HAMLET — North Carolina Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry took office 10 years after the fire at Imperial Foods in Hamlet, but that gap has not distanced her from the responsibilities of enforcing labor safety reforms made in the tragedy’s wake.

“The tragic fire at Imperial Foods in Hamlet in 1991 led to major reform in 1992 by the N.C. General Assembly,” Berry said in an email to the Daily Journal. “The reform included an expansion of the number of OSH compliance officers, enforcement focus on high-risk industries and the authorization of fines to be levied against governmental entities for noncompliance.”

Berry said the fire sparked an intense interest by state and local officials in certain industrial markers that can successfully illustrate improvements made in workplace safety and compliance.

“After the Imperial Foods tragedy, North Carolina’s injury and illness rate for private industry stood at an all-time high of 8.6 per 100 full-time workers in 1992,” she said. “I mention the injury and illness rate because it is the best tool we have to measure our state’s performance in terms of workplace safety and health. The injury and illness rate is produced by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.”

Berry is able to demonstrate statistical evidence that conditions have improved even further during her tenure.

“In 2000, the year before I took office as labor commissioner for my first elected term, the injury and illness rate stood at 5.3 per 100 full-time workers,” Berry said. “The rate had declined between 1992 and 2000, but was still high. During my administration, from January 2001 to present, the rate has continued to decline and now rests at a historic low 2.7 per 100 full-time workers.”

The reason for the decline in injuries and illnesses in the private sector, Berry said, is the product of gradual partnerships and incentives initiated by the state labor department and the high participation rates of employers.

“Much of North Carolina’s success in the injury and illness rate decline is attributed to the many employers and employees who have proactively partnered with the N.C. Department of Labor through our recognition programs, partnerships and alliances,” Berry said. “These programs are helping create a safety culture from the mountains to the coast because they engage workers at all levels, from management to the frontline workers.”

Reach reporter Melonie McLaurin at 910-817-2673 and follow her on Twitter @melonieflomer.

This graph provided by the office of North Carolina Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry shows a steady decline in injury and illness rates in private-sector jobs in the state.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Injury-and-Illness-Rate-Private-Sector-2000-2013.jpg This graph provided by the office of North Carolina Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry shows a steady decline in injury and illness rates in private-sector jobs in the state.

Berry

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Berry.jpg Berry

SOUTHERN PINES — A Hamlet man was arrested Wednesday on felony shoplifting charges from late July.

James Warren Sower, 40, of 305 Hylan Ave., is charged with five counts of larceny from a merchant by destroying or deactivating an anti-theft or inventory control device, according to jail booking records.

An offense date of July 26 is listed for each charge.

Sower has a history of criminal convictions in Richmond, Moore, Scotland, Randolph, Montgomery, Rockingham and Wake counties dating back to 1997. His most recent conviction came on a Moore County charge of driving while license revoked in August 2010.

State records show Sower has been convicted of theft-related charges in 2007, 2006, 2004, 1999, 1998 and 1997.

Typically a misdemeanor offense, shoplifting is prosecuted as a Class H felony when security sensors, ink tags or other devices designed to deter theft are removed, altered or destroyed.

— Corey Friedman

Sower

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Sower-mug1.jpg Sower

ROCKINGHAM — Scott Taunton, his wife Josie and daughter Gaby welcomed Richmond County Chamber of Commerce and local officials to their new tactical supply business Thursday as they cut the ceremonial red ribbon to officially open the store.

Scott’s Tactical Supply, 214 N. Long Drive, buys and sells firearms and provides products for shooting sports, gear, guns, ammo and hunting supplies. The shop also offers gunsmith services.

Taunton is a state-certified concealed-carry handgun instructor and NRA-certified pistol instructor and is currently working on scheduling monthly classes.

“We share a passion for all things guns and gear,” said Taunton. “We have a wide variety of products and keep as many guns, parts and ammunition on hand as possible, so that we can ship them to your front door or have you pick them up from a licensed FFL dealer.”

Taunton said he was trying to bring the online feeling to an actual business, but those looking for firearms or related items can still search the shop’s online catalog that includes more than 16,000 products to choose from at www.scottstactical.com.

Scott’s Tactical Supply is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

— Matt Harrelson

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Scott Taunton, owner of Scott’s Tactical Supply on Long Drive in Rockingham, cuts the ceremonial red ribbon Thursday surrounded by Richmond County Chamber of Commerce Chairman Brian Baucom, Chamber President Emily Tucker, Chamber Ambassador Elsie Cromer, Josie Taunton, Richmond County Commissioner Thad Ussery and Rockingham Mayor Steve Morris.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_DSC_00131.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Scott Taunton, owner of Scott’s Tactical Supply on Long Drive in Rockingham, cuts the ceremonial red ribbon Thursday surrounded by Richmond County Chamber of Commerce Chairman Brian Baucom, Chamber President Emily Tucker, Chamber Ambassador Elsie Cromer, Josie Taunton, Richmond County Commissioner Thad Ussery and Rockingham Mayor Steve Morris.

MONROE — Country music star and Richmond County native Bucky Covington is slated to host the 2015 Artists Music Guild Heritage Awards scheduled to take place Nov. 14 at the AG Convention Center.

Last year’s show was hosted by fellow country music star Billy Gilman and famed puppet Lamb Chop.

Covington will be in rare company. There are scheduled performances by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas (“Dancing in the Street”), Dee Dee Sharp (“Mashed Potato Time”), Billy Paul (“Mrs. Jones”), Melanie Safka (“Brand New Key”), Chubby Checker (“The Twist”), David and the Giants (“Riders in the Sky”), David L. Cook (“Drop That Rock”), Mike Manuel (“Got My Name in the Big Book”) plus many more.

