PRESDIENTIAL ADVISOR KARL ROVE COMES TO TOWN
Presidential Advisor Karl Rove was at West rove High School this past Saturday to speak at the 11th Congressional District Convention. Rove told a large crowd that the democrats were planning to raise taxes, and increase spending. He said that their new plan would increase taxes on the bottom bracket by 50 percent. As for the war in Iraq, Rove said that it was a long time coming. He said that nothing was done after numerous attacks including the 1993 World Trade center Bombing, the attack on the USS Coal, and the training of terrorists among other things. Rove said that our country has the power to have victory in Iraq since we have a new commander. He said the goal is to secure the country, and provide the government with appropriate resources.
RACE TRACK PROPOSAL RAISES LOTS OF ISSUES
The city of Asheville does not want a new race track to be considered a bad neighbor according to Asheville City Council Member Jan Davis. He spoke about the issue on WHKP's Open Line Hendersonville show recently. Davis said that emotions are running high right now where the race track is concerned. He said they first discussed the race track at a council retreat, and then took it before council formally in order to get it higher on the priority list. Davis said that there were not enough votes in council to approve the track, but that there was interest in it. He said the city of Asheville will not build a race track with taxpayer dollars. He said they will first ask for a Request For Qualification, and submit it to a developer. Davis said that they have spoken to storm water experts, and they can build in the floodway. He said that a no impact study must be done. He said that should go well because of the amount of space that is available. He said there are a lot of issues that must resolved where the race track is concerned.
BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE MEETS TODAY
The Henderson County Blue Ribbon Committee on Illegal Immigration will meet today in the County Commissioners' Meeting Room according to committee chairman Bob Heltman. He said that the first meeting was organizational, and people got to know each other. He said that right now the goal of the committee is to hear about the impact of illegal immigration on different parts of the community. He said that at the meeting today, they are hoping to hear from people in the healthcare field, and how illegal immigration is impacting them.
JW DAVIS COMPLETES BOSTON MARATHON
Carolina First Bank President J.W. Davis recently ran in the 111th Boston Marathon. He told WHKP news that it was a great experience. He said that there was a large amount of rain during part of it, and that the wind blew, but that just added to the experience. He said that it was amazing to see how much support the runners received from towns along the 26 mile run. Davis said he is not planning anymore major runs until he has had time to rest from this one. He said he would like to run the Chicago Marathon, but whether he does that or not, he said nothing would compare to Boston.
BUSY SEASON FOR BREVARD MUSIC CENTER
There will be a wealth of entertainment at the Brevard Music Center this summer according to Emma Condellier who is with the Brevard Music Center. She told WHKP news that this will be the last summer for Artistic Director David Ephron. She said that the first event will be a fundraising concert on June 15th, and it will feature the Steep Canyon Rangers bluegrass band. She said that Nancy Griffith, who sings a variety of Folk, Pop, and Country music will perform this summer as well. Condellier said that other performers will include a performance of Beethoven's 5th Symphony, and a performance of Learner and Lowe's Camelot among many others. She said tickets will be available by phone beginning today, and that people can also get tickets by mail or online.
CEMETERY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MET RECENTLY
The Henderson County Cemetery Advisory Committee met recently, and confirmed the cemeteries that needed signs fist according to committee chairman Jay Jackson. He said that some of the cemeteries on the list for signs include Jones at Upward Road, and Jones at Sugarloaf, St, Paul's, Mccarson, Hutchinson, and many others in the county.
NEW FANNING BRDIGE ROAD EXTENSION OPENS MAY 8TH
The new extension that will connect Fanning Bridge Road to Cane Creek road will open on May 8th. Fletcher Town Manager Mark Beiberdorf said this project was a result of an agreement between the town of Fletcher, and North Carolina Department of Transportation. He said that they agreed to provide funding for construction if the town of Fletcher would offer funding for design. Beiberdorf said that the extension will move traffic more efficiently, and it will provide another route for Fletcher Fire and Rescue. He also said that this new route will be another access point to the Heart of Fletcher.
LOCAL CHURCH CELEBRATES 150 YEARS
Fletcher First United Methodist Church celebrated their 150th anniversary recently according to church member Fran Leroy. She said the church got its charter in September of 1866, and they started out with the name Patty's Chapel. She said the church held a two day celebration to commemorate the occasion that began on Saturday April 21st. Leroy said that four of the five past ministers attended the event on Saturday. She said that a former minister did the sermon on April 22nd, and they held a luncheon that day as well.
JOHNSON FARM HOLDS RICH HSTORY
The 17th annual Johnson Farm Festival was held this past Saturday. Johnson Farm Director Ingrid Mcnair told WHKP news that they wanted to keep the legacy of the farm alive. She said that the Johnsons wanted people, and especially children to know how people lived in earlier times. She said the Johnsons were always interested in education, and they donated 50 acres of land for Rugby Middle School, and they built the football stadium at West Henderson High School. She said that toward the end of their life they donated their land and their buildings to Henderson County Public Schools. She said the festival is held in their memory. Mcnair estimated that 1500 people came to the farm on Saturday.
STUDENTS WILL ATTEND SCHOOL ON MEMORIAL DAY
Henderson County students will have to attend school on Memorial Day to make up days missed because of bad weather according to Henderson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Stephen Page. He told WHKP News that the wind storm in April caught the school system by surprise. He said the decision to have students attend school on Memorial Day was collaborative, and he tried to get as much input as possible from teachers and principals. He said that nobody particularly liked the idea, but that it was the best option. Page said that Memorial Day will be a shortened day for students, and schools will have programs to observe the significance of the day, and they will be age and grade appropriate.
ONE PARENT SAYS MEMORIAL DAY SHOULD BE OBSERVED
One Henderson County parent is upset that school will be in session on Memorial Day. Kristen Hinkle told WHKP News that her children will not attend school that day. She said that Memorial Day is an important time for remembering soldiers who have served in the past, and who are serving now. She said the day should be observed to teach our children what is truly important. She said that if people do not pull together, and remember the past, it will be a mistake.
