Cherryville Eagle 10-26-22

Fall wildfire season underway in NC; public urged to use caution

Cherryville’s AFC Heffner agrees; also urges caution when burning this season

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

A recent media release from the USDA Forest Service and the NC Forest Service both agree that with the impending arrival of fall wildfire season, they are “… reminding the public to exercise caution when engaging in recreational burning.”

Additionally, Assistant Fire Chief for the Cherryville Fire Department, Colby Heffner, also urges citizens to be cautious as well, and to be vigilante if they see any signs of smoke coming from any back yards or stands of trees, especially within the city’s limits.

The Forest Service officials stated in their information, “Peak months for the fall fire season run from October through early December and fires left unattended can get out of hand quickly, becoming wildfires that may threaten lives and

See WILDFIRE, Page 2

CHS’ Montgomery longest serving sports “ball boy” in state of NC

Works with Ironmen football, basketball, baseball; worked NC/ SC Shrine Bowl

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Lee Roy Montgomery is a living, breathing sports icon and not just for his beloved Ironmen; he is an icon who can claim a unique title: he is the longest serving sports “ball boy” in the state.

By his own estimation, he figures there are just a few guys like him still doing their unique and strenuous job. If you don’t believe it’s strenuous, try getting out on the field or on the court at every game for as many years as Lee Roy and his fellow ball retrievers have and see how you fare. You have to be an athlete yourself just to keep up with Lee and guys like him.

No doubt about it; Lee Roy Montgomery is a oneof-a-kind, top-notch lover of all things Ironmen sports and will look you in the eye and flat out tell you, “I love my job!” and mean every word of it!

And his fans (and, yes… he has many of them!) love

him too. Just listen to them yell for him any time he runs out onto the field or puts the basketball men through their pre-game routine at Nixon Gym. They. Love. Him!

For Lee Roy, the title “ball boy” is an appellation of great honor and he wears it proudly. The umpires and referees all know that when he is on the job, the job IS his number one priority. If he isn’t there, for whatever reason, they all want to know where he is, and God help the coach or person who doesn’t have a good explanation for where he is and why he isn’t there.

Recently, Lee Roy was asked how long he has been the ball boy for CHS, as well as a few other questions. The following is what he said about his long and storied career.

When asked when he exactly stared his job and with what sport, or coach, Lee said, “Since 1979, when I was in high school. I started doing it for Coach Buddy Bridges. I’ve worked with football, basketball, and baseball. Coach Bridges asked a friend of mine if I could help us out. I said ‘yes’.”

Though both of Lee’s parents have passed away in the

longest serving ball boy/ manager in NC high school sports, Lee Roy added, “I had the privilege of being selected to work the Shrine Bowl for the NC and SC game for five years. This was a great honor for me and for Cherryville.

Some of Lee’s great memories or highlights as the Ironmen ball boy and man-

always calling me wanting me to get them a ticket and help them get in the game. Baseball state championships were always great memories for me. The year we beat Whiteville was an awesome experience.”

Lee Roy said, “I want to thank all my coaches

Spooky Halloween decorations a labor of love for the little ones

Cherryville’s oldest resident to celebrate her first birthday party

Somerset Court resident Lorene Summey about to turn 105 in style

Lorene Summey is gearing up to celebrate her very first birthday party in all her 105 years.

She was born on Nov. 23 in 1917, which means she’s the oldest person in Cherryville, and Gaston, Lincoln counties.

Summey said she’s never had a birthday party and See SUMMEY, Page 4

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Angela Price of Cherryville knows there are many folks in town who decorate their houses every Halloween with every one being unique in some form or fashion.

But she feels all the work she and her sister have done this year in decorating her house at 604 N. Styers Street is a special labor of love from two ladies who really love seeing the joyous looks on the faces of little trick-or-treaters whenever they come by on that one special night at the end of October.

Price said, “I’ve been decorating my house since 2010. Every year I always add more stuff. I’ve always done my decorations myself until this year. (My sister) Lisa Powell of Morganton helped me set everything up.”

She continued about their

shared love for the holiday, “We both have always liked Halloween and love seeing people dress up and love the attention it brings to people, and we love seeing people’s reactions. (We) just simply love doing it and making others smile.”

Price said the mechanically-operated “monsters” belong to her sister, who has had them for years, adding,

“But, they are old, and some were torn up. So, Lisa used her great crafting skills and added bugs, spiders, using a hot glue gun, stains for hands and faces, added paint for blood and re-did some of the outfits using landscape fabric cutting them in shreds (for looking creepy). She also used creepy cloths and draped this over their shoulders as well.”

About their yard display Angela noted that it has “…a lot of hard work and dedication in it,” adding, “My sister has the mindset and crafting skills to make it that extra creepy for the Halloween season. There was a lot of extra work, time, money (in it) just to show to everyone here in Cherryville how much we

ager include the time CHS ble-overtime going into the playoffs in the late ‘90s, as well as the time the Ironmen beat the number three team

Said Lee, “Those were some great wins! We went to

ketball, (great) memories was back in the rival days of Cherryville and East Lincoln in 2007 and 2008; memories of the Shelby and Cherryville games in the early 2000’s; standing room only and the gyms would always be sold out. I can remember people

Angela Price and her sister, Linda Powell, really get into the spirit of the holiday

Lee Roy Montgomery, the longest serving ‘ball boy’ in NC sports, on the sidelines at a recent CHS Ironmen football game at Rudisill Stadium, watching where the game ball is and waiting to go out onto the field – when needed – and switch it out. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Photo from the Chestnut Knob Fire, which started on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016 at 8 a.m., in South Mountain State Park, 10 miles south of Morganton, NC.

(photo courtesy NC Forest Service)

Angela Price’s house at 604 N. Styers St., in Cherryville, has gobs of ghosts, goblins, witches and other ‘haints’, all waiting for the little trick-or-treaters who will come by on Halloween night. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Decked out in her cowboy hat and bandanna, Lorene Summey inspects her latest batch of birthday cards. Summey has asked to receive 105 birthday cards to commemorate her 105th birthday – and she’s dressing the part for her Hoedown Barn Dance-themed birthday party, which is set for Friday, Nov. 18.

(photo provided by Somerset Court of Cherryville)

Geraldine Stephens

LAURINBURG, NC –Geraldine Brooks Stephens, 75 of Laurinburg, went home to Jesus on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022. Born June 7, 1947 in Scotland County, she was the daughter of Lacy Lee Brooks, Sr. and Mary Magdalene (Maggie) Brooks. Geraldine was a 1966 graduate from Cherryville High School.

She loved spending time with her friends and family and enjoyed painting and crafting. In addition to her parents, Geraldine was preceded in death by her sisters, Peggy Brazelton and Becky Brittan.

Geraldine is survived by her husband, Ronald Smith, of Laurinburg, NC; daughter, Angela McDowell (Doug), of Mount Holly, NC; daughter, Sandy Mosteller (Roger), of Lincolnton, NC; two grandchildren, Wesley Mosteller, of Lincolnton, NC; and Kelsey Boitnott (Bryan) of Wilmington, NC; her siblings, Edna Rigby, Georgia Watts, Lacy Brooks Jr., and Arthur Brooks; and her three ‘grand-dogs’, Lucy, Ripples and Oliver.

Memorial services were held Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 at Mt. Beulah Pentecostal Holiness Church in Rockingham, NC.

Simple Service of Gastonia served the family of Mrs. Stephens.

Joint band concert at Starnes on Oct. 29

The Gaston Symphonic Band, in collaboration with the Cherryville High School Band, will put on a joint concert. The concert will be

WILDFIRE

From Page 1 property. Escaped fires due to careless backyard burning continue to be the leading cause of wildfires in North Carolina.”

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said, “Fall weather and the beautiful changing foliage in North Carolina draws people outdoors to take in activities such as camping, hiking or working in their yards to dispose of leaves and other yard debris. When choosing to build a campfire, grill out in your yard or eliminate leaves by burning, it is important that you remain vigilant and safe with any outdoor fire to protect our forests. You are our best defense against wildfires.”

He continued, “Always exercise caution with any outdoor burning. Even when burn bans are not in effect, weather conditions may not be favorable for outdoor fires. Outdoor burning is discouraged during periods of low humidity or high winds.”

Stats for fiscal year 2021-2022 noted there were “… 6,887 wildfires that burned 26,958 acres in North Carolina,” adding that only one percent of those wildfires were directly linked to a natural ignition source such as lightning.

“The other 99 percent of wildfires during that span were directly related to human activity. Some of the state’s most intense wildfires during the fall of 2021 were caused by escaped campfires, noted USFS officials.

Colby Heffner, Cherryville’s Assistant Fire Chief, said, “The Cherryville Fire Department allows Recreational Fires without permit and open burning for yard cleanup with the issuance of a permit. The permit is $5 and it is purchased at the fire department. Only material that has originated on the actual property may be burned. Leaves are not allowed to be burned because the City of Cherryville provides a pickup service for leaves from Oct. 1 through Feb. 1 each year. Each per-

held at Starnes Auditorium on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 6:30 p.m. The concert is free and donations will go the Cherryville High School Band.

mitted burn must be performed no earlier than 8 a.m., and no material can be added to the burn past 6 p.m.”

