Cherryville Eagle 8-16-23

2023 backpack giveaway at First Wesleyan a great success

Volunteer group usually gives out 150-plus backpacks during the event

by MICHAEL E. POWELL

Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Every year, as they have since 2013, Cherryville Area Ministries (CAM), along with several area churches, has a Back-toSchool Backpack Giveaway for Cherryville area kids getting ready for the halls of academia.

This year the host church was Cherryville’s First Wesleyan Church, stepping up again for their second time of hosting the event.

It’s back to school time for 30,000 Gaston County Schools students

Students return to class on Wednesday, Aug. 16 to begin the 2023-2024 academic year

by TODD HAGANS Chief Communications Officer

GASTONIA, N.C. – It’s back-to-school time in Gaston County! On Wednesday, Aug. 16, approximately 30,000 students (pre-kindergarten through high school) and more than 1,900 teachers in Gaston County Schools return to class to begin the 2023-2024 academic year.

Students, parents, and school employees are looking ahead to the new school year with enthusiasm and optimism. It is the goal of all teachers and school employees to provide quality opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive at the district’s 56 schools.

Elementary schools operate from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., and middle schools and high schools operate from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Parents should check with their child’s school for the exact schedule as start/end times for some schools may vary.

The start/end times coincide with a two-tier model

used for bus transportation. The two-tier model makes it possible for bus drivers to complete two routes in the morning and two routes in the afternoon – a driver has an elementary route first and then a middle school or a high school route. The twotier model is intended to get students to school and back home in a timely manner and ensure that there are enough bus drivers.

In addition to focusing on continued academic growth and higher achievement, providing a safe school environment for students and employees remains a priority.

Gaston County Schools is proud of its on-going partnership with the Gaston County Police Department, Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, and municipal law enforcement agencies, which are committed to doing everything possible to ensure that schools are secure and personnel are prepared should any type of emergency situation occur.

Each school follows its comprehensive safety plan; as See SCHOOL, Page 2

According to its sponsors and many volunteers, the program has been uber-successful and helps out so many children and their parents in that the stuffedfull-of-supplies backpacks are all “grade-centric”; that is, they have pretty much all the necessary scholastic essentials inside to make little Johnny and little Suzy succeed in school, all because they came prepared.

This year’s opening day was held on Saturday, Aug. 12, and, as per one of the many super-great (and helpful) volunteers, Kim Eaker, all went well from start to finish. Helping Ms. Eaker were Barbara Curry and Barbara McDaniel.

Said Ms. Eaker, “CAM

puts this on every year, along with several area churches. We even held it during COVID, though things were done a little differently then. Also, this is First Wesleyan’s second time hosting the event, and next year it will be at Second Baptist Church.

As for how long we have been doing this, I believe it was started in 2013 by my daughter, Kelly Eaker and Betsy Dellinger.”

The CAM group was joined in the Lord’s work by four ladies who volunteered to cut hair for many of the students who wanted (or needed) it, and the First Baptist Church Praise band, known as “The Table”, sang See BACKPACK, Page 4

Works alongside Dr. Cloninger and Dr. Delores Hammer in Cherryville office

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Cloninger Dentistry has another doctor to provide top-notch dental care at its Cherryville location at 1015 East Church St., in the person of Dr. Charles L. Haddock.

Doctor Haddock, DMD, joins with Dr. Paul Cloninger and Dr, Delores Hammer in seeing patients at the Cherryville location, and he noted in the recent interview that he and his wife, Halie, both “…graduated from East Carolina University’s School of Dental Medicine in 2022, which is actually where we met.”

Dr. Charles Haddock newest dentist at Cloninger Dentistry U.S. Sen. Tedd Budd endorses Mark Robinson in NC Governor race

by ALEX BALTZEGAR Carolina Journal

On Tuesday, Aug. 8, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s campaign announced that North Carolina’s junior U.S. Senator, Ted Budd, has endorsed Robinson in his bid for governor.

“We need a governor focused on the bottom line for North Carolina families, a strong voice for all who live paycheck to paycheck, and wonder whether their kids will find a job,” Budd said in a video endorse-

ment. “Mark Robinson has the courage we need as governor. He’s a man of faith and conviction, and he hasn’t spent his whole life in politics. He’s seen adversity, and he’s risen above it. The American dream is engrained in Mark Robinson, and he’ll preserve it for the next generation.” Robinson is the clear frontrunner governor in the Republican primary. He will face off against former U.S. Rep. Mark Walker, State Treasurer Dale Folwell, See ROBINSON, Page 4

The band, The Table, performing Christian songs worshipping and praising the Lord at last Saturday’s, Aug. 12, 2023 Back-to-School backpack giveaway at First Wesleyan Church. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

North Carolina Lt. Governor Mark Robinson (left) and U.S. Sen. Ted Budd (right) stand with former President Donald Trump (center). (photo courtesy of the Rockingham County Republican Party)

■ OBITUARIES

Baine Stephen

“Steve” Wilkinson

CHERRYVILLE –

Baine Stephen “Steve” “Poppy” Wilkinson, 79, of Cherryville, passed away Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023, at his residence. He was born July 26, 1944, in Lincoln County to the late Adley Baine Wilkinson and Bonnie Walker Wilkinson.

In addition to his par-

SCHOOL

From Page 1 part of the plan, schools conduct evacuation, lockdown, fire, and tornado/ severe weather exercises periodically. All schools are assigned a police resource officer, which provides a direct link between the school and law enforcement. Schools will continue the practice of random metal detection screenings for students and staff, and metal detection screenings will be in place for athletic events and extracurricular activities. If parents have a question or concern, they are reminded to contact their child’s teacher or the school principal to discuss the issue or schedule a meeting. Parents should make sure that their child’s school has up-to-date contact information (home address, telephone number, e-mail address, etc.) on file. Parents should contact the school office to provide updates.

Back-To-School Highlights

Here are five back-toschool highlights for students, parents, and school employees:

▪ School calendar with earlier start date

The first day of school for students is Wednesday, Aug. 16. In February, the Board of Education adopted the 20232024 school calendar with an earlier start date to allow students to complete mid-year exams prior to the winter break while having a similar number of days in each semester. The Board’s decision is based on the district’s school calendar survey that showed 85.1 percent of respondents (students, parents, employees, and others) favoring a school calendar with the first semester ending in December and the second semester beginning in January.

Additionally, the 2023-2024 calendar with an earlier start date and the mid-year break in December coincides better with the community college calendar.

The August 16 start date also means students will get out of school earlier. The last day of school is Wednesday, May 22, 2024, and high school graduation day is Friday, May 24, 2024. The last workday in the 2023-2024 calendar for teachers/certified personnel is Friday, May 31, 2024.

Board of Education searches for new

superintendent

The Gaston County Board of Education is continuing its search for the next superintendent of Gaston County Schools. The N.C. School Boards Association (NCSBA) is facilitating the superintendent search process for the Board of Education, and currently, the NCSBA is

ents, he was proceeded in death by his wife, Rebecca Lynn “Becky” Crouse Wilkinson; and his son, Slade Wilkinson. He is survived by his son, Shea Wilkinson and fiancée, Melissa Miller; his grandsons, Austin Wilkinson and wife, Olivia Tess Wilkinson, Cain Wilkinson, and Mary Beth Wyatt; and his great-grandson, Cohen Slade Wilkinson. Steve loved his family; he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was also a member of First Baptist Church. Steve retired from Carolina Freight, where he worked in the computer center, assigned to production control. He was also a retired truck driver for Lowes. He was a 50-year member of the Cherryville Masonic Lodge #505 AF & AM. He was a member of the Charlotte Scottish Rite bodies. Steve loved attending car shows, working in his yard, and

preparing applicant materials to present to the Board for review (the deadline to apply was Aug. 7). The superintendent search timeline calls for the Board to conduct the first round of interviews in September. In July, as part of the search process, a survey was made available for school district employees, parents, business/civic leaders, and other people in the community to provide input. More than 3,400 survey responses were submitted, and survey takers were able to weigh in on the qualities, characteristics, and skills they would like to see in the next superintendent.

In the interim, Stephen C. Laws, Ed.D., is serving as superintendent. Laws began his career in 1981 as a workforce development teacher at Bessemer City High School. He later served as an assistant principal, principal, and human resources administrator in Gaston County Schools before becoming superintendent of Elkin City Schools in 1998. He also served as superintendent of Wilkes County Schools before retiring in 2011 and becoming an associate professor of education at Gardner-Webb University.

Laws became the interim superintendent on July 1, 2023, succeeding W. Jeffrey Booker, Ed.D., who informed the Board of Education in April of his intention to conclude his service to Gaston County Schools at the end of the 2022-2023 academic year. Booker, who became superintendent on Jan. 1, 2014, now works as the chief operating officer for Gaston College.

