Cherryville Eagle

$35 million Winn Development project to transform historic

City of KM; Gaston Co. partner

GMSF Rime Ice Cleanup at Swinging Bridge – In winter, it’s not uncommon for Grandfather Mountain staff to head to the Mile High Swinging Bridge to clear ice away after a rime ice event. Rime ice occurs when super-cooled water droplets (like from a cloud or fog) freeze to a surface. The result can produce a dramatic effect where the mountain’s windswept evergreens and Swinging Bridge are covered in a dense layer of ice that can be inches thick and have the appearance of spikes.

Welcoming guests during Grandfather Mountain’s most extreme season

School Choice Fair is Feb. 3-4, at Gastonia Conference Center

Public Service Academy at John Chavis Middle and Cherryville High among the 22 programs featured

HAGANS

by TODD

Chief Communications Officer Gaston County Schools

The Gaston County Schools’ 2023 School Choice Fair will be held at the Gastonia Conference Center on Friday, Feb. 3 from 5 to 8 p.m., and on Saturday, Feb. 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event is an opportunity for students and parents to drop in and learn about the 22-school choice/magnet school programs that are available in Gaston County Schools. Students and parents have the opportunity to visit the individual school booths, meet the principal and other school representatives, and get information about each choice program. The School Choice Fair is free and open to the public; anyone interested in learning about the programs is encouraged to attend.

See GRANDFATHER, Page 4

Among the 22 schools

Representatives from John Chavis Middle School (Principal Matt Rikard) and Cherryville High School (Principal Shawn Hubers) participated in last year’s School Choice Fair at the Gastonia Conference Center to promote the Public Service Academy, which gives students an opportunity to explore careers in education/teaching, criminal justice, public safety, emergency medical care, and government. (photos by Sean Corcoran/Gaston County Schools)

to be featured at the School Choice Fair are Cherryville High School and John Chavis Middle School. Both the middle school and high school in Cherryville are home to the Gaston County Schools Public Service Academy, which gives students an opportunity to explore promising careers in education/teaching, criminal justice, public safety, emergency medical care, and government.

Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler delivers his comments at the GEMS QRV vehicle presentation on Monday at the Kings Mountain Fire department.

The new GEMS QRV, Unit 131, stands at the ready inside the bay of the Kings Mountain Fire Department.

Kings Mountain Fire Chief Tommy Harmon speaks to the crowd at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 QRV presentation. (photos by Michael Powell)

A group of Osage Mill VIPs with shovels, breaking ground at last week’s event in Bessemer City. (photos provided)

Bessemer City Mayor Becky Smith speaks at last week’s WinnDevelopment project.

(photo by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation)

■ OBITUARIES

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

1-22: Tracy Lee Keeler, 53, 511 N. Styer St., Cherryville; one count WSOJ (Lincoln County) felony fail to report change of address – sex offender and one count WSOJ (Gaston County) misdemeanor DWLR. $51,000 secured bond.

Harold Homesley

SEVEN LAKES, NC –James Harold Homesley, 88, a resident of Seven Lakes, N.C., and formerly of St. Simons Island, GA, passed away Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023 at his home.

Mr. Homesley was born Sept. 30, 1934 in Gaston County, N.C., a son of the late James Thadeus and Thelma Margaret Hammitt Homesley. He had served his country in the U.S. Army and attended Wake Forest University. He began his career with AT&T in Charlotte, N.C., and retired as District Marketing Manager in Atlanta, GA. Following his retirement, he, and his wife, Barbara, owned and operated a real estate agency in St. Simons, GA.

Mr. Homesley is survived by his wife, Barbara Covington Homesley; sons, James Harold “Hal” Homesley, Jr. (Diane B.) and David Mitchell “Mitch” Homesley; grandchildren, James H. “Jamey” Homesley, III (Taylor Rae), Jessica Diane Homesley and David Mitchell Homesley, Jr. (Rachel Maxey); great-grandchildren, David Mitchell Homesley, III, Annison Lynne Homesley and Reagan Catherine Homesley; and a sister, Lynette Homesley Taylor (Paul). A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Carter Funeral Home of Rockingham served the family of Mr. Homesley.

NC had 5th highest charter school enrollment in nation during pandemic

by DAVID BASS Carolina Journal

A new report ranks North Carolina fifth in the nation for number of new charter school enrollments during the pandemic. The ranking is another feather in the cap for the Tar Heel State when it comes to the growth of school choice in recent years.

The report, produced by the National Alliance for Charter Schools, found that charter school enrollments jumped by 14,312 new students from the 2019-2020 school year to the 2021-2022 school year. That brought total enrollments from 118,597 students to 132,909 students, a 12 percent gain.

During that same period of time, enrollments in traditional public schools dipped by 48,283 students, a decrease the report deemed was ninth largest in the nation.

Contrary to arguments that charter schools are not diverse or even that they promote racial segregation in schools, the report noted that student enrollments for black students in North Carolina grew at the same pace as for white students. Enrollments for black students jumped by 14 percent during the pandemic, while enrollments for Hispanic students increased by 23 percent.

For the nation as a whole, charter enrollments grew by nearly 240,000 students during the pandemic, while traditional public school enrollments dipped by nearly 1.5 million students.

“These data make one thing clear: the COVID-19 pandemic has opened the eyes of parents and families

Lee Boyd

VALE – Aaron Lee Boyd, 86, of Vale, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 at his residence. He was born Nov. 18, 1936 in Lancaster, SC, to the late Leona Hudson and Jason Boyd. Lee began boxing when he was 12 years old. After high school, he joined the Navy where he served on the “USS Thomaston” and fought for the Blue Jacket Boxing team.

During his career he was a Golden Glove boxer (winning in both 1956 and 1959), was chosen for the 1960 Rome Olympics, fought twice at Madison Square Garden, and one professional match ended in a split decision. His final Flyweight record was 150-13. Lee has been inducted into the North Carolina Boxing Hall of Fame and into the Lincoln County Sports Hall of Fame. After retiring from boxing, he worked for Carolina Freight Carriers in Cherryville for over 30 years as a driver, and retired from ABF Trucking.

Lee was a member of Reepsville Baptist Church where he served as Deacon for 31 years. He also served on 27 mission trips, taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and was a loved member of the “Young At Heart” seniors group.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers: Marion Boyd, Jason W. Boyd, and Vernon Boyd, and sister, Ella May Purdy.

Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Ruth Hoover Boyd; one son, Tim Boyd of Vale; daughters, Andrea Brittain (Mark) of Vale, and Shaaron Boyd of the home; three grandchildren, Will Boyd, Liberty Brittain, and Meredith Brittain. He is also survived by one brother, Butch Boyd (Kathy); and three sisters, Tennie Issac (Steve), Emma Magee, and Delton Cozart.

A Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, at Reepsville Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Hull officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery with military honors.

His family received friends from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to the Reepsville Baptist Church Mission Trip fund.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.

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

to other possible options for their children’s education and with this new awareness they are making different choices,” wrote report authors Drew Jacobs and Debbie Veney.

“In nearly every state, more families are choosing charter schools, homeschooling, and private school, while fewer are choosing district public schools.”

1-24: Gary Raynard Ingram, 36, 116 Whitesides St., Cherryville, was arrested at 1929 E Garrison Blvd., Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on one count of DWI.

1-24: Jaquayla Avaonny Littlejohn, 30, 300 Doc Wehunt Rd., Cherryville, was arrested at 3300 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on two (2) counts of a warrant from another agency.

1-25: Joshua Corey Sevearance, 42, 1861 St. Mark’s Church Rd., Crouse, was arrested at 425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, by GCSO deputies on three (3) counts of a warrant from another agency.

1-25: Daphne Taylor Picklesimer, 31, 105 Laura Ct., Cherryville; one count of criminal summons/simple assault.

