Cherryville Eagle 4-26-23

2023 Cherry Blossom Festival – the 31st – had a “great to be back!” feel

People were just waiting for the much-loved festival to come back “full force”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The 2023 Cherry Blossom Festival – the 31st –was back, and in earnest. as crowds of people who were unable to come out during and after the COVID-19 pandemic’s shutdown of the venerable festival turned out for a little food, camaraderie, and general fun in the sun last weekend.

Event mastermind and

Money is a “tribute” to Decker and her hard-working staff

by MICHAEL E. POWELL

Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Bill Moss, President of Cherryville Shrine Club, recently presented a $500 check to Barbara Decker, Director of Cherryville Area Ministries.

Moss noted Cherryville Area Ministries does so many wonderful things in the Cherryville area and that such “…is a tribute to Mrs. Decker and her hard-working staff.” Moss continued, “The check was for sponsorship of Second Harvest Food truck on May 3.”

Moss said, “It’s a small

See SHRINE, Page 2

32 grams of illegal narcotics were seized; 40 narcotics violations

issued by MICHAEL E. POWELL

Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Police Chief

Brandon Hunsucker, stated in a media release to the Eagle last week, that – as a result of a 10-month long

general mover and shaker, Cherryville Chamber of Commerce’s Mary Beth Tackett, Downtown Director David Day, as well as a host of her fellow Chamber staffers and C-of-C members, i.e. Gary Dellinger, Hannah Garrett and, well… a whole host of others (too numerous to name in this article!) all came out to make sure this year’s iteration of the much-loved (and muchmissed!) festival – the 31st – made up for lost time. And it pretty much did, by all accounts of those who came out on Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22, to see and be seen.

While waiting for the entertainment for Friday’s event to begin, a local Cherryville soul, who asked that

his name not be used, said, “This here (gestures with hand to crowd gathering in the mini-park stage area)? This is what I wanted to see more’n anything! This is always good to see. Everybody coming out to the Cherry Blossom Festival and having a good time!”

That sentiment appeared to be the general theme for those who came back, ate food from the food trucks and vendors, bought the toys and whose kids played on the inflatables, and then stayed to listen to the bands play great beach music and old-time rock and roll.

Friday’s band was Cat5, with some platter-spinning by DJ Johnny B (aka John Barkley), and Saturday’s

See FESTIVAL, Page 10

Local minister pens personal book on his father’s suicide

Book signing is planned for May 7 at First Baptist Church of Shelby

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Shelby minister Dr. Jim Wooten has penned a very personal book he feels will help many people who have been touched in some way or fashion by suicide. He knows about the issue as he has been touched by it; his father was a suicide.

narcotics investigation – the CPD’s narcotics investigators, with the help of patrol officers, have made “… multiple narcotic arrests on numerous suspects.”

Said Chief Hunsucker, “The arrest and charges were obtained through vehicle stops by patrol officers and through undercover controlled buys.”

Chief Hunsucker also noted the many charges include: possession of controlled substance; possession with intent to manufacture sell and deliver (PWIMSD); sale and delivery of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and mari-

juana; along with trafficking and maintaining a dwelling for sale of a controlled substance.

“In total,” continued Chief Hunsucker in the release, “approximately 32 grams of illegal narcotics were seized, and 40 narcotics violations were issued.”

The following are the subjects who have been arrested during this investigation:

• Jeffery Paul Homesley, 51, of 966 Mary’s Grove Rd., Cherryville. Mr. Homesley currently has warrants outstanding and has not been arrested at this

See ARRESTS, Page 2

As per his book information, he is currently serving as the Interim Pastor of First Baptist Church of Shelby, NC, after a ministerial career spanning 44 years. Dr. Wooten said this is his first book, which is described as “…a compelling and heart-wrenching memoir, tinged with a dash of mystery, a touch of ‘whodunit’, and a strong dose of reflection and insight.”

The book’s title is “The Suicide’s Son: A Story of Loss, Struggle and Hope.” Wooten said it wasn’t hard for him to write the book, which is set in 1962, in the small town of Laurens, SC. He noted the small volume gives what he said are “the dramatic events that culminate in the shocking death of a thirty-five-yearold fa-ther.” The story, as it is recounted, is told through

the eyes and memory of Wooten, who we know is writing “…nearly 60 years later.”

The book, he noted, had

been “in his head years and years earlier.” He said he finally found the time to write it all down and when he did, he said it flowed and flowed out of him!

“It’s amazing how it all went so fast,” he added. “It was cathartic!” Wooten also noted that organizing his thoughts in order to write the memoir helped him to heal as well.

But a big part of this whole story can be summed up in the following blurb, “The Suicide’s Son is also the story of the author’s lifelong quest to deal with the impact See BOOK, Page 2

Local author Dr. Jim Wooten at a book signing for Southern authors. Photos provided

Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, asks everyone at the Friday night, April 21,

Dorothy Scism

WACO – Mrs. Dorothy Turner “Dot” Scism, 93, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 21, 2023 at Peak Resources in Cherryville surrounded by her family.

Dot was born on Oct. 20, 1929 in Gaston County, a daughter of the late Clarence Calvin Turner and Alma Jordan Turner. She retired from Dover Textiles. Dot and her husband, Ralph also worked as custodians for the First Presbyterian Church in Cherryville. She was a member of Waco Baptist Church and the Naomi Sunday school class. Dot was a former member of Cherryville Chapter #156 Order of the Eastern Star.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Scism; a son, Donny Scism; a grandson, Robbie Smith; two brothers; and two sisters. Survivors include a daughter, Lynn Smith of Lawndale; two sons, Rusty Scism of Charlotte; Mike Scism and wife, Wanda of Waco; three grandchildren, Brian Scism, Roc-Anthony Smith and Jeff Martin; 10 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren and her half siblings, Rod Turner and Colette Walker.

The family received friends from 11:45 a.m., to 12:45 p.m., on Monday, April 24, 2023 at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., on Monday, April 24, 2023 at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Dr. Bill Lowe officiating.

Burial followed the service at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Shelby.

Memorials may be made to Waco Baptist Church, P.O. Box 297, Waco, NC, 28169, or to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.

A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.

Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mrs. Scism.

Eva Black Pfeifer

CHERRYVILLE – Eva

“Ann” Black Pfeifer, 87, of Cherryville, passed away Monday, April 17, 2023, at Wendover Hospice House. She was born Dec. 21, 1935 in Gaston County to the late William Howard and Elena Haynes Black. Ann was an active member of First Wesleyan Church for 50 years. She working until the age of 75 as an LPN with Carolina Care. Ann loved gardening and reading. She was a world traveler with one of her most memorable trips being to the Holy Land. Ann loved to talk, as she never met a stranger.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her infant grandson, Nathaniel Lopez; son-in-law, John Kenneth Lopez; and brothers, Howard and Allan Black.

Survivors include her children, Leslie Ann Lopez and Gilbert Howard Pfeifer; grandchildren, Nicholas and Maren Lopez, Ivy and Logan Clippard, Scarlet Pfeifer, Sophie Pfeifer, Lacey and Anthony Barfield; great-grandchildren, Poppy Clippard and Josiah Barfield; and siblings, Doug and Rita Black, Marjorie Angel, Betty Sue Scism, and Debbie and Doug Rainwater.

The family received friends Thursday, April 20, 2023 from 3 to 3:45 p.m., at First Wesleyan Church. Funeral services at 4 p.m., with Rev. Mark Poe officiating. Burial followed at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Wesleyan Church, 800 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or Wendover Hospice House, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.

Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mrs. Pfeifer.

CHS Class of 1968 55th reunion May 20

The 55th Year High School Reunion for CHS, Class of 1968 and friends will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 6 to 6:30 p.m. (Social Time), with dinner at 6:30 to 7 p.m., at the American Legion Post, 215 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021. The cost is $25 per per-

SHRINE

From Page 1 way we can give back to the people and the city we love. Everyone in this community has been so supportive of our mission to help the crippled and burned children. We (the Shriners) have 22 hospitals, so every dollar designated as a hospital project, goes to the hospital.”

Moss noted Second Harvest Food Bank is regional warehouse that supplies food and grocery items to charitable agencies that assist people in need.

“The main warehouse is in Charlotte, but they have branches in Hickory, and Salisbury, in North Carolina;

Gary “Kent” Scism

MORGANTON – Gary

“Kent” Scism, 80, of Morganton, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023, at his residence. He was born Oct. 17, 1942 in Lincoln County to the late Forest Ralph and Maude Mae Blanton Scism. Kent enjoyed staying active and did so with tennis, kayaking, biking, hiking, disc golf, and running. He loved the outdoors.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Betty Elliott and Frances Carroll; and his furbaby, Boots.

