Parent Teacher Magazine Gaston County Schools January 2014 | Page 6

North Gaston student receives distinguished scholarship Ernesto Velasquez, a North Gaston High School senior, is the recipient of the Verizon Hispanic Achievement and Business Leadership Awards (HABLA) scholarship. The scholarship valued at $5,000 was presented October 8 at a luncheon hosted by the Mint Museum of Charlotte. He is one of four students in the United States to receive this prestigious scholarship. “The Verizon HABLA Scholarship is presented in an effort to keep the community moving forward through education and community involvement,” said Ralph Herrera, president and founder of LANZA Group, which promoted the HABLA scholarship. “We believe that educating our youth and providing positive role models and encouragement is the best path toward future Hispanic achievement and business leadership success.” Velasquez is the son of Erneseto Velasquez and Alexandra Aguirre. He is a member of the men’s soccer team and the marching/symphonic band. He is president of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and Spanish clubs and treasurer of the Beta Club. He attended the Commissioners School of Excellence and the North Carolina Governor’s School to study instrumental music. Velasquez plans to attend UNC Chapel Hill and major in biology and pursue a career in the medical field. North Gaston science teacher Elizabeth Leonard said, “Ernesto is a true role model for other students. He is dedicated to his school and community. I am extremely proud of his accomplishments and expect great things from him as he pursues his education at the next level.” Improving Education is Our Vision LARGEST SNOW TUBING PARK ON THE EAST COAST! • LANES 400-1000 FT LONG • 2 MOVING CARPET LIFTS • 100% SNOWMAKING • BUY TICKETS ONLINE Snow Tubing Featuring 4 different areas to snow tube with over 20 lanes of fun! LON GES T ZIP LIN E COU RSE ON THE Ziplining • OVER 4 MILES OF ZIPLINES • 20 CABLE RUNS • HEIGHTS OVER 200 FT EAS T COA ST! • OPEN YEAR ‘ROUND • RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED Located off Hwy 105, Between Boone & Banner Elk 800.822.HAWK or 828.963.6561 www.HawksnestTubing.com :: www.HawksnestZipline.com 4 • January/February 2014 • Parent Teacher Magazine  Gastonia 704-853-3937 • Dallas 704-922-9808 www.gastoneye.com