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[] | 2016-08-27T22:47:17 | null | 2016-08-27T23:46:53 | After landing in Italy on Friday, Joao Mario is officially a new Inter player as Sporting Club de Portugal confirmed the transfer late Saturday night. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Ftransfer-market%2Finter-joao-mario-signing%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Joao-Mario-Sporting-e1468066931751.jpg | en | null | Inter complete Joao Mario signing | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | After landing in Italy on Friday, Joao Mario is officially a new Inter player as Sporting Club de Portugal confirmed the transfer late Saturday night.
The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to the Italian giants for quite some time, and his move to the Nerazzurri makes him the most expensive sale in the history of the Portuguese club.
“Sporting Clube de Portugal announces that it has reached agreement with Inter for the transfer of the player Joao Mario for €45 million, of which €5m is for specific objectives,” read a statement on the official website of the Portuguese club.
“Sporting Clube de Portugal wishes Joao Mario the best in personal and professional happiness.”
The transfer surpasses the previous sales of Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, and brings an end to Joao Mario’s 14 year association with the club.
Last season the midfielder netted seven goals in 45 games as the Green and White finished second in the Primeira Liga. He also played a large role in helping Portugal secure their first European Championship in France this summer. | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/transfer-market/inter-joao-mario-signing/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/6959560a8c9651e706fc487190038e7b012a7e15802e7c9b418d40b3cc6c0dfe.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:49:36 | null | 2016-08-26T12:47:08 | Fiorentina's resolve in keeping Nikola Kalinic is set to be severely tested by Napoli in the coming days, with the Partenopei willing to offer €35 million. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Ftransfer-market%2Fnapoli-all-in-kalinic-fiorentina%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Nikola-Kalinic-Fiorentina-1024x681.jpg | en | null | Napoli go all in for Kalinic | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | Fiorentina’s resolve in keeping hold of Nikola Kalinic is set to be severely tested by Napoli in the coming days, with the Partenopei willing to offer €35 million for the Croatian.
Aurelio De Laurentiis and co. are being forced back into the transfer market once again to strengthen in attack as Manolo Gabbiadini closes in on on a €25m move to Everton, with his agent Silvio Pagliari currently in England for talks.
If that sale does go through, Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli is set to put all of his eggs in the Kalinic basket and will make the Viola an enticing offer of €35m.
Coach Maurizio Sarri is a big fan of the former Dnipro forward and has already given the green light to the move, if the club hierarchy can pull it off.
The problem with a deal lies with the Tuscan club who, despite being in negotiations to bring Stevan Jovetic back to the Stadio Artemio Franchi, would like to bring in another forward to compensate for the loss of Kalinic which would be no easy task even for a wily market operator such as sporting director Pantaleo Corvino.
Meanwhile, Napoli’s signing of Marko Rog which was expected to go through on Friday has hit something of a stumbling block as the player has demanded a higher salary, despite his club Dinamo Zagreb agreeing to a €13.5m sale.
Defensively, the Campania club are also hopeful of pulling off a deal for Torino’s wantaway centre-back Nikola Maksimovic but remain in contact with Martin Caceres as an alternative.
Adapted from an article in La Gazzetta dello Sport by Gianluca Monti | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/transfer-market/napoli-all-in-kalinic-fiorentina/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/c1ef3de048f35e956cc13e9f359f6e7811bd7a0faece0084253551a73c7e8954.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T14:46:21 | null | 2016-08-26T14:42:12 | Having noted mental problems from afar at AC Milan last season, Vincenzo Montella is determined not to let those hurt his side this year. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Fmilan%2Fmontella-guarding-against-complacency%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Montella-AC-Milan-Torino-1024x701.jpg | en | null | Montella already guarding against AC Milan complacency | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | null | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/milan/montella-guarding-against-complacency/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/1b6112c0fc240a559adeb2a81967897b68cb9b59b5a3bf42b7d23fda7e737885.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T08:47:32 | null | 2016-08-28T10:22:36 | Arkadiusz Milik scored his first ever Serie A goals as Napoli secured a 4-2 victory over AC Milan at the Stadio San Paolo on Saturday evening | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Fnapoli%2Fratings-milik-higuains-shadow%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Milik-Napoli-AC-MIlan-1024x671.jpg | en | null | Napoli player ratings: Milik steps out of Higuain's shadow | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | Arkadiusz Milik scored his first ever Serie A goals as Napoli secured a 4-2 victory over AC Milan at the Stadio San Paolo on Saturday evening.
The Poland striker, who arrived from Ajax earlier in the summer, hit a first half brace to put the Partenopei in a commanding position.
After Milan hit back to draw level, a fine attacking performance from Dries Mertens and Jose Callejon saw Napoli take advantage of their opponents’ two red cards to seal the win. The latter struck late on before forcing Alessio Romagnoli into a own goal.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Pepe Reina – 5.5
Perhaps ought to have done better with Niang’s strike that allowed Milan back into the match, the Spanish goalkeeper looked far from assured.
Elseid Hysaj – 5
The weak link at the back for Napoli, Hysaj didn’t get forward enough to aid his teammates on the attack, whilst he was caught out in defence all too often. Niang skipped past him with ease to fire in Milan’s first goal.
Raul Albiol – 6
Marshalled the defence well and kept Bacca under wraps for the entire match. The experienced centre-back played a crucial role in the victory and was a calm head at the back for the Partenopei.
Kalidou Koulibaly – 6
Although not at his best, the in-demand defender put in a decent performance and was a physical presence at the back. Bacca beat him on occasion, but it came to nothing.
Faouzi Ghoulam – 6
Enjoyed a good start but gradually faded as the match wore on. Nonetheless, he was a willing runner and flanked Mertens throughout, even if his crosses lacked accuracy. | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/napoli/ratings-milik-higuains-shadow/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/d564ab1e3ea7788f3bb6084ab951d1b4a06eba40bf0e14d8358066932e0fefc5.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T22:47:20 | null | 2016-08-27T22:47:59 | Jose Callejon and Arkadiusz Milik might have each bagged a brace, but it was Dries Mertens’ magic which inspired Napoli to a 4-2 win over AC Milan. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Fnapoli-ac-milan-milik-mertens-callejon%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Milik-Napoli-AC-MIlan-1024x671.jpg | en | null | Mertens and Milik inspire Napoli to AC Milan victory | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | Jose Callejon and Arkadiusz Milik might have each bagged a brace, but it was Dries Mertens’ magic which inspired Napoli to a 4-2 win over AC Milan.
The diminutive Belgian picked up from the performance against Pescara in which he scored two goals by laying on Milik’s opener and also having a hand in Callejon’s winner, as he terrorised the Rossoneri backline.
Milan did brilliantly to comeback from two goals down, but gave themselves little chance after Napoli took the lead once again and Juraj Kucka and Mbaye Niang were both sent off. Callejon then added a fourth in the final minute of the game.
In the opening period of the first half it was Milan who looked the better side and had the first real opportunity when the ball fell to Ignazio Abate, but he fired high from range.
Things then turned very much in favour of the home team as Milik opened the scoring. Mertens was played the ball on the edge of the area by Fazoui Ghoulam, he then curled the ball towards the top corner, but it smacked the post. Milik was there to bundle the ball home from close range.
Donnarumma, Milan’s saviour last weekend, was called into action by Mertens again. The Belgian once more cut in from the left then nutmegged Abate, but this time his curling shot was tipped over the crossbar by the young goalkeeper.
Continuing their duel, Mertens was again denied by Donnarumma, who tipped the Napoli forward’s shot, which looked destined for the far corner, out.
The second goal came just after the half hour and it was Milik again after he out-jumped Kucka to head Callejon’s corner past Donnarumma from six yards.
After the break, Milan took just ten minutes to get back on level terms, though it was very much against the run of play.
First, the Rossoneri pulled one back from Niang, who beat Elseid Hysaj for pace then fired low and from a tight angle past Pepe Reina. Then, Suso got the ball on the edge of the Napoli penalty area and rifled a shot into the top corner.
From then on Milan looked more creative in the final third but couldn’t get themselves in front as Napoli’s urgently tried to regain the lead which they did just over 15 minutes later.
Mertens was once again the protagonist cutting in from the left, another identical effort curled to the far post was tipped into the path of Callejon who poked home.
Just one minute later, Milan found themselves down to ten men as Kucka was given his marching orders after collecting two yellow cards, the second for a late challenge on Mertens.
It got worse for the Rossoneri as Niang was also given a red card after receiving a second yellow for pulling down Reina.
And in the dying moments Callejon grabbed his second after good work from Lorenzo Insigne, even though Alessio Romagnoli handled on the line, the goal was given.
Milan take on Udinese after the international break, while Napoli travel to Sicily to face Palermo. | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/napoli-ac-milan-milik-mertens-callejon/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/f4d84a659c5a6e3801ea7e29e8fe9e8d3a32602dabcf0c6b36fbd48589ec889d.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T12:47:04 | null | 2016-08-27T12:53:53 | Former Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini has found a new job after a relatively quiet summer - taking over at Hebei China Fortune. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fpellegrini-hebei-china-fortune%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Manuel-Pellegrini-1024x682.jpg | en | null | Pellegrini takes over at Hebei China Fortune | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | With his Manchester City departure having been confirmed months in advance it was surprising Manuel Pellegrini hadn’t found a job sooner this summer but the Chilean has now been appointed as Hebei China Fortune’s new coach.
Former Everton midfielder Li Tie had taken over the club following Radomir Antic’s departure in August 2015 however Pellegrini will now be entrusted with guiding a less than star studded team, by China’s recent standards, to a strong finish this season.
Gervinho is the big name player in the squad and he will be ably supported by Aloisio and former Sevilla pair Gael Kakuta and Stephane Mbia.
The terms of Pellegrini’s agreement with the club have up to this point been unclear, given the fact only a statement has been released confirming Li Tie’s amicable release.
There are seven matches left in the Chinese season and Hebei China Fortune currently sit in fifth position although in the last two months there has been a slide in the team’s fortunes on the pitch.
Pellegrini will not be able to repeat his title winning heroics this season with the gap between his new side and leaders Guangzhou Evergrande a mammoth 15 points.
Originally published on Marca.com by Chris Winterburn | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/pellegrini-hebei-china-fortune/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/7dfb3e2bccb2d15fa8e3bc8e3655bb30883a6e33c80bacf8cd1a8e50839ac566.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:02:09 | null | 2016-08-18T10:29:54 | AC Milan are eager to progress during the remaining stretch of the transfer window and have targeted Real Madrid's Mateo Kovacic as a potential signing. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Ftransfer-market%2Frumour%2Fac-milan-real-madrid-kovacic%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Kovacic-Real-Madrid-1024x710.jpg | en | null | AC Milan eye ambitious swoop for Real Madrid's Kovacic | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | null | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/transfer-market/rumour/ac-milan-real-madrid-kovacic/ | en | 2016-08-18T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/2c650fe13819db00d0c06f2052e8ea7680ea7a42ea5ce99d09d15e5742d69f45.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T16:47:29 | null | 2016-08-27T18:26:47 | Torino coach Sinisa Mihajlovic was in no mood to discuss Nikola Maksimovic's future on Saturday after stating the defender is dead to him. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Ftorino%2Fmihajlovic-maksimovic-dead%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sinisa-Mihajlovic-Torino-1024x666.jpg | en | null | Mihajlovic: Maksimovic is dead to me | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | Torino coach Sinisa Mihajlovic was in no mood to discuss Nikola Maksimovic’s future on Saturday after stating the defender is dead to him.
The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Napoli for close to €30 million, and he’s done everything in his power to force a transfer.
In fact, the Serbian hasn’t trained with Torino for almost two weeks, and his behaviour has clearly angered Mihajlovic.
“I haven’t heard from him,” he told reporters on Saturday. “As far as I am concerned, Maksimovic is dead to me.”
Torino fell 3-2 to AC Milan on the opening day of the season, but Mihajlovic is ready to get things back on track against Bologna on Sunday.
“It’s right that a city and club like Torino expect more than just avoiding relegation,” he added.
“I am here to achieve something important, and I wouldn’t have joined this side if our only goal was to stay in Serie A.” | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/torino/mihajlovic-maksimovic-dead/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/3095d36486f51b09664bbd478b521064244c56eb0c618dd115fcc8fc299f8cf2.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T14:50:46 | null | 2016-08-31T12:04:51 | After playing the part as Gonzalo Higuain's predecessor at Napoli, Edinson Cavani has now since scrutinised the striker's decision to join Juventus. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Fnapoli%2Fcavani-higuain-juventus%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Edinson-Cavani-PSG1-1024x659.jpg | en | null | Cavani questions Higuain's decision to join Juventus | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | null | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/napoli/cavani-higuain-juventus/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/cf453715560be3a8fe396544831a19d72407696316a3dd26cca041c8a2afd013.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:58:01 | null | 2016-08-15T14:32:39 | As one of the most influential players to ever play at the club, Paolo Maldini has since criticised the current situation at AC Milan. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzettaworld.com%2Fnews%2Fserie-a%2Fmilan%2Fmaldini-failings%2F.json | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Paolo-Maldini-3.jpg | en | null | Maldini lambasts AC Milan failings | null | null | www.gazzettaworld.com | As one of the most influential players to ever play at the club, Paolo Maldini has since criticised the current situation at AC Milan, claiming that there is a distinct lack of clarity and leadership.
The Rossoneri are currently in the process of a long-awaited takeover, although the former captain has insisted that there are a number of underlying problems and that these will undoubtedly affect the team’s performances.
“There is a lot of confusion surrounding the club,” said Maldini to Marca. “There are no specific roles and there is not clear sense of leadership in regards to the president.
“Inevitably the side’s results will suffer because of this, even if there are some people there that understand football.”
As for a potential return for Maldini, who has been linked with a role on the Milan board, the 48-year-old has stressed that his footballing views are significantly different from those that are held by certain individuals who are still present at the club.
“With all due respect to those at Milan, I have an idea of football that is extremely different to theirs,” he added. “They run it the way that they deem suitable.” | http://www.gazzettaworld.com/news/serie-a/milan/maldini-failings/ | en | 2016-08-15T00:00:00 | www.gazzettaworld.com/631a9efe990ba731eac130aa2c3fee83cdec436c651c4b97150b103b9f2368e5.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:46 | null | 2016-08-30T18:37:19 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal%2F6858%2Fpokemon-go-players-find-body-near-laurinburg-park.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local/6858/pokemon-go-players-find-body-near-laurinburg-park | en | null | Pokemon-Go players find body near Laurinburg park | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Authorities are investigating a body found in North Laurinburg Monday by a pair of people playing “Pokemon-Go.”
The body has been identified as Kenneth Wayne Ivey, 43, of Laurinburg.
A handgun was found near Ivey’s body and there were no signs of foul play, according to investigators. But police said they would continue the investigation. An autopsy will determine cause of death.
Two individuals, who were not identified, stumbled upon the body in the Old Hillside Cemetery near Jaycee Park on Monday around 7 p.m., according to the police.
The pair were looking for virtual fictional characters as part of Pokemon-Go, the smartphone game where users hunt around parks, neighborhoods and cemeteries.
Nationally, the game has been credited with helping find several bodies and an attempted-murder suspect.
The game has also placed a number of its players at risk, including two players who fell off an ocean cliff. Other players have reported being robbed and a “Go” player was stabbed multiple times by a group of men in a park.
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local/6858/pokemon-go-players-find-body-near-laurinburg-park | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/194e21766c21f51b3dd92517a35edda3bd95cc83462a04aed526f16d46140879.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T12:50:37 | null | 2016-08-30T08:39:33 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6846%2Ftema-festival-to-pack-downtown-laurinburg.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_5122.jpg | en | null | Tema Festival to pack downtown Laurinburg | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Residents can expect this weekend’s first-ever Tema Festival to bring thousands of visitors to Scotland County for a cultural experience that will include food, games, performances and education.
The festival will be held Saturday and Sunday in downtown Laurinburg and runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days. The event is being sponsored by the African American Cultural Society of Scotland County and takes its name from a town in the African country of Ghana.
“We hope through the festival people will have a greater understanding of African American history,” said Nana Aku Opata, president of the African American Cultural Society of Scotland County. “The festival will emphasize African American history of Scotland County, the state of North Carolina and the United States.”
But organizers say Tema will offer more than a history lesson with plenty to do, see and eat. The group expects as many as 7,000 people to attend the two-day event spread out across Atkinson, Fairly, Cronly and Roper streets.
“I want to get everybody from the north side of town and the south side of town and bring them together. I don’t care about people being black or white, it’s about bringing everyone together,” said Vaicardo Riggins, a festival volunteer.
The festival will also include a Miss Tema Scholarship Pageant Friday at 7 p.m.; a Zumbathon dance event planned for Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; and an inter-faith service at 11 a.m. followed by a gospel concert at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.
There will be face and body painting by artist Tiffany Beckler of the reality television show “Skin Wars.” There will be a car and bike show with prizes awarded. A cornhole tournament and games such as spades, dominoes and chess are also part of the festival.
Richard Griffin, also known as Professor Griff from the rap group “Public Enemy” and Khalid el-Hakim, the founder of the Black History 101 Mobile museum will talk about everything from slavery to hip hop throughout the day at the Storytelling Arts Center. Donations are requested.
“The mobile museum will feature artifacts dating back to the trans-Atlantic slave trade all the way up to modern culture,” Opata said. “There will be original slave shackles, a tribute to Prince and also one for Muhammad Ali. So there will be a wide range of items from across history.”
About 80 vendors will be selling food, clothing and arts and crafts, among other goods. Festival organizers are still accepting vendor registrations until Friday.
Tema is the latest event to join a roster of local festivals from now until mid-October, including the Kuumba African-American Festival, Highland Games, John Blue House Festival and the Storytelling Festival of Carolina.
“The Tema Festival is a great opportunity to kick off the festival season here in Scotland County,” said Cory Hughes, director of the Scotland County Tourism Development Authority. The TDA gave Tema a $9,000 grant to help promote the event.
Opata said the grant is a good investment to attract visitors and vendors to Laurinburg.
“One of our initial goals was to make an economic impact on the county through the festival,” she said. “There should be 5,000 to 7,000 people in attendance based on the marketing we have done in the area.
“The majority of our vendors and acts are coming from out of town. They are coming from Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro and Atlanta. We have a couple of our acts coming from Atlanta and a couple from Chicago — so we are going to have a national presence here.”
Several downtown business owners said they were excited about what the festival may mean for Laurinburg.
“It is something new and I love that they are bringing it downtown, which is exactly what downtown Laurinburg needs,” said Chris English, director of the Scotland County/Laurinburg Area Chamber of Commerce. “On the way back from Charlotte I saw a billboard for the Tema Festival and it is great to see they are investing a lot in the event.”
Jim Willis, former Laurinburg Downtown Revitalization Corporation president, said the Tema Festival could be an important part of focusing attention on the downtown district.
“I hope the festival becomes an annual event,” Willis said.
Opata added that the event can also serve as a boon to local vendors.
“We want to make sure that Scotland County people, churches and civic groups know that they can use the event as a platform to raise to funds by capturing outside dollars,” Opata said. “We have a lot of outside vendors but we want our resident to benefit by keeping some of those local dollars local.”
Vendor registration is still available until Friday. For non-profit organization, there is a $25 fee for a 10×10 space and $75 for a 10×20 space. Those with questions about the event or vending can call 910-706-7252.
Because downtown parking may be limited, Scotland High School will serve as the designated parking area and a free shuttle service will be available to take festival goers to and from downtown, according to Terence Williams, the event’s logistics coordinator.
Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Terence Williams, Tema logistics coordinator, shows volunteers where events will take place in downtown Laurinburg beginning on Saturday for the two-day festival. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_5122.jpg Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Terence Williams, Tema logistics coordinator, shows volunteers where events will take place in downtown Laurinburg beginning on Saturday for the two-day festival.
Celebration kicks off Saturday
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6846/tema-festival-to-pack-downtown-laurinburg | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/462f104843912ef44c52924287339b2c0ab67eedde2e6eac3b97d7ad21d68d69.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T22:48:38 | null | 2016-08-26T17:38:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6807%2Fscots-soccer-finishes-week-1-1.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_004-1.jpg | en | null | Scots soccer finishes week 1-1 | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Fighting Scots soccer team finished the week 1-1 after a victory over Douglas Byrd on Wednesday and a loss to Whiteville on Thursday.
Following a 1-1 tie with Douglas Byrd to open their season, the Fighting Scots were able to come back and secure a 4-3 win over the Eagles. The Scots took a dominating 4-2 lead in the first half with two goals each from McKenzie White and Nyjel Collins-Jackson.
Scoring two goals for the Eagles was senior Cesar Anivisca in the first half. In the second half, Douglas Byrd scored their other two points off penalty kicks by sophomore Shavar Dick and freshman Khalil Johnson.
On Thursday, Scotland fell to Whiteville in a close game, 2-0. The Wolfpack took an early two goal lead in the first half thanks to Leonel Baltazar.
Scotland coach Danny Gallaghar said the final score of the game was a bit deceiving considering how well his team played.
“We lost a game that we dominated,” he said.
The Fighting Scots move to 1-2-2 overall for the season and only have one game next week on Tuesday. The Scots will host Cape Fear on Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_004-1.jpg | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6807/scots-soccer-finishes-week-1-1 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/425d185c32f4dd2d0700d5aae4bdee769f7c662575cdb706b541de51091cd6b7.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T22:50:23 | null | 2016-08-29T16:56:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6838%2Ftennis-team-keeps-undefeated-streak-alive.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Scots-logo.jpg | en | null | Tennis team keeps undefeated streak alive | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG —The Lady Scots tennis team remained undefeated Thursday after picking up a 8-2 win over Cape Fear and improve to 3-0 overall and finished 6-1 in their singles matches and 2-1 in doubles.
Senior Camryn Ellis picked up a two set victory against her Cape Fear counterpart Alexis Cooper, 6-3, 6-1. Ellis managed to fight through an ankle injury to get the win for her team.
Lady Scots freshman Claire Carter took on Cape Fear senior Chloe Arnette in the second singles match up. Carter fell to Arnette in two sets, 3-6, 3-6.
In the third singles match up, Scotland senior Anna Griswold picked up a straight sets victory over Cape Fear’s Joelyn Brodhow, 6-2, 6-0. The fourth singles match saw Scotland’s Brooke Bathie pick up a win over Cape Fear’s Paige Cameron, 6-1, 6-2.
The winning continued for the Scotland singles players as Cheyanne Strong and Samantha Bowen both won their respective matches. Strong took the straight sets victory against Cape Fear’s Taylor Leonard, 6-0,6-0 and Bowen bested Cape Fear’s Kinsey Thurmond, 6-1, 6-0.
In doubles action, the Lady Scots were able to win two of their three matches. Griswold and Bathie picked up an 8-2 victory over their Cape Fear counterparts and Strong and Grace McIntyre topped their match, 8-3.
Camryn Ellis and Claire Carter fell to the Lady Colts in a tough 4-8 match. The two teams meet again on Sept. 21 at Scotland High School.
The Lady Scots will host their home opener on Thursday, Sept. 1 against Purnell Swett. Matches are set to begin at 4 p.m.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Scots-logo.jpg | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6838/tennis-team-keeps-undefeated-streak-alive | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/2c5a968706318fb3ee1b6170486fddb0b04502ec2caccb369386a88c6d6e9cd3.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T12:50:39 | null | 2016-08-30T08:38:52 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ffeatures%2F6844%2Funcp-workshop-focuses-on-quilts-and-bone-creations.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_seedjewelry2.jpg | en | null | UNCP workshop focuses on quilts and bone creations | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | PEMBROKE — Seed jewelry making and soapstone carving, laced with stories of history and tradition, are just a sample of the creative treasure trove Mardella Lowery will share this year with workshop students at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s Museum of Southeast Native American Indian.
When Lowery is approached by class organizers about sharing some of her skills, she comes to the table with about 30 possibilities, depending on the age of the students. But whether it’s seed jewelry or soapstone carving, Lowery plans for every student to leave her workshops with a finished project.
Born and raised in Robeson County, Lowery is a member of the Lumbee tribe. She moved to Philadelphia where she became involved in the United American Indians of Delaware Valley and began her teaching and art career. She focuses in the areas of bead and leather work, quilting, wood, bone and soapstone carving and storytelling.
Lowery has been the featured artist at hundreds of festivals, powwows, schools and libraries and recently appeared at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. She was the only American Indian among 152 artists accepted for Pennsylvania’s Artists in Education program.
She learned much of her craft from her family, but it was during one of her storytelling presentations years ago that she met her soapstone carving mentor, Old Bear Grinning. With his encouragement, she discovered a talent and love of carving, and learned to never leave work unfinished.
“He told me to never go into a class, or sit down to a piece of work, if you can’t finish it,” she said.
Lowery has the same expectation for her workshop students.
While it took her four nights to complete a turtle for Old Bear Grinning, workshop participants will have only two and a half hours to create their pieces. To make sure they can successfully complete their work, Lowery times how long it takes her to finish a potential workshop project, and then allows an extra 20 to 30 minutes for a student to be able to complete the same project.
Seed jewelry workshops are tentatively planned for Sept. 6 and 16, and she hopes to have soapstone carving workshops scheduled soon.
If a soapstone carving workshop is scheduled, students will be provided a 4-inch-by-5-inch piece of soapstone, a nail, a file and three weights of sandpaper. The cost of this class will depend on the weight and cost of the soapstone.
Seed jewelry students may choose from North Carolina and Navajo corn, three types of pumpkin, two kinds of cantaloupe or watermelon, or chinaberries. Seeds, beads, No. 8 needle and thread will be provided and the cost is $30 per person. If a child attends this workshop, the adult companion is responsible for ensuring both projects are complete with the allotted workshop time, or they can make one together.
Participants who want to bring a child to one of Lowery’s workshops should call Alisha Locklear Monroe, museum assistant, at 910-521-6282, to confirm age appropriateness of proposed projects. Lowery said if a project is shared, the cost for the child won’t be for the full amount.
The museum is located in Old Main on the campus of UNCP. For information call 910-521-6282 or visit uncp.edu/nativemuseum.