Survivors include his daughter, Wanda “Wendee” Scism and her mother, Sharon Scism; brother, Ralph Scism Jr. (Sherrill); nieces and nephews, Gary Scism, David Scism, Michelle Herrera, Betsy Jefferies, Bryan Carroll, Lisa Lewis, and Sheila Elliott; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Sunday, April 23, 2023, at 3 p.m., at Carpenter – Porter Funeral & Cremation Services with Rev. Travis Mull and Rev. Bradley Roberts officiating. Burial followed at City Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, from 2:00 to 2:45 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to National Parks Foundation, ASPCA, St. Jude, or Wounded Warriors.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.

Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Scism.

son. Please send money to confirm attendance by May 1, 2023. Make checks payable to: CHS Class of 1968, and mail to: Libby Brackett, 108 S. Rudisill St., Cherryville, NC, 28021. For questions, please call Mr. Glenn Burgess at (704) 435-5278, or Mrs. Libby Brackett at (704) 435-3368.

and Anderson, and Spartanburg, in South Carolina,” he said.

Moss said, “We (the Shriners) try to do this once a year. Anyone who wishes to donate to the club can contact a Shriner or the Shrine club in order to donate. Also, we have a paper sale coming up on May 5 and 6, and we will be out all over town and in the streets at that time taking up money.”

President Moss also noted that 24 counties are served by Second Harvest in total; 14 counties in N.C. and 10 counties in S.C.

“In the year 2021-2022, Second Harvest distributed 75 million pounds of food and household items,” he added.

BOOK

From Page 1 of that defining moment upon his life and to find answers to the questions, both personal and existential, inevitably awakened by such an act committed in a child’s formative years.”

Gaston County

Police K9 Unit assists with large fentanyl; cocaine seizure

Seized narcotics had a street value of approximately $4.1 million dollars

On Tuesday, March 21, 2023, the Gaston County Police Department K9 Unit was contacted to assist a partner agency with an ongoing drug investigation. A Gaston County Police K9 was requested to conduct a sniff search of a vehicle believed to be involved with trafficking large quantities of narcotics into both Gaston and Mecklenburg counties.

During the course of the investigation, the Officer’s canine alerted to the odor of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search resulted in the seizure of more than 26 pounds of cocaine and 53 pounds of fentanyl, which has a street value of approximately $4.1 million dollars.

This is an on-going investigation and no charges have been filed at this time. There is no further information to be released.

■ POLICE

ARRESTS 4-14: Kimberly Dawn Nguyen, 42, 201 S. Dixie St., Cherryville, was arrested at S Broad St./E. Second Ave., Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on one count each of a drug equipment violation; a drug/narcotic violation ; a traffic/registration violation; and a traffic/revoked license; and two counts of all other.

ARRESTS

From Page 1 time. Cherryville Police Department is currently searching for any information leading to the arrest of Homesley.

• Brandy Michelle Patterson, 41, of 608 North Dr., Cherryville. She has been arrested and has received a $ 5,000 secure bond.

• Nathaniel Ray Helms, 23, of 608 North Dr., Cherryville. He has been arrested and has received a $10,000 secure bond.

4-14: Helen A. Blackburn, 39, 204 Proctor St., Lincolnton; one count felony trying to obtain property by false pretense and one count misdemeanor trespassing. $5,000 secured bond.

INCIDENTS

4-14: Cherryville business reports obtaining property by false pretense and trespassing by listed

• Jacob Derwin Black, 64, of 118 Angle St., Cherryville. He has been arrested and received a $25,000 secure bond.

• Dana Marie Burleson-Merrium, 41, of 118 Angle St., Cherryville. She has been arrested and received a $ 150,000 secure bond.

• Ryan Derek Hudson, 47, of 207 Dale Dr., Cherryville. Mr. Hudson has been arrested and has received a $65,000 secure bond.

• Brandon James Clark, 35, of 200 E. Academy St., Apt #9, Cherryville. He has been arrested and has re-

As Dr. Wooten said in an interview with the Shopper, “In the end, it felt there was hope! In the end (of the writing of the book), I felt like it was okay!”

When asked if he believes he has moved beyond the image he brings forth in the pages of the book; that of being the “Suicide’s Son”, he spoke a resounding, “YES!” He has moved beyond it (the image) to the point, he noted, of possibly setting a goal of writing a follow-up book.

Wooten said the volume is available in both hardcover ($22.95) and

suspect who was trespassing. Closed/cleared by arrest.

4-16: CPD officer reports possession of Schedule II controlled substance (Fentanyl) and possession of drug paraphernalia by listed suspect who was in possession of illegal items. Seized: 0.01 gram of Fentanyl and one glass pipe. Case is active and is under further investigation.

ceived a $75,000 secure bond.

• Reginald Eugene Miller, 56, of 209 Marcus Dr., Cherryville. He has been arrested and has received a $40,000 secure bond.

• Amanda Dawn Osborne, 36, of 114 Will Kiser Rd., Crouse. She has been arrested and has received a $6,000 secure bond.

• Michael Shannon McCurry, 51, of 117 Victoria Dr., Cherryville. He has been arrested and has received a $5,000 secure bond. As with all investigations, no further information has been released at this time.

softcover ($15.95) through Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other book outlets. Locally, the book can be purchased at the Cleveland County Arts Council, which is located at 111 South Washington St., in Shelby.

Additionally, Dr. Wooten noted his book will be available at a discount at the “Meet the Author Event” scheduled for Sunday, May 7, 2023 from 3 to 5 p.m., at the First Baptist Church of Shelby, located at 220 North Lafayette Street. You can send a registration by texting: TEXT 704-4181199 (Micki).

Your Cordially Invited to the

Cherryville Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Wooten, a Greenville, SC, resident, essentially takes his reader/ readers on a brief journey that is, at times, very vivid, extremely emotional, often poignant, but certainly thought-provoking and –ultimately – inspirational. There is simply no other way to describe it. You just have to read it!

2023 Annual Meeting

Thursday, May 4th, 2023

6:00 pm

• $ 40 Per Person

Cherryville Golf & Country Club

For More Info: Please Call 704-435-3451

Please RSVP by April 28th to the Chamber at 704-435-3451

In these three photos, the huge haul of illegal narcotics are shown being weighed on the GCPD’s scales. (photos provided)

“The Suicide’s Son” author, the Rev. Dr. Jim Wooten, signing his book for a fan.

Your Cherryville Branch Library is excited about National Library Week

This includes ALL kinds of libraries, not just public ones!

by TRACI POLLITT

Manager Cherryville Branch Library

Coming up at your Cherryville Branch Library!

LEGO Club – Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

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

Youth Book Club – Monday, May 8 at 4:30 p.m.

Craft & Chat – Friday, May 12 at 11 a.m.

Teen Anime Club – Thursday, May 18 at 4:30 p.m.

Chessmates – Monday, May 22 at 4:30 p.m.

CLOSED FOR MEMO-

RIAL DAY – Monday, May 29

We’re in the middle of Na-

tional Library Week! During this last full week of April, libraries across the country are celebrating their special week. This includes all kinds of libraries, not just public ones like your Cherryville Branch Library. We’re sure that libraries have played a role in your life at some point. Most of us visited our school libraries as grade-school students, at the very least during the class’s weekly visit. Many of us did research or studied in the library when we hit the upper grades and/or college.

After that? Our experience has been that the majority of people tend to stop visiting libraries after they complete their education, returning when they have families of their own. Some don’t return until they hit retirement age, finding lots of free time on their hands. Whatever your library story is, the great news is that we all have one!

We’re happy to announce that this year’s theme for National Library Week is “There’s More to the Story”, highlighting that libraries today are about so much more than “just books”. Yes, we DO have books – thousands of them – and while we love to read and see others reading, we’re educating the public every day on all the wonderful services available at their libraries. If you follow our articles here in the Eagle, you know that your local branch now has a Seed Bank, a community coat closet, iPads for young children that are pre-loaded with age-appropriate games and activities, VOX books, events, and more. We provide fax service for the public, scanning of documents, printouts, and computer assistance. We also have a wide array of digital content for patrons: books, music, movies and TV

St. John’s Mobile Food Pantry set for Monday,

Cherryville Area Ministry, who is a partner with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, recently noted upcoming 2023 new dates for their Mobile Food Pantry. St. John’s Lutheran Church, of Cherryville, will be hosting the Mobile Pantry in the Dixie Street Parking Lot on the following dates: May 1, June 5, and July 3 (this date is pending).

