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Walk of Fame honorees announced

Henderson County News

Balfour Parkway, N.C. 191 widening on NC road plan

The new Balfour Parkway and the widening of N.C.191 from Mountain Road to N.C. 280 in Mills River, are included in the state's next 10-year transportation plan for major road projects, the NCDOT announced Tuesday.   Read Story »

Hendersonville News

SCHOOL BOARD ENDORSES NEW HHS IN 4-2 VOTE

The Henderson County School Board voted 4-2 in favor of building an all-new Hendersonville High School, averting a power struggle with the Board of Commissioners over school construction authority. Although the School Board's vote ended a nearly year-long conflict between the two elected bodies over HHS and school construction priorities, the action was not the last word on the HHS project. The next step is the Hendersonville Planning Board and City Council, where HHS alumni hope to make one last stand short of a lawsuit against the renovation plan on the grounds of safety and a lack of parking. It was close to a full house at the Henderson County school administration building as the School Board gets ready to make what's expected to be an up-or-down vote on the Hendersonville High School construction. Twenty-one people signed up to speak, nearly all advocates for saving the historic core building. Rick Wood, a potential swing vote, spoke in favor of moving ahead with both Edneyville and HHS. "Imagine, five years from now, we had a new Edneyville Elementary School that the students and teachers are enjoying," he said. It would be safe and secure with a new library, cafeteria and gym, "a source of pride to the community that lost its high school in 1993." At the same time, HHS students would be enjoying a new building with large classrooms, the latest in technology, a new media center, cafeteria, new gymnasiums and and a new auditorium. ""How can we make it happen?" Wood said. "I hope tonight listening to public comment that we can find a way to move forward toward that vision." Walt Cottingham, a longtime HHS world geography teacher and father of HHS graduates, said the issue of community was most important. The faculty heard about all the options in a meeting earlier this year. "In this meeting one unanimous vote was taken in opposition to an all-new school on the Boyd lot," he said. School faculty, alumni and the the School Board favored other options. "Then the commissioners in a show of imperial might threw all the proposals away," he said. He urged the county commissioners to build a school "that celebrates the past and celebrates the future of our school." Former School Board member Melissa Maurer, an HHS graduate, recalled that the School Board and county commissioners cooperated on buying the Boyd property. "At no time did we consider abandoning the Stillwell building or building on the furthest corner of the Boyd dealership property," she said. "In my opinion the commissioners have overstepped their authority and if you say Edneyville is first you need to stand by that. Do not be bullied. Do not succumb to veiled or not so veiled threats." "To place that building on the edge of one of the busiest highways is unthinkable," said Kim Heery. "Are you willing to risk even one student being injured or worse? ... Please do not let your judgment be clouded by fancy buildings and empty threats." Don Ward, a former county commissioner, said he was shiocked to hear about the conditions from lunchroom workers when he toured Edneyville Elementary School on Monday. "They said in the summertime it gets 115 degrees," he said. "We don't have to worry about flies because they can't fly. We can't use but one microwave at a time because if we use two it blows a fuse and knocks a breaker off." Security also poses a threat, he said. "If I was an attorney in Henderson County I would be in the parking lot passing out cards," he said. Ron Stephens, a City Council member who emphasized that he was not speaking for the council, urged the School Board to "stand up to bullying" and vote no on the new construction plan. "I have heard many things tonight and I agree with all of them about what this board should do," he said. Edneyville "sounds like a third world country and it needs to be handled first. ... "If you don't vote no you are joining the county commissioners in violating the state law. I read the state law. I think a 6th grader would read that and understand what you are assigned to do and elected to do. "The other issue is bullying." When bullied "you either stand up to them or it will get worse," he said. "And I think this is a class case of bullying. The Board of Commissioners are bullying. Unless you vote no you will be joining them in making a bad decision and violating state law." Chris Stepp, an attorney, read a statement from former state Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr, a 1964 HHS graduate, that reinforced Orr's previously offered legal opinion that the School Board, not the county commissioners, has the authority to make decisions on school construction. Boyce "Blondie" Whitmire Jr. used a cane to walk to the lectern and address the School Board. Whitmire and his brothers have more 170 years of service to the school system in teaching, coaching and administration "and five us belong to the Henderson County Education Hall of Fame." A principal for 28 years, Whitmire urged the board to reject the Boyd lot and preserve the historic core. The board began its deliberation on the issue with a motion by Mary Louise Corn to endorse the new construction. Blair Craven said he had received assurances that "If we do table this and we do vote no that there's no repercussions. If we were to say let's go ahead with Edneyville.... we can have Edneyville completely done in 26 months. That's not 2021. That's 2019. That is significantly sooner than the commissioners would lead you to believe. Hendersonville High School is its own issue." When Corn asked who made the assurances, Craven responded: "I met with Mike Edney on Saturday for coffee and he assured me thare's not going to be any type of vendetta, we're not cutting the budget or anything of that nature." Lisa Edwards, one of three members who had supported new construction, said she still believed that new construction was the right option but objected to commissioners' decision to delay the Edneyville work. "There are 5- and 6-year-olds walking in holes between buildings," Edwards said. "I will not support that and that's why I will be voting no." Michael Absher, like Blair a newly elected member, said he had met with all five county commissioners and heard their promises that Edneyville would start immediately after HHS construction. "I received 117 phone calls since the county sent out that letter, two thirds of those were primarily for Edneyville," he said. "They are looking at how they're going to fund the Edneyville project.  I love the tradition of HHS but after touring some of the high school I would have to support that we do support a new Hendersonville High School." Wood spoke in favor of the new school. "Even though the two projects are not linked I believe the county commissioners will be much more agreeable to consider that new school option (for Edneyville) versus renovation if we support their plan on Hendersonville High School," he said, drawing  hoots of derision. "Another factor in my decision was the promise that the historic Stillwell building will be preserved for use to be determined by the School Board," including the idea of a ninth grade academy. Corn announced her support for the new HHS, becoming the fourth yes vote. Voting yes were Corn, Wood, Absher and Colby Coren. Voting no were Craven and Edwards. The chair, under School Board bylaws, does not vote. Coren said the future of schools was more important than making a statement about the School Board's authority. "Based on current estimates of projects, over $100 million will be allocated by Commissioners for the Innovative High School, HHS, and Edneyville projects for our school system," he said. "It’s no secret that school systems across the country struggle to obtain funding for even the basic necessities. We are blessed to live in a county that sees the importance of providing for our children. The bottom line is this: sometimes, in order to do what is best for everyone, we need help. Is voting to move forward with new construction at Hendersonville relinquishing our boards control and authority? You could see it that way. Or, you could see it as I choose to, as an opportunity for our board to say, despite our differences, we are going to move forward and continue to work together for the sake of our students! I am not willing to gamble with the safety and well-being of children to prove our control and authority."     Read Story »