Covington first rose to fame as a finalist in the 2005-06 season of “American Idol.” He came in eighth and used that experience as a platform to launch his country music career. Covington released his self-titled album in 2007 and was immediately ranked No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Album chart. That album also brought three hit singles to Covington’s list of accomplishments.

“I am thrilled to have Bucky as this year’s host,” said David L. Cook, the guild’s president and a Christian music artist. “Bucky is from the Rockingham area which is just a county or two over from Monroe, and I am sure many of his fans will love to come and see him during his visit back home. While that is a nice addition, the reason we felt Bucky was a perfect candidate to be our host was as an educational organization, it is important for these young people to understand that if they put their mind to it, they can achieve anything they set out to do.

“Bucky is a prime example that if you have a dream, all you have to do is take one step toward it. Therefore, it’s a thrill to have him come and share that with these kids! This is also the guild’s fifth anniversary and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a great awards show broadcast and premier talent.”

For more information on the program or to purchase tickets, call the AMG offices at 704-282-1164 and visit www.ArtistsMusicGuild.com.

Courtesy photo Bucky Covington, a Richmond County native and country music recording artist, will host the 2015 Artists Music Guild Heritage Awards this fall in Monroe.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Bucky.jpg Courtesy photo Bucky Covington, a Richmond County native and country music recording artist, will host the 2015 Artists Music Guild Heritage Awards this fall in Monroe.

ROCKINGHAM — The United Way of Richmond County kicks off its annual campaign Sept. 10 with a Day of Caring, bringing volunteers from all corners of the county together to work on community projects.

Executive Director Michelle Parrish said the event will begin bright and early, at 7:30 a.m. at the Cole Auditorium where 16 partnering agencies will set up and map out the day’s many activities.

Keith Parsons of CommunityOne Bank will greet everyone before the Rev. Steve Crews of Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy gives the invocation.

Sheriff James Clemmons will address the group with a speech in remembrance of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Parrish will reveal the 2015-16 campaign goal at about 9 a.m. before offering closing remarks. Last year, the campaign raised $281,000. The previous year, the United Way drive netted $250,000.

Door prizes from the partnering agencies will be given before all of the volunteers disperse to their destinations to work in a spirit of community service.

“They like to get an early start,” Parrish said. “This year our volunteers will complete 10 projects — the most we’ve ever had. And we’ll have about 150 volunteers helping to complete the projects.”

At Sandhills Children’s Center and Cordova School, some of the volunteers will tell stories to the children while the others work at tasks such as grounds beautification and painting.

“The Cordova students are learning how to make apple dumplings,” Parrish said. “They are going to give those to the volunteers, and that’s very special.”

Backpack Pals will be stuffing backpacks with extra food for some of the county’s neediest children to take home with them on Fridays throughout the school year.

Habitat for Humanity will be working on a wheelchair ramp and a deck.

The East Rockingham, Hamlet and Ellerbe senior centers will host groups of volunteers who will serve lunch to the seniors and facilitate socializing and games.

The buildings housing Our Daily Bread’s food bank ministry and the Samaritan Colony will be receiving fresh coats of paint.

“And last is a really special project that’s new this year,” Parrish said. “We will be installing free smoke alarms with the American Red Cross. We’re doing about 21, maybe more, that day. What makes this special is it’s an ongoing project that the American Red Cross is working on with local fire departments, medics and other volunteers.”

The free smoke alarms, Parrish said, are available to anyone and everyone who needs one. Residents will receive training on basic fire safety, such as making sure there is a home escape route.

“And these new fire alarms are really cool,” Parrish said. “They have the lithium batteries that last 10 years. This is free. All anyone needs to do is call.”

To request a new, free smoke alarm, call Cynthia Bradley at the American Red Cross at 910-692-8571.

Reach reporter Melonie McLaurin at 910-817-2673 and follow her on Twitter @melonieflomer.

Contributed photo Volunteers construct a gardening shed behind Sandhills Children’s Center in Rockingham on the United Way Day of Caring, 2014.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_SandhillsChildrensCenter.jpg Contributed photo Volunteers construct a gardening shed behind Sandhills Children’s Center in Rockingham on the United Way Day of Caring, 2014.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal

Kids roll down the hill beside the stage at Cole Plaza in downtown Rockingham while Too Much Sylvia performs for the crowd.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal

According to the group’s website, Too Much Sylvia performs 100 times a year, and 2015 marks the bandmates’ 24th year together. Their Plaza Jam performance Thursday night is one of the concerts this year that will put them over 2,400 as a group.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal

Richmond County residents listen to Too Much Sylvia Thursday night at Cole Plaza while kids play in the background.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Kids roll down the hill beside the stage at Cole Plaza in downtown Rockingham while Too Much Sylvia performs for the crowd.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Plaza-Jam-1.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Kids roll down the hill beside the stage at Cole Plaza in downtown Rockingham while Too Much Sylvia performs for the crowd.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal According to the group’s website, Too Much Sylvia performs 100 times a year, and 2015 marks the bandmates’ 24th year together. Their Plaza Jam performance Thursday night is one of the concerts this year that will put them over 2,400 as a group.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Plaza-Jam-2.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal According to the group’s website, Too Much Sylvia performs 100 times a year, and 2015 marks the bandmates’ 24th year together. Their Plaza Jam performance Thursday night is one of the concerts this year that will put them over 2,400 as a group.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Richmond County residents listen to Too Much Sylvia Thursday night at Cole Plaza while kids play in the background.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Plaza-Jam-3.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Richmond County residents listen to Too Much Sylvia Thursday night at Cole Plaza while kids play in the background.

HAMLET — Richmond County Schools leapt forward in student achievement and overall performance during the 2014-15 school year, according to the N.C. Department of Public Instruction’s annual growth report.