Organizers said food supplies distribution starts at 10 a.m. on the listed days and goes on as long as supplies last.

The truck will arrive by 9 a.m. for set up. Churches who will have volunteers coming to assist have been asked that all volunteers please arrive by 9 a.m.

There is a $500 transportation fee that goes to Second Harvest that is paid by the partner agency or the hosting

May 1

organization. As you may notice there has been an increase for the transportation fee. The increase is due to the supply/demand issue that Second Harvest is currently experiencing. They are not receiving as much donated food as they have in the past. So, in order to fill the trailers, they are having to purchase food. This, in return, has increased the cost to host a mobile pantry.

Churches or organizations who would like to host or cohost one of the four mobile pantries please let organizers know. We can split the cost among churches/organizations if needed.

Second Harvest provides 12 pallets of food items to be distributed that day. This will feed around 250 people. The truck should arrive around an hour before distribution so volunteers can set up.

This is a community event and volunteers are from various churches and organizations. Please consider volunteering for this outreach ministry.

For more information, please call Barbara at Cherryville Area Ministry, Barbara McDaniel or Kim Eaker for more details on how you can help by volunteering or to help sponsor the transportation fee. Please let your church members or your organization know about this outreach ministry and that we would love for them to be part of this.

For more information about these dates and how to go about getting food from the MFP, or to volunteer, please call Ms. Barbara McDaniel at (704) 435-9264; Ms. Kim Eaker at (704) 4726901; or Ms. Barbara (CAM) at (704) 435-3816.

National Library Week is April 23 – 29, 2023. This year’s theme for National Library Week is “There’s More to the Story”.

shows, educational databases, and language instruction. All this at your fingertips and free with your library card!

While this week is all about recognizing and celebrating libraries, we want to take a moment and thank our community. The staff here at

the Cherryville Branch Library feel so lucky to work where we do. We have wonderful patrons who make it a joy to come to work each and every day. Thank you from all of us here at the branch!

For all library-related questions, give us a call at

(photo provided)

(704) 769-8190, or visit the branch at 605 E. Main 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. That said…Hooray for libraries!

by CAROLINA JOURNAL STAFF

Within the 2023 N.C. House budget there is policy intended to improve transparency regarding classroom materials in K-12 schools. One directs every local board of education to form a local “community media advisory committee,” tasked with “evaluating challenges from parents, teachers, and members of the public to instructional materials and supplemental materials because they are unfit.”

In recent years, school boards across the state have had a fragmented approach to addressing concerns about material in K-12 classrooms or libraries. Individual schools would independently review and remove content, but the re-

sults of their review often failed to reach other schools within the same district. The policy written into the budget is an effort by lawmakers to establish consistency and coordination.

In light of the fragmented approach across the state, the New Hanover County Board of Education is among the systems to set up their own process to handle com-

plaints. In early April, Melissa Mason, a newly-elected Republican, brought forward a District-Wide Book Review Committee Proposal with the mission to “establish excellence in our libraries and classrooms and provide students with the highest quality literature in every library, classroom, and textbook.”

See MEDIA, Page 6

‘Media advisory’ boards would review complaints over certain books in schools

Superintendent of Schools will transition to new career opportunity

by TODD HAGANS Chief Communications Officer Gaston County Schools

Superintendent of Schools

W. Jeffrey Booker, Ed.D., will transition to a new career opportunity, thus ending his service to Gaston County Schools at the conclusion of the 2022-2023 academic year. Booker informed the Board of Education of his decision during the Board’s regular monthly meeting on April 17.

“It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve as Superintendent of Gaston County Schools,” stated Booker. “I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished over the past 14 years during my tenure as Deputy Superintendent and Superintendent of Schools.”

“My decision to leave Gaston County Schools was not made in haste; it involved much thought, prayer, and input from my family,” added Booker. “In February, I celebrated my 60th birthday. The milestone caused me to reflect about my career and what I want to do during my last several years of professional work. Working for Gaston County Schools has been a humbling and rewarding experience, and I will always cherish my time with the school system. Now, I am ready to concentrate my attention on making an impact in other ways.”

Booker joined Gaston County Schools in May 2009 as Deputy Superintendent of Operations. In November 2013, he was selected by the Board of Education to serve as the district’s seventh superintendent, succeeding L. Reeves McGlohon, who retired in December 2013.

Booker praises the employees of Gaston County Schools for providing a positive learning environment where students can grow, thrive, and succeed. He also expresses appreciation to current and past members of the Board of Education for their unwavering support of and confidence in his leadership.

“Together, we have accomplished much since I became Superintendent on Jan. 1, 2014. From focusing on academic progress and expanding programs for students to building strong partnerships and celebrating countless achievements, we have moved Gaston County Schools forward, and this makes me extremely proud. I am grateful for all employees – our school system is strong, productive, and successful because of our employees’ steadfast commitment to the students of our community.”

During Booker’s nineplus years as Superintendent of Schools:

District leaders have been able to work with the county commission and county government to secure more local funding for Gaston County Schools. The additional funds have gone toward facility maintenance and capital projects, employee/teacher pay supplements and benefits, expansion of programs, technology, inflationary costs, and other areas of need.

Gaston County Schools was able to expend remaining

ule – doing so kept students engaged in academics and lessened the impact of learning loss.

funds from the 2007 school bond referendum that included many capital needs projects, the renovation of Hunter Huss High School, and the construction of three new school facilities – Stuart W. Cramer High School in 2013, Pleasant Ridge Elementary School in 2017, and Stanley Middle School in 2018. In May 2018, the citizens of Gaston County approved a $250 million school bond referendum – the largest in Gaston County Schools’ history – with overwhelming support. The 2018 school bonds have made it possible to address much-needed renovation and repair projects at many schools across the county, open a new Belmont Middle School in 2021, and replace the aging Grier Middle School campus with a new school that is scheduled to open in 2025.

• Gaston County Schools has become a model district for school safety, thanks to the investment in and constant focus on safety and security. The district’s ongoing partnership with the Gaston County Police Department, Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, municipal/city police departments, and other agencies as well as various school security initiatives have contributed to Gaston County having one of the best school safety rates in the state when compared to the largest school districts.

▪ In academics, Gaston County Schools recorded steady progress in student proficiency and academic growth prior to the COVID19 pandemic and saw the graduation rate reach an all-time high. Coming out of the pandemic, students have achieved significant academic growth, a sign that schools are moving in the right direction toward improved student achievement. In the area of Career and Technical Education (CTE), the district gained statewide recognition for the number of industry-recognized credentials earned by students, and renewed attention on CTE connected students with local businesses and created job-related opportunities for students.

The global pandemic was an unprecedented time for everyone, and Gaston County Schools was not immune from the drastic effects of COVID-19. Fortunately, through careful leadership and cooperation with the local health department and other agencies, Gaston County Schools was able to implement a plan that took the health, safety, and well-being of students, employees, and others into consideration while being able to operate schools on a staggered sched-

The number of school choice/magnet school options for students and families increased from two to 22 in a seven-year span. Prior to 2016 when Hawks Nest Intermediate School was transformed into the Hawks Nest STEAM Academy magnet school for grades K-5, Gaston County Schools had only two choice schools in the district – Highland School of Technology and Gaston Early College High School. The school choice options also include the Gaston Virtual Academy, which was one of the few virtual/online schools operated by a school system when it was established in 2017.

▪ Gaston County Schools also saw advancements in the areas of technology and communication. The district reached its goals of providing a computing device for every student, expanding WiFi access at all schools, upgrading technology infrastructure, and ensuring that schools have up-to-date technology for teacher and student use. Further, the district updated its website and introduced a mobile app. ▪ Numerous business and community partnerships have been established, renewed, and expanded to enhance academics, athletics, professional development, and other areas. Most notable are Gaston County Schools’ partnerships with CaroMont Health, Gaston College, Belmont Abbey College, Gardner-Webb University, Courage Kia, Wells Fargo, Truist, GSM Services, Duke Energy, the Gaston County Health Department, and the Gaston County Education Foundation, to name just a few.

▪ Professional development opportunities for teachers, administrators, classified staff, and other employees became an area of concentration to coincide with Gaston County Schools’ vision of inspiring lifelong learning. For example, through the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy, the district has been able to grow, encourage, and develop the next generation of classroom teachers and school/central level administrators.