Juanita Lagrone | The Robesonian Lumbee artist and storyteller Mardella Lowery carved her own eagle smudge bowl. Accented with abalone shell, the bowl has been “colored” by the sweat of her hands. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_LOWERYMardella2.jpg Juanita Lagrone | The Robesonian Lumbee artist and storyteller Mardella Lowery carved her own eagle smudge bowl. Accented with abalone shell, the bowl has been “colored” by the sweat of her hands. Juanita Lagrone | Civitas Media Tentatively scheduled for Sept. 6 and 16, seed jewelry workshop will offer students the opportunity to use cantaloupe, pumpkin, watermelon, chinaberry, Navaho corn or North Carolina corn. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_seedjewelry2.jpg Juanita Lagrone | Civitas Media Tentatively scheduled for Sept. 6 and 16, seed jewelry workshop will offer students the opportunity to use cantaloupe, pumpkin, watermelon, chinaberry, Navaho corn or North Carolina corn.
By Juanita Lagrone [email protected]
Reach Juanita Lagrone at [email protected] or call 910-416-5865.
Reach Juanita Lagrone at [email protected] or call 910-416-5865. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/features/6844/uncp-workshop-focuses-on-quilts-and-bone-creations | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/8ac19ba47222a3eb1dbb64c6a0b4787993658c73d2d831f637165a6f53f3b032.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T10:51:02 | null | 2016-08-31T06:05:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2F6863%2Flawsuithomebuyers-robbed-of-deposits.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_roy-cooper.jpg | en | null | Lawsuit:Homebuyers robbed of deposits | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | RALEIGH — Attorney General Roy Cooper has filed a lawsuit against a Robeson County man accused of pocketing money people gave him to buy manufactured homes that he never provided, according to a statement from Cooper’s office.
According to the statement, George Henry Smith “pressured consumers” to buy manufactured homes he wasn’t authorized to sell and then kept their deposits.
“Using the dream of homeownership to trick consumers out of their hard-earned money is just plain wrong,” Cooper said. “My office is here to protect consumers from these misleading and fraudulent business tactics.”
The Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Division filed the lawsuit against Smith on Thursday, asking the court to cancel all contracts buyers signed with Smith and to order Smith to pay refunds to consumers and $5,000 in civil penalties.
According to the Attorney General’s office, Smith advertised used and repossessed manufactured homes to consumers at Page Talk, a phone store where he worked, and at other locations in Robeson County. He targeted consumers who spoke limited English, using business cards in Spanish, the statement said.
Smith showed prospective buyers mobile homes he was not authorized to sell at Prevatte Home Sales and Terry Pate Home Sales in Lumberton, where he told consumers he was a salesman and sales lot employees he was an agent for the consumers.
Consumers paid deposits as large as $9,800. When the homes did not arrive, consumers contacted the sales lots and learned that the homes had already been sold or were never for sale. According to the statement, Smith has refused to refund the deposits, “leaving several families unable to afford rent and forced to move in with relatives.”
In the lawsuit, Cooper has asked that Smith be permanently barred from engaging in unfair or deceptive business practices, advertising or attempting to sell manufactured homes without a license, or accepting new orders or payments in North Carolina.
“Before you put down money on a manufactured home, check out the dealer or agent thoroughly,” Cooper said in the statement. “Buying a home is the biggest purchase many families will ever make, and you owe it to yourself to ask around in your community for a reputable place to make such an important purchase.”
Consumers can check out manufactured home companies with the Attorney General’s Office by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or by contacting their local Better Business Bureau. Consumers can find out if someone is licensed to sell manufactured housing with the North Carolina Manufactured Housing Board.
Any consumer who has paid Smith for a manufactured home is encouraged to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division in English by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or in Spanish at 919-716-0058. Consumer complaints can also be filed at ncdoj.com in English or Spanish.
Roy Cooper http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_roy-cooper.jpg Roy Cooper
Lawsuit accuses Robeson County man | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/6863/lawsuithomebuyers-robbed-of-deposits | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/ca036ee6dde8a04121d6e7275f72ba5870f6ad8bd01929e3226243ce0f85276e.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:52:20 | null | 2016-08-24T19:38:08 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news-1%2F6788%2Fdeputies-laurinburg-raid-finds-35-marijuana-plants.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Desmond.jpg | en | null | Deputies: Laurinburg raid finds 35 marijuana plants | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — A Laurinburg man has been arrested on multiple drug charges after Scotland County Sheriff’s deputies say they found more two dozen marijuana plants at his home.
Michael Raymond Desmond Jr., 30, of Arch McLean Road, was charged with manufacturing marijuana, possession of marijuana paraphernalia and simple possession of Schedule VI controlled substance, according to the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said they seized 35 marijuana plants from Desmond’s home during a raid on Friday.
Desmond has been convicted of felony larceny and felony breaking and entering, according to public records from the state Department of Public Safety.
He was jailed in the Scotland County Detention Center under a $16,000 secured bond.
Michael Desmond Jr. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Desmond.jpg Michael Desmond Jr. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6788/deputies-laurinburg-raid-finds-35-marijuana-plants | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/b35efaa7650dc11c50d2871d1fe9ff1a6e7ed654acfefc70803b9299b2da68aa.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:48:14 | null | 2016-08-25T17:16:39 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6795%2Foffensive-player-of-the-week.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_015.jpg | en | null | Offensive Player of the Week | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Syheam McQueen is a 6-foot 1-inch sophomore at Scotland High School. He is also one of the starting running backs, wearing No. 5, for the Fighting Scots this season and has been named this week’s Offensive Player of the Week.
Each Friday, the Exchange will feature one offensive, one defensive and one special teams player from the Fighting Scots, chosen by the coaches, to be the Players of the Week.
Along with being one of the Scots running backs, Syheam — known by most people as Smiley — also plays special teams and defense, which is why head coach Richard Bailey selected him as the Offensive Player of the Week.
“Smiley did a little bit of everything, but he did a great job running and blocking on Friday night,” said Bailey.
Syheam had seven carries for 88 yards to be the second leading rusher for the Scots. He also had one touchdown and ran in the Scots only two-point conversion attempt last week against South View.
The 189-pound sophomore hopes he can continue his football career when he graduates but is still undecided on where he wants to attend college. The only thing Syheam does know is that he would like to attend college outside of North Carolina. Syheam also isn’t sure what he plans to major in, but one day would like to become a police officer.
Something people might not know about Syheam is that he likes to sleep a lot.
When asked what he is most looking forward to in the 2016 season he said he wants a 4A State Championship ring on his finger.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3171.
Syheam McQueen http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_015.jpg Syheam McQueen | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6795/offensive-player-of-the-week | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/9562bacc8f5d630e7f2b85253eb62f9e9a7c6495c76b86366fc32bebb8874330.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T12:50:58 | null | 2016-08-31T07:58:06 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6873%2F911-service-to-honor-scotland-county-law-officers.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_cross.jpg | en | null | 9/11 service to honor Scotland County law officers | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — A prayer for the safety and protection of Scotland County law enforcement officers is the focus of an outdoor service at noon on Thursday as part of a commemoration of the 15th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
The service will take place at the three crosses on the hill facing Main Street behind First United Methodist Church at 101 W. Church St.
The Rev. Verne Womack, retired United Methodist Church pastor, will lead the service that combines prayers, hymns, scripture, testimony, and information about police services and organizations that support law enforcement.
The terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 caused more law enforcement line of duty of deaths than any other single incident in American history. One officer was killed when United Flight 93 crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania as he and other passengers attempted to regain control of the plane from the hijackers. A total of 71 officers were killed when the two World Trade Center buildings collapsed in New York City.
The four coordinated terrorist attacks killed a total of 2,996 people and injured more than 6,000 others.
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, North Carolina has lost 483 officers since 1791. Their names are honored at a memorial in Washington, D.C. Two officers died in the line of duty in North Carolina in 2015, according to North Carolina’s Department of Justice Peace Officers Memorial.
“Praying for God to extend his daily protection for our police officers as we approach the 9/11 anniversary is fitting for September’s service,” said the Rev. Jonathan Jeffries, pastor of First United Methodist Church. “We ask God to protect all Scotland County officers as they confront danger and evil every day to protect us.”
During Thursday’s program, the Laurinburg Police Department Honor Guard will present the colors, and Sgt. Shawn Chavis will offer a prayer. Paul Lemmond, who retired after serving with the sheriff’s department, will also talk about the importance of prayer to members of law enforcement.
Also planning to offer prayers will be Scotland County Sheriff Ralph Kersey and the Rev. Michael Edds, senior pastor of Cross Pointe Church. Edds also serves as chaplain for the sheriff’s office.
“I’m a thousand percent supporter of our law enforcement, and we need to cover them with our prayers,” said Edds, who previously served four years as the Laurinburg police chaplain.
Prayer series
The Hope on the Hill prayer series takes place at noon on the first Thursday of every month to pray for different community needs. The public is welcome.
“This community public worship once a month adds more prayers flowing to God to bless this county,” Jeffries said.
The Oct. 6 service at noon will offer prayer for fire fighters; Nov. 3 for government leaders; and Dec. 1 for church ministries.
For information, contact the First United Methodist Church office at 910-276-1592.
Nolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange The 9/11 service will take place at the three crosses on the hill facing Main Street behind First United Methodist Church at 101 W. Church St. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_cross.jpg Nolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange The 9/11 service will take place at the three crosses on the hill facing Main Street behind First United Methodist Church at 101 W. Church St. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6873/911-service-to-honor-scotland-county-law-officers | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/b9876d5678789695169be55b172dcfc58b921fde703ea217c32e24816fe9fcf9.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T10:50:58 | null | 2016-08-31T06:08:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6865%2Flaurel-hill-camp-gets-tourney-gift.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Golf-20160825_155953.jpg | en | null | Laurel Hill camp gets tourney gift | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Faith Presbyterian’s recently held its 15th Annual Ministry and Mission Golf Tournament to help raise money for Monroe Camp.
The tournament that attracted 52 players raised $2,000 that will be used for scholarships for young children to attend Monroe Camp in the summer of 2017. Monroe Camp and Retreat Center, located in Laurel Hill, is a Christian camp and retreat center founded in 1954. The camp offers day and overnight use of its facilities for religious and community groups as well as special occasions. It also home to an annual summer camp for children and teens in the months of June and July.
“Faith Presbyterian Church extends a big thanks to all our players and sponsorships which made this gift to Monroe Camp possible,” said Jane Callahan, a co-chair for the tournament. “The monies will be used for the 2017 Summer Camp for scholarships for children of all ages.”
Winners of the low gross score were: George McIntyre, Tommy McDaniel, Ray Howe and Ed Nassif. The winning team with low putts was: Georgia Mulee, Jennie Meggs, Brian Mulee and Guy Mulee. Course competition: Closest to pins: #2 William Carter, #12 Frank Callahan, Longest Drives: Men: Brian Mulee, Ladies: Carleigh Carter, longest Putt: Men: Guy Mulee and Women: Jennie Meggs.
Also, Lois DeVine was the winner of the heritage quilt that was raffled during the tournament.
The tournament was July 16.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Golf-20160825_155953.jpg | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6865/laurel-hill-camp-gets-tourney-gift | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/39ba87cca0bcdf73ceaf0a8f86dff468816b83358e5eebe281527cef0077ccdd.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T10:51:00 | null | 2016-08-31T06:00:51 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6860%2Flaurinburg-to-stick-with-robeson-trash-plan.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Joint-Meet-1.jpg.jpg | en | null | Laurinburg to stick with Robeson trash plan | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Trash collected in Laurinburg will continue to go to St. Pauls landfill, but city officials on Tuesday left the door open to the possibility of having Scotland County handle its trash in the future.
At an hour-long meeting of the Laurinburg City Council and the Scotland County Board of Commissioners, the two boards discussed their previous arrangement for garbage disposal and what led to the city’s decision to end the arrangement earlier this summer.
In July, the Laurinburg City Council approved a memorandum of understanding with Robeson County to take its municipal solid waste rather than being serviced by Scotland County’s transfer station.
The city was paying Scotland County $55.75 per ton to handle its municipal solid waste but negotiated with Robeson County a price of $36.50 per ton. To end its agreement with Robeson County, the city must provide a 60-day notice.
“Our intention here is to increase our understanding of solid waste, its disposal for both the city and the county — how we can work together to come to a solution that benefits the city, the county and the citizens,” said Carol McCall, commission chair.
“We’re happy to get down to talking about how these issues,”said council member Mary Jo Adams, adding her thanks to the prep work conducted by City Manager Charles Nichols and County Manager Kevin Patterson.
Patterson said he wanted bvoth boards to consider where the situation might be a year from now.
The county would like to keep the city’s business because the higher the volume of garbage, the lower the rate by landfill companies. The city’s garbage made up almost 60 percent of the municipal solid waste the county was taking to its transfer station, which was then shipped to a Uwharrie Environmental landfill.
The county’s contract with Uwharrie Environmental ends at the end of June 2017. Patterson told commissioners and council members that he wanted to be able to include the city in negotiations with Uwharrie and other providers who seek the county’s landfill business.
“We’re looking for an understanding that we will work together with the city when we go out for bids because if I say we’re working together and I say we’re bidding out 18,000 pounds of MSW rather than 8,000 pounds of MSW, we can get a better rate,” Patterson said.
Also the county had been operating leaf and limb disposal for the city which is not something it continues to do in the absence of the MSW. Patterson said the county could handle that again as a part of the overall waste disposal, or if the city wishes to continue on its on leaf and limb disposal it could do so.
“The city residents are county residents, and frankly, the city of Laurinburg is also a citizen of Scotland County just as all of their businesses are. So it’s a situation of where I’m trying encourage good management all the way round,” Patterson said. “Charles and I have been trying to work together on this and basically, we expect to continue to work together.”
Officials on both sides agreed to cooperate in order to get a better deal with a waste company.
Another component to the issue is the matter of the county’s construction and demolition waste landfill, which is different from a landfill that takes municipal solid waste. MSW cannot be placed in a C&D landfill, Patterson said.
“The state’s telling us it’s going to cost us $3 million to close and monitor our C&D landfill and we have to accumulate that amount,” Patterson said. “Right now we have 30 years of life left but we’ve already accrued $1 million of that which means we have negative assets in that.”
State officials have told the county it must increase revenue so it’s worth something, Patterson said.
“Over the last 10 years we’ve had to increase all of our fees for solid waste in an attempt to keep up with the costs,” Patterson said.
At the same time the cost to the county was growing, it was limited in the amount it could increase its fees, he said, which led to implementing an availability fee.
“That’s the amount of money we charge — the tax we charge per household or business to cover the cost of the infrastructure of our solid waste program,”Patterson said.
Patterson said he was glad to be given the go-ahead on rate negotiations that include the city.
From left, Commissioners Clarence McPhatter Guy McCook and Whit Gibson were joined by Laurinburg officials Tuesday to discuss the future and cost of garbage service to the city. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Joint-Meet-1.jpg.jpg From left, Commissioners Clarence McPhatter Guy McCook and Whit Gibson were joined by Laurinburg officials Tuesday to discuss the future and cost of garbage service to the city.
Boards open to reviving disposal agreement
By Terri Ferguson Smith [email protected]
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-506-3169.
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-506-3169. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6860/laurinburg-to-stick-with-robeson-trash-plan | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/b848bdf9bba4c21c755c3671f1048da292ddb57fd75cc4dbde02fe0abe0bebc9.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T00:49:55 | null | 2016-08-28T20:09:49 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ffeatures%2F6827%2Fcross-flanagan-wedding.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Engagement.jpg | en | null | Cross - Flanagan Wedding | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Kurt and Cindy Cross, of Laurinburg, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Brandi Nicole Cross to Devan Ross Flanagan.
Devan is the son of James Brent Swett and Rhonda Flanagan.
The bride is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Pembroke where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management and marketing. She currently is employed at Scotland Health Care Systems, First Health of the Carolinas, and is the varsity cheerleading coach at Scotland High School. Brandi is the granddaughter of Mackie and Linda McClendon, and Terry and Eleanore Cross.
The groom is also a graduate of the The University of North Carolina at Pembroke where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. He is currently employed at Smithfields/Murphy Brown. Devan is the grandson of Otha Swett, the late Tommy Dorsey Swett, and the late Magnolia Flanagan.
The couple are planning to wed in September. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/features/6827/cross-flanagan-wedding | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/b501bcd5bbf15f970a431e937b0b3c7e1239f3fe0834c36e0e3d092012410b0b.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T22:48:37 | null | 2016-08-26T17:43:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6814%2Fgibson-residents-told-not-to-detain-crooks.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_sher.jpg | en | null | Gibson residents told not to detain crooks | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | GIBSON — As the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office looks for ways to step up protection for the town of Gibson, authorities don’t want residents here trying to act as police themselves.
At this month’s Gibson commissioners meeting, several residents expressed concerns about the lack of a law enforcement presence in town. Gibson does not have its own police department and is served by the sheriff’s office.
But Lloyd Goins, chief deputy with the sheriff’s office, who spoke at the Aug. 11 meeting, suggested that it was legal to detain an individual for trespassing. Several residents had asked if they could hold suspected crooks until law enforcement arrived.
This week, Goins said that while legal, such an action could endanger residents and suspected criminals. Goins said he wants residents to be vigilant about illegal activity in Gibson, but apprehending or detaining criminals is the job of the sheriff’s office.
“I do not recommend residents of Gibson take matters into their own hands,” he said.
Gibson residents had been complaining about riders of ATVs and dirt bike trespassing on private property; drugs; break-ins; and slow response times.
Sarah Wright, who said at a town meeting in July that because of crime she may have to “walk across my yard with a gun on my hip.”
She said this week that she has seen few improvements in addressing crime.
“I am still looking for gun … a smaller one so it is more accessible,” Wright said. “I just don’t feel safe.”
Gibson Commissioner Lula Cottingham said Sheriff Ralph Kersey had promised to have a substation manned by a deputy during his campaign for office, but the office never materialized.
Still Goins said the deputies ride through town on a daily basis.
“We do have unmarked and marked cars patrolling Gibson,” said Goins, one of the officers who is in Gibson each day.
Deputies have also been promoting their presence through “Operation Safe Streets” an effort that includes going door-to-door to talk with residents and explain the services offered by the department.
Mayor Ronnie Gibson said the sheriff’s office is doing the best it can.
“I have seen sheriff’s vehicles driving around town more often,” Hudson said. “The sheriff’s office is doing exactly what they said they were going to do.”
Nolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange The Scotland County Sheriff’s Office said it has stepped up patrols in Gibson after resident complained about crime there. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_sher.jpg Nolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange The Scotland County Sheriff’s Office said it has stepped up patrols in Gibson after resident complained about crime there.
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6814/gibson-residents-told-not-to-detain-crooks | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/1301e83d38e92cd5d30b3e2cacccc1a9cb0c3c1f5e39a47b696a0986f13b72e8.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T12:50:59 | null | 2016-08-31T06:54:05 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6869%2Flaurinburg-developer-hopes-to-bring-business-jobs-to-city.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Mike1.jpg | en | null | Laurinburg developer hopes to bring business, jobs to city | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Laurinburg’s new community development director, told members of the Laurinburg Rotary, that he is “hard at work” trying to revitalize not only downtown, but improve the city’s economic fortunes as a well.
Michael Mandeville, who took the position in May, said in that brief time has worked to secure several grants to aid economic and industrial development. He was the guest speaker at Tuesday’s meeting of the Laurinburg Rotary Club at the Masonic Lodge.
“We have been awarded a couple of grants recently including one for $700,000 for industrial development,” he said. “We have a company coming in a few weeks to market the land. We also received a grant for $94,000 to downtown development.”
Mandeville said the city also received a $60,000 grant to create a pass through, where the old McDuffie building currently stands, to open up more parking for downtown. Another $15,000 will be used towards LED lighting for the downtown area and a $19,000 grant has been secured to build a stage in the city’s Art Garden, which sits on the corner of W. Church and Main St.
Mandeville said the city will also apply for grants from the North Carolina Department of Commerce to fund additional lighting for trees in the downtown area.
“We want downtown Laurinburg to be safer and more well lit so people will feel comfortable walking around in the evenings,” he said.
The city is also looking into using the money for new signage to direct travelers from U.S. 74 and N.C. 401 into the core of Laurinburg.
“Over the past few years people have been going away from shopping malls and moving back towards downtown,” Mandeville said. “We have an advantage with I-74 and people passing through on their way to the beach. We just have to figure out how to get all of those travelers not to pass us and newer/nicer signs directing them into downtown would certainly help.”
Additional retail space could be going in next to the Food Lion once the city clears some of the foliage that blocks travelers view of the grocery store and shops in that area.
“We are looking at running sewer to that site this fall and then possibly having either a restaurant or a retail store go in there,” Mandeville said. “It has easy on/off access to the interstate which makes it ideal.”
Mandeville is also in the process of designing a new logo and tag line for the city.
Two executives from the Downtown Associate Community Program — Liz Parham and Sherry Adams — will be in town on Sept. 14 to meet with Mandeville, Nichols and other city officials to lay out a road map for how Laurinburg can become an NC Main Street City.
The NC Main Street program assists selected communities across the state in restoring economic vitality to their historic downtowns. Using a comprehensive downtown revitalization process developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the program encourages economic development through historic preservation.
Laurinburg is one of four municipalities currently participating in the Downtown Associate Community Program along with Aberdeen, Chimney Rock and Elon. The program gives each town three years of assistance from the NC Main Street Center. Once they complete the program and meet the requirements each town can apply for official designation as a Main Street community, which according to Mandeville would open a lot of doors for the city.
“If we can become a Main Street community that would make us eligible for more money for downtown redevelopment,” he said. “The community is welcome to join us for about an hour on Sept. 14 at 8:30 a.m. for about an hour to give their input, ask questions and receive an update on our plans for downtown.”
Mandeville then opened the floor to questions, one Rotary member believed Laurinburg had previously been a Main Street city and wanted to know how the designation had been lost.
“What I was told was Laurinburg applied in either 1987 or 1989 and never got accepted,” he said.
Another Rotary member asked what type of businesses Mandeville hopes to bring to downtown.
“I would like to see a convenience store, a coffee shop where people can sit and catch up,” he said. “Some restaurants, maybe a bar or two and possibly even some apartments on the second and third floors of the historic buildings.”
Mandeville was introduced by city manager Charles Nichols, who gave the Rotary members in attendance a little bit of background on the West Virginia native.
“He is originally from Beckley, West Virginia but most recently was working in transportation in Cumberland County,” Nichols said. “Michael’s wife Holly is the volleyball coach at St. Andrews University and the two have a son named Jackson.”
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
Michael Mandeville http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Mike1.jpg Michael Mandeville | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6869/laurinburg-developer-hopes-to-bring-business-jobs-to-city | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/6c05628998956dec7a94f8a87ccf3193e60c65024918539fb980a971ae3ea0aa.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T22:48:36 | null | 2016-08-26T17:42:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2F6812%2Fmccrory-touts-uncp-price.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Pisano.jpg | en | null | McCrory touts UNCP price | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | PEMBROKE — Gov. Pat McCrory touted a plan that will lower tuition at The University of North Carolina Pembroke during a visit to the school on Thursday.
McCrory met with a group of students to talk about legislation passed earlier this year in the General Assembly that will bring down tuition at UNC Pembroke, Western Carolina University and Elizabeth City State University to $500 per semester for in-state students and $2,500 per year for out-of-state students beginning in the fall of 2018.
He called the students he met with not only the best of UNCP but the best of North Carolina. During a roundtable discussion, students shared their concerns with him and their relief at not having borrow as much money to go to college.
“It’s very disturbing for me to hear about kids getting into further debt and not being able to climb out of that debt within a reasonable time,” McCrory said at a press conference after his meeting with students. “This generation is having to deal with much greater financial pressures than my generation.”
McCrory’s Pembroke stop was part of a tour to discuss college affordability on campuses statewide.
McCrory said he is pleased that lower tuition rates will open the door for more students to get an education. He said he was further heartened by the fact that students told him they believed they would find good jobs when they graduated from UNCP.
“Hopefully there will be a very positive response from the students regarding the affordability of this great institution and that’s our major goal,” McCrory said, “to lower the cost of education, not only for the students but for the taxpayers of North Carolina.”
The state’s budget also freezes undergraduate tuition at all UNC system schools for students who graduate in four years, or five years for those enrolled in a five-year degree program. Another college affordability measure included in the budget caps university fee increases at three percent annually.
While these cost cuts help students, it will cost taxpayers more, McCrory said, because the state to budget $40 million to replace what will be lost in tuition. Responding to questions that the tuition drop might lead to overcrowded campuses, McCrory said he and Chancellor Dr. Robin Cummings discussed the possibility that whether, at a certain point in time, there will be a cap on the number of students.
“I think that’s an issue that we’re all going to have to resolve during the next year,” McCrory said, “knowing what the cost will be versus the capacity.”
Logan John, UNCP Student Government Association president, said the more people learn about the state’s efforts to make college more affordable, the more they appear to like it.
“Our student government endorsed the plan. I think as part of that, there is a level of trust with us because that may not exist with people they don’t know or they’ve never heard of in Raleigh,” John said.
Zachary Pisano, a freshman, was happy to hear of the tuition drop.
“I think it’s really good, especially for someone who had to take into consideration the fact that they didn’t really have a lot of money and they had to use some financial aid and loans to pay for the first semester,” Pisano said while on campus Wednesday. “Having the rates really low is really beneficial to some of the students because that lessens the amount of loans that they have to take out and it really helps with the costs.”
Destiny Nesmith, a freshman studying physical therapy, said the tuition cut may prevent her from having to take out a loan. Chrystal Threatt, a freshman with two sisters also attending UNCP, also saw that benefit.
“It will be less expensive so that way I can come without having to take out so many loans,” Threatt said.
Christopher Ajagbawa, a freshman, said he knows people wanted to attend UNCP, but didn’t have the money.
“I think it’s good that the school is opening up like that to a lot of people who can now afford to come here,” he said.
The tuition plan hasn’t been popular with everyone. The proposal, from Sen. Tom Apodaca, a Western Carolina alum, was met with backlash from students, alumni and faculty who worried it would devalue diplomas from the affected schools and cost schools needed revenue. Two schools initially included in the plan, Fayetteville State and Winston-Salem State, were taken out at their request.
Marco Benitez is also a freshman who favors the reduction, but said he has heard differing opinions from other students who have talked about transferring.
“They said a lot would change if we had so many more students. In my personal opinion, if I could still get my major, my education, it wouldn’t bother me,” Benitez said. “I’m not too picky about what school is like, personally.”
