Senior Care office serving Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland counties. “Senior volunteerism not only benefits others, but also helps seniors stay active and socially engaged in their communities – important elements of healthy aging.”

Members of the community are asked to nominate and vote for these everyday heroes now until March 1, 2014, at SalutetoSeniorService.com.

State winners will be determined by popular vote. A panel of senior care experts will then select a national Salute to Senior Service winner from among the state honorees.

Home Instead, Inc. will donate $500 to each of the state winners’ designated and approved nonprofit organizations, and their personal sto-

ries will be shared online on the Salute to Senior Service Wall of Fame. In addition, $5,000 will be donated to the national winner’s designated and approved nonprofit charity.

To complete and submit an online nomination form for a senior age 65 or older who volunteers at least 15 hours a month, and to view the contest’s official rules, visit SalutetoSeniorService.com.

Completed nomination forms can alternatively be mailed to Salute to Senior Service, P.O. Box 285, Bellevue, NE 68005.

For more information about Salute to Senior Service or the Home Instead Senior Care network’s services, call your local Home Instead Senior Care at 704-864-5500.

Belmont Parks and Rec. classes Belmont Parks and Recreation has several ongoing classes being offered.

“Brave New You” Weight Loss Challenge: Begins January 7. Meets on Tuesdays 6:30pm. Six weeks program led by Beth Usery. Bethusery1@ yahoo.com $35.

Shag: Begins January 27. Meets Mondays 7:00pm for Beginners, and 8:00pm for Intermediates. Six weeks program led by Amber and Ron Moon.

Moon1117@charter.net $40.

Guitar: Begins January 14. Meets Tuesdays 5:00pm. Ten week program led by Joe Cline kilocycles@ gmail.com . $110.

Martial Arts: Meets Thursdays 6:30pm on a year round basis at $30/month (with family discounts) led

by Robert Dills rddills@carolina. rr.com and Mark Tucker.

“Fit 4 You” group functional fitness: Mon/Wed 8:30am, Fri. 8:00am, Sat. 8:00am. Led by Ewanda Thompson at fit4youtrainer@gmail.com.

Computer Club: Meets on Mondays starting January 13 from 10am-12pm.

Led by Jim Antley jhantley@ gmail.com Free.

Genealogy: Meets on Tuesdays starting January 14 from 1:00-3:00pm.

Led by Jim Antley jhantley@ gmail.com . Free.

Little Bit Crafty : Meets on Mondays and Thursdays from 1:00-3:00pm.

Led by Barbara Lassiter. Free.

Sr. Stretch Exercise Class: Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30-

10:15am. Led by staff. $10/month for non-residents. Free to in-city senior.

Sr. Line Dance: Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:15-11:00am. Led by staff. $10/month. 2 for 1 deal: Both classes, Sr. Stretch and Sr. Line, for $10 for non-residents. Free to in-city senior.

Aquaducks: Meets MWF, 9:45am.

Senior adults water exercise meets at the Stowe YMCA. $20 in-city, $40 out of city.

Yoga: Meets Saturdays 9:00am. Led

by Jamie Jones. Jamie@belmontfitness.com.

For more information, contact: Belmont Parks and Recreation Department,704-825-8191.

Page 5

Poinsett Piano Trio to perform at the Abbey Thursday Arts at the Abbey continues on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 8pm with the Poinsett Piano Trio in concert. The program will include Fauré: Trio, Op. 120 and Brahms: Trio in B major, Op. 8. Founded in 2008, the trio consists of pianist David Gross, violinist Deirdre Hutton, and cellist Christopher Hutton. Admission is free. Donations are gladly accepted. For additional information: www.bac.edu.

DAR Workshop set for Saturday The Peter Smith Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will have a workshop on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, at the Belmont Branch of the Gaston County Library, 125 North Central Avenue, Belmont, NC. DAR State Officers will be there to advise interested individuals. This workshop is open to the public. Come out and learn about today's DAR. This is not a general genealogy workshop. If someone has documentation for their first three generations (self, parents and grandparents - birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, etc) and they believe they descend from a Patriot who served in the Revolutionary War, they can bring this documentation with them. This is a great opportunity to learn how to go about completing an application for membership in DAR.

Gigi Dover and the Big Love to perform in Dallas Feb. 14 The Gaston County Museum of Art & History is presenting Music at the Depot: Winter Concert Series at its renovated train Depot located at 205 West Main Street in Dallas.

The performance will take place Feb. 14 from 7-8:30pm featuring Gigi Dover & the Big Love.

Tickets can be bought in advance for $10 or purchased the day of the show for $15. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged since seating is limited.

Advance ticket information is available by contacting Jason Luker 704.922.7681 x 105 or Jason.luker@gastongov.com. Or, order online at http://www.brownpaper tickets.com.

In addition to music events, The Depot will also host art exhibits, programs, and other museum functions.

MOVIE HOUSES: remember when...

From page 3 a long time. One day the ticket lady asked me if i was really under 12 so I had to pay full price after that."

