CFD; City of Cherryville: The call to all us is to “Never Forget!”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The 19th Annual Cherryville Fire Department’s Sept. 11th Remembrance Ceremony, held last Friday, Sept. 11, like the original day of the terrifying spectacle, was held on a beautiful late Summer, early Fall, blue sky day.
The passion is still there for the many, many victims, but over the years it seems less and less people appear to remember the fallen.
Such was the case last Friday at the CFD’s ceremony to honor the fallen heroes of that horrible day and its aftermath. Even though America is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its social distancing rules and regulations in place, the crowd was painfully small compared to similar ceremonies just a few years back.
As he spoke, welcoming everyone who was able to make it out, Fire Chief Jeff Cash said the day will always be a day of remembrance for him, his family, and his CFD staff. It’s a personal promise in action from him to make sure that none of us in Cherryville ever forget that horrible day in 2001.
On that Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019 at 9 a.m., the world as we know it changed forever.
Chief Cash said, “We memorialize this event every year. I was very privileged to have been a part of a group of North Carolina firefighters who took $750,000 in donations we raised and five vans up to New York for our fellow fire services brethren up there,” he said.
After a call to attention by CFD Capt. Nathan Bowman, and the “Pledge of Allegiance”, led by Cherryville Police Chief Cam Jenks, the Cherryville Chamber’s director David Day sang the “National Anthem”.
As was dictated by NC Gov. Roy Cooper. Capt. Bowman then stepped forward and lowered the flags to half staff in honor and memory of the thousands of lives lost that day.
In remembrance of the firefighting brotherhood, Chief Cash recounted how he and a select few other firefighters later traveled to New York and were able to be on a bridge near the site when seven sets of human remains were found by searchers.
Chief Cash has, in past ceremonies, recounted the occasion by saying, “…(It) was a somber occasion and one I will never forget. All of us on the bridge stood in silent reverence as the remains were moved and escorted by the NYFD and the NYPD to another place where they would be kept until the families could be notified.”
He continued, “That day, all told, 343 NYFD firefighters; 27 NYPD officers; 37 New York Port Authority officers; and over 2,600 civilians died when the Twin Towers crashed.”
Cash continued, “It bothers me today that then, our country came together as one. We have done this every year but it seems every year the crowd gets smaller and smaller. Lives are still being lost to illness caused by the cleanup of the hazardous materials and debris, but God is in control!”
Police Chief Cam Jenks noted that 10 different agencies had members who died that day with more still dying as a result of contracting illness from the dust and debris from the fall of the towers.
“The officers and firemen paid the ultimate price, as did the many innocent civilians who died that day. Our duty is to every year, honor their sacrifice,” he said.
Mayor Beam spoke next, noting there were some students who  were not even born when the event happened, who were viewing the ceremony by live streaming it.
“We’re here today to honor the 3,000 innocent dead. I saw undying loyalty that day as I watched events play out. Let us always never forget! Thank all of you for coming together for this ceremony. My hope and prayer is that we can continue to do this every year and that we here in Cherryville send forth our personal message to the families that we will always remember! We remember… and we shall NEVER forget!,” he said, adding, “God bless our city and our great nation as well!”
CFD firefighter Quentin Cash talked of the tolling of the bells (The 5-5-5 Bell Toll for the Fallen Firefighter), and GEMS worker Hannah Orr placed the red, white, and blue wreath by the flag pole.
The opening and closing prayer were given by Cherryville Fire Chaplin, the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner, of Cherryville First Baptist Church.
CHS student Tyler Foley, 14, said he takes classes virtually at the high school. While he wasn’t born when 911 happened, he said it was a sad day for America.
“I feel bad for the people whose lives were lost and for their families,” he said.

Inclement weather moves event indoors to fire station

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The Saturday, Aug. 29, drive-through safety mask giveaway location was changed due to inclement weather.
Originally slated to take place in the First Baptist Church parking lot, Fire Chief and City Manager Jeff Cash said they moved it to the truck bay of the Fire Station instead, directing folks who came by to turn into the station’s drive area from off Hwy. 150/Church Street.
As of 10:30, Saturday morning, Chief Cash said they had given away almost 80 of the masks, which were part of roughly 3,300 masks, or about 33 cases of the white, cloth safety items.
Chief Cash said that by the end of the day they had given away almost 1,700 of the masks, adding, “
In an Eagle article last week, Assistant Cherryville Fire Chief Jason Wofford said the department would receive a large number of masks which were to be handed out to the Cherryville, Crouse and Waco community.
Wofford said then the mask giveaway was to be a “drive up, grab and go event,” adding the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services were involved with the mask giveaway.
Wofford said, “The masks were donated by FEMA, the aforementioned Department of Health and Human Services, and N.C. Emergency Management, thanks to our Emergency Management Director, Kevin Gordon, who contacted us last week about the give-away.”
As for how many were given out last Saturday, Chief Cash said, “We gave out just short of 1,700 masks. We will line up another Saturday soon to give the remaining masks out.”
He continued, “Also, if anybody needs a mask, they can drop by the fire station Monday through Friday, from 8 to 11:30 a.m., and later, from 12:30 to 5 p.m., to pick some up. These masks are washable up to 15 times, and come in packs of five to a pack.”
AFC Wofford’s feelings about mask wearing are, in order to help flatten the COVID-19 curve and help those most vulnerable to the virus, that wearing a mask seems to do just that… help. Both Chief Cash and AFC Wofford noted that any protection from the coronavirus is better than none, hence the importance of wearing face coverings of some sort.
That said, he added, “I know masks can be a hot topic with those who do not like to wear them or believe they help, but they are being provided for those who do. It is important to replace or wash masks regularly.”
Chief Cash noted the help of volunteers not only from his own CFD, they had help as well from volunteers from Hugh’s Pond Volunteer Fire Department, and the Waco VFD.
For more information on how to get masks for you or your family CFD staff said to please call the Cherryville Fire Department at (704) 435-1730.
 


 

Company has ribbon cutting at old Southern Shavings building on Tot Dellinger Road

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

A 66-year-old, family owned millwork and animal bedding products company cut a ribbon on Aug. 28, signifying they were open for business in Cherryville and the surrounding area.
In addition to company officials and employees, a host of Cherryville City, Chamber, and Main Street Program officials came out also to welcome the town’s newest business.
The company’s web site, www.naturesbywoodgrain.com, noted that, “In 1954, Merrill ‘Bud’ Dame planted a seed – a moulding company in Utah named Dame Moulding and Lumber Company.” The company is now in its third generation as a family-owned business, and has expanded from its original location in Fruitland, ID.
Said Rocky Hullette, Eastern Regional Sales Manager, “We are 66 years old this year. We have products sold in 12 states and have facilities located in Idaho, Virginia, Alabama, and in North Carolina. This Cherryville location, in what was once Southern Shavings warehouse, is our newest location.”
Hullette said Southern Shavings owner Bill Culp, who opened in Cherryville back in 2004, sold to Natures by Woodgrain back in March of this year.
“We also have a location in Fallston,” said Hullette, “where we shave whole logs to make a specific size (wood) fake for our bedding products.”
Human Resources Supervisor Wanda Church said she has been with the company for seven years. She and the Cherryville location’s Supervisor, Ian Hotchkiss, along with the Fallston location’s supervisor, Dwayne Price, were all on hand, with other employees of the new business, watching the ribbon cutting for Cherryville’s newest business.
Cherryville Chamber Board President Pete Craft welcomed the Nature’s by Woodgrain crew, along with Mayor H.L. Beam, III, and a host of City Council members and City staff, and Cherryville Main Street Program staff members, to the city “Where Life Blossoms”.
Mayor Beam said, “It’s good to be here today, and on behalf of the Council, and our City staff, let me just say we are glad to have you here. We are proud you chose Cherryville as a place where you can do business.”
Mr. Craft agreed, adding he and the Cherryville business community wish the new shavings company well, affirming t them that, “We are at your service, and wish you all the best.”
In his third year with Nature’s, Hullette noted their company has seven divisions in the U.S.A. and one in Chile, South America.
“Cherryville is the only ‘whole log’ operation we have,” he said. “We purchased our competition here (Southern Shavings), and have put in a lot of long hours getting ready to get product out here. Animal bedding is a very competitive market, so we want ours to be the very best.”
Hullette said they have about 11 employees between the two locations: Fallston and Cherryville.
According to a company brochure, their bedding products are “triple-screened and 100 percent kiln dried pine, making them hypoallergenic, highly absorbent, while providing superior odor control”. They are known as being a “healthy choice” for animal bedding, particularly horses, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals.
For more information about the company, Hullette said to either go their web site (listed earlier in this article) or call 1-888-746-3001.