AFC Heffner continued, “All burning must be done at a minimum of 50 feet away from buildings and lot lines. It is important for the resident who is burning the material to notify surrounding neighbors as a courtesy so they can be aware. If the state issues a burning ban, this voids the city-issued burning permit. It is also required there be a water supply (garden hose) readily available anytime one participates in an open burn. Finally, if complaints are called in, the fire department will visit the site for an investigation, and possibly extinguish the fire.”

In November 2021, the Sauratown Mountain Fire in Stokes County burned more than 40 acres but required 16 days to control and fully contain due to the steep and difficult terrain.

Shortly after on Nov. 27, 2021, the Grindstone Fire, the largest wildfire during North Carolina’s 2021 fall wildfire season, ignited at Pilot Mountain State Park in Surry County and eventually burned 1,050 acres. Both incidents were caused by escaped campfires.

For those who choose to burn, the N.C. Forest Service offers the following tips, via the media release:

Make sure you have a valid permit. You can obtain a burn permit at any N.C. Forest Service office or authorized permitting agent, or online at https:// www.ncforestservice.gov/ burn_permits/burn_permits_main.htm; Don’t burn on dry, windy days; Keep your fire small, not tall; Be sure you are fully prepared before burning. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. Keep a phone nearby, too; Never use kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to speed up burning; Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfires thoroughly with water. Drown all embers, not just the red ones. When soaked, stir the coals and soak them again. Make sure everything is wet and that embers are cold to the

Cherryville man charged with home break-in, vehicle theft in Lincoln County

On Friday, Oct. 21, 2022 a Cherryville man, DeBoyce Davis, was been charged in connection with an Oct. 20, 2022 break-in to a residence in the 3300 block of Long Shoals Road.

Deputies were dispatched to the scene after a relative who lives nearby reported the front door and basemen door to the home which was unoccupied were standing open. A check of the residence revealed rooms had been ransacked and as many as six firearms had been stolen. A 1993 Chevrolet Suburban was also stolen from an

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

10-9: Mark Anthony Mull, 52, 731 Lark Glenn Rd., Mooresville; one count misdemeanor injury to personal property. $5,000 unsecured bond. Subject was arrested w/o incident at victim’s address. He was intoxicated at the time of the arrest.

10-11: Nathanel Rolland Gilbo, 34, 502 W. School St., Maiden; one count felony parole warrant, and two counts of misdemeanor larceny and injury to personal property (all WSOJ’s from GCPD and DPS Probation/ Parole officers). Taken into custody/no bond amt./type set.

10-11: Kelly Wayne Webb, 42, 410 N. Cherry St., Cherryville; one count misdemeanor WSOJ/Gastonia PD, and one count WSOJ (misdemeanor). Vehicle (2010 white Hyundai Sonata) left at scene and secured. $2,000 secured bond.

10-14: Michael Alvin Punch, 39, 416 North Pine St., Cherryville; WSOJ (Lincoln County). $15,000 secured bond.

10-17: Melissa Lee Winstead, 39, 1409 Shelby Hwy., Cherryville, was arrested at 425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia by GCSO deputies on one count of a warrant from another agency.

10-19: Jessie James Estes, 50, 125 Beam St., Cherryville, was arrested at 210 S Chester St., Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on one count of a warrant from another agency.

10-19: Joseph McClain, 50, 309 S. Mountain St., Cherryville, was arrested at 1105 Bessemer City Rd.,

touch. If you do not have water, mix enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire, being careful not to bury the fire. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area; Never leave your fire; and Stay with it until it is completely out.

The USDA Forest Service offers the following guidelines for safely extinguishing campfires and helping to prevent wildfires: Allow the wood to burn completely to ash, if possible; Pour lots of water on the fire, drown ALL embers, not just the red ones; Pour until the hissing sound stops; Stir campfire ashes and embers with a shovel; Scrape the sticks and logs to remove any embers; Stir and make sure everything is wet and

Gastonia, by Gastonia PD officers on one count each of traffic/all other and traffic/ revoked OL.

10-20: Tripper Damien Scism, 41, 125 Gatewood Ave., Lawndale; one count of a WSOJ/parole warrant (NC DPS probation/parole). No bond as he was taken into custody by arresting officer.

INCIDENTS

10-7: Lincolnton woman reports call for service as listed suspect took money from her bank account. Case status: inactive.

10-9: Cherryville woman reports injury to personal property by unnamed male suspect who damaged her vehicle. Est. damage to front and rear windows of Chevy Impala: $600. Closed/ cleared by arrest.

10-11: CPD officer reports WSOJ on listed subject who had outstanding warrants. Closed/cleared by arrest.

10-11: CPD officer reports WSOJ on listed subject who had outstanding warrants. Closed/cleared by arrest.

10-11: CPD officer reports larceny by listed suspect who took listed items from victim’s house. Est. total cost of stolen items: $195. Case is active and under investigation.

10-13: GCPD officers report further investigation into an incident of pornography/obscene material and all other at 313 Ridge Ave., Cherryville.

10-14: CPD officer reports WSOJ on listed subject for outstanding warrants. Closed/cleared by arrest.

10-15: Cherryville man and woman report theft from

outbuilding on the property.

A BOLO (Be on the Lookout) was sent out to neighboring law enforcement agencies in a 50-mile radius of Lincoln County. While still on the scene, deputies were informed that Cherryville Police had the vehicle stopped in the Walmart parking lot on NC Highway 150. Officers had two people who were in the vehicle in custody.

The driver, identified as Mr. Davis, 28, of Cherryville, was charged with fel-

ony breaking and entering a building, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods, larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen vehicle, and felony possession of a firearm. He was taken before a Lincoln County magistrate and placed in the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center under a $30,000 secured bond. The passenger was interviewed and released and the vehicle was returned to the owner.

The investigation into the incident is continuing.

a motor vehicle by unknown person(s) who took his wallet from his vehicle. Stolen: debit/credit cards; $1,000 in currency, and OL. Case is active and under further investigation.

10-15: CPD officer reports CFS/barring notice on listed suspect who was on victim’s property after being asked to leave. Closed/ cleared by other means.

10-17: Cherryville woman reports B&E and burglary by unnamed suspects who broke into her property. Case is active and under further investigation.

10-18: GCPD officers report further investigation into a simple assault and disorderly conduct/disturbing the peace incident at 515 Park Dr., Cherryville.

10-19: Cherryville man reports theft from motor vehicle and B&E of a motor vehicle by unnamed suspects who broke into vehicles. Est. value of stolen items: $290/ mechanical items/tools. Case is active and under further investigation.

10-19: CPD officer reports possession of marijuana up to ½ ounce by listed subject who possessed controlled substance. Seized: 1.50 grams of marijuana. Closed/cleared by arrest.

10-20: CPD officer reports WSOJ for unnamed suspect who had an outstanding warrant. Closed/ cleared by arrest.

10-20: Cherryville woman reports damage to property by listed suspect who damaged her vehicle. Est. damage to vehicle (Ford Ecosport): $500. Case is active and under further investigation.

WRECKS 10-13: A vehicle driven by Michael Lee Greene, 52, 5919 Dallas – Cherryville Hwy., Bessemer City, was backing up in the parking lot of Ace Hardware when he backed into a vehicle driven by Cherylene Jefferies, 63, 2748 Clineland Rd., Trl. 3, Cherryville, which was parked in a spot at the time of the collision. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Greene vehicle: $0; to the Jefferies vehicle: $700.

10-16: A vehicle driven by Teresa Montgomery Smith, 62, 1850 Stony Point Rd., Shelby, and a vehicle driven by Karen Sue Pruitt, 55, 709 Pierce Ave., Mount Holly, collided at S. Mulberry St., and Old Post Rd., in Cherryville. The responding officer noted in his report the Pruitt vehicle was stopped at the intersection when the Smith vehicle made a tight turn onto S. Mulberry St., contacting the front driver-side corner of the Pruitt vehicle. Ms. Smith told the R.O. she had made too tight of a turn. No injuries reported. Damages to both vehicles listed a minor.

10-17: Catherine Christine Williams, 21, 715 W. Zion Church Rd., Shelby, was traveling east on Church St., and told the responding officer that when she applied the brake it didn’t stop her vehicle. She then collided with a vehicle driven by Sherry Darlene Martin, 57, 769 Hulls Grove Church Rd., Vale, who was in front of her on that same road. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Williams vehicle: $3,500; to the Martin vehicle: $1,500.

that embers are cold to the touch; If you do not have water, use dirt. Pour dirt or sand on the fire, mixing enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire; Continue adding or stirring until all remaining material is cool; and Do

NOT bury the fire as the fire will continue to smolder and could catch roots on fire that will eventually get to the surface and start a wildfire.

To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and loss of property,

visit www.ncforestservice. gov and www.smokeybear. com. For more information and tips to help create a defensible space around your home and protect your property from wildfire, visit www.resistwildfirenc. org.