The governor on Thursday also talked about the state’s budget which provides $23 million in new funding to UNCP through Connect NC to build a new business school on campus. In total, Connect NC provides $1.3 billion in investments for universities and community colleges throughout the state.
Benitez http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Benitez.jpg Benitez UNCP Chancellor Robin Cummings, Gov. Pat McCrory and NC Secretary of Education Catherine Truitt met with UNCP students on Thursday to talk about the state’s efforts to make college more affordable. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Gov-1.jpg UNCP Chancellor Robin Cummings, Gov. Pat McCrory and NC Secretary of Education Catherine Truitt met with UNCP students on Thursday to talk about the state’s efforts to make college more affordable. Lesmith http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Lesmith.jpg Lesmith Pisano http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Pisano.jpg Pisano
By Terri Ferguson Smith [email protected]
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-416-5865
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-416-5865 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/6812/mccrory-touts-uncp-price | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/e8c261472c6cda0c4ed32d5b5f6a7d7f8e02f7df848778d43b5421f19ee6bfbd.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T12:50:40 | null | 2016-08-30T08:42:39 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news-1%2F6849%2Flaurinburg-student-charged-in-robbery.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6849/laurinburg-student-charged-in-robbery | en | null | Laurinburg student charged in robbery | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — A 17-year-old was arrested Monday morning at Scotland High School and charged with attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and robbery with a dangerous weapon following an incident Sunday afternoon.
Shaihem McLeod was charged with attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and robbery with a dangerous weapon following an incident Sunday afternoon, according to the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials said McLeod is being charged as an adult.
Deputies accuse McLeod and another man of robbing two people at gunpoint Sunday while they were sitting in a car outside of an apartment complex on S.C. 385 near Gibson.
Police are still looking for the other man involved in the robbery.
McLeod is being held at the Scotland County Detention Center in a section for 16 and 17-year-old offenders.
Anyone with information on the robbery is asked to call the sheriff’s office at 910-276-3385 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6849/laurinburg-student-charged-in-robbery | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/f7eddba22b613155c971c94ff31b9145577b11287629c6b549ef8309feab6bd5.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:48:42 | null | 2016-08-24T12:51:27 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6778%2Ffestival-honors-college-history.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_BMC-Art-2.jpg | en | null | Festival honors college history | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — More than 40 years after artists gathered to commemorate the impact they and others made on the culture of Black Mountain College, a festival celebrating the liberal arts institution continues this Friday.
In the spring of 1974, St. Andrews Presbyterian College, now St. Andrews University, held the first Black Mountain College Festival to celebrate its history, mission, and its arts.
American architect and inventor, Buckminster Fuller delivered the opening address and built one of his famous geodesic domes on campus. Poets Robert Creeley and Jonathan Williams read from their works. Dancer John Cage and choreographer Merce Cunningham staged a collaborative music and dance performance.
Historian Martin Duberman and literary critic Leslie Fiedler gave lectures. The works of artists Robert Rauschenberg and Josef Albers were exhibited. The Baroque Ensemble and the Clarion Woodwind Quintet from the North Carolina School of the Arts and the Piedmont Chamber Orchestra performed three concerts.
In the fall of 2016, St. Andrews University is highlighting its connection to Black Mountain College with a semester-long festival showcasing poets and artists who have been influenced by the legendary school as well as scholars who have studied its history.
Scotland County should be proud of its connection to Black Mountain College, which was open from 1933 to 1957, but closed due to lack of funding, according to Dr. Ted Wojtasik, festival co-host and professor of English at SAU.
“It is a piece of North Carolina history. It was in Appalachia, it was in Black Mountain. We as North Carolinians can take pride that the school is in our state,” Wojtasik said.
It was built during the heights of the Great Depression era, he said and it was influenced by the John Dewey method.
“It was an experimental and innovative school with an arts-centered curriculum,” Wojtasik said. “Artists, musicians, dancers and writers taught artists musicians dancers and writers.”
It may not seem remarkable now, Wojtasik said, but at the time, it was.
More than 30 scholars, artists, poets, writers, musicians, inventors, and dancers will be involved in the Black Mountain College Festival 2016. Events will include poetry readings by Whit Griffin, Peter O’Leary, Jonathan Greene, Lisa Jarnot, Thomas Meyer, Basil King, Shannon Tharp, Nathaniel Mackey, and Mary de Rachewiltz.
Tom Patterson, Madge McKeithen, Ted Wojtasik, Jane Unrue, Martha King, Allegra Fuller Snyder, and Musa Mayer will read prose.
Panelists for discussions include: Joseph Bathanti and Mary Emma Harris on the history and influence of BMC; Ronald H. Bayes, F. Whitney Jones, Tom Patterson, and Neal Bushoven on reminiscences of the 1974 Festival; Madge McKeithen, Ted Wojtasik, and Jane Unrue on Open Prose; Thomas Meyer and Lisa Jarnot on reminiscences of Robert Creeley and Jonathan Williams; Musa Mayer, Mary de Rachewiltz, and Allegra Fuller Snyder on fathers and daughters; and Joseph Bathanti, Eva Diaz, and Mary Emma Harris on the future of Black Mountain College.
The first panel discussion is set to take place Friday at 6 p.m. in the Hogan Choral Room located in the Vardell building on the SAU campus.
Other events include a musical program by Sean Moore; three art exhibitions: Jonathan Williams’ Outsider Art Work, by Tom Patterson; Poetry, Textiles & Photography, a collaborative art work, by Dobree Adams and Jonathan Green; and Basil King Art Work, by Basil King.
Kurt Przybilla will present a science project; the Helen Simoneau Dance Company and the Douglas Dunn Dance Company will perform; and Tom Patterson will interview Martha and Basil King, BMC graduates, about their time there.
The Vardell Art Gallery, which will host the “Way-out People Way Out There” art exhibit, is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, starting August 26 and ending Sept. 23.
Wojtasik said he hopes that teachers at all high schools and middle schools in Laurinburg and Scotland County will plan class trips to see dance performances or view art exhibits. All events are free and open to the public.
Self-Portrait with a Bus and Bird, a painted wood cutout construction by James Harold Jenning, is among pieces on display at St. Andrew’s University during the Black Mountain College Festival at the Vardell Art Gallery. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, starting August 26 and ending Sept. 23. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_BMC-Art-2.jpg Self-Portrait with a Bus and Bird, a painted wood cutout construction by James Harold Jenning, is among pieces on display at St. Andrew’s University during the Black Mountain College Festival at the Vardell Art Gallery. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, starting August 26 and ending Sept. 23.
Black Mountain College Festival begins Friday | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6778/festival-honors-college-history | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/0e595edd88f36f5347dd70e378a5cb24eb0e4e9c9858f5bed056a72b5e42a5de.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-27T04:48:44 | null | 2016-08-26T23:26:55 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6817%2Fscots-defense-for-the-win.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_156.jpg | en | null | Scots defense for the win | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Fighting Scots defense was ready to play Friday night coming away with three interceptions and a fumble recovery — not to mention the 33-0 shutout victory over Independence.
The outstanding play of the Scots defense helped make up for some of the mishaps the offense was having. The offensive success the Scots did have, head coach Richard Bailey gave credit to the defense for setting up those touchdown drives.
“Defense played incredible,” he said. “Literally even when we scored on offense they were set up by defensive turnovers. Great job to our coaches and players on our defense. I can’t say enough about them. Hopefully they get a little credit, we’ve got a really good defense and they are well coached.”
The first interception by the Scots came off a tipped pass from Independence quarterback Wes Cook into the arms of Kalish McNair. McNair, with blockers in front of him, took the ball down to the 21-yard line. That play set up the Scots final touchdown of the game, a long pass from quarterback Sergio Gibson to wide receiver Barry Campbell.
The third quarter started with a fumble recovery by the Scots defense that set up a Syheam “Smiley” McQueen touchdown. Amir McNeill ended the third quarter with an interception. Just a few minutes later Alston Smith came down with another interception. The game ended on a last second pass by Independence that was knocked down pass by defensive back Tyrek Waters.
McQueen scored three of the Scots five touchdowns. The sophomore running back along with Khalil Smith shared the workload because Zamir White was sidelined — but still dressed — with a deep thigh bruise.
Despite putting 33 points on the board Bailey isn’t looking forward to watching his offense on film tomorrow.
“I’m embarrassed by the way the offense played,” he said. “In 25 years of coaching I don’t know if there has been a more frustrating night with mental errors, lack of execution and kids not doing what they’re supposed to do. Literally going over it with them on the board, telling them we’re getting ready to run the play, showing them who to block and then going out there and blocking completely wrong. Kids not knowing where to line up, not knowing basic formations — just basic stuff we have to do better on.”
Not having White in the backfield seemed to throw the Scots offense slightly off balance, but Bailey knows that despite a poor offensive showing — by Scotland standards — a win is still a win and it gets his team one step closer to a state championship.
“It’s never as bad as you think it is,” Bailey said. “Offensive line we’ve got to get a lot, a lot, a lot did I say a lot better. It’s just disappointing but Indy did a great job of moving around and doing some things. Usually what we see people do on film they throw that away and try to do the Scotland County defense. That’s where we have to be smart enough to make adjustments. As coaches we are, but as players we’re struggling to pick up in game adjustments. If it ain’t what we’ve done all week I might as well be speaking Chinese on the sideline and that’s frustrating.”
Looking ahead to next week, Scotland will host Marlboro County next Friday at Pate Stadium. Kick off for that game is set for 7:30 p.m.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
Kalish McNair (35) had one of three interceptions by the Scotland secondary during Friday’s home opener against Independence. The Scots were able to keep the Patriots off the scoreboard to pick up a 33-0 victory. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_McNair-INT.jpg Kalish McNair (35) had one of three interceptions by the Scotland secondary during Friday’s home opener against Independence. The Scots were able to keep the Patriots off the scoreboard to pick up a 33-0 victory. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_156.jpg
Blank Independence 33-0 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6817/scots-defense-for-the-win | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/96463d6ef3fab39080dfb89c5961048d560f237c8c4f2aaa89fe1549830f91a8.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:48 | null | 2016-08-24T19:36:04 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6786%2Flaurinburg-events-to-remember-911.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_911_cmyk.jpg | en | null | Laurinburg events to remember 9/11 | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — As the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks nears, several local remembrances are being planned to mark the date.
On Sept. 1 , First United Methodist Church in Laurinburg will hold an event called Hope on the Hill — an outdoor prayer service to pray for police and first responders in Scotland County to commemorate Sept. 11.
The program, which is open to the public, will combine scripture, hymns, testimony, prayers and information. The brief service will take place at noon at the three crosses on the Hill facing Main Street behind the church at 101 W. Church St.
There will will also be a program on Sept. 10 hosted by McDougald Funeral Home and Crematorium to honor local firefighters, law enforcement officers, military personnel, volunteer rescue squad members, first responders, 911 communications staff and EMS personnel. The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Clinton V. Willis National Guard Armory.
“Our firefighters, law enforcement and these other groups, not just here, but everywhere are under appreciated,” said Sherrill Bumgarner, McDougald owner. “We want to recognize them for serving and protecting our community. We will be serving lunch to the honorees and their immediate family members at 1 p.m. which will be provided by local businesses.”
There will be several guest speakers who will offer words of appreciation and support.
The Scotland County High School JROTC will be presenting the nation’s colors and a bagpiper will be present along with someone who will perform Taps.
“D.H. Griffin of Greensboro, who handled the salvage operation of the Twin Towers, has graciously offered to loan us a piece of the towers for display,” Bumgarner said. “The community has been very supportive and we hope the public will come out to recognize these individuals and show our appreciation for what they do for our community.”
For information, contact McDougald Funeral Home and Crematorium at 910-276-2200.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_911_cmyk.jpg | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6786/laurinburg-events-to-remember-911 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/063a763b95203d0d6d39599308f33525e6875f46d1a61cea280b7cee4be27f88.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:51:18 | null | 2016-08-25T17:24:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6797%2Fdefensive-player-of-the-week.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_046.jpg | en | null | Defensive Player of the Week | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Chris Williams is a 6-foot 2-inch junior at Scotland High School. He is also one of the starting linebackers, wearing No. 9, for the Fighting Scots this season and has been named this week’s Defensive Player of the Week.
Each Friday, the Exchange will feature one offensive, one defensive and one special teams player from the Fighting Scots, chosen by the coaches, to be the Players of the Week.
Chris had an outstanding game against South View and was always around where the ball was, which is why head coach Richard Bailey selected him as the Offensive Player of the Week.
“Chris was always in the right place against South View,” said Bailey. “He had zero mental errors and hustled all night.”
The 220-pound junior hopes he can continue his football career when he graduates but is still undecided on where he wants to attend college. Chris plans to major in engineering at whatever college he chooses and would one day like to have a career as a civil engineer.
Something people might not know about Chris is that he likes to play basketball.
When asked what he is most looking forward to in the 2016 season he said is helping the Fighting Scots win a 4A State Championship.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3171.
Chris Williams http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_046.jpg Chris Williams | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6797/defensive-player-of-the-week | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/a839bc94902c1af166fdcd500a44dd21afa15c6813343908d4be839df6312f2a.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T12:51:00 | null | 2016-08-31T07:37:09 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2F6871%2Flocal-artists-sought-for-nc-duck-stamp-competition.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_duckstamp.jpg | en | null | Local artists sought for NC duck stamp competition | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | RALEIGH — The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the Washington Tourism Development Authority are calling all artists for their annual N.C. Waterfowl Conservation Stamp Print competition.
The winning artwork will be featured on the 2017-18 waterfowl conservation stamp, also known as the North Carolina duck stamp. Artists 18 years old and older are eligible to enter the competition. Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m., Jan. 20, 2017 to the Washington Tourism Development Authority, located at 108 Gladden Street, Washington, N.C. 27889.
The Commission and the Washington Tourism Development Authority sponsor the annual national contest, which typically draws artists from across the United States. This year, artists may submit a full-color, realistic rendering of tundra swans, blue-winged teal, ring-necked duck, gadwall, or bufflehead, which must be depicted in the appropriate habitat.
Artwork will be judged on the following criteria:
• Level and accuracy of detail in all aspects of the anatomy of waterfowl;
• Appropriateness, accuracy and detail in depiction of the selected species’ habitat;
• Attractiveness and creativity of the composition, regarding spatial balance, lighting and harmony of subject and background; and,
• Visual appeal and suitability for reproduction at both the print and stamp scales.
Artists may submit only one design, in whatever medium they choose. Images must be horizontal, 13 inches by 18 inches, matted in white to outside dimensions of 18 inches by 23 inches and should be loosely covered with a protective overleaf, although not framed or covered with glass. The image should bear no signature or other marks that would identify the artist.
Complete entry guidelines, as well as specific requirements for artwork, are located on the Little Washington website .
The winning design will be selected by a panel of five judges who have expertise in waterfowl biology or artistic method and expression. The judging will take place on Jan. 24, 2017 and the winner will be notified shortly after. The winner will receive $7,000 in prize money.
Proceeds from sales of the print and stamp support the Wildlife Resources Commission’s Waterfowl Fund, which generates revenue for the conservation of waterfowl habitat in North Carolina.
For more information about the Waterfowl Conservation Stamp and Print Competition, visit the Washington Tourism Development Authority at www.littlewashingtonnc.com. For more information on waterfowl hunting and licenses in North Carolina, visit www.ncwildlife.org/hunting.
Courtesy image Artists are being sought for the annual N.C. Waterfowl Conservation Stamp Print competition. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_duckstamp.jpg Courtesy image Artists are being sought for the annual N.C. Waterfowl Conservation Stamp Print competition. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/6871/local-artists-sought-for-nc-duck-stamp-competition | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/be4c8fa596e1ef38aafc2292e4b0ea2940b87e60b7a7ff5c99920d3265b889e8.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T00:49:54 | null | 2016-08-28T20:07:55 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6825%2Fscotland-educators-prepare-for-school-start.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_bailey.jpg | en | null | Scotland educators prepare for school start | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Scotland High School served as host for the annual Scotland County schools employee convocation that seemed to not only act as an awards ceremony but also a chance to motivate teachers and administrators before the start of school on Monday.
With the SHS auditorium packed to the point of standing room only, spontaneous cheers from the teachers representing every school in the county added to the energy present at Friday’s event.
Ron Hargrave, Scotland County Schools superintendent, opened the ceremony by pumping up the crowd.
“I assure you there is a method to the madness,” Hargrave said. “I want to say thank you to the transportation staff, maintenance and last but not least the custodial staff and last last but certainly to least least the cafeteria staff, and last last last but certainly not least least least, our technology staff.”
Raymond Hyatt a member of the county Board of Education, talked about the importance of educators.
“Not an individual in this room is here that has not had a mark made upon them,” Hyatt said. “Someone along the way has impacted you.
“For those brave enough to teach high school, you have the opportunity to impact over 4,500 students over a 30 year career.”
Before handing out top awards, Hargrave invited all the principals and Richard Bailey, SHS athletic director to take part a “Running Man challenge.”
Among the awards given were principal, assistant principal, teacher, beginning teacher and teacher assistant of the year.
The 2015-16 Principal of the Year was awarded to Mary Hemphill of I. Ellis Johnson elementary and David Johnson of Scotland High School was named the Assistant Principal of the Year.
Scotland High School was also home to the Teacher of the Year award winner, Kelly Cheek, who not only received $1,000 for the achievement, but is also going to receive a car from Griffin Nissan.
This years, Beginner Teacher of the Year was awarded to Martin Davis, who started his career in law enforcement before switching gears to help at risk youth attending the Shaw Academy.
The Teacher Assistant of the Year was given to Dennis McFatten of Carver Middle School. McFatten also serves as the defensive back coach for SHS.
“I am going to win Beginner Teacher of the Year next year,” McFatten said.
Jalin McLean, a ninth-grader at Scotland High, said McFatten’s recognition was well deserved.
“He is a cool coach and a good role model to students at Carver,” said the 14-year-old who attended Carver Middle School last year.
Richard Bailey, Scotland High Schools athletic director dances on stage with Ron Hargrave, Scotland County schools superintendent, far right, during Friday’s convocation. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_bailey.jpg Richard Bailey, Scotland High Schools athletic director dances on stage with Ron Hargrave, Scotland County schools superintendent, far right, during Friday’s convocation.
Event celebrates school start
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6825/scotland-educators-prepare-for-school-start | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/3f8f42cb773ee86716f16e43c5bcd7fd543da7d7866e34012cb65e844865bbc2.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T20:50:45 | null | 2016-08-30T15:55:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6857%2Flarson-finally-lands-in-victory-lane.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Cagle2-3.jpg | en | null | Larson finally lands in victory lane | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | On April 13, 2013, I watched Kyle Larson stink up my show.
At the time, I was the public relations director at Rockingham Speedway and this 20-year old kid from California led 187 of 205 laps in what would turn out to be, to date, the last race at the one-mile track. It was his first NASCAR national touring series victory after winning four races in the K&N Pro Series East in 2012.
A few months later, it was announced that Larson would be replacing Juan Pablo Montoya in Chip Ganassi’s No. 42 Chevrolet in the Sprint Cup Series. Fast forward to last Sunday and Larson picked up his first Cup win at Michigan by outdueling fellow youngster Chase Elliott. The win has been a long time coming for the third-year driver, which has been much different than his other stops in racing. To this point Larson’s career had been marked by a whole lot of almost-won and heartbreaking circumstances that have kept him out of victory lane.
“This feels different because it’s taken me a lot longer than it took me in any of the other stuff to get a win,” Larson said. “Took me a couple months to win my first sprint car race, four days after my 15th birthday. Took me a few months to win when I got into USAC.
“This, after the way my rookie season started, coming close a few times, not getting it done, you can visualize the win that early in your career. It’s going to happen. It’s going to happen. But it just never happened.”
Until now. And it couldn’t have been a better time for Larson and his Ganassi Racing team. The win secures him a spot in this year’s Chase for this first time in his career.
“He hung in there with our team,” team owner Chip Ganassi said. “We’ve been building over the years. He came in here and the team rallied around him. I can’t say enough about the kid and the job he’s done over the last few years. It’s been a nice gradual coming through the pack. I couldn’t be happier with Kyle right now.
“That was a big one (to break the winless streak). I hate to put the onus on somebody else but I’m so glad. To go winless for so long, it’s really, really difficult. Only one person wins in this sport. It’s like golf. We’re just so glad to be here.”
There are few things I like about this win. 1. It wasn’t a win for Joe Gibbs or Penske or Hendrick or Stewart-Haas who have won 21 of 23 races in 2016. Not that Chip Ganassi is a little guy, but they have gone a while without a win. 2. I am happy to see the young guys establishing themselves in Cup. And it’s not just Larson. Elliott finished second and had a legitimate shot at winning. Ryan Blaney finished fourth driving for the Wood Brothers.
The third thing isn’t just about Larson. For the first time in history, NASCAR had three first-time series winners in its national touring series this past weekend. Brett Moffitt won in the trucks, Michael McDowell in Xfinity and Larson. For Moffitt and McDowell, it was their first national touring series wins. Again, this bodes well for the future of the sport.
So that’s enough about the future. I want to talk about the past. Sort of.
After last year, I am so looking forward to throwback weekend at Darlington this Saturday and Sunday. Last year, the retro, 1960’s cars, driving suits and TV effects were awesome. This year it’s 70s and 80s and there are some ballin’ paint schemes I remember from my childhood. There were many times I said, “that is the best one yet,” only to have to repeat myself at the next unveil. I am digging on the No. 88 Buddy Baker “Gray Ghost” tribute, Clint Bowyer’s Benny Parsons 1973 championship throwback, Greg Biffle’s Alan Kulwicki Hooters car, Brad Keselowski’s Miller Lite ride and Austin Dillon’s Ricky Rudd Piedmont Airlines Chevy.
I applaud NASCAR for what they have done at Darlington. The race becomes an event and pays homage to bygone era that NASCAR fans long for.
Cagle http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Cagle2-3.jpg Cagle | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6857/larson-finally-lands-in-victory-lane | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/e36d25da0fb19944228482c78b33c9276aa0dc87fc0320cb0ec0f18d74b85284.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:24 | null | 2016-08-24T18:33:14 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6781%2Fscots-ready-for-home-opener.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_119.jpg | en | null | Scots ready for home opener | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Fighting Scots and Independence had two drastically different Week 1 outcomes. The Scots cruised past South View 41-7 while Independence got shut out by Dutch Fork, 45-0.
This year Independence is coming into Pate Stadium with a chip on its shoulder following last season’s 42-13 to Scotland, after being tabbed as one of the few teams capable of upsetting the Scots.
“Last year there were people thinking Independence might have something for us,” said coach Richard Bailey. “They are probably a little upset with what happened last week too, so I would look for them to come out a little more fired up.”
To go along with self imploding during their season opener Independence has faced internal turmoil over the past few weeks as head coach Scott Young was fired one week before the season started. Young was replaced by offensive coordinator Hal Brown.
No word was given by the school on why Young was fired, according to multiple media outlets.
It didn’t help the Patriots that Dutch Fork has played in the South Carolina state championship three of the last four years — winning the state championship two of those years.
“They (Independence) were playing a very good football team,” said Bailey. “Things started going bad for them and I think it sort of snowballed on them.”
Independence only managed eight first downs the entire game and incurred seven penalties for 66 yards. The Patriots gave up 306 yards of total offense to Dutch Fork — 119 in receiving yards and 115 rushing.
Bailey said despite Independence’s recent struggles traditionally they are a good football team and could still prove to be a challenge for the Scots on Friday.
“Independence has some good football players. They have a proud program and football is a big deal to them,” Bailey said. “They won eight straight state championships in the early 2000s.”
The Patriots offense is led by junior quarterback Weston Cook and they run a balanced offense, mixing in the run and pass. Bailey said they do have some tall wide receivers and a good running back, which makes them very versatile.
On defense, the Patriots are more of a by-the-book 4-3 or 4-4 type of team according to Bailey.
“All three of their linebackers are returning from last year’s team, so they have some good depth there. They also have a couple of their defensive backs returning from last year,” he said. “I think where they are hurting a little bit is on the offensive and defensive line. We feel like we have an advantage up front on both sides of the ball and we like those match ups.”
Heading into Week 2, Bailey has seen an improvement in his team’s blocking which was something he wasn’t very impressed with following the South View game.
“One thing about playing South View is they had so many people around the ball, blitzing and stuff they make you look bad at times,” he said. “Independence is a little more of a line up like you’re supposed to line up team; hopefully, that will help us out in who we block because at times South View had us a little bit confused.”
Scotland gave up 293 all purpose yards last week to South View and had six penalties that cost them 33 yards and stalled a few drives.
Bailey is excited for the Scots to be playing in their home opener and wants to give the fans and players that collegiate-type experience.
“It’s always great playing in Pate Stadium,” he said. “We have the greatest fans in North Carolina. It will be a great atmosphere. I can’t think of a better place to play high school football than Pate Stadium to be honest with you.”
To help with the collegiate atmosphere, Scotland High School has teamed up with Scotland Motors to give fans a chance to win a car at halftime.
“We’re excited about that. You go to the college games whether it’s basketball or football and they have the games to win a scholarship or a car. We’re trying to build that halftime excitement,” Bailey said. “We’re going to use one of the 50/50 tickets and draw one at halftime for a chance to win a car from Scotland Motors and then they will draw the normal 50/50 ticket at the end of the third quarter and the winner will get the split of the money.”
Bailey did admit in order to win the car the person whose 50/50 ticket is selected with have to complete some sort of football related task, but he wouldn’t give out any hints.
“We’re keeping that under wraps, we don’t want people out in the community practicing,” he said. “It will be something to do with football. We’ll surprise everyone with that Friday night.”
The Scots and Independence will kick off at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, Aug. 26 at Pate Stadium.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
The Fighting Scots look to keep the momentum going after they cruised to victory against South View. The Scots will host Independence this Friday in their home opener at Pate Stadium. Kick off is set for 7:30 p.m. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_040.jpg The Fighting Scots look to keep the momentum going after they cruised to victory against South View. The Scots will host Independence this Friday in their home opener at Pate Stadium. Kick off is set for 7:30 p.m. Amber Hatten|Laurinburg Exchange Scotland wide receiver Barry Campbell had the Scots only receiving touchdown during last Friday’s game against South View. Campbell had three catches for 42 yards. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_119.jpg Amber Hatten|Laurinburg Exchange Scotland wide receiver Barry Campbell had the Scots only receiving touchdown during last Friday’s game against South View. Campbell had three catches for 42 yards.