The local movie houses were run by well-respected businessmen. A large editorial on the front page of the Jan. 18, 1945 Mount Holly News eulogized Gaston Theater owner Leroy Willeford who had passed away the previous Sunday.

“Roy would not see a man in uniform buy a ticket to his theater,” the story read. “We have watched him and talked with him for hours at a time. It was every time he was at the theater and the Service Man started to buy a ticket that he would pass him by without the admission price. It is not within our power to adequately describe the many things that Leroy Willeford did for this community.

However, we can say he was

a real friend to all and will never be forgotten in this generation. The fact that he was unselfish, that he wanted to befriend all, caused him to suffer a long sickness without a word of his own pain. He is gone but he will never be forgotten by anyone who knew him.”

Leroy's son, Roy, managed the Iris Theater for a period of time in the 1950s.

Movies that patrons of Belmont-Mount Holly movie places saw were reflections of everything from World War II battles to torrid love affairs. Popular movies that screened in the 1940s at the Gem and Iris included “National Velvet”, “Tall in the Saddle”, “For Whom the Bell Tolls”, and “Objective Burma”.

In the 1950s the Gaston Theater was showing flicks such as “Gypsy Colt”, “The Charge at Feather River”, and “Fighting Seabees”. A June, 1954 ad in the Mount

Holly News showed the Belmont Drive-In featuring Abbott and Costello in “The Naughty Nineties”, as well as the Academy Award winning “From Here to Eternity”. That same week in 1954, the Moonlight DriveIn was screening “Vice Screen”, “Gun Fury”, and “Here Comes the Girls”.

By the time the 1960s rolled around, the number of local theaters had dropped, television sets in nearly every house being one reason. The Gaston Theater continued to run ads in the Belmont Banner and Mount Holly News. Ironically, a Gaston Theater ad in the May 1, 1968 Banner for the film “Color Me Blood Red” was placed next to one by WBTV showing its program listing for the coming week.

By the 1970s no more movie theater ads appeared in the Belmont Banner or Mount Holly News.

These days, the Belmont

www.cle velandcountyhealthcar esystem.or g

Drive-In is the “Last Man Standing” of the old time movie establishments that

were once so common. Last year the Belmont Drive-In reopened for business after

being closed a while and the response was very positive.

Photo courtesy Millican Pictorial Museum

The Moonlight Drive-In was located in Catawba Heights at the corner of Belmont-Mount Holly and Beaty roads.

Page 6

The Banner News | banner-news.com

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

â&#x2013; SPORTS

Front row: Donnie Hunter, Yates Abernathy Sportsmanship Award; Deion Jones, Belmont Drug Co-Best Defense; Tyler Bray, Dr. Wade Breeland MVP; Daishon Davis, Belmonst Drug CoBest Defense; Jaquan Brooks, Bennie Cunningham Most Improved. Back Row: Taylor Ginn, Dr, Eddie Lineberger Best Blocker; Tanner Muse, Rollins Inssurance Most Versatile; Josh Perrigo, Gerald Courtner Character, Leadership, Scholarship Award; Jacob Hoyle, Bobby Brown Unsung Hero Award.

South Point champs receive awards South Point High School presented its football awards at a banquet held on Monday, Jan. 27. This team went 13-1 overall and reached the 3A state quarterfinals. The senior class won 44 of its 51 games and won four conference championships with a 6-0 record each time. Scott Lee, South Point Athletic Director, said this team expected to win. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were a hard-working, disciplined team in practice, in school and in the weight room,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They loved to play foot-

ball."

Tyler Bray, winner of the Dr. Wade Breeland Most Valuable Player award was also named Big South Offensive Player of the Year and was named to the Shrine Bowl team. Bray rushed for 5,684 yards over his fouryear varsity career, setting a Gaston County record by 653 yards. His 85 rushing touchdowns ranks second in county history. Bray also set a Gaston County record for rushing yards in a single season â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2,556 yards, and a single game â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 381 yards â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

against Crest, both during his junior year. Bray has committed to play at Lenoir Rhyne next year. Daishon Davis, Co- Belmont Drug Best Defensive Player, was also named to the AP All State Football Team for the second consecutive year.

Daishon and Deion Jones, Co-Best Defensive Player have committed to play at NC A & T. Taylor Ginn, Dr. Eddie Lineberger Best Blocker has committed to play at UNC Pembroke.

Tanner Muse, a junior,

Rollins Insurance Most Versatile Player award winner, was also named to the AP All-State Football team and has committed to play at Clemson.

This team had 11 named to the Big South All Conference team: Tyler Bray, Deion Jones, Daishon Davis, Tanner Muse, Jaquan Brooks, Josh Perrigo, Taylor Ginn, Richard Dunning, Donnie Hunter, Jacob Hoyle, and Marcus McCollough.