▪ More breakfast and lunch meals for free

This school year, more students will have free breakfast and lunch meals available to them. The number of schools participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program increases from 19 to 40. A list of the schools that qualify for CEP, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service, is on the Gaston County Schools’ web site. All students who attend a school that is involved in the CEP program receive a free breakfast and a free lunch – completing the free or reduced-price meals application is not necessary for students at CEP schools. For schools not involved in CEP, meal prices are in effect. Breakfast is $1.40 for students (all grade levels) and $2 for adults. Lunch is $2.90 for students in grades K-5 and $3 for students in grades 6-12. The price for adults is $4. Parents may apply for free or reduced-price meals for their child. The application can be found on the Gaston County Schools’ web site.

mowing. He was also an avid Braves fan.

A funeral service was held Monday, Aug. 14, 2023, at 12 noon, at First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating. The body lay in state from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., prior to the service. Burial followed at the City Memorial Cemetery. The family received friends after the burial at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Renee Crain Mission Group at the First Baptist Church, 301 E. 1st St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or Hospice of Cleveland County.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.

Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Wilkinson.

Professional development opportunity for assistant principals

Two years ago, through the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy, teachers in Gaston County Schools were given an opportunity to complete the coursework to become an assistant principal. Last year, teacher assistants were able to pursue the coursework/licensure requirements to become classroom teachers. Now, assistant principals are going to be able to prepare to become principals.

A group of assistant principals will be chosen this fall to participate in a series of professional development seminars to equip them with a better understanding of what it means to be a school principal. The program is part of Gaston County Schools’ effort to “grow our own” at a time when there is a nationwide shortage of people pursuing careers in education and many principals in Gaston County Schools already have 20-plus years of service.

The Superintendent’s Leadership Academy is an on-going partnership between Gaston County Schools and three of its partners in education: Gaston College, Belmont Abbey College, and Gardner-Webb University. The premise for the Academy is to “invest in our workforce today so our schools will have leaders tomorrow.”

Summertime renovation and repair projects

This summer, more than 50 renovation and repair projects took place at schools across the county. School bonds, which were approved by voters in 2018, and capital funds from the county are being used to pay for the various projects.

Some of the most noticeable renovation projects include parking lot paving at South Point High School, North Gaston High School, Southwest Middle School, and Kiser Elementary School and gym floor replacement at East Gaston High School, Costner Elementary School, Carr Elementary School, and Brookside Elementary School. Additional projects include roofing, lighting, painting, carpet/flooring, life safety, security vestibules, and other upgrades.

Additionally, site work is being completed and construction will begin soon on a new school to replace Grier Middle School in Gastonia. Essentially, the campus will flip – the new school is being built where the athletic fields were, and once the new school is open, new athletic fields will be constructed on the site of the old building. A groundbreaking celebration will be held in September with completion of the new school scheduled for 2025.

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

8-1: Kenneth James Tompkins, 50, Streets of Gaaston County; one count each misdemeanor simple possession of marijuana and WSOJ/Buncombe County. $2,000 secured bond.

8-2: Deivid Joel ReyesConejo, 22, 17G Woodmont Cir., Lincolnton; one count of misdemeanor DWLR. $2,000 secured bond. Vehicle impounded/towed to/ stored at KT Towing.

8-2: Gastonia PD officers arrested Megan Christine Collins, 35, 106 Laura Ct., Cherryville, at 2325 S. York Rd., Gastonia on one count of a warrant from another agency.

8-3: Tina Louise Davis, 42, Streets of Cherryville; was arrested at Southern Stores, Cherryville, on a WSOJ from Gaston County. $10,000 secured bond.

8-3: Monterio Dea Adams, 41, 108 Big Ike Dr., Bessemer City; one count each misdemeanor DUI, pe container after 1st consuming, and DWLR. $15,000 secured bond.

8-9: Mellissa Sneed Cooper, 61, 140 Sador St., Cherryville; one count misdemeanor all other larceny. Released on a written promise.

INCIDENTS

8-1: CPD officer reports simple possession of marijuana and a WSOJ on listed suspect who possessed controlled substance and was served w/an outstanding warrant. Closed/cleared by arrest. Seized: 2 grams of marijuana.

8-1: Cherryville woman reports B&E by unknown subject who broke into her

home. Unknown damage done to window. Case is active and under further investigation.

8-2: CPD officer reports DWLR by listed suspect who drove w/a suspended driving privilege. Closed/ cleared by arrest.

8-3: CPD officer reports DUI, open container after first consuming, and DWLR by listed suspect who was driving under the influence w/an open container of alcohol while his OL was revoked. Closed/cleared by arrest.

8-5: Cherryville man reports assault and battery on listed Cherryville woman by listed care facility elderly resident who assaulted her. No injuries reported. Closed by exception and under further investigation.

8-5: GCPD officers report further investigation into a larceny-other incident at 105 Pruitt Rd., Cherryville.

8-8: GCPD officers report further investigation into a non-forced entry burglary at 235 Dick Beam Rd., Cherryville .

8-9: Cherryville business reports all other larceny by listed suspect who stole, took/carried away misc. landscaping products est. at $50.06. Taken: misc. rock, mulch, and sand. Closed/ cleared by arrest.

8-9: CPD officer reports operating a vehicle w/no insurance; cancelled/revoked/ suspended tag/registration card; and DWLR/not impaired by listed suspect who operated a vehicle while license & registration plate revoked and having no insurance. Case is active and under further investigation.

8-9: Kings Mountain man reports motor vehicle theft by unknown person who stole victim’s property (Carryon trailer valued at $1,500). Case is active and under further investigation.

8-9: Cherryville woman reports injury to personal property by unknown subject who damaged Dodge Durango window ($200). Case is active and under further investigation.

8-9: Cherryville hardware business reports that on June 16, listed suspect failed to return rental equipment/ property ($1,600 STIHL S420 concrete saw) to their store. Case is active and under further investigation.

WRECKS

8-7: A vehicle driven by Jason Coy Dean Patterson, 43, 101 Roy Eaker Rd., Cherryville, was making a right turn from the parking lot of 401 E. First St., onto First Street. Due to a vehicle pulling in the parking lot, the Patterson vehicle overrode a small yellow pole and became stuck. No injuries reported. Est. damage to the Patterson vehicle: $2,500.

8-7: A vehicle driven by John Christopher Parker, 50, 111 Green Meadows dr., Kings Mountain, was parked at Caputo’s Restaurant, facing east. An unidentified vehicle backed up, colliding with the Parker vehicle before fleeing the scene. There is no description of the unidentified vehicle. No injuries reported. Est. damage to the Parker vehicle: $2,500.

Interest groups urge State Board of Election to disqualify Trump in NC

Group, “Free Speech for People”, has no legal basis for the challenge

by KEVIN GARCIA-GALINDO Carolina Journal

Two left-leaning organizations sent a letter to North Carolina’s State Board of Elections last month urging the state officials to block former president Donald J. Trump from being able to run for president, arguing that his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol legally disqualified him according to Section three of the 14th amendment. North Carolina is one of nine states targeted by the letter campaign.

The letters were from the organizations Free Speech For People and Mi Familia Vota Education Fund, and addressees includes election officials from California, Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.

The letters closely resemble a similar letter sent by the sent group to the Nevada Secretary of State Francisco V. Aguilar back in April. The campaign was originally launched solely by Free Speech For People under the name of the “14 Point 3 Campaign,” but was relaunched in November when Trump announced his reelection campaign, in collaboration with Mi Familia Vota, under the new name of “Trump is Disqualified.”

Legal argument and analysis

The N.C. letter argues that “under the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, Mr. Trump is constitutionally ineligible to appear on any future ballot for federal office based on his engagement in insurrection against the United States.”

The letter spans 20 pages arguing that Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment, also known as the Insurrectionist Disqualification Clause,

disqualifies Trump from the presidency.

The clause states that “No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previously taken an oath . . . as an officer of the United States . . . to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may, by a vote of twothirds of each House, remove such disability.”

The letter states that Trump’s role in the “January 6 insurrection” makes him ineligible and that “States may enforce Section 3 without any new or special federal legislation.” This is as long as twothirds of Congress does not invalidate Trump’s disqualification.

14th amendment A paper released by the Congressional Research Service noted that although the president is not explicitly included in the provision, the president may fall under the category of “civil officer” which is explicitly included in the provision. The 2021 articles of impeachment by the House of Representatives accepted this view when it cited section three of the Fourteenth Amendment.

Jon Guze, Senior Fellow in Legal Studies at the John Locke Foundation, noted

however that “convincing”

counter arguments have been made from lawyers Josh Blackman and Seth Barrett, in a New York University Journal of Law and Liberty article.