Will continue with Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office’s Special Operations Division on a part-time basis

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

After working for 30 years as a public servant; 23 of those at the Cherryville Fire Department as a Shift Captain, Fire Captain Trent Carpenter’s official “last day” there was Aug. 31, he said, adding his official last day on his shift was June 7.
Captain Carpenter was over the “A” shift, working 24 hours on, and 48 hours off, he spent every third day working that shift, he noted.
Still, he was very glad when they threw him a get-together with old friends, fellow workers, and some family members on Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the Cherryville Fire Station House, complete with all kinds of food and treats, mixed with a great deal of friendly camaraderie.
Carpenter, who received his Fire Captain’s insignia of two standing fire bugles six years ago, was all smiles as he walked around the room, greeting people, all from a socially distanced aspect, and talking about good times and the many fire calls they all made.
Captain Carpenter is also a Sergeant with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office’s Special Operations Division, a position he said he will continue to work on a part-time basis. He said he has five more years before he can retire from there.
“So far, that’s the (retirement) plan, along with a ‘honey-do’ list my wife has already planned out for me,” he said, smiling.
His wife, Sherry, said she will be glad to have him home more often, as his jobs and profession have often meant he had to be away from home many times, sometimes leaving right in the middle of their enjoying time together.
“I’m happy to see him retire and get to be home more,” she said. She and Trent have been married 29 years.
The Carpenter’s have a son, Spencer, who has followed in his father’s footsteps, profession-wise, working for the City of Hickory, N.C., fire department.
Captain Carpenter loves his family, and he loves his job, and for him, the guys he has met while on the job at CFD and at LCSO are like family to him as well.
Said Carpenter, “What will I miss most with retirement from here? I will miss the guys, the camaraderie, and the joking and kidding around with each other.
“I will still be up here visiting them, because you can’t just stay away from guys like this. They are like family to me, and you can’t stay away from family. We’re brothers and sisters in this profession. We take care of each other.”
Trent said his most memorable fire while on-duty at CFD was the January 2000 Carlton Mill fire.
“That one was something!” he said.
Cherryville City Manager and Fire Chief Jeff Cash said, “Trent Carpenter has been an asset to the City of Cherryville Fire Department and he will be missed!
“I have always relied on his expertise and professionalism in the area of rescue and training. He has always been willing to assist new firefighters in learning the fire service skill set. We wish him the very best!”
One of Trent’s friends, Fred May, came by to wish his old friend well, noting how, when the two were younger, many folks would get them mixed up because they thought they looked a lot alike.
Others from the City of Cherryville staff, such as Mayor H.L. Beam, III, and many Cherryville Police officers who have worked with him, came by as well, wishing him all the best in his retirement.
“This is great to see all these people come by for this,” said Carpenter as he looked around the room.
“I’m going to miss ‘em, but I’ll still get by every now and then to see them.”
You could tell by the look on his friend’s and co-worker’s faces, they were banking on it.

In spite of many new changes, first day back went smoothly for principals, students, with few glitches

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

All things considered Cherryville’s four principals said their first day back at school last week, for them, their staffs, and their students, went smoother than they anticipated, which was good news indeed!
Better than ‘good’, it was great news for Cherryville Elementary’s Shawn Hubers, W. Blaine Beam Intermediate’s Todd Dellinger, John Chavis Middle’s Matt Rikard, and Cherryville High’s Kevin Doran.
Principal Shawn Hubers, of Cherryville Elementary, said, “I think it has gone better than expected. Our teachers and staff have just done a terrific job adjusting to all the procedural changes that had to be made and doing it with a positive attitude. Our teachers started engaging their students in meaningful learning that very first day and are helping students get comfortable with our remote learning plan too. This is going to be a big adjustment for our students and staff, but we are committed to working at it and improving each day.”
As far as student excitement Hubers said the younger kids, “(They) have done a great job making the adjustment. It isn’t easy for your students to wear their masks all day but they have done it and have done it well. There are, of course, fewer students in our building and a lot less movement of students, but our teachers have been creative to find ways for students to move around and still be safe.”
Teachers are considered “essential workers” in the fight against COVID-19, but still many have fears. Mr. Hubers had this to say about his staff, “All of our staff (and their students) have just done a terrific job. The best thing about our Cherryville area schools are our people. We have staff members who care and are invested in our school and our community.”
Mr. Dellinger of WBBI agreed with his contemporary Mr. Hubers, noting, “The (first day) opening has gone better than expected. Teachers have really been able to work on procedures with a smaller group of students and provide students with an excellent beginning to school.
“We have been very safe and careful in all we are doing!  The highlight for me is just having students back in the building, that is what we are all about. Virtual learning is great, but in my opinion, there are so many additional benefits to it being blended with face-to-face learning. I think it is outstanding that our school system gave parents a choice in what was the best fit and for their child and family.”
Dellinger said his students were glad to be back.
“The students are thrilled to be back. None of us believed when we left in March we would be out for so long. They have been amazing following safety procedures and doing what they need to do to adjust to this new way of being back in school. I am absolutely so proud of them!”
On his staff’s handling of the return to classroom teaching, Mr. Dellinger said, “I cannot share enough praise and honor to the passionate hard work of our teachers here at W. Blaine Beam. I have opened school 28 times and the challenges of this year have been the greatest.
“It has required, hard work, teamwork, new learning, patience, and an abundance of patience. Our teachers hit the ground running for a week before they ever came back into this building. Giving their own time to complete online and face-to-face training in our Learning Management System Schoology, (and) professional development on the Morning Meeting to support student social and emotional needs.
“They have worked to make sure they deliver the very best instruction possible to our students. They have worked so hard to make sure their students in both cohorts had the very best start to school, under these unique and challenging times. They have done it every day with love and it shows in every classroom in this building. I am so blessed to be a part of this great school and team.”
Dellinger continued, “I want to thank our local leaders, parents, and community for the patience, understanding, and support they have shown throughout this time of crisis. There is no better place to be a part of than here in Cherryville.”
John Chavis Middle School Principal Matt W. Rikard commented as well.
Said Rikard, “I feel that it has gone better than expected. We worked last week as a staff to have procedures in place to keep everyone safe, and to expedite the screening process.
“The main highlight would be how well the staff pulled together to accomplish such a smooth school opening under such unprecedented times. I also think that how well the parents and students have done with the procedures is amazing.”
As for his students’ excitement to be back in class, Mr. Rikard said, “Myself and (Assistant Principal) Mrs. Gillepsie have spoken to every class. They all seem excited to be back, and are anxious for things to get back to ‘normal’, (such as) having all of their peers back in school at the same time.”
As for his “Heroes that Work Here” (the teachers and staff at Chavis), Mr. Rikard noted, “I cannot say enough about the staff at JCMS and how hard they have worked.
“They are doing whatever it takes to keep everyone in the building safe, from making sure everyone is socially distanced, teaching in masks all day, to sanitizing – all while delivering excellent instruction.”
And just a few blocks across town, CHS Principal Kevin Doran noted, “A lot of planning went into the first day (back) and I am pleased to report that it went great! Our students followed directions, wore their masks, and socially distanced.
“Our teachers showed up early, helped with screening, and did anything they could do to make sure CHS was successful. I could not be more proud of everyone!”
About student excitement to be back in class, Mr. Doran said, “I think our students understand that in-person instruction is much more effective than online instruction. They miss their teachers and friends and are excited to get the opportunity to be back in school.”
Mr. Doran noted the CHS teachers and his entire staff – all “Heroes Who Work Here” – have “…gone above and beyond to ensure our students continue to have the opportunity for in-person instruction. Our custodial team disinfects all high touch areas every hour. This includes every door handle, light switch, hallway corner, bathroom, and anything else you can think of.
“They also utilize an electrostatic sprayer to deep clean and disinfect all surfaces each night. My teachers sanitize each desk and high touch area in their classrooms after every use. They also pull triple duty before school, after school, and during their planning periods ensuring that our students are wearing masks and social distancing.
“Everyone at CHS, from the front office to our bus drivers, are pulling together to make this work. We will continue to do everything possible to make sure our students are safe. We must follow all of our safety procedures strictly in order to continue offering in-person instruction.”
 