INCIDENTS

1-20: GCPD officers report exceptionally closing/ clearing a disorderly conduct/ disturbing the peace incident at 313 Ridge Ave., Cherryville.

1-22: CPD officer reports WSOJ on unnamed subject who had outstanding warrants. Closed/cleared by arrest.

1-23: Cherryville man reports larceny, and obtaining property by false pretense by listed suspect who took a check and used it to make a fraudulent transaction. Stolen: a negotiable instrument and $285. Case is active and under further investigation.

1-24: On Jan. 23, GCPD officers report exceptionally closing/clearing a disorderly conduct/disturbing the peace incident at 313 Ridge Ave., Cherryville.

1-24: Gaston County Police D officers report closing/ clearing by arrest a misdemeanor drug/narcotic violation at 1008 E. Church St., Cherryville.

1-25: GCPD officers report exceptionally closing/ clearing a disorderly conduct/ disturbing the peace incident at 313 Ridge Ave., Cher-

ryville.

1-25: CPD officer reports serving an outstanding criminal summons. Closed/cleared by arrest.

1-25: Cherryville woman reports call for service about an overdose. Victim took undetermined amount of prescribed medication. Case status is active.

1-25: Shelby woman reports identity theft by unknown suspect who used her ID to obtain a security system. Case is active and under further investigation.

1-26: Dallas man reports burglary/B&E and larceny after B&E by unknown suspect(s) breaking into fenced lot and stealing listed tractor. Stolen: John Deere 125R tractor valued at $23,000. Case is active and under further investigation.

1-27: CPD officer reports B&E at a Cherryville address/ home by unknown subject who broke into residence. Damage was done to the front door. Case is active and under further investigation.

WRECKS

1-20: A vehicle driven by Laryssa Gayle Marshall, 17,

715 Landers Chapel Rd., Lincolnton, and a vehicle driven by Kelsey Blake Hallman, 16, 105 Wright Cir., Cherryville, were traveling west on North Houser Street when both vehicles made contact with each other. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Marshall vehicle: $2,500; to the Hallman vehicle: $1,000.

1-20: A vehicle driven by Artesha Lekel Eaves, 32, 401 Duke St., Apt. 2, Forest City, told the responding officer she was her phone for navigation and when she came around the curve left of center, she struck a vehicle driven by Kathryn Corn Withers, 69, 210 Todd Dr., Bessemer City, which was stopped in the travel lane. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Eaves vehicle: $300; to the Withers vehicle: $200.

1-23: A vehicle driven by Howard Eldridge Insley, 52, 1021 Posting Place, Shelby, was involved in a one-vehicle accident at E. First St., and N. Depot St., Cherryville. Right side of vehicle received minor damage. No injuries reported.

Previously convicted Gastonia man sentenced to prison for bank fraud

Defendant committed new offense after being granted compassionate release in 2020

CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Joseph A. DiBruno, Jr., 54, of Gastonia, N.C., was sentenced on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 to 24 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for bank fraud, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Frank D. Whitney ordered this sentence to be served consecutive to the remaining term of DiBruno’s federal prison sentence stemming from his 2008 federal fraud conviction.

Michael C. Scherck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), which oversees Charlotte, join U.S. Attorney King in making the Wednesday announcement.

According to filed documents and statements made in court, in 2008, DiBruno was sentenced to more than 21 years in prison after pleading guilty in the Western District of North Carolina to conspiracy to defraud the United States, money laundering conspiracy, and concealment of assets. On April 8, 2020, DiBruno was approved for placement on home confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, the federal Bureau of Prisons calculated DiBruno’s estimated release date as June 2025.

Court records show that, after his release to home confinement in May 2020, DiBruno obtained or attempted to obtain loans from at least two financial institutions, based on fraudulent statements and false information he submitted on loan applications. For example, on one loan application DiBruno

falsely claimed that he had been employed as Director of Data Analytics by a company listed as M.R.S., that he earned an average monthly salary of up to $8,000, and that he had lived at the residential address listed on the application for over four years, all of which information was untrue. According to court documents, between May 2020 and June 2021, DiBruno submitted at least five

fraudulent loan applications to two financial institutions seeking funds totaling over $120,000.

In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Whitney stated that DiBruno received a “windfall” under the CARES Act but got “right back in the game” and had “a serious history of committing fraud” and “never learned his lesson.”

On April 6, 2022, DiBruno pleaded guilty to

making false statements to a credit union. He is currently in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the federal Burau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The FBI and USPIS led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

GASTON COUNTY’S

6 DAY FORECAST

New phone number and Chessmates news at your CBL!

by TRACI POLLITT Cherryville Branch Library Manager

LEGO Club – Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

Family Storytime –

Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Craft & Chat – Friday, Feb. 10 at 11 a.m.

Teen Anime Club –

Thursday, Feb. 16 at 4:30 p.m. CLOSED FOR STAFF TRAINING DAY – Monday, Feb. 20

Chessmates – Monday, Feb. 27 at 4:30 p.m.

BIG NEWS! We have a new phone number!

We hated to lose our old 435-6767 number but moving to a new service provider meant changing the phone number as well. We had been doing our best to let our patrons know that this was coming and that it could happen at any time.

That time ended up being around noon, Saturday, Jan. 21.

We hope the move allows us to provide better customer service to our community. The new number is (704) 769-8190, and yes, we have small flyers here with that number on them, perfect for hanging on your refrigerator or for stashing in the car.

Other Gaston County branches have also had their numbers changed. Visit the library’s website at www. gastonlibrary.org for more information.

Our first Chessmates event was a hit! We had a good mix of skilled players as well as one person that was new to the game. Several attendees brought their own boards, which was wonderful to see. The only question was, “Could we

do this weekly?” and at this time, the answer is “No” – we have other Monday events scheduled through the end of this school year.

However, we are looking at all options and may try weekly meetings this fall. We are so happy that patrons brought this suggestion to us and that we are able to provide the space and equipment. The next meeting will be Monday, Feb. 27, at 4:30 p.m.

For all library-related questions and more, call us at our NEW NUMBER, (704) 769-8190. Or you can visit us at 605 E. Main Street during our public service hours, which are still 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday.

As always… Happy reading!

COMMUNITY TOWN HALL

Thursday, February 2, at 6:30 pm

Residents of Kings Mountain and surrounding communities are invited to attend a presentation and question and answer session on current water studies and concentrator processing for the Albemarle Kings Mountain project

Kings Mountain Little Theatre 202 S. Railroad Ave, Kings Mountain

Shrine Club News

Eighteen Nobles and Ladies attended the installation of Noble Douglass B. Garland as Potentate of Oasis Shriners on Jan. 7, 2023. The event was held at Oasis Shrine Center in Charlotte. Garland became the 128th Potentate of Oasis.

The event was a celebration of the new Potentate, but also a celebration of the accomplishments of the Cherryville Shrine Club in 2022. The Club raised more than $4,000 last year for the Shriner’s Hospital for kids. It also provided the opportunity for the club to plan for the 2023. A few great ideas were proposed by the nobles and their ladies.

Here is a synopsis of some of the projects on the agenda for 2023. The club has a grill raffle going on as we speak. The Weber Gas Grill drawing will be June 21. To purchase a raffle ticket see a Shriner (this is a club project).

Cherryville Shriner Club will also have a Golf Tournament this year and all proceeds will go the hospital. In May, Oasis and Cherryville Shrine will have their annual paper sale, with the proceeds going to the hospital as well.

Summer brings us to our Benelli Shotgun raffle, which is a club project. September brings our knife sale; these are Rada cutlery

and kitchen accessories. These make wonderful Christmas gifts. The club is sponsoring a Second Harvest Food Truck on April 3, in our community. This is a way our club can give back to a community we all truly love and appreciate. This is just the tip of the iceberg of things to come in 2023. There will be more to come in the coming months. The next time you see us with our badge of honor on (our red fez), just know that everything we do is for the kids.

We believe that Shriners are trying to change the world, one child at a time.

