Aug. 13 event saw many kids, parents, get supplies-stuffed backpacks for the new school year

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Last Saturday’s collection of school supplies-filled backpacks went pretty quickly, according to the event’s organizers and they were thrilled to see so many kids, their parents, grandparents, and others come by for the backpacks, as well as the free haircuts and the Table of Grace food. And did we mention the live Christian music provided by Brian Emerson and Kelly Eaker? That was outstanding as well!
Tents were set up on the front parking area of First United Methodist Church of Cherryville, the host church for this year’s giveaway, and each grade level had backpacks chock-full of the needed and grade-appropriate materials kids need to get off on the right foot their first day of school. From K through 12, every grade level was represented, with even a table full of generic backpacks there just in case more than those registered came by in need of supplies.
Chrystal Harmon and son Seth, 9, manned the kindergarten and first and grade table, along with Kathy Beam and daughter Anna Kathryn (6). Chrystal said several kids had come through that morning, adding that it “…all was going good.”
Second grade teacher Kelly Brown was at the second and third grade table with Gaston School Board representative from Cherryville, Beverly “Robbie” Lovelace and Dawn Moss. They agreed with Chrystal it was all “going good”, adding also that the crowds were “steady”.
Said Mrs. Brown, “Everybody has everything  they need to level the playing
field (for their first day back to school).”
When asked how she and her fellow teachers were faring regarding supplying their classrooms this year, Kelly noted, “Having the community’s support helps us get what we need for our classrooms.”
At the fourth and fifth grade tents, Teresa Allen and Kathy Eaker said they started out with 14 bags and were down to three.
“They really went fast!” said Ms. Allen.
At the sixth and seventh grade tent, the Sherrill brothers (Colin, Kevin, and Ethan) and their friends, Dylan Brittain and Benjamin LaSalle, had five bags left.
Off to the side of the church’s entranceway, members of Boy Scout Troop 78, which is sponsored by FUMC, waved at folks who passed by and invited them in for free hot dogs and to check things out, especially if they had any school-age children. The boys – Gabriel Patterson, Zachary Harmon, Jace Absher, Brock Gaston, and Shane Headrick – were led by Scoutmasters Andrew Harmon and Chester York. Scoutmaster Harmon said they have 13 members in their Troop.
Hair stylists Shannon Carpenter, Megan Harris (Southern Roots Salon), and Stephanie Digh (Modern Salon & Spa) provided free haircuts to many of the kids so they would look sharp their first day back to school.
Phebe Beam noted that everyone who came by has been cordial and appreciative of everything.
“It has been a blessing to see all these people come out,” she said. “It is also a blessing seeing these three young ladies (the hairstylists) giving of their time to do the Lord’s work.”
Kim Eaker, a long-time Cherryville community volunteer who has been affiliated with these backpack giveaways for some time now, noted the bags that were not picked up by kids that were registered will be dropped off at the schools, adding the other bags will be available for kids at Cherryville Area Ministries.
In an earlier Eagle article Ms. Eaker commented that, “We, as Christ followers, are called to take care of each other. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 12:4-5 NIV)

Hard work, caring parties create another Main Street gem in former downtown
destination

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Once again, all it took was a whole lot of hard work and some very caring and interested and talented individuals to turn a former Cherryville downtown destination into a Main Street work of architectural art. Of course, being able to invest a $1 million-plus into the project certainly helped.
The building at 116 E. Main St., was built, according to information received from Vickie Spurling Realty, in 1921, making it 101 years old. It is 7,140 square feet in size and now has four apartments upstairs; two two-bedroom apartments, approximately 850 square feet in size, and two one-bedroom apartment/lofts of approximately 600 square feet in size. All four apartments are actually different sizes, and all are complete with modern appliances. The downstairs space in comprised of one large retail space (1,000 square feet); five smaller spaces for retail or office use, noted Mrs. Spurling, all complimented by a beautiful, shared conference room, kitchen & restroom, she said.
On Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, a group of City of Cherryville staff, Chamber of Commerce staff, Cherryville Main Street staff, as well as representatives of Vickie Spurling Realty, Hoyle Construction, Upland Architecture, and others involved in the restoration of the old building, met inside the old building to essentially christen it and show off the finished project.
Patrick O’Leary, who has been involved with this and other completed (and future) restoration projects in Cherryville, welcomed everyone and said, “This has been our largest project on Main Street, taking three and half years. We ran into supply chain issues, but we are very proud of the job we have done here. The whole idea here in what we are doing in Cherryville is about rejuvenation, which you cannot have without people. To that end we have been building apartments here in downtown and we now have six so far.”
Chamber Board President Pete Craft also welcomed
everyone to the affair, catered by Susan Eason Caterers, and introduced Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, who said, after looking around at the beautiful interior of the room in which everyone met, “Here we have what we have long awaited and anticipated – a beautiful building on our Main Street, in Cherryville, where life blossoms.” Mayor Beam then went on to recognize Vickie Spurling Realty for spearheading the town’s building revival and all those construction contractors for all their hard work, as well as everyone who has helped make the Belk restoration project a completed dream come true.
Main Street Chairperson Donna Beringer said of the renovation, “It is over the top beautiful! And such a great addition to our downtown. I can’t thank them enough!”
Mr. O’Leary noted that he and Vickie worked together to make the Belk building “reno” happen, literally from the inside out.
Said O’Leary, “I want to thank everyone, for we received wonderful support, from Brian Dalton and the City staff, the Chamber’s David Day and Mary Beth Tackett, just everyone! Thank you all! We are very excited about the Streetscape Project and can’t wait to see what it’s all going to look like once it is finished.”
Patrick also noted all of the vendors were local people, “Most notably the renovation team headed by General Contractor Hoyle Construction’s Chris Spurling; Project Manager Vickie Spurling of Vickie Spurling Realty; Upland Architects of Shelby’s Mark Patterson (who said he has worked on six projects for Mr. O’Leary and Spurling Realty); Construction Superintendent, Hoyle Construction, Vic Hoyle; Max Baxter Roofing’s Andrew Baxter; Joe Eaker of All American HVAC; Dellinger Electric’s Gary Dellinger; Heath Jackson of Heath Jackson Plumbing; Richard Blanton of Gaston Sprinkler; Logan Stevens of Stevens Interiors (the tin ceilings); Rodney Fredell of R&R Dunrite Floors; Derrick Hoskins of Derrick Hoskins Hardwood Flooring Finish for the second floor work; Brian Francis for the Sheetrock/Firestop work; Geoff Slusser of Unique Audio Video, Cable Communications; Mike Clark of Modern Security (fire system; Donald Alexander of A&A Painting; Chuck Sneed (brick work); Kent Spurling (VSR) for the signage, IT and graphic design; James Lail of Cherryville Signs (photo prints and art; Pam & Hubert McGinnis, McGinnis Furniture; and Jennifer Hoyle for cleaning.
A brief history of the was noted by the many tour guides who led folks throughout the building showing off some of the building’s features.
On the wall of the central hall is a copy of the 1914 Sanborn Insurance map which shows the three wooden buildings which stood on the original site of the Belk building. The Belk building was also listed as having been an auto repair garage in 1925.
Tour guide Noah Abernethy noted that, according to his guide noted, Belk-Matthews occupied the building and the two adjacent buildings from 1936 to the end of 1998. A Charlotte Observer article from December 1998 noted Belk’s announced the store was closing. The building, a Cherryville landmark, is still affectionately known to everyone in town today as The Belk Building.
Belk’s was founded in 1888 and by the 1990s it had over 300 stores in the South – mostly partnerships with local merchandisers. The Cherryville store was originally a partnership with the Matthews family and was the 125th store opened by the Belk organization. In 2016 the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places as one of 53 contributing buildings that make up The Cherryville Downtown Historic District.
An interesting note is that during construction Vickie noted their crews exposed a painted sign on what was originally on the exterior of 114 East Main Street. The sign is dated “1912” and says “JF Carpenter Restaurant”
“We know from photographs that an identical sign was also painted on the West Side of 114 East Main,” she said.
Mr. O’Leary also thanked building neighbors Alice Sisk and Max Rainwater who graciously gave their support for the removal of the large green metal transom and awning.
“This  was difficult and required their support and cooperation of Max Rainwater and Alice Sisk our neighbors on either side, and for that we thank them,” he said.
While the large shop front’s future is under discussion with a number of potential tenants, Mr. O’Leary and Mrs. Spurling both noted the offices on the other side of the building will be used for Mr. Jas Taylor’s Print 3-D business, and Mr. Reggie Walker from Unishippers will operate his shipping business out of the other.
There are three other spaces available and if anyone is interested they may call Vickie Spurling Realty regarding those spaces.
As for that is next on the two’s projects development list?
Said Vickie, “Our next project is a complete renovation and restoration of The Fish Box on First Street. The architects have completed their first draft drawings and we have cleared the lot behind it. We will start construction soon.”
They also intend to build more apartments on Main St., and 126 West Main Street’s three-story building will most likely be next to start construction.
“We plan eight apartments and a parking lot across the street on the corner of Main and Mulberry. The building will also have an elevator,” she noted.

Young chief serious about getting new volunteers to serve the community

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville native and Cherryville Fire Department Captain Trent “Bam Bam” Rayfield has recently become the chief at Hugh’s Pond Volunteer Fire Department, a.k.a. HPVFD, Unit 72.
The fire department is located on Tot Dellinger Rd., just west of Cherryville.
Rayfield, 25, said the volunteer fire department, which has been around since 1976, had as their previous chief, Aaron Vance, Jr., who was the head man from 2916 until just last month.
“Bam Bam” said, like many other firefighters – volunteer and paid – he had a dream of doing what he is doing now since childhood.
At HPVFD Rayfield said they are all “100 percent volunteer”, just as he is for the department; in other words no one gets paid to do what they do for their little community or any of the others nearby to which they lend mutual aid with personnel and equipment.
They are, like other departments, having a bit of a problem – warm bodies (in the way of volunteers and workers) are very hard to come by in this post-COVID world.
“We’re proud we are a 100 percent volunteer force,” said Rayfield, adding the force there was “20-strong!”
Rayfield, a 2014 CHS graduate, has been with the CFD for a number of years, but has only been a captain there for a year.
As far as HPVFD’s crew and their training are concerned, Rayfield noted they have to have “…at least 36 hours per year, which is required by the state in order to remain on the state’s roster of active fire departments. We have to do this every year.”
Rayfield said he will soon have his Associates in Fire Protection Technology and hopes to have his Bachelor’s degree, which he plans to take at either Western Carolina University or Eastern Kentucky University.
He said his parents – Mom Roxanne and his late father, Timothy, have always been very supportive of his being a firefighter. He has a sister, Kasey and an older brother, Ryan, and he was raised as a Baptist.
As for the HPVFD, Rayfield noted that former Chief Vance left them in “good shape”.
“I would like to work on getting more volunteers. That’s the struggle right now; not just here, but everywhere, for smaller departments,” he said. “We have reached out on social media and have had a couple of interested individuals. It’s all about us building a better rapport with our community; everyone we serve,” he said.
Hugh’s Pond, according to “Bam Bam”, has a response time of about three and a half minutes, which is roughly what small VFD’s average. Still, he said, “We still need more personnel!”
When asked about his Hanna-Barbera cartoon Flintstone’s character-related nickname, Rayfield smiled and told the following story, “When I was about one and half to two years old, he was over to a neighbor’s house with a wiffle baseball bat in his hand, hitting things with it, so a friend of his mom’s gave him the handle and it has stuck ever since.
Rayfield’s hobbies, when he isn’t answering fire calls or on duty at CFD or HPVFD, include dirt track racing and fishing; not in that order, mind you.
“I do a little fishing when I can find the time,” he said, with a bit of a smile.
One thing young Rayfield is definitely serious about is getting more volunteers.
“Anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer at Hugh’s Pond, or any fire department, really, or is interested in working as a volunteer firefighter at Hugh’s Pond, can call us at (704) 435-5642, or email us at hughspond@yahoo.com.
Said Chief Rayfield, “We think of ourselves as a family here, so we are looking for any volunteers to join and become a part of our family!”
 

Submitted by
SHELLEY CAMPBELL

The Miss Fourth of July Pageant was held on Friday evening, July 2, at the Cherryville Community Building. It was an official event of the big Independence Day celebration presented by the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce.
The following is a list of the winners, princesses, and award recipients: BITSY MISS: Bella Mae Flowers; MINIATURE MISS: Chrislyn Shook; TINY MISS: Gabrielle Shedd; LITTLE MISS: Vivian Medrano; YOUNG MISS: Savannah Hubbard; MAJESTIC MISS (overall winner): Skylar Blackburn; PRINCESSES: Zoey Haney, Emmalynn Burdette, Montana Kiser, Ahri Medlin, Olivia West, Kaylee Lamberth, Miley Littlejohn, and Lacey Lamberth; SIGNATURES (crown pin winners): Emmalynn Burdette, Chrislyn Shook, Gabrielle Shedd, Ahri Medlin, Skylar Blackburn, Savannah Hubbard; SIGNATURES (overall winner): Bella Mae Flowers; PHOTOGENIC (people’s choice overall winner): Savannah Hubbard; PHOTOGENIC (finalists for people’s choice): Skylar Blackburn, Chrislyn Shook, Ahri Medlin, Gabrielle Shedd; and FIRST APPLICATION AWARD: Ahri Medlin.

He is looking forward to the start of school, which is Wednesday, Aug. 17

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville’s W. Blaine Beam Intermediate – home of the Falcons – has a new captain at the helm of the ship, or chief Falcon, if you will, in the person of principal, Joshua White.
He is quick to tell you he is looking forward to the start of school, which is Wednesday, Aug. 17, so he can meet some of the students and introduce himself.
Mr. White is a Cherryville native, and admits becoming an education professional was not his first choice, originally, for a profession, so far as he was concerned at the time, way back in his high school days.
“If you would have told me back then that I would come back here as a principal, I would’ve definitely laughed at you (and, he added, so would his teachers)!”
Joshua said he grew up on Sellerstown Road and Academy Street before graduating from Cherryville High in 2005.
He is married to his wife, Betsy (11 years) and they have a 5-year-old daughter, Kassie, who he noted “…starts kindergarten this August.” The couple still reside in Gastonia, he said.
He continued, “After graduating from CHS, I ended up at UNC-Charlotte majoring in finance and banking. While on a Summer mission trip where I got to teach and coach, I felt led to (the field of) education so I changed my major when I got back home and never looked back. I finished at Charlotte with a degree in history and education.”
White said he began his educational career in Gaston County Schools as a teacher assistant at Lingerfeldt Elementary.
“That really prepared me to have my own classroom, and in 2013, I began teaching history and coaching football, basketball, and baseball at Southwest Middle School in Gastonia. In 2018, I began as an assistant principal at Southwest and remained there for four years before being appointed principal at W.B. Beam Intermediate this year.”
Mr. White noted he is “…excited to return home to serve the community that provided me with a great education and a great upbringing,” adding, “I plan on working tirelessly to showcase how amazing our students and teachers are. I know how strong our schools have always been in Cherryville, and I look forward to being a part of continuing that tradition of excellence.”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Elementary has a new principal in the person Mr. Patrick Watson. He takes over the helm from Mrs. Audrey Hovis who is pursuing other education avenues.
Watson hails from Cleveland County where he said both of his parents were involved teaching or education in some way.
“I grew up in Shelby, N.C.,” he said, “and both my parents were in education. My mother, Margaret Watson, was an AIG teacher for Cleveland County Schools and my father, Earl Watson, was Superintendent of Cleveland County Schools before he retired.”
Watson continued, “After graduating from Crest High School, I attended and graduated from Western Carolina University with a BA in English. A few years later, I graduated from Gardner-Webb University with a Master of Arts in Leadership.”
Watson is the father of three, whom he lovingly calls his “wonderful children”; Lucy, Emmett, and Eli.
Watson credits his parents as being “a big influence” in his decision to work in the education profession.
“I felt a calling to make a difference in the lives of other people as an educator,” he said, adding his “…first teaching job was at Chase High School in Rutherford County.”
He continued, “I taught English there for two years before accepting an English position at Crest High School.”
Watson noted that Cherryville Elementary is his first school as a principal, but added he has been in supervisory positions previously.
“I was appointed assistant principal at Southwest Middle School from 2012 – 2017, and an AP at Bessemer City Central Elementary from 2017 – 2022,” he said.
As for continuing the Little Ironmen traditions for which the school is so proud, he said, “We would like to continue to build on the wonderful things happening at Cherryville Elementary.  We are looking for a parent to lead our PTO for the upcoming school year, and we would like to remind parents of kindergarten students to register them as soon as possible. I am extremely excited to be principal at Cherryville Elementary, and I look forward to meeting all of our students and parents in August.”
For any questions or information about the kindergarten programs at Cherryville Elementary, calll (704) 836-9115, or visit them on the Gaston County Schools website.