Hendersonville News

Holt elected School Board chair

Amy Lynn Holt, a Hendersonville High School parent and the board's most vocal advocate for saving the historic core building for HHS use, was elected chair of the Henderson County School Board Monday night. In a 5-2 vote, board members elected Holt over Mary Louise Corn, the top vote getter in the Nov. 8 election and a former West Henderson High School principal. In electing Holt, the board chose a leader who has argued strongly that the Board of Commissioners had usurped its authority by overriding the School Board's recommendation on school construction priorities and design. The School Board voted 4-3 for a renovation-new construction option that would have saved the Erle Stillwell-designed classroom building and auditorium for future HHS students. Instead, commissioners voted unanimously for a new construction plan that would preserve the historic building for a future unspecified use. The School Board also has voted to put Edneyville Elementary School ahead of the HHS construction, a ranking that the Board of Commissioners also rejected.           Read Story »

Henderson County News

BRCC Foundation honors top college employees

The Blue Ridge Community College Educational Foundation recently honored outstanding BRCC employees for their service to the community, the College and its students. The winners were announced Monday by Blue Ridge Community College Educational Foundation Board of Directors. Jennifer Parrack-Rogers received the Dr. and Mrs. William D. Killian Outstanding Teacher Award for her commitment to teaching excellence. Nominated and chosen by fellow faculty members, Parrack-Rogers currently serves as English Instructor. In addition to be recognized for teaching excellence, Jennifer was also commended for being a dedicated teacher who inspires her students, a knowledgeable and caring academic advisor, an active student club advisor, and an amicable coworker. Patricia Horlick received the Dr. Molly A. Parkhill Staff Person of the Year Award. As Instructional Designer, Patricia was recognized for her excellent assistance to faculty members throughout the College with online instruction development. Horlick is also serving as an Achieving the Dream Implementation Team leader to assist the College in identifying ways to increase student success. Rachel Marsom-Richmond received the Dr. Eliza B. Graue Extra Mile Award for her dedicated investment in the lives of students at Blue Ridge Community College. Rachel was praised for her passion for her job and her students. Nominated by her students, she was cited for always helping students reach their goals and overcome obstacles. She currently serves as English Instructor. Administrative Assistant Victoria Burke received the Wellness Award. She competed against other employees using a new point-based system designed by the College Wellness Committee to encourage long-term healthy lifestyles through friendly competition. Victoria participated in numerous wellness events and challenges throughout the year. Cosmetology Instructor Darlene Cope received the Dr. David W. Sink Jr. Community Service Award. Darlene was recognized for her exceptional service to the community and for passing on her dedication for community involvement to her students. Through her leadership, Blue Ridge Community College cosmetology students attended training for American Cancer Society’s Look Good Feel Better program where they learned to style wigs and apply makeup for women undergoing treatment for cancer. Each recipient was honored with a framed award and a monetary gift from Blue Ridge Community College Educational Foundation.   Read Story »

