I am a resident of Iredell County. I have garbage pick-up at my residence, but I take my recyclables to the central transfer station on Highway 115. A couple of weeks ago I saw the attendant emptying the plastic bag container into the household trash bin. I questioned the attendant about him dumping the can.
I was informed that Iredell County does not recycle plastic bags. I was shocked to learn about this. The trash can that he emptied is kept in the area with all of the other recycling bins. The can is blue and has the recycle logo on it. "Iredell County Recycles" is also on the can. "Plastic bags" is written on the lid with a white paint pen. I told the attendant that the can was misleading. I have been using the transfer station for months and assumed by the can and its location that Iredell County recycled these bags.
I took my plastic bags with me to Food Lion to recycle them. I returned to the transfer station again just a couple of days ago. I was emptying my cans and paper into the bins. Another gentleman was emptying his bags placing them into the same container I spoke about previously. I asked the man if he knew that the bags were not going to be recycled. He was under the impression that I was originally, that the bags were going to be recycled.
I hope that this letter is published so others can be informed of this situation. Maybe someone from the county will see this and take action in either removing the can or initiating a plastic bag recycling program for the county.
Cody McLain
Statesville
Friday, February 1, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Editorial: You have no say
It didn't take long for the pretenders to be separated from the true contenders in the race for what's still the most powerful position on earth.
With Super Tuesday now less than a week away, the once-crowded fields for the Democratic and Republican presidential nominations have been whittled down to four legitimate candidates.
Following Republican hopeful Rudy Giuliani's exit, Sen. John McCain and former Massachussetts Gov. Mitt Romney remain as the standard bearers for the GOP. On the Democratic side, Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama remain to slug it out after the departure of John Edwards.
All four are quality candidates, capable of serving as our chief executive and commander in chief.
Lost in the campaign rhetoric and the debates over faulty polling that have dominated this year's compressed primary season is the fact that millions of Democrats and Republicans across the country do not have a real voice in selecting their party's nominees.
Voters in seven early primary states, including sparsely populated Wyoming and Nevada, have reduced once-formidable candidates to also-rans in a matter of five weeks. And the primary season will be over for all practical purposes on Feb. 5, when voters in 22 states head to the polls for Super Tuesday.
You should be incensed. The shuffling of the primary dates has left North Carolina voters without a say in this important process. Even voters in American Samoa, which holds primaries on Feb. 5, can boast of helping select the nominees. Our primary on May 6 will be meaningless.
All voters should have an opportunity to participate in the nominating process. This will not happen until the leadership of both parties agrees that a national primary is what's best for our nation.
With Super Tuesday now less than a week away, the once-crowded fields for the Democratic and Republican presidential nominations have been whittled down to four legitimate candidates.
Following Republican hopeful Rudy Giuliani's exit, Sen. John McCain and former Massachussetts Gov. Mitt Romney remain as the standard bearers for the GOP. On the Democratic side, Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama remain to slug it out after the departure of John Edwards.
All four are quality candidates, capable of serving as our chief executive and commander in chief.
Lost in the campaign rhetoric and the debates over faulty polling that have dominated this year's compressed primary season is the fact that millions of Democrats and Republicans across the country do not have a real voice in selecting their party's nominees.
Voters in seven early primary states, including sparsely populated Wyoming and Nevada, have reduced once-formidable candidates to also-rans in a matter of five weeks. And the primary season will be over for all practical purposes on Feb. 5, when voters in 22 states head to the polls for Super Tuesday.
You should be incensed. The shuffling of the primary dates has left North Carolina voters without a say in this important process. Even voters in American Samoa, which holds primaries on Feb. 5, can boast of helping select the nominees. Our primary on May 6 will be meaningless.
All voters should have an opportunity to participate in the nominating process. This will not happen until the leadership of both parties agrees that a national primary is what's best for our nation.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Editorial: DSDC has done its part to save Depot
The Downtown Statesville Development Corporation's sole purpose is to play a leading role in the revitalization of the downtown district.
In these challenging times, that's a full-time job.
With the scant resources at its disposal, the agency shouldn't be sidetracked into spending its precious time and money on preserving a landmark that is not vital to that mission.
The Statesville Depot isn't in the downtown district.
While we applaud the DSDC for the important role it has played in perserving the Depot, now is a good time to pass that torch to someone with the passion and money to carry it forward.
That's the decision the DSDC's board of directors reached leading up to Monday's announcement that it hoped to sell the Depot and move its office downtown.
While some people who put in countless hours and donated thousands of dollars to save the Depot from teh wrecking ball more than a decade ago will undoubtedly criticize that decision, we believe it was the right decision for the DSDC, downtown and the Depot.
As new commercial developments pop up along the Interstate 77 corridor, creating more competition for downtown merchants, it will be more important than ever for the DSDC to remain focused on its central mission.
Executive Director Marin Tomlin and her volunteer board cannot do that from the isolation of Depot Hill.
DSDC has been a good steward of this public treasure for more than 10 years. We trust they will not turn the Depot over to someone who would deviate from that course.
In these challenging times, that's a full-time job.
With the scant resources at its disposal, the agency shouldn't be sidetracked into spending its precious time and money on preserving a landmark that is not vital to that mission.
The Statesville Depot isn't in the downtown district.
While we applaud the DSDC for the important role it has played in perserving the Depot, now is a good time to pass that torch to someone with the passion and money to carry it forward.
That's the decision the DSDC's board of directors reached leading up to Monday's announcement that it hoped to sell the Depot and move its office downtown.
While some people who put in countless hours and donated thousands of dollars to save the Depot from teh wrecking ball more than a decade ago will undoubtedly criticize that decision, we believe it was the right decision for the DSDC, downtown and the Depot.
As new commercial developments pop up along the Interstate 77 corridor, creating more competition for downtown merchants, it will be more important than ever for the DSDC to remain focused on its central mission.
Executive Director Marin Tomlin and her volunteer board cannot do that from the isolation of Depot Hill.
DSDC has been a good steward of this public treasure for more than 10 years. We trust they will not turn the Depot over to someone who would deviate from that course.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Santa deserved better from the R&L
One of Santa’s most-dedicated helpers in the Statesville area had a rough Christmas morning.
Our front-page story on Dec. 25 painted a less-than-flattering picture of the Signal Hill Mall Santa.
And, to hear him tell it, things have deteriorated ever since. He’s been ridiculed, mocked and even had his religious faith questioned because of the way he was portrayed in the article.
After spending some time talking with Santa and others involved in an incident at Signal Hill Mall and reviewing our coverage, I’ve concluded that we didn’t give Santa a fair shake. For that, I’m sorry.
In the article, a father who took issue with having to pay $5 to photograph his children on Santa’s lap complained, saying the mall had misled the public to believe the fee was a donation.
When he declined to make a donation, the father said, Santa and his head elf tried to force him to delete his photos and hand over the money.
Santa and the head elf, who was present for the incident, dispute the father’s account of what happened.
In the weeks that followed, the mall, its merchants association and Santa himself have faced scrutiny and criticism for this unfortunate incident.
After they contacted me, I met with Santa, the head elf and representatives of the mall and its merchants association. Then I began reviewing our work on this story.
I wasn’t at the mall when this incident took place so I don’t know firsthand what happened. As often is the case, our reporter wasn’t there either.
After we learned about the incident, our mission was to speak to all parties — and independent witnesses, if possible — and then give a fair and accurate account of what happened to the best of our ability.
Representatives of the mall and merchants association also feel like they got a bad rap over the donation. Any parent who can’t afford the $5 is still allowed to snap photos of their children, they said.
The donations help pay Santa’s salary and offset the costs of the Fourth of July fireworks display, karaoke contests and other events at the mall.
I’ve concluded that we missed the mark on this story. Although we interviewed numerous witnesses, the article that was published was largely one-sided. The father had an opportunity to air his grievances, but the mall Santa’s version of the events — that the father was loud and disruptive and that he did not chase him — was not adequately reported in the final story. (In hindsight, the accounts of the elf and others corroborated much of what Santa told us.)
For that, we deserve a lump of coal in our stocking.
By Mike Fuhrman
Our front-page story on Dec. 25 painted a less-than-flattering picture of the Signal Hill Mall Santa.
And, to hear him tell it, things have deteriorated ever since. He’s been ridiculed, mocked and even had his religious faith questioned because of the way he was portrayed in the article.
After spending some time talking with Santa and others involved in an incident at Signal Hill Mall and reviewing our coverage, I’ve concluded that we didn’t give Santa a fair shake. For that, I’m sorry.
In the article, a father who took issue with having to pay $5 to photograph his children on Santa’s lap complained, saying the mall had misled the public to believe the fee was a donation.
When he declined to make a donation, the father said, Santa and his head elf tried to force him to delete his photos and hand over the money.
Santa and the head elf, who was present for the incident, dispute the father’s account of what happened.
In the weeks that followed, the mall, its merchants association and Santa himself have faced scrutiny and criticism for this unfortunate incident.
After they contacted me, I met with Santa, the head elf and representatives of the mall and its merchants association. Then I began reviewing our work on this story.
I wasn’t at the mall when this incident took place so I don’t know firsthand what happened. As often is the case, our reporter wasn’t there either.
After we learned about the incident, our mission was to speak to all parties — and independent witnesses, if possible — and then give a fair and accurate account of what happened to the best of our ability.
Representatives of the mall and merchants association also feel like they got a bad rap over the donation. Any parent who can’t afford the $5 is still allowed to snap photos of their children, they said.
The donations help pay Santa’s salary and offset the costs of the Fourth of July fireworks display, karaoke contests and other events at the mall.
I’ve concluded that we missed the mark on this story. Although we interviewed numerous witnesses, the article that was published was largely one-sided. The father had an opportunity to air his grievances, but the mall Santa’s version of the events — that the father was loud and disruptive and that he did not chase him — was not adequately reported in the final story. (In hindsight, the accounts of the elf and others corroborated much of what Santa told us.)
For that, we deserve a lump of coal in our stocking.
By Mike Fuhrman
Letter of the Day: Proposed asphalt plant is a threat to nearby communities
For some time now, I have been sympathetically following the progress of Snow Creek area residents in resisting the construction of a biodiesel plant in their residential/agricultural community.
Imagine my surprise and consternation when I learned recently that my neighborhood is now faced with the re-establishment of an asphalt plant, dormant since 1994, less than a mile from my residence in Monticello Heights.
To compound the problem, the fate of a number of neighborhoods, Monticello Heights, Timberbrook and Audubon Acres to name only a few, is now in the hands of the Statesville City Council, and we’re not even in the city limits.
Make no mistake, Statesville residents, this plant, proposed to be rebuilt on Northside Drive just north of Interstate 40, is going to affect you as well. Studies of similar plants throughout North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee have shown a dramatic decrease in property values on surrounding properties and an attendant increase in air and groundwater pollution.
Asphalt plants are emitters of copious quantities of volatile organic compounds, such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, trichlorethylene, perchlorethylene, etc. All of these products are known or suspected carcinogens. Add arsenic to the list and you’ve got quite a challenging chemical threat to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods.
We can’t take the air we breathe for granted. Inform yourselves of the details and attend the Statesville City Council meeting Feb. 4 to make your opposition known.
Fred Coe
Statesville
Imagine my surprise and consternation when I learned recently that my neighborhood is now faced with the re-establishment of an asphalt plant, dormant since 1994, less than a mile from my residence in Monticello Heights.
To compound the problem, the fate of a number of neighborhoods, Monticello Heights, Timberbrook and Audubon Acres to name only a few, is now in the hands of the Statesville City Council, and we’re not even in the city limits.
Make no mistake, Statesville residents, this plant, proposed to be rebuilt on Northside Drive just north of Interstate 40, is going to affect you as well. Studies of similar plants throughout North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee have shown a dramatic decrease in property values on surrounding properties and an attendant increase in air and groundwater pollution.
Asphalt plants are emitters of copious quantities of volatile organic compounds, such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, trichlorethylene, perchlorethylene, etc. All of these products are known or suspected carcinogens. Add arsenic to the list and you’ve got quite a challenging chemical threat to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods.
We can’t take the air we breathe for granted. Inform yourselves of the details and attend the Statesville City Council meeting Feb. 4 to make your opposition known.
Fred Coe
Statesville
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Editorial: Biodiesel opponents should accept ruling
After being dealt a major setback in their effort to derail a proposed biodiesel plant on Snow Creek Road, Iredell Neighbors for Rural Life and the individual plaintiffs have two choices.
They can continue their challenge in the courts and help line the pockets of all the attorneys involved in this matter, or they can trust Phil and Mike McLain to be true to their word.
After Iredell Superior Court Judge Kim Taylor ruled Friday that the production of biodiesel fuel is a bona fide farm-use activity, clearing the way for the McLains to begin production, Phil McLain extended an olive branch to the folks who took him and the county to court.
"We will do everything we can to be good neighbors once we get it up and going," he said. "It is not going to be as bad as they think."
Given the bitter feelings that have been brewing for the past six months, that might be tough to accept for the plaintiffs in this case. Their concerns about their families' safety and their property values are legitimate and will be difficult to set aside.
The neighbors can be proud that they fought a good fight and, largely because of their efforts, the McLains will be limited to producing 500,000 gallons of biodiesel annually. That's significantly less than what they had sought and will dramatically reduce the number of tanker trucks traveling the rural roads in their neighborhood.
From that vantage point, the plaintiffs - and the rest of us - should consider the time, effort and money they expended in this lawsuit have been worthwhile.
They can continue their challenge in the courts and help line the pockets of all the attorneys involved in this matter, or they can trust Phil and Mike McLain to be true to their word.
After Iredell Superior Court Judge Kim Taylor ruled Friday that the production of biodiesel fuel is a bona fide farm-use activity, clearing the way for the McLains to begin production, Phil McLain extended an olive branch to the folks who took him and the county to court.
"We will do everything we can to be good neighbors once we get it up and going," he said. "It is not going to be as bad as they think."
Given the bitter feelings that have been brewing for the past six months, that might be tough to accept for the plaintiffs in this case. Their concerns about their families' safety and their property values are legitimate and will be difficult to set aside.
The neighbors can be proud that they fought a good fight and, largely because of their efforts, the McLains will be limited to producing 500,000 gallons of biodiesel annually. That's significantly less than what they had sought and will dramatically reduce the number of tanker trucks traveling the rural roads in their neighborhood.
From that vantage point, the plaintiffs - and the rest of us - should consider the time, effort and money they expended in this lawsuit have been worthwhile.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Letter of the Day: The case for a skate park
I want to share what is perhaps a unique perspective on the skating issue. Our family moved here from Naples, Fla., in the weeks following Hurricane Katrina. We had the unusual opportunity to choose anywhere to live. After months of research and looking, we felt as though we had arrived home the minute we drove into Statesville. We were drawn by many reasons, but mostly because of the combination of the ambiance of a smaller historic town and a family-friendly environment.
As a Florida native, I moved from West Palm Beach to Naples in 1996. At that time, Naples was experiencing a 23 percent gain in population and was rated in the "Top 10 Fastest-Growing Metropolitan Areas," according to the U.S. Department of Commerce 1997 Population Profile of the U.S. At the same time, it was losing its place in the commercial life of the county.
A shopping mall and a Wal-Mart had been built outside the downtown area. Consequently, most of the retail customers had left. Shortly after moving to Naples, I took a job with an interior designer who on Fifth Avenue, which is like Broad Street is to us. I immediately noticed the people who did shop and work on Fifth Avenue frequently had to share the sidewalks and roadways with skaters.
They were ramping down the steps, riding off the hand rails and jumping off the curbs. Naples police tried to keep it at bay, but with the ever-increasing population, it became taxing to their resources.
Naples took what I thought was a radical step: They planned to revitalize the downtown area by converting the empty second-floor spaces to upscale flats, addressing parking issues, adding a community theater and an inn and opening a skate park at a nearby recreation center. I was skeptical about the redevelopment plans for Fifth Avenue, but I was flat-out against the skate park. Honestly, I didn’t like the skaters and thought it was a waste of money and tax dollars to give them a place of their own.
The skate park was installed very early in the redevelopment plan. On March 3, 2007, Naples Daily News reported on the grand re-opening of Velocity Skate Park stating, "Created in 1997, the park was first known as Sanctuary and lived up to its name as it was a haven for skateboarders and BMX bikers to practice their sports of choice without bothering residents or business owners."
Sure enough, the skaters left the downtown streets and sidewalks and the construction began. We lived through the noisy, messy changes and began seeing great things happening. High-profile attorneys moved in, galleries opened, chic eateries set up cafe spots, and the downtown came to life again. Additionally, I drove by the skate park nearly every day and noticed the park was very busy having taken on a life of its own.
