Cherryville Eagle 11-23-22

CHS’ Montgomery chosen as the 2022 Christmas Parade Grand Marshal

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Add another accolade to Lee Roy Montgomery’s list of honors and accomplishments – he has been chosen to be the 2022 Cherryville Christmas Parade’s Grand Marshal. The parade is Dec. 10, at 10:30 a.m.

In an Oct. 26, 2022 Eagle article, Lee Roy was reported as being, “…a living, breathing sports icon and not just for his beloved Ironmen,” but now he can add one more thing to his growing list of things he is well known for.

CHS Athletic Director Scott Harrill asked Lee Roy See MARSHAL, Page 9

Seasonal events; new lights to make Main Street a Christmas destination

Adding even more excitement to Cherryville’s already popular Christmastime events, Cherryville’s new Main Street will soon glow with thousands of new Christmas lights beckoning visitors to make it a seasonal destination.

“We’re adding 20 lighted displays up and down Main Street,” said David Day, Cherryville’s downtown director.

“The biggest displays,” Day added, “will be a 10foot ornament and a 10-foot wreath in the center of town. They’ll be iconic landmarks for taking Christmas photos.”

Lighted trees, and the street’s 41 new light poles, glowing with refurbished, lighted snowflakes and wreaths, will form a festive corridor all the way from Depot Street to Mulberry Street.

Capping the light displays will be the red, white, and green Who-bilation tree in the Mini Park.

In addition to the beautiful lights, multiple seasonal events are slated to draw visitors to enjoy the joyful Main Street environs.

On Saturday, Nov. 26, Main Street merchants will offer special sales in recognition of Small Business Saturday and, at the same time, a holiday craft market will run from 10-3 p.m. in the Mini Park. Featured will be food trucks and crafters from across the area.

That evening, Saturday,

Nov. 26, Santa is expected to be on hand to help light the Who-bilation tree at 6 p.m. “Besides Santa, we’ll have singing by Baily Marie and free hot chocolate to warm hearts,” said Day.

The next seasonal event for finding deals on Main

Street is the ‘Sip and Shop’ event on Wednesday, Dec. 8 from 5-8 p.m. – with many merchants offering holiday goodies in their stores.

Highlighting the traditional events on Main Street again will be the annual See LIGHTS, Page 2

Council approves short list of items at last week’s regular session

by MICHAEL E. POWELL

At last Monday night’s Nov. 14, 2022 City Council regular session Council approved the previous meetings’ agendas and minutes, then moved on to take care of a short list of business, followed by a closed session, which City Manager Brian Dalton said after Council returned from their closed session, that no action was taken.

Mayor H.L. Beam, III noted in his comments that the City has an Interim Public Works Director in the

Wise News Network makes debut on You Tube channel

by MICHAEL E. POWELL michael@cfmedia.info

There’s a new news network in town and it’s one owned and operated by someone who has had a love for Cherryville all his life. So much so, he has several businesses already going here. Now he is adding his newest: a news network.

Rusty Wise, owner of Wise Electric and Mr. Sparky, recently founded See WISE, Page 2

Holiday Market; Small Business Saturday

Downtown Cherryville will host their second Main Street Holiday Market and Small Business Weekend on Saturday, Nov. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We’ll have vendors selling all sorts of handcrafted gifts for Christmas,” said David Day, Cherryville’s Downtown Director.

“And, our Main Street merchants are participating and offering specials,” explained Day. “So, we’re also billing the event as Small Business Weekend” which is a national event.

To add to the festivities, Day said there will be baked goods, coffee, tea, and cider for sale. Local food trucks will participate as well.

“We think we’ll have a great atmosphere for our guests,” said Day. “As always, we’ll have our Main

Street decked out in Christmas decorations.”

The vendors will be set up at the Cherryville mini park and in front of the Main Street/Chamber office on Main Street.

Adding to the atmosphere, the nearby and newly renovated Heritage Park will be open and decorated for Christmas.

Featuring restored historic buildings from the turn of the last century, the park

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person of Mr. Chris J. King, and he briefly introduced Mr. King to those gathered at the meeting.

Mayor Beam noted the City has been busy with leaf pickup adding that even

City attorney Palmer Huffstetler and City Manager Brian Dalton listen to comments by one of the council members at last Monday night’s regular session.

The City Council members at last Monday night’s, Nov. 14 regular session. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Says he’s just “… a regular guy who works every day!”

Striking a pose – CHS’ ball boy and sports team manager, Lee Roy Montgomery, prior to a recent Ironmen home game at Rudisill Stadium.

An example of Cherryville’s new, 10-foot-high ornament that will grace the downtown area. (photos provided)

Also, a huge wreath, similar to this one, will also be a new part of the City’s Christmas decorations this year.

Wise News Network editor Jermaine Gash and WNN founder/owner, Rusty Wise in their new studio.

Event to feature Arts and Crafts vendors and local merchants

United Way of Gaston Co. to collect holiday gifts for Senior citizens

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

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

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

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showcases Cherryville’s rich heritage.

Vendors wishing to participate should contact Mary Beth Tackett or David Day at the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce, by calling (704) 435- 3451. More information will also be on the cityofcherryville.com and Cherryville Main Street Facebook page.

COUNCIL

From Page 1 though one of their leaf trucks has been in the repair shop the City’s crews have been busy taking care of the problem.

“Also, Sealand is now finished with our downtown,” said Mayor Beam, who noted the City is “in the process of rescheduling” the ribbon cutting for Downtown Main Street for “Spring 2023.”

Mayor Beam also attended the Veterans Day ceremony, held at the Post 100 American Legion Building. He thanked the City’s veterans for their service and sacrifice.

City Manager Dalton noted the City is still taking soil samples at West Gate Park and noted it has been decided an “all-purpose track” will be put at Cherryville Elementary School.

Lastly, Mayor Beam said he is planning on helping at the Nov. 19 Thanksgiving Meal, which will start at 11 a.m., and run until 2 p.m.

During the “Citizens to Be Heard” section of the meeting, Cherryville native Al Putnam, of 209 N. Jacob Street, approached the podium to be recognized. Mr. Putnam is on the Board of the Cherryville Historical Association.

He attempted to present a check to the City of Cherryville from the Cherryville Historical Association.

Under advisement of City Attorney Palmer Huffstetler, the City was advised to not accept the check and to not take physical possession of it as there are still some issues between the CHA and the City yet to be resolved.

Mr. Putnam noted the museum and association “…has not had strong leadership” adding that by January 2023, “…things will be a whole lot better.”

Mr. Putnam noted the museum board currently has 10 members, adding that number could trimmed down to perhaps three to five.

Council member Jon Abernethy asked Mr. Putnam about the Council’s proposal and if it had been discussed at the museum’s

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

Senior citizens who would like to request a gift, please contact the United Way office at (704) 864-4554.

The application can also be found on the United Way of Gaston County’s website, unitedwaygaston.org.

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

Ways to support the 2022 United Way Senior Christmas Wish program include, but ar-

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Who-ville on Friday, Dec, 2, from 6-10 p.m. The event will again feature the Grinch and Santa, hay rides, games, dancers, music, food trucks, and craft vendors.

The traditional Christmas Parade is set for Saturday, Dec. 10, at 10:30 a.m. For more information, citizens can contact David Day at (704) 435-3451.

en’t limited to, the following:

● Collect items (comforters, blankets, sheets, towels, books, etc.) for senior citizens at your workplace from Nov. 1 until Nov. 30;

● Volunteer at the United Way of Gaston County office to sort and package gifts;

● Make a donation of any amount. Make funds payable to the United Way of Gaston County, indicate Senior Christmas Wish program, mail to 200 East Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, NC, 28052.