In the district, 87.5 percent of area schools met or exceeded growth expectations. Eight schools exceeded state growth expectations and six schools met them, but even the two schools that “did not meet” expected growth missed the mark by less than one point on the combined growth scale, according to state and local figures released Wednesday.

Throughout the district, one school received an A, no schools received a B, 10 schools received a C and three schools received a D letter grade.

“School districts do not receive letter grades, but individual schools do,” school system spokeswoman Ashley Thublin said.

According to the Educator Value-Added Assessment System, eight schools in Richmond County exceeded state growth expectations, and six school met them. The two schools that “did not meet” expected growth missed the mark by less than one point on the combined growth scale.

Thublin said that for the 2013-14 school year, Richmond County Schools’ EVAAS growth score was 66.7 percent.

In a Wednesday news release, she outlined the types of data used to determine district performance.

“The N.C. Department of Public Instruction’s annual growth report measures where a student started from and how far they moved by examining historical test data among their peers,” she wrote. “The indicators for elementary and middle school performance grades is the percent proficient on end-of-grade and end-of-course tests. At the high school level, EOC data is looked at in addition to ACT outcomes, WorkKeys results, math course rigor as well as the four-year cohort graduation rate.”

According to Thublin, student achievement and growth are combined to calculate each school’s overall performance. A school’s overall performance grade is made up of 20 percent growth and 80 percent student achievement.

The EVAAS growth status among schools in Richmond County has increased by almost 35 percent since 2013. This trend can be seen across North Carolina.

The new numbers “affirm the hard work of our teachers, students and staff,” said Richmond County Schools Superintendent Dr. Cindy Goodman. “It shows a great sense of teamwork, and we’re excited by the results.”

The district’s overall graduation rate was its highest ever at 80.8 percent.

“I am proud of the fact that the percentage of schools within our district that met the growth standard is above the state average and well above the region average,” Goodman said. “I have been reviewing data from the past several years, and Richmond County Schools is outpacing our benchmark districts in terms of proficiency as well as growth.”

Richmond County Board of Education Chairman Wiley Mabe said that while he is proud of the improvements made, the ultimate goal is for every student to graduate educated and ready for work or college.

“We have been working on key goals that began when Dr. George Norris came on,” Mabe said. “This is continuing under Dr. Goodman. There has been a wider community influence here for so long that certain aspects of education are not important. We’ve got to stem that tide and turn the boat around and get everybody thinking that good grades are important.”

Mabe said this requires ongoing effort and support from all stakeholders.

“It begins at home, and we are encouraging our students to come to school every day,” Mabe said. “One of Dr. Goodman’s focuses is attendance and the reality that if you are not in the classroom, you are not learning. We have parents and guardians who allow their kids to miss a lot of days and be tardy a lot. And that’s system-wide.”

Mabe said that with early college high school, the high school at Ashley Chapel and the district’s partnership with Richmond Community College, it is possible to reach higher goals.

“Employers are looking for people with high energy who are willing to do things,” Mabe said. “You’ve got to grow every day. There is no resting place and you have to keep trying. Once get where you think you want to be, that’s not the time to settle in. There is always something to improve.”

Asked about the uptick in student performance as reported by the Department of Public Instruction, Mabe offered a possible explanation.

“We were not in line with other school systems in the state before,” he said. “They had elementary, middle and high schools and we had elementary, junior high and then high school. Dr. Norris got here and we decided to switch over to the system used by the other districts across the state. We are still pedaling down hard on that.”

Mabe said that the school system has only one thing to offer the world: An educated student.

“A lot of people forget that,” he said. “People think that good grades are not important. Education has always been important to me. If a person can read, and read well, they can look after themselves. They can read a document or article and gain something from it.”

On the importance of writing well, Mabe followed the prevailing logic of the day.

“That’s hand in hand with reading,” he said. “If you read well, you write well. They are the same thing. You can’t do one without the other. If you find someone who is a good writer, that person is also a good reader. It’s the same for a student or a person on the job.”

Mabe said the days when people could get by with a third-grade education, barely literate but able to perform menial tasks and still make a living, are long past.

“It used to be you could leave school without knowing how to read well, get a job working in a mill or sewing,” he said. “That’s gone now. It’s not coming back. The world has changed. We’re teaching coding to third-graders. That’s becoming important and affects everything. Medicine has gone to the electronic age.”

Mabe said that even in the automotive industry, there’s no such thing as a “mechanic” any longer.

“There aren’t mechanics anymore,” he said. “There are technicians. The vehicles won’t run if the computer system on board’s not right.”

The strides made in the school district, backed up by the NCDPI data, show that the the county is moving in a positive direction, according to Mabe. But now is not the time to grow complacent.

“I think that we’ve all looked at the big picture as well as the data,” he said. “We’ve talked about it, and in order to get an educated workforce you’ve got to push, pull or get out of the way in order to reach that goal. We know it’s not going to happen overnight and we are satisfied with this improvement as long as it is continued improvement. We want a 100 percent graduation rate. We want every student ready for employment or college.”

Reach reporter Melonie McLaurin at 910-817-2673 and follow her on Twitter @melonieflomer.

Daily Journal file photo Richmond Senior High School graduates march during the school’s June 12 commencement exercises. Richmond County Schools recorded its highest-ever overall graduation rate at 80.8 percent, according to state figures released this week.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_grad_marchcrowd.jpg Daily Journal file photo Richmond Senior High School graduates march during the school’s June 12 commencement exercises. Richmond County Schools recorded its highest-ever overall graduation rate at 80.8 percent, according to state figures released this week.

LAURINBURG — Police have photos of a purse-snatching suspect and are asking for the public’s help to identify the man.