Eventually, I began to see the real benefits to Naples and to the community. Because of the foresight of the city planners, Naples is not only a top travel destination, but it is also a great community in which to live and raise children. Since 1997, Naples has upgraded existing skate parks, added additional skate parks, an after-school program, a pro shop, and a BMX park. All are a positive investment in the community.
I hope our wonderful community can draw upon some of the strengths and successes of another community that has had to face the "what do we do with the skaters?" and "how can we breathe new life into our downtown" issues. Because of the positive results that were achieved in Naples, I can honestly and enthusiastically say that I am for building an accessible, affordable skate park in Statesville. This is a wise investment in our community and our quality of life.
Cynthia Kelly
Statesville
As a Florida native, I moved from West Palm Beach to Naples in 1996. At that time, Naples was experiencing a 23 percent gain in population and was rated in the "Top 10 Fastest-Growing Metropolitan Areas," according to the U.S. Department of Commerce 1997 Population Profile of the U.S. At the same time, it was losing its place in the commercial life of the county.
A shopping mall and a Wal-Mart had been built outside the downtown area. Consequently, most of the retail customers had left. Shortly after moving to Naples, I took a job with an interior designer who on Fifth Avenue, which is like Broad Street is to us. I immediately noticed the people who did shop and work on Fifth Avenue frequently had to share the sidewalks and roadways with skaters.
They were ramping down the steps, riding off the hand rails and jumping off the curbs. Naples police tried to keep it at bay, but with the ever-increasing population, it became taxing to their resources.
Naples took what I thought was a radical step: They planned to revitalize the downtown area by converting the empty second-floor spaces to upscale flats, addressing parking issues, adding a community theater and an inn and opening a skate park at a nearby recreation center. I was skeptical about the redevelopment plans for Fifth Avenue, but I was flat-out against the skate park. Honestly, I didn’t like the skaters and thought it was a waste of money and tax dollars to give them a place of their own.
The skate park was installed very early in the redevelopment plan. On March 3, 2007, Naples Daily News reported on the grand re-opening of Velocity Skate Park stating, "Created in 1997, the park was first known as Sanctuary and lived up to its name as it was a haven for skateboarders and BMX bikers to practice their sports of choice without bothering residents or business owners."
Sure enough, the skaters left the downtown streets and sidewalks and the construction began. We lived through the noisy, messy changes and began seeing great things happening. High-profile attorneys moved in, galleries opened, chic eateries set up cafe spots, and the downtown came to life again. Additionally, I drove by the skate park nearly every day and noticed the park was very busy having taken on a life of its own.
Eventually, I began to see the real benefits to Naples and to the community. Because of the foresight of the city planners, Naples is not only a top travel destination, but it is also a great community in which to live and raise children. Since 1997, Naples has upgraded existing skate parks, added additional skate parks, an after-school program, a pro shop, and a BMX park. All are a positive investment in the community.
I hope our wonderful community can draw upon some of the strengths and successes of another community that has had to face the "what do we do with the skaters?" and "how can we breathe new life into our downtown" issues. Because of the positive results that were achieved in Naples, I can honestly and enthusiastically say that I am for building an accessible, affordable skate park in Statesville. This is a wise investment in our community and our quality of life.
Cynthia Kelly
Statesville
Letter of the Day: City Council has insulted group of selfless, dedicated workers
This is in response to the article in Saturday’s R&L titled "Pay plan neglects low-rank workers," regarding Statesville’s new pay plan.
First, let me say thank you to Councilman "Jap" Johnson for standing up for the firefighters. As the wife of a Statesville firefighter, I know they appreciate it, as do I.
The other council members should explain how they can give everyone else in the city a pay raise and overlook a specific group of individuals and say it has nothing to do with how important their positions are.
These guys put their lives on the line every day and think nothing of it. Being a firefighter is a calling. It’s not a job for these guys every third day. The majority of them are volunteers at their home departments and also work at paid county departments on their days off.
They have to do this to make a decent living for their families. But it’s what they love and live for, so they keep on doing it. I suppose the city council realizes it doesn’t matter what they pay the firefighters because they’ll keep on applying.
Just because you have the people applying doesn’t mean the positions should not be adequately compensated for training, time away from family and dangers involved.
When it comes down to it, it doesn’t matter what you pay the firefighters, they will be there no matter what. When anyone needs help, they’ll answer the call, because that’s what they’ve been called to do.
They’ve already proven themselves as valuable city employees. Don’t disrespect these guys and all they’ve done for the city by "altering the new pay plan" as you see fit.
I urge all who live within the city to think about this the next time you vote for your council seats. Please elect officials who will keep our public servants’ best interests in mind, because these employees are looking out for you and your home every day.
Jennifer Russell
Mt. Ulla
First, let me say thank you to Councilman "Jap" Johnson for standing up for the firefighters. As the wife of a Statesville firefighter, I know they appreciate it, as do I.
The other council members should explain how they can give everyone else in the city a pay raise and overlook a specific group of individuals and say it has nothing to do with how important their positions are.
These guys put their lives on the line every day and think nothing of it. Being a firefighter is a calling. It’s not a job for these guys every third day. The majority of them are volunteers at their home departments and also work at paid county departments on their days off.
They have to do this to make a decent living for their families. But it’s what they love and live for, so they keep on doing it. I suppose the city council realizes it doesn’t matter what they pay the firefighters because they’ll keep on applying.
Just because you have the people applying doesn’t mean the positions should not be adequately compensated for training, time away from family and dangers involved.
When it comes down to it, it doesn’t matter what you pay the firefighters, they will be there no matter what. When anyone needs help, they’ll answer the call, because that’s what they’ve been called to do.
They’ve already proven themselves as valuable city employees. Don’t disrespect these guys and all they’ve done for the city by "altering the new pay plan" as you see fit.
I urge all who live within the city to think about this the next time you vote for your council seats. Please elect officials who will keep our public servants’ best interests in mind, because these employees are looking out for you and your home every day.
Jennifer Russell
Mt. Ulla
Editorial: City Council faces tough call on plant
For all the talk and hand-wringing about a global recession, there’s no reason to believe the explosive residential and retail growth occurring in our region is anything but a precursor of bigger things to come.
While this growth will be welcomed by many, it will also challenge those in elected positions to balance what’s best for the community with what’s best for municipal and county coffers.
Exhibit A for this argument was and will likely continue to be the ruckus over the biodiesel plant that McLain Farms owners want to operate off rural Snow Creek Road.
While the legal challenge to that proposal could be resolved today in Iredell County Superior Court, Exhibit B is preparing to take center stage before the Statesville City Council.
Maymead Inc. wants to build an asphalt plant off Northside Drive. The company, which owns another plant off Buffalo Shoals Road, contends regional demand for asphalt is the driving force behind the proposal. The site was previously used for the same purpose.
Neighbors, who argue the proposed asphalt plant will be detrimental to their health and quality of life, don’t want any part of it.
Equipped with the city planning board’s recommendation for approval, the City Council will decide whether to grant Maymead a special-use permit for the project next month.
The council’s decision in this matter will be the latest indicator of how much clout the people have in these controversial land-use matters. What’s clear is that Statesville cannot embrace rampant growth with both arms and hold onto its small-town identity.
While this growth will be welcomed by many, it will also challenge those in elected positions to balance what’s best for the community with what’s best for municipal and county coffers.
Exhibit A for this argument was and will likely continue to be the ruckus over the biodiesel plant that McLain Farms owners want to operate off rural Snow Creek Road.
While the legal challenge to that proposal could be resolved today in Iredell County Superior Court, Exhibit B is preparing to take center stage before the Statesville City Council.
Maymead Inc. wants to build an asphalt plant off Northside Drive. The company, which owns another plant off Buffalo Shoals Road, contends regional demand for asphalt is the driving force behind the proposal. The site was previously used for the same purpose.
Neighbors, who argue the proposed asphalt plant will be detrimental to their health and quality of life, don’t want any part of it.
Equipped with the city planning board’s recommendation for approval, the City Council will decide whether to grant Maymead a special-use permit for the project next month.
The council’s decision in this matter will be the latest indicator of how much clout the people have in these controversial land-use matters. What’s clear is that Statesville cannot embrace rampant growth with both arms and hold onto its small-town identity.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Letter of the Day: Spreading rumors about Obama is an underhanded trick
Jim Freeland’s letter about presidential hopefuls is the opening round of dirty politics confronting Barack Obama. Freeland uses such phrases and words as "believed to be" to mask outright lies about a candidate with a strange name and dark skin. Freeland is planting seeds of rejection of a viable candidate among less-informed citizens. I heard the same urban myths while visiting in New Jersey recently. Evidence can be found on the Internet to refute these allegations.
It is no longer socially acceptable to reject people of color, but fear can be stirred with references to "Muslim radical" and "Koran."
Please! We will fall from within only if we succumb to lies and dirty tricks.
Billie Bourgeois
Mooresville
It is no longer socially acceptable to reject people of color, but fear can be stirred with references to "Muslim radical" and "Koran."
Please! We will fall from within only if we succumb to lies and dirty tricks.
Billie Bourgeois
Mooresville
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Editorial: Making a difference
If Martin Luther King Jr. had been alive to see the "unity" in our community this last week, we think he would have been proud.
Between the annual breakfast, Make a Difference Day at Dove House, the celebration at Mitchell Community College and other events at the Statesville Civic Center and local churches, it’s evident the dream was in the hearts of people countywide.
To all those who read something about MLK and the civil rights movement, took time to think about the state of race relations in our community and in our nation, we say thank you.
To all the volunteers who made sure speakers knew how to get to the podium, food made it to the table and King’s message resounded in banquet halls and open streets, we say thank you.
To all those brave enough to give testimony to living the dream, whether it’s standing up for your rights or the rights of your neighbors or simply seeing someone as a person, not as a color, we say thank you.
And to all those who make an effort to keep the dream going long after Martin Luther King Jr. Day is over, we commend you
Between the annual breakfast, Make a Difference Day at Dove House, the celebration at Mitchell Community College and other events at the Statesville Civic Center and local churches, it’s evident the dream was in the hearts of people countywide.
To all those who read something about MLK and the civil rights movement, took time to think about the state of race relations in our community and in our nation, we say thank you.
To all the volunteers who made sure speakers knew how to get to the podium, food made it to the table and King’s message resounded in banquet halls and open streets, we say thank you.
To all those brave enough to give testimony to living the dream, whether it’s standing up for your rights or the rights of your neighbors or simply seeing someone as a person, not as a color, we say thank you.
And to all those who make an effort to keep the dream going long after Martin Luther King Jr. Day is over, we commend you
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Letter of the Day: Troutman growth isn’t doing anything but making a mess
I’m not sure who is welcoming the development at Exit 42, but my best guess is that they don’t live on Houston Road, Ostwalt-Amity Road or Flower House Loop.
Some mornings, it takes 5-10 minutes to turn out of these roads. I would like to know what genuises are responsible for all of this development with no traffic lights?
I also don’t welcome the way the dump trucks pull out of the mud pit on Houston Road right in front of people.
I would just as soon drive the extra 5-10 miles to Walmart than have to deal with the cluster that Troutman has become.
When will traffic lights be installed? When someone is killed at one of these roads?
Oh, I forgot, that only warrants a "study" and a flashing light, like the one to be installed at Triplett Road.
Because we all know a flashing light will make it so much easier to pull out onto a major highway!
Tracy Brown
Barium Springs
Some mornings, it takes 5-10 minutes to turn out of these roads. I would like to know what genuises are responsible for all of this development with no traffic lights?
I also don’t welcome the way the dump trucks pull out of the mud pit on Houston Road right in front of people.
I would just as soon drive the extra 5-10 miles to Walmart than have to deal with the cluster that Troutman has become.
When will traffic lights be installed? When someone is killed at one of these roads?
Oh, I forgot, that only warrants a "study" and a flashing light, like the one to be installed at Triplett Road.
Because we all know a flashing light will make it so much easier to pull out onto a major highway!
Tracy Brown
Barium Springs
Monday, January 21, 2008
Letter of the Day: Statesville shops, residents need to respect handicapped
In response to Mr. Henry Odell Williams’ letter about there being so many unfriendly wheelchair businesses in Statesville, I totally agree.
I am also in a wheelchair with a spinal cord injury due to a gunshot wound from which I am now a paraplegic.
Before I was injured, I never paid any attention to handicapped accessibilities. Most people don’t until they have to use them.
There are certain guidelines you go by when making wheelchair ramps, and there are some ramps in front of businesses that are so steep, it makes it really hard to get up it in a manual chair by yourself.
Some businesses are so full of merchandise it’s almost impossible to get around in a wheelchair, and then they have stuff on tables set up in the middle of the aisles, which makes them too narrow to get through.
There are medical offices with waiting areas that are so small there’s hardly any room for a wheelchair. All major stores and businesses should have an automatic door. Also, there needs to be more handicapped parking spaces uptown and especially out at Crossroads, especially in front of Wal-Mart.
There’s not but three spaces in front of Wal-Mart that are wide enough for a van with a ramp that comes out on the side.
There would be more available spaces if all these people who are not handicapped would stop parking in them.
Wheelchair-bound people’s lives are hard and challenging enough without having them made more difficult when they go out into society.
Every business is supposed to be handicapped-accessible, but they are not.
The city needs to take a good look at the accessibilities in Statesville because there are so many improvements that need to be done.
Sherry Reep
Statesville
I am also in a wheelchair with a spinal cord injury due to a gunshot wound from which I am now a paraplegic.
Before I was injured, I never paid any attention to handicapped accessibilities. Most people don’t until they have to use them.
There are certain guidelines you go by when making wheelchair ramps, and there are some ramps in front of businesses that are so steep, it makes it really hard to get up it in a manual chair by yourself.
Some businesses are so full of merchandise it’s almost impossible to get around in a wheelchair, and then they have stuff on tables set up in the middle of the aisles, which makes them too narrow to get through.
There are medical offices with waiting areas that are so small there’s hardly any room for a wheelchair. All major stores and businesses should have an automatic door. Also, there needs to be more handicapped parking spaces uptown and especially out at Crossroads, especially in front of Wal-Mart.
There’s not but three spaces in front of Wal-Mart that are wide enough for a van with a ramp that comes out on the side.
There would be more available spaces if all these people who are not handicapped would stop parking in them.
Wheelchair-bound people’s lives are hard and challenging enough without having them made more difficult when they go out into society.
Every business is supposed to be handicapped-accessible, but they are not.
The city needs to take a good look at the accessibilities in Statesville because there are so many improvements that need to be done.
Sherry Reep
Statesville
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Letter of the Day: Surrendering this war will have grave and lasting consequences
As I read a recent letter in the R&L, I was amazed that so many people just don’t get it. I don’t know if they are living in a fantasy world or blinded by partisan politics, or just don’t know any better. They seem to think we can pull our troops out of the Middle East, bring them home and everything will be hunky-dory and we will live happily ever after.
This is not a war like any other. We are not fighting a nation, we are fighting the forces of evil, and it will continue until Jesus returns. If we ever do turn tail, pull our troops out of Iraq and Afghanistan and leave those people at the mercy of the Iranians, the Taliban and the extremist Muslims, there would be a blood bath like we have never seen.
Do we have no mercy? No people anywhere in the world would ever have any respect or fear of the United States ever again. The war would not stop, just change locations from there to here. If you think 9-11 was bad, just wait. That will look like a Sunday school picnic compared to what we will see in the future.
The moment we show any sign of weakness, nations all over the world would jump on us like a chicken on a June bug. And what other nation in the whole world would come to our defense? But some believe that we are leaving too many men and women over there. I guess one life is too many.
According to a survey I read recently, more young people are dying on college campuses of binge drinking than have been killed in the war. Where are the protesters?
Our troops are giving their lives so you and I can live free, write letters of protest, go to the polls and elect our leaders, worship or not worship as we please, and enjoy all the good things we are so blessed in America to have.
If you think you have problems in this country, save up your money and move to any other nation in the world. It also amazes me that the same people who seem to be so concerned about our soldiers being killed, think it is just fine to kill 1.5 million of our most innocent citizens, unborn babies.
I have people say that this war is costing us too much money.
How much is it worth to you to live in a free country in dollars? How much is it worth to go to bed at night and feel safe without someone coming in and kidnapping or killing your children, raping your wife, placing a gun to your head and blowing your brains out? How much is it worth to have a job to go to each day, bring home a paycheck on Friday to feed and clothe your family and buy all the toys we think we need?