Gaston County Schools has consistently exhibited the spirit of caring and giving. The district’s annual contribution to the United Way of Gaston County has ranged from approximately $90,000 to $100,000-plus, and over three separate years as part of the “Nickels 4 Neighbors” campaign, the schools collected a total of $65,000 for school districts in North and South Carolina that were affected by hurricanes/floods. Additionally, the schools have raised thousands of dollars for charitable organizations and conducted various collection drives to help people in need.

And, during the 20182019 academic year, Gaston County Schools celebrated its 50th anniversary in a big way with a parade, museum exhibit, photo display, employee talent show, and other special activities.

In addition to the accomplishments listed above, Booker was chosen by his fellow superintendents as the Southwest Region Superintendent of the Year in 2016-2017 and 2022-2023 and was selected as a finalist both times for the N.C. Superintendent of the Year recognition.

The Board of Education is responsible for appointing Booker’s successor and will develop a plan and timeline for selecting the next Superintendent of Schools.

Board of Education Chairman Jeff K. Ramsey stated, “Words cannot adequately express how much we appreciate Dr. Booker and his many significant contributions to Gaston County Schools. Certainly, he will be missed. We will be forever grateful for his vision, leadership, and willingness to do everything possible to move us forward. Without question, he has left his mark on Gas-

Ramsey added, “It is the goal of the Board of Education to find someone for the Superintendent position who can lead us in continuous improvement, guide us to achieve more, and encourage us to be the best we can be in much the same way that Dr. Booker has over the past nine years. We want our next Superintendent to help us build on everything we have achieved during Dr. Booker’s

PREMIX Group locates in Gaston Co. Apple Creek Corporate Center

The Gaston County Economic Development Commission is pleased to announce that PREMIX Group has agreed to purchase property in the Apple Creek Corporate Center and ground has been broken there for construction to begin. PREMIX Group, a plastics manufacturer, will create more than 30 new jobs in Gaston County, North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders announced recently. The company will invest $47 million to locate its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Gaston County.

“We are delighted to welcome Premix to North Carolina, where we have the largest manufacturing workforce in the southeastern United States,” said Secretary Sanders. “Global companies need a world-class workforce to execute its advanced manufacturing expansions and our workforce development strategies and training partnerships will help support those expansions.”

Based in Finland, PRE-

MIX Group is a family-owned company that manufactures electrically conductive plastics.

The company’s plastic compounds have been distributed across the globe for more See PREMIX, Page 9

Ground being broken at the first of March 2023 for PREMIX Group. (photos provided)

Mr. Jari-Matti Mehto (President and Ceo – Premix), speaking at the March 2023 groundbreaking of Premix.

Never, ever, forget… God is always on time in answering our prayers!

“But as for me, my prayer is to You, O Lord, in the acceptable time; O God, in the multitude of Your mercy, Hear me in the truth of Your salvation. Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink; Let me be delivered from those who

hate me, And out of the deep waters.” – Psalm

69:13-14

I believe our love of the Psalms is found in how we all at some point in our lives, and on some level, can relate to the psalmist’ heart. Our hearts, like the rest of our flesh, usually like a quick fix. Our prayers are often, “Lord it’s me. I’m in a jam. People hate me, and I feel like

Connected to the

Vine

Sitting at my kitchen table, I decided to get a healthy snack. I had recently brought various fruits, but nothing beats a sweet, juicy, delicious apple. As I began to slice it up, to my disappointment the apple had several rotten places. However, I cut off the decaying pieces and ate the edible parts. This reminded me of John 15:1-5 in the bible which says: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit un-less you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Like the apple, we may look “spiritually” good on the outside to everyone around us, but God searches the inside to see what truly is going on in our hearts and minds. Jeremiah 17:10 states, “But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” Just as children grow from infancy to adulthood, similarly, followers of Jesus are to continually develop and foster qualities that lead to spiritual maturity and Christ-likeness. Jesus died to wash away our sins; eternal life is a free gift, but the Christian walk costs everything. God wants to continue to become more beautiful and brighter on the inside by being connected to the vine - Christ.

In order to produce more fruit in us, our heavenly Father (the Gardener in John 15:1), has a method called “pruning”. This process can be painful and difficult as he removes the junk, hin-drances, and non-essentials from our lives. Although this is necessary, if we are honest, we kick and throw tantrums as the pruning begins because we want to hang on to the people, plac-es, habits, and ideas that we are accustomed to. We do this even when we know these things hold us back from going to the next level spiritually and personally. However, to become who we were created to be and fulfill our divine purpose, we must let go and allow him to complete his perfect work within us. Then, we will bear much fruit and God will be glorified!

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

“Father God, I magnify your holy name. You know all about me Lord - including my weaknesses and inner struggles. Yet, you love me and have given me a purpose. Help me to follow your ex-ample of complete surrender to the Father’s will. Teach me to pray earnestly. Remind me to be eternity minded. Lord, I ask you to immerse me in your Holy Spirit so I am empowered to live for you. 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.

I am drowning. Deliver me ASAP.”

But the prayer of the psalmist here shows maturity and understanding. He is in a sticky situation. He needs to be delivered and he feels vulnerable. However, his request yields to the sovereignty of God’s timing: “in the acceptable time” and “in the multitude of Your mercy.” The psalmist’s heart is already prepared that God will have enough mercy for him, that God will hear his

request, and in God’s time deliverance will come.

As a child growing up in church, I remember often hearing the pastor and some senior saints say, “God’s trains all run on time. They are seldom early, never late, but always on time.” That was their simple way of saying to pray, trust, and wait on God because He will never fail you.

I believe there is one clear-cut way to stay disappointed in prayer

– always put your own time requirements on all your prayer requests – as opposed to trusting in God’s timing. How else can your heart truly learn to worship if your heart doesn’t learn to trust God in His timing?

As we pray, we should confess our need and desperation for deliverance. Then, we need to trust that God will answer at an acceptable time.

Shady Grove Baptist Church’s Homecoming is May 7

Shady Grove Baptist Church, 3240 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville, NC, will be having their Homecoming Celebra-tion on Sunday, May 7. There will be a concert, featuring Bri-an Burchfield, for morning worship at 10 a.m., followed by a covered dish lunch. We look forward to worshiping with you!

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

DANYALE PATTERSON

NC House passes Fairness in Women’s Sports Act

by CAROLINA JOURNAL STAFF

Lawmakers in the North Carolina House passed H574, the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act which would prevent biological female athletes from being forced to compete against biological male transgender athletes in school sports designated for females. The bill would not prevent transgender athletes from participating on teams that are co-ed or designated for their biological sex at birth.

The bill passed the House Judiciary Committee Wednesday morning, the Rules Committee at lunchtime, and passed third reading of the full House by the end of the day Wednesday. The veto-proof vote was 73 to 39 with three Democrats voting in favor of the measure. Rep. Shelly Willingham, D-Edgecombe; Rep. Michael Wray, D-Warren; and Rep. Garland Pierce, D-Hoke, all voted for the bill.

The bill sponsors, Rep. Erin Pare, R-Wake, Rep. Kristin Baker, R-Cabarrus, Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, R-Henderson, and Rep. Karl Gillespie, R-Cherokee, invited collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines to testify on behalf of the bill Tuesday morning in committee. Gaines’ story has become national news after she tied

transgender swimmer Lia Thomas in an NCAA championship race designated for women and the organization honored Thomas, a biological male, instead of Gaines.

At Tuesday’s committee hearings opponents from Equality NC urged lawmakers to reject the bill saying that it prevents transgender athletes from competing, and warning that activist outcry, similar to the state’s HB2 “bathroom bill,” could ensue.

So far this year 20 states have passed legislation protecting the rights of female athletes from facing what supporters say is an unfair competitive advantage from biologically male transgender athletes. However, the competitive advantage was not the only argument in favor of the bill.

Payton McNabb of Cherokee County, North Carolina, was also there to testify to her own experience. She was critically injured in a Hiwassee High School volleyball game in which she was playing against Highlands High School. A transgender athlete on the opposing team spiked a ball into her head, knocking her unconscious, ending her season, and setting off months of pain, rehabilitation, learning challenges, and other injuries. The Cherokee County

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF JERRY WAYNE PALMER

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Jerry Wayne Palmer, 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 26th day of July, 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 26th day of April, 2023.

Wilma June Palmer

Executrix

Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (4/26, 5/03, 10 & 17/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 21st of December, 2022 as Administratrix-CTA of the Estate of ROBERT EMERY DAVIS, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Yvonne Eve Evans, as Administratrix-CTA on or before the 19th of July, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 19th day of April, 2023.