Varsity awards winners

were: Tyler Bray â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dr. Wade Breeland MVP and Big South Offensive Player of the Year and Shrine Bowl team member; Taylor Ginn â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dr. Eddie Lineberger Best Blocker; Daishon Davis Belmont Drug Co-Best Defensive Player and AP All State Football team; Deion Jones â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Belmont Drug CoBest Defensive Player; Tanner Muse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rollins Insurance Most Versatile Player and AP All State Football team; Donnie Hunter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Yates Abernathy

Sportsmanship Award; Jaquan Brooks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bennie Cunningham Most Improved Player; Josh Perrigo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gerald Courtner Character, Leadership Scholarship; Jacob Hoyle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bobby Brown Unsung Hero Award.

JV awards winners: Ryland Etherton â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Co-Offensive Most Valuable Player; Nolan Wilson â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Co-0ffensive Most Valuable Player; Tyler Hall â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Defensive Player of the Year.

Jennifer Allison named Hurricane Scholar Athlete

Ryland Etherton, JV Co-Offensive Player of the Year; Nolan Wilson â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JV Co-Offensive Player of the Year.

The Stuart Cramer Storm menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball team fell to Lake Norman Charter by score of 62-27 last week. The team played hard though as seen above as Kobe Sithisaribouth battles toward the basket. The Storm are coached by Brad Sloan.

Photo by Bill Ward

Stuart Cramer Storm

East Gaston Warriors

Player of the Week

Player of the Week

Kobe Sithisaribouth Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball

Jennifer Allison of Stanley, NC was recognized as a Hurricane Scholar Athlete in a recent ceremony at Louisburg College. Allison is a member of the Volleyball team.

At the beginning of each spring semester, Louisburg College recognizes athletes who achieved high levels of academic success during the previous year. On January 15, 2014, the College recognized over 100 students during the Hurricane Scholar Athletes Awards Ceremony in the Roger G. Taylor Athletic Center.

Scholar athletes were recognized at the ceremony for their academic achievement

during the Spring 2013 and/or Fall 2013 semester. 73 scholar athletes received a Bronze medal, awarded to those who earned a GPA between 3.00 and 3.49; 45 scholar athletes received a Silver medal, awarded to those who earned a GPA between 3.50 and 3.99; and finally,16 scholar athletes received a Gold medal, awarded to those who earned a perfect 4.00 GPA. Louisburg College congratulates each one of these students for their excellence as an athlete and for their academic merit.

Louisburg College is the oldest two-year residential college in the nation, and the only one in North Carolina.

South Point Red Raiders Player of the Week

Jasmine Dee Swim Team

Austin Strenkert Swim Team

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

COUNCIL: looks ahead to 2014 priorities

Page 7

SNOW DAYS: Fun for area youngsters From page 1

From page 1 also got some scrutiny at the council retreat. Positives that the program should bring to Belmont include a strong “sense of place” for residents and business owners, a unified focus, vibrancy, inclusion of citizens into community development and planning, among other things.

Being in the Main Street Program will also allow the City of Belmont to avail itself of state perks including publications, research, training, public relations appearances, phone consultation, and statistics.

The balance between economic development and what is generally called “quality of life” in Belmont was also on the council retreat menu. Materials provided to officials profiled several things that are generally considered to be nice amenities in the area. These include the Carolina Thread Trail, Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center

itself.

Other quality of life areas the retreaters reviewed included Belmont's many sporting events, as well as street and music festivals.

Looking to the future, Belmont's retreated officials got a look at the Gaston Regional Chamber's “GastonOne” Business Action Plan 2014-2018. Highlights of the plan, which will benefit Belmont both directly and indirectly, include creation of 1,200 new and expanded jobs, generation of $300 million in new capital investment in the county, recruit at least three corporate headquarters to the county, improve downtown buildings occupancy rates to 80 percent, increase sales tax revenue by 20 percent, increase per capita income by 10 percent, increase occupancy tax by 25 percent, and reduce the county unemployment rate to one percent less than the NC state rate.

The current county rate is around 7.6 percent while the state rate is 6.9 percent.

SUIT FILED: wrongful death claim filed against City From page 1 Deitz was riding in as a passenger at the intersection of Wilkinson Blvd. and Park St. Problems with the pursuit, the lawsuit claims, includes no warning signs, cones, or flares at the checkpoint as well as lack of proper police supervision.

Police say Norman tried to run over an officer at the

SWINNEY: to speak at sports banquet From page 1 Shoemaker. “It is recognized state wide as one of the best of its kind. A tremendous demand for tickets is expected.

I recommended that all who wish to attend purchase them quickly.”

This year’s induction ceremony will continue the lasting contribution that the event has made to the Belmont community in general and its sports community in particular.

“Our Hall of Fame Committee recognizes that this event has enjoyed tremendous growth and success because of the many sports enthusiasts and abundance of outstanding athletes from Belmont who have exhibited their skills that are favorable with any area of the country,” said Shoemaker. “The Hall of Fame Committee always has a difficult task each year selecting inductees because of our great fortune of a large pool of candidates. With the continued support of sports fans from Belmont this banquet will hopefully continue for many years in the future.”

checkpoint, but the suit disputes that.

Last year, Belmont police modified their pursuit policy, but in a presentation before the city council where the changes were announced, Chief Charlie Franklin said the changes were not directly a result of the pursuit and crash.