Someone is already putting the Cherryville Branch Library’s new phone number to good use. Ms. Traci took the call and was fast about getting the information for the caller. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Back row (L to R): Pete Craft, Bill Moss, Reid Huss, Stacey Bradley, Johnny Brown, Russell Wingfield, Steven Michael, Kelly Michael, Martha Davis, and Mark Davis. Front row (L to R): Quita Moss, Haley Craft, Doris Huss, Jennifer Bradley, Kelly Brown, Debbie Wingfield, Gina McCants, and Charlie McCants. (photo provided)

GRANDFATHER

From Page 1

rugged mountains in the Eastern U.S. – is at its most extreme, and park staff must be prepared to encounter a variety of conditions.

Many significant weather records have been set on the mountain during the colder months. Grandfather Mountain has been providing daily weather observations from the top of the mountain since August 1955. The highest winds of the year are experienced in winter, with the current record gust set at 124 mph on Feb. 25, 2019. In addition, the coldest temperature recorded on the mountain is minus 32 degrees Fahrenheit on Jan. 21, 1985.

Grandfather has seen the extremes of 24 inches of snow in one day (March 16, 1993), 55.06 inches of snow in one month (January 1977) and 128.71 inches of snow in a winter (1959-1960).

The arctic blast that hit a large portion of the country at Christmas 2022 brought frigid temperatures to the mountain. Dec. 23, 2022, saw a low temperature of minus 17 degrees and a wind chill of minus 54.2 degrees, and Christmas Eve brought a low of minus 18.2 degrees and a wind chill of minus 56.8 degrees.

Grandfather Mountain is open, weather permitting, in the winter – and while the majority of winter days at the park can be quite pleasant, the extreme-weather days require a lot of extra preparation and work from staff.

Maintenance Staff

Grandfather’s maintenance staff, along with park operations staff, is responsible for evaluating the mountain each day in winter to check conditions, determine the park’s opening status and do any needed removal of ice and snow.

In a single season, the maintenance crew pours anywhere from 12 to 18 tons of road salt to keep the roadways free of ice and safe to drive on for the mountain’s staff and guests. This does not include an extra 1,000 pounds of salt put on the walkways and habitat paths. With the addition of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery’s new concrete side-

walks with animal-paw-print designs, the maintenance crew had to find a material that works like salt but won’t damage the new concrete, is environmentally friendly and can work in Grandfather’s extreme elements.

In winter, it’s not uncommon for park staff to head to the Mile High Swinging Bridge with brooms in tow to sweep ice away after a rime ice event. After snowstorms at Grandfather, vehicles are fitted with snowplows to clear the road and allow access to the top of the park. For deep snows, a snowblower comes in handy to blow the heavy snow off the roadways rather than have it piled up on the side of the road. The crews stay ready since the mountain’s weather can change at a moment’s notice.

“Coming in day to day, you never know what the road conditions are going to be and how the mountain is going to look up top,” Gideon Hughes, maintenance manager for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, said. “One day the weather could start with rain, turn cold and then transition to freezing rain, and then we have to work quickly to get everything salted. You never know what’s going to happen in winter on Grandfather.”

Animal habitats

For the mountain’s animal habitat keepers, winter preparations begin months in advance as they ready the resident black bears for their winter slumber. This includes carefully monitoring the bears’ diets and gradually increasing their fat supply in late summer and early fall, before limiting their food during winter, a process that mimics the natural fluctuations a bear would experience in the wild. Grandfather’s bears go into a state of torpor, or light sleep, in the winter.

“The bears do not go through a typical hibernation, per se,” Christie Tipton, animal habitats curator for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, said. “It is not uncommon to see one of the bears sleepily wandering around the habitat during the winter, whereas the otters are actually more active in the winter and sometimes like to dig tunnels in their habitat after

a snowfall.”

While the otters may enjoy the freezing temperatures, the harsh conditions can sometimes cause problems by freezing the animals’ water supply. Habitat staff keep this from happening by breaking up ice that may form over water sources inside the habitats and ensuring that lines that supply heat to these water sources remain operational.

No matter the conditions, Grandfather’s habitat staff has to ensure that the bears, elk, eagles, cougars and otters have access to food and water during the winter, even if the habitats are inaccessible by car and the keepers need to hike up the mountain in the snow or ice to get to the animals.

Weather reporting

While technology over the years has brought improved automated weather-reporting equipment to Grandfather Mountain, a number of park staff are still responsible for measuring and recording weather totals at the top of the mountain, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Entrance Gate. This sometimes means venturing out into extreme conditions to take a daily reading.

“We are very intentional about the weather measurements that are taken on the mountain and do everything in our power to take these observations at the same time every day, regardless of how extreme the weather may be, in order to maintain consistency in the data,” John Caveny, director of education and natural resources for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, said.

Staff tasked with recording the weather measure rain totals and snow depth in designated locations, calculate snow meltto-water equivalents and, at times, have to remove ice from weather equipment in order to keep it functional.

“High-wind events will often blow all of the snow off the designated site at the top of the mountain or cause rain totals to be misleading,” Caveny said. “By taking measurements at the bottom, middle and top of the mountain and comparing them to each other, we can get a big-picture view of how different the weather can be across these different gradients. Through the long-term collection of this data, we build a picture of what the specific

climate of Grandfather Mountain is.”

Trails Mountain staff also maintain the park’s trail system to keep it accessible during the winter, although it is not uncommon for some of the rockier trails, such as Black Rock and the Grandfather Trail, to close due to the formation of ice.

Trail maintenance is a continual process on the mountain but picks up especially in the fall, considering that winter weather can wreak havoc on a trail when not monitored properly. If brush is not cleared and if drainage on a trail is not working properly, a trail could become inaccessible for months after the first snowfall or severe winter storm.

“If we don’t clean drainages well in the fall and make the necessary removals, then

the winter destroys trails and makes them inaccessible,” H. Patton III, natural resource management specialist for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, said. “It’s work that requires continuous monitoring and upkeep.”

Hikers should be prepared to encounter ice any time the trails are open during the winter months and even into early spring.

Visiting Grandfather Mountain in the Winter

While the weather atop Grandfather is some of the most extreme and fast-changing in the Eastern U.S., between the periods of wind and snow, you’ll find many sunny days perfect for hikes and visiting the park.

The winter season is generally quieter, with more opportunities for magical mile-high experiences. Cold temperatures

bring clearer views – and even the chance to see the Charlotte skyline more than 80 miles away on some days. The new Wilson Center for Nature Discovery offers the perfect place to warm up with a dozen interactive exhibits, a film about Grandfather’s history and ecology in an ADA-accessible theater and homemade soups, burgers and wraps at Mildred’s Grill. More tips for visiting in the winter can be found at www.grandfather.com/winter-visits.

In the winter, guests are encouraged to call (828) 7334337 or check www.grandfather.com before visiting the park to learn about the day’s conditions and opening status. While the staff works very hard to make the park accessible, there are days when all or portions of the mountain are closed because of adverse conditions.

EMS

From Page 1 Rd., two (2) housing subdivisions, and the I-85/US 74 interchange area.”

Chief Harmon spoke and noted he had envisioned a need for an EMS first response by his fire department.

“Chief Lamphiear and I began discussions a while back (September 2019) on the needs and plans for making our vision come about; to make it a reality,” said Chief Harmon. Harmon noted the response times in the Gaston County portion of Kings Mountain and the western Gaston County area had “…the longest EMS response time of anywhere in the county.”

To that end, Chief Harmon said Gaston County “…facilitated the implementation of the first responder program by providing radios and dispatch services for calls in Gaston County.”

He added that KMFD then began “…to respond to all

medical emergencies in the Gaston County portion of the city in 2022.”