POLICE ARREST RAPE SUSPECT
Hendersonville Police have made an arrest in the case of a rape that occurred over the weekend according to Captain Doug Jones with the Hendersonville Police Department. He told WHKP News that police responded to a report of a rape on Saturday, April 28th. Jones said that the woman was able to identify her rapist, and she was taken to Pardee Hospital for treatment. He said that soon after that 31-year-old Alvero Mendez Gulliermo was arrested, and charged with First Degree Rape, and Assault On a Female. Jones said that the suspect is currently being held in the Henderson County Detention Center under $306,000 bond.
LOCAL PRINCIPAL WILL TAKE NEW JOB AFTER THIS YEAR
West Henderson High School Principal Jan Webster will take a new position at the end of this school year according to Henderson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Stephen Page. He told WHKP News that Dr. Webster indicated to him last week that she had taken a job with the Western Regional Education Alliance. Page said this is something that she had been wanting to do, and that it would allow her to spend more time with her family. He said that Webster told him that she had enjoyed her time at West Henderson High School. He said the position would be advertised, the interview process would begin, and hopefully a new principal would be named before the end of the year. Page said that Dr. Webster did a great job at West Henderson High School, and she will be missed.
COUNTY TO HOLD VESTED RIGHTS HEARING TODAY
The Henderson County Board of Commissioners will hold a vested rights hearing on the matter of Biltmore Farms according to Henderson County Commission Chairman Bill Moyer. He said this hearing is allowed under an ordinance that protects developers when zoning changes are made. He said that the Commissioners will hear evidence from the developer, and then a decision will be made as to whether they are entitled to vested rights.
CITY COUNCIL WILL MEET THIS THURSDAY AT 5:45 P.M.
Hendersonville City Council will hold their monthly meeting on Thursday ,May 3rd beginning at 5:45 P.M. according to Hendersonville Mayor Greg Newman. He told WHKP News that several items will be covered. He said that the council will have a second reading of the issue of the historical designation for the downtown area. He said the second reading is happening because their was a split vote on the issue at the last meeting. Newman said the council will also consider approval of new commercial construction at the old Sky City location off of Spartanburg Highway. He said they will talk about what the construction would look like, and what is needed for the project. He said they will also discuss the plan to extend Chadwick Avenue from Spartanburg Highway to Old Spartanburg Highway as part of the traffic initiative that the council wants to implement. Newman said the council will also consider a request for rezoning and construction off of Upward Road. In addition to those items, he said they will also discuss events coming up downtown from spring through fall. Lastly, Newman said they would discuss designating some parking spaces on Church Street as a loading and unloading zone. He said this will be the drop off point for the thrift store at Mainstay since Mainstay is moving to their new location in the old Fifth Avenue Lighting building.
MOUNTAIN FIRST BANK WILL OPEN NEW BRANCH
Mountain First Bank and Trust has announced that they will be opening a new branch in Lake Lure. Mountain First Bank and Trust CEO Greg Gibson told WHKP News that this will be the 12th office that the bank has opened before their third birthday which takes place May 14th. He said that Edith Bond will be the Branch Manager, and Bill Morris will be the Commercial Lender. He said they look forward to having an office in Rutherford County, and that Forest City should be coming on board soon as well.
MOUNTAIN FIRST TO OPEN NEW OPERATIONS CENTER
Mountain First Bank and Trust is hoping to have their new operations center open by the end of May according to Greg Gibson, Mountain First Bank and Trust CEO. He told WHKP News that the new center on Spartanburg Highway will provide 17,000 to 18,000 square feet which will give people a lot more room to work. He said the current building is crowded.
FATZ CAFE HELPS OUT DURING WIND STORM
FATZ Cafe was fortunate enough not to lose power during the recent wind storm according to owner Ralph McMurray. He told WHKP News that FATZ stayed open to feed emergency crews, and also people who were without power. He said that extra staff was brought in to help, and that his staff understands that bad weather means that they have to work very hard. He said he did not know the exact number of people that were eating there because they had no power, but he came to table after table of people who were appreciative that they were open during the bad weather.
FIRE IN EDNEYVILLE BURNS 80 ACRES
Outdoor burning was the cause of a fire that burned 80 acres in Edneyville on Sunday according to Henderson County Emergency Management Coordinator Rocky Hyder. He told WHKP News that the fire moved fast, but fortunately, it was contained quickly, and it did not threaten any homes. Hyder said this is another example of how high winds and low humidity can cause a fire to get out of control. He said if people have to burn they need to keep their fire small. He said that people should wait about a month to burn if they possibly can.
ENJOY WATERFALLS FROM BELOW THIS SUMMER
Waterfalls are beautiful, but they can be extremely dangerous according to Henderson County Emergency Management Coordinator Rocky Hyder. He told WHKP News that wet rocks with moss and other growth are very slippery. He said that nobody is experienced enough to cross a waterfall safely, and the best thing to do is to enjoy waterfalls from below.
BE PREPARED WHEN HIKING THIS SPRING AND SUMMER
Hiking is a popular activity when warm weather arrives, but there are things that people should do to stay safe according to Henderson County Emergency Management Coordinator Rocky Hyder. He told WHKP News that the first thing people should do when planning a hike is to get a good map of the area, and know how to navigate. He said that people should also let others who will not be hiking with them know where they are, and when they plan to be back, so that in the event that something happens, people will know where to send help. Hyder said that people should also be prepared in case they do get lost, and they should bring food, water, and a quick shelter.