Norman was later convicted of two counts of second degree murder and sentenced to at least 25 years in prison.

far. We went out again Wednesday night to spread the problem areas on the main roads that refroze.”

Mount Holly had worse conditions on its state roads, but Streets and Solid Waste Director Mike Santmire said his guys did what they could.

“Seems the state didn’t treat us as well as Belmont,” he said. “We still have icy state roads in our city limits.

We put out several tons of sand, starting Tuesday night and Wednesday. As a guess I would say 10 tons of sand.”

Gaston County school kids got some time off thanks to the snow.

Classes in elementary schools were closed on Tuesday at 12:30 and middle and high schools sent students home at 1pm. Icy roads on Wednesday and Thursday mornings meant classes were canceled for those days as well.

Continuing frigid conditions meant slow thawing for the snow. Wednesday’s high temps didn’t make it out of the mid-30s. Wednesday night and early Thursday morning saw the thermometer plunge back down into the teens.

This first snow of the year will probably not be the last. AAA Carolinas issued a bulletin last week with a plethora of safe driving tips, the main one being slow down when roads are icy.

Other tips included- Increase your following distance 8-10 seconds. On dry pavement at 20 mph it takes about 20 feet to stop. On ice-covered roads, it takes 145 feet to stop - seven times further. Keep your speed appropriate to the needed stopping distance.

Brake gradually with steady pressure on the brake. If you begin to skid, steer in the direction you want to go. If you have anti-lock brakes, keep the brake firmly engaged; if you don't have anti-lock brakes, gently depress the brake pedal. Don't slam on your brakes; it can cause you to lose control.

If the brakes lock, release the brake and gently brake again while keeping your heel on the floor.

Be careful crossing bridges and overpasses as these freeze before the

Photo by Alan Hodge

Zarrin Fulwood was hurrying to get home late last Tuesday afternoon as the snow really started coming down.

Photo by Bill Ward

Stanley got its share of snow and ice last week. This photo was taken around 8am on Wednesday morning near downtown. regular roadway.

North and South Carolina included, reSlow down sooner and gradually quire your headlights to be on when when approaching an intersection to your windshield wipers are in use. allow yourself more time to react.

Never use wiper blades to clear ice Watch out for polished or packed snow or frost as this damages the blades. Use at stoplights or intersections, which can a scraper or can of de-icer. Make sure make halting more treacherous. Heavy- all windows are clear for best visibility. footed drivers also spin their tires when Keep an emergency kit in your car. starting, which worsens the problem. If Make sure it includes a mobile phone, possible, stop or start safely on a car charger, blankets, flashlight with slightly different line. Fresh snow or extra batteries, a first aid kit, drinking less polished areas almost always offer water, a small shovel, a sack of sand or better traction. cat litter for traction, windshield Keep your lights on. Using your scraper, battery booster cables, emerheadlights improves visibility, both gency reflectors and non-perishable yours and other drivers. Many states, snacks.

Anytime, anywhere.

“YOU KNOW, WE REALLY Newspapers reach 74% of Internet users in an average week across multiple platforms and devices.

OUTDID OURSELVES THIS YEAR.”

More than 161 million adults read newspapers in print, online and on mobile devices in the past week.

Multiple platforms are used by 54% of consumers who access newspaper content in an average week.

Newspaper media consumers act on newspaper digital ads – 66% took action on an ad in the past month.

Newspaper circulars are used by 73% of newspaper media users in an average month.

Source: Frank N. Magid Associates Inc., 2012 Newspaper Multiplatform Usage Study; Scarborough Research

It’s get away et a little lit tle carried carried away It’s easy easy to to g over holidays.

We’ll get et e’ll help help you you g over tthe he h olidays. W your back on ac k o n ttrack. rac k . your budget bu d get b our de bts, pay pay off of f b Consolidate your debts, bills, ills, Consolidate y nd cover u nexpected e x p e n s es a cover unexpected expenses and lower y our ttotal otal p ayments. lower your payments.

Truliant.org T ruliant.org | 8 800.822.0382 00.822.0382 Reach desirable audiences on trusted media brands.

Senior Bingo Feb. 10 The Gaston County Senior Center, 1303 Dallas Cherryville Hwy. Dallas, will be hosting its free monthly senior (55 and over) bingo night on Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. There will be lots of bingo fun and prizes.

For more information please contact Gaston County Parks & Recreation Senior Center at (704) 922-2170 or visit the County’s website at www.gastongov.com.

Newspaper Media: In Print. Online. Anytime. www.newspapermedia.com

nsured by by the the National National C redit U nion Truliant Credit Union Truliant iiss ffederally ederally iinsured nE qual H ousing L ender. M ust Administration an Equal Housing Lender.

Must Administration and and iiss a o jjoin. oin. A oans are are subject subject meet eligibility Allll lloans m eet e ligibility rrequirements equirements tto to credit approval. to cr edit a pproval.