Set to take on Independence | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6781/scots-ready-for-home-opener | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/b0c3afc2e17cdb9c375448705ac358fa6c31912eb577a2b479c5470ab76c135d.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T20:50:20 | null | 2016-08-29T16:26:32 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6836%2Flady-scots-come-out-on-top.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_006-1.jpg | en | null | Lady Scots come out on top | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Lady Scots volleyball team played a total of 12 sets last week between its three games — which adds up to a lot of time on the court. It took five, very close, sets to upend Union Pines on Wednesday. Then on Thursday the Lady Scots took down Cape Fear in three sets before battling through four sets with Terry Sanford.
Scotland made the hour drive to Union Pines on Thursday and the Lady Vikings came out swinging to take the first set, 25-23. The Lady Scots would have to battle for every one of their points in the next four sets to pull out the victory.
In the second set, the Lady Scots narrowly topped Union Pines, 25-22 before the Lady Vikings came back to force a five-set game with a 25-23 win. The Lady Scots were able to keep their composure and fight through the fourth set to pick up a 25-22 win. That momentum carried over into the fifth and final set as the Lady Scots put away the Lade Vikings, 15-8.
A few line-up changes according to coach Adam Romaine was the key to the Lady Scots victory, which included subbing in Maggie Laviner, who had three kills.
“After sitting some starters the first couple of games, we played with more heart and teamwork,” he said. “Maggie had big plays that kept out volleys alive.”
Junior Macie Gibson and senior Emma Gray lead the team in passing and sophomore Kandon Luquer lead the team in kills with nine.
On Thursday, the Lady Scots traveled to Cape Fear to play in a tri-match with Terry Sanford. The teams only quick game of the week came against host Cape Fear. The Lady Scots fell to Cape Fear in three games — 17-25, 19-25 and 16-25.
“We came out flat after a big win the night before and loss to Cape Fear in three,” said Romaine. “We were able to turn it around in the next match against Terry Sanford.”
The Lady Scots defeated the Lady Bulldogs in four sets — but not before they got off to a slow start. Scotland dropped the first set 17-25 before powering through the next three for the win — 25-21, 25-20, 25-15.
Nahir Pegues lead the team against Terry Sanford with seven kills and four blocks.
Coach Romaine was impressed with the effort he saw from Luquer and Ashley McGugan in the Lady Scots final game of the week.
“Ashley stepped up in the last two games and had some big kills to change the tempo,” he said. “Kandon played exceptionally well across the front line. She continues to excel for us this year. We still need to continue to work on serve receive and get better fast!! That’s where we have the most unforced errors and it’s cost us one of our two games.”
The Lady Scots were back in action Monday as they traveled to South Columbus for a rematch with the Stallions, who bested Scotland last week at home. On Wednesday, the Lady Scots will head to Douglas Byrd. JV games will begin at 5 p.m. with varsity to follow.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
Scotland’s Ashley McGugan (7) hits a kill in between two South Columbus blockers during a home game. McGugan helped the Lady Scots beat Terry Sanford on Thursday during a tri-match at Cape Fear. Scotland traveled to South Columbus on Monday for a rematch with the Stallions. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_006-1.jpg Scotland’s Ashley McGugan (7) hits a kill in between two South Columbus blockers during a home game. McGugan helped the Lady Scots beat Terry Sanford on Thursday during a tri-match at Cape Fear. Scotland traveled to South Columbus on Monday for a rematch with the Stallions.
Finished week 2-1 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6836/lady-scots-come-out-on-top | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/1efa58d761eca6e23a9526986fe705b8dea4836b8305b5f767e8ec02cfe20327.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T20:48:35 | null | 2016-08-26T16:47:29 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6805%2Fjv-shuts-out-independence.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_042-1.jpg | en | null | JV shuts out Independence | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Fighting Scots JV football team picked up a shut-out win over Independence on Thursday, 28-0.
The Scots took an early 8-0 lead in the first quarter off a 12-yard run by Michael Bennett and a two-point conversion that was run in by quarterback Bruce Wall.
The second Scots touchdown came from the special teams with a 61-yard punt return for a touchdown by Joseph McKay. The team was unable to get the two-point conversion, but went into halftime with a 14-0 lead.
After halftime, the Fighting Scots scored their third touchdown off a five-yard run by Bennett and a two-point conversion by Wall. The short run was set up by a 45-yard trip play the Scots offense ran.
The fourth and final touchdown of the game for the Scot came off an 80-yard interception by Isiah Wilson.
JV coach Michael Sellers was pleased with his team’s overall performance, but admitted there is still room for improvement.
“We shot ourselves in the foot a few times with penalties,” he said. “We were excited about our offense in practice but during the game we had to play it big because our drives kept stalling due to the penalties. I thought our defense played super great and our offense was good. I thought we were aggressive and executed well on our big plays.”
The JV Scots defense only allowed Independence to manufacture three first downs. Sellers credited Tymeri Graham, Sha-james Gibson and Mohammad Kaba for their efforts in holding the Independence offense in check.
Bruce Wall (7) breaks free against East Bladen during the Battle of the Carolinas Football Classic that was held in Lumberton last month. Wall helped lead the Scots JV football team to a 28-0 victory over Independence on Thursday. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_042-1.jpg Bruce Wall (7) breaks free against East Bladen during the Battle of the Carolinas Football Classic that was held in Lumberton last month. Wall helped lead the Scots JV football team to a 28-0 victory over Independence on Thursday. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6805/jv-shuts-out-independence | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/bba8c505c834736aa27fa7e8f918cc352e7acfea1140eae82f55d7cdde9f806e.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:51:49 | null | 2016-08-25T18:23:41 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6799%2Ftennnis-opens-season-with-shut-out-win.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_7513.jpg | en | null | Tennnis opens season with shut-out win | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Lady Scots tennis team got off to an impressive start on Tuesday as they shut out Jack Britt — twice — in their season opener.
The 2-0 start came as a result of an 8-1 victory over Jack Britt, followed by a 9-0 shut-out win by the Lady Scots. The ten member team welcomes back seven starters from their 2015 squad, including four seniors.
The 2016 Lady Scots team features six singles players Camryn Ellis, Claire Carter, Anna Griswold, Cheyanne Strong, Brooke Bathie, and Samantha Bowen. The two sets of doubles players include Grace McIntyre, Karrigan Campbell, Liza McIntyre, and Taylor Presnell.
In the first singles position, Ellis was paired against Jack Britt’s Anna Goldsmith. Ellis make quick work of their match winning in straight sets, 6-0, 6-0. Scotland’s Carter also had an uneventful night on the courts as she topped Jack Britt’s Krishna Patel in two sets, 6-0, 6-3.
Scotland’s Strong was pitted against Leonie Brown and picked up her first singles victory in straight sets, 6-0, 6-0. Also picking up two-set victories for the Lady Scots were Bowen over Jack Britt’s Brittany Brown, 6-4, 6-2 and G. McIntyre over Jack Britt’s Zoia Graham, 6-3, 6-1.
The Lady Scots only singles loss of the match game during the third singles match between Griswold and Jack Britt’s Natasha Benson. Griswold fell to Benson in two sets, 0-6, 3-6.
The two doubles teams from the Lady Scots picked up the other two victories in Tuesday’s first match against Jack Britt. The Lady Scots second match against the Lady Buccaneers had a similar outcome with Scotland sweeping the match 9-0.
The Lady Scots traveled to Cape Fear on Thursday to take on the Lady Colts. Coach Atondra Ellis and her team will be back in action on Sept. 1 as they host Purnell Swett at 4 p.m.
FILE — In this Exchange file photo, Scotland’s Grace McIntyre attempts to return a serve turing a match in 2015. McIntyre is one of seven returning players for the Lady Scots tennis team this season. The Lady Scots are 2-0 after earning back-to-back wins over Jack Britt on Tuesday. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_7513.jpg FILE — In this Exchange file photo, Scotland’s Grace McIntyre attempts to return a serve turing a match in 2015. McIntyre is one of seven returning players for the Lady Scots tennis team this season. The Lady Scots are 2-0 after earning back-to-back wins over Jack Britt on Tuesday. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6799/tennnis-opens-season-with-shut-out-win | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/53e649e584028c5b51ab9a6b45ab627b261cd9a52ef0444637fb29762165c126.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:51 | null | 2016-08-24T19:46:11 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6791%2Fscotland-county-schools-prepare-for-new-year.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_6241.jpg | en | null | Scotland County schools prepare for new year | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG —The new school year does not kick off until Monday, but a bunch of nine graders got their first taste of what high school life will be like.
Scotland High School held an open house on Tuesday to acquaint new students ahead of the new academic year. Ninth graders got a chance to see the campus, find classroom and meet teachers.
“I am excited to get registered for school here at Scotland High School and start classes,” said Aaron Goode, an incoming ninth-grade student.
There was an open house for student in grades 10 to 12 on Wednesday. County middle schools and Shaw Academy also held open houses on Wednesday. Elementary schools in Scotland County will hold open house today from 4 to 7 p.m.
“I am ready for school to start, it has been a long summer,” said Kaylee Miller, an 11th grader, who helped hand out schedules to the incoming ninth graders on Tuesday.
As motivation to do well in school, Scotland Motors will donate a car to a high school student, according to Meredith Bounds, school public information officer. Good grades and behavior will determine the winner.
“Students will be awarded tickets for good grades and attendance and their names will be thrown into the hopper to win the car,” Bounds said. “I wish they had this when I was in school.”
The prize is a 2015 Chevrolet Spark.
“We wanted to celebrate our 50th anniversary while also saying thank you to the community,” said Lee Howell, owner of Scotland Motors. “We couldn’t have picked a better partner than the school system.”
Teachers and staff will get their own kick off to the new school year with the annual convocation that will take place Friday at 9 a.m. in the high school auditorium.
Awards for the prior year’s principal, assistant principal, teacher, and teacher assistant of the year will be given out at the convocation.
“The convocation gives us an opportunity to celebrate to past and upcoming school year,” Bounds said.
Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Incoming students picking up the class schedules from Scotland High School students Tyler Sellers, Kaylee Miller and Negie Babor. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_shs.jpg Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Incoming students picking up the class schedules from Scotland High School students Tyler Sellers, Kaylee Miller and Negie Babor. Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Members of the Scotland High School varsity cheerleading squad helped welcome members of the Class of 2020 during Tuesday’s freshmen open house. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_6241.jpg Nolan Gilmour|Laurinburg Exchange Members of the Scotland High School varsity cheerleading squad helped welcome members of the Class of 2020 during Tuesday’s freshmen open house.
Scotland schools start Monday
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6791/scotland-county-schools-prepare-for-new-year | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/e8984d7768c383edf43ea0fcd25c0c88ecca87421ad22f58bf298ac43619f9f5.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T14:50:39 | null | 2016-08-30T10:14:08 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal%2F6851%2Fcrime-report-34.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local/6851/crime-report-34 | en | null | Laurinburg Exchange | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | Sexual assault
LAURINBURG — A Laurinburg woman reported she was sexually assaulted after an older man offered to drive her home near East Vance Street and Caledonia Road, police said. The victim told police the man drove her to a location where he sexually assaulted her and later returned her to East Vance Street and Caledonia Road. The police department asks anyone who may have information regarding this case to call 910-506-3171.
Fraud
LAURINBURG — Scotland Stop and Shop, at 1612 South Main Street, reported that someone attempted to cash a fake Campbell’s Soup Company check on Sunday, police said.
Thefts
LAURINBURG — A guest of the Clinton Inn reported assorted tools and a cell phone stolen from his vehicle after if was broken into in the parking lot on Sunday, according to police. The stolen items were valued at $3,400.
LAURINBURG — A resident of the 600 block of East Covington Street reported that a wallet and hat stolen after her vehicle had been broken into on Saturday, according to police. The stolen items were valued at $80.
LAURINBURG — A resident of the 800 block of Jackson Street reported three televisions, a camera and gaming system were stolen from a residence on Saturday, according to police. The stolen items were valued at $2,500.
LAURINBURG — A resident of the 1000 block of Turnpike Road reported a firearm was stolen from a vehicle on Friday, according to police.
LAURINBURG — A Maxton man reported a washing machine, dryer and furniture were stolen from a Storage Solutions storage unit at 1620 South Main Street on Friday, according to police.
LAURINBURG — A resident of the 14000 block of Haney Drive reported a riding lawnmower stolen on Friday, according to police. The total value stolen was $1,000.
Vandalism
LAURINBURG —A Laurinburg woman reported her car was egged in the parking lot of the UPS store in Holly Square Shopping Center on Saturday. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local/6851/crime-report-34 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/cb8e92a8057d9cb72129e03f0117835f60745ba0c57b41d648e0f934aa9efc85.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T10:50:57 | null | 2016-08-31T06:09:50 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news-1%2F6867%2Fstudy-to-assess-school-facility-needs.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_McInnisPRINT-1.jpg | en | null | Study to assess school facility needs | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | RALEIGH — State lawmakers are spending $1 million to hire a firm to study school construction needs in Scotland and the 99 other North Carolina counties to obtain a clearer picture of which counties face the greatest challenges.
As students across the state headed back to school this week, they will return to schools that range from brand new to decrepit.
Scotland County educators are currently working with county leaders on the second phase of a school consolidation effort that is expected to cost a total of $41 million.
While the state pays most of the personnel costs for teachers and school employees, counties are responsible for building and maintaining schools. Scotland’s school consolidation plan is based on a capacity study performed in 2014 that showed that the county’s middle schools and several elementary schools were underpopulated. But some county leaders have concerns with how the consolidation project will be paid for.
Sen. Tom McInnis, whose district includes Scotland, hinted it may be time for the state to help level the playing field.
According to McInnis, Scotland suffers from having one of the state’s highest poverty rates and often the highest jobless rate. The county also has property tax rate of $1.02 per $100 valuation – also one of the state’s highest.
“They can’t charge any more taxes. They’re past their limit for taxes,” said McInnis, a Republican from Rockingham. “Yet, they have schools that are built in the ’40s and ’50s and ’60s that need replacing.
“They have needs for a new school, but how to pay for it is certainly not going to be raising taxes.”
Previous studies on the issue have recommended extra state funding for low-wealth counties, but McInnis said that amounts to more than 70 counties.
“We need to get it down to what real need is, and that’s the bottom 20 or 30 or 40 that are historically rural, with high tax rates, with no opportunity for growth, with decreasing population,” he said.
House Budget Chairman Nelson Dollar said the study will examine all of those factors and come up with a long-term plan that could include more targeted assistance.
“It varies greatly whether you’re talking about urban or rural or suburban or bedroom communities,” Dollar said. “So, it’s very much a challenge to determine what those needs are.”
The legislature’s Program Evaluation Division is getting bids from engineering firms to conduct the study. Although lawmakers expect it to cost more than the $1 million they have budgeted for it, they said it will be worth the cost if it helps the state spend money more effectively.
Rep. Garland Pierce, a Democrat from Scotland County, said he supports the study, but feels that paying $1 million or more is not good use of public money.
“I’m amazed that they are spending that much money,” he said “… Counties can best assess their school construction needs. Why should we pay such a large amount to a company that is just going to go and collect from the school system information that is already known?”
McInnis http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_McInnisPRINT-1.jpg McInnis | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6867/study-to-assess-school-facility-needs | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/2c3eeac268350fca0836665a612b2bcdcb76f5726c4eaabbe5d3c229ef81ccb8.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T18:50:17 | null | 2016-08-29T14:34:12 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6832%2Fknights-start-season-with-back-to-back-wins.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_St.-Andrews-Knights-2.jpg | en | null | Knights start season with back-to-back wins | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | SAVANNAH, Ga. — The St. Andrews University men’s soccer team began their 2016 season in style edging Savannah College of Arts and Design (SCAD)-Savannah 2-1 on the road Friday.
The Knights were led by first half goals from junior Manu Escalera and sophomore Guilherme Soares along with five clutch saves from freshman keeper Valentino Parini as the Knights stunned the home team.
The Bees (0-3) outshot the Knights 18-10, but only put six on net as St. Andrew’s defense held off the Bees in a scoreless second half as an offside call negated a tying goal from the Bees in the 68th minute.
St. Andrews struck first as Escalera scored in the seventh minute off an assist from junior Paul Tabe; however, Savannah College of Arts and Design-Savannah came right back with the tying goal just six minutes later on a lob shot from Alejandro Gil.
The Knights would not be done, though, as they scored the go-ahead and eventual game-winning goal in the 19th-minute as sophomore Andrew Newman crossed the ball from 30 yards out to fellow sophomore Soares for the goal.
Knights’ sophomore Manu Posada also led the way with four shots attempted.
St. Andrews 4, Webber 3
St. Andrews University continued their hot play by using their offense to outscore sister school and rival Webber International out of Florida 4-3 on Saturday in game two of the SCAD Invitational.
The Knights used a three-goal barrage early in the second half to take control and then held on for the one-goal win.
Junior Manu Escalera led the way as he scored the third goal of the game and his second of the weekend while sophomores Andrew Newman, Julio Rico and Gabriel Fernandes scored the others.
Webber took the early lead at 1-0 after four minutes before the Knights came right back with Rico’s goal in the eighth minute.
The game remained tied at halftime before St. Andrews began their offensive onslaught of three goals within a ten minute span of the second half. Rico assisted on Newman’s goal to give the Knights the 2-1 lead at the 52-minute mark before Escalera scored nine minutes later off his own rebound to make it 3-1. Fernandes then added the game-winning goal for the Knights in the 63rd minute off a rebound of Giovanni Sanchez’s shot.
Webber (0-1-1) would then add two late goals in the final ten minutes to make it closer but the Knights held on for the win led by five saves on eight shots from GK Valentino Parini. St. Andrews outshot the Warriors 17-16 overall led by five shots from Escalera.
St. Andrews (2-0) will next head to Kentucky for the Mid-South Challenge this weekend. They will face No. 23 Lindsey Wilson on Saturday evening and Bethel University from Tennessee the following day.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_St.-Andrews-Knights-2.jpg | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6832/knights-start-season-with-back-to-back-wins | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/92315a4fc5265267b5c6b5ef2d9185d8db0c86c1a72e3cdeb8881fe93adf13fe.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:39 | null | 2016-08-25T17:08:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6793%2Fspecial-teams-player-of-the-week.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_DSC_0834.jpg | en | null | Special teams Player of the Week | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Zamir White is a 6-foot 1-inch junior at Scotland High School. He is also one of the starting running backs, wearing No. 34, for the Fighting Scots this season and has been named this week’s Special Teams Player of the Week.
Each Friday, the Exchange will feature one offensive, one defensive and one special teams player from the Fighting Scots, chosen by the coaches, to be the Players of the Week.
Fighting through an an injury, Zamir had the longest run of the game during Scotland’s season opener against South View on a kick off return to start the third quarter.
“Despite a deep thigh bruise Zamir gutted it out and had an 89-yard return for a touchdown,” said head coach Richard Bailey.
Zamir led the Fighting Scots in rushing against South View with 15 carries for 94 yards and two touchdowns to go along with his 89-yard kick return.
The 210-pound junior hopes he can continue his football career when he graduates but is still undecided on where he wants to attend college. Zamir also isn’t sure what he plans to major in, but one day would like to become a police officer.
Something people might not know about Zamir is that he likes hamburgers.
When asked what he is most looking forward to in the 2016 season he said he wants a 4A State Championship ring on his finger.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3171.
Zamir White http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_DSC_0834.jpg Zamir White | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6793/special-teams-player-of-the-week | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/86f6766e907cee3ece36015ef496e1da08328bcaf50914a9a357045fcbad8e95.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T00:50:30 | null | 2016-08-29T19:00:25 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6841%2Fscots-football-a-look-at-the-numbers.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_148.jpg | en | null | Scots football: A look at the numbers | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Fighting Scots were far from playoff ready in their first two games, but the team has still put up some impressive numbers in weeks one and two.
The Scots offense, which was lack luster in their home opener against Independence on Friday, scored 33 unanswered points to remain undefeated heading into their game against Marlboro County. The South Carolina team is 1-1 and considered by many as the first real test the Scots will face this season.
If the Scots defense keeps playing the way they have, the number in the wins column will continue to rise and the loses will stay at zero.
Here’s a closer look at the numbers behind the Fighting Scots season thus far:
— DEFENSIVELY —
Points allowed: 7
The Fighting Scots have been playing lights out defense, allowing only one touchdown in its first eight quarters. South View’s only touchdown came as a result of a trick play on fourth down in the third quarter.
Yards allowed: 299
South View only gained 178 yards on the Scots defense — 115 in the air and 63 on the ground. The Scots allowed Independence to gain only 121 yards — 87 in receiving and 34 in rushing. Three of the Patriots rushers and two of the Tigers rushers ended with negative yardage.
Interceptions: 3
The Scots defense forced three interceptions from Independence quarterback Wes Cook. Alston Smith, Amir McNeill and Kalish McNair all came away with one interception each on Friday. McNeill and McNair both has 41-yard returns following their interceptions.
Fumble recovery: 1
Scots linebacker Chris Williams came up with the teams only fumble recovery of the season in the second quarter of Friday’s game.
— OFFENSIVELY —
Total yards: 657
Against South View, the Scots had 336 total yards with 294 coming on the ground and 42 in the air. The stats were similar against Independence with 239 rushing yards and 82 receiving yards.
• Rushing: 533
Leaders: 1) Syheam “Smiley” McQueen — 24 carries for 193 yards and four touchdowns
2) Zamir White — 15 carries for 94 yards and two touchdowns
3) Khalil Smith — 17 carries for 92 yards
It’s no surprise that the majority of the Scots total yards have come from the run game, what is surprising is who the leading rusher is — Syheam “Smiley” McQueen. With a deep thigh bruise sidelining him on Friday night, Zamir White has been eclipsed by McQueen as the Scots main ball carrier.
• Receiving: 124
Leaders: 1) Barry Campbell — 4 catches for 67 yards and two touchdowns
2) Donta Green — one catch for 32 yards
3) Alston Smith — one catch for 15 yards
Coach Bailey said in the preseason that Campbell, a senior, would surprise some people — and he has. The 6-foot 2-inch Scots wide receiver has become the favorite target of quarterback Sergio Gibson.
• Passing: 124
Quarterback: Sergio Gibson — 8 of 17 for 124 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions
In his first two starts, Gibson has managed the game well under center with a completion rate right around 50 percent. His passer rating has been over 100 in both games and he is averaging around 15 yards per pass.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170.
Scotland defensive back Manny Smith and linebacker Javon Ratliffe converge on Independence running back Deiontae Brown during Friday’s home opener. The Fighting Scots defense held Independence to just 34 rushing yards. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_174.jpg Scotland defensive back Manny Smith and linebacker Javon Ratliffe converge on Independence running back Deiontae Brown during Friday’s home opener. The Fighting Scots defense held Independence to just 34 rushing yards. Scotland quarterback Sergio Gibson and running back Syheam McQueen celebrate in the end zone following Gibson’s 62-yard touchdown run during the first quarter of Friday’s game. McQueen currently leads the Scots in rushing touchdowns with four. Gibson has one rushing touchdown and has thrown two touchdown passes so far this season. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_148.jpg Scotland quarterback Sergio Gibson and running back Syheam McQueen celebrate in the end zone following Gibson’s 62-yard touchdown run during the first quarter of Friday’s game. McQueen currently leads the Scots in rushing touchdowns with four. Gibson has one rushing touchdown and has thrown two touchdown passes so far this season.
Over 650 total yards in two games | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6841/scots-football-a-look-at-the-numbers | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/985055567f27dd8f34b5f6233cbabc1b383c6d95e38dbd93785a263c7c3a7dfa.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T14:50:38 | null | 2016-08-30T10:13:39 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news-1%2F6850%2Fncacc-recognizes-scotland-commissioner.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6850/ncacc-recognizes-scotland-commissioner | en | null | NCACC recognizes Scotland commissioner | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | RALEIGH — Scotland County Commissioner Bob Davis was recently recognized by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners for meeting the requirements for the Master level in the Local Elected Leaders Academy.
A Master has completed a minimum of 66 credits (18 orientation credits; 30 focused in-depth credits; and 18 elective credits of continuing education since becoming a county commissioner.
The Local Elected Leaders Academy, a partnership with the UNC School of Government, the N.C. Association of County Commissioners and the N.C. League of Municipalities, offers local elected officials the knowledge and skills needed to lead and govern their communities.
As commissioners increase education and service, they earn credits toward recognition at three levels: Practitioner, Master and Mentor. The NCACC tracks credits and recognizes participation every year at the Annual Conference.
“The Academy is designed to help our commissioners by improving their knowledge of the issues and their leadership skills,” said NCACC Executive Director Kevin Leonard. “A commissioner who achieves recognition through LELA has shown a true commitment to their personal development and to their constituents back home.”
The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners serves officials in 100 counties on issues being considered by the General Assembly, Congress and federal and state agencies. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6850/ncacc-recognizes-scotland-commissioner | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/d1c24993c63a19861fb6a36ca6eeb5cc16861075e1d86856d210fe457b4bc043.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:56:12 | null | 2015-04-27T23:02:47 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Funcategorized%2F1%2Fhello-world.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/uncategorized/1/hello-world | en | null | Laurinburg Exchange | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging! | http://laurinburgexchange.com/uncategorized/1/hello-world | en | 2015-04-27T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/ca60c32f28fcbb2ffc0b36d31fa648f3cbb93b2de232cc734d50c9a60e732aae.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T00:49:51 | null | 2016-08-28T19:14:11 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6821%2Fscotland-county-habitats-store-adds-3000-books.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_109.jpg | en | null | Scotland County Habitat’s store adds 3,000 books | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG —Attention book lovers: your chance of running into Ernest Hemingway or Stephenie Meyer just got greater as Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore expanded its selection of books.
The store, which supports the mission of Habitat through donations of household goods, furniture and other items, except clothing, has spent the past five weeks reorganizing its book section to add 3,000 more titles.
The updated book section reopens on Tuesday.
“We had a large selection of books we needed to put out for sale and thought we could redo the section for the start of the school year,” said Chris Carpenter, executive director of the Scotland County Habitat for Humanity. “Our goal with this revamp was to prepare a large variety of books to be ready for the new year. There is something about returning to school that raises students interest level in reading.”
The store that started three years after the local affiliate in 1992, has helped build nearly 50 Habitat homes.