Many friends and co-workers came by and shared pizza and memories of good times

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The staff and family of the Cherryville Family YMCA said a fond “See you later”, coupled with a heartfelt “We love ya!” to long-time manager/administrator Butch Boyd last Wednesday, June 29.
Boyd, who has been with the YMCA since May 2, 2007, and his wife of 54 years, Kathy, were the guests of honor at pizza party given in his honor at the new Cherryville YMCA, on Mountain Street.
All of Boyd’s friends and co-workers were there as well as many Y members who all came by to not only wish him well in his retirement but to wish him Happy Birthday as well since Wednesday was also his 76th birthday.
Gaston County Family YMCA CEO Sharon Padgett noted that Butch first started at the Stowe Family Y, manning the front desk, then moved over to the Central Y and worked front desk there.
She said, in a recent email to the Eagle, “He came to the Cherryville Y in 2010 and never looked back!”
Mr. Boyd said he has also worked in 2008 for the Billy Graham Ministries on a part-time and full-time basis in the past, thoroughly enjoying that work as he was able to witness about his Christian faith and his deeply held belief in God and His Son, Jesus Christ.
Boyd said he had two strokes while working for the BGEA and had to leave as a result of that, but added he truly loved being there.
He and Kathy have two children, Gary, 52, and Lea Ellen Binderup, 48. The Boyd’s (Butch and Kathy) are the grandparents of three, and enjoy spending time with them when they can do so.
Of his retirement, Butch said though he planned to retire at the first of 2022 but things didn’t go quite as planned. He is currently battling a health issue but thanks to his strong faith in God and with the help of his family and friends, he said he is going to continue to get better.
As for retirement, Boyd said, “Honestly, I don’t know what I’m going to do now that I’m retiring. I’m a true workaholic! I have worked since I was 16,” he said.
Boyd served his country, he said, in the Vietnam War, from 1967 to 1968 and was there, he added, during the bloody Tet Offensive.
His friend and fellow Cherryville Family ‘Y’ employee, Sandy Homesley (Accounts Payable), said she was going to miss working with him on a daily basis, but she said he mentioned to her and others he will try as much as he can to try and get by to see them every now and then.
“I have worked with Butch now for 15 years,” she said. “We both have good memories of being here at the Cherryville Y. I will never forget him and those memories and the people we have known and have gotten to join the Y. Our legacy here together is, I believe, is helping all those people have a healthier lifestyle. Our members are our mission; I really believe that.”
Employee Debbie Lesenger, who has worked with Butch for six years, said, “I’m definitely going to miss him. He is fun to work with. His Christian life bled over into his work life.”
New Cherryville Family YMCA director Josey Messer said that while he only got to work with Butch for six months, Butch is “irreplaceable”.
Messer continued, “The community impact; the relationships he has cultivated and created; this means for me to hear. He (Butch) has touched the full triangle (Spirit. Mind, Body) of who we are at the Y and what we do.”
Ms. Padgett continued in her praise for Butch by noting, “He has served as our Number One Ambassador in Cherryville. He has taught group exercise classes at Peak (Resources); water aerobics at the Cherryville pool; Silver Sneakers classes at the Cherryville Y; started the ‘Live Y’rs’ senior social hour at the Y. He and Sandy Homesley (his side kick) have made the Cherryville Y a place to belong for many people over the years. He has invited many of his classes to his house for pool parties; he has prayed for almost every person at the Cherryville Y and he has spoken at the funerals of some of his dearest friends from the Cherryville Y.”
Padgett further stated, “Butch didn’t just show up for work – he showed up every day for his purpose! His purpose was to love people through the Y and share the love of Christ through his daily example at the Y. His daily presence will be missed, but I know without a doubt that you will see him from time to time sitting at the table, drinking his sweet, sweet tea and fellowshipping with his best friend...YOU, the Y member!”

Next MFP event is Monday, July 25; Aug. 13 is school supplies giveaway

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The many volunteers and workers who came out last Monday, June 27, to help St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Mobile Food Pantry ministry distribute food were fulfilling two of Christ’s commands to all believers – feed those who are hungry and help those who are in need.
One of the coordinators, Kim Eaker, noted the volunteers started working at 7:30 a.m., until noon, adding that the actual event runs from 10 a.m. until the supplies they have received to give out are all distributed. Another on-site was Ms. Barbara Decker, who is the Director of Community Affairs and Outreach Manager for the Mobile Food Pantry.
Kim also noted, as for time involved with the distribution, that, “On average we are done by 11:30 a.m.”, adding that Monday’s Mobile Food Pantry was hosted by the Cherryville Ministerial Association.
Eaker continued, “Hosting consists of paying for the truck’s transportation fee. Each Mobile Food Pantry is hosted (each month) by a different association, individual or group.”
For example, she stated that April’s pantry was hosted by Martha Beam; May’s pantry was hosted by First Presbyterian Church; July will be hosted by Mt. Zion Baptist Church; August will be hosted by the Eastern Star and September will be hosted by First United Methodist Church.
“On the actual day (of the distribution event) we have many volunteers from different churches. We  also  had students from John Chavis Middle School and Cherryville High School,” she said.
As for the food, she noted it is donated by Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.
“We were given 31,782 pounds of food. We served 144 families, which equals 349 people,” Ms. Eaker said.
The Mobile Food Pantry has been going on now for two years, Kim noted, adding, “We started the mobile pantry in 2020. Cherryville Area Ministries partners with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina and St. John’s Lutheran Church has partnered with us so we may use their parking lot as the hosting site. This is a group effort that requires time and dedication from all who volunteer.”
Eaker said their next Mobile Food Pantry food distribution will be on Monday, July 25, and she also is asking the community to come out and join them on Aug. 13 “…for a morning dedicated to giving to (the) children of the Cherryville community” by their giving out school supplies on that date.
Said Ms. Eaker, “The church hosting that event this year is First United Methodist Church, and it will be from 10 a.m., until 12 noon.”
St. John’s Lutheran Church is located at 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, she said, adding for folks to please call Barbara at (704) 435-9264 (at St. John’s Lutheran) in order to register your children for that event starting now from now until July 30.
“We will also offer free haircuts the day of. When you call to register, please register for that also. There will also be special praise music. The Table of Grace will serve hotdogs with all the trimmings. This is a community event with churches and organizations in Cherryville,” she said.

SIT/REP: North alley almost complete with construction still slated to be completed by early fall

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

In a recent media release, Downtown Main Street Director David Day said Cherryville’s Mayor H.L. Beam, III praised the work that has been done so far, especially on the town’s sidewalks.
Said Mr. Day in the release, “Mayor H.L. Beam enthusiastically toured the first sidewalks to be poured as part of the downtown revitalization and praised Cherryville’s citizens for their vision and patience.”
“We’re all excited to see this moment,” said Beam. “Our citizens took a bold step. Now, they’re seeing our dream take shape.”
Day noted Mayor Beam was “particularly complimentary” of the citizens, downtown merchants, and owners.
“They’ve been really great,” said Beam. “Huge projects like this challenge us all. But they’ve more than met the test.”
Mr. Day noted Director of Public Works Brandon Abernathy said that the construction crews working downtown have battled the weather and shortages of materials and laborers.
Said Mr. Abernathy, “We really appreciate how diligent they’ve been to keep making progress. They’ve worked around every problem.”
Cherryville City Manager Brian Dalton said the plan is still to continue working west, section by section.
“Now that the first section is poured, we’re really going to see things move,” said Dalton, who also noted that once
the North Alley is complete, they will move to the South Alley to begin repaving there as well.
Downtown Director Day said he is in touch with merchants and citizens alike.
“We’re posting regularly on our website and on our Facebook page,” Day said, adding, “I talk to citizens every day. I hear about problems. But I also sense people’s enthusiasm. Seeing the progress is exciting for us all.”
Citizens with any questions can contact Mr. Day at the Chamber of Commerce at (704) 435-3451.

 

New urgent care will provide a number of services and be open 7 days a week

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

A new clinic has opened its doors to service Cherryville’s citizens, touting its motto as “Heal Better. Feel Better”.
MainStreet Family Care, an Alabama-based urgent care clinic, held a ribbon cutting last Thursday, June 16, at their location at 2501 Lincolnton Hwy., in Cherryville, just in front of the Walmart. Its doors will be open seven days a week.
Company spokesperson Betsy Stewart said they have been in North Carolina for a while now, with an initial location in Locust, NC. With Stewart was Whitney Letman, the company’s Marketing Coordinator and Community Engagement specialist.
Offering a host of services from COVID-19 rapid antigen testing to pregnancy tests, the urgent cares slick brochure also lists services such as state-of-the-art digital x-rays, sports and work physicals, to stitch-ups, burn treatments, UTI treatment and flu shots and vaccinations.
Spokesperson Betsy Stewart said they take Medicare and Medicaid managed plans as well as all major insurance
programs.
“We also provide a self-pay option,” said Stewart, who added that is $125. The brochure also notes they are “…committed to providing affordable, quality healthcare” to all.
Stewart also noted their staff includes an MD (a Dr. Taylor), located in Birmingham, to whom they communicate any health questions or requests requiring his expertise, as well as two in-house Nurse Practitioners and a Regional Medical Director (a Dr. Wood), who, with their other rotating staff of two teams (on-site at the ribbon cutting were: Dylan Lageman, Clinic Manager; Destiny Richardson; Beau Wakefield; and Brittani Heffner) are all there to provide for their client’s every medical and health needs and treatment.
Stewart noted the company, which started in 2015 and has over 15 sites across the South, also offers in-line registration, primary care, and occupational medicine.
Chamber Board Chairman Pete Craft welcomed everyone from City officials and staffers and City Council members to a handful of the community’s business and financial leaders for coming out on “such a warm day”, and said if the organization needs anything from the Chamber, don’t hesitate to ask.
Mayor H.L. Beam, III agreed, echoing Mr. Craft’s sentiments, adding, “We (the City) started lobbying for an urgent care clinic about 10 years ago”, noting the City is now blessed to have a number of them now, with another on the way.
“Please know,” he continued, “You are just a call away from City Hall if you need us for anything.”
Ms. Letman, the group’s Marketing Coordinator, said their organization is “…glad to be in Cherryville.”
Mr. Craft concluded by telling the MainStreet Family Care staff the Chamber and the City are “…looking forward to great things” happening for them.
MainStreet Family Care’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There is no appointment required as you can register online at www.mainstreetfamilycare.com. You can also call them at (704) 445-7162.

Funds will help organization promote the impact of underage drinking in the community

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

ABC store General Manager Allen Fraley and members of the Cherryville ABC Board gave a check for $3,000 to the Cherryville Shrine Club on Wednesday, June 8.
The NC Association of ABC Boards has a program, “Talk It Out”, part of its Alcohol Education Fund program, which annually works with various organizations in the state to utilize funds from store profits to assist with community betterment efforts at the local level.
According to the NC ABC website, the “Initiative to Reduce Underage Drinking” underscores the “Talk It Out NC multi-media campaign” which, as per the site’s info, “…was launched in 2014 by the NC ABC Commission to combat underage drinking by undertaking relevant research, spreading education about alcohol’s health risks, and raising awareness about the resources available to families, both in person and online.”
Mr. Fraley, in presenting the $3,000 to the Cherryville Shrine Club, noted the ABC boards are required to make a distribution of profits every year to organizations that make a difference in their community. This year, he said, “The Board voted to give it to the Cherryville Shrine Club.”
Shrine Club Treasurer Russell Wingfield, along with Club Vice President Bill Moss, accepted the check, thanking Fraley and the ABC Board members present at the presentation. Representing the ABC Board were Chairman James Russell Beam, Jr., Gail Jenkins, and Tim Moss.
Mr. Wingfield said, “We, as the Cherryville Shrine Club, appreciate the support of the community and the ABC Board, as they have given it to us throughout the years.”
Mr. Beam said, “I appreciate the Shriners and all they do for the community.”
Mr. Fraley noted that as the store’s sales increase they hope to be able to “bump up” the gift.
Mrs. Jenkins said of the generous gift, “I think it is wonderful. This (Shriners) organization does such good work for everyone!”
Club First Vice President Bill Moss noted, “Everything we do is about the kids.”
In a letter to Mr. Fraley, Shriner’s Club President Charles McCants stated, “These funds will help us to promote the impact of underage drinking in our community while working with local Shriners during various fundraising activities.”
McCants further stated in his letter, “We are planning to update our discussions and displays to incorporate underage drinking during our 2022 events. This will include our information stations at the Cherryville July 4th celebration; our fall Cruise-In; and golf tournament planned for this fall. We will also plan a program during our family Christmas gathering.”
Regarding that Cruise-In, Shrine Club Treasurer Wingfield noted the club’s first Cruise-In was held on May 14, at the Cherryville NAPA Auto Parts Store, located at 1313 Shelby Hwy., where they raised $500.
“We had around 50 cars and we thought this was a good showing for a first-time event. We will have another in the early fall at same location,” he said.

Chief Albert L. Painter’s end of watch came on Jan. 16, 1928

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

As part of National Law Enforcement Day, Cherryville Police Chief Cam Jenks and some of his officers remembered the City’s only fallen law enforcement officer, the late Police Chief Albert L. Painter, on Friday, May 20 by laying a wreath at his headstoane, which is located in St. John’s Lutheran Church’s cemetery.
A brief message was given and a prayer was offered by CPD Chaplain Will Upchurch, pastor of Long Creek Presbyterian Church. The wreath was laid by Chief Jenks’ 10-year-old son, Aiden.
Chief Jenks said the theme of this year’s was “Back The Badge NC” and their observance was just a small part of a state-wide memorial to those officers in the state who have been killed in the line of duty.
“The memorial is a way for all of us to thank our law enforcement officers for protecting and serving our communities,” noted Chief Jenks. “And in the process, we at CPD want to also thank all those who brought us food, desserts, and small goody bags.”
He noted how a group started an “Adopt-A-Cop” program in Mount Holly when Officer Tyler Herndon was killed, adding that CPD is part of that program. He said the person who started and organized the Back The Badge NC program lives in the Winston-Salem area and is the wife of a law enforcement officer.
“We also want to thank the churches and others of our community who reached out to us and provided meals,” he said.
Chief Jenks noted other fallen officers were honored at Gaston County’s ceremony earlier that week.
Said Chief Jenks, “We, the men and women of the Cherryville Police Department, are all very appreciative of the gifts and well-wishes we received from the public. It is very important we never forget these fallen heroes that sacrificed it all for our safety and freedom.
Jenks thanked his officers who were able to be at the ceremony as well as Chaplain Upchurch and St. John’s pastor, the Rev. G. Scott Homesley. Officers present or involved in the ceremony that day were (in addition to Chief Jenks): Det. Lt. Mark Stout; Lt. Brandon Parker; Sgt. Wes Bennett; and patrol officers Jessica Richardson and Grayson Stout.
Chief Jenks said all of his officers and staff received a goody bag, including their newest officer, Ayko, the K-9 officer, who is handled by Sgt. Josh Colvard.

 

Courses taught to enable Scouts to earn the appropriate merit badge  

LINCOLNTON – This past weekend (May 14-15) members of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Land Search team were at Camp Bud Schiele in Rutherfordton, NC, teaching Search and Rescue (SAR) Merit Badge to some 216 Scouts. The Scouts present were from 11 counties surrounding Lincoln County.
Taking part in this was retired Cherryville Fire Department Captain and current Sergeant in charge of Special Operations for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Trent Carpenter.
Lieutenant Larry Seagle, of the LCSO, said the SAR Merit Badge covers topics like First Aid, Land Navigation, Incident Command System, Search Tactics, and careers in Search and Rescue.
“Part of the Merit Badge also required the Scouts to participate in a mock search which was conducted on the Scout Reservation Saturday afternoon, May 14, 2022,” he said.

Cherryville’s Business; Chamber Member; and Citizen of the Year honored at May 12 gala

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The night of Thursday, May 12, 2022 annual gala and banquet was a great night for those members of the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce who are not just members of our community at large but are businesses and citizens that provide so many great services and love to this great small town in the northwestern corner of Gaston County.
The annual Chamber of Commerce meeting took place last Thursday night at the Cherryville Golf and Country Club and was opened up with a welcome and acknowledgement of all who came that night by Chamber Board of Directors chairman Pete Craft. Mr. Craft recognized and thanked the Board, asking those members present to stand, congratulating them on all their hard work. In addition to Craft (Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home), the following members are: Mary Beth Tackett (Director/Events Coordinator); Jhoan Alfaro (Alfaro Media Designs); Donna Beringer (Carolina Federal Credit Union); Emily Blackburn (Piedmont Lithium); Johnny Brown (Allstate Insurance); Sarah Chambers (Peak Resources); Barry Heavner (Houser Drug Co.); Emily Hurst (FleetNet America); Hannah Garrett (Carpenter – Porter Funeral Home and Cremation Services); Pam McGinnis (McGinnis Furniture of Cherryville, Inc.); Steve Panton (City of Cherryville); Casey Blair Sipe (Modern Printing Co.); and Vickie Spurling (Vickie Spurling Realty).
Craft then called on Mayor H.L. Beam, III who came up and also welcomed everyone, adding, “We are proud of our Chamber.” Beam also mentioned other events put on by the Chamber, noting that this year’s Independence Day celebration will be moved to Rudisill Stadium this year due to the street construction going on in downtown.
After the invocation by Mr. Craft, Chamber Director Tackett gave the review of the past year 2021, a section of the night’s festivities normally reserved for Events Committee Chairman Gary Dellinger, who was currently out of town.
She showed a brief video of the Year in Review, which met with acclaim by those present, and she recognized the event’s sponsors as well as the program sponsors. Those sponsors were: Carolina Federal Credit Union; the Cherryville Eagle; Cherryville Golf and Country Club; Cherryville Little Theater; City of Cherryville; Dellinger Electric; Modern Printing Company; Sheila Houser, CPA; and Upchurch Garden Center.
The three awards were sponsored by the following: Member of the Year (Calvin Hastings/KTC Broadcasting); Business of the Year (Vickie Spurling Realty); and Citizen of the Year (Patrick O’Leary).
Craft then took the podium and did a brief “Looking Back” aspect in which he commented at the end of his remarks that, “It takes different people to make things happen in a community. Always remember your small businesses and support them.”
The event them moved on to the presentation of the three awards and resultant speeches and comments.
Starting things off was Chamber 2022 Events Committee member Tina Clark who introduced the Member of the Year, Hannah Garrett, of Carpenter – Porter Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Garrett thanked the Chamber and her husband, Scott, as well as the citizens of Cherryville for their love and support, adding that while she wasn’t originally a Cherryville native, she truly loves the community and the love and honor they have given since they arrived.
Former Cherryville mayor, Wade Stroupe, presented the Business of the Year award to Houser Drug. Co-owner/operator and pharmacist Tim Moss, co-owner Don Beam, and co-owner H.L. Beam, III, came up and received the award. Moss spoke about what being one of the oldest businesses means to them and of their love for, and service to, the Cherryville community.
Lastly, the Citizen of the Year award was introduced by Mr. Don Lawrence, who spoke glowingly of the recipient, Dr. Thomas Rhyne White.
“I am proud to call him not just my doctor but my friend and mentor, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than him,” said Lawrence.
Doctor White took the podium and thanked the Chamber as well as his family and many friends present, noting that his and his wife’s decision to move back to Cherryville from Charlotte all those years ago, added to the love of the good folks of Cherryville, many of whom have been his patients at one time or another, has all culminated in this august award.
Mr. Craft, after the presentation of the awards, gave the closing remarks and the evening drew to a close.
(Additional information by Susan L. Powell)

Construction slated to be completed by late summer

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

In a recent media release, Downtown Director David Day noted Cherryville City officials say that despite some delays, construction crews are making great progress on the revitalization project in Downtown Cherryville with completion set for late summer.
“Meanwhile,” said Mr. Day, “businesses remain open.”
City Manager Brian Dalton said, “We’re making great progress on our downtown revitalization, but we’re being flexible as we work through challenges.”
Dalton continued, “As is the case with any large project, the crews have worked through delays caused by the weather, availability of materials and workers, and unforeseen construction issues.”
He further noted, “To keep us moving forward, we’ve slightly changed our plan. Soon we’ll work on replacing the sidewalks and light poles from Depot Street to Pink Street. At the same time, we’ll repave the north and south alleys.”
Said Mr. Dalton. “That’s going to allow folks to park behind the buildings and use the rear entrances while we work on Main Street.”
City Manager Dalton also noted that after the alleys are paved, the work will begin on replacing sidewalks and light poles from Pink Street to Mulberry Street.
Downtown Director Day emphasized that repaving Main Street and side streets will occur last.
Said Mr. Day, “We’re all looking forward to that great day. Our citizens have been very patient, and I know they will be excited with us to see the project complete. We’re planning a celebration in the early fall.”
For any citizens who have further questions about the ongoing Main Street construction work, Mr. Day said they may contact him at (704) 435-3451.