Chief: “What they did for us was great!

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Police Department Chief Cam Jenks will be the first to tell you the year 2020 (and more than a few before it) have not been kind to law enforcement agencies and their image as perceived and reported on by the media.
However, he and his hard-working staff are greatly heartened by a recent kindness shown them by three breakfast serving tykes and their parents, Pastor Gertjan and Stephanie Vroege.
Stephanie and Gertjan are staying in the Second Baptist Church Missions House while here, and their children would see the CPD officers getting gas across the street from their house.
Said Chief Jenks, “What they did for us was great! With all the false narratives that play out in the media and how they play to the fears of kids nowadays, for us this was a blessing!”
Jenks said he knew that Stephanie and some of his officers interacted with the children, which helped them change their outlook about police officers.
“They (the Vroege family) came and showed us a lot of love in a time when law enforcement members aren’t feeling much of it in many places in America,” said Chief Jenks.
Stephanie takes up the thread of the story from there, noting, “From hearing things on the news, they were fearing (the police) with all that happened with (the killing of) George Floyd.
“But after meeting the Sisk family and their son (Patrol Officer Skylar Sisk), the cops have become their heroes. They see them every day as we are staying in the Second Baptist Missions house and the place (where) they gas up is across the road from us.
“So now they look out and speak to the police every day and have been able to meet most of them. They no longer fear (them). The police force here in Cherryville have been very kind and talked with the kids and answered their questions and made them not fearful anymore.”
Currently, Pastor and Mrs. Vroege are able to live off of support from family, friends and supporting churches, and are in the states, and Cherryville, pending the borders in Uganda opening, she said, adding, “We plan to go back in December of this year, to finish our work on the Islands and in the village (in which they ministered). All of this is depending on (what happens with) the coronavirus and the borders opening up in Uganda.”
Stephanie, who is originally from Cherryville, and is the daughter of the late Thomas B. Patterson. Her mother is Betty Patterson. She said she and Gertjan have been in Uganda since 2012 with their last time home as a family being in 2015.
She continued, “I was raised in Zion Hill Baptist Church; Pastor Roger Fuller; here in Cherryville, but after University, I lived in the Cary, N.C., area and our sending church is Grace Bible Fellowship, (located in) Cary, N.C.; Pastor Norman Peart; and in Holland, DeArk.
“My husband is from the Netherlands. He and I met in 2006 in Tema, Ghana, in West Africa. We have been in Missions and serving in missions since then. We most recently have been in Uganda since 2012 and recently adopted a little girl from Uganda, whose name is Sarah. This is our first time as a family in the USA in five years since our adoption, which was a longer process than anticipated.”
Mrs. Vroege said when they are ministering in Uganda, they teach the Bible and do trainings on the islands of Lake Victoria and in villages. They also teach discipleship, evangelism, and do some medical work, as she is an RN-PNP. Additionally, she does volunteer work at the local children’s hospital to encourage and work with local nursing staff and share the love of Christ. She is also a consultant to missionaries on care of their children. In addition, Stephanie helps to lead a missionary women’s Bible Study group.
Simply put, she said their mission is from the Gospel of Matthew (28:19-20) where believers are commanded to “Go, therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
She said, “Our desire and passion are to see people equipped with the Word of God. So, we partner with an organization (SHIM-Shepherd’s Heart International Ministry) and serve on the islands of Lake Victoria providing Bible teaching, training, and discipleship. We travel as a family one week out of the month by boat for about one and half hours on Lake Victoria and stay on the compound of SHIM.
“The students also travel and stay for the week. The students are primarily pastors and church leaders, and they attend a two-year Bible School. The school covers the Old and New Testament and cultural and Biblical topics; the students are taught how to study the Bible and how to apply it. The students are taught through Bible Storying, theology, character, ministry skills, and leadership classes.
“These Pastors have a desire for Biblical knowledge and training. Their life on the islands would otherwise not allow for funding or opportunity to attend a Bible school on the mainland. It is amazing as we see them grow in Bible knowledge, how they apply it, and to see their households and villages start living it out. We see them learning, growing, and changing by the power of God’s Word.”
Pastor Gertjan works in three local villages on land and is doing the same two-year Bible School curriculum that we use on the islands. It is life-changing as they grow in the knowledge of the Bible, how to study the Bible, and how to apply it in their daily lives. Our heart is Biblical truth, teaching, and discipleship.”
Stephanie said, “Lastly, but officially, our first ministry is to our family. We have three children that are homeschooled! God is good and we are thankful to serve in Uganda!”
For those who might wish to help the Vroege’s out by supporting their ministry in Uganda, Stephanie said you can give on line at https://www.missiongo.org/donate/missionaries/gert-jan-and-stephanie-vroege-1, or mail it to: Global Outreach Mission-MissionGO P.O. Box 2010, Buffalo, New York, 14231-2010 (write check out to MissonGO and attach a note that it is for Gertjan and Stephanie Vroege).

Her downtown Art Works studio and gallery will be opening soon

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

It is a fair statement to say that Cherryville artist is truly in her element when it comes to talking about her favorite subject – art.
And, to that end, she wants, as her business card says, everyone to “Discover the Joy of Art”. She believes in its healing power, its recuperative power, and most importantly, it unifying power in that it can bring even the most disparate types of folks together for a common goal – making something magical happen through creating a stunning visual painting, drawing, sculpture, or mixed media piece that will last for some time.
Mrs. Bingham, a retired art educator and local artist and art teacher, is one of two artisans who will be occupying the ground floor of Cherryville’s newest treasure, the newly-redone building at 200 E. Main.
Bingham’s studio/gallery is in the back, and though small, already looks as if it has been in use for a while, right down to the eclectic, “artsy” atmosphere and decor.
Sherry retired from teaching in 2012, and plans to use the space to teach small groups as well as create, show and sell her own art.
“I have a passion for art, and have had since I was in the second grade,” said Bingham, who can barely contain her excitement as she talks about creating art. “I knew then I wanted to be a teacher and wanted to let my students do art all day long!”
Bingham’s love for her profession is evident in the pieces in her studio; sculptures, prints, and brightly colored paintings of various sizes and themes, all geared toward eliciting questions such as, “What made you paint this?”, or “Why did you choose this as a theme?”
Most recently, Sherry noted she is dabbling more in digital photography and enhancing her photos on a computer, but still retaining their “specialness”.
Her late mom and dad, Patricia Lineberger Dellinger and Everette E. “Red” Dellinger, encouraged her, she said, adding her mother did watercolor painting, mostly as a hobby, though she also worked some in oils and acrylics.
The family, originally from Lincolnton, moved to Cherryville, where her father ran a dry-cleaners out of the very building she eventually wound up owning, then selling – the 200 E. Main St. building.
As for teaching, Bingham said she started teaching in 1968, then taught privately for 16 years, and returned to public teaching in 1980, in the Kings Mountain district, first in elementary school, then later on, in high school.
“I didn’t teach any students after my retirement,” she said.
Bingham said she taught noted Cherryville artist Gary Freeman, who later taught art at Gaston College, and now has a studio and gallery in Main Street, in the old Eagle office.
Bingham said she has taught many different styles of art, adding that she “loves surrealism, the unexpected and the whimsical” in artistic styles. Her love for the Victorian era has caused to dabble some in the “steampunk” style of art, which combines many of the technical aspects of the modern and the late 1800s art styles, often combining them in design “mashup” that is a style all its own.
To many Cherryville folks Mrs. Bingham is perhaps best known for her “Children’s Art Alleyway”, nestled between two buildings on Main Street.
“I feel it is my legacy,” she said, reflecting on what it took to bring the award-winning, real-space artwork to fruition as part of the Cherryville Main Street Program.
Bingham said she loves working in the downtown area; the hustle and bustle, and will hopefully soon have an open house for her studio, once it is all finished.
“I want to be accepting students by September,” she said. “also, I don’t want to teach online, so I will start at a low capacity. As for the cost for getting into one of her classes, which will offer a wide variety of artistic disciplines and styles, as well as differing mediums and platforms, she said it would be best to call her at (704) 913-8928, or email her at artworkswithsherry@gmail.com. She is also in Facebook (Art Works with Sherry Bingham).
Bingham’s eventual goal, she noted, is to be able to get her students to sell as well as exhibit their work.