Carpenter said the book section expansion was the brainchild of several former educators who work as volunteers at the store.
“We were blessed to have retired school teachers and administrators as volunteers to make this happen,” he said.
Carpenter said most of the books are donated to the store and sell for between .50 cents and $2.
“Unless it’s something that warrants a little more,” he said. “While we do make money off of the books for our mission, it is not a large amount and we feel making this great selection of books available to the community for such a low price is doing a good service.”
ReStore sells between 500 and 1,000 books a month.
“Our hope is that students will come in or their parents will bring them in to purchase one of these extremely low cost books while their interest in reading is high,” Carpenter said. “There is such a wide variety in selection for students and adult readers. I really hope this will encourage people to read.”
Rodney Hassler, who serves on the Habitat board, agreed.
“I am so pleased we have received such good books,” Hassler said. “We can now recycle them back into the community.”
Run by full-time and part-time employees and a host of volunteers, the store is also full of donated sinks and bathroom fixtures, couches, kitchen utensils and medical supplies.
To date, Habitat for Humanity of Scotland County has built 47 homes. Since 1976, the national organization has built or repaired more than 1 million homes, serving more than 5 million people worldwide.
Habitat for Humanity is a Christian ministry that works to build affordable houses for families in need. In the fall of 1991, a group of Scotland County residents met at the Presbyterian Hut on Church Street to explore the possibility of forming a local Habitat organization.
In the spring of 1992, Habitat for Humanity of Scotland County received its franchise from Habitat for Humanity International and proceeded to build its first house.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore is located at 12340 McColl Road, Laurinburg.
Employees and volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity Restore have been working for the past five weeks to fill the new books section with over 3,000 donated books. The books range from educational and self-help to young reader and adult fiction. The new book section will be open to the public starting on Tuesday, Aug. 30. The books will cost between $.50 and $2 — unless the book warrants a higher price. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_109.jpg Employees and volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity Restore have been working for the past five weeks to fill the new books section with over 3,000 donated books. The books range from educational and self-help to young reader and adult fiction. The new book section will be open to the public starting on Tuesday, Aug. 30. The books will cost between $.50 and $2 — unless the book warrants a higher price.
By Scott Witten [email protected]
Reach Scott Witten at 910-506-3023
Reach Scott Witten at 910-506-3023 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6821/scotland-county-habitats-store-adds-3000-books | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/8712c88d9b38e2eb2f59601d66ed04e6e853ded5d5ab24e0a685e7893b12aaa4.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:19 | null | 2016-08-24T18:37:39 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fopinion%2F6784%2Fmy-little-sister-got-married.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_DSC_0704.jpg | en | null | My little sister got married | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — While most people were still fast asleep on Saturday morning Justin and I jumped in the car — after just five hours of sleep — and made our way to Ohio for my little sister’s wedding.
It took us a little over seven hours to get there since we had to stop for gas, a bathroom break and Chipotle. We were going to stop for Chick-fil-A and then I saw the Chipotle and made a sharp turn into the parking lot. The south could use way more of them.
When we finally pulled into my parent’s driveway I saw all the decorations set up in the yard and instantly I was excited. My sister didn’t want to have a big wedding with all the fixings, she just wanted something small with close friends and family.
So she and mom decorated the backyard, garage and car port — with help from my dad and brother-in-law.
By the time we arrived my sister already had her hair done and was just about ready for me to do her make-up — that’s right not only was I the Maid of Honor, I was also the make-up artist, photographer and flower girl wrangler.
Once I got my sister all dolled up and in her wedding dress, I threw my dress on and then talked my three year old niece Addi into her flower girls dress. Then I helped Aaron, my sister’s soon-to-be husband, get his suspenders and bow tie on.
Just like that it was time to get my little sister married.
My mom walked out first, followed by me carrying Addi, Aaron’s best man Chris then my dad and my sister.
I normally don’t get emotional at weddings, but as Aaron was saying his vows he started to get choked up and his eyes started to water — that got me. I had to wipe the tears away and pull myself together.
While Sam and Aaron were exchanging rings Addi walked up between them and asked, “Are we married yet?” which earned her an “aww” and a chuckle from everyone in attendance.
It was just another minute or so before Jane, the pastor and my mom’s best friend, told everyone she was pleased to introduce for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Dean Armes.
It was surreal to look over at my younger sister and realize she wasn’t a Hatten anymore — she’s an Armes.
Other than my mom and my Momma, my dad’s mom, I’m the only Hatten girl left. A fact everyone was quick to point out at the reception.
The questions came flying from every direction about when Justin and I are going to get married. For the record, I have no idea — I’m not supposed to know.
Even though I hate surprises, because I’m not very good at controlling my facial expressions if I don’t like something, this is one surprise I don’t want spoiled. So I’m just going to need everyone to sit down and be patient with me. Besides it’s not like he was going to ask during my sister’s wedding reception — it’s rude to steal someone else’s thunder like that.
Back to my sister and new brother-in-law, I am so happy for them. I have never seen my sister happier than she is with Aaron and she is and will always be a wonderful step-mom to Addi.
I hope when I get married that I’m just as excited as Sam was on her big day — Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Armes.
Amber Hatten can be reached at 910-506-3170. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/opinion/6784/my-little-sister-got-married | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/d1032184c4afdcbd4c9b180c8b68674a7111ebc4eb08d0f1eb014f9e0d6071ca.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-31T10:51:05 | null | 2016-08-31T06:01:55 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F6861%2Fletter-laurinburg-playing-tricks.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/opinion/letters/6861/letter-laurinburg-playing-tricks | en | null | Letter: Laurinburg playing tricks | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | To the editor:
The city council, and probably the chamber of commerce, would rather die than admit they were performing one of the dirtiest tricks on the taxpayers of Laurinburg in the history of Scotland County.
Believe me, if this thing goes through, the tax payers will be taxed and “fee’ed” to death to pay for their palace. They want the entire city to borrow $11.1 million. Who is going to pay it back? You are. I was told by one of the city water department employees that about $6 million was needed for some water or sewer project that had to be done soon.
Those of you in the county have had water rates increased to get money needed by the city. Now that is a crooked move by city council if I ever saw one. As of June, 2015, you received the county’s increase of 15 percent and this year you will receive another 15 percent increase. If you lived in or around Laurel Hill and received water, previously served by Laurel Hill Water Company or Z. V. Pate, Inc., the county manager and the county commissioners let the city of Laurinburg buy the Pate Water Company plus run water to anyone that used a water pump and lived in this area, too. At this time most people had water pumps. Why would the county commissioners and the county manager do this? If they are supposed to be looking out for the best interest of the people they represent, why did they let the people of Laurel Hill get jacked around with 5 percent more to pay than the rest of the county?
The only reason I can imagine Laurel Hill being sold out by the county management and the county commissioners is so the city can annex Laurel Hill into the city of Laurinburg. The city has no other way to go to get more tax money. Believe me, the city council and city manager want more tax money to build more superficial palaces and Lord knows anything else to impress people. The city council and county commissioners want everything that all the well managed counties have, only bigger and better. They have champagne taste when most county and city taxpayers have beer incomes. As far as I am concerned, after seeing the city council make fools of themselves over the new city palace or hall, I want nothing to do with them or the city of Laurinburg.
Mayor Block is the only person who has tried to have the city council brought to book and shown up for what they are, a bunch of power hungry people determined to push this palace through no matter what the excess burden of tax placed on the working class. Mayor Block is the only hope the working class has in the city of Laurinburg and the county. Keep up the good work.
William McLauchlin
Laurel Hill | http://laurinburgexchange.com/opinion/letters/6861/letter-laurinburg-playing-tricks | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/4591191248e68824c08957c1cb3b02e363ccf8dc6a972d3105759a15e654a3f3.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T00:49:49 | null | 2016-08-28T19:05:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6819%2Ffayetteville-man-charged-in-laurel-hill-death.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Murder_cmyk.jpg | en | null | Fayetteville man charged in Laurel Hill death | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAUREL HILL — A Fayetteville man has been charged on Friday in the May shooting death of a Laurel Hill woman.
According to the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office, James Ray Goins Jr., 28, of Embassy Court, has been arrested for the May 17 death of Kimberly Kelly.
Kelly was shot and killed during a home invasion at her Marston Road residence, according to the sheriff’s office. Reports said the 36-year-old woman was shot in the head. A second victim living at the residence was also shot, but survived, officials said.
Neighbors said the shooting occurred at about 4 a.m. on May 17 after someone barged into the home. Neighbors said they heard from family members that Kelly, a supervisor at Plastek, suffered a gunshot wound to the head.
A third person at the home, believed to be the female victim’s daughter, was able to escape.
Goins was arrested by the criminal investigation division of the sheriff’s office. Investigators did not say where Goins was picked up or what lead authorities to him. North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation assisted the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation.
Goins was charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.
He was placed in the Scotland County Detention Center on Friday with no bond.
http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Murder_cmyk.jpg
By Scott Witten [email protected]
Reach Scott Witten at 910-506-3023
Reach Scott Witten at 910-506-3023 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6819/fayetteville-man-charged-in-laurel-hill-death | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/e8f6f1f12435690f8a7df62a18bd27951e9aa695bbf00518a34843e19d0de7b9.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-30T12:50:38 | null | 2016-08-30T08:40:56 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2F6847%2Flaurinburg-scotland-resume-talks-on-disposal-expense.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/6847/laurinburg-scotland-resume-talks-on-disposal-expense | en | null | Laurinburg, Scotland resume talks on disposal expense | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — City and county officials will meet this afternoon to discuss how the two municipalities will deal with garbage disposal and its cost.
A joint meeting of the Laurinburg City Council and the Scotland County Board of Commissioners will be held at 4 p.m. at the Emergency Operations Center at 1403 West Blvd., Laurinburg.
The Laurinburg council recently voted to take its municipal solid waste to the Robeson County landfill in St. Pauls because the rate was significantly lower.
But the loss of the city’s business may make it more difficult for the county to negotiate a good rate with waste disposal companies when its contract expires with Uwharrie Environmental at the end of June, 2017.
“Obviously the more volume that you have when you are negotiating, the better price that will be,” County Manager Kevin Patterson told the commission at its Aug. 1 meeting. “That price would benefit the county and the city of Laurinburg as well.”
In July, the Laurinburg City Council approved a memorandum of understanding with Robeson County to take its municipal solid waste — residential and business garbage — to Robeson County’s landfill in St. Pauls rather than being serviced by Scotland County’s transfer station. To end its agreement with Robeson County, the city must provide a 60-day notice.
The city was paying Scotland County $55.75 per ton to handle its municipal solid waste but negotiated with Robeson County a price of $36.50 per ton.
“We want to make sure we work together to negotiate with the city of Laurinburg,” Patterson said on Monday.
Because the majority of the municipal solid waste Scotland County has been taking to its transfer station is from Laurinburg, it will be more difficult to get a good deal with waste disposal companies, he said.
As the end of the contract between the county and Uwharrie nears, the county will ask for bids from waste disposal companies, he said.
Charles Nichols, city manager for Laurinburg, said the city council has indicated that it would consider partnering with the county again.
“They said if the county can match the rate we’re getting from Robeson County, they’d be open to it,” Nichols said.
In explaining the change last month, Nichols said that the city would save more than $138,000 annually by taking its garbage to St. Pauls, which includes the extra costs of gas and vehicle maintenance driving its garbage trucks to the landfill.
By Terri Ferguson Smith [email protected]
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-506-3169.
Reach Terri Ferguson Smith at 910-506-3169. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/6847/laurinburg-scotland-resume-talks-on-disposal-expense | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/a90a854cade1fcb6d07160f831a8b5fb9a38fd452360e2b8b2d0edb2def4af45.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T02:49:52 | null | 2016-08-28T22:05:06 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news-1%2F6830%2Fpilot-club-of-laurinburg-donates-to-schools.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Capture2.jpg | en | null | Pilot Club of Laurinburg donates to schools | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — The Pilot Club of Laurinburg recently presented checks for students needs to four autistic classrooms at North Laurinburg School and the Carver Middle School daily living class.
North Laurinburg Teacher Catherine Pinkston said the donation of $250 per class would be used to buy gardening supplies, sensory items, craft items, academic supplies and reward/incentive needs and field trips.
Joy Lindey, teacher of the daily living class, said the donation of $200 for her class would be used to purchase items that students need for daily living. These include dental care, hygiene supplies, how to care for their clothes and every day supplies.
The Pilot Club of Laurinburg also donated $100 toward a new microwave. The microwave oven that students used to prepare and provide healthy meals — and in some cases special diets — broke last year.
Pilot Club International is a global organization of executive, business and profession leaders working together to improve the quality of life in local communities throughout the world. Their purpose is to promote an awareness of brain disorders and to improve the lives of those affected through education, voluntarism, financial support, and research. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/news/local-news-1/6830/pilot-club-of-laurinburg-donates-to-schools | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/24c5ddb89463f574fe0d26690284367b597638e5b2f7e8b8a92179586cee1e45.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T20:50:21 | null | 2016-08-29T15:17:13 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Ftop-stories%2F6834%2Flaurinburg-student-among-two-shot.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_BENTHALL-PAUL-III-07-08-98.jpg | en | null | Laurinburg student among two shot | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — A shooting that took place over the weekend left injured two people including a 12-year-old boy, according to the Laurinburg Police Department.
Authorities are now searching for a South Carolina teenager who is believed to be connected with Friday’s shootings.
Laurinburg police say Paul Benthall III, 18, of 3635 Academy Road in McColl, South Carolina, opened fire on the two victims Friday at about 11:52 p.m. on Pitt Street near South Caledonia Road in Laurinburg.
Police Chief Darwin “Duke” Williams declined to discuss a motive or what tied Benthall to the crime.
After reports of gun shots, police said they arrived at the scene to find Demontray Demore Graham, 23, of Laurinburg lying in the road suffering from a gunshot wound. Police discovered that a 12-year-old boy had also been injured by the gunfire.
Investigators did not provide the child’s name or say if he was related to Graham.
Graham and the 12-year-old were treated and released from Scotland Memorial Hospital.
Police said they plan to charge Benthall with attempted murder; assault with a deadly weapon, inflicting serious injury; and intentionally discharging a firearm within city limits once he is apprehended.
Williams urged residents with information regarding the whereabouts of Benthall to contact the Laurinburg Police Department. The police department can be reached at 910-276-3211.
Benthall http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_BENTHALL-PAUL-III-07-08-98.jpg Benthall
Police still searching for shooter
By Nolan Gilmour [email protected]
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171
Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171 | http://laurinburgexchange.com/top-stories/6834/laurinburg-student-among-two-shot | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/522be6d4bc26ada289357db13c959b7b58160838306200bb9be4f10503fa02ee.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-26T20:48:33 | null | 2016-08-26T15:52:21 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fsports%2F6803%2Fyouth-win-state-baseball-titles.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_2267.jpg | en | null | Youth win state baseball titles | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | LAURINBURG — Two Scotland County baseball players took home state championships as part of the Broadway 14U and Broadway Red 17U travel teams.
Matt Sellers helped the 14U Broadway all-star team win a junior state championship last month and Sam Poole helped the 17U Broadway Red all-star team win the Tarheel Leagues’ Major state championship.
Sellers and his 14U team competed in a four-day tournament in Boone, North Carolina at the end of July. The team started the tournament strong with a 4-3 win over the team from Wilkes County. In the second round, they cruised past Western Harnett, 10-4 before laying the smack down on Bath, 20-2 to advance to the finals.
The Broadway 14U team then had to play Wilkes County again — not once, but twice on their way to a junior state championship. Broadway lost to Wilkes County in their second meeting 10-1, which forced a game two. Broadway managed to top Wilkes County 9-8 for the championship.
The 14U Broadway All-Stars team were: Matt Sellers, Julian Barnes, Josh Thomas, Jason Barnes, Aaron Gautier, Tyler Johnson, Nathan Jolley, Mikey Remaley, Brandon Repko, Emmett Everest, Nolan Ellis and Gray Windsor. The team is coached by Steven Jolley and assistants Michael Sellers, Michael Thomas and Cole Barnes.
Assistant Coach Sellers is the head coach of the Fighting Scots JV football team.
Holt and the 17U Broadway Red team had a bit of an easier road to their Tarheel Leagues Major State Championship. The team earned a first round bye in their tournament, which was also held in Boone the same weekend in July as the 14U tournament.
In their first game, Broadway Red managed to defeat Western Harnett, 9-2 before throttling Camden in the third round, 17-0. Caldwell Co. 1 gave Holt and his team a bit more of a challenge in the championship game. Broadway Red were able to top Caldwell 4-3 to win the title.
Scotland County youth Sam Poole, left and Matt Sellers, right, each won state baseball championships with Broadway baseball, their travel team. Poole was a member of the 17U team and Sellers was a member of the 14U team. http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_IMG_2267.jpg Scotland County youth Sam Poole, left and Matt Sellers, right, each won state baseball championships with Broadway baseball, their travel team. Poole was a member of the 17U team and Sellers was a member of the 14U team. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/sports/6803/youth-win-state-baseball-titles | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/954585f3ebc0f6879b3d5e91a187a697a7b7288f4d94bc7a2e8fca2f710d23a7.json |
[
"Laurinburg Exchange"
] | 2016-08-29T00:49:53 | null | 2016-08-28T20:06:33 | null | http%3A%2F%2Flaurinburgexchange.com%2Fopinion%2F6823%2Fcanada-is-no-u-s-clone.json | http://laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Nolan-Mug.jpg | en | null | Canada is no U.S. clone | null | null | laurinburgexchange.com | WINNIPEG — Although most believe Canada and the United States are practically the same, my quick trip back to my homeland has reinforced the fact that the two neighbours are anything but similar.
When it comes to politics, sports, music, food and even beer, Canada and “The States” have many differences.
Other than “eh,” , “The States” is another exclusively Canadian saying. I’m not sure if Canadians decided to take the “United” out due to the current political mess in America, or if saying “The United States” is just too taxing.
Regardless, I am writing this column to inform you that your northern neighbour isn’t just a clone of the U.S., we are our own nation with a strong culture and national identity.
Some of you may be wondering why a Canuck like myself has settled in Laurinburg, if I am being 100 percent honest, I have wondered the same thing.
In 2012 I packed my bags and moved to Laurinburg, on what seemed at the time to be a whim to play lacrosse and study at St. Andrews Presbyterian College. Four years later, with a degree in Political Science and a Creative Writing minor in hand, I realized I wasn’t ready to bare the cold again and decided I would trade in my parka for the beautiful weather here in North Carolina.
With this summer being the first I have experienced in the Sand Hills region, I did have second thoughts of choosing to say due to the heat, but just as Manitoba winters come and go, I feel the summer here is ready to bid farewell.
When thinking of the differences in terminology between the U.S. and Canada, I realized while in Canada and speaking with friends from other parts of the world, Trump is universal for lunatic and Clinton is universal for the best worst option.
However, I am not here to bore you with politics, since we all have been force fed the election for months and being in Canada gave me a much needed break from this should-be reality T.V. show.
I figure what would be more interesting would be some comparisons of North Carolina and Manitoba, the Province I’m from and just visited.
First let’s talk about the animals. In North Carolina, the state bird is the beautiful cardinal, while in Manitoba it seems to be the mosquito, judging by the amount of bites I came back with. North Carolina is famous for it’s cute and seemingly harmless black bears, where in Manitoba, polar bears rule the northern part of the province.
Next, I do believe a look at the difference in temperature is needed. On average for low January temperatures, we experience around 36 degrees in the Sandhills, while in Winnipeg, Manitoba the temperatures reach -1 degrees on average during January. I would like to throw in that on New Year’s Eve of 2014, I recall flagging a taxi down in -50 degrees in Winnipeg.
When we compare sports, I think it goes without much thought, The States enjoy football and Canada, especially Winnipeg, lives for hockey.
When I say ‘lives for hockey,” I mean there is an outdoor hockey rink on every block, watching the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets is a religion, and if you don’t think Wayne Gretzky is the greatest athlete of all time you might get your citizenship revoked.
For me, growing up with a father who played professional hockey, I was brought up learning to ice skate and walk simultaneously. I also remember having hockey practice at 6 a.m. for the majority of my childhood, which might be why I eventually gave hockey up to play lacrosse.
Comparing the political systems, the U.S. has the gridlock system and Canada along with most every other democracy in the world has the parliamentary system; otherwise known as the “one that works.”
On a lighter subject, music, both the Sand Hills and Winnipeg have been home to great musicians.
Neil Young, who has become one of the most iconic musicians of all time, was raised in Winnipeg.
Canada may be 10 percent to size of the U.S., but in the words of my grandfather, “we might be getting a population boost come November from American immigrants.”
I may be a tad biased, but I will say the hospitality, weather, food and politeness in Scotland County makes me miss Canada a bit less. | http://laurinburgexchange.com/opinion/6823/canada-is-no-u-s-clone | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | laurinburgexchange.com/fe8a1bf51e7372c882d42d1b1aeed269e47b045ece5e274dbe9f938f94aacc33.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:08:45 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariofrontera.com%2Fsuper-bowl-highlights%2F.json | http://www.diariofrontera.com/wp-content/themes/atahualpa/images/favicon/16-favicon.ico | en | null | Super Bowl Highlights | null | null | www.diariofrontera.com | null | http://www.diariofrontera.com/super-bowl-highlights/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariofrontera.com/8074510e278bf8257bfebdcce7838d2696aea8e0a73cb7f7ca3ba8ddad57cd09.json |
[
"Jade Aliprandi"
] | 2016-08-26T12:51:17 | null | 2016-08-25T04:51:17 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Ffire-tears-through-south-penrith-home%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sthpen2.jpg | en | null | Fire tears through South Penrith home | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Fire crews will remain on the scene for most of the afternoon after a house in South Penrith went up in flames earlier today.
The property is believed to be home to a family of four.
While a man in his 30s, believed to be the son in the household, and a woman believed to be his girlfriend were evacuated safely, sadly the household dog didn’t make it out alive.
Emergency services were called to the Bickley Road house just after 1pm today, Thursday, August 25, after reports the ground floor of a double storey house was well alight.
The man was reportedly treated at the scene for burns to his hand.
A quick-thinking neighbour saw plumes of smoke coming from the garage, and ran up to see if anyone was inside.
“I saw a man and a woman inside the house and I went to smash one of the windows to get them out,” he told the Weekender.
“I couldn’t lift the pot plant by myself to smash it but a guy came up and helped me lift it and we smashed it together.
“There was a dog inside but it didn’t make it out.”
At least eight fire crews attended the scene, as well as three ambulances and several police officers, some who cordoned off the street at all ends.
“I called triple zero and couldn’t even finish what I was saying before I had to rush in to help,” the neighbour said.
Another neighbour told the Weekender he has seen several different types of chemicals in the garage when has walked passed the property and that the fire crews were working to make sure the water didn’t enter the drains.
Photos from the scene show the house to be almost completely gutted from the inside, with fire crews working to stabilise the property.
It’s expected police will release a statement regarding the blaze later today. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/fire-tears-through-south-penrith-home/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/f223d85ee38201827d03e58f333aa6076fc45df4fa354cfaca21083b8fcf5876.json |
[
"Troy Dodds",
"Dianne Turner"
] | 2016-08-26T12:49:08 | null | 2015-12-07T23:37:35 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2015%2F12%2Flauren-hickson%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/laurenhickson.jpg | en | null | The murder that rocked Penrith | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | This is the angelic face of Lauren Hickson, the four-year-old girl caught up in the biggest murder case in Penrith’s history.
Her beautiful smile is a reminder of the day when innocence was well and truly lost in this part of the world.
On May 17, 1989 Lauren was killed by Neville Raymond Towner at Emu Plains.
The murder rocked the wider Penrith area to its core. The details of the killing are horrific and shocking.
The May 19, 1989 edition of The Sydney Morning Herald featured the front page headline: “Lauren’s death: Family friend charged”.
“Lauren’s body was found yesterday morning in a stream just 300 metres from her home in the Nepean Caravan Park at Emu Plains,” the Herald’s story said.
“Teenage children who live in the caravan park hissed and yelled abuse yesterday afternoon as the unemployed man charged with the murder was taken back to Penrith police station after showing investigating officers the scene of the killing.”
The Herald reported that Neville Raymond Towner was a family friend who used to live in the caravan park.
It was originally thought that Lauren may had fallen into the Nepean River, given its proximity to the caravan park. But when a television news crew discovered the girl’s clothing in a tree and her pink gum boots nearby, it was obvious her life had come to a much more grim ending.
Neville Raymond Towner was originally sentenced to life imprisonment but later appealed and was granted eligibility for parole in 2009.
The State Parole Authority refused Mr Towner’s parole five times between 2009 and April 2013. He still remains behind bars today, but has been granted day release.
Steve Ticehurst was a Detective Senior Constable with the Homicide Squad, Major Crimes Squad North West Region and the lead investigator on the Lauren Hickson murder.
He spoke to the Weekender back in 2013.
“The Towner case was an absolutely horrific murder… and the family are scared if Towner is allowed out,” he said.
“It is my opinion and my opinion only that if a person takes a life, then they do not deserve to be released. Lauren has been robbed of having a life, a family, children. Why should anyone who takes that away from someone be given their freedom. But I just don’t see the system changing… how many more lives will it take?” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2015/12/lauren-hickson/ | en | 2015-12-07T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/a950a3ee3e3c74abe98a14d0053285d3e2ea0c4bd715d6e7a4d0be515ae4aac8.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-31T00:50:46 | null | 2016-08-31T00:09:40 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fmural-turns-heads-at-nepean-high%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/mural1.jpg | en | null | Mural turns heads at Nepean High | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | By plucking the colours of Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School’s surrounds, Bali-based contemporary muralist Brad Eastman, aka Beastman, has created a building-sized masterpiece.
Using a palette of blues, greens, browns and vibrant yellows, students now and into the future can marvel at the internationally renowned artist’s work on the grounds of their own school.
It took ‘Beastman’ over 60 hours to complete the mural, while hundreds of pairs of beady eyes watched him.
“The scale of it instantly draws people in, especially the kids,” he said.
“They just want to know how the hell I’m doing it, so they just stare at me for ages while they’re trying to work it out.”
He said having students watch him was a great way for them to realise the hard work and patience that goes into creating the scale and quality of his artworks.
“Not many people can witness for a long period of time a large mural being painted, usually they see a finished product, but don’t see the whole process,” he said.
