January - February 2019

Our Welcome to Gerton sign shows three things: the new plants that now flourish under the sign (thanks to Shannon Frye), the fresh greens with red bows welcoming Christmas to our community, and the remains of the season's first big snow, which occurred on December 8-9.

President's Note

     On behalf of the Board of Directors, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a Happy New Year.  May 2019 fill your home with happiness, good health, and prosperity.  Prior to looking ahead, I would be remiss in not recalling some of the recent events of 2018.

     First, thank you to all for supporting our Holiday Outreach Program.  Your thoughtfulness generated 58 gifts for the children of families  who may not have otherwise enjoyed a Christmas surprise.  Again, thank you.

     Second, thank you to all who responded to our annual Membership Drive.  To date 50 residents have forwarded their $10 per person dues for 2019.  In addition, many of you included an extra donation  for which we are truly grateful.  If you have not renewed your membership yet, please consider remitting a check for $10 per person to the UHNGCC, PO Box 222, Gerton, NC 28735.  Remember we are a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and any gift, including your dues, is tax deductible.Thank you for your consideration.  Hope you'll join us, and if able, please add your own expression of generosity.

     On to 2019.  Our first covered dish/ meeting of the new year is scheduled for Tuesday, January 22, 6:30 pm.  The Program is designed to answer questions relative to your Real Estate Taxes.  We have invited the Henderson County Tax Assessor and two of his Assistants to present a Program that will explain how your Property Tax is computed, why it goes up, and in some cases down.  There will be ample time following the presentation for questions and answers.

     Other business to be covered at the January 22nd meeting includes a review of our 2018 revenue/ spending and a look at our 2019 proposed budget.  Hope you'll be able to join us.

     Happy New Year,
              Jack 

Calendar of Events

January 1, Tuesday - New Year's Day. Polar dip at Lake Lure

January 21, Monday - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Banks and Post Office Closed

January 22, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.  Community Covered Dish. NOTE DATE CHANGE.

Program: Henderson County Tax Assessor

February 19, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Community Covered Dish. Program: TBA

The ECHO is published bi-monthly throughout the year by the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club. You can access the online blog at www.gertonecho.blogspot.com or pick up a paper copy at the Gerton Post Office. News is welcome; pictures, too. Please send to Margaret Whitt (margaret.whitt@du.edu). Photographers for this issue: Margaret Whitt, Syble Freemanm Susie Bancer, Russell Anders.

Officers for 2018: Jack Bancer, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice-President; Sylvia Sane, Treasurer; Susie Bancer, Secretary; Board: Jean Bradley, Karen Owensby, Margaret Whitt, Syble Freeman, Stan Mobley.

WNCCommunity Luncheon Annual Awards

UHNGCC: Community of Promise ($1,000)

From Left: Jean Bradley, Sylvia Sane, Margaret Whitt, Lynn Morehead, Susie Bancer, Jack Bancer, Jim Earnhardt, Lumpy Lambert, of Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino and Hotel and a member of the WNCCommunities Board of Directors

Representatives from 64 clubs of the western counties of North Carolina gathered at the Doubletree Hilton in Biltmore to recognize 69 years of community achievement on Saturday, November 3. Over $38,000 had been solicited from Harrah's Cherokee, Biltmore Farms, Duke Energy, First Citizens Bank, the McClure Fund, Farm Bureau, Farm Credit, Wells Fargo, and New Belgium Brewing to distribute among those clubs who participated in this year's competition.

The money was to be divided this way: 21 clubs would be awarded $250 each for Participating status; 25 clubs would receive $500 each for Engaged designation; 15 clubs would receive $1,000 each for Community of Promise; and the top award Community of Distinction would go to three clubs.

UHNGCC this year was one of the 15 cited for COMMUNITY OF PROMISE and a $1,000 cash prize.The other communities joining UHNGCC as clubs of PROMISE include: Caney Fork, Holly Springs, Spring Creek, Tipton Hill, Leicester, Sandy Mush, Spring Mountain, Big Y, Fine's Creek, Ellenboro Women's Club, Dunn's Rock, Lake Toxaway, Cedar Mountain, and Deep Gap Ruritan.