On Aug. 27, officers with the Laurinburg Police Department responded to a purse-snatching that occurred in the Harris Teeter parking lot.

A woman was robbed of her purse containing a cellphone and personal information while walking to her car, according to the police report.

A witness followed the suspect who was a passenger in a green truck. The thief traveled from Laurinburg on U.S. 501 south into Scotland County, the report said.

His photo was taken from security cameras and police are asking anyone with information to contact the Laurinburg Police Department at 910-276-3211.

Contributed photo Laurinburg police are looking for this man, who is accused of snatching a woman’s purse in the Harris Teeter parking lot.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_pd1print.jpg Contributed photo Laurinburg police are looking for this man, who is accused of snatching a woman’s purse in the Harris Teeter parking lot.

ROCKINGHAM — Many older residents who are retired and spend a lot of time at home keep a prayer list in the house and check it regularly. Hazel Todd, however, does more than just pray.

Todd, 86, was born in Bladenboro, a little town that she compared to Ellerbe. Though she may be a senior now, she was actually a senior twice in high school. At the time she was in 11th grade, it was the highest grade to achieve. But that same year, school officials instated a 12th year, and Todd was a senior once again.

Working as a floral designer for 40 years at Ethel’s Flower Shop, which used to be across from First United Methodist Church in downtown Rockingham, Todd and her husband Cedrick spent many years making a living in Rockingham. Cedrick was a jeweler for The Jewelry Box, which used to sit in what is now the parking lot across from the R.W. Goodman Co. building.

Since retiring from the workforce in 2000, Todd sends out 14 to 16 letters a week to people on her prayer list. She always includes a bulletin from her First Baptist Church home and some kind of joke.

“I try to get an assortment of those to send people,” she said. “I love this town. I’ve been here for 55 years. This is home.”

In addition to the letters, she also sends out roughly 20 birthday cards a month to people she knows. She keeps a date book with every month listed so she never forgets a birthday.

“It’s all I can do now. I can’t get out in my garden anymore,” said Todd. “It keeps me in touch.”

WHAT MOTIVATES HER

“I like to send out cards so I can keep up with folks,” she said. “I don’t have any enemies. I love everybody. I have alcoholics (on my list), I have other races, I have lawyers, I have judges. I love everybody.”

PROUDEST MOMENT

“When my grandson, Bob Nelson, was ordained to be a deacon at Roberdel Baptist Church,” said Todd. “He’s a good Christian boy.”

BIGGEST INFLUENCE

“My grandfather,” Todd said, “because I lived with him, and he always lived for the Lord. He was just an old farmer.”

HOW SHE UNWINDS

Todd listed word searches and jigsaw puzzles as a hobby of hers. “I get the ones for children with dogs and things on them. I’ll do two or three a day sometime,” she said.

FUTURE GOALS

“At 86, I don’t have any future goals,” she said. “If you haven’t already done ‘em, it’s too late.”

Reach reporter Matt Harrelson at 910-817-2674 and follow him on Twitter @mattyharrelson. Notable Neighbors is a series of personality profiles featuring Richmond County residents from all walks of life. Stories will appear in the Daily Journal on Thursday and online at YourDailyJournal.com. To nominate a Notable Neighbor, email Corey Friedman at cfriedman@civitiasmedia.com.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Hazel Todd uses her prayer list and datebook to write 14 to 16 letters a week and 20 birthday cards a month to people she knows.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_DSC_0309.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Hazel Todd uses her prayer list and datebook to write 14 to 16 letters a week and 20 birthday cards a month to people she knows.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_NotableNeighbors.jpg

PINEHURST — Sharon Saunders has joined FirstHealth Wound Care and Hyperbarics as a family nurse practitioner.

Saunders comes to the program with a considerable background in wound and vascular care, having spent the last eight years with Pinehurst Surgical’s Vascular and Vein Center.

A graduate of the nursing program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, she earned her master’s degree in nursing/nursing education from Duke University’s School of Nursing, where she also received her post-master’s degree in nursing/family nurse practitioner.

Saunders is certified with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

For more information on the services offered by FirstHealth Wound Care and Hyperbarics, visit www.firsthealth.org/wound.

MOUNT GILEAD — Gather the whole family, especially Grandma and Grandpa, to celebrate National Grandparents’ Day from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13. Bring a picnic if you like, view artifacts from the ancient past, explore the reconstructed village site and take a stroll on the quarter-mile nature trail.

“Grandchildren have the opportunity to share in the heritage and history of our site,” said Town Creek Indian Mound site manager Rich Thompson, “while also making long-lasting memories with their grandparents.”

Participants can make a keepsake bracelet or clay creation as a gift for their grandparents to commemorate the day. Site staff will be available to snap a family portrait at the village site to be emailed. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the site at 910-439-6802 or email towncreek@ncdcr.gov.

For more than 1,000 years, American Indians farmed lands later known as North Carolina. Around A.D. 1000, a new cultural tradition arrived in the Pee Dee River Valley. Throughout Georgia, South Carolina, eastern Tennessee and the western and southern North Carolina Piedmont, inhabitants built earthen mounds for their leaders, engaged in widespread trade, supported craftspeople and celebrated a new religion.

The mission of Town Creek is to interpret the history of the American Indians who once lived here. The visitor center features interpretive exhibits and audiovisual displays. A national historic landmark, Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site is North Carolina’s only state historic site dedicated to American Indian heritage.

Tour groups are welcome and encouraged. The site is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays and is closed Mondays and most major holidays.

The historic site is within the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. It is located at 509 Town Creek Mound Road outside Mount Gilead. For more information on Town Creek, visit www.towncreekindianmound.com.