Store closed in March but continued its assistance program throughout that time

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Area Ministries Community Outreach & Affairs Manager Sherry Curry said she and her staff are glad to be back doing what they love most – helping others through in this tough time.
Curry, along with store manager Barbara Decker, truck driver and food room assistant Airan Smith, and store clerks Diane Beebe, Grace Stout, and Jenny Smith, who Curry noted can come back after the Phase 3 opening plans get under way, are all masked up (per COVID-10 safety protocols), and at the store almost every day, manning the phones, greeting customers, and helping folks out with their purchases and finding what they need, all at a great price.
Curry also said she didn’t want to forget Dale Towns with what she termed “an honorable mention,” for alt-hough he is not officially an employee, Curry said, “He dedicates his time to us and we are thankful to have him!”
Said Curry, “As I said, our last day opened (pre-COVID-19) was March 19, and that was, as she noted, “at full capacity.”
She continued, “On March 20, we continued our assistance program, and that was throughout the time the store was closed. We officially opened the store back up on July 6, with days and hours of operation being Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m., to 5 p.m. We are no longer open on Saturdays. Also, we are currently open at only 50 percent capacity.”
Sherry said that making the store safer and free from COVID-19 contamination requires constant attention and sanitization, which they are all happy to do to assure there are no problems.
“We have someone disinfecting all the buggies and front door handles after each use. Also, countertops, cash registers and other door handles within the store are wiped repeatedly with disinfectant wipes throughout the day.”     
She continued, “We also have signs asking people to stay six feet apart from each other, practicing positive social distancing, and we have ‘one-way aisle’ signs. We have a sign asking customers to not enter if they have a fever, feel sick or if they or anyone they have been around has tested positive for COVID-19.
“We are limiting our number of customers to 20 people at a time so we can take in consideration the staff and volunteers as well. Additionally, we all wear masks and make sure our customers wear their masks too.”
Additionally, Curry commented that, “Any clothes that have been tried on and not purchased are placed in a cart placed outside the dressing room doors and brought to the back and covered for 72 hours before they are hung back out on the shopping floor.”
Said Curry, “We do not touch donations, meaning we have individuals unload their donations of clothes and miscellaneous items into a bin that is placed out front. When that is full, we roll it to the back and cover it for 72 hours.
“After the 72 hours are up, we sort through it to put it out on the shopping floor. Furniture is to be left outside for 72 hours or until we can get out to wipe and spray it with disinfectant. Once we do that, we can bring it in and put it on the shopping floor.”
As for the gate out front, Ms. Curry noted, “Our ‘After Hours’ process is that we keep our gate at the road closed so people do not drop off donations.”
Curry said she and her staff have seen an increase in those in need due to the coronavirus, estimating that in-crease in food and rental assistance needs to be roughly about 25 percent.
She also noted that while they have not seen any reduc-tion in monetary support so far, there has been some re-duction in actual merchandise donations due to the COVID-19 restrictions and also due to their having to be closed for the length of time they were.
Curry said for those who wish to help or continue to help the Ministry, “They can call the store at (704) 435-3816, and I will call back the same day, unless it’s the weekend or after hours.
“They can email cherryvilleministry@gmail.com, or they can message us on Facebook messenger under Cher-ryville Area Ministries.”
The Ministry has a Board of Directors comprised of 12 members that guides them in their decision making and in overall policy-making.
They are: Clay Henley (President); Tammy Kiser (Vice-President); Kim Eaker (Treasurer); Barbara McDaniel (Secretary); and Debbie Funderburke, Rev. Jhoan Alfaro, Suzette Smith; Jody Hayes; Bess Thornburg; Ellen Jack-son; Rev. Dr. Bill Lowe; and Bernice Harris.
Curry said she is thankful for the Board, her staff, and the community and people of Cherryville.
“We would like to thank those in the community for understanding the safety measures we are taking and being patient with us.
“We have these measures in place for everyone’s safety and to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our commu-nity. It is important to us that all our staff, volunteers and customers stay safe during this pandemic. Although small, we have a great staff who work together well. And we are proud of each of them for sticking to the new guidelines and putting themselves out there during these unpredictable times,” she said.
 
 

Project represents $273 million  investment and many jobs for Cleveland County; surrounding counties

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Last Wednesday, July 22, representatives from the Catawba Indian Nation, located in Rock Hill, S.C., and the City of Kings Mountain, and from Cleveland County, met to break ground for the Catawba’s Casino Resort Project.
The group of individuals met at 10:30 a.m., at the Catawba’s 16-acres of land set aside for the casino, just off Exit 5 on I-85, the actual address being 245 Dixon School Rd., Kings Mountain.
In a Monday, July 20, media release from Tribal Administrator Elizabeth Harris, there was limited space available due to COVID-19 restrictions, and the expected mask and social distancing guidelines and rules were in place.
Catawba Chief William “Bill” Harris, after brief introductions of all those who were invited to speak and take part in the auspicious occasion, said, “We are privileged to work with the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners and the City of Kings Mountain. We are also pleased to be working with Delaware North as well as Sky Boat Development.”
Chief Harris spoke about the history of the Catawba Nation and the tribe’s close historical ties with first the English during the French and Indian War, then with the Colonial Americans, when they later took up arms against the British in the Battle of Kings Mountain.
He spoke of the Catawba’s great King Hagler, who in the 1750s spoke about living in peace, love and friendship with all nations. King Hagler, or Nopkehee, who was born about 1700, and died in 1763. He became Chief of the Catawba in 1754.
“We, the Catawba Nation, were there to read the signs and warn the colonists of British attacks,” Chief Harris said, as he continued on the history of the Catawba Nation.
Chief Harris referenced how their nation has developed many partnerships over the many years, bringing it home by referring to the coming casino and its many job opportunities by saying, “Today, we celebrate the thousands of jobs that will be created; we celebrate the economic growth that will come about.”
Regarding that economic growth: it is estimated that a total of $428.1 million will be realized as far as an annual economic impact is concerned. The breakdown is as follows: $308 million (once operational, in per year of direct economic activity and employment of an estimated 2,600 workers); $77.3 million (an additional per year in indirect impact through local purchases from local business); and another $42.8 million per year in induce impact from employer expenditures, according to information provided by London & Associates (February 2020). This same study projects that construction activity alone will generate $311 million, with a “total employment of 2,347 from direct, indirect, and induced effect”, as per that same media release.
Harris continued, “Today the Catawba Nation wants to express it gratitude to Kings Mountain, Delaware North, Cleveland County, and Sky Boat, as well as others as this project unfolds. Some of those others he talked about include U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham, Richard Burr, Tom Tillis, and Sen. Scott for their 2019 support that encouraged the request to accept the 16 acres of land into trust for the Catawbas. That decision is still being contested by the Cherokee Tribe but the casino continues to move forward, noted Chief Harris, in a March 2020 article in the Eagle.
According to the Project History & Timeline handed out at the groundbreaking, the projected Introductory Phase, complete with 1,300 operational gaming devices is possibly summer of 2021.
Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler, who was one of the project leads, along with Cleveland County Commissioner Johnny Hutchins, was quoted on the handout as saying, “Finally, the Catawbas have the opportunity to perpetuate their culture as a meaningful elevation of their place in North American history.
“Before today, this eight-mile stretch of I-85 had little to offer to locals and tourists. With this project we will become the premier destination between Atlanta and Washington, DC, for entertainment.”
Neisler said at the groundbreaking, “Today, we are standing on official Catawba Nation lands! This is historical Catawba land! We are all Americans, and we are in lockstep with them, and wish them well in the furthering of their culture. I want to thank Chief Harris and others of this Catawba Nation for having us as guests on their land.”
Commissioner Hutchins was quoted on the handout as saying, “Our steadfast partnership with the Catawba Indian Nation has brought us to this moment in time to celebrate their culture and their desire to improve the future of tribe members and those in Cleveland County and the region through jobs, tourism, and economic potential.”
He added at the groundbreaking, “This (casino and its jobs) is going to be beneficial to us all.”
In addition to Hutchins being there for the Cleveland County Commissioners, Chairperson Susan Allen was present as well, as was Delaware North’s Gaming President E. Brian Hansberry, and a host of dignitaries and others. Sheriff Alan Norman and the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department provided security and direction for the event.
Hansberry noted that Delaware North wants “to create a world-class operation here,” and that they were “glad to be working on this.”
In closing, Chief Harris, said, just before inviting everyone to the actual groundbreaking area, “This project will have a huge economic impact on this area!”
Providing tribal music and prayers for the event, along with ceremonial drumming were Jason and Ronnie Beck.
For those desiring more information on the Catawba Nation Casino or the tribe, contact Elizabeth Harris, Tribal Administrator at elizabeth.harris@catawbaindian.net, or call (803) 366-4792, ext. 225.