The letter also includes the example of Abdul K. Hassan, a Guyanan-born naturalized U.S. citizen who was disqualified from appearing on the ballot by the NCSBE. A similar case occurred in 2021 when a suit was filed by N.C. voters against the U.S. Representative Madison Cawthorn’s reelection campaign. Free Speech For People was involved in the co-lead counsel challenging Rep. Cawthorn’s ballot access.

During that litigation, North Carolina’s State Board of Elections took the position that they held the authority to enforce section three of the Fourteenth Amendment, defending it in federal court but ultimately losing their case. In May 2022, the Fourth Circuit reversed the previous court’s decisions, however, stating that the Amnesty Act of 1872 did not preclude any further act of disqualification, as Cawthorn had argued. By that time, however, Cawthorn had already lost his primary so the board never sought to resolve the challenge.

Letter of the law

Co-founder and President of Free Speech For People John Bonifaz told CJ that Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment, “was not designed solely to address See DISQUALIFY, Page 10

Former President Donald Trump gestures to the crowd at a recent rally in North Carolina. (photo provided)

How I spent my summer break (the library edition)!

by TRACI POLITT Cherryville Library Branch Manager

Coming up at your Cherryville Branch Library!

LEGO Club – Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

Family Storytime – Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Teen Anime Club – Thursday, Aug. 17, at 4:30 p.m.

Craft & Chat for Adults –

Let’s call

– Library Edition! All right, then…

Summer Reading 2023 has officially ended! Because libraries are all about information and data – and because it’s just fun to do – let’s look at the numbers. All figures were collected over the months of June and July.

Over 3,300 people visited the Cherryville Branch Library this summer.

Some 3,800 items were circulated and almost 500 people used the library’s public computers. We had 64 children, 20 teens, and 30 adults sign up for this year’s Summer Reading initiative and saw around 50 percent finish the program. We offered 37 events for our younger patrons, three (3) for our teens, and two (2) for adults. In all, we had 800-plus attendees for our Summer Reading events – a phenomenal number for a smaller branch!

Finally, over 450 patrons enjoyed our passive offerings of Make-It Monday crafts as well as our weekly Fun Packs. We partnered with other Gaston County departments as well as our own Cherryville Fire Department. We also welcomed our local summer camps and daycare groups, helping those

You CBL had 800-plus attendees for our Summer Reading events – a phenomenal number for a smaller branch! (photos provided) partnerships thrive during the summer break months.

In a nutshell, it was a great summer! And we couldn’t do it without the support of our community.

It’s a true pleasure to serve our town and the patrons who walk through our doors. We hope to bring you more events this fall and we’re already busy planning for next year’s summer fun. If there’s anything you’d like to suggest, please call us at (704) 769-8190, or stop by the branch at 605 E. Main

THANK

ALWS could not thrive in Shelby-Cleveland County.

So, tell these folks “THANK YOU” every chance you get!

Carrigan Family

Carl Dedmon Family

Doug Brown

Patsy Rose

Stuart LeGrand

Marburger Marburger

BACKPACK

From Page 1 and played their hearts out for the Lord as folks came from all around to get a backpack for their kids as well as to get a good hot dog, topped with chili and all the “fixin’s,” courtesy of St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Table of Grace ministries.

Eaker noted the event was opened up by messages from Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, and Councilman Malcolm Parker. Additionally, she said the Cherryville Police and Fire Departments had representatives there as well, along with The Gideons and two Cherryville Boy Scout Troops; 323 and 78.

Eaker noted they had 95 people registered for the backpacks and they did 30 additional ones. or 10 per grade.

“We normally do about 150-plus bags and we do take some to the schools for kids of families who can’t afford them,” she said.

Eaker said she and her fellow volunteers were pleased to see there was a larger turn-out this year than last year.

“We did a drive-through

during the COVID-19 pandemic, and while that was great, it’s nice to be able to see people get out again for things like this,” said Kim.

Two of the hairstylists cutting hair were Megan Harrison and Shannon Hartman of Southern Roots Salon, in Cherryville. They were working on brother, Brantley and Bryce Sparks, who sat quietly as their great-grandparents, Roger and Marla Wylie looked on.

Outside, the Table of Grace crew said happily, the fed the masses, giving out over 144 hot dogs and chili dogs, with all the “fixin’s,” to those who came by to pick up their backpacks and needed some nourishment.

As is usual, there were a number of folding tables set up loaded down with backpacks, and designated with the respective grades (K-12), then there was a table with just generic materials inside for those who didn’t get there in time to go to their particular table setup.

Debbie Gantt, who was manning one of the tables, said it was her first time doing the giveaway and it was very fulfilling to get to see the happy faces of

ROBINSON

the kids and their parents/ grandparents as they came by and picked up a wellfilled backpack of scholastic “goodies.”

Said Gantt, “The schools themselves let us know what they (the kids) need. They told us, by grade levels, what they wanted (the kids to have). We started packing the backpacks on Monday (Aug. 7), and had them ready to go!”

Jill Hudson and Debbie Funderburke, who manned the fourth- and fifth-grade table, said, “This year, it seemed like it wasn’t like it usually was from past years. I think we gave out more generic bags last year.”

While all this was going on, the spiritual songs and uplifting tunes of The Table continued on in the background. That band, incidentally, is comprised of singer Madison Avery; guitarist and singer Elizabeth Bennett; keyboardist (and sometime bassist) Doyle Brown; and bassist Trey Dellinger.

Lutricia Bennett, who knows the band members, said, two of the band’s members were absent that day; they are Holden and Ava Crane.

From Page 1 former state Senator Andy Wells, and recent Forward Party Chairman Jesse Thomas.

In 2022, Robinson endorsed Budd in his bid for the U.S. Senate, much to the dismay of Mark Walker, who had previously endorsed Robinson in his bid for Lt. Governor back in 2020.

“[I am] thrilled to receive [an] endorsement

from Senator Ted Budd, a staunch defender of our constitutional rights and a devoted servant to the people of North Carolina,” Robinson said on social media. “[I am] honored by your trust, Senator Budd!

Let’s keep working for a prosperous NC!”

In the latest polling, Robinson leads Walker 44 percent to 7 percent, followed by Folwell at 4 percent, and 38 percent still undecided.

Despite a large GOP field, the Democrats’ only candidate so far is N.C. At-

torney General Josh Stein. Stein has fundraised an impressive amount so far, over $8 million, although he was recently scammed out of over $50,000 of campaign funds that has not been recovered.

Dan Bishop, who recently announced his run for attorney general, has also endorsed Robinson. Both Robinson and Budd have been staunch Trump allies. Back in April, Budd gave Trump an early endorsement in the Republican presidential primary.

The fantastic volunteers from St. John’s Lutheran’s “Table of Grace” ministry who prepared and served up some fine hot dogs with all the fixin’s at the 2023 school backpack giveaway, sponsored by Cherryville Area Ministries and several Cherryville-area churches. get backpacks.

Boy Scouts of Troop 78 in Cherryville pose with their banner at the start of the Saturday, Aug. 12 backpack giveaway event held at First Wesleyan Church.

You are His Son shine, shining light into the

As a Child of God, you have a simple but amazing calling for your life. Your call is to know Jesus and make Him known to everyone you meet. To put it another way, you are to shine for Jesus and share Him with the world. This is what God chose you for, called you to, and equips you to do.

You may be wondering just how to do this?

The answer is through the power of the Holy Spirit. Before Jesus ascended to Heaven, He gath-

ered His followers and told them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for what the Father had promised. Then Jesus said to His disciples in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” Do not miss this biblical promise where the Holy Spirit empowers you to shine for Jesus and share Him with the world. Yes, it is through the promise of Christ that we will be filled and are made capable to shine in this world! Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” And

A Bumpy Ride

Reality TV and soap operas are tame compared to the family drama that a young man named Joseph experienced. His journey is one of the most interesting and thrilling stories found in the bible and spans over 13 years of his life. It begins with a beautiful, colorful robe and a lovely dream.

Genesis 37:3, 5-7 (NLT), “...one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe. One night Joseph had a dream, and when he told his brothers about it, they hated him more than ever. “Listen to this dream,” he said. “We were out in the field, tying up bundles of grain. Suddenly my bundle stood up, and your bundles all gathered around and bowed low before mine!” He never imagined that what started so wonderfully for him would end up becoming a bumpy rollercoaster ride full of many twists and turns.

FAITHFUL GOD

Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him to the point that they planned to murder him. However, they decided to get rid of him instead, and they sold him into slavery. If that wasn’t enough trouble for him, his master’s wife lied on him, and he was thrown into prison for several years. In addition, he used his God-given gift to accurately interpret the cupbearer’s dream who was also in prison with him. Joseph asked the cupbearer to not forget about him when he became restored to his position. However, a couple of years passed before the cupbearer remembered him. Joseph was lonely, rejected, betrayed, forgotten, and stuck in prison. Through all of these loops, ups, and downs, God didn’t forget Joseph and he showed him his faithfulness. Genesis 39:20b-23 (NIV) “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden….”