‘Beastman’ used aerosol paint for the work to show students the benefits of working with the medium, and create a positive image for it within the school.
“I like doing the aerosol murals at schools because there’s a lot of stigma associated with spray paint,” he said. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/mural-turns-heads-at-nepean-high/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/104d7cda2199f462ae7ed748193ffb61c90c83a61c65c1041f4f78f0de9bb406.json |
[
"Jade Aliprandi"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:50 | null | 2016-08-23T06:14:29 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fmixing-family-and-business-is-just-fine-with-the-malings%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/donutking.jpg | en | null | Mixing family and business is just fine with the Malings | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A Penrith couple have taken over ownership of Donut King at Southlands Shopping Centre, all with their family in mind.
Kevin and Carol Maling, who have lived in the local area for over 40 years, used their family as motivation to start the next chapter of their lives by owning their own business.
While their grandson and grandaughter were already working at the store, the pair’s daughter now works there as a manager.
Mrs Maling said family will be the key to their success.
“Our business is going to be completely family owned and operated; everyone is playing their part to make the business a great success,” she said.
Mrs Maling added that she hopes the store will bring the family together, united in their desire to assist three of their grandchildren, who have special needs, to live happy and fulfilled lives with the care they require.
“One of our grandchildren has a mild form of Autism, while two of our other boys have severe Cerebral Palsy,” she said.
“It was our profound hope that opening our store would bring us closer together and help the family with the extensive ongoing needs of our grandchildren.”
Mr and Mrs Maling hope to also give back to the community through promotional work for charities and local sporting teams.
Donut King Southlands Penrith is located at Shop K1, inside Southlands Shopping Centre on Maxwell Street, South Penrith. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/mixing-family-and-business-is-just-fine-with-the-malings/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/a5b1598445bb05892537a56baa151960f496b0e21e7ff66c2d3b5fe95c47bab4.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:34 | null | 2016-08-23T19:49:45 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fgreyhound-ban-passes-parliament%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/greyhounds.jpg | en | null | Greyhound ban passes parliament | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The greyhound racing ban has jumped its last major hurdle after being passed by the Lower House of Parliament in the early hours of this morning.
The NSW Parliament passed the Greyhound Racing Prohibition Bill 2016, by 49 votes to 30.
Under the terms of the Bill, greyhound racing in NSW will close on July 1, 2017.
“The first recommendation of the Special Commission of Inquiry into Greyhound Racing in NSW was that the Parliament should consider ending greyhound racing in this state, and this has now occurred,” Premier Mike Baird said.
“I am pleased the Parliament has strongly supported the Government’s decision, because it is the right one, even though it has been a difficult one.
“The Bill is the direct consequence of the Special Commission, which found compelling evidence of systemic animal cruelty in greyhound racing and concluded there was a culture of cover-up that gave no comfort to those who hoped it could be reformed.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Racing Troy Grant said his strong focus is on getting the necessary support, including financial support, for those affected in communities, especially in regional NSW.
“The Greyhounds Transition Taskforce Coordinator General, Dr John Keniry, is travelling across the state to consult with industry members and find out what financial and other support they need to transition themselves and their dogs out of the industry,’’ Mr Grant said.
“We’re committed to leaving no-one behind in the transition to an orderly and humane industry closure and we’ll announce this package, which will include financial assistance, in coming months.
“Despite the Opposition Leader’s two-hour speech against the Bill in Parliament tonight, not once did he reaffirm his commitment to reintroduce the industry if Labor is elected, proving his promises to industry are opportunistic and empty.” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/greyhound-ban-passes-parliament/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/08d441dced8e48903f603cceeee1a97f92d34dda942daa0fd5afa2939de8b3c7.json |
[
"Jade Aliprandi"
] | 2016-08-31T02:50:43 | null | 2016-08-31T00:51:56 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fduo-robbed-and-attacked-in-jamisontown%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/policenewsb.jpg | en | null | Duo robbed and attacked in Jamisontown | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Two men were allegedly robbed on Saturday night in a scary incident in Jamisontown.
At about 3.20am on Saturday, August 27, the two men, aged 22 and 19, were walking along Mulgoa Road near Preston Street.
The duo entered Preston Street when they were approached by a group of seven men.
The group allegedly grabbed the 22-year-old and repeatedly assaulted him before he fell to the ground.
They demanded he hand over his phone to which he complied.
They then turned to the 19-year-old and demanded his phone, which they were given, before they fled the scene, running out onto Mulgoa Road.
Police were called when the victims made their way to a nearby residence for help.
Penrith detectives are investigating the incident and are asking for any witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The seven men are described as being in their 20’s, and of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/duo-robbed-and-attacked-in-jamisontown/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/4e84403fa21aea8bc567608fd345862f7a5837c22bbe8d765e5739e4aa7224ff.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:51 | null | 2016-08-17T09:05:56 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fbattle-of-the-big-cats-2%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/pantherssharks2.jpg | en | null | Battle of the big cats | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Round 23 really couldn’t have played out much better for the Penrith Panthers.
The Tigers losing to the Titans, the Rabbitohs upsetting the Warriors and the Panthers themselves demolishing Newcastle is exactly what the doctor ordered.
It sets the Panthers up to play finals football and in the process lines up a blockbuster Friday Night Football clash against the Wests Tigers at Pepper Stadium.
Penrith can all but confirm their spot in the finals if they beat the Tigers while Jason Taylor’s men will find it very difficult to play in the post-season if they don’t get the two competition points at Pepper Stadium. It sets up a battle that should go down to the wire and is likely to feature plenty of points.
Tigers fans and neutral viewers will be disappointed to hear that James Tedesco’s broken jaw will keep him out of this game, as well as the rest of the season, but Panthers fans are most likely thanking the rugby league Gods for a little bit of luck going their way.
Penrith welcomed back Reagan Campbell-Gillard from injury last weekend and he’ll be much better for the run – it’s important he is fit coming into the final few games of the season especially considering his front row partner Sam McKendry won’t be back this year.
The scoreboard looked pretty for the Panthers against Newcastle last week but despite the 42-6 win, the performance still had plenty of holes in it.
Penrith gave away too many penalties in what was an ill-disciplined first 40 minutes and were lucky not to be behind at half-time. After the break, Matt Moylan put the Panthers in front with a superb try but then the team spilled the ball in each of the next four sets – again, they were lucky the Knights didn’t take advantage of it and get themselves back into the game.
When things clicked, however, the Panthers ignited – tries in the 55th, 59th, 65th, 70th and 80th minutes to put more salt into the Knights’ 2016 wounds.
So often this season the Panthers have produced a dynamite 20 minutes that has been enough to secure them victory, and left fans wondering why they can’t do the same for the entire 80. Certainly it will be an issue in September but for now, the Panthers are just happy they’re winning.
There is a confidence about this Penrith team they probably don’t deserve to have, but that’s youth for you.
In the stands, we take this footy caper pretty seriously.
But for the likes of Bryce Cartwright, Nathan Cleary, Leilani Latu and co, they’re just having fun.
Don’t get me wrong – they know there’s a serious side to the 80 minutes of football each week, but as a young group that is slowly being thrust into the spotlight, they’re handling things in the only way they know how.
With Luke Brooks likely to return, the Tigers certainly won’t put the white flag up like the Knights did last weekend, even with Tedesco out.
If the Panthers are a little more patient, a lot more disciplined and hold the ball, they should walk away from this one with finals footy in their back pocket.
Tip: Panthers by 8. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/battle-of-the-big-cats-2/ | en | 2016-08-17T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/2aa374425a3ef060a19a11a5329b682c1d2d44098c05532bc61b4dbbbde55327.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:27 | null | 2016-08-23T03:22:44 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fpenrith-show-returns-this-weekend%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/show.jpg | en | null | Penrith Show returns this weekend | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Thousands are expected to attend the annual Penrith Show this weekend.
To be held at the Penrith Showground on August 27 and 28, this year’s show is highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display and a concert from country music superstar, Amber Lawrence.
Penrith Show President, Max Laughton, said if last year’s fireworks spectacular was anything to by, this year will be particularly special.
“It was as bright as daylight. It was an absolutely incredible sight to behold,” he said.
The show is possible thanks to a range of sponsors including Arnall Trophies, Dunn & Farrugia, 2nds World, Spur, Nepean Village, The Good Guys, Fully Flavoured restaurant and The Western Weekender.
As well as the Amber Lawrence concert and the fireworks spectacular, the show will feature a range of other activities across the two days including vintage harness racing, a ute muster, wildchild racing, woodchopping and much more.
For more information, see www.penrithshow.com. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/penrith-show-returns-this-weekend/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/479a7244948a72ff681292014643f5091b58a9b18f0aae5317b2443a91298544.json |
[
"Alena Higgins"
] | 2016-08-31T00:50:48 | null | 2016-08-31T00:31:43 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fprotective-father-assaulted-daughters-partner%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Court.jpg | en | null | Protective father assaulted daughter’s partner | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A protective father who assaulted his daughter’s partner thinking she was in danger has been slapped with two good behaviour bonds.
Craig Paul Lodding fronted Penrith Local Court last Friday charged with ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’ and ‘enter a building with intent to commit an indictable offence’.
The court heard after trying and failing to contact his daughter, he became worried and “barged into the house”, grabbing his son-in-law.
Magistrate Carl Milovanovich said he could understood his concern but that he took the wrong approach.
“Unfortunately you allowed your judgement to falter on this occasion,” he said, acknowledging the accused was an otherwise hardworking and decent member of the community.
He was ordered to enter into multiple two-year good behaviour bonds. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/protective-father-assaulted-daughters-partner/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/f9914f5b8c6abcf2a7fece83d0caf445b2351f2c59147ccef585553749f1cad0.json |
[
"Jade Aliprandi"
] | 2016-08-31T00:50:40 | null | 2016-08-31T00:14:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fkierans-looking-for-laughs%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/kieran.jpg | en | null | Kieran’s looking for laughs | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Werrington Downs resident and comedian, Kieran Daughton, will be taking to the stage in this year’s Sydney Fringe Comedy program.
Having been a comedian for three years, Daughton had his first experience in the program two years ago and loved it.
“It was such a fun experience especially because I had more stage time than I normally get,” he told the Weekender.
Daughton’s show ‘Daughton Hears a Who’ will centre around everyday life, something the audience can relate to.
“I try to link all my jokes together so it ends up being one long story which is really cool,” he said.
“I put a strange twist on everyday topics like public transport and shopping.”
While his regular job is in the landscaping business, Daughton said he loves making people laugh.
“During my set in the Sydney Fringe Comedy program, I will hopefully find new fans and make new people laugh – I make people I know laugh all the time but it’s always good to make strangers laugh,” he said.
Daughton will present his show on Tuesday, September 6, Thursday, September 8, and Saturday, September 10, at The Factory Theatre in Marrickville. For more details, visit www.fringecomedy.com.au. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/kierans-looking-for-laughs/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/40a233f1ca3c8a086a7b7af2bb156c2fcde93de21011a229519548321d54dc8a.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:59 | null | 2016-08-20T07:10:34 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fstorm-brewing-over-parking-changes-at-penrith-station%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/taxi.jpg | en | null | Storm brewing over parking changes at Penrith Station | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A major social media backlash is brewing after a 15 minute parking area near Penrith Station was converted to a taxi rank.
The change was implemented yesterday (Friday, August 19).
The parking area on Jane Street has been used as a public pick-up and drop-off point for Penrith Station for decades.
On its website, Transport for NSW said: “From 8am Friday 19 August 2016 the station taxi rank will be permanently relocated to Great Western Highway (Jane Street) where the current 15 minute parking bay is located.”
No alternative parking bays or drop-off points were mentioned or announced.
Local residents are venting their frustration on various social media pages, given the popularity of the parking and pick-up area.
On the Weekender Facebook page, one resident said she was fined $208 for parking in the area, suggesting police are already handing out fines despite the change being so significant given how long the parking area had been in existence.
Penrith Station’s parking facilities are already under extreme pressure with spaces on the southern side of the station all but gone by 7am on weekdays.
The parking changes have been made as work continues on a major upgrade of the station.
Transport for NSW is building a new commuter car park at Penrith Station to provide around 350 additional commuter spaces.
Read more about this story in Friday’s print edition of the Western Weekender | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/storm-brewing-over-parking-changes-at-penrith-station/ | en | 2016-08-20T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/a73d1cf862d70a20f098f9b45ecce77c94db8b8f89443f6c12f9fc126a2b7391.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater",
"Krystyna Pilarowski",
"Alan Nixon"
] | 2016-08-26T12:47:43 | null | 2016-08-17T05:34:53 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Flosing-their-religion-local-researcher-looks-into-rise-in-atheism%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/DSC027061.jpg | en | null | Losing their religion: Local researcher looks into rise in atheism | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A researcher at Western Sydney University (WSU) Werrington is looking into why people choose to dump their religion, and become active atheists.
In the 100 years leading up to the 2011 Census, the number of people in Australia with no religion increased from one in 250 people to one in five, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
PhD student and researcher Rhys Gower from the Religion and Society Research Cluster at WSU, believes that number will continue to rise, and wants to know why.
“This study will investigate the factors that compel an individual to not only reject the religious norm, but in many cases fights for non-religious perspectives to be recognised,” he said.
“Campaigns such as [the Atheist Foundation of Australia’s ‘Mark No Religion’ campaign] indicate active atheists are mobilising to ensure that religious views are not over-represented within government decision-making.”
This Census, the ABS has placed ‘no religion’ as the first option to choose, that Mr Gower said is symbolic of a shift in society.
Mr Gower has attended large atheist gatherings, and has spoken with Steve Marton, President of Sydney Atheists, a group that holds a monthly social meeting in Penrith.
“When people come to the realisation they have been defrauded all their lives, they need a sanctuary, and they look for like-minded people,” he said.
“We are interested in knowledge, that’s real rather than imaginary. We focus on morality and ethics instead of following some 2000 year old book.”
He said over 80 per cent of their members belonged to a religion at some point in their lives.
“Their enlightenment comes from two causes; one is education, when they realise the world and universe have come about the reasons that they have; the other is because they actually read their religious scripts,” he said.
“There’s an old saying that the best way to become an atheist is to read the bible.”
Founder of homelessness support group StreetMed, Chris Cleary, is Christian and said she has come across many people who said they would choose atheism in the 2016 Census.
“Quite a few people I spoke to, they said they would choose atheism,” she said.
“It came down to the fact that a lot of people are sick of religion, because of issues that surround it.”
If you would like to contribute to Mr Gower’s study, email him at r.gower@westernsydney.edu.au. Volunteers need to be over 18 years old, be fluent in English, and attend atheist events regularly.
The next local atheist social meet up is on Wednesday, September 21 at 5.30pm at the Red Cow, Penrith. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/losing-their-religion-local-researcher-looks-into-rise-in-atheism/ | en | 2016-08-17T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/947c738b6ecc0e3a101e9d7c537a2c95ac02d8346acb9e90c552a96f1c1298b5.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-26T12:47:09 | null | 2016-08-10T02:50:19 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fkangaroos-could-be-saved-from-cull%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/MG_0011crop.jpg | en | null | Kangaroos could be saved from cull | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Penrith Anglican College (PAC) is set to bow to public pressure and relocate 15 large male kangaroos instead of killing them and burying them at the school.
As revealed exclusively by the Weekender last week, National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) gave the Orchard Hills-based school a permit to cull the kangaroos and bury them on their property.
But after a community backlash, the school is now looking at other options.
Animal Liberation NSW and the Animal Justice Party launched a petition against the shooting of the kangaroos and received 2,500 signatures in less than two days.
Headmaster, Mark Lewis, received a phone call from an Animal Liberation NSW representative on Tuesday night offering to try to find a property owner willing to take on the live kangaroos.
“This, in turn, would allow the College to apply for a release permit from NPWS,” he said.
“While early days, the College is hopeful that we can revisit the option of catching and releasing the small number of problem kangaroos.”
Animal Liberation NSW Director, Hazel Stephens, said it’s great the school is willing to reconsider if a property is found.
“If the way to stop them dying is to relocate them, then find a long term solution, then that’s what we need to do. It’s not the perfect solution but it’s fantastic they are talking to us,” she said.
Ms Stephens said she understood the school was taking the preferred direction of NPWS.
A spokesperson for NPWS said the the only alternative to shooting in this circumstance was capture and relocation, which after assessment (and without a nominated property for relocation), was not a reasonable or viable option.
“In assessing the land manager’s application, NPWS considers if non-lethal methods are available to mitigate the problem and the likely impact issuing a licence would have on the sustainability of the local population,” he said.
“In the present case, NPWS is satisfied that the kangaroos present a significant risk to the children at the school. Shooting is generally the preferred humane option for removing individual animals that pose a threat to human safety.”
It is hoped a resolution will be found in the coming days.
Animal Justice Party’s Mark Pearson held concerns over the message culling kangaroos would send to Penrith Anglican College’s students.
“What kind of message is the school sending to its students that killing healthy kangaroos is an acceptable form of native animal management?” he asked.
“I am sure if we asked the students they would be open to a more humane solution.”
Since the Weekender broke the story (read it here) in our last edition, the Orchard Hills school copped a large amount backlash on social media from community members furious with the school and State Government’s decision.
“You need to know that to destroy all the larger males could potentially increase the population in the longer term as the younger teenage males will be left to mate with the females rather than one alpha male protecting the females from the all the younger males,” Nikki Sutterby wrote on Facebook.
“This will also totally destroy the mob’s social structure and cause more anxiety and stress among the mob, not to mention the fact that you are destroying their leaders and teachers in the big old boys that keep the mob safe and look after and teach the joeys.”
One Facebook user, Henry Atkin, defended the school’s decision, calling those against it extremists.
“They would put the welfare of your kangaroos above the welfare of your children. They also seem to ignore the fact that the NPWS has acknowledged the problem and issued a permit for the culling,” he wrote.
Animal groups thanked the World League for the Protection of Animals for their support, and await a resolution to be reached in this unfolding case.
Penrith Anglican College has issued a letter to parents and carers this morning, August 10. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/kangaroos-could-be-saved-from-cull/ | en | 2016-08-10T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/60f171fe12d124f3fda8d50e21a44a6d0ca29c86e750d662cd86039683e24c62.json |
[
"Kate Reid"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:41 | null | 2016-08-23T00:56:31 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fclean-comedy-in-werrington%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/hannahbloland.jpg | en | null | Clean comedy in Werrington | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | They say laughter is the best medicine, and few comedians would understand that better than Hannah Boland.
Having had her fair share of tragedies, including the loss of two full term babies, and an ongoing battle with anxiety and a chronic pain condition, Hannah aims to bring laughter into the lives of those who are dealing with their own struggles.
“When I was at my lowest I found that having a good belly laugh at something, however fleeting, reminded me of what it was like to actually laugh; a feeling I had lost for the longest time,” Hannah said.
“It didn’t solve any of my problems, but it gave me hope that one day I might be able to feel like that again. That is the hope and reminder I want to bring to others.”
Hannah performs under the banner of ‘clean comedy’. Her hilarious storytelling, poetry and songs aim to bring some humour to life’s deepest matters without swearing or being crass.
Hannah Boland will be performing her comedy show ‘The Best Medicine’ at The Henry Lawson Theatre in Werrington County on Saturday, September 17 at 8pm. Tickets are $28 for adults and $25 for concession. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.hannahboland.com.au. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/clean-comedy-in-werrington/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/fb1e810ab1841bb40269e0a9a9287b94642c45c8abaf05c96dbd22127d5e7294.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:24 | null | 2016-08-24T00:20:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Ftitanic-battle-looms%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/panthersbryce1.jpg | en | null | Titanic battle looms | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | You only have to look back to the last time Penrith played the Titans to realise how much has changed at the Panthers in such a short period of time.
The two sides last met in late May and it was a major slip-up for the Panthers, going down 28-24 at home and showing real signs of concern for the crucial months ahead.
That match in round 11 featured the ‘spine’ everyone had dreamed about in the off-season – Matt Moylan at fullback, Jamie Soward and Peter Wallace in the halves and James Segeyaro at hooker (via the bench). Peta Hiku was in the centres (until he was injured early in the second half) and Sam McKendry started the game at prop – it was close to a full-strength outfit and Penrith wasn’t expected to lose.
Looking back on the game, it was one of the defining results in the middle part of the year that started to force coach Anthony Griffin’s hand towards the future. Slowly, he started a mid-season overhaul at the club that featured the inclusion of Nathan Cleary in the side’s next match against Melbourne, and the shift of Peter Wallace to hooker.
It was a gamble bigger than anything Kenny Rogers could possibly throw out, but time has a funny way of proving people right.
Griffin is now preparing his side for the final two matches of the regular season, and will then shift his focus to an assault on the Finals, with the club now all but guaranteed their spot in the top eight.
Hindsight tells you that Griffin was going to win either way.
Had the changes not quite worked, he would have shrugged it off as another piece in the puzzle we all like to call ‘next year’. As it turns out, he looks like a genius. The Panthers are one of the most in-form sides in the top eight, having won their past three matches, and the points are finally starting to flow – a major problem for the side in the first half of the season.
The Titans, who themselves have undergone something of a transformation since that Round 11 meeting, loom as Penrith’s biggest threat leading into the final fortnight of the competition proper. This Saturday’s game offers Gold Coast the opportunity to leapfrog Penrith on the ladder and potentially set up a Queensland blockbuster in week one of the finals. It’d also most likely put Penrith into the dreaded eighth spot on the ladder, depending on how the final round plays out.
While the sides are evenly matched across the park, there’s no doubt that the Titans have a couple of individual gamebreakers that could really tear the match wide open. The obvious one is Jarryd Hayne – he’s already produced a few memorable plays since returning to the NRL a couple of weeks ago but you get the feeling he’s close to delivering a full 80 minutes of magic.
Metre-eater Konrad Hurrell is also a danger while Greg Bird’s style of play threatens to get under the skin of Penrith’s inexperienced team.
While a home ground advantage will most likely see the Titans go into the game as favourites, I can see this one going down to the final minutes.
Tip: Panthers by 1 | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/titanic-battle-looms/ | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/a10f03a11233b73a3691b197110ecb762b3ad02f562f2a2c972fc48dcae6cd6a.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-30T02:50:08 | null | 2016-08-30T01:12:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fbassett-solicited-political-donation-from-property-developer%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/bart.jpg | en | null | Bassett “solicited political donation” from property developer | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has found that former State Londonderry MP Bart Bassett “knowingly solicited a political donation from a property developer”.
However, it will not seek the advice of the DPP with respect to the possible prosecution of Mr Bassett for a criminal offence.
ICAC today released its findings in relation to its investigation into political fundraising.
The Commission’s report has found that in 2010, for the purposes of his 2011 NSW state election campaign, Mr Bassett solicited a political donation from Buildev, a property developer.
“This culminated in the drawing of a cheque, dated 13 December 2010, for $18,000 on the account of Boardwalk Resources, which was payable to the Free Enterprise Foundation,” the report says.
“The Free Enterprise Foundation subsequently sent money to the NSW Liberal Party, which included the $18,000. The $18,000 was used towards the purchase of a key seats package for Mr Bassett’s 2011 election campaign in the seat of Londonderry.
“Although the cheque for $18,000 was drawn on the account of Boardwalk Resources, the
donation was made for Buildev. Mr Bassett was aware at the time he solicited the political donation that Buildev was a property developer and knew it was not able to make a political donation and that he was not able to accept a political donation from a property developer.”
Former MPs found to have “acted with the intention of evading the election laws” relating to political donations include Andrew Cornwell, Garry Edwards, Mike Gallacher, Chris Hartcher, Tim Owen, Chris Spence and Craig Baumann.
The ICAC also made a finding of serious corrupt conduct against Joe Tripodi.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL ICAC REPORT HERE | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/bassett-solicited-political-donation-from-property-developer/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/6012bfa0f980fb6893d51dc6a6d16727f7f35273da5d3a46efb89bedbe555fb9.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-31T06:50:52 | null | 2016-08-31T05:27:50 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fcouncil-election-east-ward-provides-smallest-number-of-candidates%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/triciagreg.jpg | en | null | Council Election: East Ward provides smallest number of candidates | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | There’s still some familiar faces contesting East Ward at next week’s Council Election despite the departure of a veteran independent Councillor.
East Ward covers key western Sydney suburbs such as St Marys, that has seen a huge increase in home values since the announcement of the Western Sydney Airport.
In June, the Weekender reported that Raine and Horne St Marys recorded immediate increases between five and 10 per cent on housing, apartments and vacant land in the wake of the airport announcement.
St Marys has the Spring Festival that was cancelled this year due to setbacks in the streetscape works, but the CBD is expected to be revitalised with people, after its first high rise apartment building began construction in May this year.
East Ward also covers one of the most important features of the Penrith LGA, the Health and Education Precinct across the Western Sydney University site in Kingswood and Nepean TAFE.
For the last four years, East Ward has been represented by two Labor Councillors, Prue Car and Greg Davies, Liberal Tricia Hitchen and independents Maurice Girotto and Jackie Greenow.
In the 2016 Penrith Council Election, it has the smallest number of candidates running for one of the five spots, with just 15 candidates on three tickets – five Greens, five Labor and five Liberal.
Councillor Maurice Girotto has moved to instead run in South Ward for the Christian Democratic Party, and East Ward is also losing two of its female Councillors, including 21-year veteran Jackie Greenow.
“A question was asked of me, ‘do I still want to be doing it in four years time’, and it’s a commitment I’m not willing to make,” Cr Greenow told the Weekender.
“Now I will be able to spend more time with my three grandchildren who have never known me as anything other than a Councillor.”
Cr Greenow said she wanted to clarify that she isn’t leaving East Ward, she’s just not running in the next election.
The second is Cr Car, who won the seat of Londonderry for the Labor Party at the 2015 State Election.
Greg Davies is still running for the Labor Party though, with another former State Election candidate, Todd Carney, running second on his ticket.
Cr Davies said he believes they are both a really good chance at securing a seat on Council, and could possibly even get their third candidate, Ben Price, across the line to represent the area that has a very broad demographic.
“We do have a large proportion of older established areas, that have been around for as long as most people can remember,” Cr Davies said.
“They were around long before we had Section 94 developer contributions, so there’s still work to do to bring the amenities up to scratch.”
Caddens is fairly new, but he said in older areas like St Marys and North St Marys, there needs to be usable green space for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
With the loss of two Councillors, the Liberal Party can be excused for running both current Councillors Tricia Hitchen and Bernard Bratusa on the same ticket.