Yvonne Eve Evans, Administratrix-CTA

Estate of Robert Emery Davis 1035 Davis Springs Road

Bessemer City, NC 28016

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

PO Box 165

Shelby, NC 28151

CE (4/19, 26, 5/03 &10/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

ALVIN LARRY WOODALL, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 30th day of March, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Alvin Larry Woodall, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 21st day of July, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 19th day of April, 2023.

Joseph Woodall, Ex.

P.O. Box 1861 Etowah, NC 28729

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

CE (4/19, 4/26, 5/3 & 5/10/2023)

School Board vote 5 to 1 to forfeit future games against Highland out of concern for the safety of the female athlete on their teams. As a result, the forfeiting teams and athletes could not compete at state conferences and championships.

“The rest of my team was terrified because they didn’t want it to happen to them too, but the other team, the one with the transgender athlete on it, they just kinda laughed,” she said.

McNabb told Carolina Journal that the one neurologist who saw her after the injury would not treat her out of fear for the political climate that comes with her being injured by a transgender player.

“They didn’t want to be

MEDIA

From Page 3

“The current process directs parents to communicate with individual schools to remove objectionable content,” Mason told Carolina Journal. “If it is deemed inappropriate, it is removed from one school only. It stands to reason that if the content of a book is unacceptable in one school, it is unacceptable for all schools within that age bracket.”

Under the policy in the proposed budget, at least 12 members would comprise each local community media advisory committee, including a

a part of it because it was so controversial,” she said.

Controversy has been following Gaines too since she became a vocal supporter of protecting women’s sports. After a speech at San Francisco State University two weeks ago, Gaines was chased and shouted down by protestors, leading her to be locked in a classroom for three hours while security found reinforcements. The video of that harrowing moments went viral on social media and led her to become even more outspoken.

While in Raleigh Wednesday, McNabb and Gaines were surrounded by Capitol Police officers as they made their way to lawmakers’ offices and committee rooms. There were activists there to

principal, teacher, parent, and library media coordinator from a district’s high school, middle school, and elementary school. Challenges to materials inside the schools would be made to the Board of Education in writing, and must be made on the grounds of content “being obscene, inappropriate to the age, maturity, or grade level of the students, or not aligned with the standard course of study.”

The committee would have two weeks to hold a hearing in which the challenger would present their case for the material to be removed. Following the hearing, the committee would have two weeks to make a required recom-

oppose the bill, but generally the mood was calm.

Gaines was originally scheduled to start dental school this year, but has instead taken this opportunity to partner with the Independent Women’s Forum to educate legislatures across the country on measures to protect women’s sports. Later this week she is lobbying against the Biden Administration’s efforts to amend the Title IX laws that protect women’s sports. Those federal amendments are aimed at blocking states from banning biologically male transgender athletes from women’s sports. The Biden administration says the new rules “govern a recipient’s adoption or application

mendation to the full board of education. The board would decide whether the “challenge has merit and whether the challenged material should be retained or removed as unfit material.”

Mason has seen some of this content in local New Hanover County Schools.

“The content within the literature was both disturbing and obscene, involving vivid descriptions of sexual acts and molestation,” she said. “As I have a background in education, including the study of cognitive development in children, it has been apparent to me that this type of media was not suitable for students and offered little to no educational value.”

Along with the creation

of sex-related criteria that would limit or deny a student’s eligibility to participate on a male or female athletic team consistent with their gender identity.”

In Wednesday’s hearing at the N.C. legislature, opponents of the bill urged lawmakers to wait for those Title IX amendments from the Biden administration to govern this issue. Several said that while McNabb’s injury was unfortunate, there are only fifteen or fewer transgender athletes competing in women’s sports in N.C., so the bill was “a solution in search of a problem.”

“They made me feel like I didn’t really matter because it was just me, just one person,” McNabb told Carolina Journal. “If it was going to happen to anyone on my team, I’d rather it happen to me instead of my younger cousins, or my teammates, because I guess I’m the one who could take it… the Lord let it happen to me for a reason because I feel like I should do something about it.”

The N.C. Senate has companion legislation in SB631, Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which was reported favorably out of the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday and is on the Senate calendar for next Thursday.

of a local committee, the House budget forms a State Community Media Advisory Committee under The State Board of Education. The state committee has a similar number of members to the local committees and is responsible for hearing any appeals of a local board of education decision. The state committee would generate a recommendation to be voted on by the State Board of Education. All decisions would be final and not subject to any further review.

The House budget was passed by lawmakers in that chamber on, moving on to the made its North Carolina Senate.

game on a spike by a transgender player on the other team, speaks at House Judiciary Committee hearing, April 19, 2023. (Source – NCLEG livestream)

Back from Beach Diamond Invitational, Cherryville Ironmen are now 16-4 overall

Will honor 1998 state championship team Thursday night, April 26

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The CHS Ironmen baseball team came back from their Beach Diamond Invitational last week and went right back to work, taking on two teams; the Highland Tech Rams (twice) and the West Lincoln Rebels and came away victorious, defeating the Rams in their first matchup on Tuesday, April 18, by a score of 16-4 in five innings of play; defeating the Rebels on Wednesday, April 19, by a score of 7-2, again winning in six innings; and finally blasting the Rams again, 16-4 in a Thursday, April 20 home game that was moved from the originally scheduled Friday, April 21, due to possible inclement weather.

Breaking down the stats, the winning pitcher for the first HT game was righthander Brayden Reynolds. Reynolds is now 3 wins and 2 losses in his pitching stats. Chase Miller came in the last inning to mop up.

The Ironmen tagged 11 hits to get their 16 runs in this one. Hitters for Coach Heavner’s club for this game were Landon Hahn (1-5, an RBI); Collin Robinson (0-2, an RBI); Kanon Willis (2-3, 3 RBIs); Will Fowler (2-4, 2 RBIs); Will Heavner (1-2); Tobias Miller (0-2, an RBI); Collin Huss (1-4, 3 RBIs); Eli

Newsome (1-4, 2 RBIs); and Chase Miller (1-3, 3 RBIs).

Against West Lincoln last week (April 19), pitcher Kanon Willis went 6 innings and gave up one run. Collin Robinson came in and gave up a run. He was credited as the winning pitcher.

The Ironmen scored 5 runs in the top of eighth inning.

The Ironmen took on the HT Rams again, this time at Fraley Field on Thursday, April 20 (date was changed) and defeated that club again by a score of 13-3. Eli Newsome got the win on the mound. With that win, young Newsome is the team’s winningest pitcher this year with 6 wins against 1 loss. The Ironmen banged out 10 hits on the

way to the 13-run win.

Hitters for the Ironmen in this one were: Hahn (2-5, 2 RBIs); Robinson (1-3, an RBI); Willis (1-4, a triple, 3 RBIs); W. Heavner (14); T. Miller (1-3, 3 RBIs); Huss (1-4); B. Reynolds (1-2, an RBI); and C. Miller (2-3, two doubles, an RBI). CHS Athletic director

Scott Harrill said the Ironmen and CHS will honor the 1998 state championship team Thursday night, April 27, at the baseball game at Fraley Field against the visiting Green Wave of Ashbrook.

CHS plays BCHS at Bessemer City at 7 p.m., on Friday, April 28. SPC 1A/2A tournament

play is scheduled to start on May 2 and run through May 5, according to the sched-

ule. May 19 is the start of the NCHSAA State Playoffs (times to be determined).

(Additional stats and info by Susan L. Powell and Danny Eaker)

2023-2024 NC migratory game bird seasons released

include:

On Tuesday, April 18, the Cherryville Lady Ironmen defeated the Highland Tech Lady Rams by a score of 16 – 4, at Highland Tech.

Coach Lance Beam said Raylei Gidney was the winning pitcher with 9 strikeouts.

The following batters did a great job for the CHS ladies: Lexi McSwain (4 hits, 2 RBI’s); Laila Davis (3 hits, 3 RBI’s); Riley Bryant (3 hits, 3 RBI’s); Landyn McBride (3 hits, 2 RBI’s); Ava Miller (2 hits, 3 RBI’s); and Taylor Digh (2 hits).

That same week, on Thursday, April 20, The CHS ladies took on the Lady Rams of Highland Tech again and won again by a score of 10 – 0.

Coach Beam said righthander Raylei Gidney was the winning pitcher with 5 strikeouts. Batters who did well for the Lady Ironmen in this one were: Taylor Digh (2 doubles, triple, 4 RBI’s), Emma Proctor (2 doubles, 4 RBI’s), and Krista Davis (double, triple, 1 RBI).