DEBOYCE DAVIS

Photo from the Chestnut Knob Fire, which started on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016 at 8 a.m., in South Mountain State Park, 10 miles south of Morganton, NC. (photo courtesy NC Forest Service)

In-person early voting in N.C. began last Thursday

Bipartisan

by DONNA KING Carolina Journal

On Thursday morning, Oct. 20 voters across North Carolina began casting their ballot for the 2022 midterm elections. The early voting period ends on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 3 p.m.

The N.C. State Board of Elections increased the number of early voting sites this year, with 359 sites open across the state compared to 307 in 2020. The state reports 65 percent of voters cast their ballot in person during the early voting period that year.

“The 100 county boards of elections have spent months preparing for the start of in-person voting for the important 2022 general election,” said Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the State Board of Elections. “The bipartisan election officials who work in each early voting site are prepared for a smooth voting process and to ensure the ballots of all eligible voters are counted.”

Before heading to the polls, voters can find their sample ballot at the NCSBE website. In 2016, nearly 1 million people who cast a presidential ballot did not vote in the N.C. Supreme Court race, and this year those Supreme Court races are pivotal. Under state law, people may register and vote at the same time during the early voting period. Those who requested an absentee ballot may also deliver it to an early voting site in their county. Curbside voting is also available for eligible individuals at all early voting sites.

Among the most closely watched races in the nation, North Carolina’s contest for U.S. Senate between Republican Ted Budd and Democrat Cheri Beasley has remained tight. In recent weeks, polls show Budd appears to be gaining ground over Beasley, with one new poll giving him a 6 percent edge. Budd also announced this week that his campaign enters the last few weeks having raised more than $4.7 million in the third quarter. The Budd campaign has $2.9 million cash on hand. Dem-

ocrats have donated heavily to secure the Senate seat for Beasley. Raising more than $13 million in the last three months, Beasley now has the second-largest campaign war chest ever in North Carolina, behind Democrat Cal Cunningham, who lost to incumbent Sen. Thom Tillis in 2020. However, the Beasley campaign has also outspent Budd, nearly 4-to-1.

Other very closely watched races include two N.C. Supreme Court seats. The state’s highest court has a 4-3 Democrat majority coming into November.

If Republicans flip one of the seats, it would lean Republican. In the two races, Democrat candidates Lucy Inman and incumbent Samuel “Jimmy” Ervin IV are out-raising their Republicans opponents, but Republican candidates Trey Allen and Richard Dietz are outperforming Democrats in polls.

While high inflation and slowed growth under the Biden administration stoked Republicans’ messaging, the races have remained tight.

Still, N.C. voters appear to be breaking right faster that the national trends. According to recent polls, N.C. Republicans perform better on the generic ballot than their own party in the national polls. Fewer North Carolinians (26 percent) also believe the country is on the “right track” than many national opinion polls. President Biden’s low popularity is even lower in North Carolina than nationally.

Just one of North Carolina’s congressional races was considered competitive going into campaign season. District 13, south of the capital city of Raleigh, has Republican newcomer Bo Hines facing Democrat state

Sen. Wiley Nickel. Nickel does not live in the district, and Hines moved to the district following his endorsement from Donald Trump. In District 1, Republican Sandy Smith faces another Democrat state senator, Don Davis. The district was previously held by longtime Congressman G.K. Butterfield, who repeatedly won his seat, often by more than 70 percent. the race is labeled “lean Democrat,” meaning it is competitive but favors the Democrat. If Republican turnout is heavy, this advantage may disappear.

All seats in the N.C. General Assembly are also on the ballot this year, with Republicans expected to hold onto House and Senate majorities, but working to regain supermajorities. Republicans need 72 seats in the House and 30 in the Senate to secure a supermajority. That means the GOP needs a net pickup of three seats in the House and two seats in the Senate.

A supermajority is important because it means lawmakers could pass legislation and ostensibly override the veto stamp of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. Lawmakers and Cooper have been at a stalemate over a variety of issues since 2019 due to the governor’s veto.

“The context for this year’s election is similar to that of 2010, when Democrats lost over 1,000 legislative seats across the nation,” said David McLennan, a political science professor at Meredith College in Raleigh. “The president is unpopular, and a large percentage of people see the country moving in the wrong direction.”

To find out more on the upcoming elections go to https://vt.ncsbe.gov/ RegLkup/.

School buses still running in NC despite concerns for engine fire

Analysis by the N.C. Watchdog Reporting Network of fuel sample records from school buses with MaxxForce engines shows elevated levels of fuel in the oil more than one third of the time

by NC WATCHDOG REPORTING NETWORK Carolina Public Press

Bus 168 was finishing its route dropping off children from Cloverleaf Elementary School in Statesville in May 2021 when the driver and bus monitor noticed smoke coming from the engine.

That smoke soon turned to fire. The bus driver tried to use an onboard fire extinguisher, but it wasn’t enough.

Soon the bus was engulfed in flames, which had spread from the engine to the back of the bus, both on the roof and the undercarriage.

It would take firefighters arriving on scene to tamp down the flames, sending a thick black cloud of smoke into the air.

The incident unnerved administrators at Iredell-Statesville Schools, who were thankful no children were on the bus. A possible cause of the fire quickly became apparent, said Ricky Adams, who runs the district’s bus garage: a buildup of diesel fuel in the engine’s oil.

Bus 168 was made by International and had a MaxxForce engine.

Lawsuits filed against International’s parent company, Navistar International Corp., and complaints from Iredell-Statesville administrators describe what critics call a known design defect that can increase the chances of too much diesel fuel in the engine oil. It’s an issue that can lead to increased maintenance problems or, potentially, engine fire.

An analysis by the N.C. Watchdog Reporting Network of hundreds of fuel sample records from school buses with MaxxForce engines across the state shows that oil sample tests found elevated levels of fuel in the oil more than one third of the time.

The company has not responded to multiple requests for comment on issues with its engines sent to the media email address listed on its website, either for this story or for previous reporting by network member WBTV in Charlotte last year.

Despite the known issues, state education leaders have taken a hands-off approach to the problem. But some school districts have worked to replace MaxxForce engines.

That includes Wake County, which paid about $20,000 to $32,000 apiece to replace almost all 149 of its MaxxForce 7 engines starting in 2016, according to spokesperson Matt Dees.

He said the school system is monitoring the remaining nine MaxxForce 7 engines “to determine the optimal time to replace them.”

‘Our mechanics are leery of them’

In North Carolina, state data showed about 1,300 school buses with MaxxForce engines assigned to public school districts as of 2021. Of those, about 400 buses have

the MaxxForce 7 engine like the one inside Bus 168 when it caught fire. Almost 900 buses have a MaxxDT engine.

All MaxxForce engines circulate exhaust through the engine in an effort to burn off excess emissions to meet federal standards.

Dees said this operation of forcing excess fuel through the oil system “caused excessive wear on the internal engine components, leading to premature failure.”

It’s a process that’s come under fire in at least a halfdozen lawsuits nationwide, including one class-action suit filed by tractor-trailer owners who alleged the exhaust system caused the engine to malfunction. Navistar settled that lawsuit for $135 million in early 2020.

Officials at Iredell-Statesville Schools believe the mechanical problems may have led to the fire in May 2021.

Adams, who oversees the bus garage, pointed to fuel saturation in the oil as evidence of the problem.

Adams said the bus that caught fire had its oil changed one day before the fire. The mechanic who changed the oil took an oil sample and found 30 percent fuel dilution. That means 30 percent of the oil was actually diesel fuel.

Adams said that number should be zero.

Mechanics took an oil sample after the fire, a little more than 200 miles after the oil had been changed, and found 37 percent dilution.

“There’s like, seven quarts of fuel in the engine oil,” Adams said.

The N.C. Watchdog Reporting Network analyzed hundreds of pages of fuel lab reports for school systems across the state dating back to 2018, which were provided in response to public records requests.

Across those counties that provided records for all the MaxxForce buses in their fleet – Onslow, Brunswick, Northampton, Duplin, Davie, Montgomery, Washington, Martin and Iredell-Statesville – the data shows that fuel dilution issues requiring some kind of action popped up about 40 percent of the time.

These findings accounted for just over 50 buses across nine school systems, an analysis limited by some school districts’ lack of response and gaps in the data.

Adams recommended the district not use its other Maxx7 buses until they can pinpoint the problem for sure.

“Our mechanics are leery of them, scared of them,” he said. “Frankly, I’m a little bit scared of them myself right now, simply because we don’t know exactly what happened with this one.”

No state action, despite

potential danger

In Statesville, the district’s burned bus now sits covered in the back of a maintenance lot.

According to Adams, Navistar has not come to inspect the bus; it has only sent a photographer to take pictures.

It’s not a pretty sight, Iredell-Statesville Schools Superintendent Jeff James said.

“Looking at it actually gives you cold chills because some child could have died on that bus,” James said. “It’s not a time to start trying to protect yourself, it’s a time to say, ‘What’s wrong? Let’s fix the problem.’”

But the engine, as WBTV reported in August 2021, has never faced a company recall.

And state education leaders at the N.C. Department of Public Instruction have said repeatedly that the agency had no responsibility to warn other districts of the potential danger, even though a spokeswoman for the agency told WBTV last year that staff was tracking the problem.