 

Staff can now add word “pandemic” to their “Postman’s Oath”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

(Ed. Note: This is Part Six of the Eagle’s “Heroes Work Here” series showcasing those in our small community who work hard to make all of us safer and help life to go on as near to normal as can be during this coronavirus pandemic.)

If you remember your elementary school, then later, your civics classes and teaching, you probably can recite the “Postman’s Oath”.
According to a search on the site Google, the full and complete “Postman’s Oath” goes something like this: “Neither rain, nor sleet, nor dark of night shall stay these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.” Today, with all that is going on with the coronavirus perhaps they should add the words, “nor COVID-19 pandemic” to it.
For the Cherryville Post Office Postmaster Catherine Brock and her crew, keeping the mail going forward and making sure everyone gets their mail is, as it has always been, an essential job.
“We work together as a family to get the job done,” she said recently.
With Brock at the Cherryville Post Office are about 25 staff and mail carriers.
“We have 10 full-time mail carriers,” said Brock.
Like Brock, and others who serve the public in today’s pandemic world, all of the postal workers at Cherryville’s branch don’t see themselves as “heroes” though they have a sign in their lobby that proudly states that “Heroes Work Here!” And, like Ms. Brock, they all have many years invested in working for the United States government, and all very proud of their job and their ability to do it well.
Supervisor Scott Smith said he has 24 years in as a postal employee. He takes great pride in being able to make sure his employees have the health supplies they need on hand to combat this pandemic.
“From the git-go, that is, the time we found out about the virus, we went to work making the building safe for our employees. Also, we’re fortunate in that the command center in Forest City has supplies we can get when we need to. I think we’ve done an awesome job in taking care of sanitizing the building and vehicles. The USPS has done a great job also in getting the materials to us that we need.”
For Smith, his faith in God has stood him in good stead through out all of this pandemic.
Likewise, for rural mail carrier Patricia Mooney, of Vale, who has been with the post office for 12 years, three of them at Cherryville.
“Since I’ve been here,” she said, “safety is the number one thing we take care of.”
Mooney said it’s her faith in God that keeps her going during this pandemic as well as the joy of just getting to say “Hello!” to folks whose mail she delivers on her route.
Brock, who has 20-plus years in the business, also attributes her faith in the Lord and her being able to help others, seeing satisfaction in that, is what makes the job special to her.
Likewise, for clerk Cynthia Wright, who noted, “I take pride in my job and my job is service to my community.” Wright has 30-plus years with the Post Office.
Rural carrier Julie Clinton, who has five years of service with the Post Office, said her faith in God keeps her here doing what she does every day.
Said Julie, “It’s an honor to provide an essential service such as this to others.”
Allison Sitar, who has been a clerk at the Cherryville Post Office for about a week, agreed.
“I feel privileged they gave me an opportunity to work here and to help provide this service to the community. It’s great to be able to do what I get to do!” she said.
Twenty-year-plus postal veteran Lisa Roach, also a rural mail carrier, said, “I always count it an honor to work at the post office. We bring people valuable information and get to see the instant gratification on their faces when we bring them good news.”
Like her fellow workers, Roach noted the pandemic is a “scary thing”, but added, “We try and remember that in our jobs there are people who are counting on us. We have great people working here too! Scott (the supervisor) always takes care of us!”
Rural carrier Renee Peeler said she has the same sentiments about her job at the Cherryville Post Office. She has been a mail carrier for 13 years.
One of the more visible mail carriers that was there the day of this interview was 17-year mail carrier veteran Heather Barger, whose smiling face has been a staple in downtown Cherryville, and all along her route.
Barger said she started in Pineville, but has been in Cherryville for the past 15 years.
“I love my job, and I love getting to see my customers,” she said. The best part, since I love being outdoors, is being out in town and greeting people.”
Brock said, “We have an awesome staff and hard-working crew. Everybody’s been at work every day.”
Smith agreed, adding, “We provide normalcy to the public. When they see our mail trucks out delivering the mail, it equals stability.”
Cathy also added, “We would also like to include our thanks to the many businesses and customers who have provided support to the staff during this pandemic.”

 

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

On June 10, the staff of Cherryville First Baptist Church, and four area businesses, set about providing meals for local and area police forces, to show their appreciation for the work those police and law enforcement agencies do for the many communities they serve.
Cherryville First Baptist pastor, the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner said then of their intended goal, “We will serve over 300 meals to different people in law enforcement and public safety.
“We want to do something positive by serving the people who serve us!”
He continued, “I believe our desire in providing a meal to the police officers and first responders was to encourage the men and women who serve and protect us. In difficult and challenging times people need to hear, see, and experience the love of Christ.
“The goal is to lift up the downtrodden in Jesus name. You never know what just one kind act in Jesus’ name will do for someone who is discouraged.
“As Americans, we need each other, and we need to respect and love one another. If we remain divided, we will never be able to stand. If we cannot forgive, we are doomed to live in defeat and fear. If we live in the past, we will never experience the blessings of the present.”
Abby Hawkins, who helped with getting the meals together and delivering  them,  said they had

See CHURCH, Page 4
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 delivered “altogether 350 meals.”
Reverend Hefner wanted to thank Scretia Hartman and those FBC volunteers who helped cook and prepare the meals and put them together for the officers. He also noted he wanted to thank all the sponsors who donated to help with the meals.
“Our sponsors were Carolina Federal Credit Union, Heath Jackson Plumbing, Sun Drop/Choice USA Beverage, Scott Beam and Beamco, of Cherryville, and Cherryville Signs and Graphics,” Dr. Hefner noted.
The police and other public agencies they provided meals for are as follows: the Cherryville Police Department; the Cherryville Fire Department; the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office; the Gaston County Police Department; the Belmont Police Department; Hugh’s Pond Volunteer Fire Department; Gastonia City Police Dept.; the Mount Holly Police Dept.; the Cramerton Police Department; the police departments for Lowell, Bessemer City, Ranlo, Stanley, and Dallas, and the N.C. State Highway Patrol.
Dr. Hefner also noted that in addition to feeding the local public safety officials to show appreciation for their service, FBC also mailed 33 letters across the U.S. to various police departments thanking them for their service, and to let them know that the folks at FBC in Cherryville were praying for them daily.