HONORAIR TRIP SET TO TAKE PLACE THIS SATURDAY
The next Honorair trip will take place this Saturday according to Mike Murdoch with Henderson County Veterans Services. He told WHKP News that the group of 102 veterans, and 35 guardians will visit the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, the Korean Memorial, and Arlington Cemetery. He said everyone will be back in time for dinner at home. He said there is still room for veterans on the trip that is scheduled for June 2nd, and the trip scheduled for September 22nd. He also said there is still a need for donations, and people can bring money to the Veteans Services Office on Spartanburg Highway, or to Miller's Cleaners on King Street.
BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE STILL GATHERING INFORMATION
The Blue Ribbon Committee on Illegal Immigration is still gathering information according to Committee Chairman Bob Heltman. He told WHKP News that at the meeting this past Monday the committee heard from Tom Bridges who is with the Health Department. He said that the committee was hoping to find out how much time and money was spent taking care of illegal immigrants, but that Mr. Bridges was unable to tell them anything, because the law does not allow him to ask patients if they are here illegally. Heltman said they also heard from Sandy Morgan with DSS, and she was able to give some numbers, although she also had restrictions on what she could and could not tell them. He said they are trying to figure out what information to take back to the County Commissioners, and that at this point they still want to hear from school representatives, and also people in the hotel business, along with construction and landscaping, among many others to find out how illegal immigration is effecting the community. Heltman said they also wanted to hear from taxpayers. He said the next meeting will be held next Monday from 11:30 to 1:00 in the County Commissioners meeting room on King Street.
KENNY BARNWELL SAYS SOME THINGS SURVIVED
The peaches have come off of the trees according to Henderson County grower Kenny Barnwell. He said even though the peach crop is gone, there will still be a few apples, but not many. He said there are no Red Delicious, but there are some Gold Rush, Romes, and Golden Delicious. He said the wind and cold temperatures did not kill his young trees, and that is what he was most worried about. Barnwell also talked about his sweet corn, and said that he waited until later to plant because he did not want to be on top of the market further south.
COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE TODAY AT PARDEE HOSPITAL
Pardee Hospital will hold a community blood drive today in conjunction with the American Red Cross according to Pardee Hospital Public Relations Specialist Chris Power. He said the drive will be held from 7:30 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. and then again from 12:30 P.M. until 4:30 P.M. He said it will be held at Pardee in the Jamison Conference room which is on the Fleming Street side of the hospital. He said in order to donate, a person must be healthy, at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and not have donated blood within the last 56 days. He said walk-ins are accepted, but people who make appointments will be seen first. People can call 698-7302 to make an appointment. Power said people are encouraged to participate in this blood drive because blood has been sent to help in recent disasters including the Virginia Tech shootings, and the supply is critically low.
MILLS RIVER TOWN COUNCIL CHANGES RULES
Mills River town Council met on Thursday, April 26th, and made changes in some of the rules regarding clustering developments according to Mills River Town Manager Jamie Adrignola. She told WHKP News that they adopted the draft of an amendment that had been discussed under public hearing. She said that now the rules for clustering developments state that the overall density for single family developments is one per 40,000 where it used to be one per 30,000. She said that multifamily must be 4 dwelling units per acre rather than 8 units. She said that developments must also run on publicly owned and maintained water and sewer. Adrignola said the council also heard a presentation from staff on a staffing study, and they will have a workshop on that today. Lastly, she said they heard an update on sales tax.
MILLS RIVER RESIDENT IS HAPPY WITH CHANGES
Mills River town council acted appropriately to reduce the amount of clustering in Mills River according to resident Steve Dozier. He told WHKP News that they had a problem with Biltmore Homes wanting to build a high density development there, and the town council listened to what citizens had to say about a development like that not being good for the area, and made the appropriate changes. He said that one change that he sees as very effective is that developments must run on publicly maintained water and sewer. Dozier says he feels that may stop some people from wanting to develop in Mills River.
WATER DEPARTMENT DISCOVERS BLOCKED WATER MAIN
The Hendersonville Water Department was able to fix a blocked water main near the 600 block of 7th Avenue on Monday according to Hendersonville Water Department Manager Lee Smith. He told WHKP News that He said that it was effecting a service lateral, then flowing into storm drains, and then into an unnamed tributary of Mud Creek near Ashe Street. He said they dammed the creek, and flushed the storm drains, and they were able to fix the block. He said that the water supply was not effected.
WHKP IS STILL NUMBER ONE IN HENDERSON COUNTY
WHKP is still the most listened to radio station in Henderson County according to the Arbitron County Coverage Report which was just recently published. WHKP Vice President Richard Rhodes told WHKP News that this news is exciting. He said WHKP has always been the most listened to radio station in the county. He said there have been some changes over the past year, including the retirement of one long time member of the air staff. Rhodes said that we still have things people want to listen to including local news, weather, and live personalities during the day. He said people also love the specialty programs including the bluegrass program. He said ratings have increased over the last year. He said that advertisers who choose WHKP are guaranteed to reach the largest audience in Henderson County by 69 percent.
KILPATRICK AND SONS UPHOLSTRY HOPES TO EXPAND
The building right next door to Kilpatrick and Sons Upholstery has been torn down. J J Kilpartick owns that building as well as the building that houses his business. He said that he hopes to build a new two story building to expand the upholstery shop, and also to open a fabric store. He said it was time for the old building to be torn down because the roof had fallen in. He said the new project will begin as soon as there is enough money.
UNITED COMMUNITY BANK BUILDING COMING ALONG WELL
A permanent building to house United Community Bank on Chimney Rock Highway is progressing well according to United Community Bank City President Alex Freeman. He told WHKP News that the good weather has helped move the project along. He said that it is about 60 to 75 percent complete including foundation, the walls, and the roof. He said the building should be complete by late summer, and that it will be the flagship office for Henderson County. Freeman said that they already have another office in Etowah, but they hope to have a building on Main Street at some point, and perhaps other places in the county as well.
RESURFACING PROJECT MAKING PROGRESS
The resurfacing project between mile markers 55 and 59 is going very well according to DOT Engineer Ronnie Clark. He said that the Westbound lane was complete, and they were starting on the Eastbound side. He said that weather has been good, and that has helped the project. He said that it should be complete by June of this year.
