Our streetside sign sends message--as we have spent the spring following our stay-at-home state order: Be Kind. Love your Neighbor. Supporting a safe and healthy community.
President's Note
In times like these, it is nice to be able to take comfort in the
things that remain the same and are familiar in our Community. We are
fortunate to live in an area that has such natural beauty and where each
season brings an opportunity to enjoy a different aspect of nature.
However, along with the familiar has come the uncertainty that we are
experiencing as a Community, State, Nation, and World; I am using this
knowledge to remind myself we will get through this together. I would
normally be following a “road map” about how to plan and execute well
established Community Events along with the other members of our Board
of Directors. Gerton has a long, proud history of coming together to
celebrate seasonal events and holidays, monthly dinners, and offering
support to those in need in our larger community. As most of you are
finding, there is not a precedent for what we are experiencing now, and
so I am reminding myself to look for ways to do the next right thing--checking on a neighbor, following health and safety guidelines, and, most
importantly, taking good care of myself.
Part of the regular message of past Presidents in the spring has been to share the news of a successful Sale on the Trail fundraiser, community breakfast, Easter activities, and to start sharing news about our summer events. Those are not things I can share at this time, but I do want to be sure we all take Pride in the ways we have supported our neighbors by following guidelines, staying home, and practicing good social distancing measures.
We have also done a GREAT job of supporting our partners at Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach – through our donations, we are feeding and supporting local families in our community. Please continue to support our efforts as we move through spring and into the summer season. With schools being out, it is important to remember that the feeding initiatives of our local schools may not be able to support all of our younger community, so our donations are vital!
The Community Center Board of Directors will continue to meet on a monthly basis to discuss when we will resume activities and how to implement any necessary changes. We have canceled our May activities and will provide an update on future events in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to send an e-mail that will be shared with the Board to groundedingerton@gmail.com .
In closing, I want to send out a special Thank You to Margaret Whitt for her commitment to producing the Echo of the Gorge – this is a large task, and she does a great job of coordinating with individual contributors and keeping us all informed!
All the Best!
Stan Mobley
Part of the regular message of past Presidents in the spring has been to share the news of a successful Sale on the Trail fundraiser, community breakfast, Easter activities, and to start sharing news about our summer events. Those are not things I can share at this time, but I do want to be sure we all take Pride in the ways we have supported our neighbors by following guidelines, staying home, and practicing good social distancing measures.
We have also done a GREAT job of supporting our partners at Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach – through our donations, we are feeding and supporting local families in our community. Please continue to support our efforts as we move through spring and into the summer season. With schools being out, it is important to remember that the feeding initiatives of our local schools may not be able to support all of our younger community, so our donations are vital!
The Community Center Board of Directors will continue to meet on a monthly basis to discuss when we will resume activities and how to implement any necessary changes. We have canceled our May activities and will provide an update on future events in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to send an e-mail that will be shared with the Board to groundedingerton@gmail.com .
In closing, I want to send out a special Thank You to Margaret Whitt for her commitment to producing the Echo of the Gorge – this is a large task, and she does a great job of coordinating with individual contributors and keeping us all informed!
All the Best!
Stan Mobley
Calendar of Events/Holidays
Sunday, May 10 - Mothers' Day
Tuesday, May 19 - UHNGCC Meeting and Program CANCELLED
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day
Tuesday, June 16 - UHNGCC Meeting and Dinner -- A NOTICE WILL GO OUT LATER if we will gather or not!
Saturday, June 21 - First Day of Summer
Sunday, June 21 - Fathers' Day
What Goes Around...Comes Around
Looking back 100 years!
UHNGCC Continues Help for Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach
*******
For those who need assistance: The Outreach is located at 2556 Memorial Highway in Lake Lure. Their hours are 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Call 625-4683 for information. Website: hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org
*********
Stan Mobley and Jim Earnhardt help display food for delivery to Outreach in Lake Lure on Monday, April 27. Neighbors were generous once again in their giving in these times of increased food insecurities. We delivered 89 pounds of toiletries and personal care products on April 13 and 283 pounds of assorted canned goods on April 27. Thus, our April total was 372 pounds!