NEVER ALONE

Eventually, Joseph overcame all of the challenges; the cupbearer finally remembered Joseph when Pharaoh needed a very important and disturbing dream interpreted. Pharaoh was so impressed with Joseph’s gift and wisdom that he made him the head man in charge only second to Pharaoh. But the saga doesn’t end there, Joseph was reunited with his brothers and doting father. He forgave them and saved the nation. Genesis 50:20 (NLT), “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” There are many lessons we can glean from Joseph’s life, however, the main takeaway is no matter how rough life gets, God is always with us. We are never alone.

Jesus promises that when He comes into your life, you become the light of the world through His Spirit. When the Holy Spirit lives in your human spirit, His light fills your life. That means you have supernatural power to love and live like you never could before. The Spirit of God is within you and He is the same Spirit through Whom Jesus lived a life of perfect righteousness. But the Holy Spirit’s power does not just fill you, He propels you to share Christ with others and to be a witness of His spirit. Shining the light of Jesus by your daily living and actions is wonderful, but the gospel requires words.

Romans 10:14 puts it this way, “How then are they to call on Him in Whom they have not be-

lieved? How are they to believe in Him Whom they have not heard?” You are to be a witness through your life and through your lips. Each of these traits are vitally important. If your walk does not match your talk, you become a hypocrite who says one thing and does another. On the other hand, if you have a godly life but you never tell anybody about the One Who fills you with His love, bystanders will have difficulty understanding where the power comes from. Our call from Christ is clear –we must shine and share. To do that, you need to know the true story of the risen Savior, Jesus Christ. Every Christian should know the gospel story and be able to share it with another person. I know it can

be hard to overcome our fears, shyness, and hesitations, but that is why God gives you power through His Holy Spirit. You are not in this alone! As a believer in Jesus, the Holy Spirit lives in you to empower you to fulfill your Kingdom purpose, which is to shine for Jesus and share Him with the world.

So, my question to you today would be, “Are you shining, and are you sharing Jesus?”

May the Lord bless you and keep you in the days to come. May the Holy Spirit of God move you to shine the light of the Son into the world in which you live.

September Blood Drive at First Presbyterian, Cherryville

The American Red Cross’ semi-annual blood drive will be held on Sept. 7, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 107 W. Academy St., Cherryville. To register online, you may do so at redcrossblood.org, or call Becky at FPC-Cherryville at (704) 308-7768 to register.

Anthony Grove Baptist Church 100 Anthony Grove Road Crouse, NC 704-435-6001

Bess Chapel United Methodist Church 6073 Flay Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-7969

Bethlehem United Methodist Church 6753 NC 182 Highway Cherryville, NC 704-435-1608

Blessed Hope Baptist Church 3357 Fallston-Waco Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-8530

Body of Christ Fellowship Center 405 S. Cherokee Street Cherryville, NC www.bodyofchrist7.com

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Cherryville, NC Pastor Clifton Morgan Cherryville Church of God 810 East Main Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-2275

Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church 318 W. Ballard Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6934

Emmanuel Baptist Church 1155 Marys Grove Church Rd Cherryville, NC 704-435-5764

405 North

Fairview Baptist Church 415 South Mountain Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-4299

First Baptist Church 301 East 1st Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-3796

First Church of the Nazarene 301 North Elm Street Cherryville, NC 828-838-2428

First Presbyterian Church 107 West Academy Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6064

First United Methodist Church 601 N. Pink St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-6732

First Wesleyan Church 800 North Pink Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-6069

Free Saints Chapel Church 813 Self Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-0949

Gospel Way Baptist Church 3904 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Cherryville, NC 866-356-3219

Legacy Church 805 Self Street Cherryville, NC 704-457-9615

Street, Cherryville, NC 704-445-8144

Living Word Ministries 306 East Academy Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-3213

Marys Grove United Methodist Church 1223 Marys Grove Church Rd Cherryville, NC 704-435-5544

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church 235 A.W. Black Street Waco, NC 704-435-8842

Mt. Zion Baptist Church 112 Mt. Zion Church Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-9636

North Brook Baptist Church 7421 Flay Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-4471

Oak Grove AME Zion Church 542 Flint Hill Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3687

Oak Grove Baptist Church 219 Tot Dellinger Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3053

Revival Tabernacle 1104 Delview Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-4073

Rudisill Chapel AME Zion Church 417 South Mountain Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-5621

Second Baptist Church 201 Houser Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-9657

Shady Grove Baptist Church 3240 Tryon Courthouse Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-9605

St. John’s Lutheran Church 310 West Church Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-9264

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 1203 St. Mark’s Church Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-5941

Victory Life Assembly of God 1655 Shelby Highway Cherryville, NC 704-435-5539

Waco Baptist Church 262 N. Main Street Waco, NC 704-435-9311

Washington Missionary Baptist Church 1920 Stony Point Road Waco, NC 704-435-3138

Word of Faith Ministry 306 Doc Wehunt Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-5560

Zion Hill Baptist Church 3460 Zion Hill Road Cherryville, NC 704-435-3355

REV. KEITH HUSS Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cherryville

(Part 3 of “ROLLER COASTERS” Series)

DANYALE PATTERSON

Biden’s new student debt forgiveness plan faces criticism

that failed to keep accurate track of their progress towards forgiveness,” said Secretary of Education Mi-

However Foxx, representing North Carolina’s 5th District, did not buy the administration’s explanation, characterizing it as an attempt to go around the Supreme Court’s recent decision on loan debt.

“The Biden administration’s blatantly political attempt to circumvent the Supreme Court is shameful. The Biden administration is trampling the rule of law, hurting borrowers, and abusing taxpayers to chase headlines,” said Foxx.

U.S. Supreme Court struck down the administration’s previous student debt plan in Biden v. Nebraska. In a 6-3 decision, Chief Justice John Roberts opined that the administration had no legal authority to forgive student loan debt unilaterally and must seek Congressional approval.

Soon after the Supreme Court’s decision, Biden said in a statement that “this fight is not over,” sig-

naling his plan to continue considering avenues to forgive loan debt.

Now, Biden’s SAVE (Saving on A Valuable Education) plan intends to “cut payments” for those who owe student loans through income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, according to the adminis-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 21st of June, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of ANGELO DEL SIGNORE; AKA, ANGELO

FEDELE SIGNORE deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Nadia D. Reynolds, Executrix on or before the 2nd of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of August, 2023.

Nadia D. Reynolds, Executrix

Estate of: Angelo Del Signore; aka, Angelo Fedele Signore

1823 Southridge Dr. Belmont, NC 28012

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

CE (8/02, 09, 16 & 23/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 21st of June, 2023 as Executrix of the

Estate of ANTONINA DEL SIGNORE, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Nadia D. Reynolds, Executrix on or before the 2nd of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of August, 2023.

Nadia D. Reynolds, Executrix

Estate of: Antonina Del Signore

1823 Southridge Dr. Belmont, NC 28012

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

CE (8/02, 09, 16 & 23/2023)

tration. The SAVE plan has become the focal point of the administration’s efforts to relieve student debt.

However, administration officials are characterizing the Education Department’s action not as a part of the SAVE plan, but as an administrative “fix” meant to correct inaccurate IDR payment amounts.

“For far too long, borrowers fell through the cracks of a broken system

“Biden’s student loan scam is far from over. From day one, this administration has encouraged borrowers not to repay their loans and has expected taxpayers to foot the bill. Today’s celebration of counting no payments as payments is just the latest example of the ongoing delusion at the White House,” she added.

According to 2022 Department of Education figures, North Carolina ranks the eighth highest state on the average amount of student debt owed, with the average borrower owing

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF NITA PENDLETON DELLINGER

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Nita Pendleton Dellinger, deceased, of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 106 North Cherry Street, Cherryville, North Carolina, on or before the 2nd day of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of August, 2023.

Frankie Dellinger

Administrator Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (8/02, 09, 16 & 23/2023)

$37,920. An estimated nearly 1.4 million North Carolinians currently owe student loans.

A separate study from WalletHub out this week ranked two North Carolina cities among the ten most educated in the nation, with the state ranking 26th overall for residents’ level of education.

Biden’s plan

According to the U.S. Department of Education, 804,000 borrowers will be forgiven a combined $39 billion in federal student loans. Officials characterize the act as “a result of fixes implemented by the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure all borrowers have an accurate count of the number of monthly payments that qualify toward forgiveness under income-driven repayment (IDR) plans.”

The federal government issues IDR plans in four types and are intended for low income individuals. Officials state that amounts due on IDR plans have been inaccurate, vaguely blaming them on “historic failures.”

The department also said borrowers will be eligible for forgiveness if they have made 20 or 25 years of consistent monthly IDR payments.