MALFUNCTION JUNCTION PROJECT GOING WELL
The project to help ease traffic congestion at the I-40 interchange known as Malfunction Junction is well underway according to DOT Engineer Ronnie Clark. He told WHKP News that they hope to have the concrete poured, and have the traffic switched from the middle lane to the westbound lane by July of this year. He said that people will not see a big difference in traffic flow until more lanes are added. He said the project should be complete by July of 2008. Clark said that DOT had not been receiving complaints since the project began. He said that traffic is backed up, but that was a problem before the project started.
OLD TIME MUSIC FESTIVAL TAKING PLACE THIS WEEKEND
The 9th Annual Old Time Music Festival will take place this Saturday in Downtown Hendersonville according to Downtown Hendersonville Incorporated Executive Director Lee Henderson Hill. She spoke with WHKP News, and said that the free event will be held this Saturday and Sunday rain or shine. She said the festival will run from 11:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, and from 1:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. on Sunday. She said that last year the festival brought 40 musicians and musical groups. Hill said that people will hear a variety of instruments including the banjo, guitar, and the dulcimer.
HOSPICE HOME STORE OVERSTOCK SALE SATURDAY
Four Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care will hold an overstock sale at their warehouse on South Allen Road from 9:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. this Saturday according to Event Coordinator Kathy Theielke. She told WHKP News that the community has been so generous in donating things to the home store, that they do not have enough space for everything. She said there will be a variety of things that people can buy including clothes, light fixtures, furniture, and sporting equipment.
GAS PRICES STILL GOING UP IN OUR AREA
There is no way to know how high gas prices are going to go according to Jane Cannon with Triple AAA Carolinas. She spoke with WHKP News, and said that she hoped it would not go above $3.00 a gallon. She said that demand is the reason for the high prices. She said that we are producing less gasoline, but people are buying around 4% more than they were this time last year. She said gas prices in the Asheville area are at $2.95 a gallon for regular. Cannon said that the lowest price is in Fayetteville, and the price is $2.90. She said people were paying $2.92 a gallon in Asheville around this same time last year. She said there are some things customers can do to make things better including not letting their gas tank get completely empty before refilling. She also said that people should look around for lower prices. She said she has seen prices vary by as much as ten cents from one street corner to another. Cannon said that people should keep their tires inflated, and not make quick stops and starts while driving. Lastly, she said people should consult the manual that goes with their vehicle, and make sure they are using the right gasoline.
GAS PRICES MAY GO ABOVE $3.00 A GALLON
It would not be a big surprise to see gas prices go above $3.00 a gallon according to Gary Harris with the North Carolina Petroleum Marketers Association. He said that he was in Washington recently, and heard rumors that the price would reach $4.00 a gallon. He said he thinks that is a little high, but that it could go over $3.00. He said that the biggest reason for the price increase is demand. He said that demand is not only high in the United States, but also in other countries such as China that are building more roads, and buying more vehicles.He said that because of this, we are competing in a world market, and prices will continue to go up. Harris said that another reason that prices go up is because refineries can only do so much at a time, and there have not been any new refineries built in awhile. He said the industry is not going to be able to cope with the demand, and the supply will tighten. He said if people continue to drive as much as they are prices will continue to increase. He said that he knows that consumers want to see prices go back down to $1.50, and he said retailers feel the same way, because when wholesale prices are high they make less profit. He said the people that are profiting are those that deal in crude oil.
CUSTOMERS SAY GAS PRICES ARE TOO HIGH
Customers are blaming retailers for the high gas prices according to one gas station attendant from the Apple Valley Gas House. She told WHKP News that customers think that the retailers control how high the prices are, but a company in Winston Salem actually makes the decision. She said she has seen prices as high as $2.99, and she thinks they will be higher for Memorial Day. WHKP News spoke with a customer who was visiting here from Kentucky, and he said the price he paid at the pump of $49.00 was the highest he had ever paid to fill up his vehicle. He said the high prices will not cause him to cut back on his driving. Local customer James McDowell told WHKP News that he put enough gas in his truck to last him about half a day, and that the prices had caused him to stop driving so much. He said he feels like the high gas prices are purely political. Hendersonville resident Tom Freeman told WHKP News that the price of gas is getting so high that he is having to reconsider long trips, and even trips into town.
WHKP MOM OF THE YEAR CONTEST IS BACK
WHKP is again having our Mom of the Year contest. Listeners are encouraged to nominate a mom in our community that we should consider to win the prize package. Nine local merchants are participating with WHKP and giving great gifts to the winner. Gift certificates will be coming from Bon Worth , Raymond's Garden Center, Acropolis Restaurant, and Sears. Lunch from Doc's Deli, A tapestry jacket from Sugarstreet Weavers, a facial and gift set from Merle Norman, and a special gift from United Community Bank. Winners will also receive a tea from Cafe on the Veranda at A Day In the Country. To enter the contest, mark your Mom of the Year entry email to info@whkp.com, or fax to 696-9329 (WHKP), or drop your entry off at Broadcast House. Prior winners are excluded, and entries will close on Thursday, May 10th. The winner will be announced on Friday May 11th.
SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT CONDUCTS CHECK POINT
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department conducted a license check point on Friday, April 27th from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Airport Road in the Tracy Grove community according to Sheriff's Department Public Affairs Director Joe Johnson. He told WHKP News that they wrote 34 citations ranging from child safety seat violations to expired inspection stickers to no operators license. He said a citation was also given for a motorcycle endorsement violation. He said the department is working hard to make our roads safer through traffic enforcement, and education.