During the presentation of the various awards, new practices were highlighted so that clubs might learn what is going on with others. UHNGCC was the only Community of Promise in Henderson County. Here is what we were noted for in the presentation:

"Many new programs, activities and fundraisers took place at the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club this past year. A new 50/50 raffle increased monthly donations for the club’s expenses by infusing new energy into the fundraising process. For the first time at their 4th of July celebration, Upper Hickory Nut Gorge provided old-fashioned games for kids and adults and offered prizes. They updated an old plan and expanded who can be eligible for their college scholarships and gave two $500 awards this year.  The club offers wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and scooters on loan for those who need short-term help. In recognition of their achievement last year to become FIREWISE certified, the community gathered this May to accept their plaque from Wildlife Mitigation Forester, Justin Query. Upper Hickory Nut Gorge is doing all they can do to be ready for future fire incidents and are organizing events to inform the community of their responsibility to be prepared."

Last Litter Sweep of 2018

From left: Jean Bradley, Dawn Loftus, Brent Fodera, Sylvia Sane, Jim Sane, Gayle Morris

The last litter sweep of the year took place on Saturday, November 17. The group collected 8 bags of trash for recycling and 6 bags of trash for pick up. Those who participated were Gloria Anders, Jack and Susie Bancer, Jean Bradley, Jim Earnhardt, Brent Fodera, Dawn Loftus, Gayle Morris, Jami Lynn, Steve Ringenberg, and Jim and Sylvia Sane. Thanks to the good turnout, the work was completed in under two hours. This was the largest number of workers and the most amount of trash of the year.

And Jami Lynn and Steve Ringenberg

Community Thanksgiving Meal

In our annual celebration of Thanksgiving, we had 45 neighbors that shared a traditional turkey-and-its-trimmings meal. Jim Earnhardt provided the turkey, and Karen Owensby provided the dressing. The rest of us brought the sides. Thanks to the board for decorating and preparing the room.And there was plenty of food to go around.

Russ Anders led the installation services for the new officers: Jack Bancer will serve his second year as President. Jim Earnhardt will be Vice-President. Susie Bancer, secretary; Sylvia Sane, treasurer. The new board members will be Karen Owensby, Jean Bardley, Stan Mobley, Syble Freeman, and Margaret Whitt.

Here, Jane Lawson and Lorrie Erskine greet each other. Our dinners are a time for neighbors to catch up on news and happenings--and welcome new people into our community.

Jim Peione, a relative newcomer, won the 50/50 Raffle and took home over $50. Our monthly raffle has proven to be a popular (and quick) money maker for the club, earning the club over $500 this year. 

Winter Workshop: Greens and Red Bows on All Street Signs off 74-A through Gerton

On what turned out to be December perfect weather, ten neighbors gathered at the clubhouse to get ready for the Christmas holidays. Russell and Gloria Anders delivered a large amount of various greens to the clubhouse. Jean Bradley was ready with plastic tarps already down on the floor and over the new table tops. The following showed up to create the greenery and add the new red bows: Lynn Morehead, Sarah Gayle, Margaret Whitt, Jim Sane, Sylvia Sane, Jim Earnhardt, Mary Kay McAdams, Sheila Padgett. 

from left: Mary Kay McAdams, Jim Earnhardt, Sarah Gayle, Sylvia Sane, Lynn Morehead, Jean Bradley, and Sheila Padgett

Mac McAdams pulled the big Christmas tree from the closet and got it set up along with the timer. Every night from now through the holidays, the tree will light up from 6-10 p.m.

 Once the greens were ready to go, Jim Sane took all 41 to hang up on the road signs that go through Gerton. Plus extras for the club sign, the entry signs, the post office, and Laughing Waters. 

Mary Kay, Lynn, and Margaret worked on the garland with red bows on the front piping, while Sheila decorated her store front.

Mary Kay and Lynn begin the twisting and turning necessary to get the garland to stay where it is placed.

 Jim Earnhardt made three wreaths from fresh greens for the center front doors. Finally, we pulled out the new tree from last year, and got it set up. This tree will be lit whenever someone is in the clubhouse.

Seasonal color adds lift to barren trees. With thanks to Jim Sane who hung all 40+ greens to the community.

Annual Christmas Party

On December 18, 48 neighbors gathered for our annual party of the season. We have a meal of finger foods (this was started long ago to make clean-up a bit easier!), followed by a gift exchange of gag gifts, which have gotten less funny and more delightful -- in other words, more people are happy with their surprise choice. This year, the kids handed out the wrapped presents and gifts were also provided for Hickory Nut Outreach, as well. We sang Christmas carols, accompanied by Karen Owensby on our wonderfully out-of-tune piano, which worked well as we made our own "joyful noise." Then a new favorite tradition: the singing and acting out of "Twelve Days of Christmas."

Neighbors gather, chat and set out their contribution to our meal.

 Susie Bancer chats with John Solomon and Sam about gifts for the kids.

The Board is spread -- we had plenty of tasty morsels from which to select and sample. Desserts, too.

