November 2011 - The Claremont Courier
Transcription
November 2011 - The Claremont Courier
CLAREMONT INFORMATION THE CC LAREMONT OURIER Volume 5 Issue 11 – November, 2011 GIVING A VOICE TO EASTERN CATAWBA COUNTY! Catawba and Claremont to host annual holiday parades Monthly Community Calender First Sunday – Claremont Youth Council at Claremont City Hall – 3 p.m. First Monday – Claremont City Council at Claremont City Hall – 7 p.m.; Bunker Hill Athletic Boosters at Bunker Hill High School – 7 p.m.; and Bunker Hill Optimist Club at Club House – 7:45 p.m. Second Monday – Claremont Planning Board at Claremont City Hall – 7 p.m. Third Monday – Bunker Hill Optimist Club at Club House – 7:45 p.m. Fourth Monday – Claremont Appearance Committee at O’Cup Bean & Bakery – 6 p.m. Every Tuesday – Claremont Volunteer Fire Department at Claremont Fire Department – 7 p.m. Fourth Tuesday – Claremont Friends of the Library at Claremont Branch Library – 6 p.m. Third Wednesday – Claremont Senior Citizens “Senior’s Morning Out” at First Baptist Church of Claremont Fellowship Hall – 8:30 a.m. Every Thursday – Catawba Valley Rotary Club at Catawba Country Club, Newton – 7 a.m. First Thursday – Bunker Hill Band Boosters at Bunker Hill High School Band Room – 6:30 p.m. Second Thursday – Claremont Rescue Squad Business Meeting at Claremont Rescue Squad – 7 p.m. Third Thursday – Claremont Lions Club at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Family Life Center – 7 p.m.; and Claremont Rescue Squad Continuing Education at Claremont Rescue Squad – 7 p.m. Every Friday – Claremont Farmers Market at City Hall – 3-6 p.m., June-September Third Saturday – Claremont Optimist Club at Francis Sigman Park – 3 p.m. Fourth Saturday – Claremont Recreation Committee at Claremont Branch Library – 7 p.m. Claremont City Hall – 3288 East Main Street – Phone: 459-7009 – Fax: 459-0596 www.cityofclaremont.org Claremont City Council Mayor – David Morrow, Mayor Pro-Tem – Tim Lowrance, Shawn R. Brown, Nicky E. Setzer & Dale Sherrill Claremont Planning & Adjustment Board Jeff Barkley, Nick Colson, Ronald H. Cox, Franklin Harris, Rupert Little, Jack Ledford, Larry C. Pannell, Robert E. Smith & Elizabeth Smyre Claremont Appearance Committee Jan Colson, Sue Karen Falls, Ken Isenhour, Kevin Isenhour, Glenn Morrison, Jane Robbins & Judy Setzer Claremont Recreation Committee Shawn Brown, Clara Carson, Jason Chaplain, Betty Cloninger, Nanci Gregory, Danny Hedrick, Tim Lowrance, Roger Shook, Susan Tucker & Mary Watts Claremont City Staff City Manager – Doug Barrick, City Planner – Laurie LoCicero, Finance Director, Stephanie Corn, Receivables Clerk & Receptionist – Glenda Yount, Administrative Support Clerk – Mandy Buff, City Attorney – Robert M. Grant, Jr., Special Events Coordinators – Henry Helton & Susan Tucker CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 FREE Distributed Throughout Bandys, Catawba, Catfish, Claremont, Conover, Denver, Lake Norman, Long Island, Mooresville, Murray’s Mill, Hickory, Monbo, Newton, Oxford, Sherrills Ford & Terrell. New businesses continue to open around the area Miller Farms, Smoky D’s, and Claremont Hardware & Farm Supply are now open for business. BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY CLAREMONT & CONOVER – Even with a weak economy that some experts claim will continue into 2012 and beyond, numerous new businesses have been opening their doors to potential customers throughout eastern Catawba County over the last few months. Communities such as Claremont and Conover have seen a steady increase CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 PHOTO BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY The Bunker Hill High School Marching Band will be one of the performing bands at the seventh annual Town of Catawba Veteran’s Day Parade and Festival in downtown Catawba on Nov. 12, and the 27th annual City of Claremont Christmas Parade in downtown Claremont on Dec. 3. numerous floats, marching bands, beauty Annual Catawba parade and festival pageant winners, area churches, area busischeduled for Nov. 12, and Claremont nesses, civic and community organizations, parade scheduled for Dec. 3. politicians, antique cars, tractors, and law BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY enforcement and fire and safety vehicles. The Town of Catawba will host its seventh CATAWBA & CLAREMONT – According to annual Veteran’s Day Parade and Festival town and city officials, plans are currently un- on Main Street in downtown Catawba on derway to host the annual Town of Catawba Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the paVeteran’s Day Parade and Festival, and the rade will step-off at 2 p.m. The festival will annual City of Claremont Christmas Parade. feature a petting zoo, inflatables, live gospel Both events typically draw large crowds, music, arts and crafts vendors, area busiand to many area citizens are the official ness information booths, food sales and start to the holiday season. Both parades much more. All residents and businesses in will be held rain or shine, and will feature CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 Group effort brings holiday production to Newton stage NewArt School of Ballet, Kontras Quartet and Nashville Ballet to present ‘The Nutcracker Suite.’ BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY NEWTON – With the holiday season rapidly approaching; the NewArt School of Ballet, the Kontras Quartet, and the Nashville Ballet will help bring the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker Suite” to life on the Newton-Conover Auditorium Stage in December. The production will be held on Dec. 2 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., for area school children; and again on Dec. 3 at 2 and 6 p.m., for the general public. All performances will last around CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Catawba moves forward with sidewalk repairs Claremont Conover re-adopts swears in Youth official zoning map Council members at Oct. 3 meeting Budget amendment ordinance passed to pay for sidewalk repairs on East Central and South Main Street. Nine students from Bandys and Bunker Hill High School sworn in at Oct. 3 city council meeting. BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY CATAWBA – The Town of Catawba Town Council approved Ordinance 2011-10 – Budget Amendment – East Central and South Main Street Sidewalk Repair during their Oct. 3, 2011 Regular Town Council Meeting. The ordinance was passed in order to make necessary repairs to several sidewalks throughout the town that are in fairly bad shape. The work will be done by Steve Williams Concrete and Finishing at a cost of $15,365. The Oct. 3, 2011 Town of Catawba ReguCONTINUED ON PAGE 4 BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY CLAREMONT – Nine students from Bandys and Bunker Hill High School were sworn in as the newest members of the Claremont Youth Council during the Oct. 3, 2011 City of Claremont City Council Regular Meeting. The nine students sworn in included: Clara Ervin, Matthew Benfield, Autumn Edwards, Katelynn Patterson, Caroline Franklin, Stacey Ledbetter, Abbie Setzer, Allie Setzer and Nathan Sherrill. The Oct. 3, 2011 City of Claremont Regular City Council Meeting was held at Claremont CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 Conover re-adopts official zoning map to include several annexations and zoning changes. BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY CONOVER – During the Oct. 3, 2011 City of Conover Regular City Council Meeting, the city council approved a measure to re-adopt the official city zoning map for Conover and the surrounding extraterritorial area. The readoption of the zoning map was due to the fact that the city has added several annexations and made several zoning changes which rendered the former zoning map difficult to use. The Oct. 3, 2011 City of Conover City Council Regular Meeting was held at Conover City CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CLAREMONT INFORMATION Claremont Police Department – 3301 East Main Street – Phone: 459-9295 – Fax: 459-7865 www.claremontpolice.com Chief of Police – Gerald R. Tolbert, Captain – Gary Bost; Training Specialists – David Pruitt, Community Relations – Terri Pope, Administrative Assistant – Pamela Shook, Reccords – Sandra Miller Claremont Fire Department – 2850 Firehouse Lane – Phone: 459-9296 – Fax: 459-0596 www.claremontfd.net Fire Chief – Gary W. Sigmon, Assistant Fire Chief – Brian K. Helms, Captains – Jason A. Lowrance & Wendy L. Helms, Lieutenants – Bruce Hartsoe & Eddie Chapman Oxford “Catfish” Fire Department – 5688 Oxford School Road – Phone: 459-9678 – Fax: 459-9676 www.oxfordcatfishfd.com Fire Chief – Wayne Smith, Assistant Fire Chief – Donnie Deal Claremont Public Works Department – 2748 South Oxford Street – Phone: 459-7800 www.cityofclaremont.org Director – Thomas Winkler Claremont Rescue Squad Base 1 – 2748 South Oxford Street – Phone: 459-7968 – Fax: 459-7961 www.claremontrescue.org Chief – Jason Crooks, Assistant Chief – Eric Jones, Captain – Nick Farthing, Lieutenants – Steve Norris, Ryan Smith & J.P. Peeler, Secretary/Treasurer – Gary Reitzel Base 2 – 5710 Highway 16 North – Phone: 2566423 – Fax: 256-6431 www.claremontrescue.org Claremont Branch Library – 3288 East Main Street – Phone: 459-9311 www.catawbacountync.gov Branch Manager – Richard Haunton Hours: Tue.-Fri., 12 to 6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Claremont Friends of the Library Officers Chairperson – Glenn A. Morrison, Secretary – Mary Moser, Historian – Shirley Harwell Newton Convenience Center – 2436 Bethany Church Road – Phone: 465-4635 Hours: Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Claremont Elementary School – 3384 East Main Street – Phone: 459-7921 – Fax: 459-1734 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Chris Gibbs, Assistant Principal – Kathy Keane Oxford Elementary School – 5915 Oxford School Road – Phone: 459-7220 – Fax: 459-1122 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Kelly Nicholson, Assistant Principal – Cynthia O’Neal Mill Creek Middle School – 1041 Shiloh Road – Phone: 241-2711 – Fax: 241-2743 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Robert Rucker, Assistant Principal – Mitzi Story River Bend Middle School – 4670 Oxford School Road – Phone: 241-2754 – Fax: 241-2820 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Donna Heavner, Assistant Principal – Stephen Hensley Bunker Hill High School – 4675 Oxford School Road – Phone: 241-3355 – Fax: 241-9401 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Jeff Taylor, Assistant Principals – Alisa Ferguson & Lee Miller Claremont City Park – East Main Street (Next to Claremont Elementary School) Winter Hours – 10/1-4/1, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Summer Hours – 4/1-10/1, 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Size: 14 acres with 7 additional undeveloped acres. Features new playground equipment, lighted tennis courts, picnic shelters, amphitheater with stage, and a quarter mile-paved walking trail. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 2 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net All the things I am thankful for FROM THE PUBLISHER BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY very November I take the time to write a column expressing what I am most thankful for, and this year is no different. With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, now is a great time to reflect on what we are thankful for in our lives. It’s not hard to think of everything I am thankful for, and hopefully I can fit it all into this column. The first item on my list of things I am most thankful for would be my family, which includes my lovely wife and precious little daughter. I know every day is going to be a great day, when I see my wife and daughter each and every morning. My wife is my best friend and the love of my life, and she always inspires me to be a better person. My daughter fills my heart with love and pride, and makes me feel like the luckiest person on the earth. My E family is the most important thing in the world to me, and I truly am thankful for every smile, hug, kiss and laugh they share with me. I am also eternally thankful for my caring and loving parents, and the unconditional love they shower on me, my wife and my daughter. Without my parents love and support throughout my life, I would not be the man I am today. I am also very thankful for my father and mother in-law, who have welcomed me into their family with open arms. Nobody could ask for better in-laws, I am as close with them as I am my own parents. As far as the rest of my family goes, I am thankful for my grandfather for being such a great role model, and introducing me to this line of work when I was a small child. I am thankful for my grandmothers being what every grandmother should be, perfect. I am also thankful for my nieces, nephew and god son who inspire me to be a better person each and every day. And I am also thankful for my sister, aunt, uncle, cousins, sister-in-law and brothers-in-law for making our family quite entertaining. In my professional life, I am very thankful for all of the dedicated readers of The Claremont Courier. Without all of you picking up a RAMSEY copy of the paper or reading on-line each and every month, I would not have the honor and privilege of bringing you good and positive news and information about Eastern Catawba County. I am also very thankful to every business and individual that has ever advertised with CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 ‘Catawba Communities’ brings local government to TV CATAWBA COUNTY CORNER BY DAVE HARDIN sentence in the Declaration of Independence says, in part, “Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent A of the Governed...” An important part of having the consent of the governed is letting people know what their government is doing. Those working in my field are in a time of huge transition in the way information is delivered and received by people of all ages. It’s become increasingly important for us to put If you’re tired of impersonal pharmacy service, long lines and never seeing the same pharmacist behind the counter, you should consider switching to your local Medicap Pharmacy® store. The Medicap Pharmacy® store focus is pharmacy, quality health care products, and services. Plus, they offer periodic health care screenings. They offer easy access to the pharmacist, prompt, friendly personalized service, and because most stores are locally owned, you’ll see the same familiar face behind the counter. When you’re ready to transfer your prescriptions, don’t worry, just stop in, they’ll make it easy! Now, that’s a healthy dose of reality. Visit our web site at www.medicap.com 3319 East Main Street, Claremont 459.2149 – Bob Busbee, R.Ph. THE CC LAREMONT OURIER www.theclaremontcourier.net Established January, 2007. Entire Content Of Paper Copyrighted By The Claremont Courier. GIVING A VOICE TO EASTERN CATAWBA COUNTY! No material may be reproduced without permission from the publisher of The Claremont Courier. The Claremont Courier welcomes all press releases and photographs for publication, but a SASE must be accompanied for guaranteed return of all original material. The Claremont Courier reserves the right to edit any and all material. Send any materials to: The Claremont Courier, 3283 White Oak Court, Claremont, NC 28610-8669, or by e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected]. information out in many different ways. While traditional methods such as this newspaper, radio and face to face meetings remain vital to reach some people, we now must put information on Facebook and Twitter to reach many others. In between the two, in terms of innovation, is televiHARDIN sion. A group of local governments and publicly funded agencies have just started a new 30 minute TV program. “Catawba Communities” is airing Tuesday and Thursday nights at 8 p.m. on Charter Communications Channel 3, the Government Channel. It also airs randomly at other hours around the clock. We worked on the November edition last CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 In Loving Memory Of JOHN A. BUSBEE April 6, 1918 – November 7, 2007 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 CLAREMONT INFORMATION Bunker Hill Covered Bridge – 2 miles east of Claremont on NC Hwy. 70 – Phone: 465-0383 www.catawbahistory.org Hours: Sun.-Sat., 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Designated as a National Civil Engineering Landmark in 2001, is the only remaining example in wood of the Improved Lattice Truss patented by General Herman Haupt. CATAWBA INFORMATION Monthly Community Calender First Monday – Catawba Town Council at Catawba Town Hall – 7 p.m. Third Monday – Downtown Catawba Advisory Committee at Catawba Town Hall – 5:30 p.m.; Bandys High School Athletic Boosters at Bandys High School – 7 p.m. Every Tuesday – Catawba Fire Department at Catawba Fire Department – 7 p.m. Third Tuesday – Bandys High School Band Boosters at Bandys High School – 6:30 p.m. First & Third Wednesday – Balls Creek Optimist Club at Club House – 7:30 p.m. Second Thursday – Small Town Main Street Committee at Catawba Town Hall – 6 p.m. Fourth Thursday – Catawba Planning Board at Catawba Town Hall – 7 p.m. Catawba Town Hall – 108 North Main Street; Phone: 241-2215 – Fax: 241-9968 www.townofcatawbanc.org Catawba Town Council Mayor – Vance Readling – Mayor Pro-Tem – Jeff Hendren, Karen Abernathy Ester, Jeff Isenhour & Robin K. Robinson Catawba Planning Board Chair – Trent Cloninger, Linda Charles, Kathy Ervin, Kay Gantt, John Gilbert, Clyde Robinson, Isaiah Springs & Rick Young Downtown Catawba Advisory Committee Co-Chairmen, Karen Abernathy Ester & Lynn Poole, Dr. Donald Gray, Tom Johnston & Todd Reed Catawba Town Staff Town Manager – Brian Barnett, Town Clerk – Kathy Johnson, Town Attorney – Crystal Davis, Town Planner – John Kinley, Public Works Director – Cary Broadwell, Public Works Assistant – Claude Gwynn Catawba Police Department – 107 South Main Street – Phone: 241-4888 Police Chief – Mike Nash Catawba Fire Department – 108 North Main Street – Phone: 241-4955 – Fax: 241-3966 www.catawbafire.org Fire Chief – Donald Robinson – Assistant Fire Chiefs – Trent Cloninger & Kelly Pope Bandys Crossroads Fire Department – 1611 Buffalo Shoals Road – Base 1: Phone: 241-2111 – Base 2: Phone: 428-3897 – Fax: 241-3966 CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 4 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Town of Catawba moves forward with sidewalk repairs CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 lar Town Council Meeting was held at Catawba Town Hall in downtown Catawba at 7 p.m. The meeting was officially Called to Order by Town of Catawba Mayor ProTem, Jeff Hendren, which was followed by council member, Jeff Isenhour delivering the Invocation. Hendren then led everyone through the Pledge of Allegiance before the council approved the Regular Council Minutes from the Sept. 12, 2011 regular council meeting, and the Oct. 3, 2011 Agenda. The council then opened the floor for the first Public Comment Period, and after the floor was closed for public comments, Brian Barnett then delivered the Town Manager’s Report. Barnett started things off by saying the town financial report was what he expected and more information would be given at the November meeting. Barnett continued by saying that two trees located at 3rd Street NE were removed by an outside company. Barnett then stated that he has looked at the rain water drainage issue on East Central Avenue, and an engineer has been called in to look at the problem and offer solutions. Barnett continued his report by saying that a surveyor is needed to come in regards to a street paving project on 4th Street NW. Barnett said more information about the street paving project would be given at the November meeting. Barnett then said that the town is looking at adding a flag pole at Town Hall for a cost of $180. Barnett suggested that citizens may be interested in purchasing the pole for the city to be placed in memory or honor of a loved one. Council member, Karen Ester stated that she would be happy to purchase the pole in memory of her father, and then talk of a second flag pole to be placed at another location was then brought up. Barnett finished his report by saying that plans were underway for the seventh annual Veteran’s Day Parade and Festival on Main Street in downtown Catawba. The parade and festival will be held on Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the parade will start at 2 p.m. The festival will feature a petting zoo, inflatables, live gospel music, arts and crafts vendors, area business information booths, OLD COMPANY STORE DELI • GIFTS • COLLECTIBLES 101 North Main Street • Downtown Catawba (On The Corner Of East Central Avenue & North Main Street) DAILY BREAKFAST AND LUNCH SPECIALS! Try One Of Our Speciality Sandwiches, Soups Or Salads. Our Sandwiches Are Made With Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses! NOW SERVING WE ALSO SELL: • Fenton Glassware • Wooden Toys • Candy • Wild Republic Birds • Handmade Crafts & Dolls • Local Historic Books • B.R. Hilton Pottery • Molehollow Candles • Leanin’ Tree Greeting Cards • Old Company Store Items 2012 Catawba Community Calendars Are Now On Sale! OPEN Monday – Thursday 6 AM to 4 PM Friday – Saturday 6 AM – 6 PM 241.4200 UPCOMING LIVE MUSIC NOV. 5 – O’CAIN • NOV. 12 – WALKING BY FAITH NOV. 19 – SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY Music Will Run From 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, And Is Free To The Public! food sales and more. All residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate their businesses, parade and festival entries in honor of the patriotic festivities. For more information or to download a vendor application form visit www.townofcatawbanc. org or call Catawba Town Hall at 241-2215. Department Reports followed, and the Public Works Department stated that the department would be busy with several mowing and brush removal projects. The department would also start its leaf collection in mid-October and would continue with this until mid-January. The Fire Department report included information on the department conducting several fire prevention classes at Catawba Elementary School, and that everybody should check their fireplaces and chimneys before lighting a fire in them. The only item under Old Business was the issue of a run down home at 5400 Hudson Chapel Road, and what to do to have it torn down. After some discussion, the council approved a measure to pay for asbestos testing at the home before anything else was decided. The council then entered into the New Business portion of the meeting, and quickly approved Ordinance 2011-9 – Budget Amendment – Transferring Catawba Fire Capital Reserve Funds to Catawba County. The council then approved Ordinance 2011-10 – Budget Amendment – East Central and South Main Street Sidewalk Repairs. The floor was then opened up for the second Public Comment Period, and after nobody approached the podium, the Oct. 3, 2011 Town of Catawba Regular Town Council Meeting was Adjourned. All Town of Catawba Town Council meetings are held on the first Monday of every month, at 7 p.m., at Catawba Town Hall at 108 North Main Street in downtown Catawba, unless it falls on a major holiday at 7 p.m. All town council meetings are open to the public, who are encouraged to attend these meetings. For more information or questions, call Catawba Town Hall at 2412215 or visit www.townofcatawbanc.org. TREASURES OF CATAWBA Antiques & Collectibles 828.320.5965 [email protected] Downtown Catawba Exit 138 Off Of I-40 OPEN WED-SAT OR BY APPOINTMENT WE WILL BE OFFERING WEEKLY SPECIALS THROUGH CHRISTMAS! NEW MERCHANDISE ARRIVING WEEKLY! follow us online The Claremont Courier 5 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net ‘Catawba Communities’ brings local government to TV CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 week and I think it’s going to be the best one yet. We’ll have a segment on the work done by the County’s Veterans Service Officer, Cindy Travis, who assists veterans and their dependents in filing claims with the Veterans Administration for benefits and service. Her office is located in the Government Center in Newton. City of Newton PIO, Gary Herman and I will have a segment about the Community Alert System, which anyone may sign up for, free of charge. The system is used so that the public may be contacted by phone, text, and e-mail in case of a large-scale emergency. The system may also be used to let you know of important and urgent situations such as utility service interruptions, public water contamination, bridge collapse, etc. There will be a feature on a week in November when several agencies partner to raise awareness of the problems faced by those who are living in poverty or are homeless. We’re also planning short segments on winter fire safety tips and on the leaf pickup schedule around the county. Mandy Pitts, Communications Director for the City of Hickory and Bebe Leitch, CEO of the Hickory Metro Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, will have details on fun activities planned for the holidays across the county. In December, we’re planning to have details on the new simulated hospital at CVCC, the newly refurbished Conover Depot and more. I hope you make it a point to be informed about what local governments are doing. And I hope you’ll check out “Catawba Communities” at 8 p.m., on Tuesday and Thursday nights, and at random other times around the clock, and make it “appointment viewing” in the months to come. Dave Hardin is the Public Information Officer for Catawba County. For more information, visit www.catawbacountync.gov. VOTE FOR KAREN ABERNATHY ESTER TO SERVE A SECOND TERM ON THE CATAWBA TOWN COUNCIL ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 • CATAWBA TOWN COUNCIL MEMBER SINCE 2007 • CATAWBA TOWN COUNCIL MAYOR PRO-TEM 2007-2009 • CO-CHAIR OF THE CATAWBA DOWNTOWN ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR SIX YEARS • CATAWBA SMALL TOWN MAIN STREET COMMITTEE MEMBER • MEMBER OF TOWN OF CATAWBA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION • MEMBER OF CATAWBA CHAPTER NO. 124, OES • ATTENDED THE NC SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENTS “ESSENTIALS OF MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT” FOR NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS IN 2008 • SELF-EMPLOYED – ABERNATHY INCOME TAX SINCE 1998 • RAISED IN CATAWBA, AND HAS BEEN A CITIZEN SINCE 2000 THIS AD PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO RE-ELECT KAREN ABERNATHY ESTER Claremont Optimist Club to host various fundraisers CLAREMONT – The Claremont Optimist Club will host a raffle on Nov. 6 at 5 p.m. Prizes include a Hooters VIP wing party, a $150 photo session, and Hooters and Wal-Mart gift cards. Tickets cost $1. On Nov. 12, the club will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser at Applebee’s in Hickory from 7 to 10 a.m. The menu includes pancakes, sausage and a drink for $7 per plate. For more information, call 461-0273. THE CC 3283 WHITE OAK COURT CLAREMONT, NC 28610-8669 828.320.8450 E-MAIL [email protected] [email protected] VISIT US ON-LINE AT www.theclaremontcourier.net PUBLISHER – SCOTT W. RAMSEY ADVERTISING SALES SCOTT W. RAMSEY; ANDREA BUSBEE-RAMSEY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA BUSBEE-RAMSEY; JAMES LOFTIN; ALLISON TOMPKINS; RUSSELL D. MURR; DAVE HARDIN; REV. DENNIS J. RICHARDS; JANE A. BARBER, DVM, MS, DACT; DR. MARK HAWKINS; CRYSTAL MOSTELLER, PA-C; R. KELLEY DOWNEY; RANDY INMAN CATAWBA INFORMATION www.catawbacountync.gov Catawba Rescue Squad – 300 Second Street SE – Phone: 241-3111 – Fax: 241-3377 www.catawbarescue.com Chief – Donald B. Houston David A. Hunsucker Memorial Park – 101 Third Street NW – Phone: 241-2215 – Fax: 241-9968 Oxford Convenience Center – 4637 Lookout Dam Road – Phone: 241-3774 Hours: Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Town of Catawba Historical Association President – John Gilbert, Vice-President – Marilyn Gabriel, Secretary – Arlene Sigmon, Historian – Albert Keiser, Jr., Trustees – Helen Campbell, Linda Charles, Barbara Lynch, Bill Rhyne, & Jennifer Whisnant Catawba Rosenwald Education Center – 403 Rosenwald School Street – Phone: 241-2734 – Fax: 241-4999 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Tim Conaway, Assistant Principal – Jerry Gouge Catawba Elementary School – 5415 Hudson Chapel Road – Phone: 241-3131 – Fax: 241-2332 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Vermel D. Moore, Assistant Principal – Kisha Clemons Bandys High School – 5040 East Bandys Road – Phone: 241-3171 – Fax: 241-9402 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Todd Black – Assistant Principals – Tammy Sharpe & Stephen Westmoreland Murray’s Mill Historic Site – 1489 Murray’s Mill Road – Phone: 241-4299, 465-0383 www.catawbahistory.org Hours: Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Group tours of 10 or more by appointment. Features original one-ton French buhr millstones, and includes Murray’s Mill, Murray & Minges General Store, Wheathouse Exhibit Gallery & John Murray House. Dr. Q.M. Little House 1873 Museum – 101 West First Street SW – Phone: 241-4077, 241-2424 Tours by appointment. Features six-room brick home with artifacts and displays that depict the history of Catawba and the surrounding area. The National Little Library is also available for research. SHERRILLS FORD/TERRELL INFORMATION LAREMONT OURIER GIVING A VOICE TO EASTERN CATAWBA COUNTY! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 VOTE FOR TOM JOHNSTON TO SERVE ON THE CATAWBA TOWN COUNCIL THIS AD PAID FOR BY TOM JOHNSTON Monthly Community Calender Third Monday – Lake Norman Garden Club – at various locations – 12 p.m. Second Tuesday – Catawba County Chamber of Commerce Southeast Catawba County Area Council at Sherrills Ford/Terrell Fire & Rescue Community Building – 4 p.m. Third Tuesday – Sherrills Ford Friends of The Library at Sherrills Ford Branch Library – 7 p.m. Every Wednesday – Sherrills Ford/Terrell Rotary Club at Sherrills Ford/Terrell Fire & Rescue Community Building – 7:30 a.m.; Preschool/ Toddler Story Time at the Sherrills Ford Branch Library – 10 a.m. First Wednesday – Sherrills Ford Optimist Club at Sherrills Ford Optimist Park – 7 p.m. Every Thursday – Preschool/Toddler Music Time at the Sherrills Ford Branch Library – 10 a.m. Second & Fourth Thursday – Sherrills Ford Lions Club at the Sherrills Ford Lions Den – 6:30 p.m. Sherrills Ford /Terrell Fire & Rescue Headquarters – 4011 Slanting Bridge Road – Phone: 478-2131 – Fax: 478-3296 www.sftfr.net Chief – Keith Bost Base 1 – 8073 Sherrills Ford Road – Phone: 4789105, Base 2 – 4385 Mt. Pleasant Road – Phone: CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 SHERRILLS FORD/TERRELL INFORMATION 704-483-9531, Base 3 – 4582 Burris Road, Denver – Phone: 478-3296 Sherrills Ford Branch Library – 8456 Sherrills Ford Road – Phone: 478-2729 – Fax: 478-5837 www.catawbacountync.gov Branch Manager: Richard Griffin, Jr. Hours: Tue., 12 to 8 p.m.; Wed. - Fri., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sherrills Ford Convenience Center – 8876 Sherrills Ford Road – Phone: 478-2248 Hours: Wed.-Sun.; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sherrills Ford Elementary School – 8103 Sherrills Ford Road – Phone: 478-2662 – Fax: 478-5927 www.catawbaschools.net Principal – Shelly Black, Assistant – Principal – Heather Houser CONOVER INFORMATION Monthly Community Calendar First Monday – Conover City Council at Conover City Hall – 7 p.m. Second Monday – Newton-Conover School Board at 1924 Courthouse – 7 p.m. First & Third Monday – Conover Lions Club at CVMC Jade Room – 6:45 p.m.; Newton-Conover Athletic Boosters at Newton-Conover High School AV Room – 6:30 p.m. Every Tuesday – Newton-Conover Roatry Club at Catawba Country Club – 12 p.m. Third Tuesday – Conover Planning Board at Conover City Hall – 7 p.m. Every Saturday – Conover Farmers Market at 109 1st Street East – 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., April-Oct. Conover City Hall – 101 First Street East – Phone: 464-1191 – Fax: 465-5177 www.ci.conover.nc.us Conover City Council Mayor – Lee E. Moritz, Jr., Mayor Pro-Tem – Kyle J. Hayman, Don A. Beal, Penny M. Corpening, Joie Fulbright & Janice B. Herman Conover Planning Board Chairman – Joe Kaylor, Vice-Chairman – James Ten Kate, David C. Brown, Robert Jarrett, Janette L. Sims, Mike Long, Helen Y. Whitfield, James Ten Kate, Steven P. Kiger, Jim Rice & Ryan Spleet, ETJ Member – Ken R. Hilderbran Conover Zoning Board of Adjustments City Members – Chairman – Donald Bumgarner, Donald Hedrick & Richard Grant, ETJ Members – Harvey Lee Sipe & Ray Hilderbran Conover City Staff Town Manager – Donald Duncan, Jr., City Clerk – Clara C. Reed, City Finance Director – Vickie K. Schlichting, City Attorney – Martin Pannell, City Planner – Lance Hight, Public Works Director – Jimmy Clark Conover Police Department – 115 Second Avenue NE – Phone: 464-4698 – Fax: 464-3075 www.ci.conover.nc.us Chief of Police – Steve Brewer Conover Fire Department – Station One, 122 CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 6 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net City of Conover re-adopts city zoning map CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Hall in downtown Conover at 7 p.m. The meeting was officially Called to Order by City of Conover Mayor, Lee E. Moritz, Jr., which was followed by Rev. Mark Schudde from Concordia Lutheran Church who delivered the Invocation. Moritz then lead everyone in attendance through the Pledge of Allegiance, before the council Approved the Minutes from the Aug. 2, 2011 Special Meeting and the Sept. 6, 2011 Regular Meeting. Moving forward, the council then presented the Mayor’s Citizenship Award to Claude William “Billy” Hoke. The council then opened the floor for a Public Hearing to consider the Re-Adoption of the Official Zoning Map. Once the public hearing was closed, the council adopted Ordinance 26-11 – Re-Adopting the Official Zoning Map, Conover, North Carolina Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 160A-77 and Conover City Code Appendix A, Section 10.5. The readoption of the zoning map was due to the fact that the city has added several annexations and made several zoning changes which rendered the former zoning map difficult to use. Once Upon A Stitch Embroidery & Screen Printing CHRISTMAS WILL BE HERE SOON Personalize Your Stockings & Christmas Gifts! Specializing In Vinyl Wall Decals Vinyl Car Decals Embroidery Screen Printing Sports Uniforms Work Uniform Promotional Items And So Much More! For More Information Or Questions, Call Jessica Caulder At 828.312.7916 Or E-Mail To [email protected] The council then adopted Resolution 2511 – Authorizing the Police Chief to Provide Assistance to Other Law Enforcement Agencies, which would allow members of the Conover Police Department to work with other law enforcement agencies if needed. The council then adopted the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program – Local Governmental Resolution – Form GHSP-01, Project #PT-1203-04-12. The council then proclaimed the week of October 9-15, 2011 as Fire Prevention Week, and October 2011 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The council then approved the Tax Releases and Refunds, which was followed by the Committee Reports. The council then heard the City Manager’s Report, and Donald E. Duncan, Jr. stated that the city issued 17 building permits during the month of September, totaling $115,865 and included four residential, eight commercial, two industrial and three institutional. Duncan closed out his report after giving two presentations regarding the Western Piedmont Regional Transit Authority and Sidetrax Cafe which will be located at Conover Station in downtown Conover. Once Duncan finished delivering the City Manager’s Report, Comments from Visitors and Guests was heard by the council. Once the floor was closed to public comments, the council then met in a Closed Session Meeting Regarding North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11: Personnel Matter. After the closed session meeting was finished, the Oct. 3, 2011 City of Conover Regular City Council meeting was Adjourned by City of Conover Mayor, Lee E. Moritz, Jr. All City of Conover City Council meetings are held on the first Monday of the month, unless it falls on a major holiday at 7 p.m., at Conover City Hall at 101 1st Street East in downtown Conover. All regular city council meetings are open to the public, who are encouraged to attend these meetings. For more information or questions about the City of Conover, call Conover City Hall at 464-1191 or visit the official city Web site at www.conovernc.gov. Conover offering leaf collection services CONOVER – The City of Conover is currently offering leaf collection services to all of its citizens until Jan. 1, 2012. All leaves must be placed curbside for pickup, and the city also offers a vacuum service, but small amounts of leaves may be bagged for collection, removing all limbs and twigs. Residents are encouraged to rake all leaves to the curbside for vacuum service. Only clear plastic bags will be accepted, and bags are available at City Hall. Leaf piles and other debris should not be placed in the curb, ditch line or street. Leaf piles put out after Jan. 1 must be bagged for collection. For more information, call the Conover Public Works Department at 464-4808. Conover Farmers Market to host event on Nov. 19 CONOVER – The Conover Farmers Market at 109 First Street East in Conover will host Holiday Fest on Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local farmers are harvesting fresh produce, and offering naturally raised meats for your Thanksgiving table. Quality crafters will also offer unique choices for Christmas gifts. In addition to food and produce, the event will also offer Christmas stockings, dolls and home decor, wooden toys, and handmade writing implements, organic soaps and lotions, decorated wreaths, Christmas trees, a historic operational chuck wagon with live open fire cooking displays, and live music. For more information or questions, call 234-7075, or visit www.conoverfarmersmarket.org. Town of Catawba offering leaf collection services CATAWBA – The Town of Catawba Public Works Department is currently offering leaf collection services to all of its citizens through mid-January. All leaves must be placed curbside for pickup, and the department asks that all limbs and twigs be removed from the leaf piles. Citizens can also bag their leaves, but are asked to use only clear plastic bags. Leaf piles and other debris should not be placed in the curb, ditch line or street. For more information or questions about the leaf removal service, call Catawba Town Hall at 2412215, or visit www.townofcatawbanc.org. The Claremont Courier 7 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Claremont swears in Claremont Youth Council members CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 City Hall in downtown Claremont at 7 p.m. The meeting was officially Called to Order by City of Claremont Mayor, David Morrow, which was followed by the Approval of the Agenda. Once the agenda was approved, Morrow delivered the Invocation, and this was followed by council member, Nicky Setzer leading everyone through the Pledge of Allegiance. Next on the agenda was the Mayor’s Report, and that was followed by the Approval the Minutes from the Regular Meeting on Sept. 6, 2011, and the Closed Session Meeting on Sept. 6, 2011. Moving forward, the council then opened the floor for the Citizen’s Concerns and Comments portion of the meeting. Once the floor was closed to the public, the council then held the swearing in ceremony for the 20112012 Claremont Youth Council members. Two Public Hearings were then held, and the first one was regarding an Economic Development Agreement between the City of Claremont and Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply. The second public hearing was held to discuss a rezoning issue for Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply. Once the public hearings were closed, the meeting entered into Old Business, and the council was informed that a new water fountain has been installed at Claremont City Park in downtown Claremont. The only other item up for discussion under Old Business was that the NCDOT has approved the use of truck route signs to be placed around Claremont, and that traffic patterns will be monitored at the intersection of Centennial Boulevard and Lookout Street The meeting then entered into New Business, and the council talked about ways the city could honor past council member, James “PJ” Stanley. Many ideas were brought up on how to honor Stanley, and included offering a scholarship to students studying for a career in EMT or law enforcement; a marathon or bicycle race; and it was mentioned that Rising Hope Farms in Claremont is considering naming a new horse arena after Stanley. The council then approved Resolution 0611 – Fire Prevention Week 2011; Resolution 07-11 – Renaming the Claremont Recreation Committee to the Claremont Parks and Recreation Committee; Resolution 0811 – North Carolina League of Municipalities Voting Members 2011 (Shawn Brown, and Tim Lowrance as the alternate); and Resolution 09-11 – Selling of Surplus Property. CROSSWORD ANSWER KEY New Business was closed out after the council approved an Economic Development Agreement with Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply; Ordinance 04-11 – Rezoning 11-2 Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply; and changing the Nov. 7, 2011 City of Claremont City Council Regular Meeting location to the Training Room at the Tolbert Building of Justice in downtown Claremont. Department and Committee Reports was next, and Claremont Fire Chief, Gary Sigmon said that the department responded to 28 calls in September, completed two business inspections, one safety inspection, performed two fire prevention programs, installed five smoke detectors, replaced two smoke detector batteries, and performed one child safety seat inspection during August. Police Chief, Gerald Tolbert then gave the Claremont Police Department report, and he stated that the department answered 749 calls, performed 1,157 property checks, provided 43 business escorts, performed two funeral escorts, assisted 26 motorists, and answered 24 alarms. Tom Winkler from the Claremont Public Works Department stated that the entire staff has been trained and certified in sign installation and placement. Henry Helton finished off this portion of the meeting with the Parks and Recreation and Veterans Memorial Committee. Helton said the committee is looking at adding a disc golf course at Claremont City Park, the fall city wide yard sale and hazardous waste collection day will be held on Nov. 5, and the committee will make necessary repairs to the tennis courts at Claremont City Park. Claremont City Manager, Doug Barrack then delivered his City Manager’s Report. Barrick stated that Christmas decorations will be put up around the city in November, and a holiday yard contest will be held on Dec. 19. Barrick finished his report by saying that several sidewalks will undergo some repairs over the next few months, and that the city would hold its second annual business networking breakfast in early November. Once Barrick finished his report, the council then entered into a Closed Session Meeting. Once finished, the Oct. 6, 2011 City of Claremont Regular City Council Meeting was Adjourned. All City of Claremont City Council meetings are held the first Monday of every month, unless it falls on a major holiday at 7 p.m., at Claremont City Hall at 3288 East Main Street in downtown Claremont. All city council meetings are open to the public. For more information or questions, call Claremont City Hall at 459-7009, or visit www.cityofclaremont.org. EXIT 148 3140 NORTH OXFORD STREET STATESVILLE CLAREMONT 704.397.9287 459.9287 OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK 11AM–10PM 11AM–10PM DINE IN • CARRY OUT DINE IN • CARRY OUT CATERING • WE DELIVER TO YOUR BUSINESS BANQUET ROOMS AVAILABLE WEEKLY SPECIALS MONDAY – 3-10 PM – BBQ, BAKED BEANS & SLAW – $5.29 TUESDAY – 3-10 PM – GRILLED TIPS – $5.99 THURSDAY – 11 AM-10 PM – .35¢ WINGS LET US CATER YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY THIS YEAR! WE ARE CURRENTLY BOOKING HOLIDAY PARTIES! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 CONOVER INFORMATION Conover Boulevard East – Station Two, 1011 Hwy. 70 West – Phone: 464-1295 – Fax: 464-1253 www.ci.conover.nc.us Fire Chief – J. Mark Hinson Newton-Conover Rescue Squad – Base 1, 337 East A Street, Newton – Phone: 465-2958 – Base 2, 2705 North College Avenue, Newton – Phone: 466-0176 www.newtonconoverrescue.org Conover Branch Library – 101 First Street East – Phone: 466-5108 – Fax: 466-5109 www.catawbacountync.gov Hours: Tue., 12 to 8 p.m.; Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Conover School – 108 Seventh Street Place SW – Phone: 464-9532 – Fax: 465-6470 www.nccs.k12.nc.us Principal – Betsy Rosenbalm, Assistant Principal – Valerie Leath Lyle Creek Elementary School – 1845 Edgewater Drive – Phone: 464-0299 – Fax: 464-3397 www.catawba.k12.nc.us Principal – Sharon Harwood, Assistant Principal – Kim Yancey Shuford Elementary School – 810 Hunsucker Drive – Phone: 464-1973 – Fax: 464-1405 www.nccs.k12.nc.us Principal – Shane Whitener St. Stephens Elementary School – 684 30th Street NE – Phone: 256-2570 – Fax: 256-5641 www.catawba.k12.nc.us Principal – Donna Sigmon, Assistant Principal – Kim Jordan Riverbend Park – 6700 NC Hwy. 16 North – Phone: 256-9157 www.catawbacountync.gov Open Fri.-Mon., Nov.-Feb, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; March & Oct., 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; April-Sept., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Conover City Parks Downtown Park – 112 2nd Avenue NE Gateway Park – 1st Street West Hines Park – 1130 4th Street SW Hunsucker Park – 8th Street NE and 1st Avenue Place NE Majestic Park – 624 2nd Street Drive SW Rowe Park – 217 9th Street SW Travis Park – 612 6th Street Court NW Washington/Southwest Park – 555 4th Street Place SW Catawba County Firefighters Museum – 3957 Herman Sipe Road – Phone: 466-0911 www.catawbacountync.gov Open Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sun., 1 to 4 p.m. Adrian L. Shuford, Jr. YMCA – 1104 Conover Boulevard East – Phone: 464-6130 – Fax: 4641663 www.ymcacv.org THE CLAREMONT COURIER HALL OF FAME Bob & Cheryl Ramsey; Bob & Rita Busbee; Willard & Nellie Yount; Helen Ramsey; Mary Frances Busbee; Mitchell Setzer; Smith Setzer & Sons, Inc.; Mike Pannell; In Honor of Russell Boggs; Town of Catawba Historical Association, Inc. Board Members; In Honor of Nell Hewitt; Rev. Dennis & Jean Richards; Jerald & Carolyn Leonhardt; Mary Boggs; Peggy Miller; In Memory of PJ Stanley, Loretta Hiatt; & Thelma Wysong To make a donation and have your name placed in the Hall of Fame, send your donation to The Claremont Courier, c/o Hall of Fame, 3283 White Oak Court, Claremont, NC 28610-8669. The Claremont Courier 9 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Catawba and Claremont planning to host annual parades Catawba resident wins CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Oxford Street and Centennial Boulevard, Mrs. NC America pageant Catawba are encouraged to decorate their businesses, parade and festival entries in honor of the patriotic festivities. The Town of Catawba is also asking all area veteran’s to contact Catawba Town Hall in order to reserve a spot on the veteran’s float which will highlight the parade. Applications are still being accepted from area vendors who would like to participate in the festival, as well as groups, businesses, churches or anyone else who would like to participate in the parade. Anyone who would like to participate in the parade, or any food or craft vendors that would like to participate in the festival, are asked to download an application form at www.townofcatawbanc.org. For more information or questions regarding the seventh annual Town of Catawba Veteran’s Day Parade and Festival, are asked to call Catawba Town Hall at 241-2215. The City of Claremont has announced it will host its 27th annual Christmas Parade along Main Street in downtown Claremont on Dec. 3, starting at 3 p.m. Applications to participate in the annual event are currently available at Claremont City Hall and Claremont Automotive and Muffler Repair in downtown Claremont. There is no charge to participate in the parade, but an application must be filled out. The Grand Marshal for the Claremont Christmas Parade will be NASCAR legend, Ned Jarrett. Main Street in downtown Claremont will be closed at 2:45 p.m., and all entries for the parade are asked to go to North All the things I am thankful for this year CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 The Claremont Courier. Without your continued support of this paper, I would not be able to bring this product to the thousands of monthly readers. In addition, without The Claremont Courier advertisers I would not be able to give my family the financial support they need, and for that I am extremely thankful. One last thing I am very thankful for when it comes to The Claremont Courier, is every person, business, church, organization, civic group and school who submits news and information to run in the paper. Area citizens are the main reason I have pages and pages of useful information to bring to the readers, and without you there would be a lot less paper to read. The last thing I am truly thankful for is God. God has given me and my family so much to be thankful for, and without God in my life, it is hard to say where I might be right now in my personal and professional life. I would like to wish everyone out there, a very happy and safe holiday season this year. where a committee member will be available to direct you to your parade position. The parade will start from the corner of North Oxford and Main Street and run down Main Street through downtown Claremont to Claremont City Park. Santa Claus’ arrival will signal the end of the parade, and all children are invited to attend a picture session with Santa at the Claremont Branch Library. The Friends of the Claremont Library will also give every child a Claremont history coloring book as they leave. For more information, questions or to request a parade application, call Henry Helton at 459-9016 or e-mail to [email protected], or call Danny Hedrick at Claremont Automotive and Muffler Repair at 459-2255. MOORESVILLE – Catawba resident, Jessica Harvey, and wife of MLB player, Kris Harvey won the title of Mrs. North Carolina America 2012 on Oct. 22 at the Charles Mack Citizen Center in Mooresville. Harvey will now represent the state in the Mrs. America pageant in the spring of 2012. Harvey was awarded the title after beating out 11 other competitors, and she also took first place in the swimsuit competition. Another local resident, Kim Bealer of Terrell, was named the fourth runner-up at the pageant, and she also won the Most Photogenic competition. Harvey is a business development and marketing manager for a technology firm in Mooresville, as well as a professional model. In additional to the title, Harvey also received a prize package worth more than $77,000 including gifts, services, prizes, and a trip to the Mrs. America pageant. For more information or quesHARVEY tions about the Mrs. North Carolina America Pageant or to schedule an appearance by Jessica Harvey, call 478-2804, e-mail to [email protected], or visit www.mrsnorthcarolinaamerica.com DO YOU HAVE A LANDSCAPING PROJECT? Let Our In-House Designer, Beverly Carlton-Rice Assist You! Setzer’s Landscape Nursery All Plants Are Can Help You With The Grown Locally Planning, Design And Instillation Of Your Landscaping Project! We can also custom plant in your container, or select from our stock of containers! Trees and Shrubs...Container And Field Grown Stock! FALL PANSIES & VIOLAS ARE READY AND ON SALE! Hours Of Operation Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm • Sat. 8am-1pm North Carolina GROWN 3110 N. Lookout Street, Claremont • 459.7098 MAX’S DIGGING SERVICE Based in Conover, we are a family owned and operated business with 42 years of experience. We specialize in grading, hauling, certified septic tank installations and repairs, back hoe services, and we can fill in unwanted swimming pools, etc. For More Information, Call Max Miller, Bryan Miller Or Tony Miller At 256-5349, 310-3716, 320-5631 10 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Group effort brings holiday production to Newton stage CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 an hour, and will be held at the NewtonConover Auditorium at 60 West 6th Street in Newton. Tickets for the Dec. 3 performances are currently on sale at the NewtonConover Auditorium box office for $5 and $8. The family themed production will feature around 60 dancers ranging in age from three years-old to adult from the beginner to advanced classes offered at the NewArt School of Ballet. The original production of “The Nutcracker Suite” will be choreographed and codirected by NewArt School of Ballet instructors Michael and Melissa French. In addition to the dancers from the NewArt School of Ballet, the production will also feature current Western Piedmont Symphony resident quartet, the Kontros Quartet, who will provide the music for the production. Rounding out the cast for the production will be two principal dancers from the Nashville Ballet. According to Michael French, the holiday production would not be a reality without a lot of help from other people and organiza- tions who wanted to see this production performed in Catawba County. “Reggie Helton and Mandy Pearce from the Newton-Conover Auditorium were very instrumental it helping us put everything together. We are also very thankful to the Kontros Quartet for putting together the score for this production, especially since most productions of ‘The Nutcracker’ feature a full orchestra. Murray Phillips also needs to be thanked for lending his expertise and helping us get everything together. We also need to thank the United Arts Council of Catawba Valley for helping secure two grants for this production.” “The dancers have put in numerous hours of rehearsal time leading up to the production dates, and the audience will see the party scene and snow scene from the first act, and about 75 percent of the second act,” according to French. “I believe that all fans of the arts will really enjoy the dance and musical aspects of this holiday production. The production will also feature two principal dancers from the Nashville Ballet who will per- form the lead roles at all the performances.” French went on to say that everyone involved with the production felt it was important to offer a free show to area school children. “We believe that it is very important for school-aged children to be exposed to the arts, and this was the perfect opportunity to let a number of children watch their first ballet production. A lot of children will see this production and might want to get involved in the arts. Most children don’t realize that there is a lot more to putting on a production then just performing on-stage. Once children become involved in the arts, a lot of them may be drawn to costume designing, designing sets, or lighting and sound engineering.” For more information, questions or to purchase tickets for “The Nutcracker Suite,” call the Newton-Conover Auditorium box office at 464-8100. You can also purchase tickets at the box office, which is located at 60 West 6th Street in Newton, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also obtain more information about the Newton-Conover Auditorium or the NewArt School of Ballet by visiting their Web site at http://newton-conoverauditorium.org. You can obtain more information on the Kontras Quartet, by visiting their Web site at www.kontrasquartet.com. PHOTO BY SCOTT W. RAMSEY Kaylie Younce from the NewArt School of Ballet rehearses a number from “The Nutcracker Suite.” The production will be held at the Newton-Conover Auditorium in Newton on Dec. 3 at 2 and 6 p.m. O’Cup Bean & Bakery 3279 EAST MAIN STREET, CLAREMONT Call 615.7377 Or Text Ahead Your Order To 302.2999 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY AT 7AM – CLOSED SATURDAY & SUNDAY We Will Be Open On November 5 For The City Wide Yard Sale And December 3 For The Claremont Christmas Parade STONE HEARTH BAKED PIZZA GREAT PIZZA, NO STRINGS ATTACHED! DINE IN/PICK UP/DELIVERY Come by and try our Soft Serve Ice Cream. We also offer a Salad and Fruit Bar, and are now serving Beer! 3252 West Main Street Downtown Claremont (828) 459-7799 Warm Up With One Of Our Homemade Soups In A Toasted Bread Bowl! We Also Offer A Full Lunch Menu! Now Booking Holiday Parties! Call Or Stop By For More Details! Gift Certificates Available! We Also Serve Coffee Drinks, Espresso Drinks, Ice Cream, Doughnuts, Baked Goods And More All Day Long! The Claremont Courier 11 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net New businesses open their doors to the public CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of new business openings and business ventures trying to jump start the local economy. One of the new businesses that recently opened its doors to the public is Miller Farms, which is owned and operated by Cyndi and Tony Miller. The farm is located at 1993 Adam Street in Conover, and this fully functioning 24-acre farm is now offering interested parties the opportunity to rent the property for a number of different events. The farm can accommodate parties of any size for reunions, festivals, wedding parties or receptions, birthday parties, corporate functions, church homecomings, graduation parties, prom parties, and school tours. In addition to hosting events, the farm is also being used for photo opportunities, such as prom pictures and wedding and engagement pictures. The farm also offers an onsite photographer, and they can also help plan any size party with advanced notice. The focal point of Miller Farms is the two story mortise-an-tenon “I” frame John Monroe Miller House, which was built in 1857. The grounds feature a variety of animals, including cows, goats, chickens, and horses. Other features include, a pond, barn, old farm equipment, meadows, pastures and wooded areas. According to owner, Cyndi Miller the farm offers its clients a casual, comfortable location with old Southern charm in a romantic country setting at reasonable prices. The farm is currently booking Christmas photo sessions through Dec. 10, and school tours for the spring of 2012. Miller Farms can host events Sunday through Saturday, and you are asked to call 256-7573 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. For more information by e-mail to gcmillerfarms@aol. com, or visit www.millerfarmsevents.com. New businesses in Claremont includes Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply, which is located at 4860 South Depot Street in downtown Claremont. The business is a full service hardware and farm supply store, and is owned and operated by Christy, Kemp, Parker and Tyler Sigmon. The facility features a 5,000 square-foot sales floor, and 62,000 square-feet of total space inside and out. Regardless if you are a homeowner or contractor, Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply carries a full line of products and merchandise to help you complete your project. Some of the merchandise you can find at the business includes, but it not limited to: seasonal giftware, toys, jewelry, painting and staining supplies, power tools and accessories, hand tools, heaters, tape, sealers, coatings, caulks, fasteners, screws, nails, anchors, door locks, signs, roofing supplies, thresholds, auto supplies, lubes, tarps, rope and twine, fencing, buckets, tanks, pet and farm supplies, plumbing supplies, lamps, cords, light bulbs, electrical supplies, wiring devices, PVC fittings, batteries, bathroom accessories, smoke and fire alarms, household cleaners, cements, brass fittings, water heater repairs, landscaping supplies, and lawn and garden supplies. The store also features a professional staff that can help answer any questions you may have, and they also offer custom farm services and a full time mechanic that specializes in small engine repair and Stihl product repairs. There is also a sitting area where area residents can come together and socialize. Claremont Hardware and Farm Supply is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., and they accept Master Card and Visa debit and credit cards. For more information, call 615-7444, or fax to 615-7447. Another new business that has opened its doors in Claremont is Smoky D’s, which is located at 3165 Highway 10 in Claremont. Smoky D’s is a full service restaurant, and is owned and operated by area residents and past owners of Drum’s Restaurant in Conover, Wendy and Douglas Travis. Smoky D’s offers its patrons a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner menu items, as well as a kid’s menu. Breakfast items include breakfast plates, omelets, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches and biscuits. They also offer a breakfast special for $2.49 that includes two eggs, two strips of bacon, grits and toast. For lunch and dinner offerings include sandwiches, sandwich trays, seafood plates, salads, soups, side items, speciality plates, vegetables, desserts, and ice cream. Weekly specials include meatloaf with two sides and a drink on Monday; a cheeseburger tray and a drink on Tuesday; hotdogs and footlongs on Wednesday; a BBQ plate with baked beans, slaw and a drink on Thursday; and a flounder sandwich tray and a drink on Friday. Smoky D’s currently has a seating capacity of 116, and private parties are welcome. The business also offers a catering service, and gift certificates are also available. The business also honors all Drum’s of Conover Fish Cards. Smoky D’s is open Monday through Saturday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., and accepts Master Card, Visa and Discover debit and credit cards. For more information, or to place an order, call 464-1450. EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE AT SHEAR BLISS SALON During The Month Of November We Are Offering The Following Specials To All New Clients Mention This Ad To Receive Discount Visit Our New Location At 3020 North Oxford Street, Claremont 459.4444 • 459.4449 Open Monday-Saturday By Appointment • Walk-Ins Welcome Early & Late Appointments Available For Men, Women & Children Call For Specials & Discounts $20 OFF ANY COLOR SERVICE $5 OFF MEN’S OR CHILDREN’S CUTS $15 OFF FULL SET - LIGHT CONCEPT NAILS $15 MANICURES (FOR NAIL SPECIALS, ASK FOR EMILY) WE WILL ALSO HOLD NUMEROUS DRAWINGS FOR PRIZES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH! Shear Bliss Would Like To Introduce The Newest Member Of Its Staff, Holly Cornwell. Holly Has Nine Years Of Experience, And Previously Worked At Sports Clips And Regis Hair Salon. Holly Is A Master Color Specialist And Is Skilled In Advanced Men’s Clipper Cuts. Holly Is Now Accepting Appointments For Men, Women And Children! 