Far-reaching agenda looking for stakeholders who want to change their future

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

In a series of Community Engagement workshops, Gaston VISION 2040 has officially launched their ongoing efforts to get input on farsighted goals to make the county a better place to live for our children.
The group’s main question is this: “Are you interested in the future of Gaston County? Let’s have a conversation”, and their primary goal, as stated on the group’s web site and a flier handed out at the Cherryville (and other subsequent) meeting(s), is “To engage county residents, businesses, and organizations in dialogue about their desires for the future of Gaston County, and to use that dialogue, along with an examination of data and trends, to create a VISION for what Gaston County can achieve between now and 2040.”
Furthermore, it is noted (also on the group’s information and web site) that “A community vision is an image of a community’s future. It describes the desired outcome – a place where participants agree they want to journey together.”
On Tuesday, April 12, at 3 p.m., Cherryville was the first spot selected to open up the first round of Community Engagement meetings, according to information from Gaston VISION 2040 (GV2040) and their steering committee, comprised of the following members:
Deborah Ally (Chair); Gaston County YMCA CEO Sharon Padgett (Acting Chair); Donyel Barber; Brandon Bellamy; Gaston County School Superintendent Dr. W. Jeffery Booker; Asst. Chief Nancy Brogdon; Stephen Crane; Cherryville Downtown Director David Day; Gaston County’s Dr. Kim Eagle; the Rev. Dr. Rodney Freeman; Juan Garcia; Thomas Gillespie; Vincent Ginski; Rev. Ray Hardee; Carl A. Harris, Sr.; Dr. Kelvin Harris; Steven Long; Ernest Sumner, II; Natalie Tindol; Dr. Valerie Holmes-Waddell; and Diana Willman.
That first meeting at Cherryville’s Community Building was followed by other meetings on April 12 (at 7 p.m., Bessemer City); April 14 at 3 p.m. (Gaston County Citizens Resource Center in Dallas); and April 14 at 7 p.m., at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church (Gastonia).
There are to be meetings on Wednesday, April 27 at The Pointe Church in Belmont (at 2 p.m.), and Wednesday, April 27, at 7 p.m., at Belmont Abbey College Haid Theater. On Saturday, April 30, at 10 a.m., a Zoom Session is scheduled (find the link at www.gaston2024.com).
Sharon Padgett, the Acting Chairperson, noted a second round of workshops, as per a handout at the first Cherryville session, will be held to build on the topics discussed from the first round of meetings. Those second-round workshops are scheduled for Tuesday, May 24, at 3 and 7 p.m.; Wednesday, May 25, at 3 and 7 p.m.; Thursday; May 26, at 3 and 7 p.m.; and another Saturday Zoom meeting for May 28, at 10 a.m. The meetings are roughly 90 minutes each, Padgett noted.
After introductions at the Cherryville stakeholders meeting, emcee Glenn Walters, of Asheville’s Design Workshop, gave a presentation of the group’s goals, using the VISION’s talking points.
“We want to inspire acting leadership, and represent those things and activities that improve our lives,” said Mrs. Padgett, who added it is “important to be thorough”. In all that is undertaken.
She then quoted Ted Abernathy, an Economic Development Consultant (2019) who said, “Gaston County is at an inflection point”, noting that the county and its leaders “…have been on a journey for almost two years.”
The group, noted Mr. Walters, in “…on schedule to get it (the introduction to GV2040) wrapped by fall”, adding that what they have so far been hearing about, concerning the VISION, concerns the many challenges as well as the many opportunities.
“Please keep in mind,” he said, “this is not a one size fits all VISION.”
Additionally, it was pointed out by stakeholders at the Cherryville workshop, that growth is a big issue and that housing densities are really low, especially in Cherryville’s end of Gaston County.
Walters noted other factors that will be taken into consideration at these upcoming workshops include accessibility to parks, schools, and such for less-served groups of individuals, as well consideration of everyone’s cultural importance and history. Another important aspect, especially in light of the current political outlooks in today’s America and the world is our environment; more importantly, protecting our natural environment and our precious natural resources.
As per the handouts, some questions the group wants all to think about as GV2040 goes forward have to do with: What are the critical issues are facing the county; what are its greatest opportunities; how can a shared county-wide vision serve various organizations or the county’s constituents; and what (if any) limitations are seen, with existing planning for the future?
And, lastly: How can Gaston VISION 2040 help the citizens of the county to help us champion the effort going forward?
For more information, please visit their web site at www.gaston2040.com.

St. John’s Lutheran Church site for the Mark Twain-written piece scheduled for April 29 and 30

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville couple Ashley DeMar and Jeremy Homesley are scheduled to perform the Mark Twain-written humorous, yet thought-provoking “The Diaries of Adam & Eve” on Friday and Saturday, April 29 and 30, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, in Cherryville.
The production starts at 7 p.m., and a free will offering will be taken with any donations given going to the church’s ministry to feed the hungry, “God’s Work, Our Hands” ministry.
The two, who moved to Cherryville in 2019 from New York, had lived here previously in 2016, said Ms. DeMar, who added she is originally from New York, but that Jeremy’s family is from Cherryville.
“We are lucky enough to live on the family farm – in the same house his grandparents built – and that’s an invaluable experience for us and for us to give to our son, Roan,” she said.
Jeremy said, “I’ve lived here since 2008 and I think it’s a great area. I initially moved here right after graduating from undergrad at Lenoir-Rhyne. We left in the summer of 2017 when I did a long section hike on the Appalachian Trail (from North Carolina to New York). And then we spent a bit of time in New York and a bit of time in Virginia before coming back in spring of 2019.”
Though they are far from retirement age, Ashley noted Jeremy is an English teacher at Bessemer City High School where he teaches British Literature, World Literature, Honors English and AP English, in addition to leading Drama Club. She works remotely as a writer/copywriter, in addition to her work in the theater and music world. Together, we also run a farm and Project Local, which is the non-profit Jeremy founded in 2017.
Said Jeremy, “Project Local is a non-profit agro-business founded on the idea that food production is an essential component of education. Incidentally, Project Local is also producing this play, as a part of our series Project Local Presents, aiming to apply “homegrown” not only to food, but to art, music, theater, poetry and all manner of creative pursuits.”
Working in and on plays is in their blood as Ashley said, “Well, Jeremy had been involved with a production of this play with the Lincoln Theatre Guild in 2016. And it was his idea to work on it together. Since it is only two people and limited tech needs, it’s something we can easily take with us wherever we may go. (And I said yes, because my grandmother took every opportunity to remind me that we distantly related to Mark Twain.)”
Jeremy agreed, adding, “Yeah, I wouldn’t have found it on my own, but after I did it with LTG. I thought it was a great piece to carry forward.”
The two have been performing “Adam & Eve” together since 2017, but have both been performing professionally and recreationally for many years beyond that, they said.
Said Ashley, “I have been performing since anyone would watch. But especially when I became heavily involved in community theater as a kid. This eventually led to pursuing a BFA in Theater Performance and I have been working professionally ever since. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to work with The Live Literature Company (London, England), The Rev Theatre Company (Auburn, NY), The Barter Theatre (Abingdon, VA), Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama (Kings Mountain, NC), Davidson Community Players (Charlotte, NC), and many more.”
Jeremy added, “I was always involved in music and performance throughout school. And fell back into it in 2015 with the premiere of ‘Liberty Mountain’ – I ended up working with Liberty Mountain for six seasons. I’ve also done a couple of other shows in the area, including ‘Robin Hood’ and ‘Adam & Eve’ with Lincoln Theater Guild.”
As for props, Ashley said, “ Our set and props are relatively minimalistic. But one of the coolest things about our set this time around, is that it was constructed from raw lumber that Jeremy milled himself on the farm.”
She also noted the show features flowers and set pieces decorated to imitate the Garden of Eden.
“So, we are also interested in partnering with local florists for some of this – we think it would add a really special community flair.”
When asked if there was a “message” they wished to convey by performing this play, Ashley said, “Honestly, for me the message is less about the story and more about the production itself. It’s to show that no matter where you may be in the world, you can always create something that wasn’t there before.”
Jeremy noted American author Mark Twain originally wrote this in two sections; the second one after his wife had passed.
“It’s a testament of his love for her that shines through to this day. And anyone who has ever felt like that can connect with this story. I cannot tell you, after the first time I did this show, how three or four older men had to come up and hug me afterward – they felt so seen. The play takes us through the whole spectrum of life: new life, new knowledge, love and loss. The spirit of the play is universal.”
Ashley and Jeremy both strongly support the ministry St. John’s has to offer.
“In particular, this production will go to benefit God’s Work Our Hands, an outreach ministry that provides food and resources for the community. (And yes, Jeremy’s father is the pastor there.),” noted Ashley.
For more information on the play, call St. John’s Lutheran Church at (704) 435-9264.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
michael@cfmedia.info

For Jane Billedeaux, 83, and Harris Putnam, 82, words like “hope” and “true love” aren’t just words, they really do mean what they say. They mean happiness can happen to anyone any time, no matter how much time has passed.
After all, it’s not every day, Jane said, you have an old flame call on you in order to propose to you after many decades apart and numerous marriages (with children too!) between them.
The loving couple tied the knot in November 2021 in the Walmart parking where she worked as a customer hostess. The minister was Gary Donaldson, who also worked nearby and knew Jane. Wedding guests (between 50 to 75, she said) were family and many of Jane’s fellow Walmart employees.
Mrs. Putnam said she and Harris were both born and raised in Earl, went to school there and became what she called “sweethearts” there in their fifth and sixth grade years.
After going their separate ways, marrying (three times for her, each ending in the death of her husband at the time), and the death of Harris’ wife, Jane said she felt it was not meant to be for her to be married. Little did she know that Harris had apparently never forgotten her and set about trying to find her. He did by going to the Earl post office, she said, and asking if they knew if she still lived there. Though she worked at a Walmart in Myrtle Beach, S.C., she still had her house in Earl and just happened to be visiting with family, so was back in town.
“I was home (August 2021) for a nine-day vacation from my job at the Myrtle Beach Walmart. Harris called me and we met at 8:30 a.m., on a Tuesday. He brought me a big, beautiful bouquet of roses. They were so big I couldn’t see him behind them!” she said, smiling. “He took me to Tryon to see waterfalls; he loves waterfalls. We were together eight of the nine days I had off.”
Jane said Harris must have still had some feelings for her in the 64 years they were apart, but it still hit her, as she said, “…like a ton of bricks” when he proposed to her.
“He said he wanted to marry me before Thanksgiving, but I didn’t give him an answer right then,” she said. She wanted to talk to her best friend, her daughter, Frances Pruitt. After that Jane said she felt she had to say “Yes!” to Harris.
Harris, said Jane, worked for the government for 30-plus years, retired from that, then worked at the Charlotte-Douglas Airport for a number of years.
The two are very active, she said, with there being three months difference in age between them, she noted, adding that she is the older of the two of them (her: March 27, to his: June 13).
Jane said she knows their wedding has even been on Google, adding she is grateful it has touched so many lives in a positive manner.
“Our story has given so many of all ages hope; that they too can find someone; find love. Don’t give up! Anything can happen.” she said.
Of their wedding, she said, “It’s like a big dream! It’s like a plaque we saw in Walmart about good things are yet to come. We bought it before our wedding. It’s now hanging in their bedroom in our house. Harris loves it as he is very romantic! I could not have gone out and found a better man than him.”
In closing, Jane, who still works as a customer hostess at the Shelby Walmart, said, “I am blessed; we are blessed. The Lord has been so good to me; to us.”

Beam: “I was greatly impressed with their questions!”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Elementary School Principal Mrs. Audrey Hovis said 2nd grade students in Mrs. Kelly Brown’s class wrote letters to Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam III, asking him several questions about City government.
Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed she noted, adding, “Mayor Beam surprised the elementary school students and answered their questions in person,” last week. “The students were so excited!”
Additionally, Mayor Beam also spoke with teacher Katy Beam’s and teacher assistant Ashley Long’s kindergarten students as well.
When asked about his being a sort of “teacher for a day”, Mayor Beam said, “I had a ball. I have done it a couple of years ago, and Councilmember Jill Parker-Puett and I have also gone there and talked with the students as well.”
Mayor Beam said that while many of the kids’ questions were fairly serious and on-point, there were a few that were cute and humorous as well.
One in particular, he said, with a laugh, was when, “One little boy asked me what it was like to live in the White House. I told him I don’t live in the White House but in a red brick house not far from the school.”
Another humorous question was, after a little boy, in line with his fellow students and carrying his lunch back to class, passed the Mayor, Mrs. Hovis and Mrs. Long in the hall, he then whispered loudly to a little girl classmate behind him, saying, “Donald Trump is here today!”
“Mrs. Long and Mrs. Hovis told me I just got promoted,” said Mayor Beam, with a chuckle.
Mayor Beam noted how impressed he was with the students and their great questions.
“Their brains are like sponges and they can’t wait to get some new bit of information. They soak it up. They remember everything you say to them!” he said.

“Y” CEO Padgett, staff and employees welcome city, county, state and other dignitaries to state-of-the-art facility

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The weather was great for the ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening of the new state-of-the-art Cherryville Family YMCA facility on Thursday, March 24.
Wishing everyone present a “good afternoon”, Chief Volunteer officer of the Gaston County Family YMCA Board of Directors David Rogers said further, as things got started, “This is an exciting day for our YMCA and especially for the community of Cherryville. Thank you for being here.”
Rogers then introduced Mt. Zion Baptist Church pastor, Rev. Keith Huss, as, “...our partner in after-school and summer camp” programs to lead everyone in an opening prayer.
Gaston Family YMCA Sharon Padgett, came to the podium and spoke from a prepared statement about the history of the YMCA in Cherryville.
Reading from her statement, Padgett said, “In 2001 there was a great group of Cherryville City Stakeholders – community members – many who are here today, who saw the need to have a YMCA in Cherryville. So, programs began and the planning started and in 2003 Main Street came to life with a new Cherryville Family YMCA. We are grateful, humbled and blessed to be where we are today.”
Fast forwarding to 2021, Padgett noted another great group of Cherryville City Stakeholders and community members, also many who were there at the ribbon cutting, saw, as she said, “...the need for a new, updated, state of the art YMCA in Cherryville that will carry us for another 20-plus years.”
Padgett also noted how “...many Cherryville families, adults, children and seniors have improved their spirit, mind and body through the doors of the YMCA – not because of the equipment or exercise classes we provide – those are just tools – but by the relationships and friendships that have been built over the years with each other.”
Sharon said “many hands, minds, hearts and prayers that have gone into the making of this new YMCA” and named the following and their contributions: Mr. Patrick and Karen O’Leary for their love for Cherryville and its people; for their passion for service above self and the sharing of their treasures, which fills up, as God’s Word says, “...the storehouses to overflowing.” Padgett added, “We are grateful and there are not enough words to express our gratitude!”
To Mrs. Vickie Spurling, of Spurling Realty, without whose stepping forward and saying, “Come see me, I gotta tell you something that you won’t believe!”, we would not be here standing in this parking lot celebrating.
Added Padgett, “I think she said that to me several times throughout this process!”
To the tireless work of Cherryville Family YMCA employees Butch Boyd and Sandy Homesley, she said, “Your prayers, the love you have for this Y, but mostly for the people of Cherryville, this has been a long day coming and we stand here celebrating because of the grace of God and His wonderful provision! Thank you for who you are and what you mean to this Y and to this community.”
She continued, “To the YMCA staff: not naming names because I will miss somebody. You are the cream of the crop! This Y appreciates you and values what you give day in, and day out to make the mission happen!”
To the Mabry’s (owners of the buildings that housed the former YMCA), she said, “Thank you! Many wonderful years in the Mabry buildings on Main Street. We were able to continue our mission in Cherryville all these years because of your commitment to the Y. Thank you!”
Padgett also thanked the Y’s Board of Advisors in Cherryville and their Board of Directors by saying, “Thank you for believing in this work (and) knowing that Cherryville is a part of the greater whole. When we all row in the same direction great things happen.” She also noted the “Y community and members” by saying, “You deserve this! You deserve it all and it is because of you that this happened! Our Cherryville community needs this Y and this Y needs you!”
In addition to the O’Leary family’s and the Spurling family’s contributions and hard work, Padgett also said, by way of a “shout out”, “Many hands make light work, but the work was not light and there were many hands that made this building possible: Chris Spurling Contractor; Vic with Hoyle Construction; Heath Jackson Plumbing; (Gary) Dellinger Electric; All American Corporation – HVAC contractor; A and A Painting; Chuck Sneed – Bricklayer; and GSM – Roofing.
Padgett also recognized local dignitaries: Mayor H.L. Beam, III, of Cherryville; Cherryville City Council members present; City Manager Brian Dalton (“So thankful for our partnership with the city in the past, now and in the future!”); former CEO of the GCFY, Phill Morgan; House of Representatives member Kelly Hastings and his work through the State of NC for the gift of $10,000 for the Cherryville Family YMCA; Gaston County Manager, Dr. Kim Eagle; and Gaston County Commissioner, Cherryville Township, Mr. Allen Fraley. Thank you! Our hearts are full today!”
Mr. O’Leary said he and his wife were delighted to be there at the opening and ribbon cutting of the new Cherryville Family YMCA.
“The idea to put the Y here was all Vickie Spurling’s idea. So thank her for that. The building and its barrel roof inside and out, it’s beautiful!” he said. “Also, I feel like I’m walking in the shoes of Mr. Dewey Beam,” said Mr. O’Leary, referencing Mr. Beam’s Chrysler/Plymouth dealership in Cherryville that was at the building now housing the new YMCA. The car dealership is said to have opened April 1, of 1947.
Patrick also noted that every dollar spent went to local vendors or to local businesses.
Said Mayor Beam, “It is wonderful to see this crowd her today. This is our fourth ribbon cutting this month! This building is state-of-the-art and it is beautiful! We are happy to have this facility her in our town and look forward to it being in Cherryville for many, many years to come.”
Cherryville Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Pete Craft agreed, adding, “Thanks to all for being here today. We are blessed to have the Cherryville Family Y folks here in this community. I just want you all to know that we here at the Chamber are here to serve you.”
Cherryville’s Downtown Main Street Director David Day said, “We look forward to years of working with you.”
Terri Spake, Branch Manager of Cherryville’s HomeTrust Bank presented a check for $53,000-plus to the Cherryville YMCA. 
Afterwards, Mrs. Padgett reminded folks that after the ribbon cutting, they can feel free to roam around the new Y.
“Staff will be in black polo’s and they can answer any questions you may have,“ she said. “Food is available in the Group Exercise room from 133 West, out of Kings Mountain. They will soon have a location here in Cherryville at the old Butter Me Up location!”
For more information on the new Y’s hours of operation, call (704) 445-9622. 