This year each of us got a star with a number, which indicated what day of Christmas you were to stand and sing. River was the one person with number ONE, which caused him to have the biggest role of all: A partridge in a pear tree. He offered many variations on the tune! Above, Danya Salos prepares to launch into "seven swans aswimming."

Bearwallow Baptist Begins its Holiday Decorations...

Joan Erskine helps hang wreaths at Bearwallow Baptist Church on November 29, marking a good beginning for the Christmas season.

Beautification Project Prototype

Here is the crew that helped move the new flower box to its permanent location: From left: Jim Earnhardt, Jami Linn, Steve Ringenberg, Jack Bancer, Mike Hamlin, and Mac McAdams

Opportunity to Contribute to Chimes Restoration at Bearwallow Baptist

The Bearwallow chimes have been silent for some time....and now we welcome them back: at 9 in the morning, noon, and 6 in the evening. The "Horn" on all four external speakers blew out and the cost came to nearly $1,000 for repair. The church would appreciate donations for this expense. Checks can be made out to Bearwallow Baptist and marked for CHIMES, so that the money can be appropriately allocated.

The Chimes are a part of the church's gift to the community and all who drive by--at these appointed times--receive a lift from hearing the songs or the chiming of the hour. The locals who can hear the chiming from their homes are especially fortunate. 

November - December 2018

Fall colors came late in 2018, but finally...a touch of the season!

Update and More from Our UHNGCC President, Jack Bancer

Borrowing a phrase from the General Electric Corporation marketing program...."Progress, our most important product"...the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club is doing just that.  We have made substantial "Progress" on two open items.  Actually it's more than "Progress," we have completed both of them...new Rain Gutters and a prototype Planter Box to beautify the front of the building.

The  Gutter Project was completed October 22.  We solicited bids from three companies.  A-1 Gutter was the low bidder at $2871.  That included repairing 6 feet of water damaged soffit on the northeast corner of the building.  After removing the old gutter on the back of the building, we discovered another 60 feet of damaged wood, virtually the length of the entire patio.  The culprit:  years of undetected water intrusion from a leaky gutter system.  That repair work was another $600; it had to be  done.  Last Friday's day-long rain put the system to the test. I watched it work; job well done, A-1 Gutter.

Some call the front of our building "vanilla"; others, plain. We got the message and are working a program to rectify  that.  A 12-foot prototype Planter Box has been installed adjacent to the front walkway.  It contains 2 Nandinas, a dwarf Alberta Pine, and seasonal flowers.  In addition, we have painted the trim around the front windows a dark gray that matches the Planter Box.  If you  approve the prototype at our November meeting, we will move forward with the balance of the project that includes 4 additional Planter Boxes and a fresh coat of gray paint on the east end of building.  Look forward to your comments and support for continuation of this project.  Working on a final estimate, but anticipate the cost to be about $2500.

Those who helped put the box in place included Jim Earnhardt, Stan Mobley, Mike Hamblin, Steve Ringenberg, Mac McAdams, and Jack Bancer. Susie Bancer planted and arranged the flowers.

To maintain our annual Scenic Highway designation we must complete one more Litter Sweep.  In an effort to get more involvement, we have switched our traditional weekday Litter Sweep to Saturday, November 17, 10 a.m.  Hope you'll be able to spend an hour with us to complete this important task.   Gloria Anders will post a reminder communication with details.

Mark your calendar for our traditional Thanksgiving Dinner, Tuesday, November 22. Jim Earnhardt is bringing the turkey again this year; Karen Owensby is making the dressing, and the rest is up to you.  Somebody please bring a Pumpkin Pie.  Hope you'll join us for dinner and the installation of our Officers and Board for the 2019 calendar year.

Regards,

    Jack

Calendar of Events

November 3, Saturday, noon - WNCCommunities regional awards luncheon and presentation of winning communities. 

November 6, Tuesday, - Voting Day for the Mid-term Elections.

November 17, Saturday, 10 a.m. - Litter Sweep Day. Give an hour of your time in the final litter pick-up of 2018.

November 20, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Turkey and dressing provided; bring sides.

November 22, Thursday - Thanksgiving Day

December 3, Monday, 10 a.m. - Christmas Greenery Workshop. Come help prepare the seasonal bows that decorate our street sign through Gerton and help decorate the clubhouse for the season.

December 18, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - Covered Dish and annual Christmas Party. Bring a $5 gift to share with another. Join in the holiday songs and participate in our fun 12 Days of Christmas celebratory singing.

December 25, Tuesday - CHRISTMAS -- all day long!