Henderson County News

Emergency repair will delay traffic on I-26

One lane of eastbound Interstate 26 will be closed on Tuesday and a different section will be closed Wednesday in order for emergency slab repairs to be completed, the NCDOT said in a news release. A contractor for the Department of Transportation will begin replacing a 12-foot by 32-foot section of pavement in the right lane near mile marker 48 — a mile west of the U.S. 64 exit in Hendersonville — at 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday. A separate emergency slab repair will close the right lane on Wednesday to repair a 12-foot by 30-foot slab near mile marker 45. Significant traffic delays are expected and backups could extend five miles or more at times on Tuesday. Motorists are urged to seek alternate routes around the emergency construction. Construction should be completed in time for the Thursday morning commute. The emergency repairs are necessary in order to prevent the current cracks from breaking off and developing into significant potholes. Transportation officials are taking the opportunity to remove and replace the slabs while temperatures remain above freezing prior to an increase in holiday travel starting next week. A crew from NHM Constructors will remove the damaged sections, pour a special concrete mix known as “Rapid Set.” This mix reaches a high strength earlier than typical concrete, but needs warm air to maximize its benefits.   Read Story »

Henderson County News

LIGHTNING EDITORIAL: Health Sciences Center a triumph of cooperation

It may be impossible to overstate the significance of the new Health Sciences Center, which officially opened last week in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the Pardee Comprehensive Cancer Center.   Read Story »

Fletcher News

Fletcher parade honors top entries

WNC Toys for Tots Tractor Run won Best Overall Entry and three other entries were honored in the Fletcher Christmas Parade today. Fifty-five groups participated. Other winners were: Best Use of Theme (Christmas in Cady Land), Overall Spirit & Enthusiasm, and Originality. Best Performing Group – Hotfoot CloggersBest Non-Commercial Entry – Arden First BaptistBest Commercial Entry – Weichert Realty   Read Story »

Hendersonville News

COMMISSION CHAIR ISSUES STATEMENT ON HHS VOTE

Michael Edney, the chairman of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners, issued a statement Friday night that sought to assure the Edneyville community that commissioners plan to move ahead on an Edneyville Elementary School project immediately after the Hendersonville High School construction. The unusual move by the board chair highlighted the stakes in Monday night's School Board meeting, when that board is expected to vote up or down on a $53 million Hendersonville High School project. A no vote, commissioners said Monday night, means that the county will shelve the HHS project for at least two years and possibly more than that. Commissioners did not commit on Monday to moving ahead with the Edneyville project if the School Board votes no on an all-new HHS project. Edney addressed two of the biggest concerns of HHS alumni and others who favor a renovation plan over new construction: use the historic Stillwell building and parking. The county's plan "includes the preservation and use of the historic Stillwell Building by the school system as the elected School Board sees fit," Edney said, "We have encouraged and committed to appropriate financial resources for the integration of Stillwell’s classrooms and auditorium with HHS to maintain the link between past, present and future. Onsite parking will be increased and staff is exploring ways to add yet additional parking opportunities both on and offsite." Here is Edney's complete statement: The Henderson County Board of Public Education will meet Monday evening. We anticipate that a part of their meeting will focus on the future of Hendersonville High School. Both the School Board and Board of Commissioners, as well as their staffs have worked together diligently over the past couple of years to be at the point where we are preparing to move forward to seek City of Hendersonville zoning approval and road closure. During this process, much information and unfortunately, misinformation has been circulated in the community. It is of utmost importance that both the Board of Public Education membership and the community at large have accurate and truthful information. To that end, I wish to reiterate the following: The current plan to build a new, state of the art Hendersonville High School, endorsed by each County Commissioner, five duly elected representatives from five unique backgrounds and perspectives, includes the preservation and use of the historic Stillwell Building by the school system as the elected School Board sees fit. We have encouraged and committed to appropriate financial resources for the integration of Stillwell’s classrooms and auditorium with HHS to maintain the link between past, present and future. Onsite parking will be increased and staff is exploring ways to add yet additional parking opportunities both on and offsite. There are those in the community who have attempted to derail the Hendersonville High School project by inappropriately linking it with the Edneyville Elementary School project. The only relationship these two separate projects have are that they are both of the highest priority for both the School Board and the Board of Commissioners. While we continue to address final details related to the high school, Commissioners absolutely have Edneyville Elementary in our sights. Last month we officially directed our architects to begin work on Edneyville as soon as their resources are available to do so. School and County staff are working as we speak, behind the scenes, collecting the necessary information for the architects and other professionals to hit the ground running. Should the School Board and subsequently the City, sign off on the high school project, we expect to break ground in about a year with students occupying the facility in August of 2020. Given this schedule, it is my desire that the actual design of the new Edneyville Elementary School begin once HHS construction is underway and that the elementary school can be ready to receive students as early as August of 2021. Given the substantial strength of the County’s finances under the management of staff and the leadership of the Board of Commissioners, this scenario is doable. With this said, let me be clear, the past few years have seen great accomplishments in Henderson County, primarily because we have united together as a community with a common purpose – to make our county the best it can be – and these future plans are dependent upon the same. We can, and must, work together with a common purpose. In this instance to provide our young people with the best possible educational opportunities available. The plan we have outlined does just this and I believe deserves your support. Thank you, and may you and your loved ones have a blessed holiday season.”   Read Story »

Henderson County News

West Henderson High graduate dies in car crash

A 24-year-old graduate of West Henderson High School was killed in a traffic accident on Dec. 2 in Altus, Okla., where he was stationed with the U.S. Air Force.   Read Story »

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