Gaston County Schools has transitioned its “Grab and Go” meal program to its annual Summer Feeding Program, but students and parents will not notice much change.
Meals this summer are being distributed at 18 school sites.  The sites listed below also were used this spring for the “grab and go” program.
In addition to the Cherryville and Bessemer City locations at Cherryville Elementary School, 700 East Academy St., Cherryville, Bessemer City High School, 119 Yellow Jacket Ln., Bessemer City, and Tryon Elementary School, 2620 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Bessemer City; additional sites are as follows: Ashbrook High School, 2222 South New Hope Rd., Gastonia; H.H. Beam Elementary School, 200 Davis Park Rd., Gastonia; Brookside Elementary School, 1925 Auten Rd., Gastonia; Carr Elementary School, 307 South Pine St., Dallas; Chapel Grove Elementary School, 5201 Lewis Rd., Gastonia; Grier Middle School, 1622 East Garrison Blvd., Gastonia; Holbrook Middle School, 418 South Church St., Lowell|; Hunter Huss High School, 1518 Edgefield Ave., Gastonia; Kiser Elementary School, 311 East College St., Stanley; Mount Holly Middle School, 124 South Hawthorne St., Mount Holly; North Belmont Elementary School, 210 School St., Belmont; Robinson Elementary School, 3122 Union Rd., Gastonia; Warlick Academy, 1316 Spencer Mountain Rd., Gastonia; Webb Street School, 1623 North Webb St., Gastonia; and Woodhill Elementary School, 1027 Woodhill Dr., Gastonia.
At each location, distribution takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 noon. A meal for Friday is provided on Thursday.
How does the program work?
When you arrive at the meal pickup site that is most convenient for you, look for the school nutrition personnel in the front parking lot. Then, go to the distribution area and ask for a meal. The meal will be packaged in a bag.
The meal will be provided to children (age 18 and younger) free-of-charge. You should plan to take the meal with you – there is not a place to eat on-site.
You may pick up a meal at any of the sites, regardless of where you live or attend school.
If you have a question about our summer feeding program, please call (704) 836-9110.

Cost of the CHS parking lot paving is approximately $230,000

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info
The front and back parking lots of Cherryville High School are scraped and ready for paving thanks to funds allocated by the $250 million school bond referendum.
Gaston County School Communications Director Todd Hagans spoke to this fact by noting that when voters overwhelmingly approved a $250 million school bond referendum, it marked what he termed in a media release from GCS’ office, “the beginning of a new era – an exciting time for new school construction, school additions, and renovations and repairs.”
Hagans elaborated in the release, “A multi-year effort is in place to use the bond funds. The first allotment of $60 million is providing money for construction of the new Belmont Middle School ($40 million) and addressing critical renovations and repairs at 25 schools ($20 million).
“A number of projects, ranging from roof replacements and parking lot paving to new gym floors and new windows/doors, are already complete while others are in progress or development.”
Hagans mentioned that among the most significant projects are roof replacements, citing roofing work that has taken place at Southwest Middle School and South Point High School, and improvements that are planned at six more schools – East Gaston, Highland, Mount Holly, Beam Intermediate, Page, and North Gaston.
He continued, “Paving (of driveways/parking lots) is complete at Webb Street, Grier, New Hope, and Cherryville Elementary with work scheduled in the near future at Carr and Cherryville High (CHS).”
The work at CHS has begun as of June 23, according to Principal Kevin Doran, who noted the front and back lots have been scraped already by Barton Contracting.
Said Doran, “They came by on Tuesday, June 23, literally before the sun came up and knocked out the front parking lot and turnaround area.”
Additionally, they scraped the back lot, the buses having been moved prior to that a few days before to the lot across from the high school in order to facilitate that work. The side lot, near the CHS practice field, has not yet been scraped, nor is it known if that was to have been included with the already scraped lots.
On Thursday, July 2, Mr. Hagans noted via email the cost of the CHS parking lot paving is approximately $230,000.
Hagans also noted other improvements also are being made and those are to athletic facilities, which included a new gym floor at John Chavis Middle School and new baseball field lights at North Gaston High School.
Said Hagans, “Other school projects focus on electrical/lighting, HVAC, plumbing, flooring, and life safety (cameras, intercoms, and alarms).
“With only $60 million allocated for the first round of work, that leaves $190 million for new construction and more renovations/repairs in the years ahead.”
For those wishing to stay up to date on what’s going on with the school bonds, Mr. Hagans noted you can do so by visiting the Gaston County Schools website.
“You’ll find information about the bonds, the allocation of funds by townships, upcoming and completed projects, and much more at www.gaston.k12.nc.us/schoolbonds2018,” he said.




 

by ANNE S. HAYNES
Special to the Eagle

Sunday, June 21, 2020 will be remembered as an historical milestone in the history of Shady Grove Baptist Church of Cherryville.
In the outdoor setting at the church, the special day began with reverent messages in song by Choir Director Joe Heffner, followed by soloist Kathy Bumgardner and a Father’s Day message by Shady Grove’s Pastor Dale Hendricks.
Church historian and parliamentarian Charles Haynes spoke of the history of Shady Grove Baptist Church of Cherryville. He explained how 32 members organized Shady Grove under a brush arbor on Highway 274, south of Cherryville in 1881.
The church in the “grove of trees” was followed by the present-day sanctuary in 1951, an Educational Building in 1964, and the Family Life Center in 1992. He pondered the question of when might we need more space.
Former Shady Grove pastor, Rev. Keith Hollar was present as the leader of the “Building Through Faith” Campaign. This campaign brought together past and present church members who desire for Shady Grove to grow and to continue to be the church in the “grove of trees” that will reach out with the message of Jesus Christ.
Father’s Day was an appropriate day to break ground for a new sanctuary that will be a place of worship where it began in the community so many years earlier.
As many church members and visitors watched, the Ad Hoc Committee, with shovels in hand, ceremoniously broke the ground for the new sanctuary immediately following Rev. Hollar’s prayer of dedication.
Special thanks were expressed by Pastor Hendricks to the Ad Hoc Committee, Building Through Faith Committee, Alliance Bank
See SHADY, Page 4
Shady

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and Trust, Architect Jerry McGinnis, Morrison Construction, A&A Grading, and Rev. Hollar.
Pastor Hendricks also remembered that Shady Grove has lost four faithful members recently. Elizabeth Hovis, Harold Jackson, Hillard Hester, and Janice Beam all wanted to see the construction of the new sanctuary. Each one of them surely had a special place in the hearts of many church members during the sanctuary groundbreaking.
Pastor Dale was instrumental in leading the congregation in carrying out this important phase in the life of Shady Grove and the community, and the church is grateful for his Spirit-led leadership.
In closing the service, Pastor Hendricks quoted Psalm 127:1, “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.” Special scripture indeed for a special day.
To God be the glory!

 

They’ve been in harm’s way before and know God is watching out for them

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

(Ed. Note: This is Part Four of the Eagle’s “Heroes Work Here” series showcasing those in our small community who work hard to make all of us safer during the coronavirus pandemic.)