For additional information contact Andrea Stephens, President, United Way of Gaston County, or email her at astephens@unitedwaygaston.org. To call her, do so at (704) 8644554, ext. 106.

Traditional New Year’s Shooter’s Meeting dates and information

The Traditional New Year’s Shooters group will have their meetings at Hugh’s Pond Volunteer Fire Department on the following dates: Dec. 6, 13, 20, and 27. All meetings are at 7 p.m. Dues will be collected and powder and caps sold at that time. If questions, please visit their Facebook page at Cherryville Traditional New Year’s Shooters.

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

11-7: Mariah Cinquette Gillespie, 30, 232 Putnam St., Shelby; felony WSOJ (Gaston County). Vehicle left at scene and secured. No bond amt./type listed.

11-9: Kenny Lee Glance, 38, 1402 Jenkins Rd., Gastonia; misdemeanor WSOJ (Gaston County). $1,000 secured bond.

11-10: Jamie Leanne Bartolomeo, 44, 6823 Blake Brook Dr., Concord; one count criminal summons for school attendance violation. Summons/cited.

11-11: George Ray Darty, 57, 979 Baxter Rd., Cherryville, was arrested at 425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, by GCSO deputies on one count of a warrant from another agency.

11-11: Brian Shane Shook, 54, 3425 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville, was arrested at this same address by GCPD officers on one count of simple assault.

11-12: Juan Jose Marcial-Ixtepan, 45, 509 N. Mulberry St., Cherryville; one count misdemeanor DWI and reckoless driving/ wanton disregard, and one count of having no OL and unsealed wine/liquor in passenger area. $2,500 secured bond.

11-13: Arshauna L. Huntley, 18, 342 Pine Ave., Cherryville; one count misdemeanor simple assault. $5,000 unsecured bond.

11-15: Donald Eugene Hawkins, 38, 106 Black Ave., Cherryville, was arrested at 2305 N. Chester St., Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on one count

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his Wise News Network, which is currently housed in his building on Hwy. 150 West.

of a warrant from another agency.

INCIDENTS

11-7: CPD officer reports WSOJ on listed suspect who had an OFA. Closed/cleared by arrest.

11-9: CPD officer reports a WSOJ on listed suspect who had an outstanding OFA. Closed/cleared by arrest.

11-9: Charlotte man reports unattended death of elderly resident at her Cherryville residence. Closed/ cleared by other means.

11-10: A Cherryville couple reported B&E of a motor vehicle by an unnamed suspect who broke into their vehicle and stole $406 worth of listed items. Case is active and under further investigation.

11-10: CPD officer reports a call for service (school attendance issue) with listed subject who had an outstanding criminal summons. Closed/cleared by arrest.

11-11: GCPD officers report a new investigation into a simple assault incident at 3425 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville.

11-11: GCSO deputies report a new investigation into a non-forced entry residential burglary at 269 Hephzibah Church Rd., Crouse.

11-12: GCPD officers report closing/clearing by arrest a drug/narcotic violation 104 Allen Ln., Cherryville.

11-12: Spindale woman reports larceny ($1,287/ Samsung Galaxy S20 cell phone) by listed suspect who stole her cell phone. Case is active and under further in-

vestigation.

11-12: CPD officer reports DWI, no OL, reckless driving/wanton endangerment, and unsealed wine/ liquor in passenger area by listed suspect who was driving while impaired. Closed/ cleared by arrest.

11-13: CPD officer reports simple assault by listed suspect who assaulted a family member inflicting minor injuries. Closed/cleared by other means.

WRECKS

11-9: A vehicle driven by Henry Franklin Hoyle, 72, 2830 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Bessemer City, failed to stop for the red light at Church St., and Rudisill Ave., and struck a vehicle driven by Kathy Miller Brown, 55, 968 Sparrow Springs Rd., Kings Mountain. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Hoyle vehicle: $3,000; to the Brown vehicle: $3,500. Mr. Hoyle was cited for entering an intersection while the stop light was emitting a steady red light. The Hoyle vehicle was towed to his address by KT Towing; the Brown vehicle was towed to McDaniel’s Towing by McDaniel’s Towing.

11-11: A vehicle driven by Natasha Nichole Samuel, 37, 163 Rosedale St., Kings Mountain, was traveling west on Church St., and a vehicle driven by Ben Terry Bame, 74, 419 N. Mountain St., Cherryville, was backing from a parking space when the collision occurred. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Samuel vehicle: $1,000; to the Bame vehicle: $0.

board meeting. Mr. Putnam replied it had been discussed, adding, “(There has) been some resistance to having board members appointed by the City.”

Council moved on the topic of the speed limit situation on N. Jacob Street and the possibility of lowering said limit from 35 mph to 25 mph. A motion to lower it was made by Councilman Malcolm Parker; seconded by Councilwoman Jill Parker-Puett, and all approved so the limit was lowered to 25 mph.

Cherryville police chief Cam Jenks spoke noting his officers ran radar on the street and said it was not posted. Chief Jenks said the prime worry is children “darting” out between cars and into oncoming traffic. Mrs. Parker-Puett said lowering the speed limit is less expensive than putting in speed bumps. Chief Jenks also mentioned to Council the street doesn’t normally have what he termed “…a heavy amount of traffic,” but still would benefit from lowering the speed limit there.

Council also heard from Planning and Zoning Director Alex Blackburn about two P&Z issues regarding a special use permit for 230 Dick Beam Rd., and a public hearing on rezoning on property located at the corner of S. Pink St., and S.

City Manager Dalton also went over the City’s financial summary for the month of September.

In other business Mrs. Parker-Puett said she had received a couple of calls from concerned citizens regarding the leaf pickup process and pick-up dates. These were answered by City Manager Dalton who said that with one truck down, it has been difficult getting all the leaves picked up.

“They are currently on a set schedule and getting all that scheduled work done with only one truck is difficult, but once the second truck work is completed things will get back to normal,” he noted.

Mr. Dalton also talked about what is being done regarding city-owned property (a lot on Depot and Main) which has had some issues recently and about the status of the City’s potholes.

Mrs. Parker-Puett praised Downtown Director David Day on his video on Main Street’s progress, after which the city went into closed session. They would adjourn after that meeting.

Rusty said his reason – or one of them, anyway – for starting a news network is, “I’ve had people trying to get me to do a podcast or something for a few years. I’ve always liked making videos and working on the media side of things, so I came up with the Wise News Network and the logo. Podcasts tend to be focused on one general interest area but news can encompass many areas. I think people are yearning for information but don’t really know or trust avenues to get information, especially on the local level. Small communities are left without a voice these days. We are also losing our small media outlets to larger corporations. People are turning to town talks and other blogs trying to get information which many times is not factual. There’s really not an organized TV media outlet on the internet for small communities and now we are going to bring the Wise News Network to them.”

Wise noted their news segments will be “…a mix of news, documentaries, biographies etc. in varying time lengths.”

He continued, “We are not restricted by traditional news timelines. Hopefully, Cherryville area viewers will learn something new or get answers to some questions they may have.”

News Editor Jermaine Gash said, “The fact that Wise News Network is social media-based and focuses primarily on the major social media platforms, separates it from other news networks. Utilizing social media also allows us to report on the news consumers want.”

Rusty noted they have already received many story leads, adding, “We will fact check and ‘vet’ our sources. Our segments will be factual and not rumor-based. There’s enough fake information on the internet as it is.”

Jermaine agreed, adding, “As an editor, it is very im-

portant

Asked if he feels the blog will have any sort of an impact one way or the other on his other businesses, he replied, “Our segments will not be politically slanted one way or the other. We are here to be a voice for all people and they will build the narrative on what they want to see. Too many news and internet sites are slanted one way or the other. I have no specific agenda other than help local communities such as Cherryville.”