WNC HERB FESTIVAL TAKES PLACE THIS WEEKEND
The Western North Carolina Herb Festival begins today at the Western North Carolina Farmers' Market According to Herb Festival Coordinator Rick Morgan. He said the festival will take place today and tomorrow from 9:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M., and Sunday from 10:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. Morgan said that this is the 19th year for the festival, and that it allows people to gather and market all different kinds of herbs. He said people are welcome to come and have a good time, and admission is free.
CITY COUNCIL APPROVES PROJECTS AT MEETING
Hendersonville City Council approved some major projects at their meeting this past Thursday according to Hendersonville Mayor Greg Newman. He told WHKP News that council approved a commercial development on Upward Road near I-26. He said the project will include residences, and a hotel. In addition to that project, Newman said that the council officially adopted the historical designation for Downtown Hendersonvllle. He said this is important because it is the first commercial historical designation in Hendersonville.
NOT EVERYONE IN FAVOR OF HISTORICAL DESIGNATION
There is no need for a local historical designation for Downtown Hendersonville according to Hendersonville City Council member John Laughter. He told WHKP News that there is already a federal historical designation for Hendersonville, and he did not see the need for a local designation on top of it. He said that the local designation could lead to problems. An example that he gave was the problem that is going on now with the widening of 64 West near the schools. He said that the DOT is now saying that they cannot widen that area to a full three lanes because there is a historical wall. He said the historical designation is blocking the opportunity for a major road improvement, and he is afraid the same thing could happen in the future in Downtown Hendersonville.He said that a historical designation is fine if the businesses volunteer to do it, but he does not think it is fair for the city to make that decision for all of Downtown Hendersonville.
DEVELOPMENT APPROVED ON SOUTH END OF TOWN
Hendersonville City Council approved a development on the South end of town at their meeting this past Thursday according to Hendersonville Mayor Greg Newman. He told WHKP News that this project will include three buildings facing Spartanburg Highway. He said this approval also led to discussion about the Chadwick Avenue extension from Spartanburg Highway to Old Spartanburg Highway. Newman said this extension would be important because it would help traffic flow in that area. Newman also said that the council discussed an increased rate for water to pay for renovations of the plant in Mills River, and also to pay for the purchase of water from Asheville. Newman also wanted to remind people that a dance event will be taking place in Downtown Hendersonville this weekend in conjunction with Music On Main Street.
CARLA RAXTER NAMED COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Henderson County Public Schools named Kindergarten Teacher Carla Raxter as Henderson County Teacher of the Year according to Henderson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Stephen Page. He told WHKP News that this award was given to Raxter after she was selected through a committee. The award was given at a luncheon this past Wednesday. Page said the county was delighted to give this award. Carla Raxter, who teaches at Glenn C. Marlowe Elementary School told WHKP News that she felt honored to receive the award. She said she got her education in Henderson County, and felt glad to be able to give something back. She said she felt like learning should be as natural as possible, and that teachers should build on natural curiosity.
SUCCESSFUL BLOOD DRIVE AT PARDEE HOSPITAL
The Henderson County chapter of the American Red Cross held a successful blood drive this past Friday in conjunction with Pardee Hospital. Henderson County Red Cross Executive Director Mike Williams told WHKP News that the drive collected 50 units of blood. He said giving blood is critical because the blood that the Red Cross has on hand only has a 42 day shelf life, and it must be replenished. He said that even after the blood drive, O Positive, O Negative, B Negative, and A Negative remain at low levels. He said when blood is at emergency levels it means that special arrangements have to be made for patients to get the blood they need. Williams said that Mills River Methodist will hold a blood drive on May 11th, and that Sam's will hold a drive on May 19th which will include special prizes for donors. He also said that the Red Cross will hold their monthly drive at the Henderson County office on May 14th. He said that if people want more information on blood drives they can call the Red Cross at 693-5605, or visit the web site at www.hcredcross.org.
ETOWAH INCORPORATION MEETING HELD LAST WEEK
Citizens of the Etowah Community got together last week to continue discussing the possibility of incorporation, but people had other things on their minds according to Etowah Resident Linda Johnson. She said that issue was talked about some, but that people were more concerned about the Seven Falls development, and the Biltmore Farms Hamilin Place development. She said there will be a meeting about incorporation on May 24th, and there will be a meeting to discuss the two developments on May 9th.
TOWN OF MILLS RIVER CONSIDERS STAFFING CHANGES
The town of Mills River met for a special workshop last week to discuss a staffing study according to Mills River Town Manager Jamie Adrignola. She said that the council considered adding a zoning administrator, and they also spoke about bringing the town to performance management. She said they also talked about pay raises. In addition to the staffing study, she said the council also discussed the possibility of a nuisance ordinance, and how it could be developed.
ONE ARREST MADE IN HEDRICK MURDER CASE
Buford Filmore Snoddy was arrested around 5:30 P.M. Monday evening, and charged with the murder of Katherine Tracy Hedrick according to Henderson County Sheriff Rick Davis. He made the announcement at a press conference Monday evening. He said that Snoddy is the primary suspect, but they do expect to make one more arrest. Hedrick was found dead in the Snoddy home in early April. Davis said this was an ongoing investigation, and that all of the evidence was being examined. Buford is scheduled to appear in District Court today.
FIRE DANGER WILL RETURN WITH WARM DRY WEATHER
The recent rain in our area did ease the fire danger, but the warm dry weather in the forecast will increase it once again according to Henderson County Emergency Management Coordinator Rocky Hyder. He told WHKP News that if people have to burn they need to be cautious. He said people should keep their brush piles, and their fires small, and be aware of the wind.
TEACHER CHARGED WITH FIRST DEGREE SEX OFFENSE
East Henderson High School teacher Julie Miller Culbertson was arrested Friday and charged with First Degree Sex Offense according to Henderson County Sheriff Rick Davis. He told WHKP News that the arrest was made after a citizen called in with concerns about a possible teacher/student relationship. Davis said that there was probable cause that there was illegal activity. He said she was arrested Friday, and posted $10,000 bond that evening. Davis said if there are any more victims involved in this case, they need to come forward.