Most analysts expect a legal challenge to the $39 billion loan forgiveness. Experts are divided on the legality of the plan, with some believing that the administration’s action will likely withstand legal scrutiny due to differences between Biden’s previous, large-scale debt forgiveness plan that failed Supreme Court judicial review and the act of the Education Department forgiving debt as part of a department-wide “fix.”

However, George Leef, Director of External Relations for the N.C.-based James G. Martin Center for

Academic Renewal, called the move “patently illegal,” in a statement to “Carolina Journal.”

“It is illegal because under the Constitution, the executive branch has no authority to ‘forgive’ any kind of payment that is due to the Treasury,” said Leef. “The powers of the executive are clearly defined and do not include any such authority. Only Congress has the power to change the fundamental terms of student loan repayments.”

Concerns for taxpayers

Last Monday, the Penn Wharton Budget Model released a study stating Biden’s plan to forgive IDR payers through the SAVE plan will cost nearly $559 billion over the next 10 years. This figure exceeds the projected costs of $276 billion previously reported by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

Opponents of the plan, such as Louisiana GOP Senator David Cassidy, characterized it as a “burden” on taxpayers and those who do not owe loans.

Leef lamented the possible effects of Biden’s student loan debt policies going through, stating, “the consequences would be very bad: colleges would increase tuition, taxpayers will have to carry still more of the burden of college costs, and students will have less incentive to study diligently since they will have less of their own money at stake.”

The $39 billion of IDR plan forgiveness is set to go in effect this fall, around the same time student loan repayments start-up again after over two years of a payment freeze due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Having qualified on the 18th day of July, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of Charles Earl Oxford, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 28th day of October, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 26th day of July, 2023.

Jessica Bevil, Ex.

116 Hawk Hollow Lane Shelby, NC 28150

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, Admin. CTA CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

CE (7/26, 8/2, 8/9 & 8/16/2023)

President Joe Biden addressing the crowd at Wolfspeed in Durham, kicking off his Investing in America Tour, March 28, 2023.

American Legion Final Area IV regular season statistics

Cherryville Post 100’s J. Webb led two of the statistical categories in final 2023 NC Area IV’s regular season

by RICHARD WALKER

Pitcher Joseph Webb, a 2022 Burns High graduate, led Area IV in ERA (0.48) and strikeouts (45). Webb also led Area IV in strikeouts in 2022.

Below are the Area IV American Legion 2023 regular season statistical leaders: Note: Statistics provided by area coaches and/or statisticians with statistics not submitted for Matthews, Asheville, Caldwell and Rutherford.

(Ed. note: 11 Cherryville Post 100 players names are in bold)

Batting average (minimum: 20 at-bats) – Kam

Miller, Queen City (18-32) .562; Ryan Bloomingburg, Mint Hill (9-21) .429; Isaiah McDowell, Hickory (17-41) .415; Colton

Mayes, Cherryville (1332) .406; Tyler Nee, Queen City (16-40) .400; Marshall McGowans, Cleveland (1230) .400; Jake Reichert, Queen City (13-33) .394; Landon Burns, Lincoln (14-36) .389; Jacob Hamrick, Cherryville (19-49) .388; Tyler Smart, Cleveland (22-57) .386; Dylan Owenby, G-Braves (17-41) .386; Tanner Kanipe, Hickory (18-48) .375; Myles Gordon, G-Braves (15-40) .375; Ty Frattarolli, Mint Hill (11-30) .367; Matthew Makowski, G-Braves (19-52) .365; Matt Cipriano, Lincoln (10-28) .357; Braxton Hensley, Burke

(16-45) .356; Ryan Hawkins, Queen City (14-40) .350; Trey Walker, Gastonia (7-20) .350; Zane Brockman, Cherryville (24-70) .343; Trig Browning, Queen City (15-44) .341; Garrison Carpenter, G-Braves (15-44) .341; Colby Putnam, Cleveland (15-44) .341; Caden Smith, Lincoln (19-56) .339; Will Fowler, Cherryville (1751) .333; Cam Hull, Mint Hill (9-27) .333; Seth Hartnett, Mint Hill (7-21) .333; Daniel Shuta, Queen City (17-53) .321; Nathan Borchardt, Lincoln (7-22) .318; Jacob Davis, Burke (11-35) .314; Kylan Bolick, Hickory (15-48) .313; Steven Spaes, Cleveland (15-48) .313; Connor Gantt, Cleveland (23-75) .307; Brayson Buff, Burke (11-36) .306; Waylon Rutherford, Burke (7-23) .304; and Gavin Houser, Lincoln (12-40) .300.

Home runs – Brock Fowler, Queen City 3; Daniel Shuta, Queen City 3; Garrison Carpenter, G-Braves 2; Gavin Gibson, G-Braves 2; Carston Green, G-Braves 2; Ryan Hawkins, Queen City 2;

Kam Miller, Queen City 2; Dylan Owenby, G-Braves 2; Ashton Pope, Cherryville 2; Colby Putnam, Cleveland 2; Steven Spaes, Cleveland 2; and several players had 1.

Runs batted in (RBIs) – Tanner Kanipe, Hickory 21; Garrison Carpenter, G-Braves 18; Connor Gantt, Cleveland 17; Zane Brockman, Cherryville 15 ; Dylan Owenby, G-Braves 13; Kam Miller, Queen City 13; Daniel Shuta, Queen City 13; Trig Browning, Browning 12; Gavin Gibson, G-Braves 12; Landon Jenkins, Cherryville 12; Matthew Makowski, G-Braves 12; Ashton Pope, Cherryville 12; Zack Rayfield, Cleveland 12; Will Fowler, Cherryville 11; and Cam Hull, Mint Hill 10.

Pitching record (WonLost-Saves) ; (Minimum: Combination of 2 wins and/or saves) – Ryan Ropp, Cleveland 4-0-0; Parker Dixon, Cleveland 3-0-0; Joseph Webb, Cherryville 2-1-2 ; Eli Newsome, Cherryville 2-1-1; Hunter Reavis, G-Braves

2-2-1; Wyatt Davis, Cherryville 2-2-1; Colby Putnam, Cleveland 2-0-0; Isaiah McDowell, Hickory 2-0-0; Aidan Taylor, Cleveland 2-0-0; Kanon Willis, Cherryville 2-0-0; Matt Asuma, Lincoln 2-10; Caleb Cloninger, Gastonia 2-1-0; Ashton Pope, Cherryville 2-1-0; and Zane Brockman, Cherryville 0-2-2.

Innings pitched Parker Dixon, Cleveland 30 1-3; Joseph Webb, Cherryville 29 1-3; Caleb Cloninger, Gastonia 26; Luke Fickling, Hickory 24 1-3; Ryan Ropp, Cleveland 24 1-3; Jacob Davis, Burke 23 2-3; Tyler Smart, Cleveland 23; Easton Ledford, Hickory 21 2-3; Ramon Trejo, Hickory 20 2-3; Kanon Willis, Cherryville 20 1-3; Wyatt Davis, Cherryville 20; Colin Eckerd, Burke 19 2-3; Chase Stewart, G-Braves 18 1-3; Aidan Bumgardner, Mint Hill 18; Hunter Reavis, G-Braves 18; Brayden Reynolds, Cherryville 18; Cooper York, Gastonia 18; Elijah Miller, Hickory 17 2-3; Nick McGee, Burke 17 2-3; Aidan Taylor,

Cleveland 17 2-3; Eli Newsome, Cherryville 17 1-3; Timon Strader, Mint Hill 17 1-3; Elijah Sutherland, G-Braves 17; Carter Jessen, G-Braves 16 2-3; Zane Brockman, Cherryville 16 1-3 ; Colby Putnam, Cleveland 16 1-3; Maddux Cabbage, Queen City 15; and Kaleb Tischler, Queen City 15.

ERA (Minimum: 15 innings pitched) Joseph Webb, Cherryville 0.48; Colby Putnam, Cleveland 0.49; Aidan Taylor, Cleveland 1.59; Timon Strader, Mint Hill 1.62; Kanon Willis, Cherryville 1.72; Ryan Ropp, Cleveland 1.73; Jacob Davis, Burke 1.78; Hunter Reavis, G-Braves 1.94; Zane Brockman, Cherryville 2.14 ; Aidan Bumgardner, Mint Hill 2.33; Eli Newsome, Cherryville 2.42; Wyatt Davis, Cherryville 2.45; Parker Dixon, Cleveland 2.54; Elijah Sutherland, G-Braves 2.88; Brayden Reynolds, Cherryville 3.11 ; Nick McGee, Burke 3.17; Carter Jessen, G-Braves 3.34; Easton Ledford, Hickory 3.55; Tyler Smart, Cleveland 3.65;Chase Stewart,

G-Braves 3.82; Colin Eckerd, Burke 3.92; Ramon Trejo, Hickory 5.08; Kaleb Tischler, Queen City 5.13; Luke Ficklin, Hickory 5.47; Caleb Cloninger, Gastonia 5.65; Maddux Cabbage, Queen City 6.07; Cooper York, Gastonia 7.00; and Elijah Miller, Hickory 7.13.