Page 8

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

The Banner News | banner-news.com

Classified Ads

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

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) MOBILE HOME for RENT. 2 BR & 2 BA. Very nice & clean. KM area. $435/mth + Deposit. References required. Also 2 BR House for rent. Call 704739-5319 for more information. (tfn) Land for Sale

First Freebie

CREDIT NO PROBLEM, OWNER WILL FINANCE

Second Freebie

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) Pets FREE DOG – Can’t afford. Must give away to a loving home.

A medium size dog that is very sweet and good with kids. Mixed breed. If you can give this dog a loving home call after 5 pm. 704974-7447 or 704974-4428. Ask for April.

Misc for Sale FORD PICKUP 1966 for SALE-V8 390 ½ ton, straight drive, dual exhaust.

Good body.

Needs work. $2,300.00.

Call Barry at 704825-7779. (2/05 & 12/14) OAK FIREWOOD, $50.00.

S-10 Load. Seasoned.

Deliver- $60.00.

Cherryville Area.

Call: 704-4353970. (tfn) Yard Sale - Deadline Noon Friday

Mtn. St., benefiting Taylor Haraszkiewicz.

Something for everyone. RAIN or SHINE. (2/05 & 12/14) Help Wanted PART-TIME MAINTENANCE MAN ON CALL NEEDED for apartments in Belmont. Must have experience in painting, electrical, plumbing, gas heating and carpentry. Pays $10.00 per hour.

Call: 704-5759445. (tfn)

BENEFIT INSIDE YARD SALE – Saturday, Feb. 15th.

8 am -1 pm, Kings Mountain Women’s Club House on 108 E.

Legals

Third Freebie

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

F

EEL LIKE A FISH OUT OF WATER?

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The Banner News Where To Shop!

Where To Dine!

Community Happenings!

Professional Services! ....And more!

CALL 704-739-7496 To Subscribe Today!

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 8th day of January as Executor of the Estate of Elizabeth Wilson Maier, 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 Harold James Maier, Jr., Executor on or before the 8th day of April, 2014, or this no-

tice 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 15th day of January, 2014.

Harold James Maier, Jr., Executor Estate of: Elizabeth Wilson Maier 1274 Brookforest Dr. Atlanta, Ga. 30324 BN10557 (1/15, 22, 29 & 2/05/14)

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 22th day of January as Co-Executrixes of the Estate of John Louis Smith, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Lea Jane Smith Orr, Co-Executrix and Dana Michelle Smith Moody, Co-Executrix on or before the 29th day of April, 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 29th day of January, 2014.

Lea Jane Smith Orr, Co - Executrix Estate of: John Louis Smith 617 Hickory Grove Rd Gastonia, NC 28056 and Dana Michelle Smith Moody, Co-Executrix Estate of: John Louis Smith 332 Holly Circle Mt. Holly, NC 28120 BN10559 (1/29 & 2/05,12, & 19/14)

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS Having qualified on the 11th day of April as Executrix of the Estate of John E. Mageras; aka: John Evangelos Mageras, 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 Lauri M. Mageras, Executrix on or before the 5th day of May,

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 5th day of February, 2014.

Lauri M. Mageras, Executrix Estate of John E. Mageras; aka: John Evangelos Mageras, 5406 Stoney Ridge Court Belmont, North Carolina 28012 BN10560 (2/05,12,19 & 26/14)

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Art exhibit to open at Gaston County Museum Opening February 11 and running through April 5 at the Gaston County Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bull pen is Primitive Pottery & Painting: By Stephanie Ray & Lori Lytle.

Stephanie Ray, from Richburg, SC, works with watercolors, mixed media, as well as pottery and jewelry. Lori Lytle, a mostly abstract painter, studied art at Western Michigan University. Her technique can be likened to the peeling of an onion, except when Lytle plumbs her layered surfaces by lifting off what she has previously built up color upon color, the resulting momentum transforms her canvas into an atmospheric adventure land where viewers are free to unveil their own personal visions.

Both artists have enjoyed creating since they were children and have developed that love over the years into the pieces in this exhibition.

Gaston County Museum of Art & History, 131 West Main Street, is located near Gastonia on the square in historic Dallas.

The museum is housed in an 1852 brick

More snow fun!

Greek Revival-style hotel that has been adapted for visitors and travelers of today.

Museum hours: Tuesday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 10am5pm, and Saturday 10am-3pm. Contact: Jason Luker, Programs Coordinator 704.922.7681 x105 or jason.luker@gastongov.com.

Learn about photography, birding, more at DSBG Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden this February will offer special continuing education classes that feature photography, birds and special areas of the Garden.

Digital SLR III â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Composition, instructed by Dave Kelly, DEK Photography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Feb. 9, 1-3:30 p.m. Use the various elements of composition to direct the eye of the viewer to elements of the image you want them to see.

This class requires a digital SLR camera and is $40 for Garden members and $46 for non-members.

Birding Walk, instructed

by Garden volunteers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Feb. 11, 9-10 a.m. Stroll through

the gardens, Meadowood Walk and Persimmon Trail to scout for seasonal birds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; observe nesting patterns and establish a basis for bird counts. Some previous walks have documented as many as 24 different species of bird! These walks are free with Garden admission.