12 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Hannah’s Handbags makes announcements CLAREMONT – Hannah’s Handbags and Accessories in Claremont has announced it has started a Pass It On Club. Anyone who purchases merchandise at the store will receive a card to pass on to a potential customer. If that customer brings in the card and purchases something, they will receive a 10 percent discount. The person who passed the card to the potential customer will also receive a 10 percent discount the next time they make a purchase at the store. In addition, everyone who participates in the Pass It On Club will have their name entered into an end of the month drawing for free merchandise. The store will also host a $50 gift certificate raffle at the store on Dec. 1. Tickets can be purchased for $2, or three for $5 in November. Hannah’s Handbags and Accessories is located at 4891 South Depot Street in downtown Claremont. For more information, call 459-9885. Edward Jones branch to host seminar on Nov. 15 CLAREMONT – Edward Jones Financial Advisor, R. Kelley Downey will host an equity investing seminar on Nov. 15 from 6 to 7 p.m. The seminar is entitled, “20/20 Vision: The Case for Equities in the Decade Ahead.” Participants will learn five compelling reasons to consider being an equity investor in this decade. The seminar will be held at the Edward Jones branch office at 3332 East Main Street in downtown Claremont. Space is limited for the seminar, and reservations will be taken through Nov. 11. For more information, questions or to reserve a space for the seminars, contact Marilyn Powell at 459-9933. Holly Cornwell joins Shear Bliss Salon staff CLAREMONT – Shear Bliss Salon at 3020 North Oxford Street in Claremont has announced that Holly Cornwell has joined the staff as a hair stylist. Cornwell has nine years of experience, and has previously worked at Sports Clips and Regis Hair Salon in Hickory. Cornwell specializes in hair CORNWELL styles for men, women and children, and is a master color spe- IS NOW HIRING OVER THE ROAD DRIVERS 39 cpm + BONUSES! GOOD HOME TIME FULL BENEFITS! Must have a CDL-A, One year of recent experience, Good Work History, No Felonies or Drug Charges Call Or Apply Online Today 828-459-3278 www.cargotransporters.com cialist and skilled at advanced men’s clipper cuts. Cornwell is from Lincolnton, and studied at Caldwell Community College. Look at the Shear Bliss ad on page 11 for specials being offered to new clients. For more information, questions, or to schedule an appointment, call Shear Bliss at 459-4444 or 459-4449. Claremont Florist to host holiday open house event CLAREMONT – Claremont Florist at 3246 West Main Street in downtown Claremont has announced it will host a holiday open house event on Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the event free photos will be taken with Santa Claus, and the photos will be available for pick-up the following Monday. For more information or questions, call Claremont Florist at 459-7951, 459-7952 or 464-5830, or visit www.claremontandconoverflorist.com. Veterinary Specialties to host sale in November SHERRILLS FORD – Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake at 1675 Molly’s Backbone Road in Sherrills Ford has announced it will be offering its clients 20 percent off spay and neuter services. The business will also be hosting a sale on all of its inventory, including most food, flea and tick products, OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT FORMER HAIR SALON WITH 600 SQUARE FEET OF SPACE BATHROOM PHONE AND CABLE TV OUTLETS FOR MORE INFORMATION AND RATES CALL DONNA REESE AT SHEAR BLISS 459.4444 • 459.4449 treats, shampoos and other merchandise. For more information or questions, call 4783500, e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.veterinaryspecialtiesatthelake.com. Bethlehem UMC CDC now has openings CLAREMONT – The Bethlehem United Methodist Church Child Development Center at 3214 Catawba Street in Claremont has announced it currently has openings for children ages six weeks to five years old. For more information, questions, or to take a tour of the facility, call Kristy Buff, CDC Director at 459-0086. Free computer classes offered at area libraries NEWTON – The Catawba County Library System will offer adult computer classes in November, and the free 90-minute sessions are taught by trained library staff and pre-registration is required. Classes to be offered are: A how-to session for all ages will be held on e-Books and e-Readers at 10 a.m., on Nov. 19 at the Sherrills Ford Branch. And JobConnector sessions will be held at 3 p.m., on Nov. 30 at the Conover Branch. For more information, questions, or to register for a class, call 465-8664. Let Us Handle All Of Your Storage Needs At... BETHLEHEM MINI STORAGE 28 Bethlehem School Road Hickory Three Miles North Of Lake Hickory For More Information Call: 459-2484 • Fax: 459-2484 E-Mail: [email protected] Or Visit: www.claremontselfstorage.com OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT IN DOWNTOWN CLAREMONT Completely Remodeled Office Space. Located Above Claremont Florist At 3246 West Main Street In Downtown Claremont. For More Information, Call Claremont Florist At 828.459.7951 IT PAYS TO BE OUR CUSTOMER! Licensed by the state of N.C. #NCS-01048 www.b-lineportables.com PORTABLE RESTROOM RENTALS INC. Claremont, NC “Largest In The Area” Construction Sites • Industrial & Recreational • Special Events Daily, Weekly & Monthly Rentals 828.459.3341 877.459.3349 E-Mail: [email protected] In the time our company has been in business, our number of customers has increased at a steady rate. B-Line has become the largest portable restroom providers based in Catawba County. We service Alexander, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Davie, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Mecklenburg and Wilkes counties. We are now offering special rates for new contractor contracts. Call us today for details and more information. Our Staff Is Here To Provide Prompt And Courteous Attention To Your Customer Service Needs From 8AM–4PM, Monday Through Friday. If You Leave A Message After Hours, It Will Be Returned Promptly The Next Business Day. We Even Offer Our Customers The Convenience Of E-Mail. Our Service Trucks Run Multiple Routes Each Week, And You Get All Of This At A Great Low Monthly Rate. Your Complete Satisfaction Is Our Number One Priority! OUR NEWEST LINE OF PORTABLE RESTROOMS OFFERS YOU MORE ROOM, BETTER VENTILATION, A SKY LIGHT, AND YOU CAN ANCHOR THEM TO THE GROUND! OUR PORTABLE RESTROOMS ARE PERFECT FOR: CONSTRUCTION SITES, INDUSTRIAL SITES, SPORTING EVENTS, FESTIVALS, FAIRS, FAMILY REUNIONS, CHURCH HOMECOMINGS, CONCERTS, CORPORATE FUNCTIONS, WEDDING RECEPTIONS, COOKOUTS, TENT REVIVALS, COMPANY PICNICS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES, CLASS REUNIONS, AND SO MUCH MORE! 14 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Easy ways to fall into winter home maintenance INSURANCE INSIGHT BY RUSSELL D. MURR ust as you start to appreciate the rustle of autumn leaves, you’ll inevitably realize slick roads and shovels are soon to follow. Although some of us may not want to think about it yet, winter is just one snowfall away. And the season can cause devastating damage to your home if you do not prepare ahead of time. “Most people make the mistake of procrastinating and putting off home maintenance until it’s too late. The best time to winterize your home is when the leaves are beginning to turn and not when the snow is falling,” advises Russell Murr of Catawba J Valley Insurance Agency, Inc. in Hickory. Erie Insurance recommends homeowners take the following precautions to help protect your home against winter weather: • Maintain Your Gutters – Remove leaves and other debris from gutters so melting snow and ice can flow freely. • Trim Trees And Remove Dead Branches – Ice, snow and wind can cause weak trees or branches to break, damaging your home, car or injuring someone walking on your property. • Add Insulation – Add extra insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Ideally, the attic should be five to ten degrees warmer than the outside air. Wellinsulated basements and crawl spaces can help protect the pipes from freezing. • Maintain Pipes – Wrap pipes with heating tape. Insulate any unfinished rooms or garages with exposed pipes. Check for cracks and leaks. Have any minor pipe damage fixed immediately. • Keep Your House Warm – Keep the temperature in your house at least 65 degrees. The temperature inside the walls where the pipes are located is substantially colder than the walls themselves. If the temperature is lower than 65 degrees it will not keep the pipes from freezing. • Check Heating Systems – The proper use and maintenance of furnaces, fireplaces and wood-burning stoves can prevent fire and smoke damage. Have furnaces, boilers and chimneys serviced at least once a year before the heating season begins. Make sure that all of the smoke alarms are carbon dioxide detectors are working properly. • Maintain Steps And Handrails – Broken stairs and banisters can become lethal when covered with snow and ice. Make repairs now to prevent someone from falling and seriously being injured. This is also a good time of year to review your homeowners policy. Talk to your agent about any major improvements or additions you have made to the home. Make sure you have enough coverage and discuss what is included in the policy. Keep all of your information accurate and up to date. According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in MURR Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 16th largest automobile insurer in the US based on direct premiums written and the 18th largest property/casualty insurer in the US based on total lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, has over four million policies in force and operates in 11 states. Russell D. Murr is an independent insurance agent for Catawba Valley Insurance Agency, at 1075 13th Street SW in Hickory. For more information, call Murr at 267-1100, fax to 267-1102, e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.catawbavalleyinsurance.com. tion at www.catawbavalleyinsurance.com. The Claremont Courier 15 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net When investing, ‘face to face’ beats fingers on keyboard FINANCIAL FOCUS T BY R. KELLEY DOWNEY hese days, you can purchase just about anything you want on the Internet. However, you can still benefit from a human, face-to-face experience for some purchases – such as your investments. And that’s why you may want to work with a financial professional. Unlike a computer interface, a financial professional will take the time to truly know your situation today — and then help you make adjustments tomorrow. Let’s first look at two key areas a finan- CVCC graduates supervisory training class HICKORY – Catawba Valley Community College’s Workforce Development Innovation Center recently recognized graduates of its Supervisory Certification Program. The graduates are employees of local industry. They included Kevin A. Baker of Catawba, Brady Canipe of Newton, John Coffey of Conover, James Fernandez of Conover, Jody Fulbright of Newton, Debbie Funk of Denver, Mike Martin of Conover, and Lisa Treadaway of Claremont. The curriculum was designed to meet specific needs expressed by local companies. Instruction focused on new front-line supervisors and supervisors who desire to increase their skills. For more information or questions about future Supervisory Certification Programs at CVCC, contact Susan Killian at 327-7000, ext. 4330. cial professional will consider today: • Your Risk Tolerance – By asking the right questions, a financial professional can help you determine if you’re a moderate, conservative or aggressive investor and then recommend those investments that are suitable for your risk tolerance. DOWNEY • Your Time Horizon – If you’re saving for a down payment on a new home you expect to purchase within two or three years, you may want an investment that offers significant preservation of principal. But if you’re saving for retirement, and you’re three decades away from it, you’ll likely need investments that offer the potential for growth. Your financial advisor can help you choose the mix of shortand long-term investments that can help you make progress toward all your goals. Dave’s Truck Parts to attend event in Cherokee CLAREMONT – Dave’s Truck Parts in Claremont will be participating in the Fall Cherokee Rod Run on Nov. 4-6 at the Acquoni Expo Center in Cherokee. For more information, call 497-8122 or visit www. cherokee-nc.com. Call Dave’s Truck Parts to make sure they will be participating in the event. Dave’s Truck Parts is located at 3464 Bethany Church Road in Claremont. For more information, call 695-8144 or email to [email protected]. MEETING STATE & ASTM STANDARDS SMITH SETZER & SONS, INC. Manufacturers of Concrete & Corrugated Metal Pipe, Pre-Cast Catch Basins, Flared End Sections and Headwalls PO Box 250 4708 Highway 10 West Catawba, NC 28609-0250 828.241.3161 Now, let’s look at the types of milestones that a financial professional can help you with as your life progresses: • New Child – When you bring a new child into your life, you also add new responsibilities. Do you have sufficient life insurance? Do you plan on helping the child pay for college? If so, what college funding vehicles should you consider? A financial professional can help you answer these questions. • New Spouse – Whether you’re getting married for the first time, or you’re remarrying, you’ll have to reconcile your financial picture with that of your new spouse. A financial professional can review both your situations and possibly recommend ways for you to reduce debt, eliminate redundancies in your investment portfolios and consolidate insurance coverage. • Career Change – When you change jobs, you may have to make many investmentrelated decisions: Should you move the assets from your old employer’s 401(k) to an IRA? Or should you roll over your old 401(k) to your new employer’s plan, if a rollover is allowed? Knowing your options when you leave your job can help you make the right choice for your retirement savings. A quali- fied financial professional can help you review and understand your rollover options. • Retirement – Once you retire, you’ll have several issues to consider: How much can you withdraw from your investments each year? From which accounts? Should you rebalance your portfolio to provide more potential sources of income? What about the transfer of your wealth? A financial professional who is familiar with your situation can help you make the right moves to enjoy the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. So, when you really want to invest, leave the “virtual” world behind and connect with a financial professional – someone who has gained insight into your individual needs and who has the experience and expertise to help you build, maintain and adjust a portfolio that can help you move toward your goals. R. Kelley Downey is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Claremont at 3332 East Main Street in downtown Claremont. For more information, questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Downey at his office during regular business hours at 459-9933, fax to (877) 459-5314, email to richard.downey@edwardjones. com, or visit www.edwardjones.com. You And A Guest Are Cordially Invited to attend an informative seminar on equity investing. 20/20 Vision: The Case for Equities in the Decade Ahead Presented By Kelley Downey Edward Jones 3332 East Main Street Claremont, NC 28610 Attend this seminar to learn five compelling reasons to consider being an equity investor in the decade. Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 – 6:00-7:00 p.m. Place: Edward Jones, 3332 East Main Street, Claremont, NC 28610 RSVP: To attend, please call Marilyn Powell at 828-459-9933 Attendance is limited. Please respond by 11/11/2011. Investors should carefully consider a fund’s investment goals, risks, charges and expenses before investing. To obtain a prospectus or summary prospectus, which contains this and other information, talk to your financial advisor, call Franklin Templeton Investments at (800) DIAL BEN/(800) 342-5236 or visit www.franklintempleton.com. Please carefully read the prospectus before you invest or send money. Not FDIC Insured May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee 16 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Cutting-edge technology for the health of your pet PAWS TO PONDER BY JANE A. BARBER, DVM, MS, DACT ou may have seen news articles on football star Peyton Manning, Yankees pitcher Bartolo Colon and other sports athletes who have undergone adult stem cell therapy (ASCT). Their results are phenomenal. ASCT works just as well on senior pets with degenerative conditions – the technology has been around for several years, but was prohibitively costly for many until now. Dr. Jane Barber and her team at Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake are now offering affordable, same day, in-hospital ASCT for dogs and cats. What is adult stem cell therapy? Stem cells are the body’s repair cells. They have the ability to divide and differentiate into many different types of cells based on where they are needed throughout the body. Stem cells can divide and turn into tissues such as skin, fat, muscle, bone, cartilage, and nerve. They even possess the ability to replicate into organs such as the heart, liver, intestines, and pancreas. ASCT does not use embryonic stem cells. What can Veterinary Specialties do with Y LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED 108 Leaning Oak Drive Mooresville (Next to Goodwill on Williamson Road) GENERIC CLARITIN 10 MG $2.99 FOR 30 COUNT! Only valid with coupon. Coupon expires on 11/30/2011. HIGHWAY 150 YMCA HEALTH SMART PHARMACY LEANING OAK DRIVE BRAWLEY SCHOOL ROAD ROAD www.healthsmartpharmacy.net EXTENDED HOURS MON-FRI – 8:30 AM-6:30 PM SAT – 9:00 AM-2:00 PM NOVEMber SPECIAL WILLIAMSON 704.658.1184 • Drive-Thru Service • Short Wait Times • Easy Prescription Transfers • Free Local Delivery • Compounding Services • Free Mail-Out Services • Most Insurance Plans Accepted • Friendly Personal Service • Diabetic Footwear • Immunizations By Certified Pharmacist • In Home Delivery Of Nebulizer • Pet Prescriptions Medication Medicare Recipients • And More WELTON WAY DOUG BALOG, R.Ph. the stem cells? Adult stem cells are capable of dividing into many different cell types and can be used to repair many types of tissues. ASCT is particularly effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease. As with people, osteoarthritis robs our pets of the ability to do the things they love. With ASCT, your pet’s own cells help slow and/or repair the diseased tissues. After ASCT, most patients with osteoarthritis are able to significantly reduce or completely stop the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medication. Patients have substantial improvement in their range of motion, activity, and quality of life. ASCT results in significant improvement in cats that have stomatitis, a painful and debilitating disease, making it possible for them to get off of steroid medications. ASCT is also used to treat a variety of chronic skin conditions. Ongoing research, targeting other diseases, is very promising. What makes Veterinary Specialties’ technology better? Veterinary Specialties has partnered with MediVet-America (www. MediVet-America.com), the world’s leading animal stem cell research company, to bring this technology to the Carolinas. Adult stem cells, harvested from your senior pet, can give them back the quality of life that they deserve. Harvested stem cells can also be cryobanked for use at a later date. In performance animals, stems cells are often harvested when the animal is young, is a prime anesthetic candidate, and the highest yield of stem cells can be obtained. A perfect time for younger pets to have stem cells harvested is when they are already undergoing anesthesia for their spay or neuter procedures. What does ASCT entail? While your pet is under anesthesia, Dr. Barber surgically removes a couple tablespoons of fat. This is a quick and simple procedure. Technicians then process the fat to harvest the stem cells, which takes a couple of hours. Concentrated stem cells are then administered into the patient’s target areas to be treated or they are cryobanked. When will I see results? While we know every animal is different and there are no guarantees, clinical improvement is seen in 95 percent of arthritis cases nationwide. Some owners have even reported seeing a difference within a week. While quick results are possible, you should expect to see improvement within the first BARBER 90 days following treatment. Severe arthritis may require multiple injections, so banking extra cells is always a good idea. Is this procedure safe? As with any procedure that involves anesthesia, there is always a risk. However, the stem cells are harvested from your pet and are re-administered back into your pet, so there is no risk of an anaphylactic or allergic reaction. Rarely, injection site reactions will occur; they are usually not serious and typically subside within a day or two. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 The Claremont Courier 17 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Antibiotics or no antibiotics? THE MEDICAL MESSAGE BY CRYSTAL MOSTELLER, PA-C his is the time of year when people starting catching colds and getting sick. The first thing the majority of Americans do is rush to the doctor to find out what is wrong with them. But the big questions is, do we treat their sickness with antibiotics or not. This year, November 14-20 is “Get Smart About Anitbiotics Week” sponsored by the Division of Bacterial Diseases, the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Are you aware that most colds, flus, sore throats, and bronchitis are caused by viruses? Did you know that antibiotics do not help fight viruses? It’s true. Antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses. Plus, taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment. Taking antibiotics for viral infections, such as a cold, cough, the flu, or most bronchitis, will not treat the infection, prevent spread to others, or help you feel better any faster. So, how do you decide if you have a virus or bacteria? The best thing to do is go to your health care provider and let them help you decide. Children and adults with viral infections, which antibiotics cannot treat, usually recover when the illness has run its course. Colds can last for up to 7-14 days. You should keep your healthcare provider informed if you or your child’s illness gets worse or lasts longer than expected. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines may help relieve some symptoms. For upper respiratory infections, such as sore throats, ear infections, sinus infections, colds, and bronchitis, try to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, use a clean humidifier or cool T Diabetes cooking school offered in Newton NEWTON – The NC Cooperative Extension in Catawba County will offer a diabetes cooking school on Nov. 7, 14, and 21 from 1 to 3:30 p.m., at the Agricultural Resources Center at 1175 South Brady Avenue in mist vaporizer, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, take acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve pain or fever. You can also use warm compresses in areas that hurt or are congested like the sinuses or ears. For children and adults, OTC pain relievers, decongestants and saline nasal sprays may help relieve some symptoms. Remember, always use OTC products as directed and that many OTC products are not recommended for children younger than certain ages. OTC medicines may help relieve symptoms such as runny nose, congestion, fever and aches, but they do not shorten the length of time you or your child is sick. Your health care provider will help you make the best choice for treatment of your sickness. If antibiotics are prescribed, take it exactly as the doctor tells you. Complete the prescribed course even if you are feeling better because if treatment stops too soon, some bacteria may survive and re-infect you. Even though there should not be left over antibiotics, you should dispose of them if there are some remaining in the bottle, and do not share with others. In order to make sure antibiotics will work when we really need them we must be aware of the facts behind them. Antibiotic resistance is one of the world’s most pressing health threats. Increased antibiotic resistance is compromising the effectiveness of antibiotics. This resistance occurs when bacteria change in a way that reduce or eliminates the effectiveness of the antibiotics. Society contributes to antibiotic resistance by treating viruses with antibiotics. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of antibiotics are unnecessarily prescribed in the office for upper respiratory infections or colds when in fact these resolve on their own. Just because an antibiotic is not prescribed doesn’t mean you are not sick. Viral infections make people Newton. The school has three sessions that will teach how to choose and prepare food to prevent and control diabetes and other chronic diseases. Each person will receive copies of the recipes and publications. Cost for the school is $10 for all three classes or $5 per class, and pre-registration is required. To register, call 465-8240. feel very bad and can be severe, but are only cured with time and symptomatic treatment. So the next time for see your health care provider for your sickness, take their point of view into consideration as to whether you have a bacterial or viral infection and remember antibiotics will MOSTELLER not help cure a virus. Crystal Mosteller is a licensed Physicians Assistant, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Health Care and a Master’s Degree in Medicine. Mosteller currently works at Claremont Family Medicine in Claremont with Dr. Mark Hawkins. Claremont Family Medicine is located at 3221 West Main Street in downtown Claremont, and is open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday. For more information, call Claremont Family Medicine at 459-4445 or visit www.claremontfamilymedicine.com. Meals on Wheels recipients receive pet assistance HICKORY – Catawba County 4-H Club members are collecting dry dog and cat food for the pets of Catawba County Meals on Wheels recipients. The program was recently begun by the local Meals on Wheels, which is operated by the Senior Nutrition Program of Catawba County Social Services. The pet food initiative got a boost last spring with a $500 grant from the WALOP (We All Love Our Pets) fund of the Meals on Wheels Association of America. Now the county’s 4-H clubs and the Catawba County Youth Council are also helping with a pet food drive. From now through the end of January, 15 clubs will be competing against each other to see who can collect the most dry dog and cat food for the program. Gallonsized Ziploc bags are needed to repackage the food. The county’s Meals on Wheels Pet Food Program is a way to serve the emotional needs of senior citizens. It is entirely funded by individual donations, grants and donations of pet food. For more information about the 4-H Club Pet Food Drive, contact Donna Mull at 465-8242 or e-mail to [email protected]. To make a financial contribution to the program, contact Jan Shaffer at 6955617 or e-mail to [email protected]. CLAREMONT FAMILY MEDICINE Mark D. Hawkins, MD Board Certified Crystal Mosteller, PA-C Board Certified 3221 West Main Street • Claremont, NC 459.4445 www.claremontfamilymedicine.com HOURS OF OPERATION MON-TUE & THUR-FRI – 8AM-12PM & 1-5PM • WED. – 8AM-12PM Prescription medications can often cause unpleasant side effects, or are not available in the form or dosage you need. If you find yourself in this situation, talk to your doctor about having your local Medicap Pharmacy® pharmacist custom make your medicine using their compounding service. That’s right, you can have your prescription custom made to fit your specific needs. Your local Medicap Pharmacy® pharmacist, and your doctor, will work together to help you feel your best. Now, that’s a healthy dose of reality. Visit our web site at www.medicap.com 317 First Street East, Conover 464.4491 – Ron Harwell, R.Ph. We Are A Full Service Care Facility That Offers WEIGHT LOSS TREATMENT LOW TESTOSTERONE SCREENING Female Provider In The Clinic • Gyn Care • X-Ray • EKG Insomnia, Fatigue & Joint Pain Evaluations • Labwork Comprehensive Health Care • Minor Skin Procedures Vaccinations • Physicals (Regular & DOT) • And More! WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCE PLANS! NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! 18 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Yoga for Seniors program offered in Newton Cutting-edge technology for the health of your pet NEWTON – The Newton Parks and Recreation Department and the Catawba County Council on Aging will offer Yoga for Seniors every Thursday morning in November for a suggested donation of $3 per class to those ages 60 and over. The class will be held at the Newton Recreation Center at 23 South Brady Avenue in downtown Newton from 10 to 11 a.m., on Nov. 3, 10, and 17. The class will introduce participants to basic postures and techniques used in yoga to relax the body and calm the mind. The instructor will provide individual attention to physical limitations presented by each class member and will offer alternative movements to prevent any discomfort. For more information, call 695-4317 or visit www.newtonnc.gov. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 How do I get started? Call 478-3500 during regular business hours to schedule an appointment with Dr. Barber at Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake. Barber and her team of caring professionals will consult with you on the best Adult Stem Cell Therapy options for your pet. Dr. Jane A. Barber, DVM, MS, DACT is the owner and operator of Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake, which is located at 1675 Molly’s Backbone Road in the Sherrills Ford community. Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake is open for business on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more information, questions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Barber and her staff, call the main office at 478-3500, e-mail to vetspec@ charter.net or visit the Veterinary Specialties Hospital at the Lake Web site at www.veterinaryspecialtiesatthelake.com. Claremont senior citizens to host meeting on Nov. 16 CLAREMONT – The monthly breakfast for area Senior Citizens will be held on Nov. 16 at 8:30 a.m., in the Fellowship Hall of First SICK? GET TREATMENT TODAY! Family Healthcare Practice Baptist Church in Claremont at 4791 South Depot Street in Claremont. The program will be presented by Gail Wartner of Rising Hope Farms in Claremont. The breakfast consists of bacon, sausage, eggs, grits, biscuits, gravy, orange juice and coffee. The cost is $3.50 per person, and all area senior citizens are welcome to attend. RSVP your attendance to Susan Tucker at 465-9971 by Nov. 15. Holiday adoption program seeks volunteers HICKORY – ALFA, the regional AIDS service Organization, is seeking volunteers to help with its annual holiday adoption program. This annual event provides holiday gifts for the children of ALFA’s clients. The holiday adoption program offers an opportunity to help some clients spend a nice holiday season with their families. Volunteers are asked to contact ALFA by Nov. 30, and select how many children they would like to adopt. Each volunteer will be matched up anonymously with a family, and given first name(s), age(s), shoe and clothing sizes, and wants/needs. Gifts should then be wrapped (with the first name on each package) and dropped off at the ALFA office by Dec. 16. For clients who do not have children, ALFA is asking for sponsors to donate $5 gift cards and/or small gift bags filled with holiday treats. To sign up to adopt a family, contact Adria Cline at 322-1447, ext. 226, e-mail to ALFACMS@ ALFAinfo.org or visit www.alfainfo.org. Council on Aging to host quilt raffle fundraiser HICKORY – The Catawba County Council on Aging is holding a quilt raffle for a locally made quilt which will be raffled off at the CoA’s annual holiday breakfast on Dec. 1, at the Newton Recreation Department at 23 South Brady Avenue in Newton. Raffle tickets are being sold for $1 each. The national award winning quilt was made by Nora Deal Yount, 1910-2007, in the 1980’s. Proceeds from the raffle will be used by the Council on Aging to further their work with area seniors. The CoA offers education, entertainment and assistance to residents of Catawba County. Income tax assistance, SHIIP counseling, travel opportunities, health and wellness programs including line dancing, yoga and tai chi, holiday events, craft and computer classes and Operation Heat Relief are a few of the services provided by the council. The CoA provided information and direct assistance to more than 4,000 seniors in 2010. Tickets are available by calling the CoA office at 328-2269 “Healthcare Where The Patient Matters Most” * * NOW OPEN IN CONOVER * * • • • Accepting Most Insurance. Kim H. Cline, FNP-BC Family Nurse Practitioner Physicals • Minor Surgery PAP’s • Weight Loss DOT • Programs No Insurance? No Problem. Anyone can lose weight, very few can maintain it Finally a plan proven time and time again for the TREATMENT of weight gain. Join us and learn how to, once and for all, be successful in attaining your weight goals. No Gimmicks • No Pills! This could be you! 160 lost in 12 months 130 1st Street West, Downtown Conover BEFORE 466-3000 AFTER A Full Service Pharmacy Offering Fast And Friendly Service! Servicios Españoles Disponibles! DRIVE-THRU WINDOW • FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SPECIALTY ITEMS AVAILABLE PATIENT COUNSELING • MEDICATION FLAVORING GREETING CARDS • HERBALS • SUNDRIES (Across From Catawba Valley Medical Center) AND SO MUCH MORE! 815 FAIRGROVE CHURCH ROAD SE, CONOVER 828.322.4505 RON SHOKES, RPh, FASCP FAX: 828.322.2669 JIM SUAREZ, RPh, FASCP HOURS OF OPERATION WEEKDAYS – 9AM-8PM SATURDAY – 9AM-1PM BIOFREEZE PAIN RELIEVING GEL 4 OZ. NOW ON SALE FOR ONLY $9.99! SERVING THE AREA FOR OVER 30 YEARS! The Claremont Courier 19 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net November blood drives scheduled in the area HICKORY – The American Red Cross Catawba Valley chapter has announced its area Blood Drives for the month of November throughout the area. The American Red Cross suggests that you drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine on the day of the drive. You must also bring a photo ID before you can give blood. For more information or questions, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. • Nov. 2 – 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dale Earnhardt Chevrolet, 1774 Highway 16 South, Newton. • Nov. 3 – 2:30 to 7 p.m., Startown Baptist Church, 2615 Sigmon Dairy Road, Newton. • Nov. 8 – 3 to 7:30 p.m., Friendship Methodist Church, 2900 NC Highway 16 South, Newton. • Nov. 11 – 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 2103 Mt. Olive Church Road, Newton. • Nov. 12 – 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Peninsula Baptist Church, 687 Brawley School Road, Mooresville. • Nov. 12 – 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 3761 Startown Road, Newton. • Nov. 14 – 3 to 7:30 p.m., Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church, 4136 Mt. Pleasant Church Road, Sherrills Ford. • Nov. 16 – 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Mitchell Community College, 219 North Academy Street, Mooresville. • Nov. 17 – 2:30 to 7 p.m., Claremont Elementary School, 3384 East Main Street, Claremont. • Nov. 18 – 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Newton Public Library, 115 West C Street, Newton. • Nov. 23 – 12 to 4:30 p.m., Abernathy Laurels, 102 Leonard Avenue, Newton. • Nov. 26 – 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Lowe’s, 509 River Highway, Mooresville. • Nov. 27 – 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., WalMart, 201 Zelkova Court NW, Conover. • Nov. 30 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lenoir Rhyne University, 7th Avenue and 8th Street NE, Hickory. • Dec. 5 – 3 to 8 p.m., St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 3216 West Main Street, Claremont. • Dec. 7 – 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., Concord UMC, 7618 Mombo Road, Catawba. and more. The food collected will help local residents who may be disabled or handicapped, and those in need in the community. Donation locations include Newton City Hall, the Newton Recreation Department and the Central Recreation Department. Hours for donation drop-off are: City Hall, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Newton Recreation Center, Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Central Recreation Center, Monday through Thursday 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Newton Recreation Center at 695-4317. Newton to host canned food drive NEWTON – The Newton Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor a canned food drive to benefit the Eastern Catawba Cooperative Christian Ministry (ECCCM) Hunger Prevention Program. The campaign will run through Dec. 16. Non-perishable food items accepted include canned fruits, canned soups, canned vegetables, and boxes of grits, macaroni, rice, oatmeal, dried beans, The local Medicap Pharmacy® store makes it simple for you to order your prescriptions refills without leaving home. You can order your refills day or night using their easy-to-use online prescription refill program at www.medicap.com or call the store and use their automated phone refill service. Either way, it’s so easy. And if you ever have a question about your medications, just call your Medicap Pharmacy® pharmacist. Now, that’s a healthy dose of reality. Visit our web site at www.medicap.com 401 West A Street, Newton 466.1500 – Melinda Travis, R.Ph. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL MELISSA FISHER AT 828.320.2124 OR VISIT WWW.ANEWYOUWRAPS. ITWORKS.NET [email protected] GET YOUR SEXY BACK See Results in as little as 45 Minutes! NO PAIN, BRUISING, OR SURGERY! NATURALLY BASED BODY CONTOURING TREATMENT. TIGHTENS, TONES, AND FIRMS WHERE APPLIED TO THE SKIN. HELPS MINIMIZE THE APPEARANCE OF CELLULITE & SKIN SLACKENING. SUCCESSFUL, LONGLASTING RESULTS FOR BOTH MEN & WOMEN. 20 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Bandys Army JROTC drill team wins competition CATAWBA – The Bandys High School Army JROTC Trojan Drill Team took first place overall in an area drill competition held recently at South Rowan High School. Bandys competed at the Raider Drill Meet against 10 area high schools, the team earned five first-place trophies in Exhibition Drill, four in Army Regulation Drill, and placed second and third in all other competitive drill events. The Trojan Drill Team won the State Championship in 2010-2011 and placed third in the Army’s National Drill Competition. For more information, visit www.catawbaschools.net/schools/Bandys/default.aspx. Bandys counselor named counselor of the year CATAWBA – De Batchelor, a counselor at Bandys High School, has been named the Catawba County Schools Secondary Counselors of the Year. Batchelor was nominated by Bandys Principal, Todd Black. He considers her to be an advocate for all Bandys students. In her interview, Batchelor suggested that her nomination was truly a team nomination and was a testament to the entire counseling department at Bandys. NCEF to host Holiday Tour of Homes on Dec. 1 NEWTON – Tickets are now on sale for the Holiday Tour of Homes 2011, sponsored by the Newton-Conover Education Foundation. The tour will be held on Dec. 1 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. (Inclement weather date is Dec. 5), and will feature six homes. Tickets are on sale for $15 at the NCCS Administrative Office, 2 Pink Magnolias in downtown Newton, Conover City Hall, Shops on Main in downtown Conover and Zander’s Coffeehouse in downtown Newton. Door prizes will be awarded, and refreshments will be served at 2 Pink Magnolias. More more information, call 217-1515. Area student named Rotary Student of the Month CATAWBA – Zack Sigmon, son of Eric and Julie Sigmon of Claremont, was honored as the Rotary Student of the Month at Bandys High School. Principal Todd Black introduced Sigmon to the members of the Sherrills FordTerrell Rotary Club at their breakfast meeting on Oct. 19. Sigmon is involved in student government and is the senior class poet. He is co-captain of the tennis team, president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and is a member of the Key Club and Varsity Green. Sigmon organized the Bandys High School Prayer Group, meeting each week to pray for the school, teachers, staff and students, and to help and support other students. Sigmon intends to attend Bob Jones University, majoring in creative writing. His career goal is to write for Christian publications. For information about the Sherrills Ford-Terrell Rotary Club, e-mail to [email protected], or visit www.sftrotary.com. Holiday coloring contest continues until Nov. 18 NEWTON – The Newton Festival and Events Committee is hosting its third annual holiday coloring contest through Nov. 18, with one winner to be selected from the following age groups: 1-3, 4-6, and 7-10. Entry forms and coloring pages can be picked up at Newton City Hall, Newton Recreation Center, or at www. newtonnc.gov. Entries must be postmarked by Nov. 18, and mailed to: Holiday Coloring Contest, c/o Newton Parks & Recreation Department, PO Box 550, Newton, NC 28658. Winners will be contacted before the Light Up the Town celebration on Nov. 27. Contest winners will be invited to turn on the downtown Christmas lights, and win gift certificates from local merchants. For more information, call Catherine LeFevers at 464-8922 (evenings). Claremont Elementary teachers win Wal-Mart grant CLAREMONT – Teacher’s at Claremont Elementary School were recently awarded ten $100 gift cards from Wal-Mart in Conover. The grant was applied for by kindergarten teacher, Teri Eller, who discovered the grant and Teacher’s Reward Program while shopping. Teachers winning gift cards included; Stephanie Kale, Kristi Fulbright, Annette Kiger, Rebecca Stewart, Lisa Mateyunas, Dustin Boykin, Maysee Ly, Britney Miller, Marsha Hollar and Amanda Moose. The Conover Wal-Mart also donated recycle tote bags filled with classroom supplies to every teacher on the staff, and brought a cake for the gift card presentation. Bandys to host holiday bazaar on Nov. 3 CATAWBA – Bandys High School at 5040 East Bandys Road in Catawba will host a holiday bazaar in the school cafeteria on Nov. 