Strikeouts Joseph Webb, Cherryville 45 ; Parker Dixon, Cleveland 30; Wyatt Davis, Cherryville 26; Hunter Reavis, G-Braves 25; Tyler Smart, Cleveland 25; Kanon Willis, Cherryville 24; Aidan Bumgardner, Mint Hill 22; Aidan Christmas, Queen City 22; Carter Jessen, G-Braves 21; Elijah Sutherland, G-Braves 21; Maddux Cabbage, Queen City 20; Caleb Cloninger, Gastonia 19; Luke Fickling, Hickory 19; Eli Newsome, Cherryville 19; and Timon Strader, Mint Hill 19.

names its All-State; All-Region players from CHS

NCBCA

WILL FOWLERLANDON HAHN

by RICHARD WALKER CarolinaSportsHub.com

In June 2023 the North Carolina Baseball Coaches Association (NCBCA) released its All-State teams for the completed 2023 baseball season.

The Cherryville players in Class 1A selected were Eli Newsome, Kanon Willis, and Landon Hahn. Several other CHS players are members of

the NCBCA All-Region 6 team. They are Brayden Reynolds and Will Fowler,

CHS Ironmen have two scrimmages last week

Pruitt: Scrimmages a success as both teams got in good work

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Head CHS Ironmen football coach Tim Pruitt said of the team’s recent two scrimmages, “We played Patton High School on Aug. 9. Patton has a new coach in Ryan Goggio. Ryan coached at East Lincoln for several years and was their Defensive Coordinator when they won the 3A State Championship last season. He wanted to do the first part of the season like a practice. We did some inside drills where all plays are runs and pits the offensive front seven with the defensive front seven. We also did seven-on-seven where the teams would pass on every play against the other team’s linebackers and defensive backs.”

Coach Pruitt noted that these two sessions involved both CHS’ varsity and JV players, and he gave some highlights from that group.

Said Pruitt, “In the inside drill we scored three times as Shamyr Moss had a TD run of three yards; Weston Bowers a TD run of 15 yards; and Elijah Proctor a TD run of 15 yards. During defense, the inside drill play was led by Jordan Lowrance, who moved to 'Mike linebacker’ and had multiple tackles. The defensive line was led by many stops by Caleb Hovis and Weston Bowers. During the seven-on-seven drills the Ironmen scored twice as (QB) Josh Ward threw a 10-yard TD pass to Rayshawn Sewell and Andron Patterson connected with Ray on a 5-yard TD pass. The defensive backs were led by Rayshawn Sewell, who had an interception, and there were many break-ups by David Howell and Josh Ward. Amir Starr also was very active at

linebacker.” Pruitt also said, “In the team sessions the Patton JV scored on a short TD run versus the Ironmen and in the varsity scrimmage the starting offense drove the field and scored on a 4-yard touchdown pass from Josh Ward to Rayshawn Sewell.”

All in all, Coach Pruitt said, “The scrimmage was a success as both teams got in good work, stayed healthy and showed great sportsmanship.”

He continued, “The coaching staff would like to thank everyone that worked to prepare Rudisill Stadium for our game; the officials for their work; and Travis Dellinger and the CHS Athletics Boosters for having the concession stand open.”

The Ironmen finished their scrimmage schedule at Fred T. Foard on Saturday morning, Aug. 12, and will kick-off their 2023 season at Avery County on Friday, Aug. 18, at 7:30 p.m.

JOSEPH WEBB COLTON MAYES

LANDON JENKINS

JACOB HAMRICK

ELI NEWSOME

WILL FOWLER

WYATT DAVIS

ASHTON POPE

KANON WILLIS

ZANE BROCKMAN

BRAYDEN REYNOLDS

BRAYDEN REYNOLDS

ELI NEWSOME

KANON WILLIS

(photos by Jhoan Alfaro)

drive transmission. CALL/ TEXT TONY 704-740-6604.

EXPERIENCED SERVICE

TECHNICIAN NEEDED. Shelby

Automotive is looking for a reliable and knowledgeable service technician with a minimum of 5 years experience in the automotive industry. Must possess a valid driver’s license. Experience in luxury vehicles is a plus. Monday-Friday 8am-5pm with paid holidays. Call 704-484-9900 or email resume to bobstill@carolina.rr.com (704) 484-9900 bobstill@carolina.rr.com

PART-TIME NON CDL DRIV-

ER. Needing a NON CDL driver (class C). Part time, 2 to 3 days a week. 24 foot box truck driver. Local deliveries. (828) 2867871 dispatch.hardintrucking@ gmail.com

ONE ON ONE CARE, INC. Is hiring for Day Program Activity Coordinator. Includes some transport. Mon- Fri- 7am-3pm Also hiring for 2nd and 3rd shifts in the Residential homes, rotating schedule. Off every other weekend. If interested, apply at 203 Lee St., Shelby, NC 28150

NOW HIRING LANDSCAPERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

FULL TIME YOUTH /ASSOCI-

ATE PASTOR. Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Forest City NC is seeking a full-time Youth/Associate Pastor. Send resume to mountvernonforestcity@gmail. com or mail to 2676 Hudlow Rd. Forest City, NC 28043 (828) 286-9294 mountvernonforestcity@gmail.com

EXPERIENCED ROOFERS

NEEDED. Must have transportation. Salary based on experience. Call Keith at 704-472-0853.

LAWNCARE HELPER. EXPERIENCED PREFERRED, but not necessary. Drivers license preferred. 704-526-6640.

PART-TIME MINISTER OF MUSIC. Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Forest City NC is seeking a part-time Minister of Music. Send resume to mountvernonforestcity@gmail.com or mail to 2676 Hudlow Rd. Forest City, NC 28043 (828) 286-9294 mountvernonforestcity@gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Reasonable rates. Call or text me at (704) 419-9016

HANDYMAN SERVICES. NOW

IS THE TIME. Over 25 years Exp!

Install Replace Hot water Heaters, Mulching, Trees and Bushes trimmed, Minor Repairs, Ceiling

Fans, Mini Blind Installation, Any Handyman Services. No Job too Big or Small! References available. We will show up and do the job. Call us first, 704-692-4449.

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE

DOORS. Summer Tune-up Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704-477-9119 or 704-4729367.

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48

YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside

SURGE PRESSURE WASHING, INC. House washing starting @$99. surgepwinc.com (704) 2849292

FOR SALE

AUCTIONS

PATTERSON SPRINGS STORAGE AUCTION. PUBLIC SALE - 11:30AM, Aug 31st, 2023 at Patterson Springs Storage, 1826 Creek Ridge Rd., Shelby, NC. Contents of Units: #14 Smarr, #21 Johnson for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 473-7358 andrew. sain@gmail.com

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

NATURALLY UNIQUE AN-

TIQUES & COLLECTIBLES, LLC presents an awesome estate sale Fri., 8/18/23, 2:00pm-8:00pm and Sat., 8/19/23, 9:00am-

FOR SALE

1981 WHEEL HORSE C121. 12 HP, 8 speed, 1783 hours, Kohler engine. $350. 5 HP tiller tines, $1000. 1978 Datsun 280Z, wheels & cover new, $75. (704) 435-3812

MAGGIE VALLEY GET AWAY FOR SALE. Camper home with a large, screened porch with house type roof. Located in center of town. $350 monthly lot rent.

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828-980-0853, 704476-9383.

DOG PEN, 10X10X6, WEATHER TOP, extra gate, dog house, $75. Adjustable basketball goal, $25. 704-739-5032

JOHN DEERE DIESEL TRACTOR $2800. Snapper riding mower $125. Fender, hood & bumper, for 1999-2002 Chevy Silverado, good shape, $200 for all. 5x10 utility trailer $500. Two Yamaha Sea-Doos w/ trailer $3200 for all. 828-305-4941.