In the department’s media release, Chief Harmon also noted the primary reason for locating the new GEMS QRV at the KMFD station (which is just inside Cleveland County) are as follows: “1.) quick access to Canterbury Road industry and the housing developments of Linwood and Northwoods;

2.) quick access to I-85 northbound and the area of Exit 10; and 3.) addressing this area as the next longest EMS response time in Gaston County.”

Harmon continued, “Additionally, the City of Kings Mountain welcomes this partnership and will allow GEMS to room-in at no cost.”

The two entities both acknowledge they “enjoy a great relationship,” with it being noted in the media release that, “KMFD and GEMS have an excellent working partnership.”

It is further noted that, “The GEMS QRV is the next step in the expansion and enhancement of services to the resi-

dents, visitors, industry, and taxpayers of Gaston County in this area.”

Chief Harmon, in referring to the KMFD first responder program, said the new GEMS QRV is, “…the icing on the cake.”

Chief Lamphiear thanked everyone for coming out as did Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler, who also thanked Gaston County Manager, Dr. Kim Eagle and all the Gaston and Cleveland County dignitaries and officials present for the ceremony. Mayor Neisler also praised the men and women of the KMFD and GEMS for what they do to serve others.

Chief Lamphiear also noted the new QRV was “a bridge to the future” for KMFD and Gaston County.

Gaston County Commissioner Bob Hovis noted how “public safety is the number one priority for the county and its residents, adding it is Gaston County’s honor to place the new QRV at KMFD to serve the people in the county and the area.

Gaston County EMS Chief Mark Lamphiear addresses the crowd at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 presentation of the GEMS QRV to the Kings Mountain Fire Department. (photos by Michael Powell)

The GEMS Honor Guard files in for the Posting of the Colors at the Presentation of the Colors at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 presentation ceremony of the GEMS QRV to the Kings Mountain Fire Department.

The EMS professionals who will assume the duties of QRV Unit 131; left to right, are: Paramedics Jake Hoffman, Nick Wilkinson, Josh Helton, and Selina Rodriguez.

GMSF Backhoe Pushing Snow – Grandfather’s maintenance staff, along with park operations staff, is responsible for evaluating the mountain each day in winter to check conditions, determine the park’s opening status and do any needed removal of ice and snow. After

snowstorms, they work to clear the road and allow access to the top of the park.

(photo by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation)

“God is Love” and His love is perfect!

“If I do not have love, I am only a noisy bell or a crashing cymbal. ” – 1 Corinthians 13:1

During the month of February, we will hear the word ‘love’ mentioned many times. This scripture from Paul’s epistle to the Corinthians tells us that without love, we are no more than a loud noise in the ears of the Lord. Love is not just something God does, it’s who He is. Love is God’s greatest character, and we were created to be like Him

in every way. First John 4:16 tells us, “God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God in them.”

We can also see how God has demonstrated His love by creating you to love Him and then He sent His only Son to earth to die for you so that you would have eternal life with Him.

Every good thing you have is a gift from God and is given because He loves you! But, to really love others, you first need to understand how much God loves you.

First John 4:19 tells us, “We love because He first loved us.” You can’t just

Intimacy With God

know about God’s love through head knowledge.

True agape love requires that you receive a personal experience of God’s love through the Savior, Jesus Christ. It’s not enough to simply give a definition of love, you must taste and try His Love for yourself. His love is perfect, and you can’t do anything to earn more of it.

You can’t hide from it, and you can’t outrun it. Don’t ignore His love because His love includes forgiveness for everything we’ve ever done wrong. His love replaces our guilt, shame, and resentment.

The most amazing part of His love is when you fully understand that God loves you completely and unconditionally just the way you

are, yet will change everything about you through His Love. Then and only then will you become secure in the truth that you cannot make God stop loving you. If you have ever had a doubt about His love, I would tell you to look at the evidence of His character which has been seen throughout history of mankind.

You will see clearly that God has never stopped loving you, and He has never stopped hoping that you will turn back to Him, even if you have walked away for a while. The Bible says in Nehemiah 9:31, “But in Your great mercy You did not put an end to them or abandon them, for You are a gracious and merciful God.” Romans 8:39

goes on to say, “There is no power above us or beneath us – no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God’s passionate love, which is lavished upon us through our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One!”

Once you’re secure in God’s unconditional love, you’ll be able to love others the way God loves you. You’ll be more patient and less angry, more thoughtful, and willing to serve others. As you draw closer to God and begin to experience His love in your own life, your spirit will become full and start to overflow from your life into everyone you meet.

May the love of God abound in 2023!

Cherryville Area Places of Worship

DANYALE PATTERSON

If you had a chance to have lunch with any celebrity, dignitary, or historical figure, who would you choose? I wouldn’t mind hanging out with Hariet Tubman to discuss all the adventures she encountered to free several people from slavery. Although she would be an interesting person to fellowship with, there is one even more intriguing than her - The Creator of the Universe. As an artist he designed the beautiful sunset, as a musician he developed frequencies and sounds that are melodious, as a lover he gave his life for his bride and the list goes on to infinity of his power, creativity and awesomeness. Yet he desires to be with us. King David couldn’t fathom how such a powerful Being could want a relationship with such a weak and sinful humanity. In Psalm 8:4 (NLT), he asks, “What are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?”

He’s at the door

Is it possible to have a close relationship with the Great I AM THAT I AM? I shout from the rooftops with a resounding, “Yes!” God not only loves us, but enjoys connecting and interacting with us. He invites us to fellowship with him. Revelation 3:20 (NLT) says,“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” He is not a God that is far away, but is close as the air we breathe. We have been summoned to an intimate relationship with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Will you accept?

First Place

If you accept the opportunity to take a new or closer walk with God, please be aware that he requires a couple of things, First, he wants all of you. Deuteronomy 6:5 (AMP) says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and mind and with all your soul and with all your strength [your entire being].” Secondly, he doesn’t want to share your heart with idols. Idols are things that people adore or worship more than God. There are many things that fight for first place in our lives eg. money, people, position, and even self. However, when we lay those things down and put God first, we experience a love and peace that is amazing.

PRAY THIS PRAYER: “Being in your presence is refreshing O God. I have made you my home, and I will tell the world how good you are to me. I praise you for being the one who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth. I am always blown away by how much you love me and that I have given this wonderful opportunity to know you intimately. Forgive me for allowing other things to get in my way of seeking your face. I am honored that you are always waiting patiently for me to enter into your presence and spend quality time with you. I love 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.

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

Cherryville New Year’s Shooters meeting School Choice Fair

Rusty Wise, Secretary, Cherryville New Year’s Shooters Inc., said that the group’s 2023 meeting/events schedule for the Cherryville New Year’s Shooters is: On Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, at 6 p.m., will be the 2023 Annual Host Dinner, at Cherryville American Legion Post 100.

The 2023 School Choice Fair will be held at the Gastonia Conference Center on Friday, Feb. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, Feb. 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is an opportunity for students and parents to drop in and learn about the 22-school choice/ magnet school programs that are available in Gaston County Schools.

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

REV. KEITH HUSS Pastor – Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Cherryville

Gastonia names Conard new police chief

The City of Gastonia has named Interim Police Chief Trent Conard as the next permanent Police Chief for the Gastonia Police Department (GPD).

Chief Conard joined the GPD in 1996 and brings more than 28 years of experience to his new position.

Conard was named Interim Police Chief in October 2022. Chief Conard will continue to lead the daily operations of the Police Department and the work of over 200

FAIR

From Page 1

Students in the Public Service Academy learn about what it takes to become a police officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician (EMT), lawyer/judge, teacher, and leader in municipal/county government. Field trips, guest speakers, community service opportunities, and the teacher cadet program give students an up-close and hands-on approach to finding out what it means to serve the public.

Each year, up to 50 sixth graders and 50 ninth graders (from outside the Cherryville attendance area) are admitted to participate in the Public Service Academy. Students who live inside the Cherryville attendance area

can already take advantage of the Academy, and the program is designed to make an easy transition for students going from John Chavis Middle to Cherryville High School.