Horticultural Highlight Walk, led by Garden staff â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Feb. 15, begins at 1 p.m.

Join professional horticulture staff as they take you on a custom tour of the Garden.

Guides will highlight whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in bloom, seasonally relevant gardening tips and behind-the-scenes details.

Specific topics and

guides will be announced the week before on the Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page. These walks are free with Garden admission.

Digital SLR IV â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Macro and Close-up Photography, instructed by Dave Kelly, DEK Photography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; noon. One of our most advanced offerings, macro and close-up photography presents the photographer with some unique challenges. These challenges and their solutions will be covered.

This class requires a digital SLR camera and is $40 for Garden members and $46 for non-members.

Photos by Alan Hodge

Noah Fronebeger, Mya Stuman, and Sam Morrison were hitting the slopes at Stowe Park after last week's snow. Their sleds added a lot of color to the scene.

Zachary Welsh and daughter McKenley tried out one of Stowe Park's steepest slopes early last Wednesday monring.

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s My Card A handy reference for Belmont & Mount Holly area residents

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

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School Happenings ...

South Point High School Exciting News

basis of outstanding accomplishments and potential in scholarship, leadership, service and character. Matthew was also named as a finalist for NC Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centennial Scholarship.

Congratulations to Mr. Tim Hamilton, South Point High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2013 - 2014 Teacher of the Year!

Congratulations to Kati Scruggs! Kati was named as a semifinalist for UNC Chapel Hillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Morehead-Cain Scholarship. This four-year merit scholarship promises full tuition, all fees, housing, meals, books, supplies, and study abroad experiences. Kati was also named as a semifinalist for the Park Scholarship at NC State University and the Coca-Cola Scholarship.

Congratulations to Madeline Killen! Madeline was named as a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

She is among 16,000 top high school seniors (and the only one from Gaston County Schools) across the country selected to advance in the 59th annual scholarship competition worth $35 million.

Congratulations to Matthew Agee! Matthew was named as a semifinalist for NC State Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park Scholarship.

This scholarship is a four-year scholarship awarded on the

Tyler Bray was selected to be annual Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas All-star Football Player with Assistant coach Phil Tate.

Photos by Roberto Aragon SPHS

Congratulations to Quinn Barnette! Quinn was named as a finalist for UNC Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Levine Scholars Program. This merit scholarship includes full tuition, room and board, a grant to implement a service project, and study abroad experiences.

& Bill Ward

At left: Ms.Brooks is on the phone with the Gaston county superintendent.

At right Ms.Steiner is grading the exams from last week.

South Point Clubs and Committees Club ........................................................................Staff Advisors Ambition Club (formerly known as Bible Club) ............Adriana Macchiavello Anime Club....................................................................Katie Hawkins Art Club ........................................................................Elizabeth Kiser Beta Club (9 and 10) ...................................................Rachel Hord Connections .................................................................Leigh Nance DECA ........................................................................Rhonda Van Pelt Drama Club...................................................................Elisabeth Downing Environmental Club.......................................................Sallie Faulkner FTA ........................................................................Glenda Bartlett Fellowship of Christian Athletes....................................Scott Lee French Club & French Honor Society ..........................Terrona Ross GSA ........................................................................Katie Hawkins Hi-Q ........................................................................Katie Hawkins & Kay Ziemer HOSA ........................................................................Gloria Caldwell Interact ........................................................................Mary Ellen Lewis International Club ........................................................Adriana Macchiavello Literary Society ...........................................................Bobbie Cavnar Junior Heart Board ......................................................Gloria Caldwell Model United Nations ..................................................Melinda Pierce Moot Court ..................................................................Melinda Pierce National Honor Society (11 and 12) ...........................Katherine Miller & Leigh Nance National Vocational Honor Society ..............................Kelly Bridges Photography Club .......................................................Elizabeth Kiser Project Unify ................................................................Anissa Mobley Rachel's Challenge ......................................................Elisabeth Downing & Megan Reen Spanish Club ................................................................Adriana Macchiavello Student Council ...........................................................David Grimes & Leslie Kalmbach

Other Events at South Point Event .......................................................................Staff Advisors BBQ Coordinator ......................................................Rhonda Van Pelt Broadcasting Course ...........................................Elaine Gentry Good News Communication .........................................Kelly Bridges Graduation ...................................................................Leigh Nance & Rhonda Van Pelt Homecoming ...............................................................Melissa Glover & Committee Miss South Point .........................................................Alyson Hall & Committee Mr. South Point ............................................................David Grimes & Leslie Kalmbach Prom ........................................................................Amanda Parker Teacher Cadet .............................................................Glenda Bartlett Yearbook .....................................................................Tieka Helton

Sports & Coaches

Upcoming events: 2/7 .......................Military Ball

WINTER Varsity Boys Basketball Kody Kubbs JV Boys Basketball Jason Tant Varsity Girls Basketball Scott Tudor JV Girls Basketball Jannie Sadler Swimming (Boys & Girls) Caitlin McGraw Wrestling Carl Miller