LOCAL MAN SERVED WITH DRUG CITATIONS
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department obtained a warrant to search a home at 737 Old Spartanburg Highway on April 25th. They issued two citations and seized more than one pound of Marijuana, and a large amount of drug paraphernalia. Nathaniel Junior Grissett was charged with possession with intent to sell marijuana, maintaining a dwelling for the sale and delivery of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
TWO SUSPECTS CHARGED WITH BREAKING AND ENTERING
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department responded to a possible breaking and entering on Old Dana Road on Friday,May 4th according to Henderson County Sheriff Rick Davis. He told WHKP News that they detained one person at the residence, and at about the same time they saw another one jump off a roof. He said the suspects then fled into a wooded area. Davis said that after a perimeter was established, a K-9 unit was brought in, and both suspects were arrested and charged with breaking and entering.
AIRPORT SAYS NTSB IS STILL INVESTIGATING CRASH
The National Transportation Safety Board is still investigating the plane crash that happened on Ball Gap Road in Buncombe County on Friday according to Asheville Airport Marketing Director Patti Michael. She told WHKP News that the Asheville Airport Department of Public Safety was notified of the crash around 11:00 A.M. Friday morning. She said they sent fire fighter rescue crews to help locate the aircraft, and it was found around 1:00 P.M. just off the Blue Ridge Parkway on Ball Gap Road.
THREE FATALITIES IN PLANE CRASH ON FRIDAY
Three men were killed in the plane that went down on Ball Gap Road in Buncombe County this past Friday according to Randy Sorrells who is with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Department. He said the men have been identified as James Hillburn, James Rodney Conell, and Jefferson Davis the Third. Sorrells said the three men were from Georgia, and had planned a day trip to Asheville. He said that they were trying to fly into the Asheville Airport when witnesses heard mechanical problems. He said the plane dropped off the radar at the airport shortly before 11:00 A.M. and the Sheriff's Department instituted a search, and the wreckage was found later that day.
HONORAIR RECEIVES SPECIAL CALL SIGN FROM FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration in Washington D.C. has awarded Honorair with their own call sign according to Asheville Airport Marketing Director Patti Michael. She told WHKP News that the flight will now be known over the FAA airwaves as Honorair One. She said the only other private aircraft with such a call sign is Airforce One. She said the award was given because the Honorair flights go over several states. She said the local FAA representatives wanted to get the designation for the veterans. Honorair Committee member Jeff Miller told WHKP News that he sees the call sign as a stamp of confidence for what they have been doing. He said the air traffic controllers took the project on, and made a presentation in Washington. Miller said it is just another thank you to the veterans.
VETERANS TAKE ANOTHER GREAT HONORAIR TRIP
The honorair trips are always successful when everyone stays safe according to Honorair Committee member Jeff Miller. He said this was the first time they had flown with the new Honorair One call sign. He said there were 100 veterans on the trip this time. He said they visited the WWII Memorial, the Viet Nam Memorial, the Iwo Jima Memorial, the Korean Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Women's Memorial, and they also witnessed the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington. Miller said their next trip will be June 2nd, and the last trip for Henderson County will be September 22nd. He said there are Honorair trips happening all over the country now, and our Honorair, and all of those that are involved locally are proud to have been part of the idea.
TWO BIG WEEKS FOR HOSPITAL STAFF
National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week are both taking place this week according to Pardee Hospital Public Relations Specialist Chris Power. He told WHKP News that these weeks are two of the most important weeks for the hospital. He said there are several activities planned to recognize the 1400 employees, and 270 physicians at the hospital. Power said that National Hospital Week was recognized in 1921, and is the largest healthcare event. He said it is meant to recognize those who work with patients, and those who work in support positions. He said Nurses Week ends on May 12th which is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who is considered the founder of nursing. He said the staff will get a free breakfast this week along with a free lunch. He also said that the nurses will have a lot of different games and activities, and a back to basics day on Friday when they will be encouraged to wear the old nurses uniforms. Power said there is also a photo contest for associates, and the public is welcome to come to the hallway near the cafeteria, and look at the pictures.
PASSPORT PROCESSING EVENT THIS THURSDAY
Triple AAA Vacations will be sponsoring a Passport Processing Event on Thursday, May 10th from 9:00 A.M. until 2:30 P.M. at 136 South King Street according to George Martin who is with Triple AAA Vacations. He told WHKP News that they are having this event to help people get passports since people now must have passports to go in and out of the U.S. even to Mexico and Canada. He said people can call 697-8778 to make an appointment. He said packets of information will be sent, so people need to give their name and address. He said appointments will be about every 15 minutes
EDERLY WOMAN FOUND AT CAMP TON-A-WANDA
The Henderson County Sheriff's Office working in conjunction several other local agencies found 62-year-old Katherine Mary Anderson at around 10:15 Wednesday morning according to Henderson County Sheriff's Department Public Affairs Director Joe Johnson. He told WHKP news that Anderson was found on in a field on the Camp Ton-A-Wanda not far from her home. property, and that she was not injured. He said the search took around 12 hours.
COMMISSIONERS HEAR PROPOSED BUDGET
Henderson County Commissioners heard a presentation on the proposed budget at their meeting Monday night according to County Commission Chairman Bill Moyer. He told WHKP News that there was not much discussion. He said that County Manager Steve Wyatt made the presentation, and the proposed general budget comes to $112,489,760. Moyer said there is a statutory revenue neutral tax rate of 46.2. This means that it is revenue neutral, but it is under the state formula. Moyer said that the budget proposal clearly gave the schools much less than they had asked for, and the board will have to look at that. He said the budget also asked for a significant compensation plan for county employees. He said they will also have to look at Blue Ridge Community College, and their place in the budget. He said there will be another meeting to discuss the strategic and capital plans, and how they tie in with the budget, and that will take place on May 14th. He said that on May 21st they will have a meeting to look at the budget more closely, and then there will be a public hearing concerning the budget on May 24th. Moyer said the board hoped to adopt a budget at their regular meeting on June 4th.