The staff and employees of Houser Drug have more than a passing interest in this 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
As health care workers, like doctors and nurses, they and other fellow pharmacists and pharmacy techs who live and work in Cherryville, are essential to their community as front-line troops in the fight against this insidious, seemingly hard-to-kill little pest that ruins lives physically and economically. Theirs is a constant vigilance against an unseen but deadly enemy.
Houser Drug has been a Cherryville business since 1935, said co-owner and Pharmacist Tim Moss. Moss has been a Pharmacist since 1988, with 28 of his professional years spent at Houser Drug. Tim said he believes the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic is one of the worst viral epidemics the U.S., or the world, has faced in recent history.
“I feel the media has taken this (COVID-19) to a heightened level. We hate to see it come, and we weren’t prepared for it.”
Moss noted that he and his peers in the medical community see many immuno-compromised people, such as people who have diabetes, various types of cancer, high-blood pressure, stroke, or older patients on a daily basis. He said they see how these folks are having to deal with it so they try to do their part daily to help make things better for them, as well as for the employees of Houser Drug.
“We’ve been wiping down everything in the store daily. If one of our employees has a fever, we’ve told them to stay home,” he said. “In this business we’re at risk every day. My job is to deal with sick people every day, but I don’t think of myself as a hero. My reward is to see people healthy and whole.”
Moss said he and his employees treat their clients and customers like family, adding he doesn’t let money or profit-making drive his decisions, because, as he says, “I know what business we’re in – health care.”
Moss and his employees who have been with him a while are aware of what an epidemic looks and feels like as they have been through a number of them in the past.
Said Tim, “We’ve been in harm’s way before and we know God is watching out for us. The bottom line though is that I hope and pray it all works out and we can flatten the curve or get a vaccine soon. We want everybody to stay safe, but life has to resume at some point in time.”
Houser Drug employee Jill Parker-Puett knows their staff has gone the distance, and is practicing social distancing in their store.
“We have to protect ourselves while taking care of others. We know the masks (they have to wear) and hand washing are protecting us,” she said.
Parker-Puett, who has been with Houser Drug for 11 years, was an EMT for over 20 years, but nothing she has seen to date, she noted, “is equal to this (the pandemic).”
Said Parker-Puett, “Some folks don’t know they have it so it, so the masks and hand washing do help. Also, we’re testing a whole lot more than when this first started.
“Personally, I feel bad for those who have loved ones in a care facility or the hospital who lose or have lost loved ones and couldn’t be there with them in their hour of need.”
Parker-Puett noted she and the folks at Houser Drug, and all the other pharmacies and medical clinics, nursing homes, doctor’s offices, and such are “uniquely poised to handle things like this.”
Sarah Gatza, who has been with Houser Drug for three years, has to be especially careful to not contract the virus as her husband Robert is a heart patient and is still under a physician’s care and watchful eye after a heart transplant at Duke. She believes that God healed her husband and made a way for him to have his new heart and they’re not taking that for granted, she said.
“I trust God to take care of me on a daily basis and to be smart, wash my hands, wear a mask, and do what I can to protect him and my family from this (COVID-19 virus). I feel everyone should do that as well, for yourselves, and for others too!”


 

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

According to a media release from Gaston County Schools, spokesman Todd Hagans said that during their Board of Education meeting on Monday, June 15, the Board approved the following three principal appointments for the 2020-2021 academic year.
Mr. Chris Mills, previously the Director of Alternative Education, was appointed to serve as Principal at Webb Street School.
Kings Mountain resident and former CHS teacher, Matt Rikard, was appointed to serve as principal at Cherryville’s John Chavis Middle School.
Hagans noted that previously Mr. Rikard served as an assistant principal at Cramerton Middle School.
Mr. Ryan Smith was appointed to serve as Principal at H.H. Beam Elementary School.
Mr. Smith previously served as Principal for a number of years at John Chavis Middle School in Cherryville.

Customers glad to see familiar market back in business even if a month late in opening

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville first Farmer’s Market of 2020, a.k.a. the “quarantine year”, was well attended in spite of starting a month late and looking a little different than what most are used to seeing.
Market manager and Chamber Director Mary Beth Tackett said they had over 200 shoppers come by for the market’s first day back in business after the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown of markets across the state.
Said Mary Beth, “We had over 110 (customers) by our 8 a.m., opening, which wasn’t a bad showing for a first day of a market.”
Tackett also noted there were five vendors at this first 2020 market, with a “fan favorite” returning – Martha Pate of Pate’s Bakery, along with the other “food faves” of Lewis Farms, Leonhardt Farms and Sisk Farms. A newcomer for the CFM this year was Hospice of Cleveland County, whose booth was overseen by Krista Haynes, the Patient/Family Care Coordinator. The group is also a CFM sponsor.
If it looked like there was great space between the vendors, don’t worry, that was planned, said Mary Beth.
“We were practicing social distancing. All our vendors have to wear masks as well,” she added.
Leonhardt Farms’ vendor operators Ann Hall and Gail McGloghlin were back, as was Loyd Lewis of Lewis Farms (Fallston) and Noah Sisk of Sisk Farms.
Hall and McGloghlin both said they were glad to be back at the Cherryville Farmer’s Market. Ms. Pate agreed, saying she too was glad to be back in Cherryville at the much-loved market.
“Well, here I am! The cake and bread lady’s back! Honestly, I’ve missed everybody here in Cherryville, and I’m just gad to be back!” she said, with her characteristic big smile.
Loyd Lewis pulled his face mask down and said he too was glad to be back, adding, “It’s good to see that with this virus going on the people all came prepared, wearing their face masks. We’ll be able to continue the market with these good (heath) standards.”
Tackett noted that as the summer progresses, they will get more vendors back at the CFM.
When asked, she replied, “Yes. Freedom Farms Soaps will be back, and I am working to get new vendors added for this season.”
Customer Ron Tedder had on his face mask as he shopped for great food deals, making sure to check out each vendor before her left. He stopped to chat a bit with former CFM manager, Richard Randall, who dropped by to also pick up a few items of fresh produce before heading back to work.
Said Mr. Tedder, “I’m glad for the Cherryville market to be back open. They have great produce here!”



 

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

(Ed. note: This is Part Three of the Eagle’s “Heroes Work Here!” series showcasing those in our small community who work hard to make all of us in Cherryville safe during the coronavirus pandemic.)

Cherryville firefighters, like all who serve their towns and communities, along with their fellow public servants and employees, love their jobs and they love helping people.
That’s not to say it isn’t tough sometimes or that it’s easy; it’s not and many times it can be heartbreaking when things don’t go well on a call or there is imminent danger involved.
They are, as has always been said and duly noted, the ones “who rush in (toward danger) when others are rushing out (away from it).”
Nowhere is this more true than with the
two Hometown Heroes who have worked for the Cherryville Fire department for a total of 65-plus years: Capt. Chris “Pudge” Cash and Driver/Engineer Barry Heavner.
Said Barry, “I have been with the CFD for 27 years (paid); and 30 years overall.” For Chris, it has been 37 in the fire service overall; 21 of them at CFD, he noted.
Both of the men don’t think of themselves as “heroes” per se, and get a bit embarrassed by the reference, but they know that people tend to say such about firefighters and others first responders and law enforcement officers, nurses, and such during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For D/E Heavner, doing what he loves is about, “Making a difference about things, saving a life, giving a kid a smile, or watching him smile when you give him a (toy red) fire hat during Fire Day or at some school event.”
Cash agreed, adding, “For me it’s about the satisfaction of being able to help someone.”
Both said, “Doing good never gets old.”
Barry said it’s also about loving your home town (both men were born here, went to school here, and call Cherryville home).
“It used to be you knew everybody. Now, not so much as some have moved, passed away, or new people have moved here,” he said.
Captain Cash added, “Us knowing a lot of people helps us (in our job); people know us and they’re glad to see you. A familiar face goes a long way in what we do.”
Heavner agreed, saying, “Knowing there is somebody coming to help me that I can talk to. That helps a lot.”
The two firefighters know the Lord has blessed both of them as they go about their jobs.
Cash added to that by saying, “Yes. We’ve had a lot of good influences over the years. Most folks are kind of glad to see you (on a call).”
He continued. “We do a lot of things that most Fire Department’s don’t do, such as opening locked car doors, helping folks get into their houses, help with lifting folks, maybe sometimes helping them in with groceries; things like that.”
Said Heavner, “It’s the little things like that. They add up. It’s helping your community in the big things as well as in the little, or small things.”
The key, they both feel, to it all is teamwork.
Captain Cash said, “It takes all of us. All of our guys in the CFD are heroes. It’s not just us.”
Said Barry, “We all take great pride in what we do. Honestly, I never really thought about considering doing anything else. I don’t necessarily want recognition for it (being a ‘hero’). I love what I do.”
Chris indicated he feels the same way, and added, “It’s all about self-satisfaction in helping others as much as we can.”