Think about it! Far more money is spent on gambling and playing the so called "Education Lottery," on beer, liquor, and tobacco, than is being spent on the war. These things are responsible for many more deaths also. Where are the protesters?
People around the world hate Americans for these reasons: because we are free and because of the God we serve. They hate the name of Jesus and they hate that God blessed American and made her strong. Psalm 33:12 says, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." He has blessed America more than any other nation that ever existed. He has fought our battles and given us victory every time except in Korea and Vietnam, where we did not trust God for victory.
If we elect people like Sens. Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama, or anyone else and put our trust in them instead of Almighty God and continue to allow the ACLU to make our laws and turn our nation away from God the way we have been doing for the past few years, God will lift his hand off America and say, have at it, do your own thing. (Deut. 28: 1-38.)
Take a look at history and you will see what happened to the children of Israel and every other nation through the years. "It’s not too late yet." (2 Ch 7:14).
Lathan Ostwalt
Statesville
This is not a war like any other. We are not fighting a nation, we are fighting the forces of evil, and it will continue until Jesus returns. If we ever do turn tail, pull our troops out of Iraq and Afghanistan and leave those people at the mercy of the Iranians, the Taliban and the extremist Muslims, there would be a blood bath like we have never seen.
Do we have no mercy? No people anywhere in the world would ever have any respect or fear of the United States ever again. The war would not stop, just change locations from there to here. If you think 9-11 was bad, just wait. That will look like a Sunday school picnic compared to what we will see in the future.
The moment we show any sign of weakness, nations all over the world would jump on us like a chicken on a June bug. And what other nation in the whole world would come to our defense? But some believe that we are leaving too many men and women over there. I guess one life is too many.
According to a survey I read recently, more young people are dying on college campuses of binge drinking than have been killed in the war. Where are the protesters?
Our troops are giving their lives so you and I can live free, write letters of protest, go to the polls and elect our leaders, worship or not worship as we please, and enjoy all the good things we are so blessed in America to have.
If you think you have problems in this country, save up your money and move to any other nation in the world. It also amazes me that the same people who seem to be so concerned about our soldiers being killed, think it is just fine to kill 1.5 million of our most innocent citizens, unborn babies.
I have people say that this war is costing us too much money.
How much is it worth to you to live in a free country in dollars? How much is it worth to go to bed at night and feel safe without someone coming in and kidnapping or killing your children, raping your wife, placing a gun to your head and blowing your brains out? How much is it worth to have a job to go to each day, bring home a paycheck on Friday to feed and clothe your family and buy all the toys we think we need?
Think about it! Far more money is spent on gambling and playing the so called "Education Lottery," on beer, liquor, and tobacco, than is being spent on the war. These things are responsible for many more deaths also. Where are the protesters?
People around the world hate Americans for these reasons: because we are free and because of the God we serve. They hate the name of Jesus and they hate that God blessed American and made her strong. Psalm 33:12 says, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." He has blessed America more than any other nation that ever existed. He has fought our battles and given us victory every time except in Korea and Vietnam, where we did not trust God for victory.
If we elect people like Sens. Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama, or anyone else and put our trust in them instead of Almighty God and continue to allow the ACLU to make our laws and turn our nation away from God the way we have been doing for the past few years, God will lift his hand off America and say, have at it, do your own thing. (Deut. 28: 1-38.)
Take a look at history and you will see what happened to the children of Israel and every other nation through the years. "It’s not too late yet." (2 Ch 7:14).
Lathan Ostwalt
Statesville
Friday, January 18, 2008
Letter of the Day: City not responsible for building park
I think it’s wrong to expect the city to build a skateboarding park.
If the parents want it, let them build it. In today’s world, we expect too many things to be done for us. When my son wanted to ride Go Karts, I didn’t expect the city to pay for it, nor did I expect the city to pay for his renting a gym to play basketball, nor did I expect the city to furnish his art supplies when he wanted to draw and paint.
I, as a single mother, paid for it all. I paid for college without a dime of help. I think these days we expect too much to be given to our children, and I don’t think that’s a good example for them.
Remember when it became illegal to cruise? I had a business at that time, and when cruising was stopped, everyone decided it was OK to park in the business parking lots.
Every day, we came into work to find trash and broken bottles in our lot and also some thrown on top of the building. When one of our employees went out to ask a car to move, they swerved their car at her.
Yet when we posted our lot, the parents complained the poor kids had nowhere to park and talk. Parents, your kids’ entertainment and activities are your problems, not the city of Statesville’s.
It’s ridiculous to expect the city to pay for a park. The first time one of the kids were hurt, someone would be suing. The businesses of Statesville shouldn’t have to keep paying for damage caused by skateboarders.
It’s against the law to trespass on private and posted property. Do you really want your kids breaking the law? What else are we going to expect the city to do? Furnish horses for riding, cars for those kids wanting to drive? A free skating ring? Sky diving? Free flying licenses?
How about free dance classes? I have a granddaughter who would love that. Come on parents — let’s raise our own kids and not expect the City of Statesville to do it for us.
Peggy Hill
Mooresville
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Letter of the Day: Obama’s experience, not faith background, is questionable
I want to insert my views regarding recent comments in a letter on the R&L’s opinion page about Sen. Barack Obama. I hope folks will think long and hard before they select their choice for their party’s presidential candidate.
I am concerned that, as usual, folks will ignore the better reasons to support a candidate, such as experience, previous contributions to the American people, etc.
I feel that folks are supporting Sen. Obama because of his charm, good looks and personality; a lot of the same reasons they voted for George W. Bush, whether they admit it or not.
In my opinion, these are not great reasons to vote for a president.
I am concerned about Obama’s lack of experience. I am concerned about his previous use of marijuana and cocaine. This shows a lack of judgment and morals on his part.
I am concerned more with his lack of experience. Also, I am a former resident of Illinois who still has family there, who report they aren’t voting for him because "he ain’t done nothing for us here."
I do like the fact that he has a Muslim father, because it may help dealing with Iran and Iraq.
I also appreciate the fact that he is not running on his religion (at this time he attends a Christian church).
I hate when some candidates use their religion to gain votes. Religion should be up there with charm, good looks and charisma as reasons we should not vote for a candidate.
If those qualities are all it takes, let’s go to Hollywood for our next presidential candidate. Surely someone there attends church regularly who could be talked into being a candidate.
I have not decided who I will vote for. I am just happy it is election time.
It seems it has been a long time coming.
Patricia Perkins
Harmony
I am concerned that, as usual, folks will ignore the better reasons to support a candidate, such as experience, previous contributions to the American people, etc.
I feel that folks are supporting Sen. Obama because of his charm, good looks and personality; a lot of the same reasons they voted for George W. Bush, whether they admit it or not.
In my opinion, these are not great reasons to vote for a president.
I am concerned about Obama’s lack of experience. I am concerned about his previous use of marijuana and cocaine. This shows a lack of judgment and morals on his part.
I am concerned more with his lack of experience. Also, I am a former resident of Illinois who still has family there, who report they aren’t voting for him because "he ain’t done nothing for us here."
I do like the fact that he has a Muslim father, because it may help dealing with Iran and Iraq.
I also appreciate the fact that he is not running on his religion (at this time he attends a Christian church).
I hate when some candidates use their religion to gain votes. Religion should be up there with charm, good looks and charisma as reasons we should not vote for a candidate.
If those qualities are all it takes, let’s go to Hollywood for our next presidential candidate. Surely someone there attends church regularly who could be talked into being a candidate.
I have not decided who I will vote for. I am just happy it is election time.
It seems it has been a long time coming.
Patricia Perkins
Harmony
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Editorial: Keeping an eye on dangerous sites
Right now, sexual predators are trolling the Internet for potential prey.
And there’s not much the nation’s top law enforcement agencies and the corporations who run social networking sites like MySpace.com can do about it.
But at least they’re trying. MySpace officials were hailed by attorneys general from 49 states Monday for promising to check the names and ages of visitors who frequent their Web sites. MySpace will also establish a task force charged with finding new ways to protect children and teens who flock to the sites.
This is good news, but parents should not delude themselves into believing this agreement will ensure their children are safe from online predators when they are visiting MySpace.com or other social networking sites.
“We must keep telling children that they’re not just typing into a computer,” N.C. Attorney General Roy Cooper said. “They’re sharing themselves with the world.”
The companies that profit from these Web sites have a moral and ethical obligation to protect underage visitors from the sexual deviants who have turned the Internet into a scary place.
We take MySpace officials at their word that they promise to do everything in their power to protect young people. But parents should be no less vigilant in monitoring the online activities of their children.
And there’s not much the nation’s top law enforcement agencies and the corporations who run social networking sites like MySpace.com can do about it.
But at least they’re trying. MySpace officials were hailed by attorneys general from 49 states Monday for promising to check the names and ages of visitors who frequent their Web sites. MySpace will also establish a task force charged with finding new ways to protect children and teens who flock to the sites.
This is good news, but parents should not delude themselves into believing this agreement will ensure their children are safe from online predators when they are visiting MySpace.com or other social networking sites.
“We must keep telling children that they’re not just typing into a computer,” N.C. Attorney General Roy Cooper said. “They’re sharing themselves with the world.”
The companies that profit from these Web sites have a moral and ethical obligation to protect underage visitors from the sexual deviants who have turned the Internet into a scary place.
We take MySpace officials at their word that they promise to do everything in their power to protect young people. But parents should be no less vigilant in monitoring the online activities of their children.
Letter of the Day: The key to foreign talks is shutting up
In her column in Sunday’s R&L, Mona Charen gave us more information than we get in the sound bites on the nightly news.
After casting doubt on the patriotism of all Democrats, she went on to explore the foreign policy theories of presidential candidate Barack Obama.
Ms. Charen seems to be too young to remember the last classic liberal administration, that of Richard Nixon.
Nixon, for those of us who care to remember, initiated diplomatic relations with the terrifying communist China and started regular, low-key talks with the Soviet Union. This foreign policy initiative was key to the implosion of the Soviet Union in the late ’80s.
The Reagan Administra-tion’s chest-beating about the “Evil Empire” postponed the collapse of the Soviet Empire by giving something for Soviet hardliners to fight against.
Reagan’s return to negotiation on the basis of mutual self benefit allowed the Soviet Union to quietly dissolve.Teddy Roosevelt famously said to “speak softly and carry a big stick.”
Our current president, tied down with the situation in Iraq, seems to believe in talking loud and carrying a nerf bat. Bush’s loud antagonism toward Iran merely gives the extremists in that country something to rally around.
Our greatest foreign policy successes have been when we shut up and listened without delusions about the intentions of others.
Now we find from Ms. Charen that Obama would talk with our enemies.
After casting doubt on the patriotism of all Democrats, she went on to explore the foreign policy theories of presidential candidate Barack Obama.
Ms. Charen seems to be too young to remember the last classic liberal administration, that of Richard Nixon.
Nixon, for those of us who care to remember, initiated diplomatic relations with the terrifying communist China and started regular, low-key talks with the Soviet Union. This foreign policy initiative was key to the implosion of the Soviet Union in the late ’80s.
The Reagan Administra-tion’s chest-beating about the “Evil Empire” postponed the collapse of the Soviet Empire by giving something for Soviet hardliners to fight against.
Reagan’s return to negotiation on the basis of mutual self benefit allowed the Soviet Union to quietly dissolve.Teddy Roosevelt famously said to “speak softly and carry a big stick.”
Our current president, tied down with the situation in Iraq, seems to believe in talking loud and carrying a nerf bat. Bush’s loud antagonism toward Iran merely gives the extremists in that country something to rally around.
Our greatest foreign policy successes have been when we shut up and listened without delusions about the intentions of others.
Now we find from Ms. Charen that Obama would talk with our enemies.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Editorial: More than a degree
It’s hard to imagine a teenager dropping out of school when they are about a year away from a diploma, but for many former Iredell-Statesville Schools students last year, that was reality.
Nearly half of the 317 students who quit school in the 2006-07 school year were in their junior or senior year of high school.
Not included in that number are the students who were kicked out of school for poor grades or poor behavior.
I-SS has developed programs that focus on at-risk students on the cusp of dropping out of school — programs that are to be commended.
A large part of the dropout epidemic is a student’s indifference to their education.
Whether it’s because they lack parental guidance or they feel school “just isn’t for them,” teenagers who lack motivation in the classroom may have a bumpy future.
The benefits of a high school degree range from salary gains to the likelihood of achieving higher education.
We believe I-SS realizes that keeping kids in school means more than just getting a diploma in their hands. It means helping students find a subject that piques their interest, be it science, politics, theater or home economics, and turning that interest into a vocation.
A student vested in learning is a person vested in their future.
I-SS is on the right path to giving students a better tomorrow.
Nearly half of the 317 students who quit school in the 2006-07 school year were in their junior or senior year of high school.
Not included in that number are the students who were kicked out of school for poor grades or poor behavior.
I-SS has developed programs that focus on at-risk students on the cusp of dropping out of school — programs that are to be commended.
A large part of the dropout epidemic is a student’s indifference to their education.
Whether it’s because they lack parental guidance or they feel school “just isn’t for them,” teenagers who lack motivation in the classroom may have a bumpy future.
The benefits of a high school degree range from salary gains to the likelihood of achieving higher education.
We believe I-SS realizes that keeping kids in school means more than just getting a diploma in their hands. It means helping students find a subject that piques their interest, be it science, politics, theater or home economics, and turning that interest into a vocation.
A student vested in learning is a person vested in their future.
I-SS is on the right path to giving students a better tomorrow.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Call the Humane Society, not the local animal shelter
I would like to print a letter letting everyone know just how important it really is to make sure you have the Humane Society pick up unwanted animals instead of calling the pound on them.
During hours of research, I have found that Iredell County is one of the top counties in putting animals to sleep.
The facility is not a very pleasant place for animals. The Humane Society is out to finding animals homes, whereas the pound usually just puts the animals to sleep.
During my time having to deal with Animal Control, I found that lots of the staff were very unfriendly and not very helpful.
The dogs were in small cages with no air or heat. Also, every time I came by to visit my dog, Abby, her cage was dirty and there was no water.
On one visit, I was told I would not be allowed to touch the dog because of her coming in contact with a dead raccoon. The following day, I came to bring Abbey a treat, and I was allowed to touch and feed her. I spoke with Chris Royal about this matter ,and she said that basically, it was my fault for touching the dog — that I knew better.
Well, I just want the community to know that some of the staff are not even skilled enough to be running the facility.
Not only do we need the new shelter, but maybe need to also educate the workers on how to deal with the animals and for them to go the extra mile to actually find homes for these animals.
Also, thank you to everyone who had a part in helping save Abby. You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
Tara Castorena
Troutman
During hours of research, I have found that Iredell County is one of the top counties in putting animals to sleep.
The facility is not a very pleasant place for animals. The Humane Society is out to finding animals homes, whereas the pound usually just puts the animals to sleep.
During my time having to deal with Animal Control, I found that lots of the staff were very unfriendly and not very helpful.
The dogs were in small cages with no air or heat. Also, every time I came by to visit my dog, Abby, her cage was dirty and there was no water.
On one visit, I was told I would not be allowed to touch the dog because of her coming in contact with a dead raccoon. The following day, I came to bring Abbey a treat, and I was allowed to touch and feed her. I spoke with Chris Royal about this matter ,and she said that basically, it was my fault for touching the dog — that I knew better.
Well, I just want the community to know that some of the staff are not even skilled enough to be running the facility.
Not only do we need the new shelter, but maybe need to also educate the workers on how to deal with the animals and for them to go the extra mile to actually find homes for these animals.
Also, thank you to everyone who had a part in helping save Abby. You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
Tara Castorena
Troutman
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Editorial: A safety search net
More than a year ago, on Dec. 28, 2006, Addie Ree Chambers was found in a ramshackle barn off Wallace Springs Road wearing only a nightgown and a pair of socks in 26-degree weather.
The 80-year-old Alzheimer’s patient had wandered from her home just after 1 a.m. Thanks to an immediate search, Chambers was found quickly and still in good health.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
The Silver Alert is a program designed to help find cognitively impaired adults, which is not limited to seniors.
Similar to the Amber Alert for missing children, the Silver Alert sends out a massive notification if a legal custodian reports the impaired adult is missing.
Lois Hogan from the N.C. Center for Missing Persons said those with cognitive impairments tend to become disoriented and are therefore vulnerable to their surroundings and predators.
The Silver Alert provides caregivers statewide with an organized, useful system in the event something goes wrong.