COUNTY SHOULD LOOK AT WELLNESS PROGRAM
The wellness program for county employees was one item that was discussed when the Henderson County Board of Commissioners met Monday night. County Commission Vice Chairman Charlie Messer told WHKP News that this program is something that needs to be looked at because of the rising cost of health care. He said that maybe nurses and other medical personnel could be made available for county employees. He said that it would be important to look at the numbers that would be involved in the program.
HEDRICK MURDER INVESTIGATION STILL ONGOING
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department is still investigating the murder of Katherine Tracy Hedrick according to Henderson County Sheriff's Department Public Affairs Director Joe Johnson. He told WHKP News that nothing else has happened since the arrest of Buford Snoddy on Monday evening. He said that a lot of investigation, and man hours led up to that arrest. Johnson said that the investigation is still ongoing, but that charges may be brought against others in the case, and hopefully that information will be released soon.
COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE LOOKS AT DAMAGE
North Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler was in Henderson County Wednesday looking at crop damage that was done during the freeze on Easter weekend. He told WHKP News that he met with growers and nurserymen to look at the damage, and try to decide what could be done to help them. He said that he hoped to add the freeze to the agriculture disaster bill that was in congress. He said that he had spoken with Congressman Shuler, and Congressman Mcentire, and they are going to work to make that happen.
APPLE FESTIVAL WILL GO ON AS PLANNED
The Western North Carolina Apple Festival will be held this year as always according to Apple Festival President Todd Sharp. He told WHKP News that the growers will not have to adhere to normal rules about where they buy there apples locally. He said they can import apples and sell them. He also said that growers will be able to sell other crops as well as apples since the apple crop will not be abundant. He said that in the past the rules have said that 75 percent of booth sales must come from apples, but that is not possible this year.
APPLE CROP LOOKS BETTER THAN EXPECTED
Things look better than expected for local apple growers according to Marvin Owings with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. He told WHKP News that after looking at some orchards, things do look more promising. He said that while the Romes do look good, the Ginger Gold, and Honey Crisp, which are popular for the apple festival are not doing well. Owings did say that there will be some Galas, and that is the top seller at the Apple Festival. He said the growers have to get through what is called the June drop to see how much fruit will be left, and what the quality will be. He said that growers may buy apples from markets in Pennsylvania, and Virginia this year.
HHS BANDS WILL PERFORM AT KENNEDY CENTER IN 2008
The Hendersonville High School symphonic and concert bands have been selected to perform at the Kennedy Center in May of 2008 according to Hendersonville High School band director Fran Shelton. She told WHKP News that they are one of five high school bands that were selected to perform, and they are the first group from North Carolina to perform at the Kennedy Center. She said that they will be taking 100 students, and in addition to the Kennedy Center, the bands will also perform at outdoor concerts in Washington. She said the performance at the Kennedy Center will start with the Symphonic band, and then the concert band will join them, but the outdoor concerts will feature the bands separately.
ANDREA NOW A SUBTROPICAL SYSTEM
The first named tropical system of the season was upgraded from a tropical storm to a subtropical system yesterday morning according to Harry Geripetritis who is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Greer, South Carolina. He told WHKP News that as of yesterday morning the storm was located 140 miles southwest of Savannah, and it was slowly moving west. He said the storm would approach Georgia and Florida within the next couple of days. He said that our area would see a continued flow of moisture from the system that would bring clouds, and only a slight chance of showers.
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK STARTS MAY 20TH
Hurricane Preparedness week begins May 20th according to Greg Romano who is with the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida. He told WHKP News that this is a week that is set aside to educate people about being prepared for hurricanes. He said that people should remember that it only takes one storm to make things very difficult. Romano said the best thing to do is to have a plan of action. He said this should include discussing the hazards that may effect a home during a storm such as flooding, storm surge, or wind. He also said that people should think about inland flooding, and high winds. In addition to those things, Romano said that people should also plan an escape route, and a place to meet if a hurricane hits, and they should also have an out of state contact that everyone can get in touch with, and notify that they are okay. Lastly, he said that people should prepare a survival kit that includes things such as medicine, and they should have enough supplies to last for a week. Romano said that the new director of the Hurricane Center has reminded the staff on several occasions about the importance of educating people about these storms. He said the outlook for the 2007 hurricane season will be announced on May 22nd, and that they are expecting an active hurricane season this year, because there is no El Nino right now, and that can prevent storms from happening as it did in 2006.
LOCAL RED CROSS WORKERS SENT TO KANSAS
The Henderson County Chapter of the American Red Cross has sent two workers to Kansas to help with tornado relief according to Mike Williams who is the director of the Henderson County chapter. He told WHKP News that local red cross workers are shocked and saddened by what happened. He said that Nelda Weeks, who is a nurse, was sent out on Monday along with Ron Simpson, who was sent out to take care of case work. He said the nice thing about the Red Cross is that if a disaster happened here, workers from other parts of the country would come to help us. He said the Red Cross works in a reciprocal arrangement. Williams said they may send more workers soon.
EDERLY WOMAN FOUND AT CAMP TON-A-WANDA
The Henderson County Sheriff's Office working in conjunction with several other local agencies found 62-year-old Katherine Mary Anderson at around 10:15 Wednesday morning according to Henderson County Sheriff's Department Public Affairs Director Joe Johnson. He told WHKP News that Anderson was found in a field on the Camp Ton-A-Wanda property,not far from her home. and that she was not injured. He said the search took around 12 hours.