“SWIFT SOLUTIONS” TOILET REPAIR EXPERTS! CHOOSE FROM ONE OF BADGER PLUMBING COMPANIES’ COMPREHENSIVE TOILET REBUILD PACKAGES. BASIC REBUILD PACKAGE: $150 (FLAPPER, FILL-VALVE, AND SUPPLY LINE); PREMIUM REBUILD PACKAGE: $225 (FLAPPER, FILL-VALVE, SUPPLY LINE, WAX SEAL, BOLTS TO FLOOR); ULTIMATE CARE

PACKAGE: $350 (FLAPPER, FILL-VALVE, SUPPLY LINE, WAX RING, BOLTS TO THE FLOOR, TANK TO BOWL SEAL). “EXPERIENCE TOP-QUALITY TOILET REPAIR WITH BADGER PLUMBING COMPANY!” “SATISFACTION IS GUARANTEED!” CALL: (980) 403-5859 OR LEARN MORE AT WWW.PLUMBINGBADGER. COM (980) 403-5859 CHARLIE@ PLUMBINGBADGER.COM

MORGAN’S DOWNED TREE REMOVAL. $50 cash for four hours of work per day. Includes hauling brush off. (828) 395-0758

ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & Reliable! (704) 300-2332

CHILD CARE

NOW ENROLLING NC PRE-K.

Must be 4 by August 31st, 2023.

Please inquire at Connected Kids Child Development Center at 600

N. Morgan St, Shelby or call Carol Rikard, Damitra Cannon or Katina Smith at 704-487-5792.

AUCTIONS

CHERRYVILLE MINI STORAGE AUCTION. PUBLIC SALE11:00AM, Aug. 31st, 2023 at Cherryville & Mulberry Storage, 1001

E Main St., Cherryville, NC. Contents of Units: #17 Bolick, #13/14 Ellis for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 473-7358 andrew. sain@gmail.com

2:00pm. MCM furniture, antiques, all household goods and decor, tools, patio furniture, and much more. 695 Branton Drive, Shelby, NC 28152

GARAGE SALE. Sat., Aug. 19th, 8am-11:30am. Fishing Poles & Gear, air compressor, garden tools & supplies, antique bed frames, Christmas door, gas portable grill, shop tools, too much to list. 120 Ann St., Kings Mountain, NC 28086

NEW CAR SHED LOWER PRIC-

ES! Single Car $288 Down from $89 month. Double $395 Down from $123.45 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

STEEL BUILDINGS (OPEN OR FULLY ENCLOSED) 14 on Display. 12’ Wide to 40 EVEN 60 Clear

Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete” TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

TRAILERS, TRAILERS! DUMP

TRAILERS, GOOSENECK, DECK OVER, EQUIPMENT, ALL PURPOSE TRAILERS, CAR HAULERS. Cash, Finance, Credit Cards, Rent to Own (No Credit Check) J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

LOTS OF KIDS STUFF. Sat., Aug. 26th, 2023 from 7:00 AM - ? Lots of kids clothes, kids toys, 10/12. Girls clothes, home decor. 123 J T Drive, Shelby, NC 28150 (704) 689-6568 marielowe92@yahoo. com

INDOOR SALE, AUGUST 18th & 19th. 8am-2pm, XL Lift chair, wheelchair, commode/bath chair, walker, Women’s shoes 9 & 11, clothes 2X-5X, New & used jewelry, piano, furniture, novels, regular & gourmet cookbooks, cookware, vintage snack sets, many items. 203 Skycrest Avenue, Shelby, NC 28152

2 FAMILY YARD SALE KM Sat., Aug 19th, 2023 from 8:00 AM12:00 PM. Everything you can think of. Clothing, decorations, toys, shoes, camping equipment, etc. 423 Bell Road, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

ANTIQUES

UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION.

Tues.-Sat. 11am-4pm. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on Facebook. 828-382-0075.

FOR SALE

Z355E JOHN DEERE MOWER. Call for Price and more info. John Deere Zero Turn 48in Cut. 704473-9030 or 704-473-9866 (704) 473-9030

7 TON GOOSENECK 25 FOOT. Lay Flat Ramp “All Rubber Seal Lights” Tool Box & More! $12,900 OR No Credit Check Rent to Own. From $639 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPOS “BUY, SELL, TRADE!” J Johnson Sales, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

“Must Have Title” J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 5385788

LIVESTOCK TRAILER. Tandem axle trailer, 2 inch ball.10’x5’. $1175 (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

FLEA MARKET ITEMS. I have 2 Utility Buildings Full Of Flea Market Items. Want To Sell The Items. Come See! (828) 223-0050 (828) 223-0050

FOUR CEMETERY PLOTS. Located at Cleveland Memorial Park in Shelby, NC. All four plots are next to sidewalk at the Bell Tower “Great Location”. $1250 each or all four $4500. call (704) 466-8295

HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855

ABSOLUTE AUCTION. New Old Stock Filters of All Kinds Sold by the Pallet. Oil Filters, Fuel Filters, Hydraulic Filters. Lots start closing Wednesday, August 16th, 2023 @ 10 am. Pickup Location: 1009 Spartanburg Hwy Hendersonville, NC 28792. BID ONLINE: WWW. EJ-AUCTION.COM Brands: Quaker

WE’VE GOT THE KNIVES &COINS! Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

SIG SAUER 357 CALIBER Semi automatic stainless steel pistol. $750. (828) 289-1817

Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895 USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/ SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. Keep it dry and safe! 828980-0788 or 828-286-8674.

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-4346389, (704) 473-0867

OLD SCHOOL. GAS JUGS $20

I have 1 gallon and a 2.5 gallon. These are old school filler necks with air release ports. (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

BF GOODRICH T/A TIRES. 4 like new! ( Size 265/70/170) $400 OBO (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

TRAMPOLINE WITH SAFETY NET Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline. Safety Net. Steps for children included. $150. (828) 638-3820 j-shelms@charter.net

593-9649 ejohnson@ej-auction.com

2023 Cherryville Football Schedule

Cherryville Lady Ironmen Volleyball 2023

Cherryville Cross-Country Schedule 2023

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FREE KITTENS. Free to good inside home. Already have 1st vet visit. 704-472-7116

PETS & LIVESTOCK

YORKIE PUPPIES FOR SALE

3F1M. Yorkies 3 females, 1 male, DOB 6/2/23. Not registered. Text 704-418-8800 for more info. Asking 600 each. (704) 418-8800 Sfoster00347@mail.com

CANE CORSO PUPPIES Two litters of Cane Corso Puppies. First litter- June 25th & Second litter- July 4th (706) 872-5276 KJsCorsos@yahoo.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

YORKIE TERRIER. Female, 6 months old. All shots. Asking $900.00 OBO. Comes with other items. 704-297-0063, can leave message.

FOUR ROOSTERS TO GOOD HOME. 5 months old. Negotiable. (828) 429-7486

TOY & MINI AUSSIES. UTD on shots and worming. Blue eyes, paper & crate trained. 828-2896756.

CONTURNIX QUAIL $5. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Bob Whites $8.00. Hatching Eggs. Guineas $10. (704) 4769943 jw28178@gmail.com

CARS & TRUCKS

1997 FORD F-SUPER DUTY CHASSIS CAB Diesel, 5 Speed Manual Transmission, Good Condition! White. 57,300 miles, $10,000 Call (828) 429-5199

2008 HONDA ODYSSEY

Sites. (704) 435-0938

OCEAN LAKES BEACH RENTAL. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 6. Cancellation for Week 6/24-7/1. Summer weeks also available. 704-473-1494.

REAL ESTATE CLEVELAND COUNTY

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. 2 females. Sophie and Lily. Born March 24, 2023. Shots and dewormed. CKC registered. $400 each. (704) 477-4341

FREE KITTENS. Free kittens to a good inside home. I have 2 female gray tabby kittens about 12 weeks old. Call after 4:00 pm please. (828) 201-3861

2 BOXER MIX MALES. 9 months old, $150 each. 704-466-6983.

LARGE STANDARD SIZE LABRADOODLE PUPS. Beautiful rust, black, blonde, and white pups family raised. Shots and wormed. Dad registered poodle, mom is f1 Labradoodle. 6 weeks old and ready to go next week. 4 females 5 males. (704) 974-6760 susan.mccraw55@ gmail.com

AKC REGISTERED WEST

HIGHLAND TERRIER. 9 weeks old health guaranteed. Vet checked .1 male 1 female (864) 706-6158 vbragg3@gmail.com

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES

FOR SALE Rare black with a little marking on legs. Ready for their new home. Had shots and wormed. Wonderful companion. Sell or trade. No answer, leave message. 828-675-4968.

AKC/CKC BOXER PUPPY.