“While NCDPI advises districts on maintenance of equipment based on the NC School Bus Fleet Manual, the agency does not have daily oversight and refers to the experience and expertise of those on the ground,” spokeswoman Blair Rhoades said in a statement in August.

“These preventative maintenance processes in place – which include oil analysis and inspection of oil level and condition – are to ensure buses are safe and to allow technicians to report problems that may require additional monitoring,” the statement continued. “Districts are to use the results of these analyses to make informed decisions about vehicle condition and operation.”

Iredell-Statesville Schools took their buses with Maxx7 engines off the road. Doing so means the district had to find additional buses with their own money – a price worth paying, James said, for the safety of the students.

“This is serious. Somebody needs to get serious about it from all points,” he said. “We’re trying to, I guess, ring the bell and say there’s an issue.”

(Editor’s note: This story was jointly reported and edited by Kate Martin, Shelby Harris and Ben Sessoms of Carolina Public Press; Sara Coello of The Charlotte Observer; Tyler Dukes and Jordan Schrader of The News & Observer; Nick Ochsner and Joseph Collins of WBTV; Michael Praats of WECT; Travis Fain and Ali Ingersoll of WRAL; and Jason deBruyn of WUNC.)

Sunny AM Clouds/PM SunShowers Cloudy

Showers

officials working

votings

prepared for smooth voting process

An early voting sign announcing where registered voters can go to vote in the midterm elections.

(photo provided)

An International brand bus sits in a lot in Mecklenburg County. (photo by Corey Schmidt/WBTV)

State Supreme Court to decide whether to throw out N.C. election maps – again

by MITCH KOKAI Carolina Journal

The N.C. Supreme Court will decide in the weeks ahead whether the General Assembly will need to redraw state election maps again. The state’s highest court heard oral arguments last Tuesday in Edenton in a case-challenging maps used for legislative and congressional elections.

The court’s decision Harper v. Hall will not change maps for this year’s elections. The ruling would apply to the 2024 election cycle.

Plaintiffs tied to leftof-center activist groups challenge maps the Republican-led legislature drew for state House and Senate races. Legislative leaders have a challenged a court-imposed map for state congressional elections.

“The standard … for constitutionality is whether voters of all political parties have substantially equal opportunity to translate votes into seats,” said Elisabeth Theodore, one of two lawyers speaking

SUMMEY

of her parents’ six children meant that her younger siblings got to go square dancing while Summey had to stay home and help out around the house.

Now all that’s about to change. It’s Summey’s turn to have her very first birthday party, which will be held on Friday, Nov. 18 at 6 p.m., at Somerset Court of Cherryville, located at 401 W. Academy St., Cherryville. She’s requested a Hoedown Barn Dance-themed party – and it’s going to be big.

The local generosity has shocked Summey. Almost every detail to set the stage for the big birthday bash has been donated. From Fat Daddy’s DJ service providing the tunes – Summey’s requested classics by Loretta Lynn, Porter Wagoner and Hank Williams – to cakes from Food Lion and Megan Proctor; barbecue, to photographer Crissy Barnes Blanton, who will commemorate the event; and cosmetologist Lelia Maske, who will ensure Lorene is photo-ready; the community has rallied. In addition, the Burns High School Health Sciences students have volunteered to serve guests and help out during the event.

Sign Dreamers of Lincolnton has donated the Happy Birthday yard sign as well.

Cherryville’s City Council is declaring Nov.18 to be “Lorene Summey Day,” and if that’s not enough, Gaston County is designating their own Summey holiday too.

Officers from the Cherryville Police Department will serve as the evening’s official honor guard escorting Summey into her Hoe-

for the plaintiffs during a Supreme Court session at the Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse. “The trial court committed legal error with respect to the [state] Senate map because it did not actually address that governing standard.

Overwhelming evidence, including the reports of all three neutral advisers, showed that the remedial Senate plan failed that standard and significantly favored Republicans.”

A second plaintiffs’ attorney, Hillary Klein, asked the state Supreme Court to reject both the House and Senate legislative maps.

“All of the competent evidence shows that the House map denies substantially equal voting power,” she said. “This is not necessitated by the political geography of North Carolina.

With a party-line 4-3 vote in February, state Supreme Court Democrats threw out the original maps state lawmakers drew for legislative and congressional maps. When lawmakers submitted new maps to a three-judge trial court panel, that group accepted

down. Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III, will be on hand to partake in the festivities, as will members of the City Council and the Gaston County Board of Commissioners.

“I can’t believe it,” Summey said. “I just hope I don’t make a fool of myself.”

Asked what she wanted for her birthday, her request was simple: she wants birthday cards, lots of them. In fact, Summey has asked for one birthday card for each of her 105 years. And she’s more than halfway there. At last count she’d received 72 birthday cards from 10 states. Well-wishers from as far away as Washington State, Colorado and New York have sent her birthday greetings.

Summey’s niece, Brenda Craine, 82, of Lawndale, is thrilled that so many are so excited to give her aunt a day she’ll never forget.

“It’s so wonderful what everyone’s doing. I don’t think it’s really soaked in for her how big this event is going to be,” Crane said. “She’s just been precious all her life – she deserves every bit of this.”

Her stepson and granddaughter will be in attendance – they wouldn’t miss it.

“I really want her to have a great big crowd – fellow residents are super excited,” said Somerset Court of Cherryville’s Community Relations Director, Jodie Lankford, who’s organizing the festivities. “The only thing left on the list at the moment are decorations.”

Lorene’s Background Summey’s career began at Cherryville’s Nu-Way Mill where she worked for 17 years before going to Southern Business School in Gastonia. She went on

revised, or remedial, maps for state House and Senate. The panel rejected the remedial congressional map and substituted its own map, drawn by outside “special masters.”

Legislators’ attorney, Phil Strach, argued that it’s unclear why the trial court made its decisions. He said each of the maps complied with guidance set out in the Supreme Court’s first ruling. Plaintiffs are asking the court to ignore that

to work in accounting for Carolina Freight where she served in the heart of the operation for 29 years.

“One time a million dollars went through my fingers in a week,” she recalled. “It seemed like everything broke down that week and all the bills came due at the same time.”

Her late husband, Walter, was among the first round of men drafted to serve in World War II in 1940.

She’s always attended services faithfully at First Baptist Church in Cherryville. “I like music,” she said. “I took piano lessons and I play a little bit – I love piano.” In addition to music, Lorene stays busy by crafting. She crochets and makes plastic canvas weaving creations. It’s something she’s done for most of her life.

“When I’d go and visit her, she’d have crafts all over the couch that she was working on,” Crane said. “We’d have to slide everything down so we’d have room to sit.”

In April of this year Summey moved to Somerset Court of Cherryville’s assisted living community. These days she’s teaching a class for her fellow residents on how to make small decorative flower vase of stacked beads.

“I like to work on these projects,” Summey said. “I enjoy having something to do.”

For more information on Summey’s Hoedown Barn Dance birthday party call (704) 445-1554, or go to Cherryvilleseniors.com to RSVP.

To help Summey reach her goal of 105 birthday cards for her 105th birthday, mail one to: Lorene Summey, c/o Somerset Court of Cherryville, 401 W. Academy St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.

guidance, he argued.

“The plaintiffs here want to open this up to what they call this holistic analysis,” he said. “What that would do is simply transform redistricting into a game of ‘Gotcha!’ by litigants in the courts. Because there are so many ways to calculate these metrics, this approach would intentionally create ambiguity so that if the political result isn’t obtained by a particular litigant of whatever political persuasion, then they can come in and ask the court to second-guess it.”

Five of the seven justices lobbed questions at the attorneys.

Chief Justice Paul Newby, a Republican, challenged plaintiffs’ allegation that legislative leaders are trying to game the legal system by asking the state Supreme Court to dismiss an appeal of the court-ordered congressional map.

Senior Associate Justice Robin Hudson, a Democrat, authored the Supreme Court’s ruling throwing out the original maps. She questioned Strach’s assessment of the trial court’s role in the case.

“The trial court is supposed to oversee the redrawing by the legislature,” Hudson said. “How can they do that without reviewing the calculations and the methods that are used by the General As-

sembly in producing the product that they submit to the court for review?”

“They can and should review the metrics, but they should defer to what the General Assembly used unless what the General Assembly did was obviously and clearly wrong,” Strach responded.

Justice Anita Earls, another Democrat, asked Strach whether legislators are asking the Supreme Court to reverse its decision from February.

“The overarching question is whether or not all voters have the same opportunity to translate their votes into seats,” Earls said. “These measures are one way to address that, but the court should be looking at the totality of the circumstances.”

“What we would contend is what this remedial process proved is that’s not a judicially manageable standard,” Strach responded. “What it did is it gave the trial court ‘carte blanche’ to pick the maps that it wanted to pick based on whatever reason it had.”

“This court is barreling into the political wilderness where the legislative authority to redistrict will be transferred from the legislature to the courts,” Strach said as the hourlong oral arguments concluded.

The case took an interesting twist in recent days.

Tim Longest, a law clerk

since 2020 for Hudson, began a leave of absence Saturday from his job. Longest is the Democratic candidate for the N.C. House District 34 race.

Legislative leaders raised questions Friday about whether Hudson had taken adequate steps to separate Longest from the redistricting case after he became a candidate for legislative office in July.