Below is a list of all school choice/magnet school programs that are offered in Gaston County Schools:

■ Elementary Schools Gifted and Talented Academy @ Pleasant Ridge Elementary School Hawks Nest STEAM Academy

Leadership Academy @ Costner Elementary School

Performing Arts Academy @ Pinewood Elementary School (new)

■ Middle Schools Career Academy @ Southwest Middle School

Career Academy @ York Chester Middle School

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th day of December, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of CARYL B. AUSTELL; AKA, CARYL BEAM AUSTELL, 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 McIntyre Elder Law in Shelby, NC on or before the May 1st, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 1st day of February, 2023.

Elizabeth Austell Shuford, Executrix

Estate of: Caryl B. Austell; aka, Caryl Beam Austell

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150 CE (2/1, 08, 15 & 22/2023)

dedicated women and men who serve the community in sworn and civilian positions.

The City advertised the position nationwide and received over 40 applications.

There were eight candidates interviewed and four selected to participate in an extensive assessment center conducted by Centralina Regional Council. The assessment panel consisted of police chiefs and city managers from around the Charlotte region, along with some Gastonia community leaders.

“After an extensive na-

Gifted and Talented Academy @ Cramerton Middle School

Leadership Academy @ W.C. Friday Middle School Public Service Academy @ John Chavis Middle School STEAM Academy @ Stanley Middle School

Technology and Industrial Engineering Academy @ Bessemer City Middle School

■ High Schools

Career Academy @ Hunter Huss High School

Collegiate Prep Academy @ Forestview High School

Gaston Early College High School

Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences Health Sciences Academy @ East Gaston High School

Highland School of Technology

iAccelerate Academy @ Ashbrook High School

Leadership Academy @ North Gaston High School Public Service Academy @ Cherryville High School

tionwide search, it was clear that Interim Chief Conard was the right choice to continue leading the GPD,” said City Manager Michael Peoples. “His depth and breadth of experience in law enforcement, internal organizational and management skills, and passion for the communities of Gastonia will serve the Department and our citizens well as he steps into this new role.”

Conard was promoted to Assistant Police Chief from Captain in October 2020. His service with the GPD includes being Commander

Technology and Industrial Engineering Academy @ Bessemer City High School

■ Online Learning Gaston County Virtual Academy (for grades K-12)

Beginning with the 2023-2024 academic year, the newest addition to the school choice lineup is the Performing Arts Academy at Pinewood Elementary School. Also, a

of the Criminal Investigations Division, Commander of the Special Situations Unit which includes SWAT, Bomb Squad, Crisis Negotiators, Mobile Field Force, and the Mobile Command. He was responsible for creating and implementing the Police Training Officer program for the GPD in 2005. Since the program was implemented, over 180 officers have been trained in the program. He received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Montreat College and is a North Carolina certified instructor and nationally

cybersecurity program is being added to the Health Sciences Academy at East Gaston High School.

Typically, students enter a school choice program when they will be in kindergarten, sixth grade, or ninth grade; however, some programs have limited space available at other grade levels. Students in Gaston County Schools as well as students who currently attend a private school, charter school, home school, or

certified Problem Based Learning instructor. Conard is a graduate of the West Point Leadership Program and also attended the FBI Command College.

“I look forward to serving the citizens of Gastonia as Police Chief and leading a department of dedicated public servants who share my passion to protect and serve through direct and intentional community involvement inclusive to all residents and visitors of our diverse city,” said Chief Conard.

virtual school may apply now for the 2023-2024 academic year. For more information about each school choice option and to submit an online application, visit the School Choice webpage for Gaston County Schools: www.gaston. k12.nc.us/schoolchoice.

The deadline to apply is Friday, March 3 at 5:00 p.m. The student placement lottery will be held in April.

Having

of

Estate

Addie

Jones aka Addie Sue Parton, 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 Administratrix on or before the 27th day of April, 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 25th day of January, 2023

Diana C. Stroupe (FKA Hughes)

113 Early Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086 CE (1//25, 2/1, 2/8 & 2/15/2023)

TRENT CONARD Gastonia Police Chief

Cherryville Ironmen varsity men beat BCHS ’Jackets, currently 10-10 overall

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The CHS Ironmen basketball teams traveled to Shelby to battle the Golden Lions on Tuesday, Jan. 24, then away again against rivals Bessemer City on Friday, Jan. 27, on their way to finishing out the month of January. Their last January game was Tuesday, Jan. 31, against the Burns Bulldogs, played at Nixon Gym. Senior Night is Friday, Feb. 3 as they play Highland Tech at Nixon, with the last game of the 2023 regular season schedule being an away game at the Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy Gryphons on Friday, Feb. 10.

Against Shelby

In this away conference game against the Golden Lions of Shelby, the Ironmen varsity men lost 75-57, while the Lady Ironmen lost by a score of 65-21 to the Lady Lions.

Against BCHS

The CHS Ironmen bas-

Jackets teams in conference matchups that saw the Ironmen JV and varsity men get wins over their rivals. The Lady Ironmen, in spite of a valiant battle on the court were unable to control the Lady ’Jackets, who won their game 71-27.

Taking the court first on the night were Coach Antonio Griggs’ young JV squad. The easily handled a poorly shooting ’Jackets JV squad, downing them by a score of 68-57.

The Lady Ironmen came out after them and found themselves overmatched by a fast and accurate Lady Jackets team of aggressive, hothanded shooters.

The Lady Ironmen were led in this one by Gabbie McCorkle (8 pts.), Krista Davis (6 pts.) and Kate Bookout (5 pts.). Rounding out the points for the ladies were Laila Davis, Regan Hovis, and Raylei Gidney, with two points apiece.

The men’s varsity Iron-

lowjackets squad that did not want to admit defeat, managed to get the win against their cross-county rivals by a score of 83-78.

The Ironmen were led in scoring by senior Numarius Good who scored a whopping 30 points for the night!

He was trailed by Carson Kelly (18 pts.) and Landon Hahn (14 pts.) and Nate Bookout (11 pts.). These were the only Ironmen to score in double figures against the highly-touted BCHS team. Darrien Floyd, who fouled out, scored 8 points and Chance Hunt scored two (2) points.

As noted earlier, the Ironmen played Burns at home on Tuesday, Jan. 31, and will be home on Friday, Feb. 3, taking on Highland Tech. That date is also Senior Night for the Ironmen teams.

The last game on the schedule is Friday, Feb. 10, and is an away game at Thomas Jefferson. February 13-17 is the conference tour-

Talon Dalton of the JV Ironmen takes a foul shot at the BCHS game last week. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Junior varsity head coach Antonio Griggs gives his men a pep talk and more instructions on their way to their win over the BCHS JV Yellow Jackets.

Rayshawn Sewell, of the CHS JV Ironmen, goes up for the layup in the JV’s game against

Lady Ironman Raylei Gydney goes up for the tip-in in the opening minutes of the CHS/BCHS ladies’ game at Bessemer City High last Friday night.

Ironman Nate Bookout passes the ball to teammate Darrien Floyd as Ironman Numarius

Good and a host of BCHS Yellow Jackets look on.

Ironman senior Landon Hahn shoots a free throw against the BCHS Yellow Jackets in last Friday night’s away game.

Shelby, NC 28150.

PART TIME MUSICAL

WORSHIP LEADER. We are looking for a part time

Worship Leader to lead our congregation in Sunday morning musical worship.