For May's first delivery on Monday, May 11, please continue to bring food items to the post office in Gerton. A board member will collect the food and deliver to Outreach. Needs for this cycle include the following:
- Peanut butter
- Jelly -- Manna provides grape jelly, so strawberry or some other fruit jelly is especially welcome
- Macaroni and cheese -- a staple on their shelves. Always in need of more boxes
- Ravioli--especially popular in the weekend boxes
- Fruit juice
- Cereal --another staple...always in need of more!
Some of these items do not weigh much, but their need outweighs our need to collect heavy food! Thanks to all for this ongoing support for our neighbors in the gorge.
COPING TOOLS FOR UNFAMILIAR TIMES
What Goes Around...Comes Around
Looking back 100 years!
UHNGCC Continues Help for Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach
*******
For those who need assistance: The Outreach is located at 2556 Memorial Highway in Lake Lure. Their hours are 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Call 625-4683 for information. Website: hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org
*********
Stan Mobley and Jim Earnhardt help display food for delivery to Outreach in Lake Lure on Monday, April 27. Neighbors were generous once again in their giving in these times of increased food insecurities. We delivered 89 pounds of toiletries and personal care products on April 13 and 283 pounds of assorted canned goods on April 27. Thus, our April total was 372 pounds!
For May's first delivery on Monday, May 11, please continue to bring food items to the post office in Gerton. A board member will collect the food and deliver to Outreach. Needs for this cycle include the following:
- Peanut butter
- Jelly -- Manna provides grape jelly, so strawberry or some other fruit jelly is especially welcome
- Macaroni and cheese -- a staple on their shelves. Always in need of more boxes
- Ravioli--especially popular in the weekend boxes
- Fruit juice
- Cereal --another staple...always in need of more!
Some of these items do not weigh much, but their need outweighs our need to collect heavy food! Thanks to all for this ongoing support for our neighbors in the gorge.
COPING TOOLS FOR UNFAMILIAR TIMES
by Dave MacDonald
Many
of my Gerton neighbors know that I’m an artist blacksmith creating
sculptural pieces which have a psychological theme. What you may not
know is that one source for my creative expression comes from another
creative discipline – my professional life as a practicing
psychotherapist and specialist in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD).
We are all living through a remarkable and
unsettling time in history. The Coronavirus Pandemic has the potential
to stress us all out and to challenge the ways we normally cope with
complicated, uncertain, and anxiety-filled times.
I thought it
might be helpful to offer a few calming ideas and practices which I
recommend to my patients, clients, and friends. Many of these tools are a
type of “brain hack” which I practice myself.*
First and
foremost know this: Outside of our general awareness, our body senses
danger or safety and it automatically responds to its environment in
kind. If it feels safe/secure enough, it can settle down, relax, and we
think clearly. If it senses threat, it stays “on alert,” and our
thinking and perception are narrowed to primarily looking out for signs
of imminent danger.
It’s important, when we are not
actually in immediate threat of life and limb, to have practices which
help the body settle into the important state of “relax and digest.” Here are a few simple tools. They’re all very portable and can be put
into practice immediately.
1. Put a half-smile on your face – A smile sends feedback to your brain that you’re OK.
2. Sing or Hum out loud – This tones the Vagus nerve and helps the body to feel OK and more secure.
3.
Breathe slow belly breaths – Breathe in slowly for 4-5 seconds and out
more slowly for 6-8 seconds. Again, this breath style will help the
Vagus nerve to tell the body to relax and digest.
4. Breathe into
your heart with gratitude – Focus on the area of your heart and breathe
4-5 seconds in and 4-5 seconds out. As you breathe, make a sincere
attempt to experience a feeling of appreciation or gratitude you have
for some person, thing, or situation in your life.