December 31, Monday - Happy New Year's Eve!


The ECHO is published bi-monthly throughout the year by the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club. You can access the online blog at www.gertonecho.blogspot.com or pick up a paper copy at the Gerton Post Office. News is welcome; pictures, too. Please send to Margaret Whitt (margaret.whitt@du.edu). Photographers for this issue: Jessica Whitt, Margaret Whitt, Sylvia Sane, Susie Bancer, Russell Anders, Mike Hamlin.

Officers for 2018: Jack Bancer, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice-President; Sylvia Sane, Treasurer; Susie Bancer, Secretary; Board: Jean Bradley, Karen Owensby, Jim Sane.

GertonFest X - Made $2384

The brainchild of Claudia and Mel Freeman, GertonFest has been our local celebration for now ten years! We have changed activities--added new ones, removed old ones--but some parts have remained consistent--always a breakfast and later in the day a BBQ. Always a home-baked sale of various sweets. And always a silent auction. This year we had over 75 participating merchants and restaurants--with some special items from local residents. Those who supported our silent auction, the largest part of our fundraising endeavor netted us $1,100.

Thanks to Fairview: Smokey and the Pig, Hot Dog King, Sonic, Mountain Mojo, Silas's Produce, Food Lion, Local Joint, Mr. K's Bookstore, Nachos and Beer, J & S Cafeteria, Angelo's.

Chimney Rock: Bubba O'Leary's, Nachito's, Hickory Nut Antique Store, Manual Woodworkers (Gerton), River Watch Bar and Grill, Esmeralda, Medina's Bistro, Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine, Hickory Nut Gorge Brewery.

Lake Lure: Lake Lure Tours,  El Lago Mexican Restaurant, Lake Lure Golf, Lake Lure Inn and Spa, Larkin's on the Lake.

Hendersonville: Mountain Fresh Orchards, Day in the Country, Fireside Restaurant, Whole Foods Market, Village Green Antique Mall, Pet Smart, Flat Rock Playhouse, Ace Hardware, Home Depot. 

We started the day on Saturday, September 1, with a community breakfast. Above neighbors meet to catch up and enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet of pancakes, fruit, sausages, orange juice, and coffee. With thanks to Russell Anders, Gloria Anders, Ted Roberts, and Mack McAdams. We made $299.

With thanks to the following bakers, who provided the cakes, pies, quiche, cookies, brownies, and candy: Karen Owensby, Annie McNair, Sylvia Sane, Jean Bradley, Helen Brown, Ruth Hudson, Margaret Whitt, Mary Kay McAdams, Susan McMurray, Toni Barkett, Anne Bourne, Toni Eastman, Bonnie Moore, Jane Lawson, Gloria Anders, Roberta Pope, Melissa Grindle, Margaret Colwell, Joan Poole, Pat Davis, Anastasia Walsh, Sheila Padgett, Claudia Freeman, Jami Linn, Joan Erskine, Susie Bancer, Syble Freeman, Eileen Farrell, Lana Roberts. And thanks to Jean Bradley and Mary Kay McAdams for making the calls and setting up the tables. We made $347.

The second annual Corn Hole tournament was held and Danya Salos (back to camera), the returning champion, held onto her title, this year joined by teammate Jim Doucette (not pictured). Afternoon games also included badminton with Noah Considine as the singles winner and two doubles matches with Noah and Ethan Considine as one doubles winners, and Noah and Julia Considine as the second doubles winners.

 McGuffey Ridge Trivia Team returned to defend their title from last year. From Left: David Evans, Susan McMurray, Maryanne Adoryan and Don Adoryan.

In our first ever Bocce tournament, the best players Bob and Kathy MacDonald, who stopped by looking for a trail to hike, returned to play, but left before the final round--therefore, the announced winners were Margaret Whitt and Jim Earnhardt.

We closed the day with a BBQ of pork and chicken -- your choice. With thanks to Billy Gaines,  Linda Gaines, Joan Erskine, and Ted Roberts. We made $638.

September Meeting

Hurricane Florence interrupted our planned program speaker, Karen Owensby, who was going to give us presentation on her recent trip to Prague, but Karen is a team member of the crew that was dispatched to the eastern part of the state to help in the wake of Hurricane Florence. So, we had a general discussion of business as we look ahead to the holidays.

Dave MacDonald won the 50/50 Raffle and took home $50 for the winning ticket. We had 32 neighbors gather on a post-Florence evening for food and fellowship together.

Fall Litter Sweep

From left: Jim Earhnardt, Margaret Whitt, and Karen Owensby. Russ Anders, taking the picture.