Hudson issued an order Sunday announcing Longest’s leave from his clerk duties. The justice refused to provide any additional information about Longest’s role in the Harper v. Hall case.

Regardless of the Harper v. Hall case’s outcome, the General Assembly is likely to redraw North Carolina’s congressional map. When a trial court adopted a map created by appointed “special masters,” judges announced that the map would be used only for the 2022 election cycle.

The state Supreme Court will not have the final word about N.C. election maps.

The U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments this year in Moore v. Harper. In that case, legislative leaders challenge the state high court’s ability to amend or reject lawmakers’ congressional election districts. A decision in that case is likely by June 2023.

PHOTO MONTAGE OF NC STATE SUPREME COURT JUSTICES (YouTube file image of N.C. Supreme Court justices. Source: Carolina Journal)

time when we must sin in order to avoid evil

war? Please, read on.

November

11 is Veterans Day.

It will be a day for me that is filled with reflection and thought. There is, and always remains, a stirring in the heart and soul of those who honor the commandment, “Thou shalt not kill.” Is there any justification for

Veterans Day was first recognized as Armistice Day, honoring the end of World War I, declared by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. In 1954 it become a Veterans Day to pay tribute to all those who served in the Armed Forces services to our nation at war and during

What’s the Forecast?

peacetime.

Dr. Roger Shinn, professor of Christian Ethics at New York’s Union Seminary, helps us to understand the conscience of the American servicewoman and serviceman when he saluted his comrades in arms with the most pungent words ever written regarding the personal and intimate courage of standing up for what one believes is right.

“Grim as war was, it appeared to them a little better choice than standing by while aggressors

conquered, exterminated, and poisoned the minds of children… In our world, how do responsible people act responsibly when in a senseless world; how do men act rationally in an incomprehensible era; how do they act morally in a demonic conflict; some of those who entered the war, entered with a prayer of repentance for their participation in the sins of the world that made war the best choice they could see. The wiser made no claims to perfection for their own cause.

They were resolved to fight it with half-truths. They made choices when no choice was right. They sought to rid the world of its filth with no expectations of keeping themselves clean. Rarely do any of us really accept the cost of our beliefs, but times do come when they demand accountability.”

As we approach this Veterans Day, honor those who paid the price to preserve our freedom and democracy; and to those veterans who gave their all for the rights and

Cherryville Area Places of Worship

When

no one wants to be

or annoyed, because they are not properly dressed. I personally don’t want to be without a jacket when it is cold, or an umbrella when it’s raining! Likewise, sometimes we faithfully pay attention to day-to-day occurrences like the weather forecast, but are oblivious to spiritual realities. Jesus states in Matthew 16:2-3 (ESV) When it is evening, you say ‘it will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for’ the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.”

A Reliable Source

With the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947, biblical scholars are admitting that the Old Testament prophecies are valid. In 2 Peter 1:20-21 (ESV), Apostle Peter states, “Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” While some people read the zodiac for guidance of their future, I recommend the bible as a trustworthy and verifiable resource to find out God’s plans for your destiny!

More Predictions

Like many of us, the disciples wanted to know when the world would end. In Matthew 24:7, 10,12,14 (NLT) Jesus states, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. And the Good News about the kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come.” Although we will never know the exact date of the end of the world, or the end of our lives, we must strive to be spiritually prepared. This world is temporary, but eternity is forever.

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

“Lord God, you are omnipotent, knowing all things in the past, present, and future. You set time in place for us, but eternity is your domain. I praise your holy name! Father, forgive me for not always discerning the signs of the times, because I am distracted by daily life. Help me to pay attention to spiritual things, especially warnings that you give. Lord, I want to be ready to meet you whether it’s during your return, or when I take my last breath. My future is in your hands, my steps are ordered by you, and I commit my life to you. In Jesus’ name I pray - Amen.”

Danyale Patterson would love to hear from you! Contact her at www.danyale.com to share a testimony, send a prayer request, or book her to speak.

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

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

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

freedoms of others in foreign lands who have and are facing oppression from a wicked regime.

And this I know – that there comes a time when we must sin in order to avoid evil. I am just one of the grateful people all over our nation who will offer a prayer to God for those who made the personal sacrifice by serving in the Armed Forces of the United States.

God will bless us and our nation for it.

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

“…a time for war and a time for peace.”

BILLY T. LOWE

Pastor – Cherryville First Presbyterian Church (USAF Vietnam Veteran – 1972)

201 Houser Street, Cherryville, NC

Second Baptist Church

DANYALE PATTERSON

HALLOWEEN

From Page 1

love this holiday. We love to see how much something we worked hard at make someone’s day.”

Price said her kids don’t “really do much” as far as helping with decorating the house.

“I do, however, have people who know me sometimes give me things they find or had that they no longer wanted and have given to me,” she said. And, so far as her neighbors go, Price

noted, “My neighbors have told me they really like my decorations.”

She hasn’t really ever counted the number of pieces that comprise the outdoor scare-fest, she said.

“No. I haven’t counted how many pieces of the things that are in my yard for decoration, but, if I had to guess, I would say over 100 pieces. As I said, I usually add more items every year. Most of the time I change it up. I sometimes keep some of the same decorations but I change where I put them.”

Regarding the decora-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th day of October, 2022 as Administrator CTA of the Estate of PAULA SIMPSON SMITH; AKA, PAULA JEAN SMITH, 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, Brenton S. Begley, Administrator CTA, on or before the 26th of January, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 26th day of October, 2022.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator CTA

Estate of: Paula Simpson Smith; aka, Paula Jean Smith McINTYRE ELDER LAW 233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

CE (10/26, 11/02, 09 & 16/2022)

BN (10/27, 11/03, 10 & 17/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF FRANCES ABERNATHY WOMACK

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Frances Abernathy Womack; aka, Mary Frances Abernathy Womack, 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 5th day of January, 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 under-signed.

This the 5th day of October, 2022.

Lisa Womack Greenway Executrix Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW 106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021 Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE

Contractor as provided in General Statutes Chapter 87.

Bidders are encouraged to only secure project bid documents as noted above. Neither the Owner nor the Owner’s representative will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including any Addenda, obtained from any source other than the Owner and their representative plan provider. Each Bidder shall be responsible for the review of all addenda for the project and shall acknowledge the addenda on the bid fonn.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive informalities, or to reject non conforming, non-responsive, or conditional bids. The Owner reserves the right to award a contract to the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder or bidders, taking into consideration quality, performance, and time.

CE (10/19 & 10/26/2022)

tions, when asked what her personal favorite of them was, Price smiled and said, “My favorite? Wow! That’s a hard question to answer because this year my sister added her stuff and there’s a lot she brought to add with mine. I guess the monster that is mechanical that greets everyone as they walk up on my porch. He rotates around on a runner and moves his arms and makes creepy monster sounds and his eyes light up. He has lots of spiders all over him and has paint of red places – for blood stains – all over its white dress shroud.”

She continued, “My sister put wood stain on his face to make it look more real. Then the other favorite would be the casket she made out of a cardboard box. She dressed it up with stains, tissue paper, paints, moss, creepy bugs, used creepy cloth, and trash bags using the hot glue gun and some other glues. She cut the box in the form of a casket herself. She added a skeleton hanging from inside the casket. She painted the skeleton with stain to make it look more realistic. She put lots of spiders, snakes, bugs, rats, and an

owl on top of it. She put stain, feathers and hair on the rats and owl to make it look more realistic. It really looks amazing!”

Angela said those are her favorites because her sister “…put a lot of thought and time into these projects, and they turned out really great for our Halloween yard display. She is very talented and should be recognized. At least I think so.”

The two ladies said as far as any future plans, they plan on keeping up the decorating for Halloween as long as they’re able.

LEGAL NOTICE

COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF MARY WILLIE HILL

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Willie Hill, 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 19th day of January, 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 19th day of October, 2022. Matthew Greenway Executor Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW 106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021 Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (10/19, 26, 11/02 & 09/2022)

BN (10/20, 27, 11/03 & 10/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th day of June as Executor of the Estate of Thomas J. Cauthen; aka, Thomas J. Cauthen, Jr., 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 Tommy E. Cauthen, Executor, on or before the 5th day of January, 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 5th day of October, 2022.

Tommy E. Cauthen, Executor Estate of Thomas J. Cauthen; aka, Thomas J. Cauthen, Jr. 1730 Rhyne Road Dallas, NC 28034

CE (10/05, 12, 19 & 26/2022)

BN (10/06, 13, 20 & 27/2022)

FOR BIDS

OF CHERRYVILLE WESTGATE PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Cherryville’s Angela Price watches as the motion-activated flying ghost, or monster, as she calls it, “flies by on its wire. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

This spooky trio of witches and their cauldron is the creation of her sister, Linda Powell, of Morganton. Linda, said Angela, came by to help her out this year and brought along a number of new additions to Price’s Halloween menagerie of scary things.

Volleyball senior Kiser’s fundraiser nets $1,000 for Levine’s

Rileigh: “We ended up with about 30 boys that played and about 15 other volunteers that helped.”