In order to sign up for the alert, the missing person must be at least 18 with a cognitive impairment. The proper paperwork must be filed with law enforcement, who can then request the alert, and the Center for Missing Persons can activate it.
In the case of Addie Chambers, the community came together to prevent a tragedy.
In the case of many more like her, Silver Alert will hopefully do the same.
The 80-year-old Alzheimer’s patient had wandered from her home just after 1 a.m. Thanks to an immediate search, Chambers was found quickly and still in good health.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
The Silver Alert is a program designed to help find cognitively impaired adults, which is not limited to seniors.
Similar to the Amber Alert for missing children, the Silver Alert sends out a massive notification if a legal custodian reports the impaired adult is missing.
Lois Hogan from the N.C. Center for Missing Persons said those with cognitive impairments tend to become disoriented and are therefore vulnerable to their surroundings and predators.
The Silver Alert provides caregivers statewide with an organized, useful system in the event something goes wrong.
In order to sign up for the alert, the missing person must be at least 18 with a cognitive impairment. The proper paperwork must be filed with law enforcement, who can then request the alert, and the Center for Missing Persons can activate it.
In the case of Addie Chambers, the community came together to prevent a tragedy.
In the case of many more like her, Silver Alert will hopefully do the same.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Letter of the Day: Residents kept Vincek's daughters in their hearts
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the community for their generous support of and gifts to Jennifer Vincek’s daughters, making their Christmas a little easier to deal with.
For the community to have Jennifer and her daughters in their hearts, people they never met, and to give so much, makes us feel good about our community.
Back in October, I lost my job. Jennifer brought us food and gave us gas money, and for her to do that brought me to tears.
I called Jennifer the next day to thank her; she told me that it made her feel good to do something nice for us.
I realized then how big a heart Jennifer had, and that’s how I feel about the community.
I would like to thank Stony Point Elementary School for their contribution to Aeryal, Jennifer’s oldest daughter, and making her Christmas a little brighter.
To the parent (I apologize for not remembering her name) who gave generously to Aeryal, you are greatly appreciated.
To all of Aeryal’s teachers who came to the reception and service for Jennifer, that meant so much to Aeryal, and to Miss Teague’s second-grade class for all the sympathy cards her students wrote. I read them all more than once, and each time I read them, I broke down.
I thank you.
I thank Renee Griffiths, a mother of three boys who never met Jennifer or her girls, but who took the time from her busy schedule to put together a benefit for Jennifer’s daughters. We appreciate your time and effort to do this. We thank you.
"Perhaps you sent a sympathy card
Or sat quietly in a chair,
Perhaps you sent a floral piece —
If so, we saw it there.
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words
As any friend could say.
Perhaps you were not there at all,
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console our hearts,
We thank you so much,
Whatever the part."
I might not remember everyone’s name, but I definitely won’t forget the support that everyone in the community has given to Jennifer’s daughters.
Joseph and Aeryal Sherepita
Stony Point
For the community to have Jennifer and her daughters in their hearts, people they never met, and to give so much, makes us feel good about our community.
Back in October, I lost my job. Jennifer brought us food and gave us gas money, and for her to do that brought me to tears.
I called Jennifer the next day to thank her; she told me that it made her feel good to do something nice for us.
I realized then how big a heart Jennifer had, and that’s how I feel about the community.
I would like to thank Stony Point Elementary School for their contribution to Aeryal, Jennifer’s oldest daughter, and making her Christmas a little brighter.
To the parent (I apologize for not remembering her name) who gave generously to Aeryal, you are greatly appreciated.
To all of Aeryal’s teachers who came to the reception and service for Jennifer, that meant so much to Aeryal, and to Miss Teague’s second-grade class for all the sympathy cards her students wrote. I read them all more than once, and each time I read them, I broke down.
I thank you.
I thank Renee Griffiths, a mother of three boys who never met Jennifer or her girls, but who took the time from her busy schedule to put together a benefit for Jennifer’s daughters. We appreciate your time and effort to do this. We thank you.
"Perhaps you sent a sympathy card
Or sat quietly in a chair,
Perhaps you sent a floral piece —
If so, we saw it there.
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words
As any friend could say.
Perhaps you were not there at all,
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console our hearts,
We thank you so much,
Whatever the part."
I might not remember everyone’s name, but I definitely won’t forget the support that everyone in the community has given to Jennifer’s daughters.
Joseph and Aeryal Sherepita
Stony Point
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Editorial: A success story
Way to go, Iredell!
For more than 45 consecutive years, you have opened your hearts and your wallets during the holidays to help the foster children in our communities have a memorable Christmas morning and the many extras they need throughout the year — like musical instruments and summer camp — that many foster parents cannot afford.
By supporting the Lonely Children’s Fund, you have given children who need a reason to believe that most people are good and decent and caring are just that.This year’s goal was $25,000. Contributions exceeded $28,030.
As always, a special thanks goes to the dedicated employees of the Iredell County Department of Social Services. Often maligned for the heart-wrenching decisions they’re compelled to make on a daily basis to protect abused and neglected children, DSS workers coordinate the Lonely Children’s Fund.
Like the hundreds of contributors each year, they don’t have to go the extra mile to help foster children. They do so because they see the need and they care.
For more than 45 consecutive years, you have opened your hearts and your wallets during the holidays to help the foster children in our communities have a memorable Christmas morning and the many extras they need throughout the year — like musical instruments and summer camp — that many foster parents cannot afford.
By supporting the Lonely Children’s Fund, you have given children who need a reason to believe that most people are good and decent and caring are just that.This year’s goal was $25,000. Contributions exceeded $28,030.
As always, a special thanks goes to the dedicated employees of the Iredell County Department of Social Services. Often maligned for the heart-wrenching decisions they’re compelled to make on a daily basis to protect abused and neglected children, DSS workers coordinate the Lonely Children’s Fund.
Like the hundreds of contributors each year, they don’t have to go the extra mile to help foster children. They do so because they see the need and they care.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Editorial: Their day in court
Opponents of a biodiesel plant will get the first of what they hope are many days in court Monday.
County officials hope it will be the one and only appearance and that a judge will toss out their lawsuit.
Iredell Neighbors for Rural Life and nearly two dozen individual plaintiffs have asked an Iredell Superior Court judge to void a decision made by the county commission to allow McLain Farms to produce biodiesel fuel on property that was rezoned by county commissioners from agricultural to manufacturing.
The plaintiffs say commissioners made several missteps during the rezoning process that should nullify their decision.
Furthermore, they contend the biodiesel plant and the large trucks that will transport the fuel out of the Snow Creek Road community are a danger, and that their presence will erode their quality of life and diminish nearby property values.
The county attorney has countered that the Neighbors group has no legal standing to sue, that those claims are unfounded and that any mistakes the county commission made were procedural in nature and the law does not provide for the relief the group is seeking.
This controversial issue has divided friends and neighbors for more than six months.
It’s best for all sides, especially taxpayers, if this court battle is as brief as possible.
Whatever the outcome, the plaintiffs and the defendants should respect the judge’s decision and move forward.
County officials hope it will be the one and only appearance and that a judge will toss out their lawsuit.
Iredell Neighbors for Rural Life and nearly two dozen individual plaintiffs have asked an Iredell Superior Court judge to void a decision made by the county commission to allow McLain Farms to produce biodiesel fuel on property that was rezoned by county commissioners from agricultural to manufacturing.
The plaintiffs say commissioners made several missteps during the rezoning process that should nullify their decision.
Furthermore, they contend the biodiesel plant and the large trucks that will transport the fuel out of the Snow Creek Road community are a danger, and that their presence will erode their quality of life and diminish nearby property values.
The county attorney has countered that the Neighbors group has no legal standing to sue, that those claims are unfounded and that any mistakes the county commission made were procedural in nature and the law does not provide for the relief the group is seeking.
This controversial issue has divided friends and neighbors for more than six months.
It’s best for all sides, especially taxpayers, if this court battle is as brief as possible.
Whatever the outcome, the plaintiffs and the defendants should respect the judge’s decision and move forward.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Letter of the Day: Mayor, wife helped to start 2008 right for entire family
I regret I was not in attendance at the New Year’s Eve party held at the Statesville Civic Center because I heard it was one truly to remember for my family.
My dad, Ralph Frazier, took my mentally retarded brother, Chad Frazier. My mom was at home not feeling well.
Chad has always had a love for music, so this party was a true highlight for his holiday season.
My dad called home twice to tell us that some individuals had Chad and his wheelchair on the dance floor four different times. Those individuals happened to be Statesville Mayor Costi Kutteh and his wife, Teresa.
Chad enjoyed it so much. It often troubles me when my brother is ignored in life as many disabled individuals are in society. This was not the case on New Year’s Eve.
I would like to thank Mayor and Mrs. Kutteh for making Chad feel special.
Not only are you the wonderful mayor and first lady of Statesville, you are angels.
Thank you for all the hard work that everyone did to make the party a fun event.
Happy New Year’s.
Joy Frazier Murphy and family
Statesville
My dad, Ralph Frazier, took my mentally retarded brother, Chad Frazier. My mom was at home not feeling well.
Chad has always had a love for music, so this party was a true highlight for his holiday season.
My dad called home twice to tell us that some individuals had Chad and his wheelchair on the dance floor four different times. Those individuals happened to be Statesville Mayor Costi Kutteh and his wife, Teresa.
Chad enjoyed it so much. It often troubles me when my brother is ignored in life as many disabled individuals are in society. This was not the case on New Year’s Eve.
I would like to thank Mayor and Mrs. Kutteh for making Chad feel special.
Not only are you the wonderful mayor and first lady of Statesville, you are angels.
Thank you for all the hard work that everyone did to make the party a fun event.
Happy New Year’s.
Joy Frazier Murphy and family
Statesville
Friday, January 4, 2008
Letter of the Day: 'Picture with Santa' fee goes a long way
As a long-time patron and employee of Signal Hill Mall, I would like to address a few concerns I have with the article about Mr. Michael Allen’s visit with Santa, which was in the Christmas Day edition of the R&L.
I was Santa’s "less-than-jolly old elf" who assisted Mr. Allen upon his arrival. I am fully aware of the strains the Christmas season places on the pockets of shoppers. I am a college student who knows the value of a $5 bill; however, I also know there are more tactful ways of saying "I cannot afford a picture."
For those other parents who had children visiting Santa that day, the foul language and temper were a bit unnecessary. Signal Hill Mall strives to maintain a family shopping atmosphere, and Mr. Allen’s language and enraged temper did not comply with the mall’s idea of a family-friendly environment.
I am sorry the situation got out of hand; however I did not deserve the personal insults I received for simply doing my job. Furthermore, I am sorry Mr. Allen’s children had to see him lose his temper; no child should have to hear that kind of language, especially from their father.
Allow me to give you a little information about this $5 fee and the funding for events at Signal Hill Mall. The Signal Hill Mall Merchant’s Association provides shoppers with Santa and his elves and the Easter Bunny to raise funds for free events throughout the year.
The free events are fireworks in July, trick-or-treating in October, karaoke twice a year, magic shows, antique car and truck shows, spelling bees and various concerts throughout the year.
These free events are also paid for by the income from mall tenants.
The fee also pays for advertising, which supports the R&L.
If we were to allow every customer to take their own digital pictures with Santa, we would make no money to support these events. Other malls do not even allow digital camera use. We understand parents may like to use their own cameras; therefore, we charge a $5 fee to offset the cost of labor, decorations and future events.
Therefore, the fee goes a long way.
In closing, I would like to make a clarification to the article: Santa did not chase Mr. Allen down the mall; he followed Mr. Allen to ensure other customers’ children did not have to witness his temper. Furthermore, it should be known that staff offered Mr. Allen the opportunity for a free picture with Santa, for which he failed to show up.
From this point forward, I think it would be wise if we all learned from the mistakes we made.
Let us not forget about the reason for the season. As a long-time elf, I would like to thank the residents of Statesville for supporting their local mall — we could not make it without you.
I enjoy seeing customers return from one year to the next, and can speak for all of Santa’s elves in saying that we take a great deal of pride in our jobs. Thank you and happy holidays to our supporters.
Judith ‘Jolly Judith Elf’ Michael Taylor
Cleveland, N.C.
I was Santa’s "less-than-jolly old elf" who assisted Mr. Allen upon his arrival. I am fully aware of the strains the Christmas season places on the pockets of shoppers. I am a college student who knows the value of a $5 bill; however, I also know there are more tactful ways of saying "I cannot afford a picture."
For those other parents who had children visiting Santa that day, the foul language and temper were a bit unnecessary. Signal Hill Mall strives to maintain a family shopping atmosphere, and Mr. Allen’s language and enraged temper did not comply with the mall’s idea of a family-friendly environment.
I am sorry the situation got out of hand; however I did not deserve the personal insults I received for simply doing my job. Furthermore, I am sorry Mr. Allen’s children had to see him lose his temper; no child should have to hear that kind of language, especially from their father.
Allow me to give you a little information about this $5 fee and the funding for events at Signal Hill Mall. The Signal Hill Mall Merchant’s Association provides shoppers with Santa and his elves and the Easter Bunny to raise funds for free events throughout the year.
The free events are fireworks in July, trick-or-treating in October, karaoke twice a year, magic shows, antique car and truck shows, spelling bees and various concerts throughout the year.
These free events are also paid for by the income from mall tenants.
The fee also pays for advertising, which supports the R&L.
If we were to allow every customer to take their own digital pictures with Santa, we would make no money to support these events. Other malls do not even allow digital camera use. We understand parents may like to use their own cameras; therefore, we charge a $5 fee to offset the cost of labor, decorations and future events.
Therefore, the fee goes a long way.
In closing, I would like to make a clarification to the article: Santa did not chase Mr. Allen down the mall; he followed Mr. Allen to ensure other customers’ children did not have to witness his temper. Furthermore, it should be known that staff offered Mr. Allen the opportunity for a free picture with Santa, for which he failed to show up.
From this point forward, I think it would be wise if we all learned from the mistakes we made.
Let us not forget about the reason for the season. As a long-time elf, I would like to thank the residents of Statesville for supporting their local mall — we could not make it without you.
I enjoy seeing customers return from one year to the next, and can speak for all of Santa’s elves in saying that we take a great deal of pride in our jobs. Thank you and happy holidays to our supporters.
Judith ‘Jolly Judith Elf’ Michael Taylor
Cleveland, N.C.
Editorial: Spreading the word
It may be 2008, but the racial tensions that plagued the United States in 1960 are still present today.That’s why Harper Lee’s novel, “To Kill A Mockingbird,” which depicts one of the darkest sides of racism, is as relevant today as ever.
Stereotypes, racial slurs and hate crimes have persisted since the book was published nearly half a century ago, and the hatred Lee details remains rampant in the streets and behind closed doors.
The discrimination Lee’s characters practice and endure can be seen in our nation’s court systems and in our workplaces.
Perhaps it’s because the black-and-white world of the ’60s still colors our nation today, or perhaps because Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is just around the corner, but Statesville civic leaders have decided to take a step to explore historical and contemporary race relations in the U.S. and in our own community.The Big Read’s primary purpose is to promote reading.
A group of Statesville civic and business leaders are in the process of applying for a federal grant that would supply books for community members — and help pay for public events — so residents can read and discuss it. Project leaders chose “To Kill a Mockingbird” and plan to hold panel discussions on race relations, among other activities.
We applaud this project as one more way to unify our diverse community.
Though they say not to judge a book by its cover, the Big Read will be a positive step for all of Iredell County.
Stereotypes, racial slurs and hate crimes have persisted since the book was published nearly half a century ago, and the hatred Lee details remains rampant in the streets and behind closed doors.
The discrimination Lee’s characters practice and endure can be seen in our nation’s court systems and in our workplaces.
Perhaps it’s because the black-and-white world of the ’60s still colors our nation today, or perhaps because Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is just around the corner, but Statesville civic leaders have decided to take a step to explore historical and contemporary race relations in the U.S. and in our own community.The Big Read’s primary purpose is to promote reading.
A group of Statesville civic and business leaders are in the process of applying for a federal grant that would supply books for community members — and help pay for public events — so residents can read and discuss it. Project leaders chose “To Kill a Mockingbird” and plan to hold panel discussions on race relations, among other activities.
We applaud this project as one more way to unify our diverse community.
Though they say not to judge a book by its cover, the Big Read will be a positive step for all of Iredell County.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Letter of the Day: Newspaper theft hurts vendors and can results in charges
As a newspaper vendor for most of the past 20 years, I find it somewhat amusing watching people purchase a newspaper from an outside rack.