The Cherryville HS Lady Ironmen took on the BCHS Lady Yellow Jackets on Tuesday, April 25 at CHS Field, and will be away against the Lincoln Charter Lady Eagles on Wednesday, April 26, then are at BCHS on Friday, April 28.

Tournament play is scheduled to be May 2, 3, and 5, at a time and place to be announced.

Officials with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission have announced last week the approved season dates, bag limits and applicable regulations for the 2023-24 waterfowl, webless migratory game bird (including doves) and extended falconry seasons.

The dates are available online and will be published in the 2023-24 Inland Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Regulations Digest this August.

Although the majority of seasons remain unchanged, notable changes

• The mallard daily bag limit will increase from 2 mallards (only one hen mallard) to 4 mallards (only two hen mallards) daily.

• The daily bag limit for Canada geese (also includes white-fronted geese) in the Northeast Canada Goose Hunt Zone will increase from 1 Canada goose or white-fronted goose to 2 Canada geese or white-fronted goose either singly or in the aggregate. For more information on migratory game birds

in North Carolina, visit the Wildlife Commission’s Migratory Birds and Waterfowl webpage.

About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission

Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state’s fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fish-

ing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. Purchase or a renew a fishing, trapping and hunting license and renew a vessel registration online at ncwildlife.org.

Get N.C. Wildlife Update – news including season dates, bag limits, legislative updates and more – delivered free to your Inbox from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.

Cherryville’s Brittain honored at Maryville College’s annual Academic Awards Ceremony

Maryville College recognized the school’s ideals of scholarship, respect and integrity during the institution’s annual Academic Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 15, and senior Jace Brittain received one of the evening’s honors.

Brittain, a business analytics major from Cherryville, received the College’s Liberal Arts Award, given to the graduating seniors who have earned the highest grade point averages in all core courses taken at Maryville College.

Held in the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre of the Clayton Center for the Arts, the annual event honors those MC students who have completed the

2022-23 academic year in ways that lift up the scholastic value of a liberal arts education. Numerous students, parents and family members were in the audience, and a procession of faculty members and administrators – led by macebearer Dr. Zachary Himmelberger, assistant professor of psychology – joined the honorees on stage.

“These students have shown a devotion to learning, a passion for understanding, a sensitivity to nuance, an appreciation for cultural and social diversity, and a willingness to use their growing wisdom for the common good,” said Dr. Dan Klingensmith, vice president

and dean of the College, who served as the evening’s emcee. “I speak for all of my colleagues, I believe, when I say that there is no higher honor than to guide them along the way to these academic accomplishments, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to honor them at this annual ceremony.”

(About the college –Maryville College is a nationally-ranked institution of higher learning and one of America’s oldest colleges. For more than 200 years, we’ve educated students to be giving citizens and gifted leaders, to study everything, so that they are prepared for anything – to address any problem, engage with any

audience and launch successful careers right away.

Located in Maryville, TN, between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the city of Knoxville, Maryville College offers nearly 1,200 students from around the world both the beauty of a rural setting and the advantages of an urban center, as well as more than 60 majors, seven pre-professional programs and career preparation from their first day on campus to their last. Today, our 10,000 alumni are living life strong of mind and brave of heart and are prepared, in the words of our Presbyterian founder, to “do good on the largest possible scale.”)

Ironman Collin Robinson squares up against the pitch at last week’s away win against the West Lincoln Rebels. (photos by Scott Harrill)

Rebels pitcher for such.

Lady Ironmen softball squad wins two in last week’s action

CARE GIVER NEEDED. Need someone to help take care of wife that had a stroke. Room and Board available. 704-2844531.

LOCAL CDL DRIVERS NEED-

ED. Home everyday full or part time, 2 years experience, clean driving record, 53’ trailers, excellent pay and benefits. Apply in person at Cyclone Trucking, Inc. Cherryville, NC. 704-5307489, (704) 236-4095

HELP WANTED. ABOVE

GROUND POOL INSTALL-

ERS - (Seasonal) Starting pay-$20/hr. Top pay-$25/ hr. Plus Gas Allowance. Need license and vehicle. Contact KM Pools at 704739-1000.

PIANO/ORGAN PLAYER. New Salem Church of Shelby needs piano/organ player 9:30am to 10:30am Sunday mornings for non-denominational church. Play 3 hymns and opening and closing music (chosen by church). For info call James at 704-482-6319 (704) 482-6319 jamesejohnson10@yahoo.com

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED. JN

GREENE ELECTRICAL

CONTRACTING is seeking full time electricians and laborers. Experience is preferred but not required. Electrician starting pay $15.00 – $30.00 based on experience. Laborers starting pay $10.50 - $15.00 based on experience. Please contact Joe Greene for more information. (704) 473-6862 joe@jngreeneelectrical.com

NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-

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BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITIES

RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT. 134 North Main Street Belmont, NC. Historic Downtown Belmont (704) 825-5656 piccoloantiques@gmail.com

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BUSINESS SERVICES

RETIRED GENERAL CONTRACTOR available for deck repairs and small repairs. Stairs, deck and porch railings, etc. Call Bob 828-476-6058. (828) 476-6058

WILL CLEAN HOUSES AND BUSINESSES. Reasonable rates. Call or text me at 704419-9016 or email me at sgacsa@aol.com (704) 419-9016

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CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

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FOR SALE

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NEW 6X12 TRAILER “RENT

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FOR SALE

TZORA LIGHT MOBILITY

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PETS & LIVESTOCK

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DISCOUNT APPLIANCES Refrigerators, washers, dyers and stoves. 704-477-4766. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

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RECORD? AA UNITED CAB COMPANY is hiring qualified individuals for driver positions.

“Must Pass Drug Test & Physical”. Call (704) 482-7000

ONE ON ONE CARE. Is hiring for 2nd and 3rd shifts in the residential homes. If interested apply in person at 203 Lee St, Shelby NC.

GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS IS HIRING teachers, teacher assistants, bus drivers, and cafeteria, maintenance, and office staff. Register online for our job fair on Friday, April 28, 2023:

www.gaston.k12.nc.us/jobs

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION, site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, pruning, planting, excavator work. 828-453-8113.

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2 DAY YARD SALE Fri., April 28th -Sat., April 29th. 7am-1 pm. Women’s-Men’s-Little Girl’s Clothes-Household items. 123 Earney Rd, Kings Mountain, NC.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE. Saturday May 6th. Rain date May 20th.

SHIPPING CRATE $35.00. I have wood shipping crates for sale with lids. I can send pictures of them. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

REFRIGERATOR FOR SALE. Large stainless steel 4-door Samsung Refrigerator. $350. Excellent condition. 704-4820540.

WE’VE GOT THE KNIVES &COINS! Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-6006996 (980) 295-5568 NEW CAR SHED FOR THE NEW YEAR! Single Car $288 Down from $89 month. Double $395 Down from $123.45 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895 STEEL BUILDINGS (OPEN OR FULLY ENCLOSED) 14 on Display. 12’ Wide to 40 EVEN 60 Clear Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete” TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

TRAILERS, TRAILERS! DUMP TRAILERS, GOOSENECK, DECK OVER, EQUIPMENT, ALL PURPOSE TRAILERS, CAR HAULERS. Cash, Finance, Credit Cards, Rent to Own (No Credit Check) J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895 SOUTHERN BRAND 6 FOOT BOX-BLADE. Brand new, never used. $1,100. Walk-behind platetamp compactor $275. 828-289-1817.

7 TON GOOSENECK 25

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

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

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

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

FARM & GARDEN

WHITE COKE TABLE. Round, fair condition, 2 red metal folding Coke chairs, excellent condition and 2 Coke round pillows.

$150 OBO. 704-769-4091

2405 PRESSURE WASHER $200. Honda generator $50. Also Bees for sale. 828-2450956.

USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. 828-9800788 or 828-286-8674.

LOCALLY DESIGNED

NAME GIFTS Visit www. nc4ever.com/locally-designed-name-gifts.html to see if a locally designed gift with your name is available NC4Ever@USA.com

BOAT & RV COVERS-WE INSTALL. 14 on Site that you can look at and touch! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

FOOT. Lay Flat Ramp “All Rubber Seal Lights” Tool Box & More! $12,900 OR No Credit Check Rent to Own. From $639 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPOS “BUY, SELL, TRADE!” J Johnson Sales, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

“Must Have Title” J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

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

WATER TOTES $75 Burning barrels $15. Solid top plastic or metal barrels $12. Feed Barrels (Plastic with Lids & Rings) $20. Toro Riding Mower & John Deere $700 each. Call Jeff, Hickory, NC (828) 327-4782

HONEY BEES FOR SALE. Quality, locally raised queens and bees selected for gentle behavior, hygiene, and heartiness. 5 frame nucleus colonies containing bees, brood, nectar, honey, pollen, and a queen raised locally in 2023 for $175. Mated queens $35. Limited supply remaining. Call 704913-5802 to reserve yours for pickup. (704) 913-5802

NEEDED HANDYMAN. Handyman Needed to Clean up Around Old Farm with chainsaw and license. Also Needing a Good Used Utility Vehicle Mule etc. Call 828-248-2184.