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

A new business in Cherryville can help you with any needs you may have when it comes to images of weddings, portraits, and other such things that require the skills of a talented photographer – Frank Zayas Photography.
The business, located at 703 E. Main St., Cherryville, is the brainchild of Master Photographer Zayas and his wife Teddi, a daughter of the late John Kilby, a former Cherryville and Gaston County educator. The Zayas’ relocated her from Georgia, where he was, for 32 years, a professional photographer as well as the staff photographer for the DeKalb County School system.
The couple has been back in the community for a bit, they said, adding they are very glad to be back and are looking forward to working in and with the community, providing this professional experience for all.
“It is great to be in Cherryville,” said Frank, as he greeted the many family and friends who all came by to wish him and his wife well, and to welcome them to the city “…Where Life Blossoms!”
Chamber Board of Director’s Chairman Pete Craft spoke, welcoming the couple to the town, adding all were “…happy to be here!” His welcome was followed by the Rev. Dr. Billy Lowe, of Cherryville’s First Presbyterian Church’s oration of welcome, referencing the Old Testament’s Book of Deuteronomy, chapter 8, verse 18, and the resultant prayer for the success of the Zayas’ business.
Mayor H.L. Beam, III then spoke, recognizing City Council member Jill Parker-Puett’s presence; as well as that of City Manager Brian Dalton and City Clerk, Paige Green’s being there, along with other City, Chamber, and Main Street staff and personnel as well.
Said Mayor Beam, “It is a great pleasure for all of us from the City, Chamber, and Main Street to welcome you all and this great business adventure to Cherryville.”
Mayor Beam then went on to tell all there what Mr. Zayas  does as pertains to the particulars of his art and craft, all of which can be ascertained by going to his web site at www.frankzayasphoto.com.
Zayas was also equally thankful to the City and all those who attended the ribbon cutting, but especially thanked his wife, Teddi, who he said, “…does a little bit of everything!”
Frank said that although he still does a great deal of work in and around Charlotte, he feels they are off to a good start here in Cherryville and around the area nearby, adding, “And we hope it will get better!”
To reach Frank Zayas Photography, call them at (678) 488-8819, or email them at fzayas24@icloud.com.

Dr. Turner noted how the town of Cherryville has grown

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

A Thursday, March 10, Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting officially opened a new business in Cherryville – Turner Animal Clinic, located at 600 West Church Street, Suite C.
The new veterinary clinic, which has been at their location since Jan. 31 of this year, officially opened Feb. 11. The Clinic is owned and operated by Dr. Bret M. Turner, DVM, and his wife, Marci, who is his Vet Tech. Former education professional and family friend, Millicent Heavner, rounds out the crew of three in the office. The clinic is in the space that formerly housed the medical practice of Dr. George Bradley, who is now retired.
Dr. Turner is an NC State grad and had worked previously at the Cherryville Animal Hospital.
Dr. Turner noted how the town of Cherryville has grown, adding he and his wife saw the town “had a demand” for their services to help in – and be a part of – that growth.
“We want to provide timely, affordable, quality care and meds for dogs, cats, and small animals in Cherryville and the surrounding community,” said Dr. Turner, who added he is a “small animal vet” and is not a large animal vet.
He continued, “Our focus is on preventative meds and treatment of non-critical and non-surgical illnesses.”
Cherryville Chamber Chairman Pete Craft welcomed the Turners to Cherryville and noted the crowd of supporters and well-wishers and family was “…one of the largest crowds I’ve ever seen at a recent ribbon-cutting.”
Mayor H.L. Beam, III, agreed adding that he too, along with the City Manager, City Council members and City staff members present, along with other City personnel, wanted to officially welcome the new business to town at this new location.
“Congratulations, and we appreciate you all,” he added.
Mr. Craft also told the Turners that if the Chamber could help them in any way they had but to ask.
Dr. Turner and his wife were moved by the outpouring from the City and family and friends. He said, “I want to thank my wife and Millicent, and I especially want to thank the Lord, Who paved the way for this to happen, and lastly, I especially want to thank the City of Cherryville for everything!”
The Clinic’s hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m., to 5 p.m., and on Friday, 8 a.m., until 12 noon. Their office phone number is (704) 802-4299, and their fax number is (704) 802-4440. You may also reach them at turneranimalcliniccherryville.com.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Long a sight at the City’s many festivals, as well as more than a few other festivals around Gaston County as well, Cherryville was pleased to announce last Thursday’s, March 3, ribbon cutting for Tony Tzzz’s “Grill on Wheels” Food Truck.
The food truck is the brainchild of Chris Degree and is well-known for its wonderful and flavorful food, cooked up and served with love and smiles.
Chris said his business, which has been around for quite a while, was named in honor of his oldest son, Tony, who was sadly killed in a car accident on Oct. 18, 1989.
“I have retired from Freightliner,” said Chris, “and I have done quite a lot of festivals in Cherryville and around the county. I am hoping we get to get here, weather permitting, every Friday and set up and cook some good food.”
Working with Chris are his son, C.J. Degree, 23, a well-known CHS athlete, and daughter, Brittany. His grandsons, Demario and Christian Chalk were also on hand helping out with getting things set up for the ribbon cutting. His oldest daughter is Chrissy, he said, and he that the family will also help out with the cooking tasks once things get going.
He laughed and said, “I’ve already had people stopping and asking me if they could order food! I had to tell them this was just for our ribbon cutting but that we would be back!”
Degree noted city’s and county’s have designated spots for food trucks to set up in so as not to impede traffic flow and such.
“I have been doing this for 20-plus years,” he said, adding, “I do this to remember Tony. We are usually here at the festivals all the time, except for when we couldn’t because of COVID.”
Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Pete Craft welcomed Chris and his family, saying, “We’re glad to have you here and to see this good turnout. The weather is great also. Chris, we wish you well in your endeavor. If there is anything the Chamber can do for you don’t hesitate to let us know.”
Mayor H.L. Beam, III, agreed, adding, “It’s a beautiful day here in the City Where Life Blossoms, and it’s a great day to recognize such a unique business, which is also a mobile business. We wish you much success and want to thank you all for choosing Cherryville and thank you for providing Cherryville with such a great service!”
Main Street Chairperson, Donna Beringer also welcomed Chris and his family, adding, “I just want to say thank you for coming here and for providing this service to Cherryville. If there is anything we can do for you all, please let us know.”
Chris said, though he wasn’t “much of a talker”, as he put it, he said, “We are glad to be here. We will serve you right. We do this the right way. Thank all of you for coming out.”
This was the first ribbon cutting, noted Craft and Mary Beth Tackett, for new Chamber Board members Barry Heavner (Houser Drug), Johnny Brown (Allstate Insurance), Emily Blackburn (Piedmont Lithium), and Sarah Chambers (Peak Resources).
 

Two Cherryville inductions gives town 15 of its own in auspicious Hall of Fame

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

On Saturday, March 5, two Cherryville men will be inducted into the 2021 class of the North Carolina American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame. The two are Post 100 American Legion Commander Mike Robinson and former umpire Sam Homesley, also a member of Post 100.
Returning once again to the “City Where Life Blossoms”, the 2022 ceremony will be held at the Cherryville Post 100 Legion Hut and starts at 6:30 p.m.
According to Area IV Baseball Commissioner Jerry Hudson the inductees are, in addition to Mr. Robinson and Mr. Homesley, David Ellis, of Post 102 (Ahoskie), and Jerald D. “Danny” Rollins, of Post 39 (Greenville). Also to be recognized are North Carolina Players of the Year, Will Blackburn (Junior Player of the Year), and Zach Wilson (Senior Player of the Year).
Last year, Mr. Hudson noted that he and Mark Cauble, and Terry Melton were all inducted at the American Legion Convention in Raleigh.
Said Jerry, “For many years the AL Hall of Fame has been at many different Posts throughout the state as hosted by those various Posts.”
Longtime sports writer Richard Walker’s web site, www.CarolinasSportsHub.com, noted that, “…Homesley is a Cherryville High and East Carolina graduate who was a longtime school teacher and coach at Burns High School.
“A 45-year Legion member and Vietnam veteran, Homesley also was a longtime high school and Legion baseball umpire who worked two Legion regional tournaments and 12 N.C. state tournaments.”
Walker’s site continued, “Robinson is a Cherryville High graduate who was a truck driver for 35 years. A Vietnam veteran, Robinson has been Cherryville Post 100 commander the past eight years during which time he has worked every Post 100 baseball game.”
Walker also went into more detail concerning the number of times the event has been hosted by Post 100.
Wrote Walker, “It’ll be the sixth time the event has been held in Cherryville and the eighth time in Gaston County. Cherryville hosted in 1977, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1993, and Gastonia hosted in 1971 and 2005.”
His web site further noted, “The induction of Homesley and Robinson gives Cherryville 15 members of the N.C. American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame; Ezra V. Moss, Sr. (1971 class), Edmond Sullivan (1972), John R. Smith (1974), John Mosteller (1977), Aaron Moss (1981), Ronald 'Scoop’ Kiser (1984), Hugh Putnam (1986), Hugh 'Buzz’ Peeler (1988), Bill Abernethy (1998), Rocky Bennett (2006), Bobby Reynolds (2007), David 'Benny’ Blanton (2008) and Jerry Hudson (2020) were previous inductees.”
Hudson added that Sam, “…umpired high school (and) American Legion baseball for 37 years”, adding that for “…over 25 years” Sam and he umpired together high school, American Legion games, State Championships, and Regionals.”
Jerry said, “Bob Beason is Chairman of Hall of Fame Committee. Members are himself (Area IV Baseball Commissioner Hudson), and Mark Cauble, the NC State Baseball Chairman.
For his part, Post 100 member and veteran Sam Homesley said, “I am honored to be inducted! I had fun and appreciate the American Legion recognizing me for all the hard work I put in.”
Cherryville’s Post 100 American Legion Commander Mike Robinson said, “I really do appreciate the honor to be inducted. However, it’s all thanks to my veteran brothers and sisters at Post 100. It is all of them that have helped me get any recognition I have gotten now and over the years. This honor and my induction is as much about them as it is me, especially for me to be in the position I am in at this time, as their Post Commander. Honestly, we are all like a family here at Post 100. I appreciate all of them!”
For more information on this or other Cherryville or local high school or Legion sports history, visit Richard Walker’s website, at www.CarolinasSportsHub.com.
For those wishing to come to the ceremony, Mr. Hudson said tickets can be purchased at the door.

Began serving his community as a Junior Firefighter while at CHS

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville Fire Department Captain Chris “Pudge” Cash has decided – after more than three decades of selfless service to his beloved hometown – to retire.
Cash, younger brother to retired Chief Jeff Cash, started his career in the fire service, he said, as a young lad while he was still in high school.
“I started in 1984 at Hugh’s Pond Volunteer Fire Department when I was 16, then went to Cherryville’s Fire Department,” he said. “(The late) Joe Vandyke was the chief then and it was him that developed the junior firefighter program.”
“Pudge” graduated from CHS in 1985 and never looked back, so far as getting more firmly entrenched in the career he loves so much, and getting to serve others is, for him, just more icing on the professional cake.
Serving others in the fire services runs in the family as Chris, his older brother, Jeff, a couple of uncles, a number of sons and cousins, and, well, you get the picture… have all chosen to, some way, somehow, get active and help folks by being firefighters either in Cherryville, Shelby, Charlotte, or other towns nearby.
Pudge had his retirement ceremony on Friday, Feb. 11, and many of his family, friends, and fellow smoke-eaters came by during the 3 to 5 p.m. “drop-in” event just to say a kind word and to wish him well in his retirement.
Mayor H.L. Beam, III said probably what was on just about everyone’s mind that day when he said, “I’m gonna miss him! He’s one of the good ones!”
Mayor Beam talked about Pudge’s well-known humorous made-up awards and their presentations during the annual CFD Awards and Christmas Banquet, saying that he always made people laugh.
Presenting Pudge with his Captain’s helmet was Assistant Fire Chief Coby Heffner.
Said AC Heffner, “Pudge was my first (fire) captain, and he has meant a lot to me over the years I have been here.” This brought a tear or three to Pudge’s eyes as he remembered how young Colby came up in the ranks, first as a junior firefighter, then a Driver/Engineer, then later moving through the ranks to eventually become the Assistant Chief upon Jason Wofford becoming Fire Chief.
Of Colby, Pudge said, “One of the greatest parts of my job was to see this young man become the young man he is today. I got to train him and my son, Travis, and my nephews, Chad and Quentin, as well as many others.”
He continued, “It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve with everyone of the men and women here. I am going to miss all of you!”
Of his retirement, Pudge said, “It’s going to be a big change for me.”
Chris said he will continue to work at his uncle Hugh Eaker’s business, Eaker Car Ports (aka Eaker Enterprises) and enjoy spending time with his wife, Danya, and their family. The two met through work, said Pudge, in 2011, and they have four children: Travis Cash (a Charlotte firefighter with Engine Co. #12); Lanie Cash (an RN, who plans to marry her fiancé, Jacob Harrell in March); Lawson Harkey; and Mallory Harkey. Mallory’s boyfriend, Chase Cheatum, was there congratulating Pudge on his retirement as well.

Streetscape progreses with completion set for late summer

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

There have been many questions about the state of affairs with Cherryville’s City Streetscape work in the Downtown area lately. Citizens look around and can see what has been done so far, and what is still being done.
To that end, and thanks to a recent media release from Cherryville’s Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Program, spokesman Steve Panton and Chamber Director David Day, as well as Mayor H.L. Beam, III, City Manager Brian Dalton, and City Public Works Director Brandon Abernathy, all addressed those questions and concerns.
The City staff personnel and officials noted they “…are pleased with the progress (of the ongoing) Downtown construction,” adding, “And they’re looking forward to being finished before late summer.
City Manager Brian Dalton said in the release, he was pleased with how things were moving along.
“Our contractors have been great,” said City Manager Dalton, who added, “We’ve had good weather and they’ve moved really fast. The first phases are already complete.”
According to Mr. Dalton, Dominion Energy completed their gas line work in October, and the  construction  company, Cajan, finished their sewer work in November.
Mr. Dalton added he expects Sealand’s work on the water lines to be finished “…within weeks.”
Mr. Day also noted that next up, work will begin on the streetscape to lay new sidewalks, bury cables, erect new streetlamps, put in new plantings, and repave Main Street.
Mr. Dalton continued, “They’ll start at Depot Street and move west section by section. Once they reach Mulberry Street in late summer, Main Street will be totally transformed.”
As Mr. Abernathy, public works director, stated in the media release, “The city will work hard to keep disruption to businesses to a minimum.”
He continued, “One key initiative will be to lay new temporary surfaces in the alleys behind the businesses on both the north and south sides of the street before any street construction starts. That’s going to open up parking and allow people to enter our merchants through their back doors.”
Cherryville Downtown Director Day said, “The Main Street Program office will keep merchants, community members, and visitors informed,” adding, “We have a website page that we’ll update frequently. And, we’ll have signs directing street and pedestrian traffic.”
Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, pointed to the citizens of Cherryville as the driving force behind the project’s success to date.  Said Mayor Beam, “Our citizens saw the need. Then, they stepped up, voted, and met it.”
He continued, “So far, our citizens have delt amazingly well with the interruptions. We know the last phase will be the hardest. But, we’re on the home stretch now. Generations of Cherryville’s citizens will be blessed because of the sacrifices of this one.”
Mr. Day was enthusiastic about what the changes will mean for the economic development of Cherryville’s downtown.
Said Day, “Savvy investors are already pouring millions of dollars into renovating our old buildings. We’re expecting several new restaurants and a brewery in the near future.”
Day continued, “But that’s not all. We’ll soon see new retail and office space and many new apartments.”
Additionally, Day noted how several new restaurants have expressed interest in joining the Main Street community of merchants.
“Downtown’s future is bright,” said Mr. Day.
For those who have further questions or just want more information about downtown construction, Mr. Day said to call the Main Street Program office at (704) 435-3451, or visit the City’s new website at www.cityofcherryville.com.