5. Play the
Glad Game – When we’re stressed, it is easy for Automatic Negative
ThoughtS (ANTS) to arise easily. It is very important to “kill” the
ANTS quickly and one way to do this is by playing the “Glad Game." This
involves finding the positive in ANY situation, especially the negative
ones (Ex. I’m GLAD to visit the dentist because I won’t have to visit
her again for 6 whole months!).
*Please know that these
tips are not my own but are gratefully borrowed from multiple sources of
wisdom. I hope one or more of these tips and tricks might prove
helpful on a difficult day. Remember that we will find our way through
this together and practice being kind to your neighbor and yourself.
What Are You Doing in These Days of Sheltering in Place?
From Anastasia Walsh: Jose
and I have been enjoying way less driving lately - he's mostly working
from home, helping the children of migrant agricultural workers access
online learning and other resources.
The kids are playing lots of music and participating in online
games/chats with their friends. We've been doing quite a bit of hiking
lately - Eva and I made it up to the top of Wildcat Rock a couple of
days ago, and then she ran all the way down (in her flip
flops!)
We're also doing a family read of the Harry Potter series - great for
getting kids hooked on reading, and great escapist reading in general.
* * * * * *
From Mike Hamlin: I'm a full time potter. My studio is on my property in a somewhat isolated area of Gerton. My friends, who became my neighbors, helped me find the house I now call my home. I absolutely love where I live. The mountain forest inspires the pieces I design then create. I work alone and often times I am so focused on creating that I find I haven’t left my property for almost a week. It would be easy for me to become a recluse. I'm fortunate to train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and that provides me with exercise and a social outlet. Honestly, the social distancing parameters we are engaged in now hasn’t changed my lifestyle by much. If I never heard the news, which raised my awareness of the Covid-19 crisis, I would be living, in the midst of it all, the same daily schedule I followed before this pandemic started. I meditate regularly, socialize on the phone with my friends, and enjoy watching nature change day by day.
My income comes directly from sales of the pottery I create. I sell directly at art festivals around the country. These art festivals are another source for me to socialize with people. The parameters of this physical distancing has forced cancellations of all the art festivals. Fortunately, the Sanibel Art Festival, which I attended in February, was a success. In March I restocked various galleries throughout the state with new pieces. Locally, I restocked spaces I have at New Moon Marketplace in Fairview, Woolworth Walk in downtown Asheville, and Trackside Studios in the River Arts District. These galleries significantly supplement my annual income. Social distancing forced all galleries to close. My income was reduced to zero.
When one door closes, two more open. I became aware of various disaster relief funds made available to small businesses and artists. I applied for everything . After a lot of paper work, persistence, and patience, I gradually started to receive much needed financial aid. This relieved the stress I was feeling about paying my bills. With that burden lifted off my shoulders, I am getting back to being inspired by the mountain forest in which I live and use that inspiration to design and create the art for which I am known.
From Mike Hamlin: I'm a full time potter. My studio is on my property in a somewhat isolated area of Gerton. My friends, who became my neighbors, helped me find the house I now call my home. I absolutely love where I live. The mountain forest inspires the pieces I design then create. I work alone and often times I am so focused on creating that I find I haven’t left my property for almost a week. It would be easy for me to become a recluse. I'm fortunate to train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and that provides me with exercise and a social outlet. Honestly, the social distancing parameters we are engaged in now hasn’t changed my lifestyle by much. If I never heard the news, which raised my awareness of the Covid-19 crisis, I would be living, in the midst of it all, the same daily schedule I followed before this pandemic started. I meditate regularly, socialize on the phone with my friends, and enjoy watching nature change day by day.