GARDEN TILLING SERVICES AVAILABLE. Tractor with 6’ rototiller. Within 40 miles of Shelby. No job too big or small. (704) 692-4079

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CKC TOY POODLES. 1 CKC toy poodle. Red male will weigh 4-5 lbs. Ready 3/26/23 ready to go $1300. (704) 426-7920 buttercupcreme@yahoo.com

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. 7 boys, 2 girls. Ready to go. Shots current. Call Ronnie for more info. (704) 974-2716

CKC BICHON FRIZE PUPPIES. Two females. One male. 12 weeks old. Hypo-allergenic. Ready for forever home. Shots, medical exam. Serious inquiries only. Text/call 828-748-6563, 9am-7pm, leave message. FREE GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES to Forever Homes! 1 Male, 1 Female. Excellent temperament! House trained with very good trainable natures and perfect for families with children and other pets! I will not re-home to just anyone. Please email me first at: staceymcclelland8@gmail.com and Text (312) 270-0850

SHIHTZU. SHORKIEPOO AND SHIHPOO PUPPIES. UTD on shots and wormings and come with a written health guarantee. Please visit www. quailhollowpuppies.com for more information (828) 5699807 juliecarr42@yahoo.com

COCKAPOO PUPPIES. Born March 6, 2023. Tails docked, dew clawed. Parents on site. Ready now. $900. Call Greg after 8am. 828-305-2181. TOY AND MINI AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS. Male and female, assorted colors, some blue-eyed. Shots, wormed, fully vetted. 828-289-6756.

AKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS. UTD Shots, full registration. 10 weeks old. $700. (839) 400-1723

DOG KENNELS 5X10, 10X10, 10X20. Dog Houses, Tops for Kennels. “Delivery & Setup Available” J Johnson Sales 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

CKC POMERANIANSMALES &FEMALES Energetic. Adorable. Cute as they can be! Purebred Pomeranian. Peepad trained. Parents on site. Current on shots & de-worming. Ready for new fur-ever family today. Cash only. Guesstimated adult weight ranges 5 - 11+ lbs. More info at www.ExclusivePoms.com (404) 626-6540 bepoms77@gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUP-

PIES Beautiful pure bred Golden Retrievers. Vet checked with all shots up to date. Male and females about 14 weeks old. Family raised with the parents on premise. Located in Kings Mountain. Please text your interest to 704-974-3296. $400 for either gender. (704) 974-3296 sonjat1@yahoo.com

CKC GREAT DANE PUPPIES. Great Dane puppies for sale. 2 boys (black in color) 9 girls (8 black, 1 blue) black puppies are $800.00. The blue girl is $1000.00. They will be ready for delivery April 23rd. Deposits can be made to hold a puppy. Deposit is half of total price, with balance paid at pickup. Puppies will have first vet visit, first shots, blanket, CKC registration paperwork, puppy packet with vet info, sample of puppy food to prevent tummy upset. Contract to be signed at time of purchase or deposit paid. Deposits are non refundable with a couple of exceptions. Mom and dad on site. Mom is CKC registered, dad is dual registered with both AKC and CKC. Please call to set up a time to meet the babies. Look forward to hearing from you!!! (828) 395-5371 cswink1978@yahoo.com

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. Australian Shepherd Puppies. Red-Tri and Black-Tri. Males and Female. (828) 3083710

CONTURNIX QUAIL $5 Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Bob Whites $8.00. Hatching Eggs. 704-476-9943 (704) 476-9943 jw28178@ gmail.com

PREMIX

From Page 4 than three decades. PREMIX serves the automotive, diagnostics, electronics, life sciences, and other industrial sectors. The new facility is in Gaston County’s Apple Creek Corporate Center and will include manufacturing, warehouse, office, and lab space for its diagnostic testing operations.

“The new capacity will improve PREMIX’s global supply capability and mitigate risks in global supply chains,” said Jari-Matti Mehto, President and CEO of PREMIX, Inc. “With the new U.S. plant, we will im-

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CARS & TRUCKS

1989 TOYOTA 2WD PICKUP. New motor, as is $2,200. 828412-2237

1998 FORD F-150 Extended cab, 4.2 motor, running boards, bedcover, $5000 obo. (704) 718-1035

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS 2000 HARLEY DAVIDSON NIGHT TRAIN. Very dependable ride, $6000. (980) 5525883

CAMPERS

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES Beautiful pure bred Golden Retrievers. Vet checked with all shots up to date. Male and females about 14 weeks old. Family raised with the parents on premise. Located in Kings Mountain. Please text your interest to 704-974-3296. $400 for either gender. (704) 974-3296 sonjat1@yahoo.com

BEAUTIFUL GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES AVAILABLE. Beautiful German shepherd puppies ready. Parents are on site. Text (704) 431-7697. Serious inquiries only, (704) 431-7697 batessherry37@gmail.com

CARS & TRUCKS

1997 FORD ECONOLINE COMMERCIAL CUTAWAY E350, 7.3 Diesel, White, Automatic, A/C, 123,790 miles, Utility Bed Box. Six NEW 215/75/16 Tires. $15,000 FIRM! Call (828) 245-9620

2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE. Body and inside like new, needs engine work. $4,000. 828-7554199.

2009 TOYOTA TACOMA 380,000 miles. $5500.00, OBO, New Battery, alternator and tires. All maintenance documented. Needs right axle seal. (704) 634-0553 bkingery@carolina.rr.com

prove our ability to serve our customers in the important U.S. market.”

Although wages will vary for each position, the average annual salary for the new positions is $54,063, which exceeds Gaston County’s overall average annual wage of $44,781. The new jobs have the potential to create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.7 million.

A performance-based grant of $75,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help with Premix’s location to North Carolina.

The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies re-

firm. Bike in excellent condition. Serious inquiries only. Title in hand. (704) 476-6851

ceive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“Congratulations to PREMIX on selecting North Carolina and Gaston County for its first U.S. facility,” said N.C. Sen. Kathy Harrington. “We appreciate the diligent work of the local, state and regional partners that helped recruit this growing company to our community.”

“This is outstanding news for our region and the entire state,” said N.C. Representative John A. Torbett. “These

VINTAGE CAMPER SALE. Cash Only ...relocation sale. All prices will be on Camper. All rare & restoration...is needed. Serious buyers only. ON SATURDAY APRIL 29th. Come and look. 9am text for address. No low ballers. (704) 418-6352 fiorentinopenny@yahoo.com

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

VACATIONS

BEACH HOUSES AT OCEAN LAKE. 2BR, 2BA, sleeps 6, golf cart, Wifi, Weeks and weekends available. 704-473-1494

OCEAN LAKES, BIG DISCOUNTS. On Spring & Fall Weeks. 7 houses, 3 ocean front, some with golf carts. Call Tammy Patterson, 704-418-4756. 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

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

new jobs and investments affirm Gaston County’s reputation for international companies that want to their presence in the U.S. market.”

Chad Brown, Chairman of the Gaston County Board of Commissioners said “We are very excited to welcome PREMIX Group and are pleased to add this great addition to the newly developed Apple Creek Corporate Center. The commissioners invested in the industrial park so our County had the ability to recruit companies and create more jobs, which has proven to be successful. PREMIX Group is joining GNT USA, Inc. and Knoll America in the park and we will cele-

REAL ESTATE OUT OF AREA

LAND FOR SALE BY OWNER 2

Acres-Possible partial financing. West on Hwy 74-Exit 167 South. Highway frontage. No Realtor Agents please. Utilities available. Call John-828-8630596. 10am-10pm.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby NC or call for more information 704-487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH APARTMENT. All appliances, utilities furnished, deposit and references. $1,675 month. (704) 472-2854 MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $210 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

EXCELLENT

Street, Shelby. (704) 487-6354

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications now. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 4827723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@ RPMMANAGED.COM

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

NOW LEASING: KINGS FALLS APARTMENTS. Kings Mountain’s Finest Senior Living. Accepting applications for our specious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartment Homes. Washer and Dryer Hookups, Secured Entry. Please contact our office or stop by to take a tour on Mondays and Thursdays 8:30-5:00.