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

CHS senior and Lady Ironmen volleyball setter Rileigh Kiser recently organized a boys volleyball fundraiser to support Levine’s Children’s Hospital in honor Childhood Cancer Month.

Originally scheduled for the month of September, Rileigh said they had to reschedule for Wednesday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m.

The sign-ups were held at CHS and the $6 entry fee and all proceeds and donations went to support Levine’s. Rileigh said, “The fund-

raiser went great and the fans and players had a great time.”

Rileigh said she was not aware of any other time a boy’s volleyball game was played at Cherryville High, adding, “So it was a new activity that many people were interested in watching and participating in. I was thankful for all the people who came to watch and donated to the fundraiser. We ended up with about 30 boys that played and about 15 other volunteers that helped the event run smoothly. The boys were divided by grade in school – the freshman and sophomores on a team; the juniors on a team; and the seniors on a team. Although the seniors put up a good fight in the final game, the juniors took home the win.”

Rileigh said they raised $1,000 which will be donated to Levine’s Children’s Hospi-

tal by the end of the month, with the help of instructor, Mr. Matt Powers, and the school.

“The fundraiser was originally supposed to be played in September, which is Childhood Cancer Month. It was still in honor of those fighting against childhood cancer even though we had to reschedule the event to October,” she reiterated.

When asked if she sees this event as being an ongoing event/fundraiser, Miss Kiser said, “I do see this event happening year after year, but I will have to pass the baton to someone else. I will definitely be willing to help with the setup but it would be hard for me to run while I am in college. I can see this fundraiser being used to donate to a variety of different organizations depending on the need at the time.”

Varsity Ironmen lose in away game to Burns Bulldogs

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The CHS Ironmen football squad traveled on Friday night, Oct. 21, to Burns High School to take on the Bulldogs. After a hardfought game on the part of the Ironmen, they lost to the Bulldogs by a score of 64-7.

With quarterback Chase Miller out due to injury,

backup QB Josh Ward took the helm of the team, doing a good job. Ward passed the ball 13 times, completing five passes for a total of 82 yards. Ward threw a 15-yard TD pass to Collin Huss for the Ironmen’s only TD of this very lopsided game. The PAT by Marlon Gomez was good and the Ironmen had 7 points on the board. That was all the Bulldogs would allow them.

In his rushing game, Ward carried the ball nine times but achieved only negative yardage (-4) as the Bulldogs had their eyes

on him all game long and getting inside to keep him from getting any positive rushing yards.

The Ironmen’s rushing game overall was achieved mostly at the hands and on the strong legs of Kam Bolin, who carried the pigskin six times for 13 yards; and Shamyr Moss, who carried the ball 14 times for 29 yards. Austin Clinton and Tobias Miller each carried the ball once for a total of -4 and -3 yards, respectively.

Senior Ironman Collin Huss had a good night as he caught two passes for

22 yards, while teammate Tobias Miller fared better, catching four passes for 60 yards.

The Ironmen, who are currently 3-6 overall and 1-4 in SPC 1A/2A play, play rival BCHS at Rudisill Stadium on Friday, Oct. 28, which is also Senior Night for the football men. The game starts at 7:30 p.m.

On Nov. 4, the NCHSAA Playoffs, Round 1 start with the time and place to be announced.

(Stats and information by Susan L. Powell and Danny Eaker)

CHS senior Rileigh Kiser, in her role as the referee, gives the young men players their instructions shortly before the first-ever men’s volleyball fundraiser for Childhood Cancer starts on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Nixon Gym. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Some of the seniors in action at the Wednesday, Oct. 12 men’s volleyball fundraiser at Nixon Gym. The event raised $1,000 to be donated to Levine’s Children’s Hospital to help in the battle against childhood cancer.

CHS’ Collin Huss prepares to deliver a smashing serve in the Wednesday, Oct. 12 men’s volleyball fundraiser for childhood cancer.

Some serious action at the net in the first-ever men’s volleyball fundraiser on Oct. 12, 2022.

As his teammates watch, Kam Bolin takes a turn at serving the ball during the Oct. 12 men’s volleyball fundraising game.

The sophomores and juniors team return the ball, keeping the action going in the men’s

And the ball is up and on its way as the game gets a bit more serious during the Wednesday, Oct. 12, men’s volleyball fundraiser at Nixon Gym. Though it was all in fun, it was all for a great cause – donating to help kids with cancer!

Team is currently 3-6 overall; 1-4 in SPC 1A/2A play

EMPLOYMENT

NEED

EMPLOYMENT

PART-TIME HELP needed on chicken farm near Casar area. 704-692-8752.

LOOKING FOR A DEPENDABLE PERSON. For help on a well boring machine. Includes installing submersible pumps. General knowledge of hand tools is a plus. If interest call or text Tony. 704-740-6604

NEED A CAR DISMANTLER. Auto Parts of Shelby. Apply in person at 1021 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152 704487-5234 (704) 472-4666

CARPENTER/HANDY MAN to remodel rentals. Pay based on experience. 336-225-1050.

TECHNICIAN TRAINEE. Locally based Surface Specialists is looking to hire a technician to deliver service to commercial and residential customers in Western NC. Job will provide repair and refinishing to surfaces (eg, tubs, showers, sinks, counter tops and vinyl windows). Requires valid license, pick up truck, hand tools & color perception. Paid training and expense reimbursement. (828) 245-6375 ssblueridge@ yahoo.com

HANDYMAN NEEDED. Handyman needed on a job in Rutherfordton for one day. Monday or Tuesday. Basic plumbing and household electrical and wood framing skills needed. Basically you will be relocating water pressure tank and sediment filter from crawl space to attached shed 6-10 feet away from present location. No digging required. Also trouble shooting 2 water hydrants in the yard. Reasonably good pay, refreshments, drink and facilities available. BYO Tools. I have some if needed. (574) 229-3631

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN for Lanier Pointe Apartments in Shelby. Painting, cleaning, carpentry, routine maintenance, some knowledge of plumbing and electrical helpful. Must have reliable transportation and valid drivers license. EOE. Please call for more info. Resumes may be emailed to: lanierpointeapts@ gmail.com (704) 480-5982

ONE ON ONE CARE is hiring for full/part time in the group homes for 2nd shift. Transport experience recommended not required. Hrs are 2p-11p weekdays and 8p-8a weekends. Apply in person at 203 Lee St., Shelby

CLASS A CDL DRIVER NEEDED. to go to Midwest, Mississippi and Florida. 704-740-9238.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704473-4299. (704) 473-4299

COMPLETE CARE INC. Is seeking CNAs / In Home Aides for Cleveland and Gaston Counties. Apply M-F, 8am-4pm at 404 W. Warren St, Shelby, NC 28150 or call (704) 480-9340

BUSINESS SERVICES

HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE AGENTS, need a little work?

Corbin Property Services, LLC. Specializing in small jobs/punch list. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, tile, etc. Need a hand for a day or two? Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

SENIOR HELPER CNA 20 years experience. Looking for work. I do home care. Personal care, errands, appointments, grocery shopping, cooking, and light house keeping. Please call 828-974-1111 and leave a message in the Evening or email lora3_4@yahoo.com. In Shelby area (828) 9741111 lora3_4@yahoo.com

TRIPLE D PAINTING, LLC. All your painting needs. Free estimates. Over 25 yrs experience! Facial board replacement available!!! Making your home, building or business look new again. (704) 418-5736 childresstracy1@gmail.com

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

STORAGE UNITS AND SMALL CLEANOUTS Need a storage unit or room cleaned out? We specialize in a quick and easy mainly storage junk removal. We take all the necessary steps to remove, recycle or donate all the items we can. We’re a locally owned and operated company. We take pride in donating items back into our community and helping our environment by recycling. Serving Cleveland and Gaston County and surrounding areas. CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! 1-661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@live.com

YARD BUDDY. Outdoor work such as trimming bushes, small trees, spraying weeds, gutter cleaning. General property clean-up. No grass cutting or leaves. Serving Shelby & Cleveland County. (980) 295-0750

BIG A’S HANDYMAN SERVICES. AUTOMOTIVE, ELECTRICAL, WOODWORKING, PLUMBING AND MUCH MORE. (704) 284-2964 ANTHONYDIMARCO59@GMAIL. COM

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICES. Exterior painting only. We also stain decks. Free estimates. You will be pleased with our work. We have references. 828-287-9272. (828) 4297511

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 532-1587

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

FOR SALE

DECORATIONS FOR SALE. Christmas and Fall Wreaths with other decorations and crafts. 200 Lutz Rd, Lawndale. 704538-3808.