Don’t get me wrong, their patronage is what helps me feed my family. But the two most common things I observe when seeing someone get a paper from a rack are grabbing one in the middle and theft.
I can assure you the newspaper in the middle is no better than the one on top. Also, I can understand that money may be tight from time to time, but have we, as a society, lowered ourselves to stealing a 50 cent newspaper?
The common misconception on this is that it is "only a newspaper," and besides, "They make plenty of money anyway," or "They won’t miss just one." If that same thought occured at every location in Iredell County, well you can see that would start to add up.
To those of you who faithfully purchase from these different locations around the county, the individual contractors thank you for your patronage. If you see someone stealing a newspaper from a rack, simply ask them if taking that newspaper is worth the embarrassment of having a criminal record.
Thomas D. Sloan
Statesville
Don’t get me wrong, their patronage is what helps me feed my family. But the two most common things I observe when seeing someone get a paper from a rack are grabbing one in the middle and theft.
I can assure you the newspaper in the middle is no better than the one on top. Also, I can understand that money may be tight from time to time, but have we, as a society, lowered ourselves to stealing a 50 cent newspaper?
The common misconception on this is that it is "only a newspaper," and besides, "They make plenty of money anyway," or "They won’t miss just one." If that same thought occured at every location in Iredell County, well you can see that would start to add up.
To those of you who faithfully purchase from these different locations around the county, the individual contractors thank you for your patronage. If you see someone stealing a newspaper from a rack, simply ask them if taking that newspaper is worth the embarrassment of having a criminal record.
Thomas D. Sloan
Statesville
Editorial: An eye for an eye
From the disproportionate number of minorities on death rows across the nation to ethical questions about the manner in which individual states carry out executions, there are plenty of compelling reasons for abolishing capital punishment.
The recent double homicide at the East Broad Street Shell station, in which the mother of three young children complied with an armed robber’s demands before being shot to death along with a customer, outweighs all of those concerns.
Some crimes are so heinous and some criminals so dangerous that the only proper way for an organized society to respond is with lethal force. This is certainly one of those cases.Life imprisonment is entirely inadequate for someone who would kill for no reason other than pure meanness and greed. Someone who would put two bullets in a defenseless woman as she knelt on the floor certainly wouldn’t think twice about causing bodily harm to a corrections officer or other inmates.
The possibility of being executed obviously did not deter the thug who mercilessly took the lives of Shell clerk Jennifer Vincek and customer Jeff Peck. We still hold out hope, however, that the eventul execution of their killer might deter others from making the same mistakes.
Andrew Ramseur, the teen who was indicted Monday in this brutal crime, is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that he murdered Ms. Vincek and Mr. Peck in the commission of a robbery.
If Ramseur is convicted as charged, he deserves the ultimate punishment.
The recent double homicide at the East Broad Street Shell station, in which the mother of three young children complied with an armed robber’s demands before being shot to death along with a customer, outweighs all of those concerns.
Some crimes are so heinous and some criminals so dangerous that the only proper way for an organized society to respond is with lethal force. This is certainly one of those cases.Life imprisonment is entirely inadequate for someone who would kill for no reason other than pure meanness and greed. Someone who would put two bullets in a defenseless woman as she knelt on the floor certainly wouldn’t think twice about causing bodily harm to a corrections officer or other inmates.
The possibility of being executed obviously did not deter the thug who mercilessly took the lives of Shell clerk Jennifer Vincek and customer Jeff Peck. We still hold out hope, however, that the eventul execution of their killer might deter others from making the same mistakes.
Andrew Ramseur, the teen who was indicted Monday in this brutal crime, is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that he murdered Ms. Vincek and Mr. Peck in the commission of a robbery.
If Ramseur is convicted as charged, he deserves the ultimate punishment.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Letter of the Day: Grieving family encoraged by outpouring of love, support
As the paternal grandmother of two of Jennifer Vincek’s children, I want to express my gratitude to the community for its outpouring of love and support following our tragic loss of Jennifer.
All three girls had a tremendous Christmas due to the gifts and donations made.
Many of the donations were sent anonymously so I’m unable to thank each person individually as I would like to do. All of this reinforces that there is more good in the world than bad and God’s love will prevail even in the darkest hours.
The Statesville Police Department did an outstanding job during the investigation and the apprehension of the suspect. We are extremely thankful to them for the support and respect they have shown to the family as well.
I also want to thank the Statesville Record & Landmark for their news coverage and the support they have shown. Again, thank you to everyone for your prayers, gifts, love and support during this very trying time.
It is very comforting to know that we live in such a thoughtful and wonderful community.
Bobbi Provost
Davidson
All three girls had a tremendous Christmas due to the gifts and donations made.
Many of the donations were sent anonymously so I’m unable to thank each person individually as I would like to do. All of this reinforces that there is more good in the world than bad and God’s love will prevail even in the darkest hours.
The Statesville Police Department did an outstanding job during the investigation and the apprehension of the suspect. We are extremely thankful to them for the support and respect they have shown to the family as well.
I also want to thank the Statesville Record & Landmark for their news coverage and the support they have shown. Again, thank you to everyone for your prayers, gifts, love and support during this very trying time.
It is very comforting to know that we live in such a thoughtful and wonderful community.
Bobbi Provost
Davidson
Monday, December 31, 2007
A big year for the R&L
With this edition, we close the book on another year.
On today’s front, we wrapped up our annual countdown of the top local news stories of 2007. Selecting and ranking these stories has never been more difficult. This was the fifth year I’ve been involved with this project at the R&L, and I can’t remember a year with more tragic news stories.
Aside from the 10 homicides in the Statesville area, there were numerous fatal car accidents that took people away from their loved ones far too soon. Covering these stories is a difficult undertaking for our staff of professional journalists, who do their best to respect the privacy of the grieving families while also reporting the news of the day.
There was plenty of news involving the Statesville City Council and Iredell County Commission in 2007, and I don’t believe we missed a public meeting. The council’s dynamics changed with the retirement of long-time public servant Pete Peterson. Near the end of the year, veteran Commissioner Sara Haire Tice announced she would not seek another term in 2008. The long hours Peterson and Tice put in during the past two decades would be difficult to quantify, as would their contributions to this great county.
The ongoing drought was big news throughout the year and will no doubt continue to be a major story in 2008. Due to the vision of our elected city officials and their staff, we’re fortunate to live in a city rich in water resources. Let’s hope that continues.
This spring, our staff had fun — as many of you did — following the filming of “Leatherheads” in downtown Statesville. Like everyone — except the locals who were fortunate enough to land a role as an extra — we had limited access to the stars. But we managed to snag a few photos of actors George Clooney and Renee Zellweger between shoots on Center Street.
We also began producing news and information in ways we had only dreamed about. Under the leadership of Web content producer Jessica Norman, we began posting video to www.statesville.com, including our 5@5 Webcast and the weekly sports show. We’re also distributing more news via text messages to cell phones and e-mail. All of these efforts will intensify in the coming weeks and months.
+ + +
The opinion page was as vibrant as ever in 2007. We printed letters from more than 550 readers. Thanks to all of you who took time to weigh on the important issues of the day. Your views matter, and we’re proud to host a debate every day.
There was plenty to write about. The most popular topics were the city council’s attempt to ban panhandling, the county commission’s decision to allow a biodiesel plant to be built in a rural neighborhood and residents’ pleas for a traffic signal at the intersection of the new U.S. Highway 70 and Triplett Road, where three people were killed in a pair of tragic accidents in October.
Our most prolific letter writers in 2007 were Paul Lowe, Thomas Palmer and Neal Grose, each of whom had 14 letters published. It’s a safe bet that all three will be regular contributors in 2008 once the presidential election kicks into high gear.
Former governors James Holshouser and Jim Hunt and Rep. Virginia Foxx also contributed their views.
On a sad note, this page lost the voice of a long-time writer — and one of my favorite people — when World War II veteran Charlie Benbow passed away.
As always, thanks to all of you for reading the R&L.
Mike Fuhrman
On today’s front, we wrapped up our annual countdown of the top local news stories of 2007. Selecting and ranking these stories has never been more difficult. This was the fifth year I’ve been involved with this project at the R&L, and I can’t remember a year with more tragic news stories.
Aside from the 10 homicides in the Statesville area, there were numerous fatal car accidents that took people away from their loved ones far too soon. Covering these stories is a difficult undertaking for our staff of professional journalists, who do their best to respect the privacy of the grieving families while also reporting the news of the day.
There was plenty of news involving the Statesville City Council and Iredell County Commission in 2007, and I don’t believe we missed a public meeting. The council’s dynamics changed with the retirement of long-time public servant Pete Peterson. Near the end of the year, veteran Commissioner Sara Haire Tice announced she would not seek another term in 2008. The long hours Peterson and Tice put in during the past two decades would be difficult to quantify, as would their contributions to this great county.
The ongoing drought was big news throughout the year and will no doubt continue to be a major story in 2008. Due to the vision of our elected city officials and their staff, we’re fortunate to live in a city rich in water resources. Let’s hope that continues.
This spring, our staff had fun — as many of you did — following the filming of “Leatherheads” in downtown Statesville. Like everyone — except the locals who were fortunate enough to land a role as an extra — we had limited access to the stars. But we managed to snag a few photos of actors George Clooney and Renee Zellweger between shoots on Center Street.
We also began producing news and information in ways we had only dreamed about. Under the leadership of Web content producer Jessica Norman, we began posting video to www.statesville.com, including our 5@5 Webcast and the weekly sports show. We’re also distributing more news via text messages to cell phones and e-mail. All of these efforts will intensify in the coming weeks and months.
+ + +
The opinion page was as vibrant as ever in 2007. We printed letters from more than 550 readers. Thanks to all of you who took time to weigh on the important issues of the day. Your views matter, and we’re proud to host a debate every day.
There was plenty to write about. The most popular topics were the city council’s attempt to ban panhandling, the county commission’s decision to allow a biodiesel plant to be built in a rural neighborhood and residents’ pleas for a traffic signal at the intersection of the new U.S. Highway 70 and Triplett Road, where three people were killed in a pair of tragic accidents in October.
Our most prolific letter writers in 2007 were Paul Lowe, Thomas Palmer and Neal Grose, each of whom had 14 letters published. It’s a safe bet that all three will be regular contributors in 2008 once the presidential election kicks into high gear.
Former governors James Holshouser and Jim Hunt and Rep. Virginia Foxx also contributed their views.
On a sad note, this page lost the voice of a long-time writer — and one of my favorite people — when World War II veteran Charlie Benbow passed away.
As always, thanks to all of you for reading the R&L.
Mike Fuhrman
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Editorial: Four years later
It’s been 1,461 days since a group of teens who came to be known posthumously as the Statesville Seven died on a dark stretch of U.S. Highway 21 while running from a Troutman police officer.
They were killed four years ago today, just after midnight, when their vehicle, which had three good tires and a donut spare and was later reported stolen, careened off U.S. 21 at a high rate of speed, struck an embankment, overturned and hit a tree.
You don’t hear as much about the Statesville Seven these days. In fact, there’s not a public event this year commemorating the loss of these young lives. More recent tragedies and acts of senseless violence, instances when other misguided teens made the wrong choices and got hurt or hurt others, are now etched in the forefront of our collective memories.
Despite the calls for change brought on by the events of Dec. 29, 2003, enduring, life-altering change has been too slow to take hold in our communities. There’s still too much crime, too many dope pushers and too little hope.
But change is coming. A small band of community activists, true leaders with a vision, is working to save the current generation of children from the trappings of the streets, the lure of drugs and easy money.
This band is raising money by the hundreds of thousands of dollars to make sure teens in South Statesville and in the rest of the city have positive role models and alternatives to joyriding. When the Boys & Girls Club of the Piedmont finally opens its doors, there will be a real reason to have hope for the next generation.
Until that day comes, remember John Lindsey Myers, David Wayne Summers, Quentin Maurice Reed, Antonio Miller, Domnick Hurtt, Erica Stevenson and Antoinette Griffin were all our children. They are still missed by those who loved them.
We should remember their names and the unfortunate circumstances that led to their deaths. Not just on the anniversary of their deaths, but every day.
They were killed four years ago today, just after midnight, when their vehicle, which had three good tires and a donut spare and was later reported stolen, careened off U.S. 21 at a high rate of speed, struck an embankment, overturned and hit a tree.
You don’t hear as much about the Statesville Seven these days. In fact, there’s not a public event this year commemorating the loss of these young lives. More recent tragedies and acts of senseless violence, instances when other misguided teens made the wrong choices and got hurt or hurt others, are now etched in the forefront of our collective memories.
Despite the calls for change brought on by the events of Dec. 29, 2003, enduring, life-altering change has been too slow to take hold in our communities. There’s still too much crime, too many dope pushers and too little hope.
But change is coming. A small band of community activists, true leaders with a vision, is working to save the current generation of children from the trappings of the streets, the lure of drugs and easy money.
This band is raising money by the hundreds of thousands of dollars to make sure teens in South Statesville and in the rest of the city have positive role models and alternatives to joyriding. When the Boys & Girls Club of the Piedmont finally opens its doors, there will be a real reason to have hope for the next generation.
Until that day comes, remember John Lindsey Myers, David Wayne Summers, Quentin Maurice Reed, Antonio Miller, Domnick Hurtt, Erica Stevenson and Antoinette Griffin were all our children. They are still missed by those who loved them.
We should remember their names and the unfortunate circumstances that led to their deaths. Not just on the anniversary of their deaths, but every day.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Editorial: Playing the Game
Rep. Virginia Foxx’s recent proclamation that she will not seek congressional earmarks to steer federal funding to local projects is a noble idea.
If that idea were to be universally embraced by members of both major political parties, who too often tend to view taxpayers’ money as their own, Americans might begin to hold their elected representatives in higher esteem.
Don’t expect that to happen.
And, if Foxx sticks to her guns, residents of the 5th Congressional District will be worse off for it.
Without her advocacy, federal money that could have gone to important projects in Foxx’s sprawling district will instead be gobbled up by other members of the U.S. House and Senate for pet projects in their states.
Foxx is right to bemoan the use of irresponsible earmarks, which politicians use to build goodwill with voters back home. And what’s good for the voters back home is usually good for the politicians. Everyone knows that’s how the game is played and how many elections are won.
Working with Sens. Richard Burr and Elizabeth Dole, Foxx has played a hand in making sure a good chunk of federal funding has made its way to her district during the past three years.
In 2007, when Democrats controlled both chambers, the trio still managed to get $1 million in funding for transplant research at Wake Forest University, $300,000 for biofuel research at Appalachian State University and $100,000 for technology for rural schools in North Carolina.
Foxx has also helped secure millions of dollars in federal funding to pay for improvements at Statesville Regional Airport.
In 2008, when Foxx’s seat is up for grabs, we recommend that she continue to play the game by the rules that were in place when she was elected.
If that idea were to be universally embraced by members of both major political parties, who too often tend to view taxpayers’ money as their own, Americans might begin to hold their elected representatives in higher esteem.
Don’t expect that to happen.
And, if Foxx sticks to her guns, residents of the 5th Congressional District will be worse off for it.
Without her advocacy, federal money that could have gone to important projects in Foxx’s sprawling district will instead be gobbled up by other members of the U.S. House and Senate for pet projects in their states.
Foxx is right to bemoan the use of irresponsible earmarks, which politicians use to build goodwill with voters back home. And what’s good for the voters back home is usually good for the politicians. Everyone knows that’s how the game is played and how many elections are won.
Working with Sens. Richard Burr and Elizabeth Dole, Foxx has played a hand in making sure a good chunk of federal funding has made its way to her district during the past three years.
In 2007, when Democrats controlled both chambers, the trio still managed to get $1 million in funding for transplant research at Wake Forest University, $300,000 for biofuel research at Appalachian State University and $100,000 for technology for rural schools in North Carolina.
Foxx has also helped secure millions of dollars in federal funding to pay for improvements at Statesville Regional Airport.
In 2008, when Foxx’s seat is up for grabs, we recommend that she continue to play the game by the rules that were in place when she was elected.
Letter of the Day: Sheetz is good for motorists, bad for its small competitors
Sheetz gas station is welcomed in Statesville, as any gas station selling cheap gas would be. For working people with a limited budget, cheaper is better.
It gets old hearing the cost of gasoline being compared to milk and orange juice, as people say that gas is cheap compared to milk. I’m glad I don’t have to buy 25 gallons of milk every week. In this premise a gas retailer like Sheetz is welcome.