Daily Journal file photo The Town Creek Indian Mound state historic site will celebrate National Grandparents’ Day from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 13.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_towncreek-1.jpg Daily Journal file photo The Town Creek Indian Mound state historic site will celebrate National Grandparents’ Day from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 13.

HAMLET — Hosting a banquet, client meeting, fundraiser, customer appreciation day or tradeshow is hard work, but if done correctly, event planning experts say it can yield great results for your company.

To assist small businesses and nonprofits who could benefit from similar events, the Small Business Center of Richmond Community College is sponsoring a free seminar from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday to cover the basics of event planning.

C. Renae Simon will be the featured speaker at the workshop, which will be held at the Cole Auditorium. The seminar will cover how to determine and set realistic event goals, event planning techniques, logistical thinking exercises, how to plan to be under budget, vendor relations and negotiations and how details add value to events. Sponsorship and fundraising techniques will also be briefly discussed.

Simon has more than 12 years of experience in business consulting, marketing and advertising, facilities management, special events management and sales. She is a graduate of UNC-Greensboro, a graduate of the Rural Entrepreneurship Action Learning Institute and is a licensed facilitator of the course.

Her passion for training aspiring and established entrepreneurs in how to conduct the “business of their business” inspired her to establish her own company; Step-by-Step Businessolutions in Greensboro. She speaks on marketing and small business-related topics at small business centers, colleges and churches throughout the state. More information and a complete listing of seminars can be found on her website at www.stepbystep-businessolutions.com.

Registration for the seminar may be completed online at tiny.cc/sbcseminars or via email or phone by contacting Small Business Center Director Deborah Hardison at ddhardison@richmondcc.edu or 910-410-1687. Advance registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

WADESBORO — Police arrested a man and woman on meth manufacturing charges Thursday.

Justin Dutch Germany, 21, and Brandi Lorraine Kittredge, 35, are accused of cooking methamphetamine in Wadesboro, according to jail booking records.

Police charged both suspects with manufacturing methamphetamine. Germany faces an additional charge of felony possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and Kittredge is charged with maintaining a place for a controlled substance.

Kittredge was convicted in September 2011 on four counts of misdemeanor common-law uttering a forged instrument in Anson County, according to state prison system records. Germany has no prior convictions in North Carolina.

Germany has a pending charge of meth possession in Anson County and a charge of misdemeanor larceny in Scotland County, court records show. Kittredge has a pending charge of allowing an unlicensed person to drive in Surry County.

Each suspect was booked into the Anson County Jail under a $150,000 secured bond. Both Germany and Kittredge are scheduled to appear in court Sept. 15 on the meth charges.

Anson County has the fifth-highest number of meth lab busts among North Carolina’s 100 counties in 2015, according to State Bureau of Investigation figures. Richmond County is ranked third in the state.

— Corey Friedman

Germany

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Germany-mug.jpg Germany

Kittredge

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Kittredge-mug.jpg Kittredge

ROCKINGHAM — Local and regional officials joined a throng of supporters from all walks of life Friday for the official groundbreaking ceremony of the permanent Place of Grace Rescue Mission structure on the property of New Life Church on Airport Road.

The Rev. Gary Richardson hosted a series of speakers including fellow pastor and owner of Unique Stone Alex Perakis, Rockingham Mayor Steve Morris, state Sen. Tom McInnis, Terry Thompson of Richmond Community College and assistants of U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis and U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson. Ronnie Hawks of Hawks Builders, seated beside McInnis on stage, was thanked for his donation of labor for building the new structure.

McInnis was thanked for his donations, both monetary and material, that will completely pay the cost of laying the new building’s foundation.

“Everyone look at your neighbor and say one hundred and twenty-three,” Richardson said, immediately echoed by the crowd. “That’s how many people we’ve helped since July 2014.”

The statistics spoke for themselves — 85 to 90 people transitioned to better lives amounting to a 75 percent success rate, said Richardson.

Morris said the Place of Grace is a welcome solution to one of the area’s prominent problems.

“This project’s been going on a long time,” he said. “People have tried to find a solution to the homeless problem and Pastor Richardson has hit the nail on the head. He saw a possibility and took a chance, and most of all he gave it credibility because he is a man of faith and he is a man of character. I think all of us believe in him and knew that if he said it would happen, then it would happen.”

Thompson spoke on behalf of the RCC Board of Trustees, college President Dr. Dale McInnis and Vice President Dr. Robbie Taylor.

“We are pleased to be here as part of this partnership with the Place of Grace,” Thompson said. “It started as an opportunity and has turned into a mission I have come to believe in. And with everyone here today I can see I am not alone. Wherever this takes us, that’s where we’re going to go.”

Sheriff James Clemmons and Chief Deputy Mark Gulledge humbly accepted acknowledgement from the stage for coming out to show their ongoing support.

When Tom McInnis took the podium, he spoke of his support for the Place of Grace and suggested it be used as a model for the way other parts of the state tackle the trials of transitioning struggling homeless people who want to turn their lives around.

“Except by the grace of God, there go I,” McInnis began. “You understand that any of us could be homeless through our fault or through no fault of our own. If we lose our assets, within 90 days we’re going to have to find a place to rest our head at night. Many people don’t know that in Richmond County, our public schools have almost 200 children that are deemed as homeless. We need to do something to change that, and the only way we can do that is by active participation.”

McInnis further exhorted everyone to continue to stay involved, make donations and support the work of the Place of Grace.

State Rep. Ken Goodman arrived and like many of the others Friday, he made a donation.

One donor, Richardson said, who asked to remain anonymous, pitched in $20,000 toward the building expenses and many individuals and businesses donated their time and talent, materials and determination, supplying all the labor needs that will soon be required once the foundation is set.

