Students and employees were recognized during the Monday night regular Burke County Board of Education meeting. Students in elementary and middle school were recognized for their accomplishments in the speech contest that was held December 14th and 15th.
Elementary School
First Place
Original Composition: Chloe Garrison - Salem
Notable Speeches: Laya Bolds - Salem
Prose: Kaylen Hall - Oak Hill
Poetry: Daniel Kreahling - Salem

Middle School
First Place
Duo Category: Leena Brittain & Sarah Johnson - East Burke
Original Oratory: Brody Wright - Heritage
Poetry: Emma Welland - Heritage
Prose: Rachel Gamewell - Walter Johnson & Luke Elliot - East Burke  Tied
Recited Oratory: Sara Byrd Succop - Heritage

A large number of Burke County Public School teachers were acknowledged for training certifications, performance bonuses and credentials. 17 teachers were recognized for their Gifted Training (AIG) Local Training Certifications, four third grade teachers were recognized for reading performance in the class and being in the top 25% in the LEA and received a bonus. Nine other third grade teachers were awarded for being not only top 25% in the LEA, but also top 25% in the state, also receiving a bonus. Thirteen teachers were acknowledged for their Career and Technical Institutions (CTE) Credentials, receiving a bonus of $25 per student credential. And 31 teachers received bonuses for their student's Advanced Placement.

Two Marion men are facing drug charges following a traffic stop. 25-year-old Justin James McKinney and 20-year-old Austen James Bowie have various drug charges against them after McDowell officers stopped a vehicle they were passengers inside. Reports state McKinney was charged with possession of methamphetamine and Bowie with possession of marijuana. The deputy searched all five occupants and discovered .20 grams of meth on McKinney and 3.9 grams of marijuana on Bowie. Officers stopped the vehicle knowing the driver had a suspended license.

Weapon and drug charges are placed on a Claremont resident. The Catawba County Sheriff's Office Tuesday, filed 5 charges on 43-year-old Felicia Hedrick Salvati. Charges include possession of a firearm by felon, possession of a weapon of mass destruction and 3 marijuana offenses. Bond was set at $50,000 with a court appearance scheduled for today.