Jermaine’s interest in journalism began, as he noted, in high school, his background, he said, “…primarily is within the arts and production realm. I studied fine arts in college and worked for a number of art galleries in southern California. I also have a number of years working for major entertainment studios, such as Warner Bros., and CBS. I worked within both the art and production departments doing everything from casting to working on set.”

Rusty noted starting a business like this is tough, but said, “(While) we just started and are already looking for

more help, we would also love to help future journalists, such as providing internships, etc. What we are doing is way more complicated than a podcast. When you have mics, cameras, and lighting to deal with; in-studio and on-location shooting can get complicated. We are starting in the Cherryville area but will be expanding further. Our tag line reads, ‘The World’s Local News Source’ for a reason. All news is local, it’s just how it’s distributed that makes it seem different.”

As far as how their news coverage has been, Rusty noted, “So far everyone has been extremely positive about what we are doing. As we get into the investigative side of things that may change. As people see our segments, we ask that they like, share and subscribe to all our internet media channels such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, etc. Wise News Network is available on all these media platforms with the main platform being YouTube.”

Rusty and Jermaine had a final word regarding the news, “Since America was founded, the media has been instrumental in the check and balances of power. Local media is key in keeping all politicians, government, businesses, and even other countries transparent on their actions. Sometimes things are exposed that normally would be kept hidden from the public. Democracy is dependent on a free press society.”

Mountain St., Cherryville. The dates set for both issues is Dec. 12, 2022, at the next regular City Council session.

Cherryville resident and Cherryville Historical Association Board Member Al Putnam speaks at the Nov. 14, 2022 City Council regular session.

(photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Wise News Network editor Jermaine Gash at work editing news content prior to getting it onto their social media platforms. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

that the information I put out is rooted in facts. We make sure to vet our sources before releasing any, and all, information.”

The Wise News Network logo.

GASTON COUNTY’S

FORECAST

What’s new and coming up at Cherryville Branch Library!

by TRACI POLLITT Branch Manager Cherryville Branch Library

LEGO Club – Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

Family Storytime –Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING –Thursday, Nov. 24 through Sunday, Nov. 27

Room to Wrap – Saturdays, Dec. 3, 10 & 17, from 10:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Youth Book Club –Monday, Dec. 12 at 4:30 p.m.

CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS – Friday, December 23 through Monday, Dec. 26

Noon Year’s Eve Party – Saturday, Dec. 31 at 11:30 a.m.

CLOSED FOR NEW YEAR’S – Monday, Jan. 2

‘Tis the season to try something new!

We are opening up our programming space the first three Saturdays of December, giving our patrons “Room to Wrap.” We hope our patrons will love the ability to come to the library to wrap holiday gifts, taking advantage of the tables we’ll have set up along with some basic supplies such as tape and scissors. We will have a few rolls of gift paper available, but we recommend bringing your own. If you would like to donate rolls of paper, we will gladly accept them, along with bags of bows, nametags, ribbon, and other decorating supplies. The room will be open for three (3) hours, shutting

be a family-friendly event beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31, with a countdown to 12 noon. There will be crafts, games, and other fun activities for all ages.

For more information about these events and all other library-related questions, give us a call at

Street. Our public service hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Don’t forget about the GCPL Online Event Calendar at www.gastonlibrary.org, and be sure to check out our Facebook page!

December auditions for “The Importance of Being Earnest”

There are upcoming auditions for a production at the Cherryville Little Theatre starting Dec. 4 and ending Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.

The auditions are for the Oscar Wilde-written play, “The Importance of Being Earnest.”

The play is directed by Erika Barnes and, as has been noted, the auditions will be at Cherryville Little Theatre Sunday, Dec. 4 and

Monday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Performances are scheduled for Feb. 3, 4, 10, and 11 at 7 p.m., and Feb. 5 and 12, at 3p.m.

Sarah Fox Sandoval, of the Cherryville Little Theatre, said, “Oscar Wilde’s famous comedy of manners, set in mid-century America, is the classic story of two men – Jack and Algernon –who use aliases to live more adventurous lives and win

the hearts of Gwendolyn and Cecily, who both want only to be with someone named Earnest. A hilarious tale of miscommunication, mistaken identities and love, this modern adaptation of this Victorian play is one you’ll want to be a part of.” Find their Facebook events for character breakdowns, scripts and more information.

Mostly Cloudy ShowersMostly Sunny Sunny

Rows and rows of some pretty cool kids’ books waiting for you, our dear readers!

Nothing like a pair of “googly eyes” on a book cover to really pique your interest…

Books are like prisms. They take the bland and mundane and make light shine through!

GINGERBREAD

COOKIES

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1 cup molasses

1/4 cup water

5 cups all-purpose flour

2-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger

1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon salt

FROSTING:

3-3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar

1/4 cup water

1-1/2 teaspoons light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Cookies: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and water. Combine the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle. On a lightly floured surface, roll out to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with 2-1/2-in. cookie cutters dipped in flour. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until edges are firm. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Frosting: In a small bowl, combine frosting ingredients; beat until smooth. Transfer to a plastic bag. Cut a small hole in a corner of the bag; pipe frosting onto cookies.

Yields: about 5 dozen. Cookies also delicious without frosting.

WHITE CHOCOLATE OREO TRUFFLES

40 Oreos

1 cup cream cheese, softened 2 cups white chocolate, melted

• Using a food processor, pulse the Oreos into fine crumbs. Remove 1/4 cup of the crumbs and set aside.

• Mix the cream cheese into the remaining crumbs. The mixture will be sticky. Roll the mixture into 1 inch balls, and place them onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze the balls for 30 minutes.

• Dip each ball in the melted chocolate, place back on the baking tray, and sprinkle with the reserved Oreo crumbs. Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Keep in the refrigerator and serve chilled, so the chocolate won’t melt.

WHITE CHOCOLATE RITZ CRACKER COOKIES

40 Ritz crackers

Creamy peanut butter

8 ounces white almond bark

•Make sandwiches with Ritz Crackand peanut butter for filling.

•Melt the almond bark according to package directions.

Dip each cookie in the melted chocolate, covering it entirely.

Place on wax paper.Put in the refrigerator to cool and set. Store In air-tight container for up to one week.

BEST SUGAR COOKIES

Makes 3 dozen cookies

Soft cut out sugar cookie recipe that keeps its shape and dough does not need to be chilled before baking- perfect edges every time!

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup granulated white sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1 egg 2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 cups all purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350° F.

•In the bowl of your mixer cream butter and sugar until smooth, at least 3 minutes Beat in extracts and egg.

•In a separate bowl: combine baking powder and salt with flour and add a little at a time to the wet ingredients. The dough will be very stiff. If it becomes too stiff for your mixer turn out the dough onto a countertop surface. Wet your hands and finish off kneading the dough by hand.

•DO NOT CHILL THE DOUGH. Divide into workable batches, roll out onto a floured surface and cut. You want these cookies to be on the thicker side (closer to 1/4 inch rather than 1/8).

•Bake for 6 minutes for soft cookies or 7-8 minutes for crisper cookies. Let cool on the cookie sheet until firm enough to transfer to a cooling rack.

NOTES: You can use salted butter (just leave out the 1/2 teaspoon salt).

If you must chill the dough just leave it on the counter top for 10 minutes before rolling or work the dough with your hands for a few minutes. Lemon flavoring may be substituted for the almond flavoring. Truffles can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

NO BAKE COOKIES

2 cups white sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup margarine

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 pinch salt

1/2 cup chunky peanut butter

3 cups quick cooking oats

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, cocoa, milk and margarine. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, salt, peanut butter and oats.

• Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto waxed paper. Allow cookies to cool for at least 1 hour. Store in an airtight container.