My income comes directly from sales of the pottery I create. I sell directly at art festivals around the country. These art festivals are another source for me to socialize with people. The parameters of this physical distancing has forced cancellations of all the art festivals. Fortunately, the Sanibel Art Festival, which I attended in February, was a success. In March I restocked various galleries throughout the state with new pieces. Locally, I restocked spaces I have at New Moon Marketplace in Fairview, Woolworth Walk in downtown Asheville, and Trackside Studios in the River Arts District. These galleries significantly supplement my annual income. Social distancing forced all galleries to close. My income was reduced to zero.
When one door closes, two more open. I became aware of various disaster relief funds made available to small businesses and artists. I applied for everything . After a lot of paper work, persistence, and patience, I gradually started to receive much needed financial aid. This relieved the stress I was feeling about paying my bills. With that burden lifted off my shoulders, I am getting back to being inspired by the mountain forest in which I live and use that inspiration to design and create the art for which I am known.
Dispatches from Florida -- on the Front Lines of the War against the CoronaVirus
from Karen Owensby
(WEEK ONE) Good Friday, April 10-Tampa----Happy
Friday, dear Gerton friends. Wanted to let you know I am well. Have had a
VERY busy week. My job was to set up and run a 700-bed field hospital.
Because the surge is not expected to hit Tampa too hard, they made the
decision not to open the hospital.
My new job is to manage the deployment center. This hospital system is working hard to keep staff working. Those willing to work anywhere (2,000 have signed up). My job will be to get staff to where they want to be. This job will have no exposure to patients.
The field hospital may open up yet. We shall see.
I dearly miss Gerton and all my friends. It is so darn hot here.
Will send updates along. Thanks to everyone for your prayers, care, and concern.
Keep GERTON STRONG!
My new job is to manage the deployment center. This hospital system is working hard to keep staff working. Those willing to work anywhere (2,000 have signed up). My job will be to get staff to where they want to be. This job will have no exposure to patients.
The field hospital may open up yet. We shall see.
I dearly miss Gerton and all my friends. It is so darn hot here.
Will send updates along. Thanks to everyone for your prayers, care, and concern.
Keep GERTON STRONG!
(WEEK TWO) Tampa:--In early April, I was asked to come to Tampa to open and manage a 700-bed surge hospital. The site was a 150,000 square foot ice rink in Wesley Chapel, FL. By mid-April, the decision was made to not open the surge hospital, for the
predicted COVID-19 infection rate was much lower than anticipated.
The peak volume of COVID-19 in Tampa was expected
this week. This has not been our experience. For comparison to
Henderson County:
Hillsborough County (Tampa)
- Total population: 1.45 million
- Confirmed COVID-19 cases: 979
- Total deaths from COVID-19: 30 (fatality rate 2.04)
Henderson County NC
- Total population: 117,000
- Confirmed COVID-19 cases: 129
- Total deaths from COVID-19: 13 (fatality rate 10.08)
At this time, my work is centered around
redeployment of staff in AdventHealth West Florida to assure employees
receive a whole paycheck. Also, the anticipated surge in the fall – due
to flu and COVID-19 – is expected to be much worse
than what we are now experiencing. We are now planning how to meet the
fall surge.
I am looking forward to return to beautiful Gerton, hopefully in June. Wishing all my Gerton friends good health.
Neighborhood News
The Chestnut Hills neighborhood will be 100-years-old in two years. Sam Earnhardt, whose family has been in the neighborhood since the mid-1940s recently gave our sign, made by Jim Earnhardt, a fresh coat of paint. Thanks, Sam!
Another Opportunity to Help....