Sheetz is reminiscent of Wal-Mart. A lot of people don’t understand that just because the gas station has a BP sign out front that it is independently owned. These small business owners are required by the oil companies that own the pumps, tanks, signage and the gas that is in the ground to lay out enormous amounts of cash and lines of credit to be able to sell gas. In return, the oil companies call the gas stations, sometimes twice a day, and change the gas prices.
To be competitive, the oil company will let the owner lower their price to compete, but the owner is working on commission from the oil company. So if the oil company is demanding $3 a gallon, and the owner is selling for $2.85, the oil company will bill the gas station owner for the 15-cent- per-gallon loss next week. The gas station owner is also responsible for any credit card fees.
These owners make their money on the things that they sell inside the store, not on the gas. I worked at a gas station, and I personally saw a gas station pump 7,000 gallons of gas in one week and the owner still had to pay the oil company. He made no money on 7,000 gallons of gas. The fat cats are the executives who have paid off politicians in Washington and whose companies are posting record-breaking profits, while Americans are being destroyed at the gas pumps.
Owning a gas station used to be profitable, but now these independent owners are just trying to weather the storm. There is no “savings account” that they have built up from charging high gas prices that they can dip into because Sheetz has set up shop.
And, before it’s all over, they’ll be lucky to get out with the shirts on their back.
Marcus Troutman
Troutman
It gets old hearing the cost of gasoline being compared to milk and orange juice, as people say that gas is cheap compared to milk. I’m glad I don’t have to buy 25 gallons of milk every week. In this premise a gas retailer like Sheetz is welcome.
Sheetz is reminiscent of Wal-Mart. A lot of people don’t understand that just because the gas station has a BP sign out front that it is independently owned. These small business owners are required by the oil companies that own the pumps, tanks, signage and the gas that is in the ground to lay out enormous amounts of cash and lines of credit to be able to sell gas. In return, the oil companies call the gas stations, sometimes twice a day, and change the gas prices.
To be competitive, the oil company will let the owner lower their price to compete, but the owner is working on commission from the oil company. So if the oil company is demanding $3 a gallon, and the owner is selling for $2.85, the oil company will bill the gas station owner for the 15-cent- per-gallon loss next week. The gas station owner is also responsible for any credit card fees.
These owners make their money on the things that they sell inside the store, not on the gas. I worked at a gas station, and I personally saw a gas station pump 7,000 gallons of gas in one week and the owner still had to pay the oil company. He made no money on 7,000 gallons of gas. The fat cats are the executives who have paid off politicians in Washington and whose companies are posting record-breaking profits, while Americans are being destroyed at the gas pumps.
Owning a gas station used to be profitable, but now these independent owners are just trying to weather the storm. There is no “savings account” that they have built up from charging high gas prices that they can dip into because Sheetz has set up shop.
And, before it’s all over, they’ll be lucky to get out with the shirts on their back.
Marcus Troutman
Troutman
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Editorial: Some good news
Korean-based manufacturer Doosan Infracore confirmed what has been widely known this week when the company announced it had purchased the Dana Corp. plant and would employ 400 workers at the site.
Long considered one of the county’s most attractive industrial sites, the plant will be used by Doosan Infracore to manufacture air compressors, light towers and portable generators. The company’s regional headquarters will move to the site from nearby Davidson.
Displaced workers have held out hope for years that the county’s economic development team would land a major manufacturer for the site, bringing hundreds of high-paying jobs to a community that needs them. In fact, the prospect of creating new jobs was one of the major reasons county commissioners were opposed to a proposal to convert the site into a 21st Century education complex.
That’s not exactly how it worked out.
The vast majority of the jobs are already spoken for. Some 340 employees will likely transfer from other regional offices, leaving about five dozen jobs for the company to fill in Statesville in the coming year. We expect there will be no shortage of qualified applicants for these jobs.
Still, in today’s competitive global marketplace where cheap labor and government incentives tend to conspire against cities like Statesville, Doosan Infracore’s announcement was a banner day for Iredell and one that should be celebrated.
Almost as noteworthy was Dana’s decision to move its remaining Statesville workforce of three dozen to the downtown. The old Wachovia bank building had been vacant for too long and it’s exciting to see a new occupant.
Long considered one of the county’s most attractive industrial sites, the plant will be used by Doosan Infracore to manufacture air compressors, light towers and portable generators. The company’s regional headquarters will move to the site from nearby Davidson.
Displaced workers have held out hope for years that the county’s economic development team would land a major manufacturer for the site, bringing hundreds of high-paying jobs to a community that needs them. In fact, the prospect of creating new jobs was one of the major reasons county commissioners were opposed to a proposal to convert the site into a 21st Century education complex.
That’s not exactly how it worked out.
The vast majority of the jobs are already spoken for. Some 340 employees will likely transfer from other regional offices, leaving about five dozen jobs for the company to fill in Statesville in the coming year. We expect there will be no shortage of qualified applicants for these jobs.
Still, in today’s competitive global marketplace where cheap labor and government incentives tend to conspire against cities like Statesville, Doosan Infracore’s announcement was a banner day for Iredell and one that should be celebrated.
Almost as noteworthy was Dana’s decision to move its remaining Statesville workforce of three dozen to the downtown. The old Wachovia bank building had been vacant for too long and it’s exciting to see a new occupant.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Editorial: Make holidays bright for foster children
Year in and year out, we’re consistently impressed with this community’s compassion for those who are less fortunate.
In 2007, Iredell residents and businesses have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to the capital campaigns for Fifth Street Shelter Ministries and the Boys & Girls Club. Your annual contributions to the United Way of Iredell County have helped support the work of member agencies like the Salvation Army and American Red Cross, which change the lives of your neighbors for the better every day.
And, every year since 1960, you have supported the Iredell County Department of Social Services’ efforts to raise money for the Lonely Children’s Fund, which provides financial assistance to the 100-plus foster children in our county.
For 46 years, you’ve helped DSS reach its goal by contributing enough money to provide Christmas presents and other extras throughout the year — like summer camp and band instruments — for Iredell children who, through no fault of their own, are in the custody of the state.
This year’s goal is $25,000.
So far, you’ve contributed more than $22,000, making it extremely likely that DSS will extend its streak to 47 consecutive years.To those who have given, thank you for spreading a little holiday cheer to a group of children and teenagers that truly appreciates your generosity at Christmas and throughout the year.
To those who haven’t, there’s still time. We can’t think of a better last-minute gift or memorial contribution and we’re proud to publish the names of the contributors every year.
In 2007, Iredell residents and businesses have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to the capital campaigns for Fifth Street Shelter Ministries and the Boys & Girls Club. Your annual contributions to the United Way of Iredell County have helped support the work of member agencies like the Salvation Army and American Red Cross, which change the lives of your neighbors for the better every day.
And, every year since 1960, you have supported the Iredell County Department of Social Services’ efforts to raise money for the Lonely Children’s Fund, which provides financial assistance to the 100-plus foster children in our county.
For 46 years, you’ve helped DSS reach its goal by contributing enough money to provide Christmas presents and other extras throughout the year — like summer camp and band instruments — for Iredell children who, through no fault of their own, are in the custody of the state.
This year’s goal is $25,000.
So far, you’ve contributed more than $22,000, making it extremely likely that DSS will extend its streak to 47 consecutive years.To those who have given, thank you for spreading a little holiday cheer to a group of children and teenagers that truly appreciates your generosity at Christmas and throughout the year.
To those who haven’t, there’s still time. We can’t think of a better last-minute gift or memorial contribution and we’re proud to publish the names of the contributors every year.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Editorial: Tip scales of justice
Even the smallest piece of information can result in getting a potentially dangerous person off the streets and into custody.
That’s what happened Monday, when Statesville police officers arrested Andrew Darrin Ramseur in connection with the shooting deaths of two people early Sunday morning.
Assistant Chief Tom Anderson said tips from the public led to Ramseur’s arrest.
The department needs the community’s help again.
Early Saturday morning on Fourth Street, a verbal dispute resulted in a shooting that claimed the life of one Statesville resident and injured another.Robert Erskine Young, 36, was shot and later died at Iredell Memorial Hospital.
Robert Lee Ferguson was treated and released after being shot in the leg.
Two people, Darien Price and Tshilanda Rachelle Stockton, both Statesville residents, have been arrested in connection with the shooting. A third suspect, Tshilanda’s brother, Torrey Odell Stockton of Charlotte, remains at large.
If you have any information on Torrey Stockton’s whereabouts, call the police department at (704) 878-3406 or Iredell County Crime Stoppers at (704) 437-COPS.Robert Erskine Young won’t have another chance to walk the streets of Statesville, but it’s not too late for city residents to make them a safer place to be.
That’s what happened Monday, when Statesville police officers arrested Andrew Darrin Ramseur in connection with the shooting deaths of two people early Sunday morning.
Assistant Chief Tom Anderson said tips from the public led to Ramseur’s arrest.
The department needs the community’s help again.
Early Saturday morning on Fourth Street, a verbal dispute resulted in a shooting that claimed the life of one Statesville resident and injured another.Robert Erskine Young, 36, was shot and later died at Iredell Memorial Hospital.
Robert Lee Ferguson was treated and released after being shot in the leg.
Two people, Darien Price and Tshilanda Rachelle Stockton, both Statesville residents, have been arrested in connection with the shooting. A third suspect, Tshilanda’s brother, Torrey Odell Stockton of Charlotte, remains at large.
If you have any information on Torrey Stockton’s whereabouts, call the police department at (704) 878-3406 or Iredell County Crime Stoppers at (704) 437-COPS.Robert Erskine Young won’t have another chance to walk the streets of Statesville, but it’s not too late for city residents to make them a safer place to be.
Letter of the Day: Sheez brings welcome relief from gas prices
Welcome, Sheetz!
It’s about time someone brought the gas gougers in Statesville to their knees. If they are losing money, let them dip into all the extra they have been charging their customers in the past. It’s been cheaper in Alexander County all along and in Mooresville, where I live. Statesville always has the highest prices around.
I stopped at Sheetz today, and that will be my gas station from now on. Thanks, Sheetz, for coming to Statesville.
We love having you here.
Peggy Hill
Mooresville
It’s about time someone brought the gas gougers in Statesville to their knees. If they are losing money, let them dip into all the extra they have been charging their customers in the past. It’s been cheaper in Alexander County all along and in Mooresville, where I live. Statesville always has the highest prices around.
I stopped at Sheetz today, and that will be my gas station from now on. Thanks, Sheetz, for coming to Statesville.
We love having you here.
Peggy Hill
Mooresville
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Letter of the Day: Murder suspect should have faced charges last summer
It has been brought to my attention that the same guy charged with committing the robbery and murder at the Shell gas station was suspected of robbing one of my employees.
We have an ice cream truck business, and in summer 2006, an employee was robbed.
The suspect was identified by a witness who even provided the perpetrators’ name. The Statesville police responded but no charges were ever filed.
Crime starts somewhere, and if this incident had been taken more seriously by the police department, maybe two people would still be alive. I know the police department does what it can, but they need to realize that a criminal starts somewhere, and they need to take each and every crime, whether it’s petty or not, seriously.
Once a criminal gets away with something little like robbing the ice cream man, he begins to wonder “What else can I get away with?”
Jose Gamez
Olin
We have an ice cream truck business, and in summer 2006, an employee was robbed.
The suspect was identified by a witness who even provided the perpetrators’ name. The Statesville police responded but no charges were ever filed.
Crime starts somewhere, and if this incident had been taken more seriously by the police department, maybe two people would still be alive. I know the police department does what it can, but they need to realize that a criminal starts somewhere, and they need to take each and every crime, whether it’s petty or not, seriously.
Once a criminal gets away with something little like robbing the ice cream man, he begins to wonder “What else can I get away with?”
Jose Gamez
Olin
Editorial: A family in need
Jennifer Vincek probably kissed her three daughters good-bye Saturday night before heading to work the third shift at the Shell service station on East Broad Street.
Following what Statesville Police Chief Steve Hampton described as an “especially heinous” crime, that would be the last time the 29-year-old mother would ever see Areyal Sherapita, 7, Jazmyn, 2, and Samara Wright, 6 months.Vincek and regular customer Jeffrey Peck, 52, were shot and killed early Sunday morning during an armed robbery.
Andrew Darrin Ramseur, 19, has been charged with the murders.As Ramseur awaits his day in court, Vincek’s three daughters await their next meal, their next diaper change, their next bedtime story — and they wait without their mother, who just wanted to take care of her girls.
“She really wanted to provide for her family,” said Scott Eanes, senior pastor of Fairview Baptist Church, where Vincek attended services. “She was a wonderful mother.”Driven by that love for her daughters, Vincek took to working third shift, which co-workers said she feared — and perhaps rightfully so.
Now less one parent and one income, Vincek’s family is strained.Some members of the community have already stepped up to help: a memorial fund for the girls has been set up through Wachovia Bank; the Troutman Kangaroo station has a donation jar on the counter; and diapers, formula and other items can be dropped off at the Shell station on Broad Street.
Those three girls are already without their mother; they shouldn’t have to go without anything else.
Following what Statesville Police Chief Steve Hampton described as an “especially heinous” crime, that would be the last time the 29-year-old mother would ever see Areyal Sherapita, 7, Jazmyn, 2, and Samara Wright, 6 months.Vincek and regular customer Jeffrey Peck, 52, were shot and killed early Sunday morning during an armed robbery.
Andrew Darrin Ramseur, 19, has been charged with the murders.As Ramseur awaits his day in court, Vincek’s three daughters await their next meal, their next diaper change, their next bedtime story — and they wait without their mother, who just wanted to take care of her girls.
“She really wanted to provide for her family,” said Scott Eanes, senior pastor of Fairview Baptist Church, where Vincek attended services. “She was a wonderful mother.”Driven by that love for her daughters, Vincek took to working third shift, which co-workers said she feared — and perhaps rightfully so.
Now less one parent and one income, Vincek’s family is strained.Some members of the community have already stepped up to help: a memorial fund for the girls has been set up through Wachovia Bank; the Troutman Kangaroo station has a donation jar on the counter; and diapers, formula and other items can be dropped off at the Shell station on Broad Street.
Those three girls are already without their mother; they shouldn’t have to go without anything else.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Letter of the Day: A near miss at another deadly intersection on Highway 70
Thursday night, Dec. 6, was a night to remember for three of us. We were traveling on Stamey Farm Road in a newly fine-tuned car, came to a stop sign, stopped, looked carefully both ways and, when safety allowed, proceeded into the intersection to cross U.S. Highway 70, onto Bethlehem Road.
There is a curve right by the church on the corner, and to our horror a car came barreling out of the darkness from that curve.
My very best girl friend was in the back where the car was hit and received a broken collar bone. Many thanks are due to passers-by who stopped to inquire if we need help, and to the caring and gentle emergency workers, N.C. State Trooper Crane and friends who came to stand by us.
The driver and I were not injured and it is a miracle that we all survived. My friend was treated and released from Iredell Memorial Hospital and is on the mend, thanks be to God. This hampers her work as a church secretary and we ask your continuing healing prayers for her.
There is a white cross at this intersection where, I understand, a motorcyclist lost his life. This is a very dangerous area, day or night, and even though the sign reads, “Reduce Speed Ahead,” there needs to be additional signage.
Marian S. Morgan
Statesville
There is a curve right by the church on the corner, and to our horror a car came barreling out of the darkness from that curve.
My very best girl friend was in the back where the car was hit and received a broken collar bone. Many thanks are due to passers-by who stopped to inquire if we need help, and to the caring and gentle emergency workers, N.C. State Trooper Crane and friends who came to stand by us.
The driver and I were not injured and it is a miracle that we all survived. My friend was treated and released from Iredell Memorial Hospital and is on the mend, thanks be to God. This hampers her work as a church secretary and we ask your continuing healing prayers for her.
There is a white cross at this intersection where, I understand, a motorcyclist lost his life. This is a very dangerous area, day or night, and even though the sign reads, “Reduce Speed Ahead,” there needs to be additional signage.
Marian S. Morgan
Statesville
Friday, December 14, 2007
Editorial: Teens making name for themselves
There’s rarely a shortage of news to report about teens and young adults breaking the law in Iredell County. Our police blotter on Page 2A is rife with such accomplishments on an almost daily basis.
While it’s important to document criminal activity, we try to publish just as many articles celebrating the good deeds and triumphs of young people in our community. We know the troublemakers represent only a small percentage of people in any age group.
A group deserving some positive publicity — and public support — is the Teen Entrepreneurship Program. Coordinated by nonprofit Teen Health Inc., this program gives at-risk teens the knowledge and support they need to start their own business ventures.