2 BLUE RECLINERS for sale. $100 for both. Call 704-6852507.

DARK PLUM WITH GOLD CAVIAR Beaded top. Size 12. Mother or grandmother of bride or groom. Paid $200, Sell $100. (704) 482-1940

2007, 26’ ENCLOSED CAR TRAILER. Electric winch, battery or 110 conversion, overhead toolboxes. Black with aluminum rims. $6,800 o.b.o. (203) 5094808

FREE PIANO. ANTIQUE PIANO with beautiful detail. Tuned several years ago but would probably need tuning again. Must pick up. (704) 692-6636

USED WAREHOUSE SHELVING. Used file cabinets, desks and chairs. Warehouse scale and other warehouse miscellaneous items. (704) 477-8277

16 FT. METAL WALK BOARD for sale - $200. Call: 704-5307576.

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD SERVICE. Green oak. Cut, split and delivered. $85. 828-395-0758

SHOW OFF YOUR INNER ANIMAL. Shop Now for Beautiful All Over Print Apparel at Local Online Mall - NC4Ever.com TheUncleBobby@mail.com

FOR SALE

NEW USED REPO BUILDINGS

Thursday - Friday 10-5 Sat. 1012 J Johnson Sales 2690 US Hwy 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve: 704-4728865; Todd: 704-692-1627

METAL ROOFING IN STOCK! Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

ALL TRAILERS CASH, FINANCE, CREDIT CARDS or RENT TO OWN. J Johnson Sales Forest City, NC. Thursday - Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-12. Ph. (828) 245-5895

STEEL CARPORTS & GARAGES 12 wide, 18, 20, 22, 24 & 30 wides on display. Large onsite display. J Johnson Sales Forest City 2690 Hwy 221 South. Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. Ph.(828) 245-5895

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 538-5788

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. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

WANT

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-2891488.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MALTIPOO FOR SALE. 16 weeks old. Our older dog has not accepted the puppy so we need to find “Luna” a loving home. Call 828-437-6994 or 828-413-4712 (828) 437-6994

GOLDEN DOODLE PUPPIES. Dewormed, have first shots, ready October 1. $500each. Henry Miller; 1608 Walls Church Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040.

MILL-SEC K9 HALF BELGIUM MALINOIS, Half German Shepherd puppies for sale. $500. 828755-7335.

AKC REGISTERED LABRADOR RETRIEVER PUPPIES. Born 9/17/22. Will be ready November 5. First shots and wormed. Both parents on site. Chocolate, yellow and black. Now taking $200 deposits. Call or text 828-429-0210.

LOOKING FOR SMALL DOG Want to buy a chihuahua or any small dog at a reasonable price. 704-750-3318.

100 NEW CEMENT BLOCKS. $2.20 each. (704) 418-0990

ITEMS FOR SALE. Over One Hundred Novels mostly Western & New $1.00 Each, LG Washer-$50 & Dryer (Washer Needs Work) Dryer “Like New” $250, Upright Piano $400. 704-8255701. (704) 825-5701

HOME BUILT HUNTING DOG CARRIER. Well built - 48 inches wide - 38.5 inches deep - 19 inches tall $35.00 Forest City,NC (828) 429-4924

2021 PRIDE 4 w/scooter, w/ lift/carrier. $1400 or OBO. 704884-5428.

10X12 METAL GAZEBO FRAME with all instructions and hardware. $75. 704-4728157.

STORE FIXTURES FOR CLOTHING STORE. On sale. 4 way & 2 way racks, showcases, plastic bodies, mannequins & much more. (828) 980-2231

JET 2 POWER CHAIR DL5.2I Dynamic, built-in charger, excellent battery, $750. Will deliver if needed. (828) 657-4167

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD Small seasoned hardwood mix for small wood stoves. Cut, split, delivered $85/load. 828-3950758.

JAZZY SELECT 6 $475. Mobility chair, delivered, warranty & charger. 245 lb wt capacity. Call Scooterman John. New and used chairs from $350.00 to $1600.00. Wt limits of 145 lbs to 450 lbs (704) 951-4224 mobilityservices07@gmail.com

ALL METAL GARAGES. Big Discounts! Zero down. Call for more details. 828-382-0455.

NEW AND USED DOG CRATES. Small to 30 inches. $5.00 to $30.00. Call 828-7487527.

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

PORTABLE GENERATOR Champion generator run for only 1 hour. Model 100340 bought new. 6875 Starting Watts/5500 Running Watts. Recoil start. $450 Call (704) 259-3694 mjimison@carolina. rr.com

4 GRAVES

CKC YORKSHIRE TERRIER PUPPIES. 3 males, 2 females, in home raised, tails docked, dewclaws removed, vet checked, 1st shots, dewormed, come with puppy care package, papers/records, & adorable portrait. Ready to go 10/26/2022. $1500 (704) 692-3698

LOOKING FOR A SHI-TZU. Call anytime of day. (704) 418-4532

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. Ready to go. All shots UTD. For more info, contact Ronnie (704) 974-2716

DYNAMIC TREE EXPERTS

Dependable and affordable tree service. Trimming, elevations, clean outs, deadwooding and removal. ISA cer-

ESTATE SALE, SATURDAY, NOV. 5, 2022 from 8:00 AM5:00 p.m. ESTATE SALE. EVERYTHING MUST GO, BOOKS, CRAFTS, CLOTHES, DISHES, FURNITURE, GARDEN SUPPLIES, AND MUCH MORE!!! GREAT PRICES AND BULK DEALS. MUST CLEAN OUT THE HOUSE. 2058 FALLSTON ROAD, SHELBY, NC 28150 (704) 907-4113 loradonoghue@ gmail.com

RUTHERFORD COUNTY CLEARWATER CREEK COMMUNITY YARD SALE. CLEARWATER CREEK SUBDIVISION YARD SALE. SAT OCT 29TH FROM 8AM TILL 12PM. THOMPSON ROAD GATE WILL BE OPEN. CLEARWATER PARKWAY COMMUNITY CENTER. PARK ON THE ROAD AND WALK DOWN. ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, CLOTHES, LOTS MORE! Rutherfordton, NC 28139 (850) 319-8798 jazzinpc@ gmail.com

ANTIQUES

GENERAC POWER GENERATOR. Cash Only! Generac XG 10000E 10,000 running watts, less than 1 hr, runs great, 4 prong 240 volts plug wire extra air filters, oil filter, spark plugs, 2 cylinder Generac engine (828) 208-2932

WHITE WHIRLPOOL DUET. Front loading washer and dryer with attached drawer pedestals. $1,500 or OBO. 704-674-8587 (Leave Message.)

HORSE QUALITY HAY. Square and round bales. Call (704) 4876855

FIREWOOD Seasoned 95% Oak. S10 load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704435-3970 or 704-458-3081.

TWO GRAVE LOTS FOR SALE. Gaston Memorial Park. Military Part near flag. $3,000 each. 704825-3283 or 704-214-3196

METAL CAGES FOR FIREWOOD, ETC $25. BURNING BARRELS $15; FEED BARRELS WITH LIDS & RINGS $20; TOTES $75 - $100; SOLID TOP METAL DRUMS $15; SOLID TOP PLASTIC BARRELS $10. Call Jeff in Hickory (828) 3274782

RIDING

AMERICAN BRITTANY PUPPIES FOR SALE. CHAMPION BLOODLINES 4 WEEKS OLD. READY FOR NEW HOMES ON NOV 10, 2022. ORANGE AND WHITE, VET CHECKED, WILL BE UP TO DATE ON VACCINATIONS. CALL FOR DETAILS,

(864)

AKC AKITA

704-974-7041

CLEVELAND

UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, MORE. Tuesday-Saturday 11am-4pm. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on FB. 828-382-0075.

THERMOMETERS, MATCH HOLDERS, CAROLINA FREIGHT COLLECTION, much more. (704) 460-5638

RENT TO OWN TRAILERS. ENCLOSED, DUMP, GOOSENECK, CAR HAULERS. Thursdays - Fridays 10-5, Sat. 10-12. J Johnson Sales, inc. (828) 2455895

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPO’S. LARGE SELECTION! CASH or RENT TO OWN. NO CREDIT CHECK! J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 South, Forest City ThursdayFriday 10-5 Saturday 10-12 (828) 245-5895

Cross-country Lady Ironmen have a great regular season

Oct. 18, at Shelby High School, he said.

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Coach Scott Harrill, one of the coaches for the CHS Lady Ironmen cross-country team, said the ladies have had a great season.

Cherryville Lady Ironmen cross-country team ran in the South-

“Cameryn Bell led the way with for the Lady Ironmen, running a very impressive 24:56 in her first year competing,” said Coach Harrill, adding, “Cameryn has been a great runner this year for us as a freshman. We are very proud of the way she competes and always pushes herself to get better.”

Harrill further noted, “Lailanni Delano had a PR for the championship meet,

rounded out the scoring for the cross-country team and also ran a personal best time. The ladies competed hard in every meet this season. It was a great finish to the year.”

Coach Harrill also said the All-Conference team was named and Cameryn Bell earned All-Conference honors in the Southern Piedmont 1A/2A conference.

The Regionals are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 30, at a place yet to be named.

1998

CAMPERS

2021 GEO PRO 19FBS

VACATIONS

SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly,

OCEAN

803-7182659.

REAL

CLEVELAND

FORMER

erator/freezer,

office/bath

TV, Wi-Fi booster, power tongue jack, power awing, power slide out, off-road axle/wheels. $20k. Selling as is. Text or phone 803-422-2985. (803) 422-2985

SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMPGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal Sites. (704) 435-0938

GASTONIA-RENT

989-7316

RUTHERFORD

704-487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

LARGE CLASSY

No

car-

and

$800 mo. Email exxona@yahoo.com for pictures.