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. The free event will feature various craft booths, bake sale, silent auction, and a spaghetti supper. Proceeds from the event will go to the Bandys Child Care Center. Craft booths are still available. For more information, call 241-3171, ext. 5418. Brighten Academy is searching for a part time evening floater: Education requirements include early childhood credentials and one year experience. Apply Now! Call 828-478-4040. Caregivers often need assistance understanding and explaining the medications their loved ones take on a routine basis. Your local Medicap Pharmacy® pharmacist is here to help. They will explain to you and your loved one the importance of taking all medications correctly. The pharmacist will discuss how and when to take the medications and alert you to possible drug interactions. Their goal is to make sure everyone understands their medications so you can feel your best. Now, that’s a healthy dose of reality Visit our web site at www.medicap.com 201 2nd Avenue SW, Catawba 241.2422 – Brad Moser, R.Ph. The Claremont Courier 21 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Donna Heavner named CCS Principal of the Year CLAREMONT – Donna Heavner, principal at River Bend Middle School in Claremont has been chosen by her peers as the 2011-2012 Catawba County Schools (CCS) principal of the year. Heavner will represent CCS in the Northwest Region Principal of the Year competition from which one principal will advance to state competition. Heavner received both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in middle school education, concentration in mathematics, from Lenoir-Rhyne University. Heavner also earned a Master’s in school administration from Gardner-Webb University. Kids Marathon of Catawba County makes changes CLAREMONT – The seventh annual Kids Marathon of Catawba County has announced plans to change the date and venue from December at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in downtown Claremont to May 12, 2012 at the Hickory American Legion Fair Grounds on Highway 70 in Newton. The change of location and date was based on the fact that the marathon has outgrown the St. Mark’s venue; and the Claremont Christmas Parade made the Kids’ Marathon final quite congestive. All area elementary schools are invited to participate, and the top five schools will receive a cash award; the top school will receive a $2,500 award. Twelve area schools participated in the 2010 marathon. The marathon was established in 2005 with the goal to help the children of Catawba County exercise more and live healthier lives. Students are asked to run or walk a total of 25 miles over a four to eight week period, and all participants are invited to run or walk the last mile together. Schools and individuals interested in participating can contact Henry Helton at 459-9016 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Bunker Hill to host fundraiser on Nov. 19 CLAREMONT – Bunker Hill High School in Claremont has announced plans to host a babreque and bingo night fundraiser at the school on Nov. 19. The meal will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., and bingo will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale for the event at the main office. Tickets will be sold leading up to the event, but not at the event. For more information or questions, call the Bunker Hill main office at 2413355. Bunker Hill High School is located at 4675 Oxford School Road in Claremont. CLAREMONT FLORIST Will Be Hosting A Holiday Open House On Saturday, Nov. 19 From 10 AM-4 PM Free Photos Will Be Taken With Santa Claus, And Available For Pick -Up The Following Monday 459-7951 • 459-7952 • 464-5830 3246 WEST MAIN STREET DOWNTOWN CLAREMONT HOURS OF OPERATION MON-FRI – 9AM-5:30PM • SAT – 9AM-1PM www.claremontandconoverflorist.com CLAREMONT SELF-STORAGE Our Goal Is To Offer You Safe, Affordable Storage For All Of Your Needs. We Offer Storage For • HOUSEHOLD ITEMS • FURNITURE • BUSINESS RECORDS • OFFICE EQUIPMENT • CARS • BOATS • RV’S • CAMPERS • AND MORE! Our Facility Is Secured By An Entry Gate & Fence With LOW MONTHLY RATES 24/7 ACCESS NO DEPOSIT/MONTHLY TERMS Located at Exit 135 off of I-40 in Claremont Office Located At The Dive Shop. Office And Facility Located Across from Burger King. 828.459.2484 Key Pad Entry System, Video Surveillance & 24 Hour Lighting! www.claremontselfstorage.com charge, and students under the age of 18 who wish to enter the GED program must complete a parent permission form and attend a brief interview session before attending New Beginnings. For more information, contact Tina Fredell at 327-7000, ext. 4353. Bunker Hill marching band does well at competition CLAREMONT – The Bunker Hill High School Marching Bears competed at Fred T. Foard High School on Oct. 22, and won numerous trophies at the event. Their awards included: first place in music; first place in general effect; first place in marching; second place in drumline; second place in colorguard; first place in band class 1A; and an overall rating of excellent. Youth Council members attend conference in Raleigh CLAREMONT – Three members of the 20112012 Claremont Youth Council and an adult advisor attend the seventh annual League of Municipalities Youth Summit titled “Making Cents: Youth Innovations in a Troubled Economy.” The conference was held in Raleigh and participants tried their expertise with a budget planning game called Budgetopoly. During the trip the group also witnessed firsthand the Occupy Raleigh protest at the state capital. Members of the Claremont Youth Council that attended the conference, included Allie Setzer, Abbie Setzer, and Matthew Benfield. Also attending the conference was Claremont Youth Council adult advisor, Susan Tucker. The 2011-2012 Claremont Youth Council has nine members from Bandys and Bunker Hill High School. For more information or questions regarding the Claremont Youth Council, e-mail Susan Tucker at [email protected]. CVCC to offer GED orientations in November HICKORY – Adults can earn a high school equivalency diploma, or GED (General Educational Development), through Catawba Valley Community College. Open class times are offered in flexible formats to meet any schedule and are completely free. To get started, “New Beginnings GED Orientation” sessions are offered to provide more details at the following times and locations: Nov. 7 and 8 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Nov. 9 and 10 from 5 to 9 p.m.; and Nov. 22 and 23 from 1 to 5 p.m. All classes will be held at the CVCC East Campus in Hickory Attendance at the orientation session is required to enter CVCC’s GED program. There is no 5949 Sherrills Ford Road Catawba 828.241.2439 828.241.9440 Hours of Operation Monday-Saturday – 5:30 AM-9 PM Sunday – 8 AM-8 PM General Store & Grille We’re digging to please. We Accept Cash, Debit Cards, Credit Cards and Local Checks The Gold Mine Offers: • DVD Rentals • Hot & Tender Fried Chicken • Groceries, Snacks & Drinks • The Best Burgers In Town • Daily Food Specials • Hunt Brothers Pizza • Buffalo Wings • Hand Dipped Ice Cream • Milk Shakes • Quality NAPA Parts • U-Haul Rentals • Notary Service • NC Hunting, Fishing & Boat Licenses We Are Now Serving Salt & Pepper Catfish • NC Lottery Games All Day On Friday! Plates Include Cole Slaw, • Hardware French Fries, Hush Puppies & Homemade • Bait & Tackle Tarter Sauce For Only $6.99 Plus Tax! • Propane Refills We Also Serve Fresh Fried • Gas, Diesel & Kerosene Chicken All Day, Every Day! Check Us Out On Facebook 22 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net BUNKER HILL HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE Nov. 22 – Bunker Hill at North Lincoln Nov. 28 – Bunker Hill at Alexander Central Nov. 29 – North Lincoln at Bunker Hill Dec. 2 – St. Stephens at Bunker Hill Dec. 6 – Bunker Hill at Fred T. Foard Dec. 9 – Bunker Hill at St. Stephens Dec. 13 – Bunker Hill at East Burke Dec. 15 – South Iredell at Bunker Hill Dec. 19 – Fred T. Foard at Bunker Hill Dec. 27-29 – Catawba Valley Classic Jan. 3 – Draughn at Bunker Hill Jan. 6 – Bunker Hill at Newton-Conover Jan. 10 – Bunker Hill at West Caldwell Jan. 13 – Maiden at Bunker Hill Jan. 17 – Bunker Hill at Bandys Jan. 20 – East Burke at Bunker Hill Jan. 24 – Bunker Hill at South Iredell Jan. 27 – Bunker Hill at Draughn Jan. 31 – Newton-Conover at Bunker Hill Feb. 3 – West Caldwell at Bunker Hill Feb. 7 – Bunker Hill at Maiden Feb. 10 – Bandys at Bunker Hill BANDYS HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE Nov. 22 – Bandys at North Iredell Nov. 29 – St. Stephens at Bandys Nov. 30 – Fred T. Foard at Bandys Dec. 2 – Bandys at North Lincoln Dec. 8 – North Iredell at Bandys Dec. 9 – Bandys at Fred T. Foard Dec. 13 – Draughn at Bandys Dec. 15 – Newton-Conover at Bandys Dec. 20 – Bandys at St. Stephens Dec. 29-30 – Peoples Bank Tournament Jan. 3 – Bandys at West Caldwell Jan. 6 – Maiden at Bandys Jan. 10 – Bandys at South Iredell Jan. 13 – Bandys at East Burke Jan. 17 – Bunker Hill at Bandys Jan. 20 – Bandys at Draughn Jan. 24 – Bandys at Newton-Conover Jan. 27 – West Caldwell at Bandys Jan. 31 – Bandys at Maiden Feb. 3 – South Iredell at Bandys Feb. 7 – East Burke at Bandys Feb. 10 – Bandys at Bunker Hill NEWTON-CONOVER HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE NEWTON-CONOVER HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 WRESTLING SCHEDULE Nov. 15 – Newton-Conover at North Iredell Nov. 22 – Newton-Conover at St. Stephens Nov. 30 – East Lincoln at Newton-Conover Dec. 5 – Newton-Conover at Hickory Dec. 7 – St. Stephens at Newton-Conover Dec. 9 – Newton-Conover at East Lincoln Dec. 13 – Maiden at Newton-Conover Dec. 15 – Newton-Conover at Bandys Dec. 20 – Hickory at Newton-Conover Dec. 27-29 – Catawba Valley Classic Jan. 3 – Newton-Conover at East Burke Jan. 6 – Bunker Hill at Newton-Conover Jan. 10 – Newton-Conover at Draughn Jan. 13 – South Iredell at Newton-Conover Jan. 17 – West Caldwell at Newton-Conover Jan. 20 – Newton-Conover at Maiden Jan. 24 – Bandys at Newton-Conover Jan. 27 – East Burke at Newton-Conover Jan. 31 – Newton-Conover at Bunker Hill Feb. 3 – Draughn at Newton-Conover Feb. 7 – Newton-Conover at South Iredell Feb. 10 – Newton-Conover at West Caldwell Nov. 21 – Newton-Conover, Hopewell and North Lincoln at North Gaston Nov. 22 – Newton-Conover and Freedom at West Lincoln Nov. 29 – Newton-Conover at Alexander Central Dec. 3 – Newton-Conover at St. Stephens Dec. 8 – West Wilkes at Newton-Conover Dec. 9 – Newton-Conover at North Iredell Dec. 10 – Newton-Conover at North Iredell Dec. 13 – Ashbrook at Newton-Conover Dec. 19 – St. Stephens at Newton-Conover Dec. 30 – Newton-Conover at East Burke Jan. 3 – Newton-Conover and Kings Mountain at South Caldwell Jan. 7 – Newton-Conover at McDowell Jan. 10 – Draughn at Newton-Conover Jan. 13 – Newton-Conover at South Iredell Jan. 17 – Newton-Conover at West Caldwell Jan. 20 – Maiden at Newton-Conover Jan. 24 – Newton-Conover at Bandys Jan. 27 – Newton-Conover at East Burke Jan. 31 – Bunker Hill at Newton-Conover Camaro, Chevelle & Nova Parts Special Order Only! Max’s Muffler & Auto Repair Owner David Hamby 1967-2006 Steel Cowl Induction Hoods In Stock $320 to $400! 1947-1987 Chevy & GMC Truck Parts BUMPERS • INTERIORS GRILLES • CARPETS RUBBER PARTS & MORE! 3464 Bethany Church Road Claremont Open: Tues.-Fri. - 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM & Sat. - 8 AM - 1 PM 828.695.8144 [email protected] 2002 Emmanuel Church Road Conover Ryan’s 704.325.0496 Sports Bar & Grill FORMALLY WHEELER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY 11 AM – 12 AM THURSDAY-SATURDAY 11 AM – 2 AM Follow Us On Facebook We Accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover & Debit Cards Mention This Ad And Get 10% Off Exhaust Work 1891 MATHIS CHURCH ROAD CATAWBA 828.241.2694 • Mufflers & Tailpipes • Custom Exhaust • 1 1/2” to 3” Exhaust Pipe • Brake Work • Oil Changes • A/C Repair • Welding • Official Inspection Station HOURS OF OPERATION MON.-THUR. – 8AM-5PM & FRI. – 8AM-1PM MAX LEE, JR. OWNER FOOD SERVED DAILY FROM 11 AM – 10 PM Mozzarella Sticks....................................$3.50 French Fries............................................$2.25 Onion Rings.............................................$3.00 Pub Chips.................................................$2.25 Jalapeno Poppers....................................$3.50 Hush Puppies...........................................$2.00 Jumbo Chicken Wings (Mild, Medium, Hot Or BBQ) Four Wings......$3.50 – Six Wings......$5.00 Appetizer Sampler – 2 Wings, 2 Mozzarella Sticks, 2 Jalapeno Poppers, Onion Rings & Fries...$6.00 Hamburger..............................................$3.50 Cheeseburger...........................................$3.75 Corn Dog.................................................$2.25 Hot Dog....................................................$2.25 Chili Dog..................................................$2.50 WE ALSO FEATURE Chicken Tenders......................................$4.50 JAMMIN’ KARAOKE WITH JERRY MOOSE Grilled Chicken Sandwich.....................$4.25 FROM 9 PM – 1 AM EVERY SATURDAY! AN OUTDOOR SEATING AREA! GAMES INCLUDING Basket Orders Add.................................$1.50 Soda (Can).....$1.00 – Soda (Fountain).....$1.50 POOL, DARTS, HORSESHOES & CORN HOLE! ENJOY ALL YOUR FAVORITE SPORTING EVENTS Sweet Tea........$1.50 – Bottled Water........$1.00 EAT IN • TAKE OUT • LARGE ORDERS WELCOME ON ONE OF OUR FIVE HD TELEVISIONS! OUR DAILY SPECIALS INCLUDE ••••• MONDAY ••••• $2 WELL DRINKS ••••• TUESDAY ••••• .40¢ CHICKEN WINGS ••••• WEDNESDAY ••••• $1.50 DOMESTIC BEERS ••••• THURSDAY ••••• $4.50 JAGER BOMBS & MONSTER BOMBS ••••• FRIDAY ••••• LIVE MUSIC ••••• SATURDAY & SUNDAY ••••• $7 MILLER & BUSCH LIGHT PITCHER BEER $8.75 BUD LIGHT & YUENGLING PITCHER BEER The Claremont Courier 23 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Panthers defense needs help THE SPORTS REPORT BY RANDY INMAN am writing this column on Oct. 24, which was the day after Cam Newton’s best NFL game so far. Newton didn’t throw for 400 yards against the Washington Redskins, but his passes were accurate and he didn’t turn the ball over. One could not ask for much more from a rookie quarterback. I believe the Carolina Panthers have a playoff class offense, but not so much of a defense. One might think injuries to defensive starters, Thomas Davis and Jon Beason are why the defense is so down. While that certainly didn’t help, the defensive line and secondary are the main issues with this team. The Carolina Panthers are probably going to feature a 3-4 defense next year, and are already showing that look this season. I think the Panthers may have gone to the 3-4 defense this year if they had thought they would have had time to install the system. Linebacker, James Anderson told me via the Schoolofthelegends.com Web site that they will be experimenting more with that defensive scheme this season. The problem is that the Panthers have invested a lot of money in numerous 4-3 defensive players. I am not sure Beason is an inside 3-4 linebacker, and I doubt Charles Johnson is an outside linebacker in this scheme. Johnson is a 4-3 pass rushing defensive end, and is too small to play nose tackle or even defensive end in the 3-4. While I like the 3-4 defense, I feel switching to the 3-4 will set the Panthers defense back another season. I would look for a new defensive coordinator to be hired in the off-season which would be a plus for the team. The current trend for many teams is to add more offensive help to win high scoring shootouts. That is what the Panthers may do since Cam Newton is clearly a franchise quarterback. There will be a multitude of quality wide receiver free agents in 2012, and I hope the Panthers sign one to go with Steve Smith. Then the Panthers should load up on defensive help, and maybe some offensive linemen with the draft. I am fairly sure the Panthers I BUNKER HILL HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 WRESTLING SCHEDULE Nov. 22 – Bunker Hill at East Burke Nov. 30 – Fred T. Foard and North Wilkes at Bunker Hill Dec. 3 – Bunker Hill at St. Stephens Dec. 7 – Bunker Hill at West Caldwell Dec. 9 – Bear Classic at Bunker Hill Dec. 13 – East Wilkes and St. Stephens at Bunker Hill Dec. 17 – Bunker Hill at Porter Ridge Dec. 27 – Bunker Hill at North Gaston Jan. 10 – West Caldwell at Bunker Hill Jan. 13 – Bunker Hill at Maiden Jan. 17 – Bandys at Bunker Hill Jan. 20 – Bunker Hill at East Burke Jan. 24 – South Iredell at Bunker Hill Jan. 27 – Draughn at Bunker Hill Jan. 31 – Bunker Hill at Newton-Conover Bunker Hill selling bricks for Bear Park CLAREMONT – Bunker Hill High School is currently building a base for a new statue located on the football field. This new statue will be a dedication to all current and past students, faculty, staff and the community. In efforts to build a permanent base for the statue, the athletics department is selling will be a playoff contender in 2012, and perhaps even a Super Bowl contender by 2013 if the defense improves. Randy Inman is a freelance writer living in Claremont. His most recent project is covering the Carolina Panthers for sportsblog.com. You can visit “The INMAN Panther Paw” at http://panthers.sportsblog. com/ for more information. “Your complete tire & auto service center” Town & Country Tire 2883 North Oxford Street, Claremont 459.4494 OPEN MON-FRI 7:30AM – 5:30PM 4-Wheel Alignment • Computerized Balancing • Batteries Safety Inspections • Brake Service • Oil Changes & Lube • And More! Dealer For Michelin, Laramie, El Dorado, Remington And Performer GT American Racing Wheels! CATAWBA COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL 2011-2012 WRESTLING SCHEDULES Nov. 29 – Jacobs Fork at Mill Creek Nov. 29 – River Bend at H.M. Arndt Dec. 1 – Mill Creek at River Bend Dec. 1 – Newton-Conover at Hickory Dec. 6 – H.M. Arndt at Newton-Conover Dec. 6 – River Bend at Maiden Dec. 6 – Hickory at Mill Creek Dec. 8 – Jacobs Fork at River Bend Dec. 8 – Mill Creek at Newton-Conover Dec. 13 – H.M. Arndt at Mill Creek Dec. 13 – Newton-Conover at Maiden Dec. 15 – Jacobs Fork at Newton-Conover Dec. 15 – River Bend at Hickory Jan. 3 – Maiden at Mill Creek Jan. 3 – Newton-Conover at River Bend Jan. 5 – Mill Creek at Jacobs Fork Jan. 5 – H.M. Arndt at River Bend Jan. 10 – River Bend at Mill Creek Jan. 10 – Hickory at Newton-Conover Jan. 12 – Newton-Conover at H.M. Arndt Jan. 12 – Maiden at River Bend Jan. 12 – Mill Creek at Hickory Jan. 17 – River Bend at Jacobs Fork Jan. 17 – Newton-Conover at Mill Creek Jan. 19 – Mill Creek at H.M. Arndt Jan. 19 – Maiden at Newton-Conover Jan. 26 – Newton-Conover at Jacobs Fork Jan. 26 – Hickory at River Bend Jan. 31 – Mill Creek at Maiden Jan. 31 – River Bend at Newton-Conover 4x8 and 8x8 bricks to be placed around the statue in Bear Park. A 4x8 paver brick costs $75, and can contain three lines of text with 15 characters per line including spaces and punctuation. A 8x8 granite brick costs $200, and can contain five lines of text with 15 characters per line including spaces and punctuation. For more informa- CATAWBA COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL 2011-2012 BASKETBALL SCHEDULES Nov. 29 – Newton-Conover at Grandview Nov. 29 – Mill Creek at Jacobs Fork Nov. 29 – H.M. Arndt at River Bend Dec. 1 – Northview at Newton-Conover Dec. 1 – River Bend at Mill Creek Dec. 6 – Newton-Conover at H.M. Arndt Dec. 6 – Maiden at River Bend Dec. 6 – Mill Creek at Grandview Dec. 8 – River Bend at Jacobs Fork Dec. 8 – Newton-Conover at Mill Creek Dec. 13 – Northview at River Bend Dec. 13 – Mill Creek at H.M. Arndt Dec. 13 – Maiden at Newton-Conover Dec. 15 – Mill Creek at Northview Dec. 15 – Grandview at River Bend Dec. 15 – Newton-Conover at Jacobs Fork Jan. 3 – Mill Creek at Maiden Jan. 3 – River Bend at Newton-Conover Jan. 5 – Grandview at Newton-Conover Jan. 5 – Jacobs Fork at Mill Creek Jan. 5 – River Bend at H.M. Arndt Jan. 10 – Newton-Conover at Northview Jan. 10 – Mill Creek at River Bend Jan. 12 – H.M. Arndt at Newton-Conover Jan. 12 – River Bend at Maiden Jan. 12 – Grandview at Mill Creek Jan. 17 – Jacobs Fork at River Bend Jan. 17 – Mill Creek at Newton-Conover Jan. 19 – River Bend at Northview Jan. 19 – H.M. Arndt at Mill Creek Jan. 19 – Newton-Conover at Maiden Jan. 26 – Northview at Mill Creek Jan. 26 – River Bend at Grandview Jan. 26 – Jacobs Fork at Newton-Conover Jan. 31 – Maiden at Mill Creek Jan. 31 – Newton-Conover at River Bend tion, contact Jim Woodruff at 241-3355 or by e-mail at [email protected]. At Shook Poultry We Offer Started Pullets, Baby Chicks & Chicken Feed. For more information on what we offer, give us a call, e-mail us, or visit our web site. Shook Poultry Is Located At 3177 Poultry Drive, Claremont Call: 828.459.0571 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.shookpoultry.net FLEMING’S HANDWASH & DETAIL SERVICE Call Us For A Truly Clean OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Vehicle, Inside And Out 5344 Hudson Chapel Road, Catawba At An Affordable Price! Call Targie Fleming At Drop Off Your Vehicle, 828.962.2702 Or We’ll Pick It Up! For references, call Brad Moser We Offer A Wide Variety Of at Medicap of Catawba at 241.2422 Services To Fit Any Budget! or Scott W. Ramsey at 320.8450 WE CLEAN AND DETAIL CARS, TRUCKS, VANS, CAMPERS, MOTORCYCLES & BOATS! 