 

“El Dedo Rojo” one in a long line of neat teaching tools/productions

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

By day, he is mild-mannered CHS Spanish teacher Matt Smith; by, well, also by day (mostly), he is the Spanish James (or is it Diego?) Bond – Spanish-speaking superspy “Mateo”, whose wit (and golf score) are seldom equaled, because, I mean, who wants to anyway?
Seriously folks, CHS Spanish teacher Matt Smith puts a great deal of effort into making learning fun for his students, as do many of his teaching peers. Smith does this by making mostly quick and short iPhone videos for their perusal and enjoyment.
Such was the case with his newest – and possibly longest – endeavor to date, a campy, roughly 23-plus minute “remake” (of sorts) of the Ian Fleming classic James Bond thriller, “Goldfinger”.
The mini-masterpiece, titled “El Dedo Rojo”, or “Redfinger”, for short (and artistic purposes) is a video idea, said Smith recently, whose filming “…was really generated during the pandemic.”
Smith, 48, has been teaching for 20 years after a stint in the business world up near Raleigh. The father of two said, “Last year, on our virtual days I would film mini 'virtual lectures’ and post them to my Canvas page. These started out as purely instructional, pretty much me explaining Spanish grammar concepts, but I couldn’t help but notice that I got more views from students if I put a little comedy in the lectures.
“So, it then occurred to me to recruit other Cherryville teachers/staff to help act out little skits revolving around these instructional concepts. Again, those started off pretty simple, for example, Robert Webb and I did a bit about a piece of macaroni stuck to the inside of the teacher lounge microwave (we were studying Spanish foods at the time). Gradually, these skits became more elaborate – I’d throw in some edited images, perhaps a little music.
“Well, it came as no surprise by then that with the better quality videos the number of students watching them went up as well.  Now, I should point out that all of these videos were filmed with an iPhone, not professional movie equipment, so we had limitations. Still, I decided that for my final video of last year, CHS staff and I would act out an entire restaurant scene – I got eight different staff members to appear in that one, which was approximately eight minutes long. The skit supposedly centers around a Scrabble grudge match that (the CHS media center’s) Nancy Olls were having, but the real purpose was for the teachers and I to
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model a restaurant skit dialogue for my students, since they had to create one of their own for the final exam. And again, it worked well; the student skits were creative and fun to watch.”
Smith continued, “Well, over the summer I started thinking about how much fun all the teachers and I had making the restaurant video. I knew my final year of teaching was approaching (Mat6t said he is retiring to Florida at the end of this year), so I decided to give it a go one last time. The result was 'El Dedo Rojo’ an almost 24-minute long movie featuring approximately 15 CHS students, 15 staff members, and even some community members such as our (current) fire chief. The resulting video was less about instruction and more of a tribute to the town of Cherryville, although I did use it again as the basis for my students’ final exam in December. We even had a movie premiere here at school, with most cast members in attendance. Incidentally, James Bond fans might notice 'El Dedo Rojo’ (Redfinger) is largely a spoof of my favorite James Bond movie, Goldfinger. I even got a friend of mine, country music recording artist, David Britt, to record an original theme song, which is featured at the end of the movie.”
Smith loves playing golf almost as much as he loves teaching, and what with growing up in Florida and with playing the sport of golf, as he says, “most of (his) adult life”, Florida seemed like a great place to make his retirement haven.
“I’m originally from Charlotte,” noted Smith, who also added this year was his second at CHS. He graduated with a degree in Spanish in 1996 from NC State, playing – he said – quite a bit of golf there when he had time off from his studies. He later got a job in telecommunications. Smith said his handicap is “probably a solid 8” and he noted he shoots “around 80”.
Back to the video.
“The idea, again, came in bits and pieces,” said Smith, adding he is most proud of being able to get many members of the Cherryville community involved in and engaged with the instructive video.
“Bottom line? I like that it (the video) became something that engaged my students as well as the community,” he said.
One of the actors in the video, Mrs. Carrie B. Dalton, CHS Secretary and Head Girls Basketball Coach, said, “I had a great time helping with the film. Mateo always does a great job and puts on a great production.”
Cherryville Fire Chief Jason Wofford also had a great deal of fun playing the antagonist, El Dedo Rojo, a.k.a. Redfinger. He said of the video, “I enjoyed worked with Mr. Smith during this video. I thought it was an awesome idea to spur interest in (the) Spanish (language).”
Smith said those interested in looking at the video, which can be found on Youtube (search El Dedo Rojo), might be better served by going to his url at https://tinyurl.com/2fnu4swr.

He joins a long list of winners of the
auspicious, celebrated state award

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Being honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award is no trivial thing and it is to be noted more than a few folks from Cherryville have been blessed with the auspicious honor.
Now, after 40-plus years of service to his community and his home state, retired Cherryville Fire Chief Jeffrey C. Cash can count himself as one of those who have received the honor and the beautiful award that goes with it.
To say he was surprised by the award, given to him by longtime friend and fellow Fire Chief Jake Whisnant at the Dec. 12, 2021 CFD Banquet, would be an understatement.
On receiving the honor, Jeff said, “I did not know about the award until Jake made the presentation at our annual Christmas banquet. I was honored to be given this award and very appreciative of the award for what it represents. After 43 years in the fire service, it was great to receive this level of an award.  My career, over 43 years in the fire service, was not really a job. I always felt like it was a ‘calling’. I was blessed to work with some great folks over the years and the City of Cherryville was very good to me and my family. I always hoped, in my travels across the
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country, that I was an ambassador for Cherryville. I am truly a blessed individual.”
At the 2021 banquet, Chief Whisnant, of Shelby FD, regaled those there with humorous stories and memories of his and Jeff’s time serving together first at Shelby, then later working to get grants or to get something done for firefighters and their families.
“Before I present him with this gift, which I don’t know if he knows what it is or not, thought he probably does, I just want to say to you Jeff, that Sen. Kathy Harrington sends her heartfelt regrets that she can’t be here tonight, but wishes you and Cynthia and your family all the best,” said Chief Whisnant, in a previous Eagle article.
Mr. Cash was presented him with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest recognition of honor for one of its citizens, and, clearly moved by all of the presentations and words of kindness, thanked everyone, saying then, “I love all of you and your families. I am so thankful for my family. I am a blessed man!”
Retired Chief Cash reiterated that Sen. Kathy Harrington “…helped expedite the nomination to the Governor’s office,” adding, “The nomination actually came from Jake Whisnant, Executive Director of the NC Association of Fire Chiefs & Retired Deputy Chief of Shelby Fire Department.”
Cash continued, “Jake was assisted with the application by my family, Cynthia, (and sons) Chad and Quentin.”
Jeff noted he started his fire services career in 1979 in Rock Hill, SC.
“I moved from Rock Hill Fire Department to Shelby Fire Department and then came to Cherryville Fire Department in 1981.”
As for his career choice inspiration, he said, “Of course, my inspiration was my mom and dad, but I was also greatly influenced by my uncle, who was a Cherryville volunteer firefighter. His name was Wayne Eaker. My dad was a truck driver and was gone a lot. Uncle Wayne’s only child was a daughter (Debbie Eaker); therefore, he allowed me to tag along with him on fire calls and he also took me fishing regularly.  One particular winter day, he allowed me to go with him to a house fire on Putnam Street in Cherryville. I was about 12 years old. This fire call confirmed for me that all I wanted to do was become a firefighter.”
He continued, “On this particular house fire, Uncle Wayne was assigned to the roof, to cut a hole in the roof, and I can still see in my mind him on the roof of the house doing his best to help the family in need. Thus began my love for the fire service! One of the key reasons that I have had such a wonderful career is especially due to my wife, Cynthia, and to our sons, Chad and Quentin. This also includes extended family members who have been a great encouragement to me and have also been involved in the fire service as well. Over the years there have been countless times that Cynthia has had to take up my responsibilities because I was on an emergency or out of town receiving training. Without my family’s support, this would not have been possible.”
Jeff also noted it has been one of his and Cynthia’s objectives as parents to instill in Chad and Quentin a strong work ethic and a commitment to the community and always the willingness to give back.
“To be a giver, not a taker. We think we have been successful in this area with both Chad and Quentin. Both are successful in their careers and in their communities,” said retired Chief Cash.  The couple’s long-range plans are to retire in the North Myrtle Beach area.
“We both love the coast; however, we really want to stay in the Carolinas. We love beach music and love dancing ‘shagging’. There’s no place like North Myrtle Beach, the home of the Shag dance. Until then, we will continue to be involved with our church, First Baptist Church of Cherryville, the fire service, and the Billy Graham Library ministry,” noted Mr. Cash.
Jeff readily admits he has been very blessed since his retirement.
“I currently have multiple opportunities in part-time capacities and am currently working with NASCAR, in training at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in the area of safety. I am also going to be doing some training coordination for the NC Volunteer Fire Insurance Services.
“I have also been consulting for the past 15 plus years. This past year I formalized the consulting business and we are now ‘Bucket Brigade Consulting, LLC’ Cherryville. I have approximately 26 clients, which are municipalities and counties and have three projects that I am currently working on in regards to my consulting.”
Cash noted he serves as the President, with son, Quentin serving as Vice-President; son, Chad as Treasurer; and wife, Cynthia serving as Secretary.
“As you can see,” he added, “Bucket Brigade Consulting, LLC is a family business!”
Cash also noted the name of the business, Bucket Brigade, is a spinoff of early firefighting techniques.
“We have been blessed in this area and it continues to grow and expand. We are excited about where these opportunities may lead our family! Once again, we are truly blessed.”
Cynthia said of her industrious husband and his Long Leaf Pine Award, “I am so proud of Jeff and I know of no one else who is more deserving of the NC Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award than him. He faithfully served the City of Cherryville and the citizens of our great city for 40 years. He has always had a real love for Cherryville and serving was his ‘calling’, not a job. His dedication, professionalism, servanthood, customer service and love for the Fire Service in our city, state and nation have been outstanding. He is a Godly man, wonderful husband and wonderful father to our sons and daughters-in-law, Chad and his wife Heidi, and Quentin and his wife Erin. We are so proud of him and all that he has accomplished and we look forward to what God has in store for him and our family for the rest of our journey for years to come!”
Son, Quentin said, “Largely, I would echo the comments from Mom. But as far as from my perspective as a firefighter and now as President of the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association I would add, ‘Jeff Cash is the definition of service and humility. He has been a leader of the NC fire service for over 40 years serving in the past as President of the Western NC Firefighters Association, President of the North Carolina Firefighters’ Association, Deputy Director of the North Carolina Associate of Fire Chiefs, and serving on the Executive Board of the National Volunteer Fire Council.’
“As great as all four of those accolades are, that isn’t what defines Jeff Cash or his service as Fire Chief. What defines Dad is the legacy he is leaving behind. He started building the people of the Cherryville Fire Department years ago. He was mentoring and preparing the future fire service leaders of the Cherryville FD, Gaston County and the state as a whole. You can’t go anywhere from ‘Murphy to Manteo’ without hearing about Chief Jeff Cash from ‘Churville’. About all accolades to us though, ‘Dad’ and ‘Hero’ is always what he will always be!”
Son, Chad, who is the Chief Operations Officer for Carolina Federal Credit Union as well as a Cherryville firefighter, said, “We are so proud of my dad. He had such an amazing career, and he did it the right way. I have always looked up to him since a young age and he is still my mentor to this day. His leadership and integrity are something I strive for daily. He always told us, ‘Give everything you do 110 percent and make sure to take care of the small things because if you do that the big things will take care of themselves.’ He loves the Lord, my mom, his family, and his community with a passion. For over 40-plus years he gave his blood, sweat, and tears to this community and our state. He isn’t defined by awards or accolades but having said that, he deserves this honor and again we are so proud of him!”
Cherryville Fire Chief Jason Wofford, a long-time friend and fellow firefighter, said of his former Chief and mentor, “I am happy to see Jeff receive such a prestigious award. For 32 years I have admired his service to our community but also for his work and dedication to the North Carolina fire service. He has testified before Congress, served on many national committees, and has served on many state boards. His hard work is much deserving of this honor.”

Second blast of Arctic air brings little snow; more winter mix our way

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Winter Storm Izzy had a big surprise for western North Carolina and Cherryville last weekend. The snowy, sleety beast roared in and dumped a great deal of the white, fluffy stuff ion our area, followed by the dreaded sleet, icy rain and more ice and more snow, piling it on in heaps and generally causing sloppy mayhem across the region.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, more of the cold wet stuff was forecast for the coming weekend as well, though according to weather pundits, that affected folks farther east in our state. Cherryville and its surrounding area got minor snow and more of the wintry mix from the second wintry onslaught.
City Manager Brian Dalton, who helped man the city’s EOC (Emergency Operations Center) said, he wanted to “personally praise the work all the department heads and their employees did for the storm.”
He continued, “Every department had their individual responsibilities and all did a great job in helping Cherryville get through the storm. There was great communication between all the groups to accomplish the goals of getting Cherryville and the citizens back to normal as fast as possible.”
Cherryville Fire Chief Jason Wofford agreed and said, “ Our on-duty staff stood by ready at a moment’s notice to help in any way we were needed.”
Chief Wofford knew the state and county crews had already been out brining the roadways and laying down salt but wasn’t sure exactly how much was done before the arrival of the storm.
Said Chief Wofford, “We received very few calls, but we did have a porch collapse that trapped the occupants of the house. Captain Kurt Black and Engineer Jacob Richardson went above and beyond the call of duty to assist the homeowners in that emergency situation.”
Chief Wofford continued, “I’d like to praise Capt. Black and Engineer Richardson with their handling of the porch collapse and add a word of thanks to our new City Manager for coming and manning the EOC all day that Sunday!”
Cherryville Police Chief Cam Jenks said their department responded to approximately eight (8) calls during the course of the storm that involved either minor motor vehicle collisions or vehicles that slid off of the roadway.
Chief Jenks continued, “We always evaluate potential risks during storms and rely on information from Gaston County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service. We will have crews on standby if they are needed if the second projected storm is bad.”
Fortunately that didn’t happen as the second storm delivered its punch more to the east of us, he noted.
Chief Jenks did have words of praise for his department and his men and women, as well as the citizens of Cherryville.
“First, I would like to thank the majority of our citizens that made a wise decision to stay off of the roads until the roads were passable. This cuts down on the risk of injury to not only the public but to the City of Cherryville employees. I would also like to thank all of the City of Cherryville employees that worked tirelessly through the storm to make sure the roads were clear and that the public was safe.”
While dangerous travel conditions were anticipated with this third winter storm of the year, state crews had already been treating the roads and highways in the eastern and central aprts of the state.
In a media release, State Transportation Secretary J. Eric Boyette said he and his people were “…getting ready for this storm. You need to be ready, too. Get prepared because once this storm hits, road conditions will quickly deteriorate, and you’ll need to stay off the roads.”
Boyette noted the storm was the second winter storm to hit North Carolina in less than a week and the third storm of 2022.
In the state’s media release, it was noted that “…nearly 800 NCDOT employees and contract crews” worked or were preparing to treat roads for the storm.
NCDOT and its contractors had more than 300 trucks and graders ready to work on roads through the weekend, it was reported and NCDOT employees had also “…readied their chainsaws and other heavy equipment” to make sure all were ready to go to cut and remove any downed trees and debris.
As of early Thursday afternoon last week, state and county crews had applied nearly 1 million gallons of brine in central and eastern North Carolina and had restocked supplies of salt and sand to treat roads after the snow and freezing rain starts.
For information about the work NCDOT does before, during and after winter storms, please visit the NCDOT: Winter Storms web page.
For real-time travel information in lieu of the next impending winter storm or emergency, visit DriveNC.gov, or follow NCDOT on social media.

Also votes to annex property known as Stroup Acres

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

At Monday night’s Jan. 10 regular Cherryville City Council session, Council members heard the audit report from Butler and Stowe about the city’s audit, ending June 30, 2021, from Mr. Robert Adams, who is one of the managing partners with that firm.
Mr. Adams noted his firm met with the audit committee members on Thursday, Jan. 6 to review the audited financial statements for the year ending with the aforementioned date.
Wrote Mr. Adams in a brief handed to Council members, “Our opinion on the financial statements for the year end was a clean opinion, which means: (a.) the City has met the audit requirements of the North Carolina General Statutes, and (b.) the financial statements represent the financial status of the City at June 30, 2021.”
Adams also noted some of the financial highlights are as follows: “… (a.) the City ended the year with combined assets exceeding the liabilities by $20,361,000; (b.) the City received funding of the voter-approved bonds and recorded the receipt of $3,653,000 in the General Fund and $5,944,000 in the Water and Sewer Fund; (c.) the unassigned fund balance of the General Fund was $1,080,621. This represents funds available to the Council without restriction. This is an increase of $298,000 over the prior year; (and) (d.) the two enterprise funds, Electric and Water & Sewer, had a combined income of $524,027 for the year ended June 30, 2021.”
Adams spoke to the audit committee – comprised of chairman Jon Abernethy, Mayor H.L. Beam, staff members Brian Dalton (City Manager) and (Finance Director) Dixie Wall and volunteers Pam Harris and Scott Harrill – about future challenges and opportunities for the city and the Council going forward into the coming fiscal year, which include, among other things, budgeting and cash flowing the debt service for the bonds.
He noted, in closing his remarks in his brief, that, “…the improvements to the City’s infrastructure and other funding opportunities made possible by the Cares Act and American Rescue Plan will provide the city and the City Council with great opportunities to improve the city and enhance the lives of its citizens.”
City Manager Brian Dalton said of the report by the auditors that it was a “very good” report for Cherryville.
Council approved the 2021-2022 Budget Amendment items brought up by Dixie Wall then considered the appointments to the Architectural Review Board, approving the recommendations as read.
The Council then heard an update on Piedmont Lithium’s progress from Mayor Beam as well as an update by City Manager Dalton on the City’s purchasing cards that have been issued to the department heads.
Mr. Dalton noted that perhaps the biggest news of the meeting was that, after going into and out of public hearing, the City Council unanimously voted on the ordinance to approve the annexation of the area and parcels of land at 1404 Shelby Hwy., known also as Stroup Acres, LLC, and their rezoning from R-40 to CU R-9 Cluster, CU RMF, and B-2 zoning.
In other ordinance action, Mayor H.L. Beam read an ordinance making Jan. 23-29, 2022 City of Cherryville School Choice Week. Council approved the ordinance as read.
Mr. Dalton brought up another ordinance, this one to consider a resolution to begin an upset bid process on a city-owned lot located on W. Main St. (the corner of W. Main and Mulberry Streets). This was voted on and approved by Council.