We had a small turnout for our quarterly litter sweep on Tuesday, September 25, in the rain. As usual, Jean Bradley organized us from the inside of the clubhouse--preparing the bags, the orange vests, the water for the crew upon return. We had Jim  Earnhardt, Karen Owensby, Margaret Whitt, and Russ Anders for pick up along 74A. Two packed bags were collected--even down to a good number of cigarette butts. New grabbers were helpful for items just out of reach. We also had two packed bags of recycled trash, which now have to be taken to our homes for pick up. The more people we have helping, the sooner and the more efficiently the job can be done. About an hour is the time expended when we have about 7 or 8 helping out! Next litter sweep will be held on Saturday, November 17, at 10 a.m. Hope to see you there!

October Meeting

Early arrivals mill about and chat with one another before dinner. We had 32 neighbors in attendance, sharing good food and good talk.

 Coloring books and kids' games and toys are now available for use by our younger set before our covered dish meals. Above, Jane and son Kai spend some quality time coloring. 

 Raffle winner Sheila Padgett takes home $53 as the October winner. Our 50/50 raffle at each monthly meeting continues to be a successful money raiser for the club. 

George Gabler of Goldsmith, Molis & Gray, Certified Public Accountants, was the program speaker. His subject was the differences the new tax laws will make in the preparation of our 2018 Income Tax Forms. A helpful handout showing the differences between 2017 and 2018 was distributed to all. The biggest change to keep in mind is that the standard deduction for filing SINGLE has gone from $6,350 to $12,000; for MARRIED FILING JOINTLY has gone from $12,000 to $24,000.

Blue Ridge Community Class on Henderson County History Pays a Visit

Frequently, the county history class at Blue Ridge, a course designed for newcomers to the area, stops by UHNGCC for their lunch break, en route to Sherrill's Inn. Thanks to the Sanes for always being the welcoming community representatives. Sylvia served coffee and cookies; Jim answered questions and gave them the naming story of Gerton and some statistics on homes. Below, the group of about 30 enjoy their brief stay for lunch on Saturday, October 20. 

Neighborhood News

Potter Mike Hamlin won Best in Show at the Weaverville Art in Autumn Show on September 15. Along with this top honor, Mike received a cash prize of $1,000. Congratulations, Mike! As we move closer to the holidays, you might want to consider a gift of pottery to someone on your list. Mike's pottery can be purchased at Woolworth Walk, Trackside Studios in the River Arts District, The Hub in Fairview, New Moon Marketplace, and Mountain Nest in Black Mountain.

 On a beautiful early fall day, some folks stop for lunch at our Little Library benches. They could be having some Hot Dixie Dogs from our local Gerton vendors--the Nappis.

On October 6, folks set up for the second wedding in two years at the Chestnut Hills greenery. Minutes before 3 p.m., the wedding start time, the skies opened up and down came the rain---which, thankfully, only lasted a few minutes.

Long-Time Gerton Neighbor Dies

Ellen Gilkey Freeman, 68, passed away after a lengthy illness on October 9. She is survived by husband Sam (Sonny) Freeman. Ellen was born on December 9, 1950, in Nelsonville, Ohio. She worked for Van Wingerden greenhouses in Hendersonville for ten years; then Manual Woodworkers in Gerton for 10 years. She and Sam married in September 2008. There is no living family on Ellen's side, only Sam and his family. Services were held graveside at Bearwallow Cemetery at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 28. Revs. Don Freeman and Bobby Dees officiated.

In lieu of flowers, checks may be made out to Bearwallow Baptist Church and marked for “Sonny and Ellen Freeman Fund." This money will be used for Sonny for things he will need. He has a burial plot in Bearwallow Baptist cemetery, but no headstone. There may be medical bills from Ellen, and Sam may require health care in the future. 