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $550 per month. 828-382-0475.

The CHS Lady Ironmen cross-country team at the Tuesday, Oct. 4, Tryon meet. Left to right are: Cameryn Bell, Willow Chambers, Harleigh LaRoche, and Leilani Delano.

CHS Lady Ironmen All-Conference cross-country runner, Cameryn Bell, in action.

Lady Ironmen cross-country runner Willow Chambers takes off from the starting line at the Oct. 18, 2022 Shelby meet.

From Page 1 along the way – Coach Harrill, Coach Bridges, Coach Heavner, Coach Pruitt, Coach Quattlebaum, Coach Mauldin, the late Coach Beck, Coach Fox, Coach Bray, Coach Helms, Coach Davis, Coach Griggs, Coach Tate, Coach Black, Coach Freeman, the late Coach Watkins. The Ironmen have been good to me. I love all things about Cherryville and the Ironmen. If I could do it all over again I sure would!”

CHS Principal Shawn Hubers said, “Lee Roy is an amazing person! He is such a hard worker and is so dedicated to Cherryville High School. Everyone in our building loves Lee and respects him because of how hard he works and how he treats everyone he comes in contact with. Lee’s dedication to CHS is unmatched and in my short time at CHS I couldn't imagine this place

without him.”

Former CHS Principal Kevin Doran, now Principal at Cramerton Middle School, said, “Lee Roy is the kind of person that we all should aspire to be – hard working, loyal, and always (having) a positive attitude.”

Mr. Doran’s memory of Lee is as follows: “In my time in Cherryville, Lee Roy won the Gaston County Custodian of the Year. It was a great honor for Lee Roy, but my favorite part was what happened afterward. We arranged a surprise pep rally for Lee Roy when we came back from the reception. All 545 CHS students filled the gym and sat in absolute silence waiting for Lee Roy to come into the gym. I have never seen or heard high school students that quiet and I believe that was a testament to how much they care about him. When Lee Roy walked in the sound was deafening. It was a great day in celebration of Lee Roy and one of my favorites at CHS!”

CHS Athletic Director Scott Harrill has the greatest respect for the man.

Of Lee he said, “Lee Roy Montgomery is one of the best men I have ever known in my life. He is one of my true friends who will do anything in the world for me or anyone who needs help. Lee Roy has a heart of gold and makes this world a better place. He is the true Ironman at Cherryville High School. Lee Roy graduated in 1982 and has been helping out with Cherryville sports for the last 40 years. He sure makes my job as a coach and Athletic Director much better. If you ever need to smile or laugh a little, hang out with Lee Roy. His wife is always supportive of Lee Roy and his role at CHS. Anywhere you go in the state of NC, one of the first questions opposing teams or communities ask is, ‘Where is Lee Roy?!’ He is known state-wide and deserves every accolade he receives!”

Lady Ironmen spikers wrap up tournament play

The Lady Ironmen volleyball team went on the road to TJCA for the second time this past week, and came away winners, this time in the first round of the conference tournament.

Coach Leigh Kiser said her squad really played well as they have won five out of the last six matches.

“We are really playing together and getting production from everybody,” said Kiser, at the time.

The match scores at TJCA were 25-15 (CHS), 25-17 (TJCA), 26-24 (CHS), and 25-20 (CHS) for a 3-1 win.

For the Lady Ironmen, Rileigh Kiser had 37 assists and 16 digs, with Emily Allen getting 12 kills in the match. Also on offense was Carson Reed with 9 kills and Lexi McSwain and Laila Davis with 8 kills each – they helped the offense. On defense, Taylor Digh led with 20 digs and 4 aces, and Krista Davis contributed 9 digs and 4 aces. Coach Kiser noted that Senior Addie Breese came off the bench and provided a big spark in the fourth set. Kiser said she is excited about how her team is playing during tourney time.

Conference run ends

The Lady Ironmen’s run in

the conference tourney ended on Monday, Oct. 17, at conference leader Highland Tech.

After a spirited first two sets, the Lady Ironmen were finally defeated 3-0 by the Lady Rams.

Coach Leigh Kiser said her team played hard, and really were in position to win the first two sets before falling. Match scores were 25-19, 25-19 and 25-11.

“I’m proud of how we have been playing late in the year,” said Coach Kiser.

Emily Allen recorded 5 kills and Carson Reed 4 kills to lead the offense. Taylor Digh had 7 digs on defense and Rileigh Kiser finished with 12 assists.

2022 VB season ends at Murphy

The season ended on Saturday (Oct. 22) in Murphy for Coach Leigh Kiser’s Lady Ironmen in the first round of the state playoffs.

After playing their way into the tourney, the Lady Ironmen had to make the long trip to Murphy. Against a really good Lady Bulldogs team, the Lady Ironmen gave Coach Kiser all they had but came up short in the end in the 3-0 loss. Match scores were 25-15, 25-13,and 25-22.

Said Coach Kiser, “We com-

peted hard and fought all the way to the last point,” which was all that she said she could ask from her team.

For the CHS ladies, Emily Allen, Lexi McSwain, and Laila Davis led the offense with 18 kills all of which were setup by Rileigh Kiser’s 17 assists. Taylor Digh, with 5 serve aces and 18 digs, also paced the ladies.

With the loss the varsity Lady Ironmen end their 2022 season with a 13-10 record.

With the finale, the Lady Ironmen saw the careers of five seniors come to an end: Rileigh Kiser, Makayla Sigmon, Kaitlyn Newsome, Gracie Truesdale, and Adi Breese.

“These are the seniors who will graduate,” said Kiser.

“We played a lot of underclassmen this season, said Kiser, “…so there is a foundation in place to keep up a winning tradition. This senior group had the first winning season in six years and advanced to the state tourney for the second straight year. Next year our team will look different, but I’m excited for the next few years and what this returning group can accomplish.”

By JIM MILLER Editor

How Much Does an Average Funeral Cost?

Dear Savvy Senior,

How much does a typical funeral and body burial cost today? My wife and I are interested in prearranging our funerals but would like to have a cost idea before going in so we can plan and budget appropriately.

Planning Ahead

Dear Planning, It definitely pays to know what charges to expect when pre-planning a funeral. Most people don’t have a clue and can often be upsold thousands of dollars’ worth of extra services they may not want or need. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect.

Funeral Prices

The first thing you need to be aware of is that funeral costs will vary considerably depending on your geographic location, the funeral home you choose and the funeral choices you make. With that said, here’s a breakdown of what an average funeral costs, nationwide, according to the most recent data from the National Funeral Directors Association.

Professional services fee: This is a basic non-declinable fee that covers the funeral

provider’s time, expertise and overhead: $2,300.

Transfer of the remains: This is for picking up the body and taking it to the funeral home: $350

Embalming and body preparation: Embalming is usually mandatory for open-casket viewing, otherwise it’s not required unless the body is going to be transported across state lines. Embalming costs $775. Other body preparations, which includes hairdressing and cosmetics runs $275.

Funeral viewing and ceremony: If the viewing and funeral ceremony is at the funeral home, you’ll be charged for use of the chapel and any necessary staff. Costs: $450 for viewing, and $515 for funeral ceremony.

Metal casket: This is a big money maker for funeral homes, with markups of up to 300 percent over the wholesale price: $2,500.

Funeral transportation: Use of hearse and driver; $325 to transport the body to the cemetery. Use of a service car/van:

$150.

Memorial printed package: This includes printed programs and memorial guest book: $183.

In addition to these costs, there are also a number of cemetery costs like the plot or mausoleum fee, the vault or grave liner that most cemeteries require, and the opening and closing of the grave, all of which can run between $2,000 and $3,000; and the gravestone, which typically runs between $1,000 and $3,000.

You’ll also need to budget for related expenses like flowers for the funeral ($200 to $400), the newspaper obituary fee ($100 to $800 or more), the clergy honorarium ($200 to $300) and extra copies of the death certificate ($5 to $35 per copy depending on the state).

All told, the average cost of a total U.S. funeral today with viewing and cemetery burial is around $12,000.

Ways to Save

If this is more than you’re willing or able to pay, there are ways to save. For starters, you should know that prices can vary sig-

nificantly by funeral provider, so it’s wise to shop around. If you need some help, there are websites you can turn to like Parting.com that lets you easily compare prices online based on what you want.

When evaluating funeral providers, be sure you get an itemized price list of services and products so you can accurately compare and choose what you want.

The most significant way to save is to request a “direct burial” or “direct cremation.” With these options you and your wife would be buried or cremated shortly after death, which skips the embalming and viewing. If you want a memorial service, you can have it at the graveside or at your place of worship without the body. These services usually run between $1,000 and $3,000, not counting cemetery charges.

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.

(Additional stats and information by Brian Kiser)

As the Ironmen football captains head back to their own sidelines, CHS ball boy Lee Roy Montgomery takes the game ball out onto the field at Rudisill Stadium.

(photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Lee Roy Montgomery (back to camera) talks with varsity Ironmen player Noah Hollingsworth (#89) on the side lines at a recent CHS home game.

Striking a pose – CHS’ ball boy and sports team manager, Lee Roy Montgomery, prior to a recent Ironmen home game at Rudisill Stadium.