Richardson said he wanted to offer special thanks to outreach coordinator Dianne Raines, David Riddick who takes care of daily tasks at the Place of Grace, Anthony Peters who addresses the spiritual needs on a daily basis and Mr. and Mrs. Eric Bean who have faithfully taught every Monday.

Reach reporter Melonie McLaurin at 910-817-2673 and follow her on Twitter @melonieflomer.

Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal State Sen. Tom McInnis addressed a crowd of about 100 supporters and volunteers during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Place of Grace Rescue Mission on Friday.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_IMG_3846.jpg Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal State Sen. Tom McInnis addressed a crowd of about 100 supporters and volunteers during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Place of Grace Rescue Mission on Friday.

Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal The Rev. Gary Richardson thanked supporters and praised God for prospering the work of those who have played a part in making the Place of Grace Rescue Mission a reality.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_IMG_3811.jpg Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal The Rev. Gary Richardson thanked supporters and praised God for prospering the work of those who have played a part in making the Place of Grace Rescue Mission a reality.

Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal Terry Thompson spoke on behalf of the Richmond Community College Board of Trustees, President Dr. Dale McInnis and Vice President Dr. Robbie Taylor, pledging RCC’s continued educational support for transitioning the homeless.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_IMG_3829.jpg Melonie McLaurin | Daily Journal Terry Thompson spoke on behalf of the Richmond Community College Board of Trustees, President Dr. Dale McInnis and Vice President Dr. Robbie Taylor, pledging RCC’s continued educational support for transitioning the homeless.

ROCKINGHAM — The black and silver motif of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office fleet was enough to arrest the attention of judges in a vehicle design contest.

Law and Order Magazine recently named RCSO as the third-place winner of its 2015 Police Vehicle Design Contest for a sheriff’s office with more than 25 deputies. The department’s K-9 SUV also received an honorable mention for best SWAT, support, command post or CSI vehicle.

On the patrol car, judges commented: “Striking color combination, good use of the vehicle’s body contour. The SHERIFF lettering is pronounced.” The colors, use of space on the lettering and the star logo on the SUV received kudos from the judges.

“We were very excited to get an honorable mention,” Chief Deputy Mark Gulledge said Thursday afternoon. “And surprised to get third place.”

Gulledge said he and Sheriff James E. Clemmons Jr. were approached by office staff to enter the contest and show off the agency’s vehicles.

“It’s something that our people personally take pride in,” he said. “We’re just lucky we have a staff that cares so much for the people of Richmond County and taking care of the equipment.”

He also thanked photographer Jimmy McDonald for his snapshots of the sheriff’s cars used to enter the contest.

According to Gulledge, the switch to black from brown — with both the vehicles and the uniforms — goes back to a project started by former Sheriff Dale Furr.

He said the brown cars were getting harder to find because the color was considered a specialty paint and was more expensive.

The first black cars had gold stripes, but silver stripes were later added under Clemmons to correspond with the new uniforms.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office wasn’t the only department in North Carolina to place in the contest. The Irredell County Sheriff’s Office took second in the more than 25 deputies category with its black and maroon design.

Third-place honors also went to the Lincolnton Police Department in the eastern municipal agency class with 10 to 50 officers and the Kernersville Police Department for municipal agency with more than 50 officers.

The grand prize contest winner was the Apex Police Department, whose vehicle was featured on the magazine’s cover.

“This is a one-of-a-kind design… a twist on the traditional black-and-white design; it could be the black-and-white police car of the future,” judges said of the Apex vehicle. “The colors enhance each other and we really like the chevron on the back. The POLICE lettering on the hood and rear is easy to read. The badge is a nice touch, too.”

Reach reporter William R. Toler at 910-817-2675 and follow him on Twitter @William_r_Toler.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal The black and silver paint scheme of the Richmond County Sheriff’s office patrol cars recently won third place in the Police Vehicle Design Contest through Law and Order Magazine. The sheriff’s office K-9 unit SUV also received an honorable mention.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_RCSOcar2.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal The black and silver paint scheme of the Richmond County Sheriff’s office patrol cars recently won third place in the Police Vehicle Design Contest through Law and Order Magazine. The sheriff’s office K-9 unit SUV also received an honorable mention.

ROCKINGHAM — Stars and bars were flapping in the breeze Saturday as around 50 riders proudly displayed a variety of flags through five counties in two states.

The Ride for Pride was originally scheduled to begin at Rockingham Dragway, but due to another event, organizers and drivers met across U.S. 1 in the A-section parking lot of the Rockingham Speedway.

Saturday’s route took riders through Rockingham, across the bridge to Anson County, turning south to Cheraw and through Bennettsville in South Carolina and up to Laurinburg before coming back through Hamlet.

As participants pulled in, they were handed packets — containing “I Support Confederate Heritage” stickers — by members of the Moore County Scotch Riflemen of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Also included was information about the organization.

“This will be the first one we’ve been in,” said SCV member Gerald Monroe. “Hope to do more.”

Riders had several variations of the Confederate flag, including the first, second and third national banners and the Bonnie Blue flag. Also flying were the U.S., Gadsden (Don’t Tread on Me), POW-MIA and Christian flags, in addition to Confederate variations of the North and South Carolina state flags.

“It’s about heritage, it’s not about hate,” said Joshua Peed of Hamlet. “We do this to honor our ancestors that fought and died, just like any other American would honor their dead.”

Marcus Karachun made the trip from Ayden, which is just outside Greenville in Pitt County.

“On the way up here, we had some people roll the windows down, thumbs up,” he said. “Some people looked confused.”

Karachun said that some people’s views have been changed since the rides began, following the decision to remove the flag from the South Carolina statehouse two months ago.

Josh Flores, from Ellerbe, said this was his 14th ride.