                  REMEMBERING ELLEN FREEMAN 

   Ellen Massey Freeman and I were both Ohioans, so Ohio was a bond we shared.  I came to know her on the few occasions when I stopped to give her rides as she was thumbing, either on her way to or from Fairview. That’s when she’d tell me stories, make her observations, share opinions.  If she didn’t get a ride sometimes, she told me, winter hiking was quicker the whole way because the snakes had gone to bed, and she could take the mountain trails instead—they bisected the 33 curves.  Summers she carried a walking stick Sonny made her to fend with, and to help keep balance.                  
   She loved doing word puzzles, the kind where you circle the words discovered in blocks of capital letters—sideways, upside down, crosswise.  If anyone gave her a puzzle book, it didn’t take long for her to finish all the pages. Playing solitaire was another one of her joys, the cards curled with age.  (Why did I not remember to give her one of our many unused decks?)  She told the funniest stories, mostly jokes on herself or another person.  “I just get prettier and sexier every day,” she once told me.  Not a bad morale booster—right?  (I try to say the same of myself now, neither attribute true at age 85.)  Her employers wondered at her physical stamina—she’d walk to and from her long-time job at the Hendersonville greenhouse where she carried and toted tirelessly, according to the account.  Another employer I know said he wished every worker he’d hired worked as hard as Ellen did --she seemed to be all over the place at once, with as much pep at the day’s end as at the beginning.  
   She was kind, especially to animals—in all kinds of weather, she walked her black dogs on a leash outside the house to avoid their being hit on the highway.  When a warehouse co-worker wept over a lost pet, Ellen bought a sympathy card, collected signatures and a little money to tuck into the envelope.
   She grieved for a newborn baby she’d lost, and for a twin sister she’d lost touch with in the little Ohio River town where they’d grown up, or until they left home.  She’d moved to North Carolina with a man who’d eventually abandoned her, and then Sonny came along, and somehow, his house close by the highway seemed the safest choice.
    Her thick beautiful hair with its natural waves pleased her.  She didn’t mind when she lost all her teeth—the artificial ones hurt too much.  At church one time, she’d overheard someone whisper that she wasn’t wearing a slip—and it embarrassed her.  A proud stubborn woman, the dresses someone had kindly provided for Ellen and Sonny’s wedding day she chose not to wear.  But she was deeply, deeply pleased by the gifts people had brought.  And she laughed about the wedding cake—with the replicas of a little bride dragging the groom across the icing’s surface to the tiny altar.
   That Ellen lived a hard life is an understatement.  That she made choices not good or healthful we all could see.  To a degree, don’t we all.  But we can know she did find joy in little things; she
held her own—a pioneer really, stubborn, strong, self-sufficient as she could manage, until she couldn’t anymore.   We will remember Ellen as an original, and now, wish her well and kindly. 
                                                                                  --Barbara Earnhardt

September - October 2018

Cast of Gerton Little Theater production of "Ellie, Ellie!" from left, first row: Eva and Diego Infanzon (violinists at intermission), RuthAnn Nappi (Ellie); J.D. Nappi (Sam Diamond), Karen Owensby (Charlotte, the former wife), Helen Brown (Playwright, director, local treasure!). top row: Zane Moore (Robert "Bo" Manning), Jim Sane (Barry Russell); Freddie Ann Nappi (Sophia, trophy wife), Debbie Hill (Joan Russell), Gloria Anders (Rosita), Jason Hernandez (Hector), Margaret Whitt (non-verbal Mrs. Russell)

GertonFest X

The 10th annual celebration of small town life will take place on Saturday, September 1. We will begin our day together with a community breakfast at 8 a.m. ($6 adult; $3, under 10). This year Russell Anders will prepare a surprise as part of the morning meal. 

Jean Bradley and Mary Kay McAdams will organize the home baked goods sale -- think now about picking up something for yourself, a neighbor or friend or relative! We will have cakes, cookies, brownies, candy, bread, pies, muffins, and some surprises--including a jug of Syble Freeman's homemade maple syrup. The sale will start at 8 a.m. and last til all is gone.

The silent auction will be ready to go at 8 a.m. with about 50 items and gift cards from local merchants -- from Fairview, Asheville, Hendersonville, Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and Gerton. Sign up will continue all day until the close at 6 p.m., when Jack Bancer will announce the winners.

In the afternoon, we will have tournaments in badminton, corn hole, and bocci ball. These outside events on the greens area of Chestnut Hills will be followed by Trivia Bowl and Bingo with some sweet prizes for the winners. Then BBQ Dinner of pork and chicken prepared by Billy Gaines and crew. Tentative times for the afternoon events: 

12 noon.  Corn hole

1 p.m.  Badminton

2 p.m. Bocci

3 p.m. Trivia Bowl

4 p.m. Bingo

5 p.m. BBQ meal

Come for part or all of the day. T-shirts will be on sale as well - beginning on Friday morning.

The ECHO is published bi-monthly throughout the year by the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club. You can access the online blog at www.gertonecho.blogspot.com or pick up a paper copy at the Gerton Post Office. News is welcome; pictures, too. Please send to Margaret Whitt (margaret.whitt@du.edu). Photographers for this issue: Frankie Tipton, Margaret Whitt, Sylvia Sane, Susie Bancer.