“Following the boom” and driving out evil spirits for a better New Year

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The small Cleveland County town of Waco heard the “boom” of musket fire on Jan. 1, 2022, around 1 p.m., as the Cherryville New Year’s Shooter’s, Inc. group congregated at the town’s Community Center to help them welcome in the New Year.
Greeting them were Mayor John E. “Butch” Barrett, Jr., and Alderman Linwood Pete Sauls, as well as a number of residents who came out for the popular spectacle.
Mayor Barrett said this isn’t the first time the group has come to Waco, the town whose motto is, “History with Pride and Vision”, to shoot in the New Year.
“They shot at my grandparents, A.A. Barrett’s, house in the ‘60’s, and they have shot at the Post Office here in the past as well. For the past six years they have come over and shot at the Waco Community Center. We have always had a good turnout to see and hear them when they come by,” he said.
Barrett, who has been mayor of the little town since 2015, added they “…had a huge turnout this year” as can be seen on the town’s Facebook page.
Saying it was one of the warmest “shoots” on record for  him,  Cherryville New Year’s Shooter’s, Inc. Secretary, Rusty Wise, reaffirmed that their group has indeed been coming over to Waco for a number of years, shooting in the New Year for the town and its residents.
“They always are glad to see us when we come by and we like getting out that way,” said Mr. Wise, who also noted their group has always enjoyed shooting at Waco.
Wise also noted their group honored the memory of the late Carl C. “Boozie” Dellinger, their President, at their 2022 last shot at Rudisill Stadium in Cherryville on Jan. 1.
“We also recognized their family that night as well,” he added.
Dennis Devine, of Cherryville, the President of the Traditional New Year’s Shooters group, said by phone recently that their group has also shot in Cleveland County “…many years ago, at the home of the late Roy Kale.”
He continued, “We would then go on in to Shelby and shoot at a couple of places there, but like I said, that has been a while since we have done that.”
The Shooter’s groups and their members are just glad to be “out and about” after the pandemic’s ravages. They are always happy to practice what their chant calls, “the art and science” of firing their guns and to scare away any evil spirits and shoot in a happy, safe, and prosperous New Year.
For more information on the Town of Waco, email them at townofwaco@gmail.com. For more information on the Cherryville New Year’s Shooter’s, Inc., go to https://cherryvilleshooters.com. For more information on the Traditional New Year’s Shooters, go to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Cherryville-Traditional-New-Year-Shooters.

Moved upstairs to main floor and
expanded

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The New Year’s Shooters exhibit, once located in the basement of the Cherryville Historical Museum, has now found a new home of sorts… one flight up and in the main hall of the CHM.
Rusty Wise, owner of Wise Electric and Mr. Sparky, and the Secretary of the Cherryville New Year’s Shooter’s, Inc. group, said he was approached about perhaps working on a new and upgraded exhibit to better reflect what the groups and their history mean to the community.
Said Rusty, “The museum started talking about renovating the basement, including the Shooters exhibit. As discussions progressed, including adding the documentary movie and new items, it was decided to move it upstairs. Many of the Shooters artifacts were deteriorating in the basement, as well as the basement being limited to through traffic because the use of stairs being required to access the exhibit.”
Wise noted that most everything in the exhibit is new; the aluminum storyboards are new as well as some muskets and other items with very little being relocated upstairs.
As far as knowing what to pick, what to show, how to show it all, and what to leave off and not show was concerned, “Mr. Wise said, “The museum and both Shooter’s groups provided pictures and information (for the new exhibit). It was a painstaking process of what to include. We went through at least a dozen edits in the process.”
Rusty continued, “The museum provided the funds for the storyboards. The Cherryville New Year Shooters provided the new TV monitor. One musket was provided by Dan Ginn in memory of (his son) Joey Ginn. The other artifacts, including an original 1862 musket was given by me and our Shooters group. The painting and case work was done, or brought about, by the museum.”
Rusty noted the museum’s intention is to leave the new exhibit where it is permanently.
“The shooters are the oldest thing in the museum – older than Cherryville itself,” he said, adding, “That’s the biggest reason we wanted it at the main entrance. There is over 100 years of history there in the exhibit, with pictures and hundreds just with the history itself! The exhibit starts at the beginning of New Year’s shooting in the world even.”
Wise said, “Our group’s philosophy is all about history and we have most of the Shooter records thanks to Howell Stroup and other members of our group” though he added both Shooter’s groups are represented in the new exhibit.
He continued, “The public has yet to see it as it was just finished. We plan to have a grand opening for the exhibit sometime when the museum wants to.”
Additionally, Rusty said he is “really excited” how the “real” crossed guns hanging up turned out as it mimics their logo patch.
Museum Director Mrs. Pat Sherrill said of the new exhibit, “This is the best exhibit we have done. The New Year Shooter’s (story) is the town’s oldest history, and  since this is our oldest history, it belongs in the first room of the Museum.”
Sherrill noted the project has taken “…about six months.”
She continued, “We have two shooters groups in Cherryville and it’s my purpose and intention to be sure all history is equally represented. Gary Dellinger (Traditional New Year’s Shooters) and Rusty (Cherryville New Year’s Shooters, Inc.), and Casey at Modern Printing have been most helpful.”
Mrs. Sherrill added that the exhibit includes the documentary that Rusty has done.
She continued, “This exhibit earned its place because of Howell Stroup, Boozie Dellinger, Don Homesley, Rusty Wise, Gary Dellinger and thousands of  loyal shooters who over the years have carried the tradition forward, going out in rain, sleet or snow to wish all a Happy New Year.”
For more information on this or other CHM exhibits, their hours of operation, or just general information on the history of Cherryville, please call (704) 435-8011.
The Museum is located on Main Street in Downtown Cherryville, next to the Cherryville Family YMCA.

Both groups glad to be out again, continuing their time-honored tradition of shooting in the New Year

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

If you are new to the area you are in for a tried and true, traditional treat as both Cherryville New Year’s shooters groups prepare to start their 24-hour long welcome for the New Year 2022.
The two groups carry on a centuries-old tradition brought over by their ancestors who arrived from Germany and other places in Europe back when this country was in its infancy.
It is a cultural tradition that has survived to this day, in spite of its naysayers and critics and those who generally can’t (or won’t) understand why such traditions continue in the first place.
The easy answer to that is because they are… well, TRADITIONS!
That said, here is what is happening with each group, as told by a couple of their officers.
Rusty Wise, a long-time member of the Cherryville New Year’s Shooters, Inc. group, said their group is “…back to normal this year as in years past.” He added, “(There are) no special COVID restrictions or anything since the public has access to the vaccines. Of course, things could change, but that is the plan as of this (past) week.”
He said their group will start at midnight of Dec. 31, at Black’s Grill and end at Rudisill Stadium approximately at 6:30 p.m. Wise noted pluses for them are that “…membership is up 50 more members this year to date over years past. We expect a huge crowd this year since everyone has been restricted by COVID and wants to get out and celebrate. Also New Year’s falling on Friday night and Saturday will bring out more people. We are preparing for large crowds.”
This year, Mr. Wise noted the entire 2022 shoot will be in tribute to the late Carl Boozie Dellinger the group’s past President.
Said Wise, “His picture is on our member ID badges this year and we will have a special tribute for Boozie at Rudisill Stadium.”
The CNYSI groups has, noted Wise, added 50 shots this year as in years past.
He said, “We’ve added Boozie’s family on there (the schedule) this year. We’ve had many people requesting us to shoot for them but we can only get to so many. We will shoot for Mt. Beulah Church this year just like last year. It’s nice to see a church requesting us to shoot for them. If future new hosts keep requesting we will eventually get to them.”
Rusty also said he and his son, Winston have been working really hard on the Cherryville Historical Museum Shooters exhibit.
“Winston and I finally finished it. Hopefully, we’ll do a 'grand opening’ or something for it in the next few weeks.”
Traditional New Year’s Shooters group officer Gary Dellinger and his fellow members are looking forward to getting out again to shoot in the New Year, as they always have for many years now. Like all New Year’s shooters, the joy of getting to carry on a great and cherished tradition always puts a smile on their face and a spring in their step, no matter their age or who they are.
Said Mr. Dellinger, “We have had a pretty big increase in the number of new members this year. We had 30 new members join last year, and we are already over that number this year with two meetings left. 1997 was the first year we started keeping a cumulative membership list. Prior to that, the membership records are only for that year for those who paid.”
Gary continued, “In 1997, we had 101 members. This year, we just went over 650 members. That doesn’t mean they are all active this year, it just means at some time since 1997, they have filled out a membership application, been voted on by the group, and paid their dues.”
Dellinger noted that Cherryville makes up the majority of their members, with over half being Cherryville citizens.
“Vale, Crouse, Lincolnton and Bessemer City combined make up another 1/4th of the membership, and we even have members from as far away as Michigan and Pennsylvania,” he said.
As for the schedule, Dellinger said, “We are keeping some changes we made to the schedule last year. We will start at City Hall at midnight as usual, but from there we will be going out of the city limits where it is less populated to continue the route.  We will come back into the city around 6 a.m. This follows the traditional intent of the schedule to welcome in the New Year in the city, then go where not as many people will be bothered by the noise while most people sleep.
“We followed this route last year, and it was well received. It also puts more shots in the daytime in Cherryville where more citizens have a chance to see what is going on. It is often difficult to see at night when the smoke from the guns limits the view in the darkness.”
Gary noted there are a few new shots added this year.
“We will be shooting for the Kurt Thornburg family on Hwy. 274, south of town, and the Rev. Keith Huss family on Sellerstown Road. The Brian Kelly family on Hwy. 27 in Vale moved from the Lincoln County pre-shoot route to the New Years route this year as well. We had a few shoots come off the route last year, but we always have new ones wanting to be added, and we like to keep the number of shots to around 55,” he said.
In addition to himself as the group’s Vice President, Gary said the other officers for the group this year are Dennis Devine (President), Mark Moss (Secretary), and Will McSwain (Treasurer).  Megan Dellinger is the Administrative Assistant, and Scott Harrill is the safety officer and shot coordinator.
“Our board members are Bud Mellon, Ryan Pence, Josh Mellon, Charlie Canipe, Jason Wilson, Zeb Mellon, Kevin McSwain, Daniel Hendrick, Colton Brittain, Glenn Wilson, and Barry Sisk,” he said.

Eleven girls participated in the Miss Merry Christmas Pageant, which was held on Friday evening, Dec. 3 at the Cherryville Community Building. The pageant was an official event of the “Whoville Christmas on Main Street” celebration in downtown Cherryville.
The winners were Miniature Miss Annalayah Poston, Tiny Miss Taylin Hall, Little Miss Hope Logan, Young Miss Savannah Hubbard, and Majestic Miss Miley Littlejohn.
The princess award winners were Ellie Rudisill, Emma Johnson, Karter Edwards, Alexis Long, Delaney Hastings, and Heavenly Quinn.
The signatures award winners were Emma Johnson, Alexis Long, Delaney Hastings, Heavenly Quinn, Miley Littlejohn, Savannah Hubbard, and Karter Edwards. The overall signatures award winner was Annalayah Poston.
Savannah Hubbard was the overall photogenic award winner.  The photogenic award finalists were Annalayah Poston, Taylin Hall, Karter Edwards, and Miley Littlejohn.  Taylin Hall was the first application award winner.
The Little Miss Gastonia Pageant sponsored the pageant in partnership with the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce.

Former military veteran has created over 300 works, mostly from memory

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Somerset Court resident Harold Donald “Don” Harris is what you might call a “self-taught” artist. By his own admission the U.S. Army veteran (1971-1972) started painting when he was in the sixth grade and has had no art classes.
Harris, 68, really doesn’t know exactly what style his paintings are, though they are a bit similar to the New York-born American folk artist Grandma Moses, whose real name was Anna Mary Robertson Moses (1860-1961).
Harris favors using acrylic paints and paints in his room at Somerset Court, doing so from his wheelchair as various health issues related to diabetes don’t allow him to stand and paint using an easel.
Harris is also quick to let anyone know he is a conservative Republican and adds he is also a “Biblical person.”
Don’s step-dad was a 30-year Army man, and Don noted he was born in Germany, where his step-dad was stationed with the family. They later moved to Texas before coming to Valdese, N.C., to live in his stepfather’s parent’s house. Harris has three brothers, one of whom is deceased. He is also the father of two girls, both of whom live in Burke County.
“I have to say, the past 20 years have been very traumatic for me because of health issues. I have diabetes and bad neuropathy and am paralyzed from my left hip down,” he said.
Harris said he did attend college at the age of 57, going to Western Piedmont Community College for two years, majoring in U.S. Government and Political Debate.
“I have had two writing classes but no art classes,” he said.
Harris noted he has probably painted “…over 300 paintings” while living both
at Somerset and where he lived previously, at the Brian Center in Hickory. Prior to his being at the Brian Center, he said he lived at the Longview Assisted Living Center (two and a half years) in Morganton. He has spent a total of eight years living at the Brian Center and at Somerset Court.
Harris, who said he appreciates beauty, said he has never done a painting in just one day, preferring to take his time with them; sometimes as much as two weeks to finish one. He also makes his own frames, he added.
“I can’t say that I have had any artistic influence, and I call my own work, ‘Nostalgic’, because I paint stuff that is real, you know… real-life scenes. I don’t take requests for my art, I paint what I like and I also paint scenes from my memory,” he said.
Harris speculates he has been painting seriously now for about seven years, having picked it back up from where he left off.
“I guess it (the ability) never left me,” said Harris. “I haven’t forgot how to do it.”
So far as his affliction go, Don said he has never been angry at God, the way some folks can be when faced with debilitating illness or handicaps.
“My afflictions are my own fault,” said Harris, who said he is a reformed alcoholic, who says Christ is his higher power. He said all the bad things from the alcoholism have cleared up now.
“I do miss my church family though. I was raised a Baptist by my grandparents.”
Currently Harris is in need of art supplies as he has to have someone either go get them for him or bring some to him at the facility.
“Right now, I need paint, brushes, paint bottles, that sort of stuff. I’m low on everything,” he said.
Harris is a hard worker when it comes to the painting noting that once he gets focused on a painting, he tries to see it through as much as possible, adding however, he does get tired more easily these days and has to rest more often.
Harris said he wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, adding for them to all remember that “…Jesus is the Reason for the Season!”
If anyone would like to purchase or contribute art supplies to Mr. Harris, they may do so by purchasing them and bringing them to Somerset Court at 401 W. Academy St., Cherryville, and leaving them at the front desk for Mr. Harold “Don” Harris. You can also call them at (704) 445-1554 and ask what he might need, or when you can bring any supplies by to leave for him, if you wish. It is requested any art supplies brought to the facility for Mr. Harris be new and not used.

Many came by to wish him well and good fortune in his future

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

City Manager/Fire Chief Jeff Cash’s retirement reception – which took place on Monday, Nov. 29 – was well-attended by his many friends, family members, city employees, and many fire associates with whom he has worked or interacted with over his 40-plus years of local government and community service.
They all met at the CFD station house to wish him well in what is sure to be a bright future, filled with plans for family time, resting, reading, and exploring Mr. Cash’s many hobbies and fire service-related activities.
Fire service and community service is in the blood of the Cash family, as is evidenced by his long service to the Cherryville community; his wife’s service as a CFD wife and mother to two young men – Chad and Quentin – whose lives also are entrenched in working for the fire service and their communities in which they live.
According to an earlier Eagle article City Manager/Fire Chief Cash, announced his retirement as Fire Chief and City Manager to become effective on Jan. 1, 2022. Also announced in that same article is the upcoming promotion of Assistant Fire Chief Jason Wofford to Fire Chief, effective Jan. 2, 2022.
For the four-plus decades Chief Cash has served the City of Cherryville, his career at the Cherryville Fire Department says it all, starting his fire services life (in earnest) in December of 1981. Cash was later promoted to Fire Chief in 1984, and then promoted to City Manager/Fire Chief in 2018.
When asked how it felt to have so many friends, and well-wishers come out to share you great day, he replied, “It was a great day and I was so blessed to have so many family members, peers, colleagues, citizens, and friends come to my reception drop-in. It was an especially nice event and I thank Assistant Chief Wofford, the troops, Brittany, and my wife, Cynthia for hosting the event. It was also very special to me that some of the vendors we have utilized for years and years sponsored the event making it no cost to the city. Once again, I am a very blessed individual.”
Chief Cash’s wife and two sons said they were glad to see the day come as they know what Jeff has given to the city and to the fire department and how much he was looking forward to retirement.
Mrs. Cash said she knows retiring from one’s lifestyle and passion is a bittersweet thing for Jeff, but she also knows he will, after resting a bit, finds ways to get involved with his love of fire science in some manner.
Jeff’s sons and their wives said they are glad for him that he is retiring and will get to spend more time with his family and doing some traveling.
“He’s really been looking forward to this,” noted Chad and Quentin.
Though he will be officially retired after the first of the year, Chief Cash said he has a few things in the works, and hopes, after he takes time to rest up and relax, to work on those projects and such.
Said Chief Cash, “I will continue to do some side work with my consulting business, Bucket Brigade Consulting, LLC. I also may have an opportunity in the safety division with NASCAR. I also have been contacted by Jackie Ireland of VFIS Insurance about a position with their company. For the month of December, I simply plan to do a lot of resting and reading. I also plan to spend time with all my family for the Christmas season/holidays. Cynthia and I are going on a trip in late December.”
As for having any last minute words or instructions for AC Wofford and the guys at CFD, or for the City of Cherryville’s staff with whom he has worked, Chief Cash said, “Always provide the citizens and visitors of Cherryville with the highest, quality level of customer service possible. Always operate by keeping firefighter safety paramount (at all times); to keeping Cherryville citizens safe, and God bless the fire department and their families. This also includes all of the city’s wonderful, committed, dedicated, professional employees. They are the city’s most critical asset!”
Assistant Chief Jason Wofford said, “Chief Cash will most definitely be missed. I, along with all our members, will always regard his leadership, friendship, and love of our community as a guide to carry on our service.”
Dixie Wall, the City of Cherryville’s Finance Director, said of Mr. Cash, “Jeff was a dedicated and professional leader. I enjoyed working under his tenure and appreciate his encouragement and trust in my role as Finance/Administrative Utility Director for the City of Cherryville. I wish him the best and hope he can enjoy his retirement.”
Councilman Gary Freeman thanked Mr. Cash for his long service to Cherryville, adding, “He put Cherryville on the map, as far as fire science and firefighting are concerned. As city manager, he saved the city money and guided us (the Council) and helped spearhead the research on the bond referendum.”
City councilwoman Jill Parker-Puett said, “He is going to be missed. He has been quite a leader in the fire services and is highly respected by his peers.”
Mayor H.L. Beam, III said of Mr. Cash’s retirement, “I would say it has been an honor working with him, and I am happy for Jeff and his family, and wish them all the best!”