Gracelyn, Hayden, and Adeline McAbee in Okinawa, Japan
Roman soldiers couldn't stop Easter 2000 years ago, and no virus too small to be seen can stop it this year. At Easter we think of new life for ourselves and others, and this year we have an opportunity to celebrate a new life in a whole new way. Virtually everyone in Gerton know Ben and Elizabeth McGuffey helped populate and share this beautiful mountain community. They know of their 4 daughters: Barbara, Patty, Virginia and Margaret and their children and grandchildren. Great grand daughter of Ben and Elizabeth, Gracelyn Perry McAbee, was married in the meadow of Chestnut Hills in front of the community center. Recently she and her precious 1 and a half year old daughter Adeline returned from Japan to visit family while husband Hayden an Air Force mechanic was away for training. Only the day before coming Gracelyn and Hayden learned they would be welcoming a son to the family.
Here is where we can shine, Gerton! The virus can't stop Easter but it did stop travel and it did stop visitation and it has canceled any future plans. Why don't family and friends here in Gerton help a young family VIRTUALLY? Our first virtual baby and/ or toddler shower! While you are shopping on line at Amazon or any number of stores that you would like to support, order a package of diapers, any size, for all would be appreciated...Or a small toy...or a keepsake book, or a children's book! You can have them sent to:
Gracelyn Perry McAbee
C/o Eric Perry
2352 Milstead Circle
Marietta, GA 30066
Mother and daughter packed only the minimal needed to visit. Adeline will be thrilled with packages coming to the door and Mom and Adeline can read any books they get as they wait (and make sure baby brother will love them.) Include a loving note and we will let the baby's granddad, Eric, disinfect any boxes before they come in the house! We can do this Gerton! A new baby, a new life, and a new way to celebrate! Please feel free to call me if I can help with logistics.
an idea from Bonnie Moore, 828 625-2573 :-)
an idea from Bonnie Moore, 828 625-2573 :-)
Long-Time Gerton Neighbor Dies
Janice Reid Yates Beck was born in Hamlet,
North Carolina to Sheppard Boyd Yates II and Matilda Ruth Wabberson Yates. She was
predeceased by her parents, and brothers Wallace Neil Yates and Charles
Boyd Yates, her husband Richard U. Beck Sr., of Hamlet and son
Richard U Beck, Jr. and nephew Charles Boyd Yates, Jr. Jan loved life,
was devoted to God, adored her family, and cherished a host of good
friends. In her garden, she nurtured beautiful flowers, birds of every
sort, and was in tune with all of nature's creatures. Jan was an
accomplished artist and watercolor became her favorite medium. Jan was a
charter member of the Caravan Book Club established in 1988. Her book
club friends were among her many special friends.
Jan loved the community of Gerton, where she made many fond memories and dear friendships. She was a sales consultant for Doncaster Clothing and owner of Honey Chile gift shop in Charlotte. She was a longtime member of Providence Baptist Church in Charlotte. She called herself a 'Bapcopalian' as she was also a confirmed Episcopalian. Surviving family members are: Sons: Ned Beck, Bryon Beck & wife Marianne, John Beck & wife Pam. Grandchildren: Jacob Beck, Miranda Beck Fleming & husband Travis. Great Grandchildren: Avery Beck, Harper Fleming. Nieces Lynn Yates Baughman, Katherine Yates Hovermale, Deborah Yates Winterbauer. Nephews: Steven Yates and Sheppard Yates, Ken Watkins, Ray Watkins. Sister in law: Rosemary Watkins.
Services will be at Providence Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC on a future date. Memorial Gifts may be made to: The Humane Society of Charlotte NC, 2700 Toomey Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203; Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Center, PO Box 222, Gerton NC 28735; or Providence Baptist Church, 4921 Randolph Rd, Charlotte, NC 28211.
Echo of the Gorge is published bi-monthly, a newsletter of the UHNGCC. Copies are available in the Gerton PO and online at www.gertonecho.blogspot.com News and pictures may be sent to editor Margaret Whitt at margaret.whitt@du.edu
Officers of UHNGCC: Stan Mobley (president), Jim Earnhardt (vice president), Sylvia Sane (treasurer), Karen Owensby (secretary), Board (Jean Bradley, Margaret Whitt, Chuck Mallory)