A complete description can be obtained from our church office by calling 704-434-6771. Please send resume to SRBC, PO Box 297, Mooresboro, NC 28114. (704) 434-6771 sandyrunoffice@gmail.com

NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-

ERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR

ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

POSITION AVAILABLE FOR Lead Person for Commercial Landscaping Company located in Kings Mountain, NC. Must be Mature & Seasoned. A valid drivers license is required and have experience hauling trailer and equipment. Travel is required every day with early mornings and some late afternoons, especially in spring and summer months. There are no overnight stays. This position will start immediately. Only serious inquiries need apply. Please send email with resume to zerobugs@bellsouth.net or leave a voicemail at 704-734-5370 and your call will be returned.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/

GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704-473-4299. (704) 473-4299

ONE ON ONE CARE. Is hiring for Direct Support Professional/ DSP for full/part time on 2nd shift. Transport experience recommended not required. Apply in person at 203 Lee St, Shelby, NC.

EXPERIENCED AUTOMO-

TIVE MECHANIC NEEDED. We have full-time auto mechanic position available. Must provide own tools and have a valid driver license. R&D Automotive in Earl, NC. (704) 482-9789

BUSINESS SERVICES

JAMES BALLARD PAINT-

ING SERVICE. Paint Kitchen Cabinets only. Pre-estimated price. References available. 828-429-7511 or 828-4293743. Ask for James.

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

RAGE 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

HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE AGENTS, need a little work? Jackson Corbin Property Services, LLC. Specializing in small jobs/punch list. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, tile, etc. Need a hand for a day or two?

Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

CONCRETE SPECIALTIES. Driveways, patios, slabs, sidewalks, Bobcat work. Kelvin Carter 864-590-8054.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD. Seasoned 95% Oak, 1/4 cord load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704-435-3970 or 704-4583081.

WIDE ELECTRIC CHAIR. Like new. 13,000 watt

KENMORE DRYER FOR SALE. In good condition. 450. (704) 484-3128

OLD AUTO PARTS CABINETS

$100. I have several different cabinets and display racks, Can send pictures by phone (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

WANT TO BUY

LAND WANTED, 10+ ACRES. In Blacksburg, SC.

To build small home. Call (704) 576-7022

WE BUY Cars, Trucks, Vans. Running or not. Lost titles or have titles. We take over payments. 704-524-3387.

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

BLANTON’S TREE SERVICE LLC. TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL SERVICES, STORM CLEANUP, LANDSCAPING AND SMALL GRADING JOBS FULLY INSURED. CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE TODAY! (704) 692-4203

TREE, BRUSH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL. Also land clearing, dump truck service, driveways and gravel hauling. 828-2890742.

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 532-1587

NEW RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING SERVICES are now available. Badger Plumbing is now open to service you at reasonable rates. Call 704-524-3387.

EB MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & reliable. (704) 300-2332

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

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

INSIDE YARD SALE! At Mooresboro School Gym Sat., Feb 4th, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. $10 Setup Fee. Bring your own tables/ display. Setup is 7am-8am. “Bring your stuff and junk !” FREE ADMISSION! **CASH

ONLY!!** for Questions: Call Keith (828) 351-8822 or Call Mickey (828) 447-7231 located at 308 Main St, Mooresboro, NC 28114

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

INDOOR YARD SALE Every Saturday, 9AM-2PM. Pampas-grass, toys, clothes, kitchen items, more. 1237 Piney Ridge Road, Forest City, NC 28043

ANTIQUES

UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Tues.-Sat. 11am-4pm. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on FB.

No Credit Check! Daily Cash Specials! Give use call at J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

BEAUTIFUL CEMETERY PLOTS, GASTON MEMORIAL. 3 Available. Will sell one at a time. Need to sell. Make offer. 919-272-5503, call/text.

FLAMBEAU COMPOUND BOW CASE. 10 Hunter carbon arrows with release and broad heads. Best offer. Call 704-6660786, leave message

4 RIMS AND TIRES. For Chevy S10. Kumho Solus 205/75/15R. Excellent tread. $250. 704-7694091.

GUNS FOR SALE. 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, 38, 45/410 Taurus. Call for appointment to see. 828-289-8255.

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. Does not run, Parts only. (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 MORGAN’S FIREWOOD SERVICE. Green oak. Cut, split and delivered. $75. thrown off. $85. stacked off. 828-395-0758

2022 ENVY NEIGHBORHOOD CART. Road ready, blinkers, brake lights, headlights, horn, power steering, must sell. $9500. 828-980-1187, for pictures/details.

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

Knives Coins, Collectibles & Antiques located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

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. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

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

BUYING COMICS & VINYL RECORDS. Looking for 1950s-80s Comics in any condition. I want to buy your comics that are sitting and collecting dust and taking up room as well as old Rock and Roll records. Cleveland and Gaston County, Kings Mountain, Shelby and Charlotte areas. Call Tim 661-312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@ live.com

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

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? I PURCHASE UN-

WANTED 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) 692-1006 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

FARM & GARDEN

PIGS 7 WKS OLD.

WINSTON CIGARETTES

ELECTRIC CLOCK $500. Call or email: (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

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.

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 APPLIANCES FOR SALE. Refrigerator-$50, Washer/ Dryer-$200. Everything works good. 704-300-4132. Leave a message.

INNOVA LONGARM 26” ON 12’ table. Innova Longarm 26” with 12’ table and Pantovision. (828) 403-8667 suzy981flute@ gmail.com

LENOVO YOGA TOUCHSCREEN LAPTOP. $650. Runs Windows 11. Has only been used a few times. (704) 487-6771

SHIPPING CRATE $35.00 I have wood shipping crates for sale with lids. I can send pictures of them. (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth. net 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

NEW 6X12 TRAILER “RENT TO OWN” No Credit

KNITTING MACHINE FOR SALE. Can manufacture the following products and more. Compression tube socks, compression products for arms, legs and wrist where ever pain exist. Beanie caps, Scarfs, Toboggans, Banners, small flags, stockings, leg warmers, mittens, Knit cuffs for garments. Logo’s can be put on all products for your organization. You manufacture the products or we can do it for you. Contact: Jimmie, 704-750-6102.

SEASONED SMALL STOVE WOOD. Cut, split and delivered. All seasoned or mixed with green oak. $75. 828-395-0758.

MONITOR HEATER WITH TANK& STAND $700 OBO. Feed barrels $20, Solid top plastic & metal barrels $10, Totes $75, Burn barrels $15, Metal cages $25. Call Jeff in Hickory before 6pm (828) 3274782

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

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

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

Cherryville Post 100 announcer Eaker a 2022 NC Legion Hall of Fame inductee

Event is scheduled for May 6, 2023

by RICHARD WALKER

https://carolinassportshub.com/

A date and site has been chosen for the North Carolina American Legion Hall of Fame class of 2022 inductions that include two Gaston County inductees and one from Lincoln County.

Cherryville Baptist Church will host the event on May 6 at 6 p.m. and tickets are $20 each for a ceremony in which

Danny Eaker of Cherryville Post 100, Phil Tate of Belmont Post 144 and Bruce Bolick of Denver Post 455 will be inducted along with Gerald Young of Charlotte Post 262, Ric Cook of Davidson County Post 8 and the late Benedict “Benjamin” Lee of Calabash Post 503.

It marks the second straight year Cherryville has hosted the banquet and the 11th time in the event’s history it has been held in Gaston and Cleveland Counties: Gastonia hosted the 1970 and

CLASSIFIEDS CONT’D

FROM PAGE 8

PETS & LIVESTOCK

2004 inductions, Cherryville has hosted the 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986, 1992, 2021 and 2022 inductions, Kings Mountain hosted the 1972 induction and Shelby hosted the 2011 induction.

Bolick, who played Legion baseball for the old Paw Creek-Mount Holly team in the early 1960s, started the Denver Post 455 program in 1990. Now called the Lincoln County Cardinals, Bolick has guided the team to 284 victories with Post 455 and has 290 Legion coaching victories overall.

Eaker, who played Le-

PETS & LIVESTOCK

gion baseball for Cherryville Post 100 in the early 1960s, has been the public address announcer for Cherryville High School and Cherryville Legion baseball games since 1985. The current chaplain for Post 100, Eaker also has done radio broadcasts of countless Legion games, including the American Legion World Series in 2003, 2008 and every year since 2011.