EASY ITALIAN STYLE BAKED CHICKEN

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (halved)

3 large eggs

1 cup Parmesan Cheese

1 cup fine dry Italian bread crumbs

¼ cup Italian dressing

¼ cup melted butter

•Preheat the oven to 350 F. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs.

• Combine cheese and breadcrumbs in another bowl. Dip the chicken breasts into the beaten eggs. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.

Place on greased baking sheet. Drizzle the chicken breasts with salad dressing and then drizzle with the melted butter.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

ROAST

CHICKEN WITH ROSEMARY

3 lb. chicken salt and pepper, to taste

1 small onion, quartered ¼ cup chopped fresh Rosemary

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Stuff with the onion and rosemary.

• Place chicken in a 9x13 inch baking dish or roasting dish. Roast in the preheated oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Cooking time will vary a bit depending on the size of the chicken.

YEAST ROLLS

2 cups hot water

1/2 cup margarine

1/3 cup white sugar

2 teaspoons salt 1/2 cup cold water

2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast

5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 eggs

• Melt margarine in hot water. Add sugar and salt and stir. Add cold water and yeast. Stir to dissolve yeast. Add 3 cups flour and mix. Add eggs and 2 1/2 - 3 cups more flour. Mix, cover and let rise until dough doubles in size.

• Punch down and let rise

30 more minutes or until doubles. Make walnut size balls of dough. Place about 2 inches apart in well-buttered 9 x 13 inch pan.

• Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30-45 minutes. Brush top of rolls with margarine while hot.

SOFT GINGER COOKIES

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup margarine, softened

1 cup white sugar

1 egg 1 tablespoon water

1/4 cup molasses

2 tablespoons white sugar

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Sift together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the water and molasses. Gradually stir the sifted ingredients into the molasses mixture.

• Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and roll them in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Place the cookies 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet, and flatten slightly. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

GINGERBREAD PANCAKES

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 tsp. ginger

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 egg

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup molasses

1 1/2 cups water

• Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, and cinnamon in a bowl; set aside. Beat the

egg in a separate mixing bowl with the vanilla and molasses until smooth. Whisk in the water until completely incorporated. Stir the flour mixture into the molasses mixture until just combined -- a few lumps are okay.

• Heat a lightly oiled griddle over medium-high heat. Drop batter by large spoonfuls onto the griddle, and cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry. Flip, and cook until browned on the other side. Repeat with remaining batter.

BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP

1/2 cup butter

1 onion, chopped

1 (16 oz.) pkg. frozen chopped broccoli

4 (14.5 oz.) cans chicken broth

1 (1 lb.) Velveeta Cheese, cubed 2 cups milk

1 tablespoon garlic powder

2/3 cup cornstarch

1 cup water

• In a stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Cook onion in butter until softened. Stir in broccoli, and cover with chicken broth. Simmer until broccoli is tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

• Reduce heat, and stir in cheese cubes until melted. Mix in milk and garlic powder.

• In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into water until dissolved. Stir into soup; cook, stirring frequently, until thick.

BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

1 lb. ground pork sausage

1 tsp. mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk

6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes

8 oz. mild cheddar cheese, shredded

• Crumble sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly brown; drain.

• In a medium bowl, mix together mustard powder, salt, eggs and milk. Add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese, and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• Cover, and bake 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, and reduce temperature to 325 degrees. Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until set.

Where

The American dream is the pursuit of making heavenly rest available here and now.

The world has been through quite a lot in the last 20 years! Rest would be nice. Rest would be GREAT! If rest is what America pursues, then the question we must ask is: what is rest? After all, you could read this article and go on with your day. You could continue striving for your parent’s approval, a raise from your boss, your spouse’s admiration, a new president, your community’s recognition, a clean

bill of health, or an inheritance from a distant uncle – but nothing in this world will bring you the rest your soul desires. Nothing!

When you think of resting in paradise, what do you imagine? Studies show that 10/10 of humans die. So, what will eternity be like for you? An eternal resting place that does not have the Lord Jesus is not paradise at all. In other words, if your favorite pet, car, person, sport, or hobby, is nowhere to be found inside the gates of heaven, would you still want heaven?

Of the 10 Commandments listed in the Old Testament, nine are directly repeated in the New Testa-

Thankful for Laughter

(4th Part of the “THANKFUL” series)

A man was taking it easy, lying on the grass and looking up at the clouds. He was identifying shapes when he decided to talk to God.

“God”, he said, “how long is a million years?”

God answered, “In my frame of reference, it’s about a minute.”

The man asked, “God, how much is a million dollars?”

God answered, “To Me, it’s a penny.”

The man then asked, “God, can I have a penny?” God said, “In a minute.”

Life brings us pain and sorrow sometimes, but the days when we are laughing and enjoying ourselves are precious moments. We should savor, embrace, and be thankful for them. Also, there is power and healing in ebullience. God has given us a powerful tool to help us navigate through the daily challenges with resilience and optimism - it’s Laughter. Often I watch comedy shows, read jokes, or even just force myself to laugh until it becomes real in order to pull myself out of a despondent mood. I will also ask God to fill me with joy, because I don’t want a spirit of heaviness draining my strength. Proverbs 17:22 (NLT) says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.”

Scriptures to meditate on about laughter: Genesis 21:6: “And Sarah declared, ‘God has brought me laughter. All who hear about this will laugh with me.”

Job 8:21: “He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”

Psalm 2:4: “But the one who rules in heaven laughs.”

Psalm 30:11: “You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy.”

Psalm 126:2: “We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, ‘What amazing things the Lord has done for them.’”

Ecclesiastes 3:4: “A time to cry and a time to laugh.”

Ecclesiastes 8:15: “So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun.”

Luke 6:21: “God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now for in due time you will laugh.”

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

“Father, I trust in you and you always hear my prayers. Therefore my heart celebrates, and I will always give thanks to your holy name and I will sing a song of joy and praise. You are the God of joy; you created laughter. You want me to laugh and be full of unspeakable joy. I praise your holy name for all your wonderful deeds toward me that have put a smile on my face and brought me great joy! I am thankful that I don’t have to be depressed. I don’t have to ever stay down in the dumps. Your word says that weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning. In Jesus’ name I pray - Amen.”

Danyale Patterson would love to hear from you! Contact her at www.danyale.com to share a testimony, send a prayer request, or book her to speak.

is the 4th Commandment?

ment. Do you know which one is “missing”?

Thousands of years before the iPhone, sliced bread, America, the Greeks, or the Persians –the Hebrew people started keeping several holy days and holy feasts. Some holidays were commanded by God, and some came about through heroic acts of Israeli patriotism. Now, when we read the New Testament, we discover that these feasts and holy days, including the Sabbath, were great shadows of The Great King Jesus who was prophesied to come and save. Glory Hallelujah – Jesus came, died, rose and lives!

You see, if we are not careful, we tend to be busy. So busy that we accomplish nothing. Sometimes

we confuse busy for worship or purpose. Like a tire stuck in the mud, we tend to believe running 100 mph is progress, but running on a treadmill is exactly where the devil wants you, your church, and your family to be. That is: running busy without a purpose. So, once we get tired, and we always get tired, satan pounces like a lion. Dear brother and sister, don’t confuse busy for purpose.

Placing our faith in God is no longer about having a plan B to the American dream, instead, it is the very fruit of knowing what God has promised. If faith were a flower, we would say that faith blossoms in a garden of peace because the promises of God are backed by God himself. God’s promises lead to

stronger faith, faith grows in a place of rest, and rest makes us free to worship.