2/17 ....................Make Up Day 2/22 ....................Miss SP Pageant 3/4 .......................ACT (11th grade) 3/7 .......................Mr. South Point 3/10 ....................Winter Sports Awards 3/13 ....................Early Release Report cards/parent conferences 3/14 ....................Make Up Day 4/3 .......................Early Dismissal 4/9-13 .................Chorus Trip 4/18 - 25 ............Spring Break

SPRING Varsity Baseball Jason Lineberger JV Baseball Todd Davis Boys Golf Scott Tudor

4/30 - 5/4 ...........NJ ROTC Trip 5/5-15 .................AP Exams 5/8 .......................Report Cards 5/9 .......................Prom 5/16 ....................Senior Picnic

Varsity Girls Soccer Blake Powell, Kelsey Andrews

5/22 ....................Chorus Concert

JV Girls Soccer Steve Turnipseed

5/27 ....................Spring Sports Awards

5/26 ....................No School - Memorial Day Holiday

5/29 ....................Academic Awards Softball Chip Wilson Track & Field Bill Hannon, Adam Hodge Boys Tennis Amanda Herms

6/4-10 .................Spring Exams/EOCs 6/8 .......................Baccalaureate 6/10 ....................Last day of school 6/13 ....................Mandatory graduation practice 6/14 ....................Graduation (9 am)

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

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â&#x2013; SCHOOLS Commissioners' School of Excellence applications

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Springfield Elementary School in Stanley has awarded December Students of the Month. The Character Trait was Kindness. Top photo, Kindergarten; center photo, 1st grade; and bottom photo, 2nd grade.

The James S. Forrester Commissionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School of Excellence (CSE) is accepting applications for the summer enrichment program. The application submission window opened January 27, each high school determines its application deadline.

CSE is a unique, two-week summer residential learning experience for rising tenth graders in Gaston County. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program will be held June 15-27 at Belmont Abbey College. The goal of CSE is to provide students an opportunity to focus on leadership and thus prepare them to assume immediate roles as high school leaders and future roles as Gaston County leaders.

CSE participants have an opportunity to attend seminars, take field trips, work with community leaders, hear renowned guest speakers, participate in a variety of performances, and enjoy many hands-on experiences. Lessons and activities concentrate on problem solving, teamwork and communication skills and the importance of community service.

Sixty students are chosen from across the county based on academic performance, extracurricular activities (school and community), leadership potential, self-motivation and written expression.

There is no cost to students who are selected to attend CSE. The James S. Forrester Commissionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School of Excellence is funded by the Gaston County Commissioners and operated by Gaston County Schools in cooperation with local colleges. It is named for the late Senator James S. Forrester, who was an adamant supporter of the school and helped to ensure its early success.

Current ninth grade students who are interested in the program should see their high school guidance counselor for an application or e-mail Lori Collins at lwcollins@gaston.k12.nc.us.

GDS IceCube Project

Gaston Day students perform in Honors Band Five Gaston Day students were selected to participate in the North Carolina Bandmaster Association's Central District Honors Band. The students were selected from more than two thousand who auditioned. These young musicians each played a prepared solo, several scales and sight-read unfamiliar music nearly perfectly at their auditions to be invited to participate in the Honors Band.

The Honors Band clinic was held Jan. 24 and 25 at Lenoir-Rhyne University and the Salt Block Arts Center in Hickory. The culmination of the clinic was a wonderful concert held at the P. E. Monroe Auditorium at the University with over 1,450 in attendance.

The students and the instruments they play are Zachary Mandell - trumpet, Sophia Raspanti - flute, Grace Dent - French horn, (all second year participants), Maxwell Wright -

Thirty students from Gaston Day School recently joined 20 students from Ellinogermaniki Agogi high school in Athens, Greece, and interacted live via the web with researchers at the CMS experiment at CERN and researchers from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica.

The virtual visit was the first test of a pilot scheme to connect the two laboratories, supported by the Open Discovery Space project.

"We are very excited to team up with the Outreach Group of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole," says Angelos Alexopoulos of the CERN Education Group.

"The project offers high school students an integrated view of pioneering efforts to understand the cosmos."

For Alexopoulos, the team-up reflects the collaborative spirit that is essential for any Big Science project. "Whether you are IceCube - looking for super-energetic neutrinos in Antarctic ice - or CERN, colliding protons at unprecedented energies in the Large Hadron Collider, working in such collaborative teams is good for science," he says.

Jim Madsen, associate director for Education and Outreach at the Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center, says that his team was very excited to get a look at the CMS detector and hear about the similarities between work being done at CERN and at IceCube.

"The students who connected in were really impressed with the virtual tour, and we have many ideas for expanding access to reach more schools from both sides of the Atlantic," he says Sofoklis Sotiriou at Ellinogermaniki Agogiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R&D department will be studying the outcomes of the 90-minute tour in detail. "Our aim is to propose a framework for the organization of similar events for more schools from all over the world," he says.