Tate, who played Legion baseball for Belmont Post 144 in the early 1960s, coached Belmont, Charlotte Post 262 and Gaston Braves Post 144266 during his coaching career; He led Belmont to 105 victories, Post 262 to 60 wins and Post 144266’s inaugural 1997 team to 13 victories.

Bolick is the first inductee in Post 455 history, while Tate will become Belmont’s seventh and Eaker will become Cherryville’s 16th.

The N.C. American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame began in 1967.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CHS wrestlers win their weight classes at recent CHS match

The 2023 Southern Piedmont conference 1A-2A Conference tournament was held at Cherryville High School Tuesday, Jan. 24. The results were as follows: sixth place – Bessemer City with 40 points; in fifth place – Shelby with 93 points; in fourth place – Thomas Jefferson with 131 points, in third place – Burns with 155 and a half points; in second place – East Gaston with 165 points, and in first place with 174 points ¬– the Cherryville Ironmen, led by

PETS

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. CKC Registered, shots & worming UTD. These are big healthy pups that will respond to training well and make good family protectors. $300 ea. (704) 466-3135

CKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES $600. I have 9 beautiful CKC German Shepherd puppies that will be ready for a new family on 1/26/23. They were born 11/28/22. They have all been checked and dewormed by a Veterinarian. First shots scheduled along with another checkup at the Veterinarian as well. Registration papers included. Dame and sire are on site. The dame is 75 lbs and Sable. The sire is 110 lbs and traditional black and brown. They have been handled and socialized since birth. Please call or text for more information and pictures. (828) 305-1014

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. PURE BRED GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES

SEEKING NEW HOMES. PARENTS ARE AKC REGISTERED (AND BEAUTIFUL) AND OUR FAMILY PETS. PUPPIES ARE 9 WEEKS OLD AND READY TO BE YOUR BEST FRIEND. $600 EITHER GENDER. LOCATED IN KINGS MOUNTAIN, 704-974-3296 SONJAT1@ YAHOO.COM

10 WEEK OLD CHIHUAHUA PUPPY. $350. Pit bull puppies, 6 weeks old. $450 each. Call or text 704-974-8055 or 704-4666983.

TOY AND MINI AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS. Male and female, assorted colors, some blue-eyed. Shots, wormed, fully vetted. 828-289-6756.

ADULT QUAIL $5 EACH. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Pre order Bob Whites.

Hatching Eggs. Laying Hens Available. 704-476-9943

FARRIER SERVICE SINCE 1990. TRIMS, HOT/COLD SHOEING & CORRECTIVE WORK AT REASONABLE PRICES. SERVING UPSTATE SC/NC DISTANCE TRAVEL FOR MULTIPLE HORSES ONLY. PLEASE TEXT OR LEAVE VOICEMAIL FOR QUICKER RESPONSE. 864-431-5108 (864) 431-5108 MICHELLECROCKER310@YAHOO.COM

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

LABRADOODLE PUPS. F1B Beautiful cream, black or black/white standard size Labradoodles. Call or text 704-974-6790. Parents shown in pics. (704) 9746790 susan.mccraw55@ gmail.com

BOSTON TERRIER PUPS FOR SALE. CKC, 6 weeks old, shots and worming up-to-date. Parents on site. $700. 803-2226730.

AKC REGISTERED, PRE CHIPPED AKITA PUPS. Black & white, DOB 12/15/22. $1000 each. Looking for good homes. Available 1/25/23. (704) 6783918

FULL BLOODED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. No papers. Parents on site. Black and tan. Ready for pick-up 1-21-23. Call 828-748-9614 or 828-4608187.

AKC/CKC REGISTERED BOXER PUPPIES. Taking $200 deposits now. Total price $900. Ready 2nd week of Feb. 3 males, 4 females. (704) 4773900

LABRADOODLE F1B PUPS. Beautiful black labradoodle pups available January 20th. First puppy shots. (704) 6926713 paintedshilohfarm@yahoo.com

CARS & TRUCKS 2001 DODGE CARAVAN Handicap accessible. Power ramp, A/C, CD, good condition. 173,000 miles. $4,000. 828448-5008.

head wrestling coach Matt Powers, assisted by coach Brandon Shull. Said Coach Powers, “On the way to winning the tournament Cherryville was led by eight of our 12 wrestlers. Meddling for finishing in first place at 126, Abram Avery; at 132, Robbie Bowman; at 152, Chase Miller; and at 170, Kam Bolin.”

Coach Powers also noted that, at 145 pounds, John David Curtis of Burns was selected as the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the

tournament.

East Gaston and Cherryville, by winning the 2A and 1A sides of the conference, were in action on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023 in the first round of the team State duals. Round 2 was Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Other wrestling tournament dates run from Friday, Feb. 3 through Saturday, Feb. 18, and are all scheduled for either Mitchell (all Western 1A teams/individuals) or Greensboro Coliseum (all state qualifiers).

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT. In Shelby, NC. 1 to 3 bedrooms renting from $525.00 to $825.00 per month. Call Today. 704-554-8861. frontdesk@ kluttspropertymanagement. com MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 473-4299

MOBILE HOMES & APARTMENTS. In Kings Mountain. P. Call (704) 739-4417

BEAUTIFUL HYPO-ALLERGENIC CAVACHON PUPPIES 2 MALES 2 FEMALES. Available now. The unique Cavachon breed is known for its intelligence, friendliness and easy-to-care-for nature. They are hypoallergenic with very little shedding. Sought after for their loyalty and calm temperament, they are excellent comfort dogs. Small, easy to hold and carry, they travel well. Requires little exercise. CKC registered parents on site. $2800.00. shots/papers/take home kit.

(704) 466-1920 paburkhart@ gmail.com

CHOCOLATE LAB PUPPIES FOR SALE. Male and female. AKC. Gentle/teachable. Parents on site. Champion bloodline. Vet checked. 704-9148241, KM.

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES FOR

SALE. 1 Female, 5 Males, $150-$200. 6 wks. Ready to go to good home. Cell: 704974-2234 or 704-538-0633.

WEST GERMANY GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES AKC REGISTERED BLACK & RED SHOW LINE PUPPIES FOR SALE. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A DOG THAT’S LOYAL, CONFIDENT, GREAT TEMPERAMENT, AND READY TO PROTECT YOUR HOME, THESE ARE THE DOGS FOR YOU. THE DAM AND SIRE HAVE EXCELLENT PEDIGREE. (864) 590-5375 THEHONEYBEECONTAINER@MSN.COM

CANE CORSO PUPPIES FOR SALE I HAVE NINE PUPPIES I C C F CERTIFIED, TAILS CROPPED, DEW CLAWS ARE REMOVED. A PUPPY WOULD BE A GREAT ADDITION TO YOUR FAMILY. CALL TO RESERVE YOUR PUP TODAY. ASK FOR JEFFERY (919) 763-4919

GIBBSJEFFERY59@GMAIL. COM

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

1996 FORD ECONOLINE CARGO VAN $2400.00 firm. Call for information Monday through Friday 9am-3pm. 828919-0688. 2009 TOYOTA TACOMA 380,000 miles, $7500.00. All highway miles, excellent condition inside and out. New tires, battery, alternator. All maintenance documented. Toolbox included. (704) 6340553 bkingery@carolina. rr.com

2013 JEEP PATRIOT 112,609 miles, Call for Price, (704) 748-1890 sales@ctcauto-

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

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

4322 POLKVILLE ROAD, SHELBY, NC. 2 bedroom 1 bath. Rent $1025, Deposit $1025, Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

1041 CASAR BELWOOD ROAD, Casar NC. 2 bedroom, 1 bath. Rent $700, Deposit $700. Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

3 BR HOUSE FOR RENT in Shelby, NC. $1,000/mth. Couples only. Call 864-805-0174 for more information.

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723

135-9

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 704487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

HICKORY CREEK APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS. (62 and older), disabled (50 and older). Shelby. Now taking applications for waiting list. 418 East Warren Street, Shelby. (704) 487-6354

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

OUT OF AREA

4 BR MOBILE HOME in Gaffney, SC. $1,400/mth. Couples only. Call 864-805-0174 for more information.

& LIVESTOCK

Veteran Cherryville Post 100 Announcer Danny Eaker

Suzie Crews, Officer Wrenn, Judy Ellington, Pete Craft, Jane and Roger Edgington, and Officer Bennett. (photo provided)

WINN

From Page 1

Companies CEO Gilbert Winn and a host of state, county, and local officials to celebrate the beginning of work at Osage Mill, located only 30 minutes from Charlotte in the fast-growing region of western Gaston County, where new rental housing for working families is needed to sustain economic growth.