Phone 704-739-6591, Luxury Living at an affordable price.

brate the official grand opening of Apple Creek Corporate Center on Tuesday, May 10, and look forward to PREMIX Group being a part of the celebration.”

“As Chair of the Gaston County EDC, I want to extend our sincere appreciation to the Premix Group for announcing their newest manufacturing operation in Gaston County. This announcement is yet another example of how Gaston County is becoming known around the globe as a place to locate for manufacturing firms. The plastics cluster in our county continues to grow and we are grateful for the Premix Group’s investment which will create quality jobs in

By JIM MILLER Editor

RUTHERFORD COUNTY 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $600 per month. 828-382-0475.

our county,” said Mrs. Julie Roper, Madam Chair of the Gaston County Economic Development Commission.

The Gaston County Economic Development Commission would like to thank our partners in this successful location of PREMIX Group –the Gaston County Board of Commissioners, Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation, Two Rivers Utilities, Gaston College, the North Carolina Community College System, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the N.C. Department of Commerce, and the North Carolina General Assembly.

Tips and Tours for Traveling with Grandchildren

Dear Savvy Senior,

My husband and I are interested in taking our two grandkids on a big trip this summer and are looking for some good ideas. Can you recommend some travel companies that offer special travel packages for grandparents and grandkids?

Doting Grandmother

Dear Doting, Grandparents traveling with just their grandchildren has become a growing segment of the multi-generational travel industry. Not only is this type of travel fun, it’s also a terrific way to strengthen generational bonds and create some lasting memories.

To help you with your traveling aspirations, there are a number of travel companies today that offer specialized grandparent/grandchildren and multi-generational trip packages. This is a nice way to go because they plan everything for you with most activities together, but some just for adults so you can get an occasional breather.

Available in various trip lengths and price ranges, these tours are designed for children, typically between the ages of six or

seven up to 18, and are usually scheduled in the summer, or sometimes during winter breaks when the kids are out of school. Here are some top tour companies to check into that will take you and your grandkids on a fun, well-planned vacation.

Road Scholar (RoadScholar.org): This well-established not-for-profit organization has offered educational travel to older adults since 1975. They currently offer 83 different programs geared to grandparent and grandchildren. About 75 percent of the grandparent trips are domestic; 25 percent are international.

Some of the many popular trip destinations include the U.S. National Parks, Washington D.C., Canada, France, Italy, Iceland, Costa Rica and the Galapagos Islands. The average cost per person per night is around $265 for domestic trips, $365 for international.

Intrepid (IntrepidTravel.com): An adventure travel tour operator that offers “grandparent holiday” tours that bring together the young and the young at heart. They offer 35 one and two-week tours in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, as well as in Alaska and Wyoming. To find

these trips, go to Intrepidtravel.com/us/ theme/family/grandparents.

Tauck (Tauck.com): This is a large tour operator that offers 19 foreign and domestic multigenerational trips called Tauck Bridges Family Tours. Some of their most popular trips are Costa Rica, the European riverboat cruises, and the Cowboy Country, which tours you through Wyoming and South Dakota.

Smithsonian Journeys (SmithsonianJourneys.org): They offer 10 different family journey trips to Iceland, New Zealand, Italy, Greece, Japan, Ireland, Costa Rica, South Africa, Yellowstone and a Rhine River cruise.

Journeys International (JourneysInternational.com): They offer customized multigenerational trips primarily to Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific.

Grandkids Travel Documents Depending on where you go and your mode of transportation, you’ll need to gather some documents for your grandchildren to make sure everything goes smoothly. In general, most travel experts recommend you bring a notarized travel

consent form (letter of permission from the parents), and a medical consent form in case any emergencies or problems arise. Also bring copies of insurance cards.

If you’re traveling domestically, you should know that airlines and trains don’t require any form of ID for children under 18. But if you’re traveling to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or other areas of the Caribbean by land or sea, grandchildren 15 and under will need certified copies of their birth certificates. And if your grandkids are 16 or older, or you’re traveling to these locations via air, passports will be required.

If you’re traveling overseas, all children, even infants, must have a passport. Some countries also require a visa for entry, and vaccinations may be required in some cases. Before booking a trip, check the U.S. Department of State’s website at Travel. State.gov for country-specific information.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

FESTIVAL

From Page 1 band was the Shelby-based group Dirty Grass Soul.

Mayor H.L. Beam, III, took the stage prior to Cat5’s opening numbers to thank everyone for coming out and to thank the sponsors of the Cherry Blossom Festival; the City of Cherryville, and Bob Barker and Patrick O’Leary, who generously gave to make sure this year’s festival would go forward.

“Are you ready to party!?”

Mayor Beam asked everyone gathered in front of the minipark stage. “I can’t hear you. Are you ready to PARTY!?”

This time the crowd roared their assent back to Mr. Beam, noting they were, indeed, ready to party!

Mayor Beam continued, “Mr. Bob Barker has sponsored this stage and festival for a number of years, and we want to thank Mr. O’Leary for his sponsorship as well. The Stroupe Family sponsored the Cat5 band and we also want to thank them as well.”

Additionally, Mayor Beam noted the kid’s play area was sponsored by Carolina Federal Credit Union.

Mayor Beam closed his remarks by telling everyone to enjoy themselves and thanking them again for coming to the 2023 Cherry Blossom Festival. The Miss Cherry

Blossom Festival Pageant was held at the Community Building on Friday too.

Mrs. Tackett said the teeshirt design was by Ginger Weathers, adding the Chamber had sold a number of the shirts prior to the actual opening day of the festival. Along with Mrs. Tackett at the teeshirt booth, were Hannah Garrett, of Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services, a long-time Chamber member; Felicia Bowman, and Mrs. Tackett’s daughter, Bailey.

Cherryville businessman and Chamber member and worker, Mike Clark, said of the festival, “So far, everything is going great times two!” Clark was helping man the alcohol sales area where,

once you purchased a wrist band, you could purchase either beer or wine, and walk around the festival with the drink.

Cherryville Police Department officers as well as Gaston County Sheriff’s were on hand to insure no one went beyond the confines of the festival’s parameters with an alcoholic beverage and to make sure everyone was safe.

On Saturday, the inclement weather sadly caused the much-loved Antique Car Show to have to cancel their date, but C. Grier Beam Truck Museum co-directors Kathy and Stan Bumgarner said the show would most likely be rescheduled, although an actual date had not been discussed at that point.

Also on Saturday, the eating contests (Cherry Pie/ Dessert-eating; Lottaburger; etc.) took place and the Gaston Symphonic Band was scheduled to perform. In addition to the food and beverage vendors already on site, arts and crafts vendors sat up on Main Street and sold their many wares. Other local businesses also had tents and booths lining Main Street as well. The Cherryville Branch Library was present, with Ms. Traci and Ms. Candy giving out free gifts and great advice on how to become a lifetime reader and library visitor.

Miss Traci said they had a good number of people come by, adding it was great to see so many folks come out, in spite of the rain earlier.

Downtown Director David Day was out Saturday and said, “Last night (Friday) was awesome! We had a great crowd come out to hear the band. It was great!” Day added he felt the Saturday crowds, which were just then getting started, were “beginning to get larger.”

With the end of this year’s CBF, the Chamber staff and Cherryville City crew are looking ahead to next year’s Cherry Blossom Festival. And – as always – plans are already being ;laid for that one… once the Fourth of July and all those other fantastic Cherryville festivals and events pass and things move along as time

goes by.

At Friday night’s April 21 CBF concert in the mini-park, the NC East coast band, Cat5, starts

Ms. Traci Pollitt, of the Cherryville Branch Library, speaks with Cherryville resident, Susan Manning the American Legion Post 100 tent at Saturday’s, April 22 Cherry Blossom Festival

Former CHS Ironmen basketball star, Lane Harrill, mans the Great Outdoors tent at Saturday’s April 22 Cherry Blossom Festival event.

Blue Line Crafts ladies Nikki Owenby and Sandy Moore man their tent and crafts booth at Saturday’s Cherry Blossom Festival.

This sign alerts everyone that Bob and Pat Barker presented this year’s fantastic Cherry

A crowd scene at last Saturday’s, April 22 Cherry Blossom Festival. Inclement weather caused the Antique Car Show to not be able to take place, and basically threatened the event that day as it looked like it could pour at any minute! (photos by MEP/CF Media/The Eagle or Susan L. Powell)