MORE BEARS HAVE BEEN SEEN IN OUR AREA THIS SPRING
There has been an increase in the number of bears that have been seen in Western North Carolina this spring according to Mike Carroway, a Biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. He told WHKP News that it is not unusual to see bears this time of year, because they are coming out of their dens. He said that there have been situations recently where bears have killed small dogs, but he would not classify these instances as attacks. He said the reason for this is because in both situations, the dogs were running toward a female bear that had cubs, and she was trying to defend them. He said the bears had been in the yard after bird feeders. Carroway said the best thing people can do is get rid of things that attract bears if they hear that one has been seen in their neighborhood. He said some of these things can include bird feeders, pet food, and garbage. He said if someone sees a bear they should not panic, but simply go inside, and leave the bear alone.
BOB CALDWELL RETIRES FROM WLOS AFTER 41 YEARS
Well known WLOS weather man Bob Caldwell will soon be leaving WLOS T.V. after 41 years. He told WHKP News that he officially starred in television in 1966 after doing some work in the business overseas for the Armed Forces Network, and doing 7 years of radio before that. He said that after retirement he and his wife will open a fly fishing school for women in Yancey County. He said that is not complete yet, but it is well on its way. He said that he will continue to do the Outdoors features for WLOS on Friday nights, along with yearly specials, and some commercial production. He said he has a lot of memories from his career, but he especially loved being a professional clown. He also loved showing off the beauty of our area in his Outdoors features.
NORTH CAROLINA LICENSE TAGS GET A MAKEOVER
The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles recently began distributing slightly different license tags according to Marge Howell who is a spokesperson for the DMV in Raleigh. She spoke with WHKP News, and said that the plates still have the same first in flight design. She said the design cannot be changed without approval from the general assembly. She said the major change in the plates is that the letters and numbers are now red instead of blue. She said this will help the security of drivers, and it will help law enforcement identify tags, because the old ones were no longer readable. She said this applies to standard and personal vehicle tags.
SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATING FIRE AND DEATH
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department is currently working in conjunction with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation on the case of a house fire that occurred at 357 Bradford Hills Drive. The Mills River Fire Department responded to the scene at around 3:00 P.M. Monday afternoon, and controlled the fire so that the area would be safe for investigators. The Sheriff's Department is also investigating the death of 41-year-old Thomas George Manarino.
LOCAL MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING PHONE CALLS
The Henderson County Sheriff's Department arrested 53-year-old John Bryant Russell Senior for making threatening phone calls to Arvin Meritor and the Hendreson County E-911 center. Russell was arrested at his home where the calls had been made. He was arrested without incident, and charged with three misdemeanor counts of making threatening phone calls. He is currently in the Hendreson County Detention Center under $6,000 secured bond.
SECOND SUSPECT CHARGED IN HEDRICK MURDER
A second suspect has been charged in the murder of Katherine Tracy Hedrick. She was found shot to death in the home of Buford Snoddy in April. Snoody was arrested last week, and charged with her murder. His son, 30-year-old Edward Snoddy, has now been charged as an accessory after the fact. Sheriff Rick Davis reported that a 30-caliber rifle had been recovered. Davis said no other arrests will be made in the case.
POLICE DEPARTMENT REGRETS INCIDENT
The Henderson County Police Department inadvertently searched the wrong residence while trying to serve a warrant early on the morning of Saturday May 12th. Members of the tactical unit entered the wrong residence. Chief Donnie Parks said the department does regret this what happened, and that appropriate actions are being taken.
RESIDENT TELLS WHAT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY
The Hendersonville Police Department inadvertently entered the home of Sandra Braswell while attempting to serve a warrant on Saturday May 12th. Braswell told WHKP news that she was sitting in her living room when officers ran in, and threw smoke bombs, and made she and others in the house lie down on the floor. She said they put handcuffs on some of them, but not everyone. She said that at one point, one of the children got up to go see about her little sister, and the officer ordered her back on the floor. She also said that an officer did have a gun to the head of one person in the house. She said that finally the officers realized that they were at the wrong house, and began to apologize, but she said that one officer did remain aggressive.
OLD TOWN BANK INVESTORS' MEETING THURSDAY
Old Town Bank will be locating an office in Haywood County according to bank President Everett Stiles. He told WHKP news that a meeting will be held at 6:00 P.M. on Thursday evening at the Cedars for anyone who may be interested in investing. He said the office in Haywood county will be the initial office in our area, and this would be a great opportunity for investors.
PLANNING BOARD AWAITING SITE PLAN
The Hendersonville Planning Board is currently awaiting the final site plan for the Oak and Grove condominiums at the corner of 6th Avenue East and Grove Street according to Hendersonville Planning Director Sue Anderson. She told WHKP news that the project will be a 20 unit multifamily building. She said the planning board approved the project earlier this year as did city council. She said the preliminary site plan has been approved, and now the planning board is waiting for the final site plan so that it can be reviewed and approved.
CITY PLANNING BOARD WAITING FOR CORRECTIONS
The Hendersonville Planning Board is waiting for corrections on the final site plan for the Walgreens drug store on 25 North according to Hendersonville Planning Director Sue Anderson. She told WHKP news that the planning board reviewed the final site plan and changes needed to be made. She said they have not received a revised plan yet.
FOUR SEASONS HOSPICE OPENS NEW WING
The Elizabeth House held a grand opening for its new McGrady wing this past week according to Cherry Meyer who is with Four Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care. She said Elizabeth House now holds 18 beds, and that it helps patients with symptom management. She said they will help patients with hospice benefits regardless of their ability to pay.
SINK HONORED AT RECEPTION LAST WEEK
Blue Ridge Community College President Dr. David Sink was honored at a special reception last Wednesday according to Leeanna Haney who is with Blue Ridge Community College. She said that faculty and students had kind words for doctor sink, and gave him several things to honor his years of service at the college. She said people were also their from different clubs that Dr. Sink belongs to. She said his retirement date is set for June 1st. Haney said that Molly Parkhill, Dean of Continuing Education has been named as the interim president of BRCC. She said Parkhill has been with the college for 20 years, and has held an administrative position for most of that time.
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