Cr Bratusa is leaving his spot in South Ward to take a shot at East Ward, where he ran unsuccessfully against Prue Car for the seat of Londonderry at the 2015 State Election.
“I met a lot of good people door knocking in Londonderry so I think there’s a lot of opportunities in that ward,” Cr Bratusa said.
“And they’ve lost a lot of experience losing [the three Councillors] so there’s a need for experienced Councillors in East Ward.”
In terms of where your vote will go, Labor is preferencing the Greens in East Ward and vice versa, leaving no preference deal to be made for the Liberal Party.
East Ward residents can vote before September 10 at St Marys Memorial Hall, on the corner of Great Western Highway and Mamre Road, St Marys, or 205 to 209 High Street, Penrith. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/council-election-east-ward-provides-smallest-number-of-candidates/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/230cbdbad37d4ad1a2152a375fd692c55bfea40dd472940bedf4e081ee3a6308.json |
[
"Nathan Taylor"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:07 | null | 2016-08-24T04:31:17 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Ffrom-easybeats-to-giant-killers%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/giants-1.jpg | en | null | From easybeats to Giant killers | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | This weekend’s final round of the AFL regular season is shaping up to be an absolute beauty with the GWS Giants in line to finish anywhere from as high as first to as low as seventh.
For the Giants, currently in fifth, to finish as minor premiers at the conclusion of the final round, they need to defeat North Melbourne this Saturday by at least 30 points and need all of the teams above them to lose.
To finish in the all-important top four, GWS need to beat North Melbourne by any margin and either Adelaide or Geelong need to lose their respective games, to secure a double chance in the finals.
If the Giants lose to the eighth-placed Kangaroos and West Coast defeat Adelaide and the Bulldogs overcome Fremantle, it would mean GWS miss out on the coveted home Elimination Final.
Fortunately, no matter what the results this weekend, one thing that’s certain is that the GWS Giants will play in their first ever AFL Finals series since entering the competition in 2012.
Last week the Giants won their 15th game of the season, with a 129-37 thrashing of the Fremantle Dockers at Spotless Stadium. The emphatic 92-point win was GWS’ largest in their short history.
A career-high six-goal effort from Jonathon Patton was the highlight of the game, according to a thrilled Giants coach Leon Cameron.
“Anyone that kicks half a dozen goals has had a pretty good day out, but it’s particularly pleasing for Jon because of the injuries he’s sustained,” he said.
“He’s been in pretty good form for most of the year. He’s improved probably one per cent most weeks, but there’s no doubt he took a big step today.”
The Giants will head into this weekend’s clash against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium with a clean bill of health after players came through last week’s match against the Dockers unscathed.
With finals footy coming up, Cameron confirmed he wouldn’t rest players for this weekend’s clash.
“We’ll be full steam ahead, so there will be no holding back from our end,” he said.
“We know any side that’s capable of winning nine in a row is a really good side.”
The third year coach said the club will have to sweat on other results to see where they finish up.
“There are so many things that can stem from this match in terms of ladder position,” Cameron said.
“But we can’t control what happens with the other teams, so we’ve got to go 100 per cent on Saturday night ourselves.” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/from-easybeats-to-giant-killers/ | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/c7b145225b55693d64d5592bb9fea8b401cb157a12c2bad491c82f5e56270958.json |
[
"Kate Reid"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:39 | null | 2016-08-24T02:43:03 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fwin-the-caravan-camping-and-holiday-expo-is-back%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/caravan.jpg | en | null | WIN! The Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo is back | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | If you love life on the road and spending time in the great outdoors then head on down to the Penrith Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo.
The expo, which will be held at Panthers Exhibition Centre from Friday, September 9 to Sunday, September 11, will give everyone from touring novices to enthusiasts the chance to check out over 150 exhibitors as well as hundreds of different brands.
There’ll be plenty to see with caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, campervans, tents, kayaks and caravan and camping accessories all on display over this huge three day event.
Tickets to the expo would make the perfect Father’s Day present.
The expo will also feature free family entertainment and vendors selling gourmet snacks, hot and cold meals, and drinks.
If you’ve been dreaming about getting into the world of caravanning and camping, now’s your chance to make that dream a reality.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.caravan-camping.com.au.
The Weekender has five family passes to the Penrith Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo to give away. For your chance to win one, email the code word ‘CARAVAN’ to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with your name and contact details.
Entries close Wednesday, August 31. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/16/00054. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/win-the-caravan-camping-and-holiday-expo-is-back/ | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/c58bc409450aa0f0216ce8b337506e665a3e3f9f0bbeb7f92dd0ce7a908d9c40.json |
[
"Michelle Grice"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:45 | null | 2016-08-30T21:19:41 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fbeing-happy-in-business%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/business.jpg | en | null | Being happy in business | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Sometimes business owners aren’t as happy running their business as they thought they would be.
Most seem to understand that building a business will take hard work, a large volume of work and a certain amount of stress. But if you are rarely happy in relation to working in your business, perhaps it is time to ask some questions.
Some people start businesses that they think will make them a lot of money but they have no passion for the concept or work involved. If this is you, you are unlikely to succeed and you are even more unlikely to ever be happy. Even if you do succeed, you will have tied yourself to a business that you hate. Be sure to go in to business with both a great idea AND a passion for what you do.
As stated above, most of us know that successful businesses are hard work, and are not built overnight. You need patience and perseverance. But how much harder is it to exercise those traits if you are unhappy with your day-to-day work?
This is not to say that at times there will be tasks you need to learn that you don’t enjoy, or that you don’t pitch in when there are ‘boring’ jobs to complete. But if those times turn into weeks, months and years, no amount of patience and perseverance is going to result in happiness.
It is also important to think about your motivations. If you are working solely to attain material things, you will soon learn that money doesn’t buy happiness. If your goals are entirely about earning a certain figure, you will find yourself unhappy in the leaner times.
Whereas if your purpose for running your business are for other benefits, your happiness is not necessarily tied to your financial success. In any case, wealth should be an outcome of your business, not a strategy. Having “get rich quick” as your goal is not only unrealistic, it is also a sure fire way to be UNhappy in business. Align your goals to non-financial values and you are far more likely to have a successful business and the happiness you also no doubt want along the way. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/being-happy-in-business/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/0e4c21721a51a123da7a28f920f2120ec59ff1e0c4961609c6ad9be9f98096c6.json |
[
"Kate Reid"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:39 | null | 2016-08-30T22:43:04 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fsoundtrack-of-his-life%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/diesel-1.jpg | en | null | Soundtrack of his life | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Diesel’s latest release ‘Americana’ may be a covers album but it has his fingerprints all over it.
From his parents’ wedding photo that adorns the cover, to the original opening track that sets up the album as a tribute to the Lizotte family’s journey from America to Australia, ‘Americana’ features other musicians’ tracks but it’s as personal as they come.
“The whole thing is kind of a piece of folk history for me, about my family and the songs that were being played in my house growing up,” Mark Lizotte (aka Diesel) said.
“A lot of the album tracks I remember from spending time in America so they have that soundtrack quality for big chunks of my life.
“It ended up as being almost a musical biography.”
Moving to Australia in 1971 was a big risk for Mark’s parents to take, especially during a time when little was known about Australian culture.
“In their minds they didn’t have many references, apart from knowing there’s kangaroos,” Mark laughed.
“So it was very odd for my parents to just pick up and move all of us out here. There wasn’t an awful lot of that going on where we lived, I can tell you that.”
Laced with memories of his home country, the album features some of music’s biggest names with Mark putting his own unique spin on tracks including ‘Ring of Fire’ by Johnny Cash and ‘Rave On’ by Buddy Holly.
“My intention with a lot of the songs on the album was just to kind of give them a different treatment, take them almost to another part of the country,” he said.
“Like for instance with James Taylor’s ‘Fire and Rain’ I imagined giving it a Memphis sort of feel.”
But it was the iconic American anthem ‘Born to Run’ by Bruce Springsteen that was one of the toughest, and most rewarding, tracks for Mark to reinterpret.
“I’m glad I decided to step up and have a go,” he said.
“It could have been easy to walk away from it and there’s a plethora of songs that would have filled that hole.
“I just thought I’m really fond of it and why not have a go at it, just because it’s such a taboo thing I didn’t see why I shouldn’t at least try.”
Diesel will be performing tracks from ‘Americana’ at Rooty Hill RSL on Friday, September 23 at 8pm. Tickets are $40. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.rootyhillrsl.com.au or call 9677 4916. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/soundtrack-of-his-life/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/7801848f84dc936cf0aad6dca2abde752749360d9ed86e8a365c690b7e932598.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-29T08:49:38 | null | 2016-08-29T08:25:09 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fcharges-following-threats%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/policenewsb.jpg | en | null | Charges following threats | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A former Chapter Vice President of the Rebels OMCG and an associate have been charged with intimidation and firearms offences.
Earlier this month, police from the Gangs Squad’s Strike Force Raptor commenced an investigation following reports a man and a woman were threatened by two armed men.
About 7.40pm on Saturday, August 27, Strike Force Raptor officers attempted to stop a black Subaru WRX on Eighth Avenue, Llandilo.
The male passenger got out of the WRX and ran from the vehicle, but was arrested a short distance away.
The other man drove from the location and a pursuit was initiated.
Road spikes were successfully deployed on Captain Cook Drive, Willmot, and when the vehicle stopped, the driver ran from the vehicle.
Officers ran after the man, who allegedly resisted arrest. He was taken to Nepean Hospital for treatment to facial injuries.
During a subsequent search of the WRX, officers located and seized a sawn-off 410 shotgun and ammunition.
The 30-year-old passenger was taken to Mt Druitt Police Station and charged with use offensive weapon in company with intent to intimidate, two counts of possess shortened firearm without authority, possess loaded firearm in a public place, two counts of possess ammunition without holding a licence, two counts of possess firearm – subject prohibition order, two counts of possess ammunition – subject prohibition order, and two counts of influence witnesses.
He was refused bail to re-appear at Mt Druitt Local Court tomorrow.
After being released from hospital, the 30-year-old driver was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with use offensive weapon in company with intent to intimidate, two counts of possess shortened firearm without authority, possess loaded firearm in a public place, two counts of possess ammunition without holding a licence, two counts of influence witnesses, police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly, drive manner dangerous, drive while licence cancelled, and two counts of resist officer in execution of duty. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/charges-following-threats/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/ce9304f3a46b1a93134bba9f55609d0e95b2574085a4792eec0d0e1a7c89922d.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T04:50:45 | null | 2016-08-31T04:03:23 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fare-headaches-causing-ongoing-issues%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/toby.jpg | en | null | Are headaches causing ongoing issues? | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Headaches are a common presentation throughout life and one that can be considerably painful and disabling.
Headaches associated with the neck are called secondary headaches, as they result from a source other than the head, such as an injury to the neck joints, discs, muscles, tendons and ligaments.
These types of headaches are called cervicogenic (neck generating) and it means the joints and soft tissues primarily in the upper neck region are responsible for your headache presentation.
Cervicogenic headaches are usually associated with neck pain and stiffness, which can be aggravated by prolonged and repetitive neck positions and movements – particularly neck extension and rotation. Pressing on trigger points at the top of the neck near the skull may be provocative and can aid in the diagnosis of a cervicogenic headache.
An International Study Group considers restricted range of motion of the neck to be one of the major diagnostic criteria for neck related headaches. Other criteria important in the diagnostic process is whether symptoms are precipitated by:
• neck movement and/or sustained, awkward head positioning
• external pressure over the upper cervical or occipital region
• there may also be accompanying neck, shoulder or arm pain on one side
• moderate-severe, non-throbbing pain, usually starting in the neck
• headache episodes of varying duration, or fluctuating, continuous pain
Conservative management of neck related headaches is directed at the joints and soft tissues, additionally specific repetitive movements are used to help reduce pain and remodel shortened structures. Strengthening exercises should also be used, which should be directed at the deep neck flexors and the upper cervical extensors.
At One Point Sports Medicine our practitioners use evidence based methods to diagnose, treat and prevent neck pain and neck related headaches. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore range of motion and promote pain-free movement. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/are-headaches-causing-ongoing-issues/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/17ff39940ecec5dd8e8ae0c5ebb7d56f4060dfac86a95f7b570d27b1b07410bc.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-28T04:48:41 | null | 2016-08-28T04:15:51 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fcampbell-gillard-out-of-penriths-finals-campaign%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/panthersrcg.jpg | en | null | Campbell-Gillard out of Penrith’s Finals campaign | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The Panthers will go into the NRL Finals without one of their toughest forwards after Reagan Campbell-Gillard was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Campbell-Gillard suffered a back fracture in a tackle by Gold Coast’s Ryan James during last night’s match at Cbus Super Stadium.
The tackle has angered Panthers coach Anthony Griffin and the NRL’s Match Review Committee will decide later today if James will be charged.
Gillard spent the night in hospital and was waiting on clearance to fly back to Sydney today.
The Panthers enter the Finals with a significant injury toll that includes Sam McKendry, Dean Whare, Peta Hiku and now Campbell-Gillard.
The injury is likely to give either Jeremy Latimore or Moses Leota a chance to play first grade again against Manly next weekend. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/campbell-gillard-out-of-penriths-finals-campaign/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/c1e803c5eef8572a5fa8fe9d142c11cff0238b49805073f30cbddedbd3ac2017.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T12:52:19 | null | 2016-08-26T03:03:01 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fpolice-inspect-heavy-vehicles-following-crash%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/TWW_blue_Favicon_16x16.png | en | null | Police inspect heavy vehicles following crash | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | An inoperable airbag and loose driver’s seat were among the defects discovered during a heavy vehicle compliance operation today.
About 6.30am, officers from the Heavy Vehicle Taskforce attended an engineering company at St Marys and inspected five vehicles.
The operation follows a serious crash on The Northern Road at Cranebrook yesterday and ensures safety and compliance across the heavy vehicle network on our roads.
Results of the operation included three vehicles found with alleged defects, including gear box oil leaks, air bag air leaks, inoperative brake lights, a loose driver’s seat, exposed door trims, cracked clearance lights and a missing rubber surface on the clutch pedal.
Officers also inspected a dog trailer and allegedly found the air bag suspension to be inoperative and the airbags unable to inflate.
NSW Police Force’s Traffic and Highway Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, said drivers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their own vehicle.
“Those that drive, operate and load trucks and trailers need to ensure that safety is the priority, not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit of other road users,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
“Operators involved in collisions with other vehicles can expect to have their fleet inspected to ensure that their trucks are safe and their drivers are fit and able to be on our roads.
“With the road toll currently at 262, which is 38 more than this time last year, we want all road users to be accountable for their actions, whether that be for driving, riding, cycling or pedestrian behaviour.” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/police-inspect-heavy-vehicles-following-crash/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/5c2b38fb8a30f275b1b00a42675975ed5f39babf1f8e24eb86831b6bdd6a4119.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:37 | null | 2016-08-30T21:49:56 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fpanthers-set-to-soar-over-sea-eagles%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/panthersgroup.jpg | en | null | Panthers set to soar over Sea Eagles | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | It’s not often Penrith fans can feel this comfortable.
Going into Sunday night’s game against Manly at Pepper Stadium, the result matters little when it comes to the competition ladder – whatever happens, the Panthers will be facing an elimination final next weekend.
But momentum is critical at this time of year and having won their past four matches, the Panthers would want nothing more than to go into the Finals with another victory under their belt.
The side provided fans with another heart-stopper last weekend, getting home 15-14 over the Gold Coast on the back of a Matt Moylan field goal late in the game.
Penrith dominated the Titans in the first half and set up a commanding 14-0 lead but as has happened so much this season, handling and completion rates let the side down for a big chunk of the contest and allowed the Titans back into the game.
Like most of the year, however, the Panthers refused to panic and despite being away from home with a big crowd against them, managed to keep their composure and grab the two points.
Nobody could blame Manly for having one eye on Mad Monday heading into this Sunday night’s game.
It’s been a rough introduction to the club for new coach Trent Barrett, who went from the relaxation of ‘gardening leave’ at Penrith to the fire of Manly, a club going through a significant generational shift with household names like Jamie Lyon and Brett Stewart at the tail end of their careers and the next generation – highlighted by Tom and Jake Trbojevic – starting to find their feet.
The game plan for Penrith this weekend is relatively simple – hold the ball and you win the game. There’s enough points in Penrith, especially against a team like Manly, to put the flair and offloads in the back pocket and just get back to good old fashioned hard work through the middle of the park.
I’d expect a slightly different interchange rotation from coach Griffin this week, especially if the Panthers get out to a handy lead. Don’t be surprised if Matt Moylan earns a break on the sideline with Zak Hardaker to get a decent stint at fullback.
Griffin is also dealing with the loss of Reagan Campbell-Gillard for the remainder of the season, with Jeremy Latimore named to replace him this weekend.
Griffin has done a remarkable job to get Penrith this far, especially considering the mid-season overhaul he undertook, and to be able to go into the final game of the season with the Finals already secured is quite simply footy heaven. He’ll be able to test a few things before next weekend’s do-or-die game, and get a feel for what he needs to work on during the week.
It’d be disappointing for the Panthers to let this game slip, and there’s no solid reason to suggest the winning streak will come to an end this weekend. I’m expecting the Panthers to come out of the blocks hard, put Manly away and then ease off in the second half as the reality of Finals football starts to set in.
This game deserves a big home crowd, even if it’s to acknowledge the mighty effort of making the Finals this season.
Tip: Panthers by 14. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/panthers-set-to-soar-over-sea-eagles/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/ba7584bec7aa6d315eacfb6d380c8d660ca8dacb9c88b64b0aeb738026f26cb4.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-29T02:49:18 | null | 2016-08-29T01:50:28 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fgiveaway-win-vouchers-to-skinnys-penrith%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/TWW_blue_Favicon_16x16.png | en | null | GIVEAWAY: Win vouchers to Skinnys Penrith | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | New Penrith restaurant Skinny’s Grill is low on carbs and fat on flavour and is the perfect place to stop in for a meal.
A range of delicious meals are on the menu for locals to try including gluten free pasta, low-carb pizza bases, and low-carb burgers.
Take-away is also available with pasta, pizza, burgers, salads, drinks, and chips available.
For more information visit, www.skinnysgrill.com or find them on Facebook under ‘Skinnys’.
Skinny’s Grill is in the AMF Complex at suit G, 62-72 Batt Street, Penrith.
The Western Weekender has four $50 vouchers to Skinny’s Grill to give away. For your chance to win one, fill out the form below.
Entries close Thursday, September 1. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/16/00054. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/giveaway-win-vouchers-to-skinnys-penrith/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/fc9a7b527ffa82c54e2d025efd478247f5239ff8119229f03d524c9394966cb6.json |
[
"Ww News",
"Margaret Wells",
"Margaret Jones",
"Frank Jones"
] | 2016-08-26T12:50:07 | null | 2015-08-05T05:39:14 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2015%2F08%2Fhistory-tragic-day-that-rocked-penrith-to-its-core%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/speedway2.jpg | en | null | History: Tragic day that rocked Penrith to its core | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Horrific and tragic are the only words to describe a devastating crash at Penrith Speedway in the late 1930s.
On Monday, June 13, 1938, families were enjoying a relaxing day out watching cars speed around the local racetrack, with no one anticipating the eventual tragedy that would soon follow.
A grandmother and her two grandchildren would not return home that day.
Maria Jones was spectating that fateful day with her three daughters, Elizabeth, seven, Clarice, 23, and Mary Baker, 27, and Ms Baker’s two children, Walter, two, and Pamela, five months.
The family sat on the sideline to eat their lunch and watch a race that would have an unexpected and tragic conclusion.
The 10 mile (16km) championship race was for cars of various powers, with around seven racers hitting speeds of up to 70 miles per hour (over 110km per hour).
It was the final lap, and the lead car, driven by a 27-year-old male from Randwick, was trying to negotiate one of the worst bends in the track.
His car started to skid sideways, became uncontrollable and then hurtled over a ditch.
It then charged side-on to the spectators who were separated by only a wire fence on the inside of the track.
Mrs Jones, who was nursing her five-month-old granddaughter, Pamela, received full force of the impact when the car landed on top of them.
Both the baby and Mrs Jones were killed on impact.
Surrounding spectators tried to jump clear, but many had no time to escape the speeding vehicle coming toward them.
Video footage of the accident shows people being thrown on impact from the force of the car.
Mrs Jones’ second grandchild, two-year-old Walter, was also badly injured and died at the scene.
“As the car jumped into the crowd, men, women, and children seemed to be hurled into the air,” an ambulance officer said.
“One of the victims appeared to be thrown 10-feet, and the screams of the injured were hurled together with the screams of the spectators.”
The car hit a post in the fence before it could plough through the crowd any further, potentially preventing the loss of more lives.
Mrs Jones’ three daughters, including the mother of the two deceased children, suffered severe injuries, but survived the tragic accident.
In a sad twist, the father of the two deceased infants witnessed the event, and only narrowly missed being struck.
Other spectators were admitted to Penrith Hospital after collapsing from severe shock, with 10 others physically injured.
Newspaper reports from the time made special mention of a local reverend, Father Peter Gallagher, who knelt by the bodies of the deceased and prayed for them and their families.
Incredibly, it wasn’t the only accident at the Speedway that day.
Reports said there was an accident earlier that morning, where a motorcycle racer fractured his skull during a practice ride.
There were two extreme accidents in the finals race that day, with the first incident occurring in just the second of 10 laps.
A car carrying both the driver and mechanic rolled over after skidding at a bend close to the railway line at the track, throwing the driver out and breaking his leg, and then somersaulting through the fence.
The mechanic was stuck in the car, and the ambulance officer rescuing him severely burnt his own arm.
While this rescue took place, and just eight laps later, the second car skidded into spectators.
Since opening in 1924, the one mile track was referred to as the ‘The World’s Greatest Dirt Track’ by international competitors.
The speedway had been operating for 14 years before this day of unfortunate events, with another fatal accident in 1925, killing one competitor.
However, in 1941, just three years after this tragic day, it was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth Defence Department.
The speedway closed in May 1941. Today, the Thornton development sits where the Speedway once thrived.
– Dale Drinkwater | http://westernweekender.com.au/2015/08/history-tragic-day-that-rocked-penrith-to-its-core/ | en | 2015-08-05T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/53bf39e9c23d692e092d57989637906f2467176e2e1d07f0d6008df69f978304.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater",
"Paul Lewis",
"Debbie Blundell",
"Helen Weder",
"Chris Parker.",
"Andrew Campbell",
"Matt Peake"
] | 2016-08-26T12:49:36 | null | 2016-08-03T06:17:11 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2F18339%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Kangaroo.jpg | en | null | Penrith Anglican College to cull kangaroos from its land | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A mass grave has been constructed at Penrith Anglican College in Orchard Hills, to hold the bodies of kangaroos that will be culled on the property.
The school has confirmed 15 large male kangaroos on the 40 acre property will be shot in the coming weeks, and as required by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the school has constructed a large grave at the back of the property to bury them.
The school has over 1,300 students from Kindergarten to Year 12, and Headmaster Mark Lewis said the culling will help manage the kangaroo population, but most importantly keep the students safe.
“Most of these kangaroos come through from the Orchard Hills RAAF base, and live on our site. We are talking predominately the large males that grow to around 5.5 feet and are potentially aggressive,” he said.
“There are a number that are here on a regular basis, they’ve come right outside my office and right outside the classrooms.”
Mr Lewis said the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) were called in to the school to assess the situation, and saw clear evidence to warrant a culling.
“There’s an over population and NPWS have given us a permit to cull,” he said.
“We are just following the process under the guidelines of NPWS. Shooting is done by a nominated ‘culler’ by the NPWS, and is someone outside of the school.
“It’s a requirement with NPWS that we actually bury them on site. We have a 40 acre property, so there’s a section up the back.”
Penrith Anglican College were also required to notify neighbours of the culling, that will be done over a six-week time period and at night when no students are around.
Mr Lewis said neighbours have overall been supportive of the culling, that will alleviate a common kangaroo overpopulation issue in the area.
A spokesperson from the Office of Environment and Heritage confirmed NPWS issued the school with a licence under section 120 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act to undertake the culling of the kangaroos. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/18339/ | en | 2016-08-03T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/f44087e4128588be184f08f72c38dccf3e8200e24d2ab46c85e2b2aa16748792.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:16 | null | 2016-08-20T06:32:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fcardboard-factory-well-alight-in-st-marys%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/fire1.jpg | en | null | Fire engulfs cardboard factory | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Inquiries are continuing after a fire at a factory in St Marys this afternoon.
About 12.25pm, an employee at a cardboard factory in Kommer Place noticed a large fire elsewhere in the premises.
There were no other employees in the building at the time.
The male employee sustained minor burns to his face and hands. He was treated at the scene.
No other buildings were affected.
Once the site has been declared safe, the building will be examined by specialist personnel from NSW Police and Fire & Rescue NSW in an effort to determine the cause. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/cardboard-factory-well-alight-in-st-marys/ | en | 2016-08-20T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/ab9a9e132eaee6094ea293254ff96f20b5c87035676865b46db5cedc9624427d.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:12 | null | 2016-08-24T07:12:01 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fcar-bus-collide-at-mulgoa%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/accident3.jpg | en | null | Car, bus collide at Mulgoa | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A car and mini bus have collided head-on in wet conditions at Mulgoa this afternoon.
The accident happened at around 2pm.
The mini bus, which was transporting disabled passengers, and a silver sedan collided at speed with police and paramedics responding to the accident.
It’s understood the driver of the sedan was taken to Westmead Hospital, while four passengers from the mini bus were transported to Nepean Hospital.
Conditions remain wet at the scene and police remain in place investigating the crash.
Mulgoa Road is closed in both directions between Glenmore Parkway and Littlefields Road, with drivers urged to avoid travel in the area. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/car-bus-collide-at-mulgoa/ | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/bdb6693f041d43b4f63b623be657637f6c825db69f686c484218d0d5f24822f6.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-27T06:47:47 | null | 2016-08-27T06:43:41 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fman-robbed-at-knifepoint-in-st-marys%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/policenewsa.jpg | en | null | Man robbed at knifepoint in St Marys | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward following an armed robbery in St Marys this morning.
About 9.30am, a 25-year-old man returned to his vehicle parked on East Lane, when he was approached by two unknown men armed with knives.