Officers for 2018: Jack Bancer, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice-President; Sylvia Sane, Treasurer; Susie Bancer, Secretary; Board: Jean Bradley, Karen Owensby, Jim Sane.

President's Note

As I began thinking about this missive, it occurred to me that two-thirds of the calendar year has passed.  A heartfelt thank you to all for helping us accomplish so much during the past eight  months.

Our 2018 dues paying membership has grown to 75 Gerton households, a 15% increase over last year.  Our plan is continued communication with all Gerton residents in an effort to increase our membership again in 2019.

 The community involvement in this year's activities has been outstanding.  New ideas and increased participation has come to the fore.  Thank you to all who participated in our successful events--Sale on the Trail, TeaCup Tea, July 4th, Litter Sweep, "Ellie, Ellie!" and GertonFest X.

 As we press on to the 4th quarter, we still have some work to complete.  There's litter to be swept, Officers and Board Members to be nominated and elected, plans to be made for Thanksgiving, Christmas and our Annual Membership drive.  We'll be asking for your help.

 At present, we are seeking residents to join our leadership team - Officers and Board Members.  If you or anyone you think might be a good candidate, please submit his/her name to any current Board Member.  We will forward the names to our Nominating Committee for consideration.  I'm confident you'll step up to the plate, again, as we continue "to work together to build a better community." 

                                                 Jack  

Jack Bancer
jasubancer@aol.com

Calendar of Events 

September 1, Saturday - GertonFest X - 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. See Schedule above.

September 3, Monday - Labor Day

September 18, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - Covered Dish Dinner. Program: Karen Owensby will take us on a brief tour of her late summer trip to Prague.

October 16, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - Covered Dish Dinner: Program: Tax Changes for 2019, George Gabler, CPA

October 31 - Halloween 

Teachers from across the State Participate in NC State Extension Program: Forest to Classroom with Fire Focus

Forest to Classroom. Sixteen teachers from all over the state participated in an early summer seminar focusing on fire. They came to UHNGCC on June 27 for a day of listening to forest service rangers talk about fire in Buncombe and Henderson counties and to Jim Sane on the merits of a FIREWISE program.  After a lunch with neighbors from our community, they went to the Bancers' home to learn how to do a fire mitigation assessment. Afterwards, they broke into groups of four and went to four local homes--Bonnie Moore, Sarah Gayle, Jim and Sylvia Sane, and Karen Owensby--to perform what they had just learned and then passed the completed fire assessment mitigation form on to the homeowners.

The teachers, who spent their nights at the Justus Academy in Edneyville, will take what they have learned in this intensive in-the-field study back to their classrooms in the fall. All participants were impressed with the warm hospitality of Gerton and the UHNGCC.

Celebration of 4th of July

Anastasia Walsh and Susie Bancer worked to plan races, games, and contests for the kids. Pictured above are the kids who participated in three-leg races, burlap sack jumping contests, egg tosses, and water balloon tosses. Meanwhile, other neighbors enjoyed breakfast inside -- egg, cheese, and sausage biscuits prepared by Russell and Gloria Anders.

Somewhere between 80 and 100 people gathered for a cookout of burgers, hot dogs, and veggie burgers prepared by Jim Sane and Jack Bancer. Neighbors brought sides and desserts and there was plenty for all. Afterwards folks stayed for our annual Bingo games with sweet prizes of giant candy bars with surprise money duct taped to the back -- a few coins up to $20. We had over a dozen winners. The idea is to play through our prizes, which is about the same time it gets dark. Just before 9 p.m., we all meandered outside, while Patrick O'Kelley provided and set off the best fireworks show in Gerton history.  Every explosion felt like a finale. Thanks to Patrick for providing the fireworks, and to Jason Moore, who also contributed. Gerton's fire show had people pulling off the road as they made their way up from Lake Lure. People were gathered by the center itself, and over on the commons area of Chestnut Hills.

July Meeting

John Solomon and Sam lead 32 neighbors in the salute to the flag at our July 17 community dinner. 

Mike Hamlin was the 50-50 raffle winner, taking home $50 from our monthly activity. Since we began this money raiser for the club, we have had enormous financial success. What an easy way to pay for our expenses that accompany our dinners.

UHNGCC awarded two college scholarships this year: Addie Grindle, who will start her junior year at Morehead State in Kentucky, and Faith Perry (not present), who will coremntinue her studies at Blue Ridge Community College toward becoming an EMT, were each awarded $500 to help with tuition costs. 

Announcements included a call for ideas to enhance the front of the center. Please turn in your sketches to Jack Bancer. Shannon Frye has planted flowers under the sign in front of the building to bring a touch of summer floral color to the area.