“I got some thumbs up,” he said, “but you can’t change the way they look at the flag.”

On the back of Flores’ truck were four flags: U.S., Gadsden, a N.C./Confederate combination and a Confederate flag reading “Rebel Born, Rebel Bred.” The latter flag was a replacement after someone ripped his flag from its pole.

“Just have respect for the flag…(and) the people that’s flyin’ it,” he said.

Josh Williams, who drove up from Cheraw, said shots were fired at a previous ride he was in that was based out of Bennettsville.

Even a leg infection couldn’t keep Edward Grey Jr., of Biscoe, from making out to the ride.

“Yesterday at the hospital I was told I needed to be admitted immediately because of a serious infection attacking my legs,” he wrote on the event’s Facebook page. “I am forgoing admission so I can be in this ride, which may be my last. This is how strongly I believe in what we are doing. After the ride is over, I will go to the hospital and it may not go well, but I will have the satisfaction knowing I stood up for Dixie until the last minute.”

Prior to the start, riders gathered around Grey’s vehicle for a short prayer.

Karachun said he is also planning to go to the Rally Around the Mountain ride, scheduled for Sept. 19 at Sugar Loaf Mountain in South Carolina’s Sand Hills State Forest. There is also a Heritage Ride scheduled for that day in Robbins.

“It’s not the North against the South, it’s us against the tyrants,” he said. “We just want to keep our rights, keep our freedom and put God back in this country.”

Reach reporter William R. Toler at 910-817-2675 and follow him on Twitter @William_r_Toler.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal A line of cars, trucks and SUVs flying various Confederate and other flags wait for the start of the Ride for Pride in the A-section parking lot of the Rockingham Speedway. Visit the Daily Journal’s Facebook page for more photos.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_ride_line_crop.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal A line of cars, trucks and SUVs flying various Confederate and other flags wait for the start of the Ride for Pride in the A-section parking lot of the Rockingham Speedway. Visit the Daily Journal’s Facebook page for more photos.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Riders gather around Edward Grey’s vehicle for a prayer before taking off.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_ride_gather_crop.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Riders gather around Edward Grey’s vehicle for a prayer before taking off.

ROCKINGHAM — The number of reported communicable diseases are, for the most part, down or holding steady, according to the Richmond County Department of Human Services.

Health director Tommy Jarrell presented the report to county commissioners at Tuesday’s board meeting, showing the only rise was in cases of salmonella, from 15 to 20.

“That’s really not out of range,” Jarrell said in his office Thursday. Since 2008, the number of reported cases has averaged around 18 per year. “Any time you’re dealing with 10 or less numbers, just one or two can throw off your rates and make you look really good or really bad.”

Jarrell reminded commissioners that this was just the number of reported cases, adding the actual number of cases was likely higher.

“There are people that contract salmonella and never go to get treated,” he said. Jarrell added that others may be treated, but not tested or diagnosed. Positive tests for communicable diseases are required to be reported to the local health department.

“Sometimes, it’s difficult to find out what made them sick,” he said, adding that not everybody remembers what and where they ate. Although it’s not likely, some cases of salmonella could be fatal.

The number of cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, dropped from nine last year to only three. Jarrell credits vaccination rates for the drop.

“Vaccination rates have remained relatively high,” he said, pointing out that some areas of the state have pockets of parents who are wary of vaccines and refuse to inoculate their children. “We’ve been fortunate in our area there’s not a lot of resistance.”

Jarrell said other parts of the country have higher rates than Richmond County, partly due to children from other parts of the world who haven’t been vaccinated.

The report shows there was only one confirmed case for each of tuberculosis, chronic hepatitis B and invasive streptococcus A.

The number of cases of campylobacter — an infection caused by bacteria found in the reproductive organs, intestinal tract and oral cavity of swine, poultry and humans which causes fever and gastroenteritis — dropped from six to four.

There were no reported cases of: acute hepatitis A, B or C; shigellosis; hemophilus influenza; cryptosporidiosis; Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Lyme; vibrio; malaria; H1N1 (swine flu); listeriosis; Creutzfeldt-Jacob (“mad cow”) Disease; or erlichiosis.

While the numbers of hepatitis cases in the county are low, Jarrell said the medical community is concerned it could go back up.

He said those who abuse prescription drugs are finding that heroin is cheaper and one of the main ways the disease is spread is through the sharing of needles.

STDs: UP AND DOWN

Not included in this year’s report to the commissioners was the county’s rate of sexually transmitted diseases. Jarrell said the omission was not intentional, just an oversight.

Last year, the report showed that the number of chlamydia cases had nearly doubled from the previous year — from 195 to 331. There was an increase of 45 cases this year, bringing the total to 376.

In 2011-12, there were no cases reported in the county. The highest number of the past eight years was 253 in 2007-08.

Jarrell told commissioners last year that chlamydia was more prevalent among the young adult population, adding that there was a “high rate among teens, as well.”

“The pattern continues to be about the same,” he said in an email Friday.

After more than two years with the number of reported gonorrhea cases at 56, this year’s data shows the amount has been cut by more than half, with only 21, continuing an eight-year downward trend.

Syphilis cases also dropped from two to one, after being unseen in the county for three years.

Health department stats show there were two cases of HIV reported for 2014-15, up from one case each of the previous two years. There were 18 cases reported in 2006-07.

Reach reporter William R. Toler at 910-817-2675 and follow him on Twitter @William_r_Toler.

Jarrell

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_TommyJarrell.jpg Jarrell

ROCKINGHAM — With the summer reading program in the books, Leath Memorial Library is gearing up for its fall events starting in September.

Although it began on Aug. 31, Library Amnesty Week continues through Saturday, Sept. 12 and is an opportunity for anyone with overdue fines to wipe the slate clean. There is, however, a catch, explains Leath Memorial events coordinator Debbie Knight.