“The Osage Mill created hundreds of jobs in Bessemer City when it was built 125 years ago. We’re excited to continue its legacy as an economic engine by transforming this iconic building into modern homes for those who will drive the area’s economy in the 21st century,” said Gilbert Winn. “We value our partnership with North Carolina’s housing and economic leaders on this important effort and look forward to the project’s completion near the end of 2024.”

Led by the WinnDevelopment Vice President Aimee McHale and Senior Project Director Laura Manville, the historic adaptive reuse of the mill will preserve the building’s iconic exterior while creating 12 three-bedroom apartments, 77 two-bedroom units and 50 one-bedroom units for households earning 60 percent of the Area Median Income.

“Bessemer City is ready to excel our economic position in the Charlotte Region with the completion of the Osage Mill Renovation Project. This project will amplify our community’s position for positive growth, assist with supporting local small businesses, and provide needed housing for our ever-growing workforce with other multi-million-dollar investments taking place, said Mayor Smith. “Bessemer City is growing in a positive way in all directions. This project specifically will act as a catalyst that will transform the community and revive a historic landmark that speaks to the City’s history, culture, and identity. The City is only getting started with revitalization.” Financing for the project is supported by tax-exempt bonds from the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) and issued by the Gastonia

Housing Authority. “The agency is proud to support the future redevelopment of Osage Mill,” said NCHFA Executive Director Scott Farmer.

“This development serves as a prime example of how adaptive reuse of existing sites can create safe and affordable homes for families in North Carolina.”

Bank of America is providing construction and permanent financing, as well as equity under the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, the federal Historic Tax Credit program and North Carolina’s Mill Rehabilitation Tax Credit program.

“Bank of America is proud to be the lead financer of this innovative development that repurposes previously vacant space to provide muchneeded affordable housing in greater Charlotte,” said Mary Thompson, senior vice president of community development banking at Bank of America. “We are pleased to work with WinnCompanies and our other public and private partners to help support the communities where we work and live.”

The 250,000-squarefoot building has been largely vacant since 1995. Built by Bessemer City founder, John Askew Smith, in 1896, it quickly became one of the city’s largest textile mills.

“Main Street is economic development within the context of historic preservation,” said Kenny Flowers, North Carolina’s assistant secretary for rural economic development. “The Lofts of Osage Mill project is the ultimate reuse of a historic build-

ing, preserving a piece of Bessemer City’s history while rehabilitating the property for a new purpose that will benefit the entire community. We commend the local government leaders and private partners for their dedicated work and collaboration which will result in a multi-million-dollar investment, new businesses, and new jobs.”

Several elected officials in Gaston County played a key role in moving the project forward.

“It has been a pleasure to have made three board of commissioners’ motions in support of this historic project, all receiving unanimous support from the County. John Smith would be proud of this project without doubt,” said Bob Hovis, vice chairman of the Gaston County Commissioners.

“I have been pleased to work with the town of Bessemer City in the planning and redevelopment of the Osage Mill. Osage Mill is an iconic landmark built as a textile mill in the late 1800s that now will offer creative opportunities to cultivate entrepreneurial and other local businesses, allowing them to flourish in a retail as well as residential environment,” said State Sen. W. Ted Alexander. “Residents will have the benefit of being within walking distance to some of their favorite establishments. The convenience of eating in your favorite restaurant, after a long day of work, without having to get into a car and drive is priceless. Its rehabilitation is a prime example of how these older historic mills, once considered a liability, can become an economic engine and source of pride

for a community like Bessemer City.”

“This is a banner day for Bessemer City and all of Gaston County,” said State Sen. Brad Overcash. “The Historic Osage Cotton Mill Redevelopment Project is a significant economic development victory for the people of Western Gaston County. I wish everyone well and look forward to watching this project move forward.”

“I am honored to be included in today’s groundbreaking and proud to show support for the Osage Mill adaptive reuse project,” said State Rep. Kelly Hastings. “The transformation of the vacant mill into workforce housing apartments is vital to our community, bringing life to downtown Bessemer City. I feel confident the work will be completed in a professional and timely manner."

Although this will be WinnDevelopment’s first adaptive reuse project in North Carolina, the company has been responsible for the reuse and rehabilitation of 41 historic structures since 1981, creating nearly 5,000 new apartments in seven states and the District of Columbia. No other residential developer in the United States has won more awards for transforming vacant schools, mills, and other historic buildings into multifamily housing. The mill will be renovated to preserve and highlight the historic fabric of the building while providing a host of modern amenities and common areas, including an onsite management office, mail room and package lockers, resident lounge,

business center, fitness room, and secure storage for residents. Outdoors on the property, residents will enjoy access to a dog park, a seating and picnic area and children’s playground. The property will offer 244 parking spaces, including 20 spaces for persons with disabilities.

“The Gastonia Housing Authority is proud to support the redevelopment of the Historic Osage Mill by acting as the issuer of the multi-family bonds,” said Terri Sanford, executive director of the GHA.

“Not only will this project preserve an important historic structure and revitalize the downtown area of Bessemer City, but it will also provide homes for the elderly, the disabled, and working families in our area. We are grateful to the developers, the City of Bessemer City and the City of Gastonia elected officials and staff, and to all others who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition.”

The building’s design conforms to Energy Star guidelines. WinnDevelopment is collaborating with Duke Energy to maximize energy efficiency of the building’s mechanical equipment, appliances, interior and exterior lighting and building envelope.

Rehab Builders, of Winston-Salem, is the general contractor for the project, with Tise Kiester Architects of Chapel Hill serving as architect and MacRostie Historic Advisors LLC as historic consultant. Brockmann Law, located in Charlotte, is serving as legal counsel. Osage Mill is in a mixed-use neighborhood adjacent to Bessemer

City’s downtown commercial area and offers easy access to I-85 and strong employment hubs in Charlotte and Spartanburg, S.C.

Once completed, the community will be operated by WinnResidential, the property management arm of WinnCompanies. The company currently manages 504 apartments at three other North Carolina properties located in Charlotte, Monroe, and Raleigh. Its sister company, WinnResidential Military Housing Services, operates 6,183 privatized military homes for members of the U.S. Marines and their families at Camp Lejeune and Cherry Point in Havelock.

About WinnCompanies

WinnCompanies is an award-winning, national owner, developer and manager of high-impact affordable, middle income, mixed-income, market rate and military housing communities. Founded in Boston in 1971 and supported by 3,800 team members in 23 states and the District of Columbia, WinnCompanies is one of the nation’s largest multi-family housing managers with 105,600 residential and military apartment homes under management. It is a leading manager of affordable housing and privatized U.S. military housing in the United States. The company also owns 125 apartment communities in 11 states and the District of Columbia.

WinnCompanies CEO Gilbert Winn takes his turn speaking at the new Bessemer City project’s groundbreaking event.

A view of the Osage Manufacturing Mill project’s exterior. (photos provided)

Osage Mill as seen from the air. (Photo/Google Earth)

The Osage Manufacturing Mill sign.

An architectural rendering of the Osage Manufacturing Mill.