 Gerton Summer Little Theater Production of "Ellie, Ellie!" Smashing Success on Last Weekend of July

With thanks to Helen Hudson Brown for writing the play, casting the play, and directing the play--she is surely one of Gerton's Local Treasures! For twenty years, she has been involved with this event that distinguishes Gerton from all other communities in the gorge. On this occasion of our 20th anniversary, we remember the original founders of THE HICKORY CREEK PLAYERS: Joan and Thom Sherwood, Michelle and Eric Perry, and RuthAnn and Fred Nappi. Since 1998, there have been many supporters of "The Players"...far too many to name here. Many thanks to all who have spent time, money, and energy to help support this fine troupe.

Those of us who look forward each year to attending the play, anticipate many more fun July weekends!

It all begins with Helen Hudson Brown....

Rosita (Gloria Anders) and Ellie (RuthAnn Nappi) accuse each other of poisoning the cookies and the flowers, but all is well at the end!

Robert (Bo) Manning (Zane Moore) is excited about the opportunity to be a "person of interest."

The unassuming and grieving former wife Charlotte (Karen Owensby) turns out to be the one who killed Charles, her former husband.

Trophy wife and new young wife of murder victim Charles, Sophia (Freddie Ann Nappi) confronts former wife about the man they both have loved.

Handyman Hector Garnto (Jason Hernandez) meets with Detective Sam Diamond (J.D. Nappi) in the detective's work to interview those persons of interest.

Barry and Joan Russell (Jim Sane and Debbie Hill) permit Detective Diamond (J.D. Nappi) to use their home as investigation headquarters.

Meanwhile, the old non-talking Lauren Russell (Margaret Whitt) has no idea what she is doing, but provides distractions during the homicide investigations.

August Meeting

 As the food is readied, people listen to news of our neighbors. We had 47 participate at our August meeting. We brought school supplies for Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach, which is always fun to do for the grandparents among us with our own grandchildren living elsewhere.

Lana Roberts, Margaret Caldwell, and Syble Freeman put their desserts on the table. Always amazing that at every meal, we always have plenty to eat. We even have some neighbors bring us fried chicken--even when they can't make the meal themselves. What a great community!

Sylvia Sane was this month's winner of the 50/50 Raffle. She took home $52 and the club kept $52.
Jack Bancer gave a full report on our insurance policy. We gave approval for a $600 hike in our premium to insure the building at replacement cost of over $765,000. (Yes, all of us were surprised.)

The program was given by Jim Sane, who updated us on FIREWISE and announced a Chipper Day in the fall--for clean up around our homes, as we continue to be vigilant about keeping the 30' space around our homes uncluttered by fire-attractive limbs, leaves, and easily flammable plants. The date of Chipper Day will be announced as soon as we know. Jim also reminded us to consider purchasing the reflective numbers for our houses. They are really necessary and a great aid to our firefighters. See Jim Sane if you don't already have your numbers.

Neighborhood News

Gerton Summer Residents Die

 Billy Ray Watkins Sr. of Rockingham died Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at Reid Heart Center in Moore County. A memorial service was held on Saturday, July 28, 2018, at Pine Grove Baptist Church, 275 Airport Road, Rockingham. Memorials may be made to the church.

Betty Campbell spent many summers here in Gerton, along with her husband Dr. Griff Campbell. They both loved living in their house at the top of Chestnut Hills Road.  They entertained on their deck, played bridge with Tom and Glenna Florence, and Griff enjoyed golfing with Ed Carson, Jim Earnhardt, Doug Caldwell, and others.  In July, Betty died at age 90 at Twin Lakes in Burlington, N.C.  Her two sons were with her—Bob from Winston-Salem, young Griff from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.   Husband Griff died in 2015; they had lived at Twin Lakes for fourteen years, having moved from Stanly County where Griff had taught literature at Pfeiffer University, and Betty had served as beloved school secretary at Richfield Elementary School.  Betty’s remaining years were spent singing in her church choir, reading hundreds of novels, hugely enjoying visits from her five grandchildren and their families, and many, many friends who came to love her at Twin Lakes.  Being an active lifelong Lutheran and mother to two professional musicians, she wrote at one time, made her life “richer by far."

Reporting Vandalism!

Recently, J.D. Nappi and Fred Nappi, of Hot Dixie Dogs, reported that their big HOT DOGS AHEAD signs had been stolen from the side of the road. They think the perpetrator to be just someone passing by. So this is just a note to say that if you happen to see someone driving by and messing with Gerton property, please take down a license plate number.