SP High library fundraiser The South Point High School library book online fundraiser raised $1,100.00 for the purchase of new library books. Ten percent of the total was matched by The Follett Book Company who sponsored the event. In addition to donations sent by the community, the South Point Student Council gave $500. The Library Media Coordinator is Mrs. Elaine Gentry.

Students honored for grades The following students were named to the President's List at Lenior-Rhyne for the Fall 2013 term: Alexis Bolin, of Belmont and Caitlin Rubow, of Dallas.

Joshua Justice of Belmont was named to the Lenoir Rhyne Dean's List for the Fall 2013 term. baritone saxophone and Maurice McCrorey tenor trombone. Maurice auditioned so well he earned

the opportunity to audition for the upcoming All-State Honors Band.

Ashley McGee of Belmont was named to the Pratt Institute President's List in the Fall 2013 semester.

Aaron D. Thrams of Stanley was named a Dean's Scholar at Piedmont College after completing the recent fall semester with a perfect 4.0 grade-point average.

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© 2014 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 30, No. 8

Fill in the blanks in the story below by using the word list.

The North Star

here once was a railroad that had no tracks, no trains, no whistles, no schedule.

It ran through dark woods and swamps thick with snakes. Its “stations” were secret rooms and musty piles of potatoes.

Runaway slaves followed the North Star to freedom. If the stars were hidden by clouds, they would feel the trunks of the trees, looking for moss, which always grows on the north side of a tree.

The Underground Railroad, as it was called, was a series of secret paths and stations that helped runaway slaves find their way to freedom. The secret railroad ran from the southern United States to Canada.

Star Gazing Can you find the star that is different?

At one time, in some states, it was legal to own people. They could be bought and sold like cows and horses. This was called slavery.

“Follow the Drinking Gourd” is a song that provided in code the route for an ____________ from Alabama and Mississippi.

A portion of the song and its coded message follow:

“Conductor” was one of the most dangerous jobs on the Underground Railroad. Conductors were runaway slaves who led other slaves to freedom. One of the most famous was Harriet Tubman.

When the sun comes back And the first quail calls, Follow the drinking gourd.

For the old man is waiting To carry you to freedom If you follow the drinking gourd.

Help Harriet find a path through the forest.

Standards Link: History: Students understand the importance of individual action and character and how heroes from long ago made a difference.

Standards Link: Eye-hand coordination; problem solving.

Thomas Garrett’s home was a station on the Underground Railroad. He gave food and shelter to more than 2,500 runaway slaves. In 1848, he was arrested for helping runaway slaves. All of his property was taken away from him and sold. He had to pay a huge fine and was left penniless. Yet, he surprised the sheriff with what he said.

Look through the newspaper and circle things that can be owned in green.

Circle things that cannot be owned in red.

Use the code to find out what Thomas said.

Standards Link: History: Students know historical accounts through the stories of people and their actions.

Runaway slaves used musty piles of potatoes as “stations” to hide in. What can you find hidden in this pile of potatoes?

A ball, a sock, a boat and a fish.

Standards Link: Visual Discrimination: Students compare and sort common objects.

How We Overcome Find a newspaper story about someone overcoming a great obstacle such as a health challenge, an accident, or an unfair law. Read the article and list the facts: who, what, when, where, why and how. Using the facts, write a one-paragraph summary of the article.

Standards Link: Writing Applications: Write summaries using newspaper format.

Brought to you by:

Frederick Douglass named his ____________________ after a symbol of _______________ to slaves, as well as a physical guide to those slaves escaping the South and traveling north.

They were taught to locate this star by using the stars of the Big ____________ .

Slaves often passed ________ instructions from plantation to plantation by __________ .

Many people thought slavery was wrong.

They wanted to help slaves find a way to live free. This is how the Underground Railroad started. The kindnesses and concerns of thousands of strangers kept this freedom train “running.”

Harriet Tubman led more than 300 slaves to freedom. She once said, “On my Underground Railroad I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger.”

Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and a newspaper publisher. He escaped slavery, traveled north to freedom and then began speaking out against slavery.

FREEDOM RAILROAD WHISTLES SECRET SLAVERY GREEN FACTS MOSS STATIONS TRACK SWAMPS TRAIN LOST SOLD FOOD

“When the sun comes back” means the time in __________ when the altitude of the sun increases each day. Quail are a migratory bird that winter in the South, and the drinking gourd is the Big Dipper. Most freedom seekers had to cross the _______ and powerful Ohio River, a difficult crossing most of the year. The song urged freedom seekers to begin their journey in winter, which would enable them to reach the Ohio when it was still frozen and easier to cross.

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

Find the words in the puzzle, then in this week’s Kid Scoop stories and activities.

S B R S W A M P S T N L M A H L A C R R O K O H I S T A T A I O D S S L C E R I T Y E M T K R D O N

This week’s word:

A N E T L C M O S S

The noun slavery means the owning of people by other people.

T G R E E N A O A I S H F S S F E F B D Y R E V A L S O L D Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognizing identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

SLAVERY

Frederick Douglass called for an end to slavery.

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

My Hero Tell about someone who is your hero (or heroine).

Why is this person special to you?