Police have been told the pair threatened the man and demanded cash.
The man complied and the armed men fled towards Broke Lane, taking cash.
Officers from St Marys Local Area Command were notified of the incident and commenced investigations.
As inquiries continue, police would like to speak to two men who may be able to assist them.
Both men are described as being of Pacific Islander/Maori appearance and were wearing dark clothing (one with a ‘Nike’ branded top).
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/man-robbed-at-knifepoint-in-st-marys/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/925b2983d400bbebb6bfa3ed401a7e51d82f9dc8073b6213cd981c3f38eb0b42.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:22 | null | 2016-08-22T01:16:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fmayor-taxi-zone-a-ridiculous-outcome%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/karen1.jpg | en | null | Mayor: Taxi zone a “ridiculous outcome” | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown has blasted Transport for NSW over its decision to convert a long-standing 15 minute parking area at Penrith Station to a taxi zone.
As reported by the Weekender on Saturday, the parking area on Jane Street has been used by Penrith residents for decades to drop-off and pick-up family and friends at the busy Penrith Train Station.
On Friday, it was converted permanently to a taxi rank as part of ongoing upgrade works at the station. No additional parking or alternatives have been offered.
A social media storm has erupted over the decision and the Weekender understands some residents have been slugged fines of more than $200 for using the former parking area.
Transport for NSW is now under immense pressure to find a solution or reverse the decision.
“Council has absolutely no input to the decision to make that a taxi zone. We argued vehemently against it,” Mayor McKeown said.
“Transport for NSW haven’t taken up any of the suggestions we put forward. We said it would be a nightmare for commuters and it is.
“This was not a Council decision and this went against everything that Council suggested.”
Cr McKeown said the decision went against Council’s recommendation.
“It’s a ridiculous outcome that they have gone ahead and implemented,” she said.
“We are the local experts on traffic matters in the city, they might be okay in running train and bus timetables but when you are talking about parking and how people move around the city, listen to the people who [were asked for their input].”
For more on this story, see Friday’s print edition of the Weekender | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/mayor-taxi-zone-a-ridiculous-outcome/ | en | 2016-08-22T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/09ea6818426fddbbec08bf18c5c74f2f900dc5e225f1944970ee99fa441643d0.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-27T10:48:01 | null | 2016-08-27T10:30:24 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fpanthers-confirm-finals-spot%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/pantherssharks2.jpg | en | null | Panthers confirm Finals spot | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The Penrith Panthers have confirmed their spot in the NRL top eight and will play Finals football for just the third time in the last decade.
The Panthers had all but assured their spot in the post-season but put any doubts to rest with a thrilling 15-14 win over the Gold Coast earlier tonight.
Captain Matt Moylan was the hero, kicking a field goal in the dying minutes to secure the heart stopping victory.
Penrith’s final finishing spot in the top eight is yet to be determined but it’s likely the side will play either Brisbane or Canterbury in week one of the Finals.
The achievement of making the Finals is even more remarkable considering Penrith went through significant challenges throughout the year including moving on senior players Jamie Soward, Elijah Taylor and James Segeyaro.
Anthony Griffin becomes just the second Penrith coach in history to take the side to the Finals in his first season at the club, the other being Phil Gould in 1990.
The Panthers have made the Finals on the back of a tremendous group of young talent including Bryce Cartwright, Nathan Cleary and Tyrone Peachey, who has been outstanding in recent weeks.
The Panthers have won six of their last seven matches, including the last four in a row.
Officials will be hoping a big crowd will be at Pepper Stadium for the club’s final game of the regular season next Sunday at 6.30pm against Manly.
It wasn’t all good news for the Panthers tonight though, with Reagan Campbell-Gillard taken to hospital with a back injury. Initial fears are that he’ll miss the rest of the season. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/panthers-confirm-finals-spot/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/65feb16d24a422873d0c1454ef3c64c84e27187ddd857e7abcfb41afd0555cde.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:17 | null | 2016-08-23T06:30:41 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Flabor-rallies-the-troops-on-health-funding%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/hospital1.jpg | en | null | Labor rallies the troops on health funding | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Labor is hoping hundreds of people will attend a rally this Sunday and help put pressure on the NSW Government to fund upgrades for Nepean Hospital.
At the hospital on Monday, State Member for Londonderry Prue Car and Federal Member for Lindsay Emma Husar, announced they are pulling all of their people power together.
Ms Car said the rally will begin at the corner of Somerset Street and Rodgers Street at 1pm on Sunday, August 28, and protesters will walk to the Nepean Hospital entrance on Derby Street.
“Opposition Leader Luke Foley will be here, and we will be inviting all members of the community who want to come and join the campaign to save Nepean Hospital,” she said.
“This rally is the next stage of the campaign to get the Baird Government to take seriously the problems that are at Nepean Hospital.”
The State Government did allocate $1 million in funding for planning work for the hospital in May’s Budget, but Ms Car said it’s not enough.
“Even though this hospital needs in excess of $370 million for the Stage 4 upgrade, the Baird Government only allocated $1 million in the last Budget,” she said.
“This is about putting pressure on Stuart Ayres, Mike Baird and Jillian Skinner to come through with the money we need for Nepean Hospital.”
According to Ms Husar, health care budget cuts from a previous Abbott Government left state governments with gaps in healthcare, that are affecting locals on all fronts.
She said nurses and doctors at Nepean are doing everything they can, but are chronically understaffed.
“It’s one thing to upgrade it physically, but the recurrent funding that provides for the doctors, nurses and associated staffing is really important too,” she said. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/labor-rallies-the-troops-on-health-funding/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/64a03aaa275d598469ea54c469e366675ab59a007529698a0b149236e4d876f5.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-26T12:58:08 | null | 2016-08-21T22:53:16 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fmissing-cranebrook-woman-most-likely-dead-coroner-says%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/missingmum.jpg | en | null | Missing Cranebrook woman most likely dead, Coroner says | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Missing Cranebrook woman Cheryl Ardler is most likely dead, a NSW Coroner has ruled.
Deputy State Coroner Teresa O’Sullivan says Ms Ardler, who has not been seen since 2012, was on the balance of probabilities “killed by a person or persons unknown”.
A report into Ms Ardler’s disappearance was delivered by Magistrate O’Sullivan on Friday.
“The lack of the police signs of life checks to reveal any activity on relevant accounts or services, the cessation of her Centrelink benefits, the failure of Cheryl to contact any members of her family and the suspicious activity on her Facebook account would all point decisively to Cheryl being deceased,” the report said.
“The evidence points to the fact that Cheryl died between 5 December and 25 December 2012.”
Ms Ardler was 41 when she disappeared and hasn’t been seen since early December 2012.
Despite hearing of previous self-harm attempts, Magistrate O’Sullivan said it was unlikely that Ms Ardler took her own life.
Ms Ardler’s Facebook account played an intriguing role in the investigation, with her account showing signs of activity in 2013.
Detectives confirmed that over 100 activiations occurred post December 2012. They gave evidence at the Coroner’s inquest that police went through each and every IP address but were not able to link the activations to an individual device.
Police attempted to access Facebook records via the FBI in the United States, but the request was declined.
“There was evidence provided to the inquest to suggest that other persons, in particular Cheryl’s de-facto partner Dennis French, had full access to her Facebook account,” Magistrate O’Sullivan said.
“Sean Carpenter, who resided for a time with Dennis French and Cheryl Ardler between May and October 2012, stated that Cheryl accessed Facebook through Dennis’ phone.”
The inquest heard that Mr French and Ms Ardler had regularly argued about Ms Ardler’s Facebook activity.
Mr French has been named as the only person of interest in relation to Ms Ardler’s disappearance and suspected death.
“Mr French made a global objection to giving any evidence on the basis that to answer any questions likely to be asked of him would have the tendency to incriminate him for an offence against or arising under Australian law,” the report said.
“I upheld the objection,” Magistrate O’Sullivan said.
“Given the likelihood that the evidence would be unreliable, the serious nature and subject matter of the inquest and the potential liability for criminal charges, I did not find that the interests of justice required that Mr French give evidence over his objection.”
The Coroner recommended that the case be referred to the Unsolved Homicide Squad. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/missing-cranebrook-woman-most-likely-dead-coroner-says/ | en | 2016-08-21T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/e5c07c52daef860496596c16de48b4ebf9369a8498f2c1f02a8ce3ba8959edee.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-29T22:50:02 | null | 2016-08-29T21:24:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fbridge-work-gets-underway%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/greenbridge1.jpg | en | null | Bridge work gets underway | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | After some menial preparation tasks, the ‘heavy lifting’ for the Nepean River Green Bridge has finally begun.
Seymour Whyte Constructions began to build the piling foundations on Monday for the bridge’s two permanent abutments that will be responsible of holding a whopping 600 tonnes of steel.
Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres turned the first sod for the project he committed to in 2010, that is to be open and ready for use by the middle of 2018.
“People will be able to walk over the bridge between Penrith and Emu Plains and actually be able to see the river for the first time in 150 years,” he said.
Mr Ayres said the abutments will be some of the largest on any pedestrian bridge in the country, and are designed to be able to be integrated into future development on the Penrith side of the river.
The $49 million project is double what was originally allocated by the NSW Government for the bridge, and Mr Ayres said the extra $25 million will be spread out over two budgets.
“We are a government that has run a disciplined budget, we’ve got the capacity to absorb increased costs when they’re required,” he said.
“This bridge is being built for the price it costs to build it. It’s been a very complicated project and we’ve learnt a lot along the way.
“You can do as much early work as possible but the true cost is when you get to market and you see what people can build things for.”
Seymour Whyte’s Project Manager, Greg Anderson, said they offered the best value for money to achieve the NSW Government’s vision for a bridge.
“The budget was hard to meet but ours was the closest, and we went through a phase with RMS looking for further innovative savings,” he said.
Around 60 men and women will be working on the project at its peak to build the largest span pedestrian bridge of its kind.
“It’s a challenging construction, it’s not a run-of-the-mill but we’ve got some highly skilled contractors on board,” Mr Anderson said.
The bridge will have three spans incrementally launched over two piers, with the first span landing in February 2017. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/bridge-work-gets-underway/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/2388302062df390666c7e5e87e552cea803cb2706eb2c1fdb36795275250f2e3.json |
[
"Nathan Taylor"
] | 2016-08-30T04:50:14 | null | 2016-08-30T03:59:03 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fwanderer-for-a-day%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wanderersday.jpg | en | null | Wanderer for a day | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Last week I received an email from the Western Sydney Wanderers inviting me to be a member of the Wanderers XI for their annual Heritage Match against The King’s School Old Boys, to be held on the grounds of The King’s School at North Parramatta.
First, a little bit of history on why the match is played.
While the occasional football game was played in Hyde Park during the mid-1860s, the general belief was that the sport was not yet popular enough to be formalised in NSW.
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald in 1880, football had not “prospered sufficiently in the colony to justify the introduction of the Association game”.
The excerpt came from a report on a meeting held to establish the game officially in NSW.
The meeting of around 40 men, held on August 3, 1880 took place in Sydney where it decided the game of association football would be played under English rules.
On the same day, English emigrate John Walter Fletcher founded an XI that would later establish themselves as the first association football club in Australia to last beyond a few years – they were known as the Wanderers.
The first ever recorded football match in NSW would be played on Saturday, August 14, 1880 between The King’s School and the Wanderers XI.
The match, played at Parramatta Common, was watched by roughly 1000 people and is regarded as the official birth of the game of football in NSW.
To celebrate the historic occasion, each year the Western Sydney Wanderers “re-play” the match involving ex-Socceroos stars, former Wanderers players and Sydney media identities. This year, I was one of them.
Having never played a proper game of football before, apart from the odd muck around game with friends, I was nervously excited heading into the match.
The day before the game I purchased my first pair of shin pads and gave my footy boots a bit of a polish.
When I arrived at the pitch I received the famous ‘Red and Black’ Wanderers kit and met my famous teammates, which included ex-Socceroo Craig Foster, Matilda Catherin Cannuli, former Wanderers players Adam D’Apuzzo and Jason Trifiro, and new W-League coach Rich Byrne.
My first assignment was to play right-back. Once I figured out exactly what right-back did and where they stood, the nerves started to really settle in.
Due to the fast-paced nature of the game along with my naivety, much of the game is a blur but I distinctly remember Foster and ‘Glovesy’ the goalkeeper giving me some ‘lip’ or pointers throughout the match – I couldn’t really tell!
I must admit the support from my teammates, when I told them I was a newbie, was outstanding and I truly have a newfound respect for footballers – on all levels of the game – from now on.
In the end we lost to the more polished The King’s School outfit 7-3, which I’m told was a lot better than last year’s dismal 8-0 effort.
As for taking up football on a full-time basis? I think I’ll stick to writing about it! | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/wanderer-for-a-day/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/aee33699ea52682f046637da76b28eaeb0f7fc2e1e6cfe74ebac7e21bcf6aa1e.json |
[
"Troy Dodds"
] | 2016-08-30T22:50:42 | null | 2016-08-30T21:58:55 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Ftransport-chaos-no-buses-this-monday%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/bus2.jpg | en | null | Transport chaos: No buses this Monday | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Bus drivers will walk off the job for 24 hours on Monday, leaving commuters and students to find their own way to work and school.
Busways drivers in Penrith have already held several stop work meetings in recent weeks, but the situation has now escalated.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) says Busways continues to refuse to negotiate a fair and reasonable enterprise agreement to replace the one which expired in June 2015.
Instead, according to the Union, Busways have offered an agreement which:
● Has no guarantee of permanent work
● Provides for no company pay rise until 2018
● Drivers forced to answer anonymous complaints
● Removes the right for TWU driver representation
80 per cent of drivers last week rejected an agreement that offered these conditions.
“This is an absolute last resort,” TWU NSW Secretary Richard Olsen said.
“The last thing that drivers want to do is inconvenience passengers during peak periods and affect school services and we apologise in advance, however they feel as though the company has left them with no choice.”
Mr Olsen called on the State Government and Transport Minister Andrew Constance to get involved in the situation.
“It’s time for Minister Constance to intervene in this dispute in order to get Busways to make a genuine effort to negotiate with our members. The NSW Government is Busways principal contractor and has the power to intervene,” he said.
“Drivers are not asking for the world, they are simply wanting to maintain their current conditions with a fair and reasonable pay rise. Should our members be forced to stop for 24 hours on Monday, it will be as a result of the Minister’s refusal to intervene and our members will let their passengers know where to lay the blame. We say to the Minister that you have the power to fix this and it’s time for you to step in.”
In order to thank passengers for their patience and understanding, drivers have elected to enforce a fare-free week from Friday, September 2 to Friday, September 9. This means that passengers will not be charged for using Busways services during this week.
“Our members are aware how their 24 hour stoppage will affect passengers and have declared a fare-free week in order to thank them for their patience and understanding. Our members will be docked pay for this but want to show their gratitude to passengers for standing with them during this fight,” Mr Olsen said. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/transport-chaos-no-buses-this-monday/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/279aaa41bc45963bda918d93edef180d741687ea052d2e772aeed3ea0445ab6a.json |
[
"Kate Reid"
] | 2016-08-30T04:50:17 | null | 2016-08-30T04:07:34 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fclassic-tales-scary-twist%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/zombieland.jpg | en | null | Classic tale’s scary twist | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The walking dead are taking over local theatre company Ruby Productions’ new show ‘Alice in Zombieland’.
Audiences will get to experience the classic Lewis Carroll tale with a spooky, undead twist when Alice discovers that Wonderland is a little different to the way she left it.
All your favourite characters, including the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit and Tweedledee and Tweedledum, will make an appearance as Alice tries to uncover the reason why everyone is falling victim to the zombie outbreak.
Ruby Productions’ ‘Alice in Zombieland’ is written by Craig Sodaro and directed by Jessica Thorpe.
The show brings a fresh take on a childhood favourite and is suitable for all ages making it the perfect family theatre experience.
Grab your tickets to ‘Alice in Zombieland’ now!
‘Alice in Zombieland’ will be on at the John Lees Centre on Saturday, September 10, Saturday, September 17 and Saturday, September 24 at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets are $20 for concession and $25 for adults. To book tickets, visit www.trybooking.com/197228 or call 4735 5422 to book show only. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/classic-tales-scary-twist/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/98e9fa86d5cf6995283756de81b2995e37d29c97aa9f4db86b66c60a62db7c59.json |
[
"Jade Aliprandi"
] | 2016-08-26T12:51:48 | null | 2016-08-25T05:38:18 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fnew-in-blue-four-new-officers-start-work-at-st-marys%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/newcops.jpg | en | null | New in blue: Four new officers start work at St Marys | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Over 200 new police officers are on the beat across New South Wales, and four of them are making their mark in St Marys.
One of the biggest intakes of recruits for the station, the newly appointed probationary constables hit the ground running this week and got straight to work.
Speaking with the Weekender on their induction day, Probationary Constable B.J Duncan said he can’t wait to get back into it after he left the force more than 14 years ago.
“I started out on police radio as a civilian but I’m keen to get into the information technology side of it now,” Constable Duncan said.
“I’m really excited as it has been a long journey just to get here, so I’m looking forward to getting out there and meeting people who need help.”
Constable Duncan said what makes a good police officer is knowing how to handle any situation.
“Someone who has the integrity to handle all different dynamics of the public and also being able to understand people,” he said.
Each probationary constable spent the last eight months at the NSW Police Force Academy, and were deployed to local area commands across NSW.
Probationary Constable Jarrad Stauton said it’s a job he has seen himself doing for a long time.
“I’ve always wanted to be a police officer,” he said.
“It feels amazing to finally be here and I’m ready to get out there.”
The recruits will spend a year under the supervision of experienced officers and continue online learning before graduating with an Associate Diploma.
One new officer has also been deployed to Penrith Police Station. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/new-in-blue-four-new-officers-start-work-at-st-marys/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/c8fd15340160e7fb24e455c4da0f425914003f59439600657b71b4126806bef3.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:44 | null | 2016-08-25T21:41:03 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fwomans-car-stolen-at-knifepoint%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/policenewsb.jpg | en | null | Woman’s car stolen at knifepoint | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | A woman has been left shaken after a man stole her car at knifepoint from the driveway of her St Clair home.
The 40-year-old woman stopped her 2005-model Toyota Camry sedan in the driveway of her home in Morningbird Close around 8.40pm last night.
Police have been told a man, wearing a balaclava and armed with a knife, opened her door and told her to get out of her car.
The woman got out of the car and called for help from her husband, who was inside their home.
He came to her assistance and attempted to stop the car from being taken but was forced to let go and the car was last seen being driven away.
“Police from St Marys Local Area Command were called to the home and established a crime scene,” a Police Spokesperson said.
“Police are now appealing for public assistance to locate the maroon 2005-model Toyota Camry sedan, NSW registration AJ 98 HA; officers are urging anyone who finds the car not to touch the vehicle, and instead call their nearest police station or Crime Stoppers immediately.”
A description of a man who police believe may be able to assist with their inquiries has been released.
He is described only as having a stocky build and spoke with an Australian accent; at the time he was wearing a grey jumper and dark pants. His face was covered.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact police immediately and not to approach the man, who was last seen armed with a knife.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/womans-car-stolen-at-knifepoint/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/2a435d26c15def274bf32acaa950f7f0804e35615f80c9f9f9685da71b014d96.json |
[
"Nathan Taylor"
] | 2016-08-31T04:50:48 | null | 2016-08-31T03:44:20 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fthe-wonderful-world-of-waqa%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/waqa1.jpg | en | null | The wonderful world of Waqa | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Penrith Panthers centre Waqa Blake has praised senior teammates Peter Wallace and Trent Merrin for helping him become a better, more professional player.
After debuting in first grade to mediocre reviews last season, the 21-year-old is certainly having a season to remember, and is set to play a major role in Penrith’s Finals campaign beginning next week.
Early season injuries to regular centres Dean Whare and Peta Hiku paved the way for the rangy Fijian to return to the NRL this year and, so far, he’s proving the nasty Twitter trolls wrong.
Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, Blake said he’s a much more confident player this year compared to in his rookie season.
“I’ve blown away all those first year cobwebs and this year I’ve been lucky enough to be back in first grade,” he said.
“With the senior group we have now in Peter Wallace and Trent Merrin, they’ve been helping me better my game. I know there’s still a lot to work on but I’m loving the improvement so far.”
After coming through the grades being compared to none other than Greg Inglis, Blake is finally starting to reach his potential – crossing the line six times this year including a try in each of his last four games.
Blake said the biggest improvement he’s made this year is to his professionalism.
“Last year I wasn’t being professional in what I did, not only on the field but off it,” he admitted.
“Off the field now I’m trying my best to give back to the club because I know they give a lot to me. I’m making better decisions.”
Since making his NRL debut in 2015, Blake has been largely criticised by Panthers fans for making mistakes at crucial times in games.
While Blake’s unfortunate errors are still part of his game, he is certainly making up for his mistakes by scoring some scintillating tries.
“Last year I made heaps of errors and wasn’t able to bounce back, but after speaking to a lot of the boys and coaching staff this year, I’ve learned that I can’t let an error get to me anymore,” Blake said.
“I think that advice has really helped me a lot this season – I just have to move past it and owe it back to the team.”
Blake has been named in Penrith’s team to take on the Manly Sea Eagles this Sunday night at Pepper Stadium.
Assuming he gets through the final round unscathed, Blake will line-up the following week in his first NRL Finals match.
And he may even put pressure on Whare and Hiku to regain their spots in Penrith’s starting side for the 2017 season.
Blake said he’s confident the Panthers can shock some teams in the Finals despite their low position.
“The plan is to go all the way,” he said.
“We just need to keep our heads down and worry about what’s in front of us.
“I think we’ll be a tough team to play.” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/the-wonderful-world-of-waqa/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/c25b1a4d8a3d047216fdf87eb7105a78825ea14f5911c0b239c46a1b9e4fb094.json |
[
"Dale Drinkwater"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:43 | null | 2016-08-23T05:56:47 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Fdriving-home-important-message%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/drivewaysafety.jpg | en | null | Driving home important message | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | Not everyone has a pool, but everyone has a driveway, and that’s why Penrith Council candidate Sue Day is pushing for driveway safety to be a Council focus.
Ms Day is running in South Ward for the upcoming September 10 Council Election, and is working to gain momentum for a driveway safety campaign she said is as important as past successful swim safety campaigns.
“We are the first ones to acknowledge that driveway safety is a complex issue and there is no single solution,” she said.
“But at the Local Government level, the recommended guidelines and programs, if supported, may help in a reduction in the incidence of driveway-related trauma.
“There is no doubt that any measures are not substitutes for active and close supervision of small children, however, promoting awareness programs like these can play an important part.”
Between 2001 and 2010, an average of seven children were killed each year and 60 were seriously injured after being hit or run over by a motor vehicle at home, according to the Bureau of Infrastructure Transport and Regional Economics.
Unfortunately, a child known to South Penrith residents Shannon and Rebecca Carroll, became one of those sad statistics, when a father ran over his two-year-old son in their own driveway.
Since then, driveway safety has been at the forefront of their minds and, along with Ms Day, they believe a program needs to be implemented to reduce the chance of other families going through similar anguish.
The first step is the distribution of a flyer to help educate parents and provide strategies on driveway safety. | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/driving-home-important-message/ | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/f72cd367e16ffa2cbabb8f8877c300192572211c6d0dc6b879be1664deb95840.json |
[
"Ww News"
] | 2016-08-28T06:48:44 | null | 2016-08-28T05:33:35 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwesternweekender.com.au%2F2016%2F08%2Flabor-commits-to-nepean-hospital-upgrade%2F.json | http://westernweekender.com.au/wp-content/uploads/lukefoley.jpg | en | null | Labor commits to Nepean Hospital upgrade | null | null | westernweekender.com.au | The next State Election is three years away but Labor has already signalled it plans to make Nepean Hospital a key issue.
Opposition Leader Luke Foley announced today that if elected in 2019, Labor will fully fund the stage four $370 million upgrade to Nepean Hospital – the State’s most under pressure hospital.
A community rally was held at the hospital today, attended by Mr Foley.
In this year’s State budget, the Baird Government provided just $1 million in planning money for the much-needed Nepean Hospital upgrade – a move that was slammed by local doctors at the time as”‘insulting and woefully inadequate”.
In recent months, Nepean Hospital has struggled with a number of high profile controversies including:
· the longest waiting list for elective surgery in NSW;
· some of the longest waits for elective surgery in NSW and some of the longest waits in emergency departments;
· a baby breastmilk mix up;
· a decision to send some heart attack patients to other hospitals between 7am and 7pm on weekdays due to crumbling infrastructure; and
· a decision to send young mothers to Katoomba for elective caesarean section procedures due to lack of resources at Nepean Hospital.
Labor’s commitment to Nepean comes as the hospital deals with the longest wait times in NSW.
Last year more than 67,000 people used Nepean’s emergency department and 51 per cent of patients waited longer than four hours in the emergency department.
Mr Foley said it was vital that more funding is allocated to the hospital.
“Western Sydney can’t wait any longer. Patients, doctors and nurses have been strung along for too long by this Government,” he said.
“When patients suffering heart attacks can’t be admitted because the roof is crumbling it is clear that the situation is critical.
“I am making a commitment this far out from the election that Labor will deliver on our promise to upgrade Nepean.
“Western Sydney has been let down by Mr Baird and his North Shore cabal. The people here need to know that they will have the best health care on their doorstep, not a 30 minute drive down the road.”
Mr Foley’s comments will most likely anger State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, who issued a video on social media over the weekend talking up the State Government’s investments in Nepean Hospital.
Mr Ayres has called a media conference at the hospital tomorrow.
Last week, he told the Weekender that he didn’t trust Labor to improve Nepean Hospital.
“We have opened a new oral health clinic, new mental health centre, new east block and a new car park since 2011,” he said.
“We are still fixing Labor’s mess. Like the Cath Lab that is currently being repaired because the roof wasn’t planned properly when installed by Labor.
I simply don’t trust Labor to get Nepean Hospital right. Their track record is appalling and now they are attacking us for actually planning the Hospital before we stick a shovel in the ground.
“Only Labor would think building your family home without any plans is a good idea.” | http://westernweekender.com.au/2016/08/labor-commits-to-nepean-hospital-upgrade/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | westernweekender.com.au/7ff1003e44770370f794c1c9080921ac68b2eed8918e61a265e61806fabb6915.json |
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