So, which of the 10 Commandments is missing in the New Testament? The 4th Commandment: Thou shall remember the sabbath day and keep it holy. It is never repeated as the other nine are repeated, but it is renewed and refocused. The 4th Commandment is found in the New Testament not as a day of the week, but as a Person! Do you know the Person? Jesus told His followers they could find rest in Him because His yoke was easy. The crowd that day was very similar to you and me. They were being told life was the sum of their behavior. The idea was: if we obey a certain set of rules, we can earn peace with God and from that

Cherryville Area Places of Worship

peace, we can earn good in life. But Jesus claimed that peace with God can only be received through faith alone!

Jesus claimed that there was nothing we could do in our behavior to earn good standing with God. Jesus claimed that God wanted humans to rest in His grace! You could continue striving for your parent’s approval, a raise from your boss, your spouse’s admiration, a new president, your community’s recognition, a clean bill of health, or an inheritance from a distant uncle – but nothing in this world will bring you the rest your soul desires. Nothing!

So, what a mighty God! A God Who demands you cease and rest in Him!

Victory Life Assembly of God

Anthony Grove Baptist Church 100 Anthony Grove Road Crouse, NC 704-435-6001

Bess Chapel United Methodist Church 6073 Flay Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-7969

Bethlehem United Methodist Church 6753 NC 182 Highway Cherryville, NC 704-435-1608

Blessed Hope Baptist Church 3357 Fallston-Waco Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-8530

Body of Christ Fellowship Center 405 S. Cherokee Street Cherryville, NC www.bodyofchrist7.com

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Cherryville, NC Pastor Clifton Morgan Cherryville Church of God 810 East Main Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-2275

Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church 318 W. Ballard Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6934

Emmanuel Baptist Church 1155 Marys Grove Church Rd Cherryville, NC 704-435-5764

Fairview Baptist Church 415 South Mountain Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-4299

First Baptist Church 301 East 1st Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-3796

First Church of the Nazarene 301 North Elm Street Cherryville, NC 828-838-2428

First Presbyterian Church 107 West Academy Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6064

First United Methodist Church 601 N. Pink St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-6732

First Wesleyan Church 800 North Pink Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6069

Free Saints Chapel Church 813 Self Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-0949

Gospel Way Baptist Church 3904 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Cherryville, NC 866-356-3219

Legacy Church 805 Self Street Cherryville, NC 704-457-9615

Living Word Ministries 306 East Academy Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-3213

Marys Grove United Methodist Church 1223 Marys Grove Church Rd Cherryville, NC 704-435-5544

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church 235 A.W. Black Street Waco, NC 704-435-8842

Mt. Zion Baptist Church 112 Mt. Zion Church Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-9636

North Brook Baptist Church 7421 Flay Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-4471

Oak Grove AME Zion Church 542 Flint Hill Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3687

Oak Grove Baptist Church 219 Tot Dellinger Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3053

Revival Tabernacle 1104 Delview Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-4073

Rudisill Chapel AME Zion Church 417 South Mountain Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-5621

Second Baptist Church 201 Houser Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-9657

Shady Grove Baptist Church 3240 Tryon Courthouse Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-9605

St. John’s Lutheran Church 310 West Church Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-9264

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 1203 St. Mark’s Church Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-5941

Victory Life Assembly of God 1655 Shelby Highway Cherryville, NC 704-435-5539

Waco Baptist Church 262 N. Main Street Waco, NC 704-435-9311

Washington Missionary Baptist Church 1920 Stony Point Road Waco, NC 704-435-3138

Word of Faith Ministry 306 Doc Wehunt Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-5560

Zion Hill Baptist Church 3460 Zion Hill Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3355

Stamey-Cherryville

Funeral

Cremation

North Dixie Street, Cherryville, NC 704-445-8144

1655 Shelby Highway, Cherryville, NC

DANYALE PATTERSON

NC Conference of United Methodists may lose 1/3 of churches to new denomination

by DAVID LARSON Carolina Journal

A split in the United Methodist Church, North Carolina’s second largest religious denomination, has seemed increasingly likely the last few years, and now at least 260 churches in the state’s 779-church eastern conference, known as the N.C. Conference, have voted to disaffiliate or plan to next year.

This is according to Rev. Jerry Lewis, the North Carolina organizer for the Global Methodist Church (GMC), the new denomination formed by traditional Methodists who oppose the direction of the wider UMC on issues of sexuality and biblical authority. Lewis, who is church administrator for Trinity United Methodist in Jacksonville, said that 180 churches have voted to leave in 2022.

Churches in the N.C. Conference had until Oct. 10 to set a date for a vote on whether or not to disaffiliate in 2022, which the GMC is calling the “first wave.” Those who miss this deadline will be given another opportunity in 2023, the “second wave.” Lewis said another 80 have indicated to his team that they intend to disaffiliate in the second wave.

Altogether, these 260 churches would make up 1/3 of the N.C. Conference’s 779 churches, and there is still plenty of opportunity left for churches to decide before the end of 2023, when the disaffiliation agreement negotiated by progressive and traditional factions of the UMC expires.

In terms of how many churches in the end are going to disaffiliate, Lewis said based on what they’re seeing so far, “We believe the percentage is going to be much higher than folks assumed. We’re delighted at the sheer amount in what we called the ‘first wave.’ To have 180 in

this first phase is kind of mind boggling in regards to everything they had to accomplish to reach this state in such a short amount of time. The disaffiliation process wasn’t even known to us until May of this year.”

Of the 180 churches that have already voted in the “first wave,” more than 150 tell Lewis that they plan on joining the new Global Methodist denomination. The remaining are determining whether to join GMC, look for another denomination, or remain independent.

Derek Leek, communications director for the N.C. Conference, told CJ he does not have official numbers yet that can confirm whether those Lewis and the GMC state are accurate. But with the Oct. 10 deadline passed, they plan to gather those in the coming weeks so people can see them before a conference-wide vote in November.

“Coming up in Nov. 19, we have a special-called session of our annual con-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF WILLARD HAROLD HICKS

Having qualified as Co-Executrices of the Estate of Willard Harold Hicks, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 106 North Cherry Street, Cherryville, North Carolina, on or before the 2nd day of February, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 2nd day of November, 2022.

Taressa Dianne McDonald Co-Executrix Deborah Ann Collins Co-Executrix Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street

Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (11/02, 09, 16 & 23/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF DENNIS WILLIAM FOX

Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Dennis William Fox, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 106 North Cherry Street, Cherryville, North Carolina, on or before the 2nd day of February, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of November, 2022.

Michael D. Fox Co-Executor Daniel M. Fox Co-Executor

Counsel for the Estate:

PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR.

ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (11/02, 09, 16 & 23/2022)

nal that while issues of human sexuality have been the most debated and public leading up to the split, they are only a symptom of a much deeper issue for those aligned with his movement.

“The aspect of human sexuality is only one part of the discussion. For the majority of us, the key element is not tied to that specific issue,” Lewis said. “The key issue is directly tied to the authority of Holy Scripture. Because once you accept and believe in the authority and centrality of the Word of God, it helps address many of the significant aspects of the culture wars we experience.”

equation, since the system already accommodated for disaffiliation. But they are working on different insurance-related questions that are a bit more complicated.

Because a majority of overseas churches in Africa and Asia sided with the Wesleyan Covenant’s more conservative views on sexuality, they are hoping these churches will also join the new GMC denomination. This vision is what led them to choose the name Global Methodists.

But Leek offers a word of caution to those wanting to jump ship and join the GMC.

conference.

“We will not be voting on any additional disaffiliations until our annual conference in June of 2023,” Yeager told CJ. Without any 2022 deadlines, it’s more difficult to gauge how many western churches may decide to disaffiliate before December of 2023.

“Between 2020 and 2022, there have been 41 churches that have disaffiliated in that time,” Yeager said, adding that they “don’t have an estimate on how many will disaffiliate in the future” as the process wraps up at the end of next year.

ference, which usually just meets once a year in June, but because there are churches that wish to disaffiliate, the annual conference actually has to ratify that vote,” Leek said. “Once a church has done all their compliance information based on their agreement, turned in their archives, pay their two years of apportionment, their unfunded pension liability, the whole list of things, then they are eligible to actually disaffiliate by the 31st (of December).”