The 15 participants have completed a 14-week program in which they have learned the basics of owning and operating their own businesses. They’ve learned how to write business plans, how to take care of their customers and how to manage money.
They’ve taken that knowledge and turned it into an array of products and services. They produce music, build skateboard decks, bake cakes, wash cars and take care of little kids.
Now they’re looking for customers.
Like any business owner, they cannot make it without a paying public. If you’re in need of any of these goods and services, stop by the Teen Expo 2007 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the South Statesville Skills Center.
We can publicize their efforts, but only you can turn this feel-good story into a great success story.
While it’s important to document criminal activity, we try to publish just as many articles celebrating the good deeds and triumphs of young people in our community. We know the troublemakers represent only a small percentage of people in any age group.
A group deserving some positive publicity — and public support — is the Teen Entrepreneurship Program. Coordinated by nonprofit Teen Health Inc., this program gives at-risk teens the knowledge and support they need to start their own business ventures.
The 15 participants have completed a 14-week program in which they have learned the basics of owning and operating their own businesses. They’ve learned how to write business plans, how to take care of their customers and how to manage money.
They’ve taken that knowledge and turned it into an array of products and services. They produce music, build skateboard decks, bake cakes, wash cars and take care of little kids.
Now they’re looking for customers.
Like any business owner, they cannot make it without a paying public. If you’re in need of any of these goods and services, stop by the Teen Expo 2007 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the South Statesville Skills Center.
We can publicize their efforts, but only you can turn this feel-good story into a great success story.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Editorial: Sub-prime bailout at taxpayers' expense
It’s becoming popular in some political circles to push for the federal government to bail out mortgage lenders and homeowners in foreclosure who are being run over by the sub-prime bandwagon.
With the presidential primary season around the corner and the general election now less than 11 months away, many in Washington will try to make political hay by saving the people from themselves and, in some cases, predatory lenders.
This is not a good expenditure of the public’s money.
We don’t think taxpayers should have to bail out these lenders, who hawked loans to people they knew would not be able to afford them when rates reset at higher rates. The scope of the federal government’s involvement with these lenders should be an investigation into their unsavory tactics and, where warranted, a tightening of regulations and oversight.
Similarly, the folks who signed on the dotted line for these risky loans should have known the deals were too good to be true. We doubt it stated in the fine print that taxpayers’ would pick up the tab if they suddenly could not make their payments.
For homeowners who are anticipating the date when their sub-prime interest rates reset in the coming months — and there are many, many more to come — now is the time to take action. Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-5th) is encouraging those who are having a difficult time making their mortgage payments to contact a group called HOPE NOW Alliance, which can help consumers save their homes and their credit. The phone number is 1-888-995-HOPE.
If you’re in this sinking boat, you’re better off taking action now. Counting on the federal government to save you is always a risky proposition.
With the presidential primary season around the corner and the general election now less than 11 months away, many in Washington will try to make political hay by saving the people from themselves and, in some cases, predatory lenders.
This is not a good expenditure of the public’s money.
We don’t think taxpayers should have to bail out these lenders, who hawked loans to people they knew would not be able to afford them when rates reset at higher rates. The scope of the federal government’s involvement with these lenders should be an investigation into their unsavory tactics and, where warranted, a tightening of regulations and oversight.
Similarly, the folks who signed on the dotted line for these risky loans should have known the deals were too good to be true. We doubt it stated in the fine print that taxpayers’ would pick up the tab if they suddenly could not make their payments.
For homeowners who are anticipating the date when their sub-prime interest rates reset in the coming months — and there are many, many more to come — now is the time to take action. Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-5th) is encouraging those who are having a difficult time making their mortgage payments to contact a group called HOPE NOW Alliance, which can help consumers save their homes and their credit. The phone number is 1-888-995-HOPE.
If you’re in this sinking boat, you’re better off taking action now. Counting on the federal government to save you is always a risky proposition.
Letter of the Day: NCDOT wasting precious time studying deadly intersection
The N.C. Department of Transportation is lucky no one else has lost their life at the deadly intersection at U.S. Highway 70 and Triplett Road. It’s taken nearly two months for DOT to make a decision on a red light, and three lives were lost there in less than two weeks.
The first, Mike Dishman, who was in his 50s, who lost his life because of the new road. Looking back and reading the past newspapers, his family said they need a light up there, but DOT didn’t listen. So the new road took the lives of a grandma, Cathy Tolbert, in her 50s, and the life of our step-granddaughter, Casey, who was 3.
There are no “what ifs” about it. There needs to be a light there to save someone else’s life. And if one had been there Oct. 20, we might not be having to spend Christmas without Casey, and her grandpa would still have his wife for Christmas.Our hearts are still breaking inside for a little girl who just last year was throwing Christmas balls off my tree and laughing about it. Only this year the balls still hang in place. But if one falls off, I think it’s Casey doing it and playing her little game with me.
So many families are grieving this Christmas for their loved one because of a new road the state had to make and didn’t have sense enough to put a light where it was needed.
So now we wait again for the DOT’s final decision that should have been done long before now. But we’re praying for the right one to be made. Maybe this Christmas we can’t give Casey any presents for her to open, but we can give her a red light with the Christmas colors — red, yellow and green. I think she would like that.
And name it after her. After all, she lost her life because of this new road. And I’m sure she would be smiling down from heaven knowing she may save someone else’s life, even though she never got to live to see another Christmas.
I told her when we were at the grave site we’re going to get her a red light, I promise. It won’t bring Casey back, but it will save someone else.
I just hope DOT says yes to a red light. I want to be there when they put it up. For God only knows how much our hearts are breaking this holiday season.
Margie Teaster
Woodleaf
The first, Mike Dishman, who was in his 50s, who lost his life because of the new road. Looking back and reading the past newspapers, his family said they need a light up there, but DOT didn’t listen. So the new road took the lives of a grandma, Cathy Tolbert, in her 50s, and the life of our step-granddaughter, Casey, who was 3.
There are no “what ifs” about it. There needs to be a light there to save someone else’s life. And if one had been there Oct. 20, we might not be having to spend Christmas without Casey, and her grandpa would still have his wife for Christmas.Our hearts are still breaking inside for a little girl who just last year was throwing Christmas balls off my tree and laughing about it. Only this year the balls still hang in place. But if one falls off, I think it’s Casey doing it and playing her little game with me.
So many families are grieving this Christmas for their loved one because of a new road the state had to make and didn’t have sense enough to put a light where it was needed.
So now we wait again for the DOT’s final decision that should have been done long before now. But we’re praying for the right one to be made. Maybe this Christmas we can’t give Casey any presents for her to open, but we can give her a red light with the Christmas colors — red, yellow and green. I think she would like that.
And name it after her. After all, she lost her life because of this new road. And I’m sure she would be smiling down from heaven knowing she may save someone else’s life, even though she never got to live to see another Christmas.
I told her when we were at the grave site we’re going to get her a red light, I promise. It won’t bring Casey back, but it will save someone else.
I just hope DOT says yes to a red light. I want to be there when they put it up. For God only knows how much our hearts are breaking this holiday season.
Margie Teaster
Woodleaf
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Letter of the Day: Criticizing methodology will not fix what’s broken in I-SS
I am responding to your recent article titled “I-SS has room to improve.”
It is obvious that the I-SS management system was behind this poorly disguised attempt to mislead the public on the true state of our educational improvements over the past two years — to the extent of discrediting the method used in grading school achievement progress levels.
Our illustrious top administrator even attempts to blame the system’s failures on poor performance of less gifted students or an unfair grading methodology.
The truth is that the areas requiring greater emphasis are not being aggressively addressed where weaknesses are apparent and common to many school districts across the nation.
The most effective way to improve the educational achievement level is to get out of the office and coffee shop and make an in-depth comprehensive evaluation of the current failures and refashion the teaching policies to directly confront those areas which contribute to and promote the status quo. Placing the blame on others can never improve a broken system.
Eugene Bost
Statesville
It is obvious that the I-SS management system was behind this poorly disguised attempt to mislead the public on the true state of our educational improvements over the past two years — to the extent of discrediting the method used in grading school achievement progress levels.
Our illustrious top administrator even attempts to blame the system’s failures on poor performance of less gifted students or an unfair grading methodology.
The truth is that the areas requiring greater emphasis are not being aggressively addressed where weaknesses are apparent and common to many school districts across the nation.
The most effective way to improve the educational achievement level is to get out of the office and coffee shop and make an in-depth comprehensive evaluation of the current failures and refashion the teaching policies to directly confront those areas which contribute to and promote the status quo. Placing the blame on others can never improve a broken system.
Eugene Bost
Statesville
Monday, December 10, 2007
Editorial: We love a parade
Hundreds of families lined Center Street on Sunday afternoon for the latest installment of the Statesville Christmas Parade.
An unusually warm December day took a turn toward the nippy just in time for the parade, and the hundred or so entries did the rest to make it a day to remember.
There were Scouts of all ages, a dozen beauty queens, youth football teams, motorcycle clubs, firetrucks, cowboys and the jolly old elf himself.
As always, the marching bands and JROTC units did their high schools proud.
Throngs of people show up each year expecting a good show with little or no thought given to the work required to pull off the parade.
They’re rarely disappointed.Thanks, Statesville Jaycees, for a great Christmas present.
Online only: Check out photos from the parade. Go to www.statesville.com and click on photo galleries.
An unusually warm December day took a turn toward the nippy just in time for the parade, and the hundred or so entries did the rest to make it a day to remember.
There were Scouts of all ages, a dozen beauty queens, youth football teams, motorcycle clubs, firetrucks, cowboys and the jolly old elf himself.
As always, the marching bands and JROTC units did their high schools proud.
Throngs of people show up each year expecting a good show with little or no thought given to the work required to pull off the parade.
They’re rarely disappointed.Thanks, Statesville Jaycees, for a great Christmas present.
Online only: Check out photos from the parade. Go to www.statesville.com and click on photo galleries.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Giving back ignites Christmas spirit
You can learn a lot about a community by ringing the Salvation Army bell for an hour.Here are a couple of lessons I learned this year:
- It’s often the people who can afford to give the least who dig the deepest in their pockets and purses to help those in need.
- The Salvation Army helps folks who need it the most. Invariably, someone who has benefited from the Red Kettle Drive will drop a handful of change or a couple of crumpled up bills in the bucket. “You never know when you’re going to need help,” a woman told me Thursday.
- During the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, we need to slow down and remember to let folks in the crosswalk, particularly the elderly and moms with little children, get across the street.
- Too many of us are grumpy during what’s supposed to be the most joyous time of the year.
Helping the Salvation Army — with a fit of money or your time — is the best way to get in the Christmas spirit.
The Salvation Army is one of the best charities in the world. They truly are doing what Jesus would do — helping “the least among us.”
Being associated with such a noble cause makes you feel good about yourself — and provides a flicker of hope in an increasingly dark world.The R&L staff recently took a day ringing the bell outside Kmart. We try to do our part and I’m always proud of my co-workers, who are eager to lend a hand for a good cause whenever asked.
(Many of our journalists are volunteering as mentors in Iredell-Statesville Schools this school year.)
One of our newest reporters, Russell Ledbetter, was one of the first to offer to ring the bell this year even though he’s only been in Statesville about a month. On the way to Kmart, he was involved in an accident and his car was totaled, giving new meaning to the phrase “no good deed goes unpunished.”
A week later, I took a turn ringing the bell outside Wal-Mart for my Rotary club.The list of bell ringers on that day read like a who’s who of caring people in Statesville. I took the bell from retired Postmaster William Jones, whose name seems to be associated with just about every good cause.
It was chilly outside and Mr. Jones was just finishing up a two-hour tour of duty. But he still had that contagious smile and gleam in his eye that told me he would have gladly rang the bell until dark.
At both locations, I had one of my boys. They love ringing the bell and dancing around the red kettle. Their efforts brought smiles to all but the biggest Scrooge and, I’m sure, increased donations.
Mike Fuhrman is the editor of the R&L. He can be reached at mfuhrman@statesville.com.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Editorial: Federal mandate helps educators keep focus
Public school administrators across the nation have plenty of reasons to take issue with No Child Left Behind, the federal law that, simply put, requires all students to be on grade level and holds educators accountable.
Recently, Iredell-Statesville Schools officials have been critical of the law, which sets achievement expectations for individual schools and districts, because it attaches labels and doles out sanctions, for lack of a better term, on entities that fall short.
I-SS is now classified as “a school district in improvement,” which is a politically correct way of saying it has not met all of the goals spelled out by NCLB.
The labeling, I-SS officials contend, is detrimental to schools, administrators and teachers who have dedicated their professional lives to helping children reach their academic potential.
Superintendent Terry Holliday said the new label — and the letter sent to 15,000 homes notifying parents of the district’s dubious distinction — sends the wrong message.
The district has made great strides in recent years — from reducing the dropout rate to improving SAT scores — and met 91 percent of the NCLB goals.
Those achievements, Holliday said, should be applauded, not slapped with a label that would lead the truly uninformed to believe I-SS schools are not making the grade.
The superintendent is right.
We also believe Holliday when he says that I-SS teachers and administrators would be focused on the underlying goals of NCLB even if it were not the law of the land. The district’s schools are filled with educators who put in long hours to help our students succeed.
But it would be naive to suggest that every teacher and every administrator in every school in every state was on par with I-SS. Having a federal law — with some bite — helps keep everyone’s eyes and attention focused on doing what is morally and ethically right.
In a perfect world, Congress wouldn’t have to tell educators that every child, regardless of their skin color, native language or the amount of money their parents have, is deserving of a shot at a sound education.
But our state and our nation’s history proves that, without federal intervention, many children would be left way behind.
Recently, Iredell-Statesville Schools officials have been critical of the law, which sets achievement expectations for individual schools and districts, because it attaches labels and doles out sanctions, for lack of a better term, on entities that fall short.
I-SS is now classified as “a school district in improvement,” which is a politically correct way of saying it has not met all of the goals spelled out by NCLB.
The labeling, I-SS officials contend, is detrimental to schools, administrators and teachers who have dedicated their professional lives to helping children reach their academic potential.
Superintendent Terry Holliday said the new label — and the letter sent to 15,000 homes notifying parents of the district’s dubious distinction — sends the wrong message.
The district has made great strides in recent years — from reducing the dropout rate to improving SAT scores — and met 91 percent of the NCLB goals.
Those achievements, Holliday said, should be applauded, not slapped with a label that would lead the truly uninformed to believe I-SS schools are not making the grade.
The superintendent is right.
We also believe Holliday when he says that I-SS teachers and administrators would be focused on the underlying goals of NCLB even if it were not the law of the land. The district’s schools are filled with educators who put in long hours to help our students succeed.
But it would be naive to suggest that every teacher and every administrator in every school in every state was on par with I-SS. Having a federal law — with some bite — helps keep everyone’s eyes and attention focused on doing what is morally and ethically right.
In a perfect world, Congress wouldn’t have to tell educators that every child, regardless of their skin color, native language or the amount of money their parents have, is deserving of a shot at a sound education.
But our state and our nation’s history proves that, without federal intervention, many children would be left way behind.
Friday, December 7, 2007
What should the city's resolution be?
As we all craft our new year's resolutions, on what do you think the City of Statesville should focus?
Leave your ideas in comments below.
Leave your ideas in comments below.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Editorial: A waste of time
The brewing controversy over the state community college system’s requirement that its 58 member institutions admit and educate undocumented students would be laughable if it wasn’t such a colossal waste of time and energy.
The Southern border, the factory floor and corporate boardrooms should be the frontline for this battle.
Americans want their elected representatives to take a stand on this issue once and for all and secure our borders. The best way to do that is to ensure that illegal immigrants don’t find work once they get here.
Our chief executive and commander-in-chief, President Bush, has done nothing to stem the flow of illegal immigrants across our borders. If there’s been a genuine stand along our border or a major crackdown against companies for hiring undocumented workers, we missed the news flash.
Lawmakers in Washington — when the Republicans were in charge and now that the U.S. House and Senate are controlled by the Democrats — have done nothing.
Now some people want community colleges to enforce our immigration laws. That’s beyond absurd.
The fact that politicians in Raleigh and elsewhere are trying to make political hay on this issue shows their failure to grasp the root causes of this issue.
The fact is, our state’s community colleges have not been overrun by illegal immigrants. Here in Iredell County, Mitchell Community College officials are confident they don’t have a single undocumented student in their degree-seeking programs. And, given the fact that these students would be forced to pay more than $7,000 for tuition, they don’t expect the admissions office to be deluged with applicants.