$225. Female Boxer pup, 7 months old. Papers, tail docked, shots worming. Location: Shelby, NC must go. (704) 477-3900 wbmanning33@gmail.com

2 MINIATURE PINSCHERS. 5 months old, 1 male, 1 female, housebroke. $250 each. 704466-6983.

BLUE TICK BEAGLE PUPPIES, AKC Registered Oakhill Weircreek Cross. Parents on site. 2 sets of shots and wormed. Ready by Aug. 9th. $400/ea. 704-692-6787. CHINCHILLAS FOR SALE. I have a Beautiful pair of Chinchillas For Sale. The Male is a Mosaic White and the Female is a Blue /Grey they come with a 3 level Critter Nation Cage with all the accessories including food bowls, water bottles, nesting boxes, hammock, shelves, exercise wheel, extra food and hay also the cage is on wheels but you will need a truck to haul it home. $100.00 (experienced Chinchilla owners preferred) (828) 205-3133 lowman.edward@yahoo.com

DOG KENNELS 5X10, 10X10, 10X20. Dog Houses, Tops for Kennels. “Delivery & Setup Available” J Johnson Sales 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

MORKIE PUPPIES. Adorable yorkshire terrier/maltese babies ready for their new homes. Very sweet personalities will make excellent family companions. First vaccination and wormings started on pee pad training. Text for more information (828) 284-4621 llmrwm2003@gmail.com

FULL-BLOODED GERMAN

SHEPHERD PUPPIES. 9 weeks. No papers. Parents on site. Black and tan. Ready now. 828-748-9614, 828-460-8187.

KOI FISH FOR SALE. 2”-4” all colors; wholesale price $1. each- minimum 25 fish. (864) 546-2778 brendasherman9@ gmail.com

COMPLETELY RENOVATED HOME ON QUIET STREET. Close to Shelby High School. 3 Bd 2 Bth. 408 Morton Street, Shelby, NC 28152 (281) 2223091 benjamin.henry@cbrealty.com

FOR SALE BY OWNER. 3 BR, 2 BA Brick House, 1,371 sq.ft. corner lot. As is $20,500. 704812-8247

PRICES REDUCED MOBILE HOME LOTS. In Cleveland & Rutherford Counties. Some with water & septic. Owner financing with low down payments. Call Bryant Realty, (704) 567-9836

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments, 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby, NC or call for more information 704-487-1114.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income se-

HADDOCK

From Page 1

Service Learning Center in Lumberton, NC.”

Haddock noted he and his wife were married in Charlotte in June of this year (2023), and added, “She is originally from Union County and has joined Dr. Megan Raynor at Mint Dental, a practice in Harrisburg. It is a bit closer to where she grew up and still has friends and family. Funnily enough, we discovered that the practice where Halie is working was originally started by my now coworker and colleague at Cloninger Dentistry, Dr. Delores Hammer! Small world!”

Dr. Haddock noted that he and his wife have to travel in order to get to work from their home in Charlotte, which he described as “...a bit closer to my family actually.”

He continued, “Halie and I drive opposite directions in the mornings and our home is almost halfway in between our respective practices.”

The couple have no children at this time, said Dr. Haddock, though he

was quick to point out they have a “fur baby,” their Golden Retriever, Cooper.

“Halie actually got Cooper just before I met her and just before dental school. I am very fortunate that he has decided to adopt me! And he turns six (6) on Aug. 17! He is our only pet for now, but things could change,” said Dr. Haddock. So far as hobbies and other interests, Dr. Cooper said he supports the Carolina Panthers, the Charlotte FC and Manchester United FC football (soccer, to all of us here in NC) clubs. Additionally, he noted he enjoys spending time outdoors or on the water, playing golf, and restoring and showing classic cars with his father.

For his part, Dr. Haddock said, “I am excited to become a trusted provider within the Cherryville community.”

Dr. Haddock said of his wife, Halie, also a dentist, “She is really passionate about photography and she is who I have to thank for my professional headshots. She also cares deeply for helping animals and pets in need. I like to spend my

free time working on cars or fishing if I can. I have also been practicing yoga recently. We try to get outside whenever we can, and love spending time in the sun, on the water, or at the beach.”

Haddock noted he is not currently practicing anywhere else except but in Cherryville.

Of Dr. Charles L. Haddock, DMD, Dr. Paul Cloninger said, “He’s a great guy and very knowledgeable. He loves what he does and is excited to get to know his patients and help them. I am looking forward to working with Dr. Haddock, and I am glad to have him as a part of Cloninger Dentistry.”

Doctor Haddock can be reached – as can the other dentists at Cloninger Dentistry – by phone at (704) 435-6916, or via email at charleshaddock13@ gmail.com or by going to their web site at cloningerdentistry.com.

DISQUALIFY

From Page 2 ex-Confederates. It was designed to address future insurrectionists as well. And Donald Trump is the Jefferson Davis of our time, and he must be barred from the ballot.”

Guze maintains that, although the 14th amendment was written and ratified following the Civil War, “it’s not at all clear that the Capital Invasion constituted an “insurrection or rebellion.” The fact that the letter makes frequent comparisons to the disqualification of Confederate officers and soldiers is both appropriate and telling . . . to compare what happened on

Jan. 6, 2021, with secession and civil war is laughable.”

Dr. Andy Jackson, Director of the Civitas Center for Public Integrity, agrees.

“Free Speech for People has no legal basis for the challenge since President Trump has not been found to have been in rebellion or insurrection by any court, and the North Carolina State Board of Elections is not competent to issue such a finding on its own,” said Jackson. “A similar challenge based on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s eligibility in Georgia failed in 2022. In that challenge, Free Speech for the People failed to produce sufficient evidence to prove

By JIM MILLER Editor

that she had committed insurrection. They have no more evidence against Trump,” he added.

Guze similarly called the challenge “performative” and said that Trump could almost certainly mount a successful challenge if forced to do so.

“Even if one could characterize some of the events of Jan. 6 as an ‘insurrection’ it’s not at all clear that Trump was ‘engaged’ in those events,” said Guze. “The Democrats had a chance to show that he was during the impeachment proceedings and failed miserably. Given how unlikely it is to succeed on the merits, I’m inclined to think this is more of a stunt than a serious attempt to keep Trump off the ballot.”

How Does Medicare Cover Preventive Health Services?

Dear Savvy Senior,

How does Medicare cover preventive health screenings? I’m due to get a physical and a colonoscopy this year, but I want to find out what I’ll have to pay for before I go in.

Just Turned 65

Dear Just Turned,

You’ll be happy to know that Medicare covers a wide array of preventive and screening services to help you stay healthy, but not all services are completely covered. Here’s what you should know.

Free Preventive Benefits

Most of Medicare’s preventive services are available to all beneficiaries (through Part B) completely free with no copays or deductibles, as long as you meet basic eligibility standards. Mammograms; colonoscopies; shots against flu, pneumonia, COVID-19 and hepatitis B; screenings for diabetes, depression, osteoporosis, HIV, various cancers and cardiovascular disease; and counseling to combat obesity, alcohol abuse, and smoking are just some of Medicare’s lengthy

list of covered services. But to get these services for free, you need to go to a doctor who accepts Medicare “on assignment,” which means he or she has agreed to accept the Medicare approved rate as full payment.

Also, the tests are free only if they’re used at specified intervals. For example, cardiovascular screening blood tests once every 5 years; or colonoscopy, once every 10 years, or every two years if you’re at high risk.

Medicare also offers a free “Welcome to Medicare” exam with your doctor in your first year, along with annual “Wellness” visits thereafter. But don’t confuse these with full physical examinations. These are prevention-focused visits that provide only an overview of your health and medical risk factors and serve as a baseline for future care.

Cost Sharing Services

There are, however, a few Medicare preventive services that do require some out-of-pocket cost sharing. With these tests, you’ll have to pay 20 percent of the cost of the service after

you’ve met your $226 Part B yearly deductible. The services that fall under this category include glaucoma tests, diabetes self-management trainings, barium enemas to detect colon cancer, and digital rectal exams to detect prostate cancer.

For a complete list of services along with their eligibility requirements, visit Medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-screening-services.

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, your plan is also required to cover the same preventive services as original Medicare as long as you see in-network providers.

Hidden Costs

You also need to know that while most of the previously listed Medicare services are free, you can be charged for certain diagnostic services or additional tests or procedures related to the preventive service. For example, if your doctor finds and removes a polyp during your preventive care colonoscopy screening, you will pay 15 percent of the doctor’s service fee. Or, if

during your annual wellness visit, your doctor needs to investigate or treat a new or existing problem, you will probably be charged here too.

You may also have to pay a facility fee depending on where you receive the service. Certain hospitals, for example, will often charge separate facilities fees when you are receiving a preventive service. And you can also be charged for a doctor’s visit if you meet with a physician before or after the service.

To eliminate billing surprises, talk to your doctor before any preventive service procedure to find out if you may be subject to a charge and what it would be.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Dr. Charles L. Haddock, DMD, the newest dentist in the Cloninger Dentistry practice in Cherryville, demonstrates his technique on Dental Assistant Brandy Hamilton. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Checking out a patient’s dental issues on the computer is all part of the typical day for any dentist. New dentist, Dr. Charles L. Haddock, looks for any glaring problems in the x-rays

Dr. Charles L. Haddock with Dr. Paul Cloninger. Together with Dr. Delores Hammer, who fills in on a part-time basis, the three provide stellar dental care to the people of Cherryville.