Leek also said that they’ve heard a rumor that people think their churches have to disaffiliate by the end of 2022, and that may explain a rush from some churches to immediately disaffiliate. But Leek said churches can use this process all the way until the end of 2023.

There could be a hang-up for a church, though, if voting members of the annual conference don’t believe that the church is disaffiliating for the specific reasons laid out in the 2019 agreement, Leek added. This agreement in paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline only allows for these disaffiliations if the church is doing so for issues of conscience surrounding sexuality and church doctrine.

Lewis told Carolina Jour-

Lewis was chosen to be the North Carolina organizer for the new denomination by the Wesleyan Covenant Association, which is the conservative faction within the United Methodist Church that is starting up the GMC. The Transitional Conference Affiliation Team (TCAT) that Lewis leads has decided not to maintain the two conferences that the UMC has but to proceed as one statewide conference.

“It’s made of 16 members — eight from the Western Conference and eight from the North Carolina Conference,” Lewis said of the TCAT team. “But after a week gathering together we felt that the future was better grasped in a sense of unity among us. So, we are working together to hopefully stand up a North Carolina Provisional Conference of the Global Methodist Church come Jan. 1, 2023… And we’re very thrilled about that.”

When asked if there is a simple process for disaffiliating churches to keep their properties and pensions, Lewis said, “I don’t think anybody would want me to comment that it is simple, because the process is not anywhere close to being simple. But bottom line, the answer is yes: if the churches go through the process as outlined by their conference leadership,” they will be able to keep the buildings and pensions.

He said the pensions are really not a big part of the

“Although they’ve formed a denomination, they’ve not yet had a meeting; so all their stuff is transitional,” Leek told CJ. “So really, there’s no way for anyone to join the GMC right now. They have to actually meet and get all that formal stuff in place. So yes, people may have indicated that they want to (join the GMC), but that process is yet to be determined for how they do that.”

The N.C. Conference set up a webpage with detailed information on how churches can go through the process of disaffiliating, but they are not shy about stating that they would prefer these churches to remain United Methodists.

Leek said overall that the bishop, the conference staff, and a majority of the conference as a whole “want these churches to be United Methodist” and not to disaffiliate. He said it’s not about any financial impact it may have to the conference but because of the deep grief and harm caused by these separations.

“We’re looking toward the future, but we have this sadness and frustration because we want these people to be part of our community and to go forward together and to be actually united,” Leek said.

Aimee Yeager, communications director for the state’s other UMC conference, the Western N.C. Conference, said they are doing the same process as laid out in paragraph 2553, but unlike the N.C. Conference, they are not having an additional special session of their annual

Lewis said the leaders in the eastern conference “have been more gracious than what our brothers and sisters in the western conference are dealing with.” While he did not specify what has been less gracious in the western part of the state, Yeager said she believes Lewis was likely referencing the conference’s decision not to have a special called session for 2022.

If a similar portion of western N.C. UMC churches choose to disaffiliate as did eastern N.C. churches, then about 320 churches of the 959 western churches may leave. In a single statewide GMC conference, these 320 combined with the 260 of the eastern churches would create a 580-church conference, a similar number of churches to those that would remain in either of the state’s UMC conferences.

Yeager said only three churches have voted to disaffiliate so far this year, though, so it’s also possible that a much smaller proportion of western N.C. churches will choose to go through the process.

Both UMC and GMC spokespeople told CJ that this process of separation has been painful for all involved.

“We all grieve, and are sad, to be involved in the process that you and I are discussing today,” Lewis said.

“There are very hard feelings that we all have, and whatever the vote, there are people that are going to be pleased and displeased.”

Edenton Street United Methodist Church in Raleigh, N.C. (photo by Creative Commons)

GASTON COLLEGE RECORD BOOK: Baseball’s first and only draft pick was a local strikeout legend – Alan Lindsay

by RICHARD WALKER Gaston College Sports Information Specialist Walker.Richard@gaston.edu

When Alan Lindsay came to play baseball at Gaston College, he was already a local legend for Cherryville’s Junior and Senior High and American Legion Post 100 baseball teams.

By the time his career ended at Gaston College after the 1971 season, Lindsay set history that remains today as the school's only player to be drafted by a major league franchise.

When he played professionally in 1972, he also became the first Gaston College product to play professional baseball.

The story of how he turned down professional baseball twice before signing a free agent contract shows the uncertainty that existed in the country during the Vietnam War era.

A 6-foot-4, 215-pound left-handed pitcher, Lindsay’s pitching performances in high school, during American Legion baseball and at Gaston College were events if for no other reason than major league scouts frequently attended those contests.

Those scouts wanted to find out how more about Lindsay’s proficiency to strike out so many hitters.

Before coming to Gaston College, Lindsay racked up 725 strikeouts in 428 2-3 innings for Cherryville teams dating back to Junior High. He also had two 21-strikeout games in Legion baseball – once each in the 1968 and 1969 seasons.

After going 11-2 with 169 strikeouts in 80 2-3 innings for Cherryville High in his senior year of 1969, the Chi-

cago White Sox drafted Lindsay in the 24th round of the June major league draft.

Lindsay forsook the pros to sign with Gaston College though he was drafted again by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 9th round of the January 1970 second phase major league draft – or before he’d ever thrown an official pitch for Gaston College.

Back then, the U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War created issues for Lindsay that made his decision complicated.

“Looking back on it now, I should’ve went with the Pirates,” Lindsay said. “I was really stuck with the Vietnam War going on. I knew that I got a one-year deferment if I was playing pro ball but I didn’t know what would happen after that year had ended.

“I didn’t go and didn’t take a chance at the time.”

Instead, Lindsay and former high school rivals Rocky Goforth (Kings Mountain), Searly Lowery (Kings Mountain) and John Colvard (Lincolnton) formed a formidable pitching staff for Gaston College coach Dean Burroughs’ 1970 N.C. Community College Conference championship team.

Lindsay had a 3-2 record with 56 strikeouts in 34 innings highlighted by 2-hitter in a 4-2 win over Sandhills Community College that wrapped up the Warriors’ second of four straight league championships.

The following year in 1971, Lindsay was even better with a 7-2 overall record and 100 strikeouts in 56 innings highlighted by a near no-hitter in a 13-0 victory over Surry Community College and a school-record 19 strikeouts in a 2-hit 7-0 shutout at Lenoir Community

College that completed an unbeaten, 11-0 NCCC season.

The school-record 156 career strikeouts gave Lindsay a staggering 881 strikeouts in 518 2-3 innings in local baseball games covering six springs and summers from 1965 to 1971.

"I always had a good time and we had good teams," Lindsay said of career.

He considered the Gaston College near no-hitter a career highlight; He has thrown 6 2-3 no-hit innings and had two strikes on the batter when a bloop single in shallow right field ended up being the only hit he allowed that day.

“I made a bad pitch is what I would say,” Lindsay said.

Once his Gaston College career ended, Lindsay still longed to give professional baseball a shot.

In the late winter of 1972, he did tryouts for the Minnesota Twins in Orlando, Fla., and the Houston Astros in Cocoa, Fla.

“It was about three days before spring training camp started and my dad and I went down there,” Lindsay said. “We warmed up on the side. I actually had stopped in Orlando first to talk to the Twins. They said they didn’t need anybody at the time but Houston called and told us to go to Cocoa where the Astros trained.

“I went down there and tried out and they said, ‘Go back to where you’re staying and we'll give you a call.’ They called, had a fair contract and I signed it.”