Signs heralding champ and his home town dedicated at Nov. 10 ceremony

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Whenever you hear people talking about boxing in general these days, one of the names sure to be mentioned is that of World Heavyweight Champion, the late Floyd Patterson, formerly of Waco, N.C. He was known as “The Gentleman of Boxing”, and he was every bit that, and more.
The Town of Waco had a dedication ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 10, to honor the late champ’s memory, inviting NC Boxing Commission Chairperson Valerie Dorsett to speak about Mr. Patterson and his contribution to the sport.
Patterson, who was born on Jan. 4, 1935, in the small town of Waco, and who passed away in 2006, made history, as Ms. Dorsett noted in the speech she gave that day at the Southern States store, located on 2330 Cherryville Rd., and just across from one of the signs, just as you head toward Waco from Cherryville. In addition to Dorsett, Waco Mayor John Barrett, and a host of local and state officials were on hand to pay tribute to the man whose humble beginnings took him not only to center stage in the greatest boxing arenas and venues of the world but helped him stand before and meet many great leaders, telling them his story and of his ability to become who he became.
In addition to eventually becoming the World  Heavyweight Champion – a fight he won on Nov. 30, 1956 by knocking out Archie Moore, making him, at 26, the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in the history of boxing – Patterson won the New York Golden Gloves title in 1951 and 1952. He then became an international sensation at age 17 when he took Olympic gold at the Helsinki, Finland Games in 1952.
In her speech, Ms. Dorsett  described  Patterson’s hard life growing up; his struggles with learning, as well as his rise through the ranks of boxing. She noted his many “firsts” in the world of boxing, speaking of all the famous boxers with whom he competed, not the least of which was the late Muhammad Ali, to whom he lost the WH boxing champ title.
As she noted, “Subsequently, Floyd retired from professional boxing with a record of 55 – 8, 40 KOs and one draw. This is a very impressive record for one who weighed only 185 pounds, with a 71-inch reach in the heavyweight division.”
Dorsett noted also that “…after retiring from boxing Floyd continued within the industry,” and was “…a Champion for boxing, testifying before a Congressional subcommittee.” Dorsett said Floyd also served as Chair of the New York State Athletic Commission and was also voted into the US Olympic Committee Hall of Fame in 1987, and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991.
In closing her speech, she said, “Floyd was definitely loved by the public,” and “…was an inspiration to all, and though he and his family moved to New York at an early age he never forgot his roots in North Carolina,” adding, “I had the honor of not only meeting Mr. Patterson but escorting him at a fight night and definitely agree that he was the Gentleman of Boxing. Waco, you really know how to make them and should be very proud of your offspring. He was truly one of the greatest boxers of all times!”
Mayor Barrett said in his opening comments that getting the signs was something he wanted to do for the Patterson Family and the Town of Waco since he came to the Mayor’s office.
“Mr. Ed Goforth and (Cleveland County Commissioner) Ronnie Whetstine approached me about this, about getting things started on this,” said Mayor Barrett.
“We are very proud to do this for the Patterson Family,” he said, then looking at the family gathered there, added, “This is for you.”
One of those attending the ceremony, NC State Senator, Ted Alexander said, “I’m glad this can be done for him (Floyd Patterson). This is a good day for the Patterson Family and for Waco.”
Representative Kelly Hastings, said, “I want to thank Mayor Barrett and the Town of Waco for doing this for the Patterson Family and for the Town of Waco as well.”
In addition to the various local, county and state officials at the ceremony, members of Floyd Patterson’
s family were on hand for the ceremony: Tyrone Patterson, Grady Patterson, Dorfus H. Patterson, Jr., Junior Phillips Patterson, Phedra Kee, Goldene Kee, Kevin Kee, Evelyn Haynes, Carolyn Wilson, and Winnie Keaton.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

The 2021 Cherryville Christmas Parade’s Grand Marshals have been chosen and they are the Lail Family, of Home Folks Café fame. It is a ‘first’ for them, though they said their dad’s truck was in a previous Christmas Parade.
The Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 11, starting at 10:30 a.m., and ending at 2 p.m., noted Chamber Director Mary Beth Tackett, who noted the Lail Family had been chosen for the unique honor.
The three Lail siblings –Thomas, Sandra, and Janet – who are very pleased with the honor, said they were informed by the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce as to their selection.
They sat down recently with the Eagle and talked about the restaurant, started in Cherryville sometime in the ‘30’s they said. It was then bought by their father and mother, Roy and Doris Lail, who ran it and prepared all the meals and dishes for which they are famous, for 50 years. While Roy and Doris are – sadly – no longer with us, their children have continued the family tradition, having grown up working in the beloved restaurant, learning all the recipes, and keeping as true to them as possible.
The three are quick to point out that while they and the restaurant get a lot of praise for the excellent meals, it is thanks also to the wonderful staff of waitresses, cooks, and others, as well as their excellent customers that really makes Home Folks what it is today – a great small-town diner with some of the best home-cooked food around.
Sisters, Sandra and Janet, noted that Thomas will actually be riding in the parade as they will still be cooking up some great food while the parade is moving down Main Street that Saturday.
“That’s usually our busiest time,” said Janet, who said of their being chosen as Grand Marshal, “We feel honored to have been chosen.”
Thomas agreed, adding he too was “…glad to chosen” to ride in the parade.
Mrs. Tackett said the Chamber and the City are glad to be able to have a parade again as COVID-19 restrictions basically shut everything Christmas down in 2020; no parade; no Who-Ville.
As for the time in an earlier parade, Thomas pointed out a somewhat faded photo of their dad’s 1946 Chevrolet panel truck making its way down Main Street in the 2004 parade. In the photo, Mrs. Lail can be seen happily throwing out candy and treats to the little kids lining the street.
Janet said her love of Cherryville’s Christmas Parades stems from the fact that she loves seeing the kids come out for them.
“Just seeing the joy on their faces! It’s worth it all and brings back a lot of great memories,” she said.
Another facet of Cherryville’s downtown Christmas tradition many will remember is, as Thomas reminded everyone, his dressing up as Santa Claus and walking up and down Main Street handing out candy to the merchants and shoppers during the wonderful holiday season.
Said Thomas, “I have been Santa since 1992. I love it! It’s a lot of fun watching people’s faces as you come up to them, hand out some candy and say, ‘Merry Christmas!’”
For more information on the Cherryville Christmas Parade, check out the Chamber’s website, their Facebook page or call them at (704) 435-3451.

The four–called “Patriot Angels” by the Court – were overjoyed at the recognition

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Four Veterans currently living at Somerset Court of Cherryville were recently treated to a ceremony in their honor on Nov. 11, Veteran’s Day 2021.
The four are Harold “Don” Harris (Army), Claude Dixon (Navy), Robert Gore (Army), and Dale Leagon (Navy).
In a media release, Cigi Sparks, Communications Manager for the assisted living center, said the Court wanted to host the Veteran’s Day event on that day in order to recognize the military vets who have served their country and who now reside at Somerset. Sparks noted Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, and members of the Post 100 American Legion, Unit 100 of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and staff members of the Court would be on hand to help these vets celebrate their day.
The event started at 2:30 p.m., and though a light rain was coming down, nothing dampened the enthusiasm of those in attendance.
Cigi noted the men were called their “Patriot Angels”, a title written at the head of their certificates. The certificates were presented to the four men by Mayor Beam and Ms. Sparks, along with Unit 100 Ladies Auxiliary and current National American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Commander Jill Parker-Puett. Assisting the Mayor and Mrs. Puett were Post 100 American Legion Commander Mike Robinson, Post 100 American Legion Vice-Commander Monica Lockwood, and members of the Post 100 American Legion Color Guard, Brian Dailey and Mickey Brown, as well as Unit 100 Auxiliary member Lynette Christensen.
Sparks also noted Somerset Court is home to 42 residents, who are taken care of by approximately 30 staff members.
Mrs. Puett, who is also a Cherryville Councilwoman, Mayor Beam, and the Legion members pinned the four veterans with small red, white, and blue ribbons with shield-shaped badges attached, in honor of their great service to America, then they, with Sparks’ help, presented the men with their certificates.
The four men have each been residents at Somerset Court for a few years now, and to a man, each said they were not only honored to receive the pins and the certificates, but were humbled and overjoyed they were recognized on behalf of the many American men and women who served.
Harold “Don” Harris noted also we should never forget all those veterans who didn’t get to come home, and who gave their all for this great country.
Navy veteran Claude Dixon, who formerly worked in the newspaper business for the Cherryville Eagle and Republic newspapers, said the recognition on Veteran’s Day was “…a bit of a surprise, but a good one!”
After the pinning, Mrs. Puett read from a prepared speech on the folding of the American flag and on the history of Veteran’s Day. She also talked about her father, a veteran of WWII, who she said “fought for our flag.”
Mrs. Puett noted the blue field on the flag stands for our sky; the red stripes for the blood, sweat and tears; and the white stripes for peace. She went to describe, as the Legion Color Guard folded the American flag, what each of the 13 folds stands for: Light, Belief, Remembrance (of our Vets), Warrior Nature, Tribute to Courage, Where our Hearts Lie, Tribute to our Armed Forces, Tribute to the Ones who died and to Honor their Mothers, Tribute to Womanhood, Tribute to Fathers, Eyes of the Hebrew God of Abraham and Isaac on us, the Eyes of Christians watching, and lastly, the Complete Stars of the Field, representing that In God We Trust!
“The final shape of the folded American flag is in the shape of America’s first President, George Washington’s tri-cornered hat. It is then given to the wife or family of a fallen veteran,” she concluded.
“Taps” was then performed by Legionnaire Mickey Brown, and the program was concluded.
Harold Harris did comment on how we should never forget those left behind in Afghanistan because we owe them for their help to our military men and women who served there before the recent pull-out.

 

Butter Me Up Bakery Chef and staff serve up a bevy of great sweet treats

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Watching Chef Rebecca Goins hard at work, it’s easy to see why she and her crew do such a great job at baking such fantastic sweet treats and other culinary delights at Goins’ Downtown Cherryville shop, Butter Me Up Bakery.
But Goins isn’t just a baker or confectioner, she is also one of many of America’s military veterans, men and women who served their country, and are now back home, like Rebecca, who is serving her hometown folks in another, yet just as important way, making them smile and go, “Yum!” when they taste her delicious foods.
Simply put, Rebecca Goins is an entrepreneur who passionate about her business and chosen profession and who loves what she does.
Goins said she served in the Navy as a Master-at-Arms, which she said is also known as the Military Police.
“I went to bootcamp at Great Lakes, Illinois, (and) Police Academy in San Antonio, Texas,” she said.
Goins noted she was then stationed in San Diego, California, with the base police.
“I was deployed from there to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where I was a detention guard,” which she said was a “…six-month deployment (that) turned into two years of permanent duty.”
She continued, “I then served in Naples, Italy, for two years as base police. And lastly, (I served in) Manama, Bahrain, for my last year as base police and anti-terrorism.” Goins was honorably discharged in February 2010.
“I chose the military for the college opportunities and to explore the world beyond our small town,” noted Mrs. Goins, who is originally from Louisiana but who moved to Cherryville when she was 13.
“It (Cherryville) has been my home ever since,” she said.
As for her love of cooking and baking and such, Goins smiled and said, “I’ve always loved to cook. My transition back home as a civilian was very hard and I used cooking as a therapy to help refocus my life and purpose. It is a passion that brings happiness not only to myself but others, as well as it gives me a way to reconnect with my community.”
Goins noted that Butter Me Up Cakes and Catering opened Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021 in Cherryville. She originally ran her business out of her home, but she and husband Justin decided it was time to have her own building, she said, in a 2020 Eagle article on the grand opening of her business. She still has Justin and their daughters, Lily and Piper, helping out as they can.
Also helping Rebecca out in the bakery are her sister, Madeline “Maddie” Anthony (cookie decorator and – as Goins notes –“so much more!”); and friend, Maleena White, who works in the kitchen and is one of the idea creators, as Rebecca termed it. They are joined by Megan Carpenter, who “works the front of the house” and Earlene Roberson, as well as brother-in-law, Justin Anthony, whom Rebecca called “an all-around handy man, tech support.”
The bakery is open five days a week, she said, “Monday through Fridays, from 9 a.m., to 5 p.m.; and from 9 a.m., to 3 p.m., on Saturdays. Goins noted they don’t do off-site catering anymore but will take call-ins for pickup.
To contact Butter Me Up Cakes and Catering, Rebecca said to call her at (980) 241-6490, or email her at buttermeup.cakesandcatering@gmail.com.

Cherryville High School has had a pep club, affectionately known as the METALHEADS, for several years now. This year the students wanted to be a little more involved in the themes for our Friday night football games. As a group we decided we wanted to do a “Pink Out” in support of cancer awareness. We just recently lost one of our former staff members whose husband still works as a teacher at our school to a battle with cancer.
We sold a little over 100 T-shirts to our students and community. In addition, a few businesses donated directly to the cause. We will have just over $1,000 to donate to Atrium Health Foundation to help support cancer patients and their families. This year our group has selected our game with Bessemer City High School to support the cause and spread awareness.
Moving forward, we would like to work with another school in our conference to have a “Pink Out” game where both schools sell shirts and collect local business donations from our two communities to raise money for the people that Atrium Health Foundation serves.
One of our CHS alumni works with the cancer programs at Atrium Health Foundation and will be helping us plan our event in the coming years to increase our efforts to raise money and awareness for those that suffer from this terrible disease.
At last Friday’s Oct. 29, donation, while surrounded by a sea of pink, we honored the memory of our former teacher, Mrs. Teresa Henley, by donating to the Atrium Health Foundation.
We could not have made this possible without our staff and students supporting the cause, as well as several of our community businesses sending financial support.
A huge thank you to The Medical Center Pharmacy of Cherryville; Mister Sparky/Wise Electric; Watson Electric; Freemans Car Stereo; Print It LLC; Fins and Feathers Lifestyle apparel; and the Cherryville Metalheads.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville High School senior Landrie Wofford and a number of her classmates and fellow “Kindness Club” members recently brought a great message to a couple of local Cherryville schools – “Say NO to bullying!”
Ms. Wofford said they created posters for W.B. Beam Intermediate School, noting that each poster has a unique message, such as, “One kind word can change someone’s entire day.”
Landrie organized the project a year or so ago, she said, along with then-CHS senior Ben Hayes, and a handful of others at the high school. In addition to taking the posters to WBBI, Ms. Wofford said they also had “World Unity Day/Say No to Bullying Day – Wear Orange”.
“The positive school poster project was started back in 2019 and was purchased from a generous grant from Walmart, Carolina Federal Credit Union, and donations other community members as well as money raised from fundraisers due to the efforts of the Kindness Club in 2020” noted Landrie. “Due to the cost of the posters, there are three phases – we are on Phase Two.”
Kindness Club members from 2020 helped raise funds through fundraisers, including a “Stand Up for Others” tee-shirt that helped purchase these posters at Beam Intermediate and Cherryville Elementary, Wofford said.
She continued, “The idea for the posters was set from the initial goal of the Kindness Club when I first formed the club with Ben (Hayes – currently a sophomore at Appalachian State University). We set goals to hang these positive posters in the school’s bathrooms. Also, we set weekly goals to send out positive messages on social media and throughout the community (on cars, mail, “to go” food containers, etc.).”
The plan was to work as a club to achieve monthly kindness activities that would benefit our community and encourage others to spread kindness, noted Landrie, who added, “The co-sponsor team also committed to following the guidelines for the National Anti-Bullying Association.”
As for the wearing of orange, Wofford said October 20, 2021, the National Day for Unity, was chosen and the purpose was to make a visible stand against bullying by encouraging students to wear orange.
“Orange is the official color for anti-bullying and Cherryville schools proudly made a visible stand to wear orange to stand up for others!” she said.
CHS students painted the school’s Spirit Rock orange, shared positive social media messages, and participated in acts of kindness activities for random students. Also, this week, Cherryville Elementary students colored a “Kindness Matters” coloring sheet as a reminder to be kind to one another. Landrie said she volunteers at the school each week to learn from guidance counselor, Mrs. Beth Moss, by helping children with activities, while promoting positivity and kindness to children.
Wofford noted her future goals are to be a Trauma Counselor with a concentration in Art Therapy and work with children. adding that she finds such value with working with Mrs. Moss.
At WBBI, students were encouraged to fill out an “Act of Kindness” BINGO sheet. Together, these students helped make a stand against bullying and helping provide acceptance to all students.
Said Landrie, “Mr. Timmy Fleming, Mrs. Kimberly Beam and Mr. Mark Reep have all been very helpful with spreading the message of kindness to their students daily and helping with many Kindness Club efforts over the past year.”
Though the Kindness Club initiative officially started in 2019, it was an idea that began in the 8th grade, she said.
“Its purpose is to encourage students to focus on positive thoughts and actions. It is meant to ensure that all students feel included, safe, and encouraged to be their own unique self!” said Wofford.
In 2020, a formal club was started but limited activities were allowed due to COVID restrictions, though, Hayes and Wofford helped raise funds to pay for custom positive reminder posters hung at Cherryville schools in 2020 and 2021. These kindness posters, that are hung in our local schools help to remind students to be kind to one another and to love themselves.
A very small 10-member club in 2020 raised additional funds and participated in additional local volunteer work for our community and school. Also, Ms. Wofford has also painted murals at Cherryville High School to promote kindness messages.
Said Wofford, “Mr. Shawn Hubers, who is currently the CHS principal, was previously the Cherryville Elementary principal. He helped choose appropriate posters and quotes in the school. Currently, Mrs. Audrey Hovis, Principal, has additionally worked with me to pull through the kindness poster/program initiative for the 2021 school year.
“Mr. Todd Dellinger, Principal at WBBI, and Mr. Timmy Fleming, assistant teacher, also worked with this initiative for their students to display these posters in their school.”
All the projects have been planned and cleared with Principals Hubers, Dellinger and Hovis, as Wofford and Hayes wanted to make sure the chosen messages were appropriate and relevant to each school.
Landrie said this year’s CHS Kindness Club is led by Mr. Robert Webb, a teacher at CHS.
“He has done an amazing job planning and encouraging students to be part of this important club!” she said, adding. “This year, over 150 students have signed up for the Club!”
Kindness Club Vice President, Payton Cook will be carrying the initiative forward after Landrie graduates and the club will have grade level sponsors to ensure all students are involved. Also, each month, all members of the club will have monthly activities to help remind others to choose kindness through one kind act at a time in our schools and community.
Some examples will be community clean-up, teacher/staff appreciation week, random act of kindness activities, can food drives, volunteer work and spreading positivity by encouraging positive messages in our community events.
Wofford noted, “At the beginning of school, several members of the club made freshmen welcome 'goodie bags’ to remind students that they are never alone, and that they are special and accepted. The club’s wish is to raise additional money for kindness posters at our schools and our local sports complexes.”
Landrie continued, “The mission of the Kindness Club is to make a difference through random acts of kindness….one student at a time. I know each person in the club will do an amazing job working together. I am so glad to have so many people be part of this club. It is a group effort for sure, and it isn’t about me.
“If one student can feel better about themselves and spread kindness to another person, then all these efforts are worth it! I know we can make a difference as a team!”
Wofford added, “None of this would be possible without the support from our school’s principals: Mr. Hubers, Mr. Dellinger, and Mrs. Hovis and Mr. Webb, who is our amazing advisor and leader. Also, many other people in our community have supported this club and helped in so many ways. Everything that has happened is because of many kind leaders who truly care for students and want every student to feel safe and included!”
Landrie’s parents, Jason and Danielle Wofford, said of their daughter’s work with the Kindness Club, “We are very proud of Landrie for founding this club and then starting the official 'Kindness Club’ with Ben. They both worked many many months preparing for this initiative and club.
“She spoke about this idea and wanted to paint murals when she was in the eighth grade. She has always noticed peers that were left out and this is how it began. We are most proud that she realizes that every idea or action is because of the efforts of many people who care. At the end of the day, this is what is important to us as her parents, and we are beyond proud of her and the efforts of all members of the club!”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