 

Valedictorian – Avery Grace Walker: A State Employees Credit Union Scholarship recipient; CHS Star Student Award; 2020 Gaston Gazette “Best and Brightest” recipient, numerous outstanding subject awards from CHS; college: UNC – Chapel Hill, majoring in Nursing; she wants to pursue a career in Pediatric or Geriatric Nursing. She is the daughter of Reggie and Angela Walker.

“Good morning, afternoon, or evening, whatever time you are watching this graduation. 
“I am so honored to still be able to speak to you, even if it is through a screen. First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone who has gone out of their way in the most recent events to make this class feel so special due to COVID-19. Whether that be parents, faculty, City of Cherryville personnel, or local businesses, on behalf of the entire class of 2020, thank you all. You have been a ray of sunshine to us in this series of cloudiness. 
“So, here it is… graduation day. Who would have thought that our senior year would have been cut so short and that we wouldn’t be able to see each other in the process? Our class has surely been through it all, the good times... and the not so good times. But, through everything, we knew we could count on each other to be there for whatever adversity we had to face. We were never alone.
“We have faced many losses as a class. Some of those being parents, grandparents, siblings, and even past teachers, Ms. Boyer and Mrs. Camp. Some losses were milestones in our schooling years, such as a traditional eighth grade trip, senior trip, and of course, classic senior festivities. However, we always found a way to make things better by outweighing the negative with something positive. And I feel that we have defined ourselves as being one of the strongest classes to go through Cherryville High School.
“I have been given the responsibility to expand upon our past. However, I think that the sequence of events that we have experienced together, from the beginning, is what best defines us. Our story truly began as we underwent elementary school with nap time, the Fairytale Ball, space travel, the Q&U wedding that was 100 percent real and legal, many field days, field trips, and more. We hadn’t truly defined ourselves as 'the class with the perfect vision’ until we joined together in middle school, and what a crazy place that was. 
“Middle school will be remembered by all of us as going to break, attending dances, going to the Valentines’ Dance, travelling to Gatlinburg, and being the place where we are all actually kind of embarrassed of who we were and most importantly, of how we dressed. But, sometimes unfortunately, it defines us. Through that shame, we moved on to be high schoolers. Here, we would spend 'the best four years of our lives’; but instead it would be known as the best three and three-quarter years of our lives. 
“Our true bond with one another started as we all came together for one of our classmates as her brother had passed away. We gathered together to pray for Noah, the Hampton’s, and the Cherryville community as we lost a CHS family member. Through prayer and friendship, we flourished in a dark time.
“Senior year was one to remember, though. Some of the events that we were able to experience, such as having a tailgate for a senior breakfast before our last first day of school, having the greatest homecoming and spirit week C-Ville style, driving through town in a parade all to ourselves, and even that 91-90 overtime victory over North Lincoln where Lane tied the school record in points, with the help of us Metal Heads of course, were just some of the things that were truly unforgettable. “Adversity is defined as to be an unfavorable fortune or fate, and what is more unfavorable than having a pandemic ruin everything it possibly could. Unfortunate circumstances have been presented to us in many different situations, but we have always been able to overcome whatever curveball that has been thrown at us. 
“So this, my fellow graduates, is what I believe best defines our past: our ability to overcome adversity. With this being said, if we do all things together, we are unstoppable. With that mindset, we will continue to do great things. With our story, we can illuminate the lives of others.
“Thank you all for being such a big impact in my life. Without each and every one of you and your unique personalities, our past thirteen years would not have been as memorable. To the teachers, staff, parents, honorable speakers, and most importantly, to our Lord and Savior, thank you. We would not be the class we are today without your help, support, and prayers.
“Well, we’ve done it and we have been through it all. There is so much that we should all be proud of on this day. We are at the end of our journey together, but this isn’t the end.
“Remember, fellow classmates, always be yourself. This is how you will make the world a better place and make a difference. Be a difference maker.
“Congratulations Class of 2020!”

Salutatorian – Juliana Leigh Vollmer: Recipient of Merit Scholarships at The University of Pennsylvania and Wake Forest University; 2018 National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award; nominated for the Academies at Harvard; numerous outstanding subject awards from CHS; college: University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Biochemistry and Biophysics; wants to attend Medical School to obtain an MD and a PhD in Pathology and work with Doctors Without Borders Program. She is the daughter of Julia Vollmer and the late Pete Vollmer.

“Good morning faculty, friends, and family. I am humbled to have the honor of speaking to you today. 
“When I was told I would be giving the 'Future’ speech this year, I was elated. And terrified. What lesson should I impart? What would my audience like to hear? How could I write and deliver a memorable speech? These questions swirled through my head in a turbulent storm, each one capturing my attention for a split second before being pushed away by another, more pressing concern. Within that tornado of inquiries, I found a common theme: fear.
“Let’s go back to the first fear most of us experience: the fear of the dark. When I was young, I was terrified of the dark. I adamantly refused to walk outside at night or to sleep in a pitch-black bedroom. Even a night light wouldn’t dissuade my fear since the light would cast shadows along the walls, creating terrible and terrifying monsters before my imaginative eyes. To escape those horrendous beasts I would sleep in my parents’ bed. A nightly ritual of being tucked into my bed, imagining dark hands reaching out from the walls, and fleeing to my parents’ bedroom established itself. For years I would climb onto my parents’ bed, plant myself between them, and drift off to sleep. My parents’ were my protectors, my shields from the awful darkness. 
“My dad, wishing that he could sleep through the night without me kicking him in the back (I had quiet restless legs as a child), eventually decided that I needed to sleep in my own bed. Stubborn as I was, I defied my dad. I know, I know – it’s hard to believe that I went against the rules but believe me – I did. My fear was a powerful motivator. 
“Each night, after my dad tucked me into bed, I would sneak in and hide under my parents’ bed. Once my dad was asleep I would sneak back into my parents’ bed; back into my comfort zone.
“Now, I realize that I wasn’t scared of the darkness – there’s nothing inherently harmful about darkness. Instead, I was scared of what the darkness concealed and what it could create. In other words, I was fearful of the uncertainty. 
“We have experienced countless uncertainties. Our class was born in the aftermath of a tragedy and now we’re graduating amid a pandemic. Though the latter situation offers the ultimate 'back-in-my-day’ story, it is not our last uncertainty. Some of us will go to college, learning about and exploring the world. Some of us will enter the job force, earning wages and experience alike. Whether you choose one of these paths or create another, you will have uncertainty. Don’t try to avoid it or be rid of it.
“Uncertainty is natural and human and inevitable. The future IS uncertainty. But you can’t allow fear to stop you from growing. Don’t allow the darkness to lead you back into a stagnant comfort zone. 
“Take control and decide where you want to go. You don’t have to have a full-fledged plan; if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that the universe doesn’t really care about your 'to-do’ list. 
“Instead, take one step each day towards a goal. I used to sit in a dark room for one minute, then ten minutes, then an hour, accumulating time until I could step into the darkness without hesitation. Every step wasn’t the same size and I wasn’t always moving forward, but I wasn’t letting the uncertainty dictate what I could do or how far I could go. Sometimes, I fell. Today, I still fall – even in the light, even in certainty. Mistakes happen but they are proof that you’re trying and you’re changing.
“Now, I won’t make the mistake of forgetting those who’ve helped me. As I, and the school year, draw to a close, I’d like to say 'thank you’ 
“Thank you to my mother for helping me find security; thank you to my teachers and friends for being with me in the darkness; and thank you to my fellow classmates for taking this ride with me. Many of us came together four years ago and we’ve said goodbye to some classmates while embracing new ones each year. 
“Before we all part ways to follow our own paths, I’d like to challenge you all. I challenge you to not allow your fear to control you. I challenge you to leave your comfort zone, and I challenge you to embrace uncertainty. 
“Walk into your darkness and don’t stop until you find the light.”