In eight appearances (three starts) for the Astros’ Florida Rookie League team in 1972, Lindsay had a 2-1 record and 4.00 ERA. But the Astros didn’t renew

Basketball Ironmen get in a couple of scrimmages

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Against Lincolnton’s Wolves

Coach Scott Harrill said the men’s basketball team scrimmaged at Lincolnton on Thursday, Nov. 10 with the Ironmen winning against a good Wolves team, he said.

“Seniors Numarius Good and Landon Hahn had a good first outing,” said Coach Harrill. “Junio,

Darrian Floyd led all scorers with 18 points for the Ironmen.”

Harrill also noted Nate Bookout and Steven Brown “…played good on the defensive end of the floor for the Ironmen” while “Hunter Jackson controlled the paint.”

The Ironmen played up-tempo and seemed to be finding a groove early, noted Coach Harrill, who also stated he was “…really happy with the effort and intensity this early in the season.”

Against South Point’s Red Raiders

The boys scrimmaged 3A South Point High School on Tuesday, Nov. 14, said Harrill.

“South Point was much bigger and stronger than the Ironmen. That size differential gave the Ironmen some trouble throughout the night,” he said.

Senior player Carson Kelly was the leading scorer for the Ironmen, who lost in the scrimmage to the Red Raiders.

Coach Harrill noted the

Ironmen’s first game of the regular season will be Monday, Nov. 21, with their first home game slated for Friday, Dec. 2, against the West Lincoln Rebels.

his contract and he returned to Gaston County where he played semipro baseball and began a career as a truck driver.

He now lives in rural Cleveland County with his wife Beke, a longtime

teacher.

Lindsay said he’s happy to hear that Gaston College had restarted athletics that included a baseball team that won a league championship during the 2021-22 school year.

by MIKE POWELL Special to the Eagle

Bessemer City High School will host the 2023 West/Midwest All-Star Basketball Games, which bring together top senior players from Cherryville, Bessemer City and Highland Tech, along with those from more than a dozen other schools.

The event’s executive committee, chaired by Dr. Bud Black of Cherryville, finalized plans Oct. 18 at a meeting in Asheville.

Both boys’ and girls’ games are scheduled for March 18, along with a banquet at an area church. The banquet is at 2 p.m., followed by the girls’ all-star game at 5 p.m. and the boys’ game at 6:30. Both All-Star teams will practice at Bessemer City

prior to their games.

Now in its ninth year, the event is held the weekend following the North Carolina High School Athletics Association state championships.

The Midwest squads will be selected by coaching staffs from Avery, Bessemer City, Cherryville, Draughn, Highland Tech, Mitchell, Rosman, Mountain Heritage and Thomas Jefferson.

Players for the West division will come from Cherokee, Highlands, Hayesville, Murphy, Hiwassee Dam, Nantahala, Andrews, Blue Ridge, Swain and Robbinsville.

Black reported that 55 players participated in the 2022 tournament at Highlands High School.

In addition to firming up the site and date, the commit-

“Baseball’s always been big around here so I’m sure they’ll be able to attract some good players,” Lindsay said. “It’s good to know they have a team again.”

tee set aside a proposal to give $500 scholarships to a limited number of participants rather than $250 awards to a larger number. Scholarship awards will be determined by the revenue generated by the event.

The All-Star games and banquet have provided scholarships to as many as 11 players each year,” Black said. “Also, the parents and players enjoy the games and banquet.

In addition, the youngsters get to play with those they have played against for four years.”

Other officials attending the organizational meeting were Jackson County Superintendent Dana Ayers; athletics directors Scott Harrill of Cherryville, Chris Pittman of Mitchell and Brett Lamb of Highlands, and media contact Mike Powell of Cherryville.

Wed. Jan. 4 East Gaston Away JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Jan. 6 Bessemer City Home JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Tuesday Jan. 10 Highland Tech Away JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Wed. Jan. 11 Pinnacle Away JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Jan. 13 Open

Tuesday Jan. 17 East Gaston Home JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Jan. 20 TJCA Home JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Tuesday Jan. 24 Shelby Away VAR 6:00

Bessemer City Away JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Jan. 27

Tuesday Jan. 31 Burns Home JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Feb. 3 Highland Tech Home JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Friday Feb. 10 Thomas Jefferson Away JV 4:30 VAR 6:00

Alan Lindsey throws a pitch during his Gaston College career. (photo provided)

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PORTABLE ROOM SIZE A/C UNIT Hisence Brand. Cools 250 Sq. Ft. “Like New!” Original Owner. $255 Firm. Call between 10am & 8pm. (828) 863-0596

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD $150.00 takes it all. 3 big oak trees fell during the storm, cut - not split. Come get it. (843) 307-6985 j.benton.406@gmail.com EZ-GO GAS GOLF CART. $550. MPI 2400 Monitor heater with tank & stand, uses kerosene, $700. Burning Barrels $10. Feed Barrels $20. Totes from $60-$100. Call Jeff, Hickory, NC (828) 327-4782

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704482-2243. (704) 538-5788

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CHRISTMAS PUREBRED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. $500 each. Ready to go December 4th. Text 704-6856323 or call 704-702-2235 for more information.

TAKING DEPOSITS. F3 Golden Doodles. Blonde and Black & white. Male and female. 980-925-9048.

GREAT DANE PUPPY FOR SALE. Call for info. 704-3001404, or (980) 404-0068

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. Ready to go. All shots UTD. For more info, contact Ronnie (704) 9742716

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES $800. Golden Doodle puppies $1,000. All 7 weeks old, male & female. All have had first shots. 704-309-4513.

CARS & TRUCKS

2004

2020 LEXUS ES 22,500 miles, $40750, great wheels, still under warranty! Sat radio, leather two tone, V6 FWD, sunroof, all weather mats, 2 keys. tggray@carolina.rr.com

CAMPERS

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

PREPPERS SPECIAL $8995 FIRM. Never be homeless! 828-453-0828.

VACATIONS

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

MOBILITY

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

OLD GAMBLING MACHINE $150. Would make a good man cave piece. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net 1999 DODGE 1500. $800. I have ‘99 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine and new radiator. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

ASSORTMENT OF CHILTON REPAIR MANUALS. I have a large assortment of Chilton Auto Repair Manuals. Some are imports and trucks. Some Motor Manuals all are hard back copies. Best Offer! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net 10FT. X 10FT. X 6FT. chain link dog lot with dog house. $250. 828-919-1477

VISIT ME AT AWESOME FINDS INDOOR FLEA MARKET. 784 W. Hwy 27, Lincolnton, NC 28092

FOR SALE. GREAT DEAL! 2 Grave Sites at Cleveland Memorial Park, $1400.00 for pair. Seller will pay transfer fee. In Section 4, Fountain Area, Lot 115, 828-429-5096

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

NEW ALUMINUM RAMPS. Folds in the middle. Bought new for $400. Asking half price, $200. 704-600-7614.

SEASONED MIXED HARDWOOD. Cut, split and delivered, stacked on truck, $100. $10 fee for stacking off the truck. 828395-0758.

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867

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

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

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

WANT TO BUY

DANNY’S AUTOWERKS. Buying used or junk cars. Competitive prices. Call Danny 828-289-3081 or Jimmy 828-289-1175.

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

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

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

WANT TO BUY CARS, TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 6921006

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

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

FARM & GARDEN

quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

YARD BUDDY. Outdoor work such as trimming bushes, small trees, spraying weeds, gutter cleaning. General property clean-up. No grass cutting or leaves. Serving Shelby & Cleveland County. (980) 2950750

RAINIER 13000 WATT GENERATOR. Electric start, runs on propane or gas. Selling with one full and one 1/2 full 100 lb tank. $1300. 828-748-7985.