24 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Festival of Trees gala to be held on Nov. 13 HICKORY – Western Piedmont Symphony will host its annual Festival of Trees, and the festival begins with the Festival of Trees Gala on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m., at the Hickory Museum of Art. Gala tickets are now on sale for $45 per person. The gala offers an evening of food, wine, live music, dancing, and a silent auction. The Festival of Trees event will be open from Nov. 19 through Dec. 9 at the Arts & Science Center of Catawba Valley in Hickory. The one-of-kind decorated trees and wreaths have been sponsored by local businesses and organizations. For more information, call the WPS office at 324-8603 or visit www.wpsymphony.org. The Western Piedmont Symphony business offices are located on the SALT Block at 243 Third Avenue NE, Hickory. HCT to present ‘God of Carnage’ in November HICKORY – Hickory Community Theatre will open its latest production, “God of Carnage” in the Firemen’s Kitchen from Nov. 4-19. “God of Carnage” follows the attempts of two couples to deal with a playground fight between their young sons. The ‘civilized’ discussion turns into verbal brawl pitting couple against couple, husband against wife, and men against women. The play is R rated because of language. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased online at www.hct.org or by calling the box office at 328-2283. The box office phone hours are Tuesday-Friday from 12 to 5 p.m.. Hickory Community Theatre is located at 30 3rd Street NW in downtown Hickory. The Lettermen to perform at Newton-Conover Auditorium NEWTON – The Newton-Conover Auditorium in downtown Newton will host a Christmas performance by The Lettermen on Dec. 17. Tickets for these performances are $20-$35, and are currently on sale to the general public. The Lettermen perform a mix between the big band vocal groups such as the Modernaires, Pied Pipers and Mills Brothers, and the early R&B rock groups such as the Flamingos and the Platters. The Lettermen have scored over 25 chart hit singles, and have 32 consecutive albums, which charted in the Top 100 in the United States, four were certified gold This Newton-Conover Auditorium is located at 60 West 6th Street in Newton. For more information, contact the Newton-Conover Auditorium office at 828-464-8100, e-mail at [email protected] or visit www.newton-conoverauditorium.org. Main Library in Newton to host authors Newton – The Main Library in downtown Newton will host author, Tamra Wilson at 6:30 p.m., on Nov. 15. Wilson will read from her first story collection, “Dining with Robert Redford & Other Stories.” Wilson is on the library staff, has published more than 50 short stories in various literary journals and anthologies across the United States. Dr. Karen Cox, author of “Dreaming of Dixie,” will speak at 6:30 p.m., on Dec. 1. Cox is on the history faculty at University of North Carolina, Charlotte. She won the 2004 Julia Cherry Spruill Prize for best book in southern women’s history. June Martin of Maiden will discuss her book, “I Must Be out of my Mind to Have the Mind of Christ,” at 11 a.m., on Dec. 3 at the Maiden Branch Library. The events are free, and authors will have books available for sale and signing. The Main Library is located at 115 West C Street in Newton. For more information, call 465-8664. The Maiden Branch Library is located at 11 South A Avenue in Maiden. For more information, call 428-2712. Old Company Store to host live music in November CATAWBA – The Old Company Store at 101 North Main Street in downtown Catawba has announced it will host several live music events during the month of November. Music will be performed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the public is welcome to at- tend these free concerts. The deli will also be open during all performances. Scheduled to perform on Nov. 5 will be O’Cain; performing on Nov. 12 will be Walking By Faith; and performing on Nov. 19 will be Sentimental Journey. For more information, call Tom Young at the Old Company Store at 241-4200, e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.oldcompanystore.net. The Green Room to present ‘Steel Magnolias’ NEWTON – The Green Room Community Theatre will present “Steel Magnolias,” on the mainstage at the Old Post Office Playhouse at 10 South Main Avenue in downtown Newton in November. “Steel Magnolias” is the Southern classic by Robert Harling which features a group of Louisiana women sharing their triumphs and tragedies in and around Truvy’s beauty parlor. It was made into a movie in 1989 starring Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis and Julia Roberts. Performance dates are Nov. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 8 p.m., and November 6 and 13 at 3 p.m. Box office hours are 10 a.m. through 5:30 p.m., Wednesday through Friday throughout the run of the show. The box office number is 464-6128. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and $8 for children age 12 and under. This show is rated PG. For tickets, call the box office number listed above. For other questions, call the main office at 4646583, or visit www.the-green-room.org. 3018 Oak Street PO Box 351 Claremont, NC 28610 828.459.7192 e-mail: [email protected] The Claremont Courier 25 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net ACROSS 1. Supportive Yell 6. Deadly Snakes 10. Ago 14. Long-Handled Utensil 15. Shoe Part 16. Canyon Sound 17. Breathing 18. Land Map 19. Display 20. Confinement 22. Funnyman, _____ Martin 23. Big Dipper Participant 24. State Trooper’s Target 26. Lick 29. Yale Grads 31. Serving Of Corn 32. Anger 33. Monthly Payment, Maybe 34. Avaricious 38. Require 40. Needlefish 42. Humdrum Or Tedious 43. Natural Ability 46. Strong Wind 49. Rodent 50. At The Present 51. Level 52. _____ Lanka 53. Crew Cut 57. “Bus Stop” Author 59. Uncanny 60. Stint 65. Car Rental Agency 66. Butterfly’s Cousin 67. Direct 68. Trial 69. Actress, _____ Hathaway 70. Cubic Meter 71. Discerns 72. Garden Vegetables 73. Window Covering DOWN 1. Dressed 2. Healthy 3. Rewrite 4. Santa’s Aides 5. Go Back In 6. Striving For 7. Fly Alone 8. Schemes 9. Adjust 10. Bothered Or Irritated 11. Felt Pain 12. Push 13. _____ Of Strength 21. Myth 22. Char 25. Dowel 26. Dryer Fuzz 27. Region 28. Pare 30. Theater Platform 35. Makes Mistakes 36. Beloved 37. Abominable Snowman 39. Bridge And Crown Builders 41. Charms Or Enchants 44. Memo 45. Pair 47. Loaned 48. Consume 53. Accomplishments 54. Embankment 55. Start The Day 56. Apt 58. Third Closest Planet To Sun 61. Mt. _____; Sicilian Volcano 62. Thought 63. Geek 64. Maple Or Elm 66. Atlas Submitted by James Loftin. The November, 2011 Answer Key is published on Page 7. 26 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Western Piedmont Symphony to host concert on Nov. 12 HICKORY – The second concert of the 201112 Masterworks Series celebrates the return of Hickory native, Michael Hanley as piano soloist in George Gershwin’s “Concerto in F.” The concert also features five dances from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite.” The concert begins with Afro-British composer, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s “Danse Negre.” The concert will be held on Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m., in P.E. Monroe Auditorium on the campus of Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory. Following the concert the audience is cordially invited to an after concert reception. Contact the business office at 324-8603 for more information, or visit www.wpsymphony.org. Learn to play canasta in Claremont on Nov. 9 CLAREMONT – The Claremont Parks and Recreation Committee invites all area citizens who are interested in playing or learning to play the card game canasta to mark the second Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m., on your calendars. Beginning on Nov. 9, area citizen, Mary Larson will hold a monthly basic canasta card game at Claremont City Hall which is located at 3288 East Main Street in downtown Claremont. Snacks and drinks will be provided for all participants. For more information or questions, call Mary Larson at 459-1211. LRU to host Danielle Talamantes in concert HICKORY – The concert series at LenoirRhyne University will continue its 2011-2012 season with a free performance by soprano soloist Danielle Talamantes on Nov. 20 at 4 p.m. The concert will be held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church at 52 16th Avenue NW in Hickory. Talamantes is an opera star on the rise that completely commands her stage with body language that complements her vocal character portrayals. Her concert in Hickory will include works by Schubert, Granados, Leoncavallo, Respighi, and Duke Ellington. For more information on the concert series, contact the Lenoir-Rhyne University Office of Advancement at 328-7822. Horseshoe tournament to be held in Newton NEWTON – The Newton Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring a Turkey Toss horseshoe tournament on Nov. 19 at Westside/Jaycee Park in Newton starting at 10:30 a.m. This round-robin tournament Simplify your Holiday Shopping at PAGE COLLECTABLES Ladies Boutique Hours Of Operation Monday-Tuesday – 10AM-5PM Thursday-Saturday – 10AM-5PM Closed On Wednesday & Sunday 9258 SHERRILLS FORD ROAD TERRELL 478.3701 TERRELL HOUSE • • POST OFFICE HWY. 150 EXIT 36 • PAGE COLLECTABLES CHURCH • I-77 SHERRILLS FORD RD. Fall & Winter Merchandise Arriving Daily! Gift Certificates Available! is open to the public ages 18 and older. The entry fee for two-person teams is $10. Winners will receive a 10-pound turkey and trophies. Teams must register by Nov. 17 by 5 p.m. Entry forms are available at the Newton Parks and Recreation Department at 23 South Brady Avenue in Newton. For more information, contact Program Coordinator, Charles James at 695-4317. Service League to host kitchens and more tour HICKORY – The Service League of Hickory will present its sixth annual Kitchens and More Tour on Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event features tours of five local homes and includes tastings from local chefs, food demonstrations and local musical talent in each home. In addition, one-of-a-kind specialty household, art, and gift items and crafts will be available for purchase. Raffle tickets will also be available for a chance to win one of three pieces of furniture. Homes on the tour include: 506 3rd Avenue NW, Hickory; 417 6th Street NW, Hickory; 4437 3rd Street Lane NW, Hickory; 145 42nd Avenue Court NW, Hickory; 255 Charlotte Ann Lane, Bethlehem; and 4476 County Home Road, Conover. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at any area Lowes Foods. For more information or questions, visit www.serviceleaguehickory.org or call 324-0201. Area Lions Club makes announcements SHERRILLS FORD – The Sherrills Ford Lions Club will host it’s monthly breakfast fundraiser on Nov. 12 at the Lions Den. The breakfast consists of pancakes, bacon, sausage, eggs and biscuits and gravy and is served from 8 to 10 a.m. The cost is $6.50 per person, and children ages six and under eat for free. The Lions Club will also host a BBQ chicken fundraiser on Nov. 4 from 4 p.m. until, at the Lions Den. The meal includes BBQ chicken, red slaw, beans, roll and a dessert for $8. The Sherrills Ford Lions Den is located on Sherrills Ford Road behind Sherrills Ford Elementary School in Sherrills Ford. For more information, call Margaret Hale at 478-3701 or visit www.sherrillsfordnc.lionwap.org. CVCC seeks art work for art exhibit HICKORY – Catawba Valley Community College is currently seeking art work from alumni, students, faculty and staff members for consideration in the 2012 North Carolina Community College Art Exhibit. Three pieces of art will be selected to represent CVCC at the annual exhibit in Raleigh. All types of art work will be accepted, and the deadline is 5 p.m., on Nov. 18. Send samples to Brian Morris, at CVCC, by e-mail at [email protected]. Call 327-7000, ext. 4383 for more information. CLAREMONT AUTOMOTIVE & MUFFLER REPAIR • Oil Change • Tune Up • Exhaust 3239 West Main Street • Electrical • Cooling System Downtown Claremont • Welding • Brakes & Rotors HOURS OF OPERATION • Engine & Transmission Mon.-Fri. – 8AM-5PM • Car Stereo Installations Sat. – By Appointment Only We Now Offer A 24-Hour 459-2255 Towing Service. Call 461.2508 For More Information! WE ARE NOW A FULL SERVICE TIRE DEALER FOR Goodyear • GT Radial • Hankook • Kelly • Dunlop • Michelin • Nitto • Toyo • Remington • Cooper • Nokian BF Goodrich • Bridgestone • Uniroyal • Falken • Maxxis • Nexen • Doral • Eldorado • Hercules • Firestone • Trivant • Pirelli • Federal • Super Swampers • Nanking • Yokohama • Sumitomo • Starfire Compare Our Prices And Save! www.claremontautoandmufflerrepair.com The Claremont Courier 27 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Mexico is still a desirable travel destination TRAVEL TIPS M exico, long an alluring incentive travel destination, is in a crisis that is both misperceived and real. Struggling with drug violence at its border with the United States and other areas far from the country’s traditional tourist destinations, Mexico is suffering from losses in leisure, business, and incentive travel as a result. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico do not experience the levels of drug violence and crime reported in the border region and along major drug-trafficking routes some 1,000 miles away. While most victims of the violence are Mexicans linked to criminal activity, the security situation nevertheless is making some U.S. incentive groups cautious. In late April, the U.S. State Department issued a travel warning to Americans going to and living in Mexico. It was an expanded alert that included new areas in the country that are experiencing drug violence. Mexico’s tourism secretary, Gloria Guevara, has publicly acknowledged the challenges in dealing with the drug battle but stressed that tourist areas are far removed from the violence and remain safe for American travelers. She pointed out that Mexico is a large country of 2,500 municipalities and only 80 are affected by gang violence. Eli Gorin, CMP, vice president of global client relations for ABTS Convention Services, says: “This is an issue that has been going on for a very long time, and I know that the Mexico Tourist Board and regional tourism boards in the country are having to battle the negative perceptions. The State Department is doing its due diligence in warning travelers of what could possibly happen, not what will definitely happen. The warning itself even states, ‘There is no evidence that U.S. tourists have been targeted by criminal elements due to their citizenship.’ If it were a near-guarantee that U.S. citizens would be harmed by traveling to a specific region, I think there would be more than a warning involved.” Gorin stresses that meetings professionals need to do their own due diligence and adds that he has never had a bad experience with any program in Mexico. “We should educate ourselves on all the facts, both positive and negative, and make an informed decision from there, and once a decision has been made, educate all stakeholders involved,” he says. Reality Versus Perception Mexico tourism officials often point out WE MAKE EVERY VACATION A CELEBRATION! 1247 2nd Street NE Hickory 828.345.5000 Locally Owned And Operated that Cancun is 1,300 miles from the country’s northern border, where most of the drug violence is concentrated. It is the same distance from New York to Texas. But Gorin says that fact is being overshadowed by dramatic U.S. media news reports. Gorin, who has used Mexico often for meetings and incentives and speaks frequently at meetings industry events about risk management, notes: “Are there dangerous areas of Mexico? Absolutely. But imagine if the tables were turned, and the Mexican equivalent of the State Department issued travel warnings to specific states in the United States because of drug or gang violence. They would probably have to issue a warning not to travel to most states in the country because somewhere within each state, there is an area that visitors should avoid. Fighting the Fear Factor Although Joann Chmura, owner of Trumbull, CT-based Strategic Meetings and Events, knows that the affected areas are far away from traditional incentive locales, she fears that Mexico “is losing momentum” as an incentive destination option. She explains that right now, the country is a hard sell for her clients. “The key is to use a reliable destination management company,” she says, adding that she would place a group in Mexico in “a heartbeat.” Many incentive planners feel the same way and still have clients using Mexico. Bill Boyd, president and CEO of Dallasbased Sunbelt Motivation & Travel, says that among his incentive clients, “little fear is being expressed among participants.” His company recently took an incentive group of 253 to the Riviera Maya area. “Only two members of the group decided not to go,” Boyd notes. “The sponsoring company did, however, send a security officer to be with the group.” Boyd says his company will continue to sell Mexico because of its fantastic properties, the beauty of the Caribbean, the warmth of the Mexican people, and the power of the dollar there. But he notes that the level of appeal for the country “will certainly depend on how the press treats the drug and (security) news.” This article was submitted by the Travel Center of Hickory, which is located at 1247 2nd Street NE in Hickory. For more information or questions, call the Travel Center of Hickory at 345-5000, e-mail to [email protected] or marymcrary@ ymail.com, or visit their Web site at www.travelcenterofhickory.com. • CRUISES • HONEYMOONS • FAMILY VACATIONS • CORPORATE TRAVEL • INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL • AIRLINE TICKETS We Never Charge A Service Fee On Cruises or Vacation Packages! www.travelcenterofhickory.com THE DIVE SHOP Located at Exit 135 off of I-40 in Claremont Located across from Burger King and beside Potter’s Electronics. HOURS OF OPERATION MONDAY-FRIDAY – 9AM-6PM SATURDAY – 9AM-1PM 459-7440 www.ncdive.com WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF SCUBA DIVING EQUIPMENT, AND ARE AUTHORIZED DEALERS FOR: SHERWOOD • GENESIS • AKONA TUSA • ZEAGLE • IKELITE SEALIFE/REEFMASTER • NEOSPORT HENDERSON • OCEAN-REEF SCUBAMAX • SEADIVE • TRIDENT INNOVATIVE SCUBA • SEA-PEARLS PELICAN • PRINCETON TEC SPARE-AIR • SEA-SOFT • 500PSI JAWS PRODUCTS • SEA & SEA DIVE RITE • DOC’S PRO PLUGS WE SERVICE AND REPAIR MOST BRANDS OF DIVE GEAR, AND OFFER AIR AND NITROX FILLS, VIP AND HYDRO INSPECTIONS ON TANKS WE ALSO OFFER CLASSES AND SPECIAL TRIPS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Joy FM 88.1 exists to proclaim JESUS CHRIST to our listening area through Southern Gospel Music. The effective service to our community is to encourage the believer, show the way to the lost, and be a source of information and family entertainment. For more information visit us on-line at www.joyfm.org 28 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Redeemer Lutheran Church to host monthly breakfast CATAWBA – Redeemer Lutheran Church (LCMS) in downtown Catawba has announced that it will host its monthly commu- nity breakfast on Nov. 5 from 7 to 10 a.m. The food is prepared by the Men’s Club. Cost is $6 for a plate of eggs made to order, toast, grits, sausage, gravy and more with juice and coffee. Everyone is invited to dine in the Fellowship Hall or to take a plate home. Re- Claremont Lions Club hosts monthly meeting PHOTO BY CLAREMONT LIONS CLUB The Claremont Lions Club held their monthly meeting on Oct. 20 at the St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Family Life Center in downtown Claremont. The featured speakers for the meeting were David Allen (left), Safety Officer for City of Claremont Police Department and Sgt. Allen Long (right) who presented a safety program. During the Sept. 15 monthly meeting, Sherrie Miller was inducted into the Claremont Lions Club. The Claremont Lions Club meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., at the Family Life Center at St. Marks Lutheran Church in downtown Claremont. For more information or questions, call Mac Robbins at 459-1827 or Nancy Murray at 459-7306. Hannah’s Handbags & Accessories 4891 South Depot Street Downtown Claremont 828.459.9885 We carry a wide variety of handbags, jewelry, wallets & accessories, and new shipments arrive weekly. We offer a layaway program & gift certificates are also available. During the month of November bracelets are 10% off, or buy a purse and a wallet ($15 & up) and receive 10% off of the combo package. Take advantage of our new Pass It On Club. Make a purchase and receive a card to pass on to a potential customer. When that person makes a purchase they will receive 10% off their purchase, and you will receive 10% off your next purchase. Everyone who participates will be entered into a monthly drawing to win free merchandise. STOP BY AND CHECK OUT OUR RED RIBBON SURPRISE! WE WILL BE HOLDING A RAFFLE IN NOVEMBER TO WIN A $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE Tickets Cost $2 Per Ticket Or $5 For Three, And The Drawing Will Be Held On December 1. HOURS OF OPERATION WEDNESDAY – 11AM-4PM THURSDAY – 11AM-4PM FRIDAY – 11AM-4PM SATURDAY – 11AM-4PM deemer Lutheran Church is located at 200 South Main Street in downtown Catawba. Call the church office at 241-2371 or visit www. redeemercatawba.com for more information. Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church makes announcements CLAREMONT – Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church NACL in downtown Claremont has announced that 24 prayer shawls and 92 toboggans were blessed by Pastor Frye on Oct. 24. The shawls will be delivered to Hospice, and the toboggans will be delivered to Claremont Elementary and River Bend Middle Schools. Leftover toboggans will be donated to the homeless. These items were made by Joyce Childers, Bobbie Miller and Peggy Miller assisted by Analeah Hoke, Janie Edwards and Betty and the “Y” Crocheters. Fellowship time with coffee and doughnuts will be held on Nov. 6 at 9 a.m. Mt. Calvary received 24 adults and five children into the church family on Sept. 25. All new members will be honored on Nov. 6, with a congregational lunch after the morning worship. N/A meetings are held on Sunday and Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church is located at 3180 West Main Street in downtown Claremont. For more information, call 4597195 or e-mail to [email protected]. New Vision Church to host various events CONOVER – New Vision Church in Conover has opened the Lifetree Cafe on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. The cafe focuses on conversation about life and faith in a relaxed setting, refreshments and childcare is available. For more information, visit www.lifetreecafe. com. On Nov. 27, members of the church will decorate the church facilities for the Christmas season. Everyone is invited to take part in the festivities, and a dinner will be held as a part of the event. New Vision Church PCUSA is located at 502 Thornburg Drive NE in Conover. For more information, visit www. NewVisionConover.com or call 464-1330. Shiloh UMC to host a live nativity on Dec. 4 CLAREMONT – Shiloh United Methodist Church in Claremont has announced it will host a live nativity on Dec. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. The holiday themed event will feature a guided walking trail, hot chocolate and fellowship. A rain date has been scheduled for Dec. 11. Shiloh United Methodist Church is located at 1626 Shiloh Road in Claremont. For more information, call the church office at 2412003 or visit www.shiloh-umc-catawba.org. The Claremont Courier 29 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Olivet Baptist Church to host revival services CATAWBA – Olivet Baptist Church in Catawba has announced it will host four revival services from Nov. 13 through Nov. 16, featuring Stan Frye of Gateway International Ministries. The Nov. 13 service will begin at 6 p.m., and the Nov. 14-16 services will begin at 7 p.m. Child care will be provided at each service. The church will also host its Preschool and Children Christmas Musical on Dec. 18. Olivet Baptist Church is located at 7893 Monbo Road in Catawba. For more information or questions, call the church office at 478-3118, e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.obcnc.org. Center UMC to host fall bazaar on Nov. 5 CATAWBA – Center United Methodist Church in Catawba has announced it will host a fall bazaar on Nov. 5 from 8 a.m. until, at the church. Local artists will be featured at the event showcasing pottery, crochet, jewelry, needlepoint and woodworking crafts. The event will also feature handmade creations, Christmas decorations, baked goods, canned food and a variety of other crafts. Center UMC is located at 4945 Sherrills Ford Road in Catawba. For more information or questions, call the church office at 241-4122, e-mail to centerumcmail@ gmail.com, or visit www.centerumc.org. Luminary project planned for downtown Newton NEWTON – The Newton Appearance Commission will host its annual “A Time to Remember” luminary project, for deceased loved ones to be remembered. The project will feature memorial boards listing their names, as well as with a memorial tree at Yount Park, located at the corner of East “A” Street and College Avenue in downtown Newton. The project will begin during the annual “Light Up the Town” celebration on Nov. 27, and will run through Jan. 1. To add your loved one’s name, call Marcie Winkler at 695-4317, or e-mail to mwinkler@newtonnc. gov by Nov. 11. If the name has been displayed in the past, you do not need to call. Rehobeth UMC to host annual BBQ dinner TERRELL – Rehobeth United Methodist Church in Terrell has announced plans to host their 50th annual pork BBQ dinner on Nov. 12. The meal will be served family style with homemade desserts, slaw, sweet potatoes, apple sauce, yeast rolls and pickles. Everyone throughout the area is invited to attend, and take out plates will be available. Rehobeth UMC is located at 9297 Sherrills Ford Road in Terrell. For more information, call the church office at 478-2518, e-mail to [email protected] or visit http://rehobethumc.org. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church to host Thanksgiving dinner NEWTON – St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 720 West 13th Street in Newton will be sponsoring a community Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner will include turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, dinner roll and pie. The dinner is free of charge, and meals can be eaten at the church hall or delivered to the Newton, Conover, Claremont, Catawba, Maiden and Sherrill’s Ford areas. Reservations for meal deliveries can be made by calling 465-2878 by Nov. 21. St. Mark’s Preschool Currently Has Openings In The 3 and 4&5 Year Old Programs! Classes Are Held Tue.-Thur. For 3 Year Olds, & Mon.-Thur. For 4 & 5 Year Olds! Class Runs From 9:00 AM To 12:00 PM! The St. Mark’s Preschool is located at 3216 West Main Street in downtown Claremont. For information, call the preschool at 459-2873 or e-mail to [email protected]. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 3216 West Main Street Downtown Claremont 459.2161 www.stmarksclaremont.org Service Times: Sundays 8:15 AM & 10:30 AM For more information on St. Mark’s programs, call the church office, visit our Facebook page or visit our Web site for the monthly calendar which lists dates and times. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church announces events CLAREMONT – St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in downtown Claremont has announced it will continue to host One-derful Wednesday’s each Wednesday through Nov. 16 in the Family Life Center. Bible study will be held at 5:30 p.m., and a meal will be served at 6:15 p.m. Contact Susan Tucker at 459-2161, ext. 20 to register your attendance in the meal count. A $5 donation to cover meal costs is requested. All Saints Sunday will be held on Nov. 6, and everyone will have the opportunity to light a candle in remembrance of a loved on. On Nov. 16, a congregation meeting will be held after the 10:30 a.m., worship service to adopt a budget and elect congregation council members. The W-ELCA service will be held on Nov. 20. On Nov. 20 and Dec. 18, the church will host a food collection event for ECCCM and the church food pantry. All food donations can be dropped off at office or breezeway entrance. Property work day will be held on Nov. 5 from 8:30 a.m. until. The church is also collecting shoe- boxes filled with gifts for the annual Operation Christmas Child event through Nov. 16. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is located at 3216 West Main Street in downtown Claremont. For more information, call the church office at 4592161, e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.stmarksclaremont.org. November events announced for Catawba UMC CATAWBA – The ladies of Catawba UMC will lead the 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., worship services on Nov. 13. The guest speaker will be Karen Wilkerson from Highland UMC in Hickory. Wilkerson has been active in the UMW on local, district and conference levels, and is also a member of the Friends of Christ gospel singing group. Catawba UMC and Catawba Baptist Church will host a joint Thanksgiving service on Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. Catawba Baptist will host the service and Pastor Rich Tuttle of Catawba UMC will preach. Refreshments will be served and the community is invited. Catawba UMC is located at 207 East Central Avenue in Catawba. For more information, call the church office at 241-4868. Sunday School 10AM Sunday Worship 11AM Sunday Evening Worship 6PM Wednesday Worship 6:30PM East First Street Baptist Church 703 East First Street, Newton, NC 28658 Pastor Allen McCoy – 828-514-4548 30 The Claremont Courier November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net The power to live: Ephesian 5:15-20 FROM THE PULPIT BY REV. DENNIS J. RICHARDS, SR., D.MIN., D.D. I n the decade of the 1660’s, England passed through a period of unprecedented disasters. In 1665, a great plaque swept over London leaving nearly 70,000 people dead. A year later came the fire that destroyed 80 percent of London. Many believed that England would never recover from this double tragedy. Bishop Thomas Ken lived through these difficult days and endangered his own life while ministering to others. Out of these tragic days came a song which he wrote. We have sung it in our worship services and some sing it every Sunday. The Doxology, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host, praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.” How ironic that the Doxology was born out of disaster. Thanksgiving came from the ashes of tragedy. The fifth chapter of Ephesians is Exhortation. One piece of advice comes through the scripture as Paul warned the church: “Watch how you live, don’t get drunk on wine, be filled with the Spirit, speak to one another with Psalms, and hymns and spiritual songs.” Then comes one of the most startling things that Paul ever wrote: “Always giving thanks to God the Father, for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Vs. 20).” I want us to think of some of the words Paul used. In this great verse 20, Paul used three prepositions to introduce three propositions. 1. ALWAYS GIVING THANKS TO GOD OUR FATHER The One who receives our thanks is God who has become our Father by faith in Jesus Christ. In a “Peanuts” comic strip, Lucy and Charlie Brown are outside looking up into the night sky. Lucy is overwhelmed as she looks at the greatness and mysteries of the universe. In a rare moment of humility she confesses, “Even with all my awesome talents, Charlie Brown, I’m glad God is in charge of all of this.” God is in charge of all this. Lucy is right. The Bible says God cares. There is a God who holds all of this world in His hands, and holds each of us. To say God is in control and that God cares does not mean to say that everything that happens in this world today is good. None of us who has eyes to see and ears to hear can miss the sights and sounds of suffering. Even some of us in the church in the depths of our own darkness and pain have wondered, “Where is God now?” FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CLAREMONT Will Host THE CLAREMONT COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE NOVEMBER 20 AT 6:00 PM AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 4791 SOUTH DEPOT STREET, CLAREMONT REV. DENNIS J. RICHARDS, SR., D.MIN., D.D. FROM FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH INVITES EVERYONE TO WORSHIP TOGETHER AT THIS THANKSGIVING SERVICE. PARTICIPATING CHURCHES & PASTORS INCLUDE: REV. DR. PERRY MILLER FROM BETHLEHEM UMC WILL BE THE FEATURED SPEAKER REV. WESLEY R. FRYE FROM MT. CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH REV. DR. GARY S. HADDOCK FROM ST. MARK’S LUTHERAN CHURCH REV. MICHAEL TOLBERT FROM LIBERTY HILL BAPTIST CHURCH AND REV. DR. BILL HOLLAR FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE AT 459-7110 Many books have been written on that subject. When life caves in around us, what then? Life does sometimes cave in. The Christian life is not always a playground but mostly a battleground. So what does it mean to stand in the face of suffering and sadness, disappointment, and say, “God cares and God is still in control?” I believe Paul gave us a clue in one of the most powerful things he ever wrote. To the church in Rome he wrote, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).” 2. FOR EVERYTHING The second preposition that Paul used is “For.” The disciple of the Damascus Road made an amazing claim, “That we should give thanks for everything.” Look at what Paul did not say, “Feel thankful for everything.” Feelings are automatic. They are our first response to things. If you come to me after the service and say, “That is by far the worst sermon I’ve ever heard,” how do you think I’m going to feel? Thankful? If tomorrow morning I discover that my Explorer needs four new tires, do you think I’m going to feel grateful? We make a big mistake when we tell people not to feel a certain way. We all get angry or sad or happy, depending on what happens to us. What makes the difference is what we do with those feelings and how we act on them. Read Paul’s letters carefully. He had feelings. To the Corinthians, he opened his heart. “We do not want you to be uniformed, brothers about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life (II Corinthians 1:8).” What great feelings of sadness Paul recalled. We need to remember that he did not say that we should always feel thankful, but that we should always give thanks for everything. What does it mean to give thanks for everything? There are two times in all of our lives that are most difficult to give thanks. The first is when everything is going well. We take God for granted and even feel that our success is just a result of our own efforts. The second time when it is tough to be thankful is when things are going badly. Those are the times when we wonder if God has deserted us and like Paul, we may feel “under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.” What Paul wrote following these words about his struggle are such a key to understanding his view of suffering. “Indeed in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. This happened that we might not rely on ourselves RICHARDS but on God who raises the dead (I Corinthians 1:9).” Out of the depths of his difficulty, Paul said that he had learned to depend upon God. Walking through the valley of the shadow of death does not always make us better. It may make us bitter. It may sour our spirits and turns us off of God. Or, it may turn us to God in a new dependence and a new reliance on God our Father. 3. IN THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST This last preposition introduces the power. How do we give thanks to God for everything? Where do we find the strength? Paul wrote, “In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” We often end our prayers with words like, “In Jesus’ name.” That’s more than a formula. It is recognition that what connects us to God in prayer is the person of Christ. Prayer has no power apart from the person of Jesus Christ. So Paul did more than just exhort the Ephesians to give thanks. Paul wrote them that the power to a life of gratitude comes through the indwelling Christ. So, we live the life of thanks not based simply on what happens to us but rather on the unchanging One who is with us. Many of us have known the times when the rains came down, the streams overflowed and the winds blew. In those moments it was terribly difficult to be grateful. It would be impossible without the strength of Christ. “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The Rev. Dennis J. Richards, Sr., D., Min., D.D. is the Minister of First Baptist Church of Claremont, which is located at 4791 South Depot Street in Claremont. For more information, call the church office at 459-7110. First Baptist Church 4791 South Depot Street, Claremont 459-7110 Rev. Dennis J. Richards: Pastor, Doctor Of Ministry & Doctor Of Divinity Rev. Jerry Teague: Associate Pastor/Educational Director Sunday Schedule Sunday School – 9:45 AM Morning Worship – 11 AM Children’s Church – 11 AM Evening Worship – 6 PM Weekly Events Wednesday Night Prayer – 7 PM Monthly Events Sunday Prayer Breakfast – 8:30 AM Every Third Sunday Of The Month Plan To Worship With Us This Sunday! We Love The Lord, Each Other And We Love You! The Claremont Courier 31 November, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 11 • www.theclaremontcourier.net Bethlehem UMC makes announcements CLAREMONT – Bethlehem United Methodist Church in Claremont has announced the following events to take place during the next few months. Rev. Dr. Perry Miller will host a series of learning opportunities in November-December. These short term studies are open to anyone, and will be held in the Fellowship Center at 10 a.m., on Nov. 27, “Mary of Nazareth;” Dec. 4, “Joseph of Bethlehem;” Dec. 11, “Mary’s Visit to Elizabeth;” and Dec. 18, “From Nazareth to Bethlehem.” The senior citizens will meet at the Morris Center at 10:15 a.m., on Nov. 15. The seniors will have a meal, and see a movie called “The Note,” starting at 6:30 p.m. Cost to attend is $8, and reservations are needed by Nov. 6. The senior citizens will sponsor “Pandoras Box Wish List” for Christmas, and a list of needed items are posted on the bulletin board in the Morris Center. The senior citizens are also mailing DVDs of the worship services to our shut-ins. For more information on any of the senior citizen events, call Nell Wintzer at 241-2674. The Outreach Committee is collecting food and supplies for ECCCM and the Hickory CCM. The committee is still collecting wrapped snacks, which will be distributed to area hospitals. Hands at Work meet every Monday morning at 10 a.m. Contact Sandra Miller at 459-7205 for more information. The Bethlehem UMC Child Development Center will host a Port-A-Pit BBQ chicken fundraiser on Nov. 18 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can buy tickets in advance for $8 at the center from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday or call your order in. The meal Includes chicken, BBQ slaw, baked beans, roll and dessert. Orders of eight or more plates within the Conover-Claremont area will be delivered. For more information or to place an order, call 459-0086. All orders must be in by Nov. 17. Refreshments are served every Sunday at 9:30 a.m., followed by Sunday School at 9:45 a.m., and then the Sunday Worship Service at 11 a.m. Bethlehem United Methodist Church at 3214 Catawba Street in Claremont. For more information or questions, call the church office at 459-7480 or visit www.claremontbethlehem.com. First Baptist Church to host Thanksgiving service CLAREMONT – First Baptist Church of Claremont will host the Claremont Community Thanksgiving Service on Nov. 20 at 6 Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church NALC 3180 West Main Street, Claremont 828.459.7195 REV. WESLEY R. FRYE, PASTOR Sunday School - 9:30 AM Morning Worship - 10:30 AM Other Services By Announcement “Your Friendly Neighborhood Church” North American Lutheran Church BETHLEHEM United Methodist Church (828) 459-7480 Box 233 3214 Catawba Street Claremont, NC 28610 www.claremontbethlehem.com • Service at 11:00 am • Sunday School at 9:45 am • Programs for all ages Pastor: Rev. Dr. Perry Miller Child Development Center (828) 459-0086 p.m. The service will be held at First Baptist Church, and Rev. Dennis J. Richards, Sr., D. Min., D.D. invites all area residents to attend this service. Other area churches and pastors participating include; guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Perry Miller from Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Rev. Wesley Frye from Mt. Calva- ry Lutheran Church, Rev. Dr. Gary Haddock from St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Rev. Michael Tolbert from Liberty Hill Baptist Church, and Rev. Dr. Bill Hollar. First Baptist Church of Claremont is located at 4791 South Depot Street in Claremont. For more information or questions, call the church office at 459-7110. Embracing The Community For information about our services and programs call 464 5194 e-mail to bethanyuccoffice @aol.com 2952 BETHANY CHURCH RD. CLAREMONT, NC or visit www.bethany uccclaremont.org REV. COLLEEN SAMSON Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Adult Forum 9:30 AM Jesus For Kids 9:30 AM EVERY SUNDAY! Friendly, Fast Professional Service! FOUR AREA LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Brad Moser, R.Ph. 201 2nd Avenue SW, Catawba Phone: 241.2422 • Fax: 241.2422 E-Mail: [email protected] Hours Of Operation Mon.-Fri. – 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Sat. – 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Bob Busbee, R.Ph. 3319 East Main Street Claremont Phone: 459.2149 • Fax: 459.2140 E-Mail: [email protected] Hours Of Operation Mon.-Fri. – 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Sat. – 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM At your local Medicap Pharmacy®, we’ll always make time for you. We offer quality health care, service with a smile and a pharmacist and staff who knows you by name. NOW THAT’S A HEALTHY DOSE OF REALITY! Ron Harwell, R.Ph. 317 First Street East, Conover Phone: 464.4491 • Fax: 464.4495 E-Mail: [email protected] Hours Of Operation Mon.-Fri. – 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Sat. – 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM OUR SERVICES INCLUDE On-Line Refills • FREE Delivery • Herbals 24 Hour Drop Box • Greeting Cards Patient Counseling Services Medication Flavoring Compounding Services Drive-Thru Window (Conover & Newton Locations) And We Accept Medicare Billing Methods Melinda Travis, R.Ph. www.medicap.com 401 West A Street, Newton Phone: 466.1500 • Fax: 466.1502 E-Mail: [email protected] Hours Of Operation Mon.-Fri. – 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sat. – 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM If you are turning 65, we can help you choose the Medicare Part D plan that’s right for you!