“During this week, library users may visit our library, return or renew overdue materials and when they say, ‘I love my library,’ all overdue fines for the items will be forgiven,” said Knight. “If an overdue item has already been returned but still has fines on it, people can present their library cards and say, ‘I love my library,’ and any overdue fines will be forgiven, even if its three or four hundred dollars. And for people who may have lost their card, we’ll replace it for free this week.”

For those looking to get their first library card or for readers wanting to get back in the library, September is library card month at Leath Memorial.

Knight said the goal is for every child in Richmond County to receive a library card, although the promotion is not just for kids.

“This year we are hoping that we can get a minimum of 60 percent of Richmond County public school system children to receive a library card,” she said.

The process of obtaining a card is easy, said Knight, and only requires a current identification card and two pieces of mail that have been received in the last 30 days in the original envelope.

“They will receive a library card that day,” Knight said, “and they can also check out books that day. We are aiming to help parents and kids to improve their reading skills.”

Everyone, young and old, who receives a library card in the month of September will get a leaf with their name on it placed on a large bulletin board at the entrance of the library. Participants can also register for prizes for themselves and prizes for their teacher’s classroom. On Wednesday, Sept. 30, Leath Memorial will draw two children’s names out of a fishbowl for prizes and two teachers’ names for a classroom prize.

From 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 14, the library will host a national storytelling night with local story spinners Azalea Bolton, J.A. Bolton and Tyris Jones entertaining the crowd. In addition to the tall tales, this free event will also have door prizes. Knight knows events like these can help bring people back to the library so they can see what it has to offer.

“Our library offers tons of services that every family needs to encourage reading and improve reading skills,” said Knight, “such as e-books, audio books, digital magazines, story time and special programs during the year that are family-oriented and even a very special visit from Santa in December.”

For more information on these events and services the library offers, call Leath Memorial Library at 910-895-6337.

Reach reporter Matt Harrelson at 910-817-2674 and follow him on Twitter @mattyharrelson.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Leath Memorial Library events coordinator Debbie Knight posts leaves bearing the names of new library patrons who obtained their library cards during the month of September.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_DSC_0008.jpg Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Leath Memorial Library events coordinator Debbie Knight posts leaves bearing the names of new library patrons who obtained their library cards during the month of September.

HAMLET — For the first time in recent memory, crews from Richmond County’s two municipal fire departments trained together last week.

Firefighters from the Hamlet and Rockingham fire departments, 21 in all, spent several hours at a secluded pond Aug. 29 training for water rescues.

Under the instruction of Mike Bartch and Nick Arrington, firemen from both departments maneuvered through a boater driving course and practiced using throw bags and ropes — from boat and shore — to rescue those who may need help in the water.

— William R. Toler

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Firefighters from Rockingham move toward those from the Hamlet Fire Department in order to connect the two boats during water rescue training.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_converge.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Firefighters from Rockingham move toward those from the Hamlet Fire Department in order to connect the two boats during water rescue training.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Franklin McKay secures his life vest before getting back to training after a lunch break.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_lifejacket.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Franklin McKay secures his life vest before getting back to training after a lunch break.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Joe Brown, left, helps Franklin McKay and Billy Gibson tie the two rescue boats together.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_hookup.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Joe Brown, left, helps Franklin McKay and Billy Gibson tie the two rescue boats together.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Garrett McInnis, right, and Billy Gibson pull Richard Lassiter into the boat.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_pullin.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Garrett McInnis, right, and Billy Gibson pull Richard Lassiter into the boat.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Franklin McKay throws out a rope to a mock rescue victim from the boat.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_roperescue.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Franklin McKay throws out a rope to a mock rescue victim from the boat.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Justin Pruitt tosses a rescue rope from the pond’s shore.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_ropetoss.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Justin Pruitt tosses a rescue rope from the pond’s shore.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Garrett McInnis keeps the boat steady.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_motor.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Garrett McInnis keeps the boat steady.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Michael Mabe, left, and Richard Lassiter jump into the pond for a rescue.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_waterjumpmontage.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Michael Mabe, left, and Richard Lassiter jump into the pond for a rescue.

William R. Toler | Daily Journal Michael Mabe and Richard Lassiter swim toward their rescue victim.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_water_swim.jpg William R. Toler | Daily Journal Michael Mabe and Richard Lassiter swim toward their rescue victim.

Contributed photo

Jeff Joyner, left, meets 2015-16 American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett at the 97th National Convention Sept. 1-3 in Baltimore, Maryland. Joyner is a member of the National Legion Legislative Committee from North Carolina. He and Dr. Michael White, both N.C. delegates, and members of Rockingham Post 147, attended meetings of the committee. Joyner briefed the N.C. delegates and alternates at a caucus breakfast on legislative issues.

Contributed photo Jeff Joyner, left, meets 2015-16 American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett at the 97th National Convention Sept. 1-3 in Baltimore, Maryland. Joyner is a member of the National Legion Legislative Committee from North Carolina. He and Dr. Michael White, both N.C. delegates, and members of Rockingham Post 147, attended meetings of the committee. Joyner briefed the N.C. delegates and alternates at a caucus breakfast on legislative issues.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_IMG_0482_cmyk.jpg Contributed photo Jeff Joyner, left, meets 2015-16 American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett at the 97th National Convention Sept. 1-3 in Baltimore, Maryland. Joyner is a member of the National Legion Legislative Committee from North Carolina. He and Dr. Michael White, both N.C. delegates, and members of Rockingham Post 147, attended meetings of the committee. Joyner briefed the N.C. delegates and alternates at a caucus breakfast on legislative issues.