All of the anger being directed at our state’s community colleges should be rerouted to Washington, D.C.
The Southern border, the factory floor and corporate boardrooms should be the frontline for this battle.
Americans want their elected representatives to take a stand on this issue once and for all and secure our borders. The best way to do that is to ensure that illegal immigrants don’t find work once they get here.
Our chief executive and commander-in-chief, President Bush, has done nothing to stem the flow of illegal immigrants across our borders. If there’s been a genuine stand along our border or a major crackdown against companies for hiring undocumented workers, we missed the news flash.
Lawmakers in Washington — when the Republicans were in charge and now that the U.S. House and Senate are controlled by the Democrats — have done nothing.
Now some people want community colleges to enforce our immigration laws. That’s beyond absurd.
The fact that politicians in Raleigh and elsewhere are trying to make political hay on this issue shows their failure to grasp the root causes of this issue.
The fact is, our state’s community colleges have not been overrun by illegal immigrants. Here in Iredell County, Mitchell Community College officials are confident they don’t have a single undocumented student in their degree-seeking programs. And, given the fact that these students would be forced to pay more than $7,000 for tuition, they don’t expect the admissions office to be deluged with applicants.
All of the anger being directed at our state’s community colleges should be rerouted to Washington, D.C.
Letter of the Day: Democratic hopefuls cannot see all of the good Bush has done
We can — and should — forgive Jim Calabrese for his statement in his recent letter that “today we have lost the respect of the world.”
However, we cannot and should not forgive Sen. Hillary Clinton and others running for the presidency when they make such statements.
Mr. Calabrese is expressing his opinion, for which our troops have and are fighting to allow him and many millions of others around the world to be able to do so without fear of imprisonment or death.
This is one of the main things that makes America “the greatest nation in the world,” as French President Nicolas Sarkozy said of America in his recent speech before our Congress.
That is in stark contrast to statements by Jacques Chirac, who was president of France when Bill Clinton was our president.
Mr. Calabrese does not have the power to affect the lives of millions of Americans as well as millions of other people around the world. However, Hillary Clinton and the other presidential candidates could have that power if one of them wins the election.
Despite the best efforts of former presidents Jimmy Carter, Clinton and former presidential candidate John Kerry to turn the world against America because they did not agree with President Bush’s foreign policy, they have failed. In addition to France, Germany has elected a pro-American, Angela Merkel, as their leader. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said in a recent interview with Sky News that “great change is taking place, in addition to France and Germany the European Union is also moving more closely with America.”
Australia is very close to America. Libya gave up their weapons of mass destruction in an effort to move close to America. Canada is showing incredible steadfastness in taking disproportionate casualties while supporting the NATO mission in Afghanistan.
Democratic presidential hopefuls cannot see those nations and people who have moved close to America with George W. Bush as our president. Yet one of them can see UFOs. God help us all if one of them moves into the White House in 2009.
Paul A. Lowe
Hiddenite
However, we cannot and should not forgive Sen. Hillary Clinton and others running for the presidency when they make such statements.
Mr. Calabrese is expressing his opinion, for which our troops have and are fighting to allow him and many millions of others around the world to be able to do so without fear of imprisonment or death.
This is one of the main things that makes America “the greatest nation in the world,” as French President Nicolas Sarkozy said of America in his recent speech before our Congress.
That is in stark contrast to statements by Jacques Chirac, who was president of France when Bill Clinton was our president.
Mr. Calabrese does not have the power to affect the lives of millions of Americans as well as millions of other people around the world. However, Hillary Clinton and the other presidential candidates could have that power if one of them wins the election.
Despite the best efforts of former presidents Jimmy Carter, Clinton and former presidential candidate John Kerry to turn the world against America because they did not agree with President Bush’s foreign policy, they have failed. In addition to France, Germany has elected a pro-American, Angela Merkel, as their leader. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said in a recent interview with Sky News that “great change is taking place, in addition to France and Germany the European Union is also moving more closely with America.”
Australia is very close to America. Libya gave up their weapons of mass destruction in an effort to move close to America. Canada is showing incredible steadfastness in taking disproportionate casualties while supporting the NATO mission in Afghanistan.
Democratic presidential hopefuls cannot see those nations and people who have moved close to America with George W. Bush as our president. Yet one of them can see UFOs. God help us all if one of them moves into the White House in 2009.
Paul A. Lowe
Hiddenite
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Letter of the Day: Today's politicians, campaigns are lacking in real honesty
One of the hardest things to bare in this election season is all the talk by candidates about the “greatness of the American people.” The Bible warns us repeatedly about speech like this. “By smooth talk and flattery they deceived the minds of naive people.” (Romans 16:18)
However, the electorate likes to hear it. It is reassuring to think that we are members of a multitude possessing supernatural wisdom.
Of course, such a wise assembly needs leaders to secure for all of us the rich and appropriate gifts we deserve, right? Accordingly, campaigners promise a host of things no one can afford.
Free elections are wonderful, but what if we begin to think that the government owes us a living? What if we come to believe all the drivel about our own superiority?
There is a greatness about America, but most of it was purchased by the blood, sweat and tears of men and women who came before us. Their footprints are still visible on the paths of humility and service.
However, the last time I looked, there were few George Washingtons in either political party willing to tell the people the truth about themselves and the God who enabled such a nation to rise.
Ted Simonson
Statesville
However, the electorate likes to hear it. It is reassuring to think that we are members of a multitude possessing supernatural wisdom.
Of course, such a wise assembly needs leaders to secure for all of us the rich and appropriate gifts we deserve, right? Accordingly, campaigners promise a host of things no one can afford.
Free elections are wonderful, but what if we begin to think that the government owes us a living? What if we come to believe all the drivel about our own superiority?
There is a greatness about America, but most of it was purchased by the blood, sweat and tears of men and women who came before us. Their footprints are still visible on the paths of humility and service.
However, the last time I looked, there were few George Washingtons in either political party willing to tell the people the truth about themselves and the God who enabled such a nation to rise.
Ted Simonson
Statesville
Monday, December 3, 2007
Editorial: Making the Grinch look good
It takes a special breed of criminal to use the name of a children’s home as part of a scam to line his own pockets.
That’s what Statesville police have charged Tony Lee Baynard with doing.Baynard, 47, is accused of ripping off at least three people by claiming he was collecting money for the Barium Springs Home for Children. He was not authorized to solicit donations for the nonprofit and never gave the organization any money.
This is the time of year when generous people like to share their good fortune by helping those who need a hand up. And there are plenty of local organizations who can turn those contributions into a better life for someone who is down and out.
It’s also the time of year when con artists are on the prowl trying to make a few bucks the easy way.
Don’t let the type of crime Tony Lee Baynard is accused of perpetrating deter you from helping others this holiday season. Most legitimate charitable organizations refrain from door-to-door soliciting.
You can protect yourself by contacting the nonprofits you want to support directly and asking how to give.
That’s what Statesville police have charged Tony Lee Baynard with doing.Baynard, 47, is accused of ripping off at least three people by claiming he was collecting money for the Barium Springs Home for Children. He was not authorized to solicit donations for the nonprofit and never gave the organization any money.
This is the time of year when generous people like to share their good fortune by helping those who need a hand up. And there are plenty of local organizations who can turn those contributions into a better life for someone who is down and out.
It’s also the time of year when con artists are on the prowl trying to make a few bucks the easy way.
Don’t let the type of crime Tony Lee Baynard is accused of perpetrating deter you from helping others this holiday season. Most legitimate charitable organizations refrain from door-to-door soliciting.
You can protect yourself by contacting the nonprofits you want to support directly and asking how to give.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Editorial: Thanks for 22 years
Statesville City Council members and staffers will pay tribute Monday evening to one of the longest-serving council members in city history.Former Councilman A.E. “Pete” Peterson, who retired earlier this year for health reasons, will be honored for his 22 years of service to the city at the council’s regular meeting. The council will present Mr. Peterson with a plaque honoring him for his work and thank him personally for his efforts.It is a rare person who devotes that much time, for little money and even less notoriety, to working for the betterment of his community. We join the council in saluting Mr. Peterson for his commitment to our great city.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Friday, Oct. 19
J.R. Munoz-McNally is talking to a local twentysomething who recently hiked the Appalachian Trail -- by himself.
Donna Swicegood has the verdict from the rape/assault trail for tomorrow's paper, as well as a story about a candlelight vigil held in remembrance of the victims of child abuse.
Chyna Broadnax continues coverage of the United Way campaign.
Donna Swicegood has the verdict from the rape/assault trail for tomorrow's paper, as well as a story about a candlelight vigil held in remembrance of the victims of child abuse.
Chyna Broadnax continues coverage of the United Way campaign.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Wednesday, Oct. 17
Donna Swicegood reports from the courthouse as the victim of a brutal rape and assault is scheduled to take the stand. Donna is also following a fatal wreck that last night claimed at least one person's life.
Chyna Broadnax has talked with several students who attest to JROTC's influence on their schoolwork and at home.
J.R. Munoz-McNally has a feature about an elderly Statesville woman who lost her husband, house and dog and was helped into a new place by strangers.
Chyna Broadnax has talked with several students who attest to JROTC's influence on their schoolwork and at home.
J.R. Munoz-McNally has a feature about an elderly Statesville woman who lost her husband, house and dog and was helped into a new place by strangers.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Weekend of Oct. 13-15
Here's what's in the works for the Saturday, Sunday and Monday editions of the R&L:
Bethany Fuller has a multimedia report on textile mills in Iredell County. Read about the past, present and future of the industry, then go to our Web site where IMD content producer Jess Norman has put together a photo gallery featuring O.C. Stonestreet's commentary.
Bethany will also have the latest on a new flying service operating out of the Statesville Regional Airport.
J.R. Munoz-McNally traveled to Greenville, S.C., with the Statesville Chamber of Commerce to figure out why the group is looking to Greenville as a model for our city.
Donna Swicegood is researching what happens to the millions of dollars seized during traffic stops, house raids and the like. She also has an update on Derek Poole, a local firefighter who was injured in a wreck.
Chyna Broadnax will have a story on hospice workers, why they go into the line of work they do and how they cope with loss.
Chyna will also let you know this weekend where to find pumpkins for Halloween this year.
Bethany Fuller has a multimedia report on textile mills in Iredell County. Read about the past, present and future of the industry, then go to our Web site where IMD content producer Jess Norman has put together a photo gallery featuring O.C. Stonestreet's commentary.
Bethany will also have the latest on a new flying service operating out of the Statesville Regional Airport.
J.R. Munoz-McNally traveled to Greenville, S.C., with the Statesville Chamber of Commerce to figure out why the group is looking to Greenville as a model for our city.
Donna Swicegood is researching what happens to the millions of dollars seized during traffic stops, house raids and the like. She also has an update on Derek Poole, a local firefighter who was injured in a wreck.
Chyna Broadnax will have a story on hospice workers, why they go into the line of work they do and how they cope with loss.
Chyna will also let you know this weekend where to find pumpkins for Halloween this year.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Friday, Oct. 12
Bethany Fuller has a feature on a skate shop set to open in downtown and the boy who helped fuel the business with ideas.
Donna Swicegood investigates the safety -- or lack thereof -- of the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and Triplett Road.
Jim McNally is going to the Town of Troutman Board meeting.
Chyna Broadnax reports on school administrators, teachers and staff who will be working at McDonald's to raise money for their schools.
Donna Swicegood investigates the safety -- or lack thereof -- of the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and Triplett Road.
Jim McNally is going to the Town of Troutman Board meeting.
Chyna Broadnax reports on school administrators, teachers and staff who will be working at McDonald's to raise money for their schools.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Friday, Oct. 5
Bethany Fuller has breaking news about a gun found at East Iredell Middle School.
J.R. Munoz-McNally will update readers on the city council election races in Wards 3 and 6, and also turn a story about N.C. governor hopeful Richard Moore, who made a stop in Statesville on Thursday.
J.R. Munoz-McNally will update readers on the city council election races in Wards 3 and 6, and also turn a story about N.C. governor hopeful Richard Moore, who made a stop in Statesville on Thursday.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Thursday, Oct. 4
Bethany Fuller is working on a story about an N.C. biodiesel plant owner who wants to open his facility to Snow Creek Road residents and anyone else interested.
Chyna Broadnax has the latest on United Way's fundraising campaign.
Jim McNally is researching the feasibility of getting a skateboarding park in Statesville.
Chyna Broadnax has the latest on United Way's fundraising campaign.
Jim McNally is researching the feasibility of getting a skateboarding park in Statesville.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Friday, Sept. 28
J.R. Munoz-McNally will be reporting from Thursday Night Out in Troutman, as well as find out what Statesville City Council has planned for Monday's meeting.
Brad Norman will have another story about the national skateboarding championships downtown.
Chyna Broadnax reports on Cornerstone Christian Academy, which has finally secured the money to expand to accommodate its at-capacity student population.
Brad Norman will have another story about the national skateboarding championships downtown.
Chyna Broadnax reports on Cornerstone Christian Academy, which has finally secured the money to expand to accommodate its at-capacity student population.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Thursday, Sept. 27
J.R. Munoz-McNally will have a feature story on a mother who was told it would be best to not proceed with her pregnancy, but she did anyway and the child turns 1 next week.
Donna Swicegood reports on the first-ever firefighter training academy at Mitchell Community College.
Chyna Broadnax went to N.B. Mills for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of a reading corner the Charlotte Bobcats have sponsored at the school.
Bethany Fuller follows up on more anonymous complaints filed against those who oppose the biodiesel plant on Snow Creek Road.
Donna Swicegood reports on the first-ever firefighter training academy at Mitchell Community College.
Chyna Broadnax went to N.B. Mills for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of a reading corner the Charlotte Bobcats have sponsored at the school.
Bethany Fuller follows up on more anonymous complaints filed against those who oppose the biodiesel plant on Snow Creek Road.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Wednesday, Sept. 26
Chyna Broadnax details a new semester program at Statesville Christian School that allows students to get a glimpse of career paths.
Donna Swicegood has a story about a mother outraged at how a local school reacted after her daughter alleged another student inappropriately touched her.
Bethany Fuller has the latest on voluntary local water restrictions and will also have a story about where you can get your flu shot this fall.
Donna Swicegood has a story about a mother outraged at how a local school reacted after her daughter alleged another student inappropriately touched her.
Bethany Fuller has the latest on voluntary local water restrictions and will also have a story about where you can get your flu shot this fall.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Thursday, Sept. 20
Chyna Broadnax will have a story about Fifth Street receiving a very large donation toward its capital campaign, as well as information about infant mortality rates around Iredell County.
J.R. Munoz-McNally is writing a column about the spelling bee held Tuesday at the Civic Center. He'll also be previewing a health fair sponsored by the NAACP.
Bethany Fuller has the latest on the Iredell County Parks and Recreation Deparment's progress with making Iredell a little bit greener.
Donna Swicegood is previewing a poker run the Statesville Police Department will hold on Sept. 29.
J.R. Munoz-McNally is writing a column about the spelling bee held Tuesday at the Civic Center. He'll also be previewing a health fair sponsored by the NAACP.
Bethany Fuller has the latest on the Iredell County Parks and Recreation Deparment's progress with making Iredell a little bit greener.
Donna Swicegood is previewing a poker run the Statesville Police Department will hold on Sept. 29.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Tuesday, Sept. 18
Here's what we're working on for Tuesday, Sept. 18:
- Jim McNally reports on City Council decisions regarding special events and alcohol.
- Donna Swicegood will have the latest on drug arrests, including what deputies found in a closet after responding to a larceny complaint.
- Donna will also share one family's struggle to find information regarding their missing teen.
- And Bethany Fuller will prepare you for what to expect at the County Commission meeting Tuesday night, including a landfill expansion project.
Have a story idea or lead you'd like the R&L to know about? E-mail it to news@statesville.com.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Thursday, Sept. 7
Here's what we're working on for tomorrow's paper:
- Bethany Fuller is furthering her work with stories on the proposed biodiesel plant. Residents of Snow Creek Road are planning a lawsuit. Pick up the paper Thursday to read more.
- Also coming from Bethany, how hard is it to leave work behind when you go on vacation?
- Jim McNally is headed to the Iredell County Fair to take in the pig racing, bull-riding and fun-having. He'll also take a look at how the scads of people heading into Troutman for the event is affecting the town.
- Chyna Broadnax has the latest on the United Way of Iredell County's fundraising campaign.
- Donna Swicegood will report on the opening statements and maybe some testimony in a sex abuse case.
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