W. Blaine Beam Intermediate Principal Todd Dellinger is still a man on a mission. He has some students he wants to recognize for their hard work and he is once again looking for sponsors for WBBI’s Student of the Month program.
Dellinger has sent out requests to the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce and to various local businesses asking for said sponsors to come to their rescue, if you will.
Said Mr. Dellinger recently, “A student in each class in each cohort is recognized with a treat bag including a $5 McDonalds gift card for a current total of eight students each month.
“We would like a sponsor each month from now through next June. We will recognize the sponsor on our school sign and in our messaging to parents. We are suggesting a $30 to $50 donation be made.”
Due to the COVID-19 situation and its negative impact of the school systems and the local economy, Dellinger, like many of his peers, are still unable to do much in the way of fundraising, adding that being able to get sponsors now would really help them put some smiles on their student’s faces.
In a brief interview, Mr. Dellinger elaborated, “In the past, as I’ve noted, we have been able to really count on fundraisers for those extra dollars, but we can’t do that like we want to, which is why I initially reached out to the Chamber of Commerce.”
“These recognitions are to help inspire the students to work at a good level,” he said. “We had done some recognitions like this in the past. We don’t have everything we need right now to recognize our kids and we want to do more. The kids also have behavior incentives as well as academic incentives to achieve in order to become a Student of the Month.”
Dellinger wanted to say a word of thanks to Mrs. Kim Beam, who works on getting the students the recognitions they deserve.
“She works very hard at this, as does all our staff. It’s so important at this time to keep our students and staff safe, so we can’t, as I said earlier, do the fundraisers as before. These monthly sponsorships go a long way to help,” he noted.
Dellinger continued, “I was very touched by those who have so far given. We have made plaques for all the businesses that have so far donated. We’ve had an incredible response so far. For that, W. Blaine Beam’s students and staff want to express our deepest gratitude!”
Mr. Dellinger said for those who wish to give or sponsor, they can contact him at (704) 836-9114, or email him at rtdellinger@gaston.k12.nc.us, or they can mail donations to W. Blaine Beam Intermediate at 401 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Donna Lockett, Executive Director, Gaston Together: Communities of Excellence noted in a recent media release, they are in the process of requesting nominations for their 2022 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Awards.
Locket said, via the media release, “The Gaston Clergy & Citizens Coalition (GC3), an initiative of Gaston Together, will present the 2022 Gaston Together MLK Unity Awards on Monday, Jan. 17, the MLK national holiday,” adding the details for the event “…are pending based on current coronavirus guidelines.”
Lockett also noted GT’s MLK Unity Award was established in 2004 by the GC3,
to  recognize “…current or former Gaston
County citizens who have performed exemplary community service to help build bridges of unity across lines of race, class, gender, faith and/or among municipalities within our county.” Names of the honorees are engraved on the MLK Monument located at the MLK Plaza, she said, adding that the Plaza is at the corner of Long Avenue and MLK Way in downtown Gastonia.
Locket said past winners include various notable community members such as Senator Marshall Rauch, N. A. Smith, Mildred Sadler, the 1964 Gastonia Human Relations Committee, Rev. Houston Matthews, Danny Jackson, Sam Shoukry and Richard and Lucy Penegar, just to name a few.
To get the nomination form and award criteria, contact Gaston Together at llee@gastontogether.org.
The completed nomination forms must be received no later than 5 p.m., on Nov. 1, 2021.
“The selection committee composed of former MLK Unity Award Honorees will determine the 2022 recipients,” said Ms. Lockett. “The award recipients will be notified in mid-late December.”
The media release also noted the GC3 is a county-wide, non-denominational ministerial association formed in the late 1990’s by Gaston Together. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at 9 a.m., normally at First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, Gastonia, or virtually, pending coronavirus guidelines.
For more information, please call Gaston Together at (704) 867-9869.
Founded in 1997, the Gaston Together mission is to create a Community of Excellence by bringing people and resources of Gaston County together to address big community challenges.
Said Lockett, “Implementation of the purpose is achieved through the principles and best practices of collaboration,
facilitation, promotion and the anticipation of possibilities. Current focus areas are Community Pride Building programs, Faith-Based Leadership, Civic Engagement Leadership, Creating a Culture of Wellness, and Gaston Vision 2040.”
She continued, “Mr. Jason Austell is serving as the 2021 Board Chair.”

Meghann Sneed one of 14 nominated for school administration program

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

John Chavis Middle School teacher, Meghann Britton Sneed, is one of 14 Gaston County Schools’ finest to be nominated to the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy.
Sneed, 30, is a 7th-grade Math and Science teacher at the Cherryville middle school and has been a teacher for five years, she said, having first taught for three years at Belmont Central Elementary School before coming to Chavis. She said she is “happy to have been nominated” and is looking forward to growing and going forward as an education professional.
Mrs. Sneed comes from a family of educators as her mother and father both teach in Cherryville school: her mom, Lara Britton, is a current 5th-grade teacher at W.B. Blaine Beam Intermediate and her father, Jeff Britton, has worked for Gaston County schools for several years.
Meghann noted, “My dad is currently is a Pre-Kindergarten Assistant at Cherryville Elementary, and husband, Josh Sneed is an EC Assistant at W.B. Beam Intermediate as well.”
She and her husband have been married for almost four years now, she said, adding, “We have a 2-year-old little boy, Jude. We also have a pug, Karl. We love to take walks in our neighborhood and be outside.”
Additionally, Mrs. Sneed said her grandmother, Penny Buff, is a retired high school English teacher who taught at Bessemer City High School for a number of years.
Sneed noted she was informed of the nomination to the Leadership Academy via a letter from Dr. Melissa Wilson Balknight, Associate Superintendent of Academic Services of Gaston County Schools.
In that letter, Dr. Balknight stated GCS “…looks forward to having (Sneed) among the 14 teachers who will complete the master’s degree program in school administration through Gardner-Webb University. Furthermore, we anticipate having you prepared to be an administrator in our school district within the next two years.”
The school system told Sneed they were very impressed with her credentials and achievements in education as well as her eagerness to become a school administrator in the county.
The letter to Mrs. Sneed closed with these words, “We are confident that this
See JCMS, Page 10
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 quality program will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and preparation necessary to serve as an effective administrator and educational leader for Gaston County Schools.”
Sneed noted that with the scholarship, which is essentially what this is, she noted, both Gardner-Webb University and Gaston County Schools will be covering the amount of her tuition for the full 20 months.
“This averages out to $20,000 per person,” she said. “I will only be responsible for the cost of my books, which will be about $200 per semester.”
Sneed is a 2009 CHS grad who attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, graduating from there in 2014.
“I earned my bachelor’s degree in Statistics with a minor in English. I worked in the corporate world for a few years and decided to go back to school to become a teacher.”
She noted her classes for the master’s “…will not take time away from (her) teaching at Chavis for now. Classes will be online a few nights a week with a few Saturdays in person per semester.”
As for what she wants this graduate degree to do for her, so far as your advancing in your chosen field and what Gaston County Schools expects from her in return, she had this to say, “I would love for one day to become an Assistant Principal and possibly a Principal in the future. As a participant, Gaston County Schools requires a commitment of five years with GCS after the program.”
John Chavis Middle School Principal Matt W. Rikard said of Meghann and her nomination to the Leadership Academy, “Mrs. Sneed is a leader in her class and I feel confident that she will excel in this new journey. As she steps out of her classroom, I feel confident that she will grow into a phenomenal leader in the building at JCMS and for Gaston County.”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville’s HomeTown Direct Care has a new physician on staff in the person of Dr. Brianna Buchanan, DO.
The Nebraska native, a Board-certified Family Physician, came on staff at Dr. Thomas R. White’s Direct Care clinic, located at 301 East Main St., this summer, Dr. White noted.
In a media release sent out by Dr. White’s office, Dr. Buchanan’s medical interests are “…in patients of all ages,” adding she “…has a special passion and expertise in women’s health.”
Said Dr. White, “We now have three physicians at HomeTown Direct Care. Dr. Josh Carpenter joined us in 2017 and he is primarily in the Shelby office.”
He continued, “I feel incredibly fortunate that Dr. Buchanan made the decision to join us. She will be in the Cherryville office. She is incredibly well trained, bright, personable, and community-minded. Patients are going to love her. She is exactly the kind of physician I would choose for myself and my family.”
Doctor Buchanan noted that although she was originally interested in becoming a graphic artist, she had a greater interest in biology, and thanks to her brother, Dr. Josh Knott, who is an Emergency Medicine physician, she made the decision to go into medicine and has never looked back.
Her father, Paul Knott, is the senior pastor of Hastings Berean Bible Church, she said, and mom, Betty, is a Preschool teacher’s assistant. She has, in addition to her brother, Josh, three other siblings: sister, Tiffanie Ediger, and brothers: Jason, and Caleb Knott.
Said Dr. Buchanan, “All my siblings are older and we are about two to three years apart in age.”
Doctor Buchanan graduated from Adams Central High School in 2008 where she was involved in cross country, track, and chorus.
Doctor Buchanan said she heard about Campbell University through researching medical schools in the local area while working her first job out of college in Greenville, S.C., doing medical research with the Surgery Department.
“At Campbell, they treated me well and cared for me as a person, not just a test score,” she said.
While at Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Buchanan said she “…initially considered Internal Medicine,” but is glad she chose the specialty of Family medicine.
“In the end as it is a better fit for me,” she said, adding, “I am thankful for my DO training. I did my internship and residency through Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Harnett Health. It was a dual MD/DO accredited program.”
Direct Primary Care, the model that Dr. White’s HomeTown Direct Care is based off of, is, said Dr. Buchanan, “…an innovative alternative to insurance-driven medicine with a low monthly membership fee that gives patients more time with their doctor and access to their doctor at their fingertips.”
She continued, “I heard about this model in residency when a woman who did this spoke to my residency group. She said it ‘saved her career’ and I wanted to preserve my career and not have to save it. After meeting Dr. Carpenter and Dr. White, I realized it was possible for me to do. I believe it is a better model for patients and doctors to receive the best possible primary care through increased time and access of patients to their doctor.”
Doctor Buchanan is married, she said. “My husband’s name is Logan. We do not have any children. He is a Marketing manager.” She lists as her hobbies, in addition to her art, she also loves travel, outdoor adventure, and singing and playing the guitar.
As for her aforementioned ‘passion for women’s health’, Dr. Buchanan said, “I want to serve the women of this community through prevention, wellness, and treatment. For a woman to be well and be at her best, I feel self-care is so important and part of that is having a good team including a physician readily available to her.”
To learn more about Dr. Buchanan and HomeTown Direct Care, and to schedule a “get acquainted” visit, either call (704) 435-1100, or contact them through their website at www.hometowndirectcare.com.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL
Editor
michael@cfmedia.info

Cherryville City Council’s Monday, Sept. 13, meeting’s agenda was – at least according to the Mayor and City Manager – one of the largest, so far as topics to be covered, they have had in a while.
In the 24 or so agenda itemized topics, Council took care of a couple of Planning and Zoning issues, recognized a number of City employees, adopted minutes from earlier meetings, recognized the World Series Dixie Girls Softball team, the Angels, revised the City’s COVID-19 policy, read a couple of proclamations, and approved various listed agenda items.
The Council immediately voted on and approved the minutes of previous meetings, after which, Mayor Beam’s comments on the City’s 20th 911 Remembrance Ceremony and CFD vehicle push-in event, in which he thanked Mayor Pro-Tem and Councilwoman Jill Parker-Puett for standing in for him, were made.
There were no citizens to be heard so Council moved to recognize the 2021 Dixie Girls Angels All-Stars softball team and their coaches for winning the Dixie Girls World Series for their age group in South Carolina. The resolution noted the Angels were only one of three teams representing N.C. at the Moncks Corner, S.C., DGSB World Series in July of this year. The little ladies went 4-0 and won the double elimination tournament while playing teams from S.C., Georgia, and Florida, said Mayor Beam.
Mayor Beam recognized with a proclamation, that the week of Sept. 17-23, was Constitution Week. He presented the proclamation to representatives of the Tryon Resolves Chapter of the DAR. He asked the citizens of Cherryville to “…reaffirm the ideals of the Framers of the Constitution had in 1787 by vigilantly protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties, remembering that lost rights may never be regained.”
Then the Council recognized City employee Nelson “Ned” Yates for his five years of service to the City, followed by Fire Capt. Nathan Bowman being recognized for being the Western NC Association of Firefighter’s
Fire Officer of the Year, which was presented to him by NCAFF President Todd McMurray.
Mayor Beam and the Council then recognized The Cherryville Police Department and the Cherryville Fire Department for their Certificate of Safety Achievement Awards from the NCDOL. Captain Brian Doolittle accepted the CPD’s First Year Silver Award Certificate from Mayor Beam and Capt. Chris “Pudge” Cash accepted the CFD’s Ninth Consecutive Year Award, also from the NCDOL, from Mayor Beam.
Cherryville Financial Director Dixie Wall was recognized next and accepted her Public Power Rising Star Award from Mayor Beam.
Though originally hired as the Finance Director, Mayor Beam noted how Dixie “…quickly assumed the responsibility of Administrative Utility Director,” adding that she is, “a role model, a strong advocate of ‘hometown power’, and has improved the City’s electric system by implementing (the Advanced Metering Infrastructure) technology that will be helpful for the citizens.”
He noted how fortunate the City is to have someone like Dixie looking out for their interests.
Dixie thanked everyone and said, “I can’t do what I do without the help of all the department heads, City Manager Jeff Cash, and the City staff.”
Mr. Cash said, “Dixie is great at her job! She takes on multiple roles within the city. Her education and skill set are a blessing to our organization. She and her staff are very dedicated to serving our citizens at the highest levels! Our organization is fortunate to have Mrs. Wall as a department head. She is a great leader and innovator, always improving service deliver to our citizens!”
Mayor Beam read a proclamation noting the week of Oct. 3-9, as Fire Prevention Week in Cherryville, with the slogan for Cherryville’s citizens to “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.” He also proclaimed that same week as NC Public Power Week.
Council then held Public Hearings on zoning changes. These were brough to Council by P&Z Director Derrick Mackey. After some discussion, Council unanimously approved the zoning change and the amending of the text of a zoning ordinance for a Single Family Cluster to be used under a Special Use Permit.
Council then recognized the City’s Water Treatment Plant and its Director, Patty Hall, for the AWOP Award. Cherryville is one of 64 NC cities to receive the award.
Said Mayor Beam, “We are very proud of Patty and the Water Plant staff for making sure our City has clean water.”
Council also approved a revised COVID-19 policy, approved ARPF (American Rescue Plan Funds) for a wastewater generator, and heard the updated information on insurance coverage for volunteers who work on City property, with the caveat that Council doesn’t have to vote just yet on this issue.
The City Council’s work session will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at the Fire Department’s training room at 5:30 p.m.