This feature mines the McDowell News archives for what was going on this week in local history.
Forty-three years ago this week, local volunteers were recognized for what they do to make McDowell County a better place to live. National Volunteer Week was celebrated locally to help put the spotlight on those who gave their time and talents to help others and the community. In the photo on the left, Barbara Wagner and Rosamond Braly were two of the Pilot Club of Marion members who volunteered their time at the McDowell High School media center since the club adopted the media center as one of its projects. In the photo on the right, Mayor Jim Segars signed a proclamation declaring that week as “National Volunteer Week” in Marion as Community Schools Coordinator Sandra Epperson looks on. Epperson coordinated the volunteer programs at the school before becoming the executive director of MACA.
During the week of April 7, 1983, three members of the “Up with People” cast were in town making preparations for the big April 30 show at McDowell High. The international music show had a cast of 105 performers, including Kathy Vanderbeck of Old Fort, and was scheduled to perform in the high school gym. The show was sponsored by The McDowell News-Express and the 4-H Clubs of McDowell. Holding one of the many posters was Patricia Homonylo of Ontario, Canada, and Russ Goedde of Washington state and Joe Hess of New York.
During the week of April 7, 1983, a surprise spring snowstorm caught everyone off guard. The storm dumped 3 inches of snow onto McDowell County and traffic was snarled throughout the community. The hazardous driving conditions were blamed for this two-car pileup on U.S. 70 East that left two people injured.
Forty-three years ago this week, the McDowell High varsity girls’ softball team included (first row, from left) Cathy Parker, LaDonna Church, Janet Taylor, Donna Randolph, Hayleigh Potter, Jennifer Wilson, Lisa Mace, Amy Clontz and Tina Spurlin and (back row, from left) Joy King, Monica Outzs, Sherri Bunting, Michelle Bolick, Karen Allison, Vicki Grindstaff, Teri Hall and Barbara Vess.
During the week of April 7, 1983, Wilton Carter, personnel director of Marion Manufacturing Co., presented a donation to the United Way of McDowell. Loretta Keeter (left), who was president of the United Way, accepted the check. On hand for the presentation was Sylvia Scott, who worked in the company’s personnel department.
Forty-three years ago this week, Michael Keith Lavender, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Melton Lavender, was awarded a George Foster Hankins Scholarship to Wake Forest University. He was among the 46 North Carolina high school seniors who were awarded the scholarship.
Forty-three years ago this week, Archie Moore of Old Fort did well in the Toughman Contest, held at the Asheville Civic Center. Moore won the first night of the event and came back the following night to win two bouts before losing to David Henry, who went to the championship round. Other participants from McDowell County were W.D. Lusk, Harley Morgan, brothers Carry and Bobby Dobson and Cash Phillips.
During the week of April 7, 1983, Titan baseball Coach Coy Gibson signals with his hands during McDowell's 10-5 loss to Hickory at a home game. In spite of the loss, the Titans have won four of their last six games.
During the week of April 7, 1983, McDowell News photographer Jeff Black captured legendary wrestler Ric Flair, known as The Nature Boy, in action against Greg Valentine at the Asheville Civic Center. Flair wrestled in two countries in one day, as he defended his title as NWA champion in Toronto, Canada, before coming back to wrestle in Asheville.
Forty-three years ago this week, Butch Hogan, chairman of the 1983 Annual Scout Show, (left) presented Boy Scout badges to honorary chairs (second from left to right) Deborah Potter of WLOS Channel 13; Ann Crisp, managing editor of The McDowell News; and Annette Bryant, general manager of WBRM Radio. The Scout Show was held at East McDowell Junior High.
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This feature mines our archives for what was going on this week in local history.
This feature mines the McDowell News archives for what was going on this week in local history.
This feature mines our archives for what was going on this week in local history.