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

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828980-0853, 704-476-9383.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CHINESE CRESTED PUPPIES Adorable Chinese Crested pups are available. Born in June this year we have four powder puffs (two tan and buff - one male and one female, and two black and white - both males. There are two puppies who are considered to be “extremely, hairy hairless” or “powder puffs without the subcoat”, both males, one tan and buff and one black and white. Have had two vet checks and shots and are on treatment for tick, heartworms and fleas. Will weigh approximate 7 pounds. Most fun breed to own...a personality that’s a mix of a dog, cat, prancing horse and deer. Got to see them to believe them!

Potty trained to a wee-wee pad or will go outside. Let’s talk if you’re interested! $800.00 each. (828) 775-4089 cyninbuncombe@yahoo.com

MALTIPOO PUPPY Only female left. 2nd shot and wormed. $400. Call: 704-4776762.

GERMAN SHEPHERD FEMALE. Solid black, 18 months old, AKC registered, working bloodline. $450. 828-429-0053, 828-7489238. Check our Facebook at Dysart Wolf & Sheperd Kennel.

AKC REGISTERED SCHNAUZER PUPPIES. Salt & Pepper. Ready by Dec 15th. Call or text, (704) 915-0004

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-7182659.

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

1.97 ACRES, 3000 SQFT BUILDING. 1144 East Stagecoach Trail, Lawndale, NC 28090. INVESTORS: Great investment. More than 100% one day return. 2020 assessed value $220,325. Purchase price $114,000 firm. Call Thomas Bittner. 828453-0828.

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

OUT OF AREA

2 BEDROOM HOME WITH BASEMENT and 10 acres. South Mountains, at 4570 Double Head Road, Connelly Springs, NC (old 18 Hwy). $140,000 firm. 828-308-4267

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

AMERICAN BRITTANY PUPPIES FOR SALE. CHAMPION BLOODLINES 9 WEEKS OLD. READY FOR NEW HOMES. ORANGE AND WHITE, VET CHECKED, WILL BE UP TO DATE ON VACCINATIONS. CALL FOR DETAILS, ASK FOR BEN. MALES $850.00 ONE FEMALE LEFT $1000.00. CHECK RIDGEVIEW BRITTANYS ON FB. 704-472-3652 (704) 472-3652 BRITMAN657@ YAHOO.COM

PITBULL PUPPIES, MALE AND FEMALE. 7 weeks and 10 weeks old. $150 to $350. Call or text 704-974-8055. DOG KENNELS & DOG HOUSES Dog kennels 10x10x6, 10x20x6, Dog Houses 8x12,

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

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY COUNTRY LIVING, POLKVILLE. 2 bedroom farmhouse. 2 acres, central heat/ air. No Smoking or Pets. Not HAP eligible! $575. (704) 4875480

2 BEDROOM DUPLEX, FALLSTON. Quiet area, central heat/air, stove, refrigerator, H/W floors. No smoking or pets. Not HAP eligible. Available Dec 1st. $600 mo. (704) 487-5480

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

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

COMMERCIAL OFFICE BUILDING FOR RENT. across the street from the hospital at 803 N. Washington Street, Shelby. Previously a dentist office and would make a great salon. Call for pricing, 704300-2820

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3

Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 473-4299

Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Classic

Sweet Potato Casserole FILLING

3 cups mashed sweet potatoes 1/2 cup butter (sweet potatoes will melt butter) 1 cup sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1/3 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring Mix all together and pour into a 9x13 baking dish.

TOP CRUST: 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup flour 1/3 cup butter

1cup chopped pecans Stir together well. Pour over filling and bake at 375 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.

Turkey In A Bag

12 pounds whole turkey 5 stalks celery salt and pepper to taste 2 large onions, quartered 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Rinse turkey and remove giblets. Salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the bottom of a turkey size oven bag with flour. Place turkey, celery and onions in the bag. Seal bag and poke several holes in it with a fork Bake 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until internal temperature of the thigh meat reaches 180 degrees F (85 degrees C).

Pecan Pie

Crockpot Macaroni & Cheese

1 package (16 oz.) elbow macaroni 1/2 cup butter, melted 4 cups (16 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese, divided 1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk

1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted 1 cup 2% milk 2 large eggs, beaten

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Place in a 5-qt. slow cooker; add butter. In a large bowl, mix 3 cups cheese, evaporated milk, condensed soup, 2% milk and eggs. Pour over macaroni mixture; stir to combine. Cook, covered, on low 3-1/2 to 4 hours or until a thermometer reads at least 160°. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cook, covered, on low 15-20 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Yield: 10 servings.

Cranberry Sauce

MONTGOMERY

From Page 1 what he thought when he found out about being chosen to be the parade’s GM.

Said Harrill, “Lee Roy said it was a very big surprise to be picked to be the Grand Marshal.”

Lee also added, “I’ve never done anything like this before. (I’ll be) so excited to see everyone that morning. I love Cherryville! I am really excited – and shocked – that they picked me. I’m just a regular guy who works every day.”

Additionally, Lee Roy noted he looking forward to seeing all the great peo-

ple of Cherryville, adding, “I love everyone here in Cherryville. These are my friends. I want to thank all the people who always support me.”

He continued, “This is not about me; it is about everyone who has always been so nice to me and helped work with me. The people at CHS, the people around town, the coaches, the fans, just everybody!”

When asked what Cherryville means to him, Lee said, “It means a whole lot to me. I was raised here, went to school here. People know me. It puts a smile on my face when people say, “Hey Lee Roy!’ It just means everything to me; to see the families I went

to school with have kids come through school.”

Lee Roy was asked what words of advice he could give people in Cherryville. He replied, “I try to treat everyone like they are special. Live a life thanking God every day. God gave me a great life. He blesses me every day. Try to live for Him and treat everyone nice.”

Lee Roy continued, “My wife, Bertha is a great blessing, and my best friend. She has been so supportive of all that I do. She loves the people of Cherryville.”

Lee Roy said he has been married to his wife, Bertha, for 11 years and they had a recent anniversary – Nov. 10.

Lee graduated from CHS in 1982, works at CHS, starting there in 1993 as a custodian.

As for his feelings about being an Ironman and getting to work at his alma mater, he said, “The Ironmen have been good to me. I love all things about Cherryville and the Ironmen. If I could do it all over again I sure would!”

Previously, in last October’s Eagle article, CHS Principal Shawn Hubers said, “Lee Roy is an amazing person! He is such a hard worker and is so dedicated to Cherryville High School. Everyone in our building loves Lee and respects him because of how hard he works

and how he treats everyone he comes in contact with. Lee’s dedication to CHS is unmatched and in my short time at CHS I couldn’t imagine this place without him.”

CHS AD Harrill, who has the greatest respect for the man, said of his friend and fellow worker in sports, “Lee Roy Montgomery is one of the best men I have ever known in my life. He is one of my true friends who will do anything in the world for me or anyone who needs help. He has a heart of gold and makes this world a better place. He is the true Ironman at Cherryville High School. Lee Roy graduated in 1982 and has been helping out

with Cherryville sports for the last 40 years. He sure makes my job as a coach and Athletic Director much better. If you ever need to smile or laugh a little, hang out with Lee Roy. His wife is always supportive of Lee Roy and his role at CHS. Anywhere you go in the state of NC, one of the first questions opposing teams or communities ask is, ‘Where is Lee Roy?!’ He is known state-wide and deserves every accolade he receives!”

Again, look for Lee Roy at the Dec. 10, 2022 Cherryville Christmas Parade, which starts at 10:30 a.m.

CHS’ Lee Roy Montgomery, stands by the CHS sign by the building’s front entrance.

Lee Roy Montgomery, the longest serving ‘ball boy’ in NC sports, on the sidelines at a recent CHS Ironmen football game at Rudisill Stadium, watching where the game ball is and waiting to go out onto the field – when needed – and switch it out. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)