Cherryville Eagle 2-22-23

Cherryville Historical Museum primary topic of last Monday’s council meeting

CFD; CPD chiefs give End-of-Year (2022) reports for their respective departments

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

While there weren’t all that many line-item topics on the Monday, Feb. 13, 2023 Council agenda, the biggest and most passionately discussed topic of the meeting – and the one that wasn’t listed on the agenda – was that of the Cherryville Historical Museum and its proposed sale by the City of Cherryville.

Pastor G. Scott Homesley of St. John’s Lutheran Church opened the meeting with a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. After the council approved

the past agendas, Mayor H.L. Beam, III commented the council would “… dispense with the Mayor’s Comments due to the number of people we have signed up to speak.” Fire Chief Jason Wofford gave the 2022 End-of-Year Report to council, noting their total calls of 1,174 was “…up 200 (calls) from the previous year.” Chief Wofford also said, referencing a pie chart on the report, that their largest volume of calls was from Rescue & Emergency Management (46.42 percent), followed by Service Calls (36.37 percent).

“Fire losses amounted to $101,000,” Chief Wofford said. “Our off-duty response to calls were as follows: Assistant Chief Colby Heffner with 59 calls; myself with 36 calls; Trent Rayfield with 24 calls; Nathan Bowman

with 23 calls; Jason Ledbetter with 8; Doyle Brown with 6; Kaylee drum with 3; and Chad Duvall with 2.” Chief Wofford said the department is “slowly recovering from our COVID

McHenry rejects ‘wokeness’ allegations in Financial Services Committee agenda

by CAROLINA JOURNAL STAFF

Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-NC10, is receiving pushback from conservative media for language on “diversity and inclusion” in the jurisdiction descriptions for each of the subcommittees of the U.S. House Financial Services Committee, of which he took over as chair following the Republicans’ narrow victory in the 2022 midterms.

Washington Free Beacon led with the headline, “Woke Agenda Survives: These House Republicans Are Sticking With ‘Diversity and Inclusion,‘” and a

headline from the American Conservative read, “The DEI Republicans.”

But in Jan. 24 comments to Carolina Journal, See WOKENESS, Page 2

Medicaid expansion bill glides through committees in the state House of Representatives

by ROSE HOBAN North Carolina Health News

Often legislative committee hearings are sleepy affairs, attended by lawmakers, lobbyists and the occasional person interested in the intricacies of government.

That was not the case Tuesday, Feb. 14, on the sixth floor of the legislative office building. The size and excitement of the crowd looked more like someone had a small stash of

See BILL Page 6

making him, the chief said, “…a full Fire Marshal.” Chief Wofford continued, “Assistant Chief Colby Heffner and Capt. Nathan Bowman also received their NC Pyrotechnics Operator Certifications, and it is under their licenses we are able to do our fireworks for our July 4th celebration.”

Additionally, the CFD has completed 200 inspections.

Councilwoman Jill Parker-Puett congratulated Chief Wofford and his department on a job well done.

years.” He also noted the average time for them to get to a call was four minutes and 57 seconds with an average turnout time of one minute, 40 seconds. Total training hours, according to Chief

Wofford, were 6,159.1, and certifications received by full-time personnel were by Doyle Brown, who received his NC Firefighter Certification; Colby Heffner, who received his Fire Inspector III,

Cherryville’s new Chief of Police, Brandon Hunsucker, took the podium and gave the Police Department’s 2022 End-of-Year Report starting with an organizational chart.

Chief Hunsucker told

See COUNCIL, Page 9

Come

April, the bright blue, orange school colors, and vivid LED screen of the new sign will enhance the school’s look

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

John Chavis Middle School Principal Matt Rikard said recently the school will soon have a new sign out front, and everyone is excited about it, having seen images of what it will look like.

Rikard said the school’s current sign is “…aged and will no longer light up properly at night.”

He continued, “The school has many upgrades inside and out thanks to GCS and the support of the bond, and we feel like that a new sign will continue to modernize the look of the school. It will also provide us a way to instantly communicate with our parents in a new and dynamic way.”

As for who is going to build it and install it, Mr. Rikard noted a company called Sign Connection out of Gastonia, designed it and will build it. As for the cost, he added, “The cost will vary based on final design.”

When asked if the new sign will be larger or smaller than what is currently out there, Matt said, “The new one will be larger and contain See CHAVIS, Page 2

Cherryville City Council members listen to comments from individual speakers at last Monday night’s, Feb. 13 regular council session held at the Community Building. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

REP. PATRICK MCHENRY

(photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Advocates handed out little baggies of chocolates with encouraging messages to lawmakers, along with an information sheet with statistics about Medicaid expansion. (photo by Rose Hoban/NCHealth News)

■ OBITUARIES

He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters. Survivors include his wife, Linnie Laws Kiser; sons, Bill Tilley (Leeanne), and Chad Kiser; daughters, Shar Kiser, and Ashley Kiser; niece, Melenda Osbourne; six (6) grandchildren; and five (5) great-grandchildren.

Marvin A. Kiser

CHERRYVILLE – Marvin Andrew Kiser, 69, of Carroll Dr., passed away Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, at his residence. He was born Sept. 20, 1953, in Lincoln County to the late Luther and Jane Carpenter Kiser. Marvin had several hobbies including woodworking, fishing, gardening, and watching Western movies. He also enjoyed motorcycles and listening to Elvis. Marvin loved his family dearly and will be missed.

WOKENESS

From Page 1 McHenry says the language reflects jurisdiction over those topics but not a similar mission with Democrats. He also noted that he eliminated the “Diversity and Inclusion” subcommittee on the U.S. House Financial Services Committee and replaced it with a Subcommittee on Digital Assets.

“For four years under Democrat rule, the Financial Services Committee was sidetracked by far-left social policy pet projects,” McHenry said. “That effort was housed in the Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee. North Carolinians made it clear last November when they helped elect a Republican House majority that woke mandates and progressive posturing was not their priority. That’s why, one of my first acts as Chairman was to eliminate that Subcommittee and put in its place a Subcommittee on Digital Assets—a critical issue, particularly in light of the actions of Sam Bankman-Fried and FTX.”

McHenry said that statements by his immediate predecessor, Democrat Rep. Maxine Waters of California, shows the difference between the priorities of the two parties. Waters blasted McHenry in the statement for getting rid of the Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee.

“I am deeply disappointed and disturbed to hear that committee Republicans plan to eliminate the diversity and inclusion subcommittee,” said Waters in her statements. “Our efforts to combat inequities in America’s financial services systems including wealth inequality, gender and racial wage gaps, and high poverty rates ushered in major wins for women, communities of color, and minority-owned and wom-

CHAVIS

From Page 1 a LED board on each side so that parents can see messages from either direction.”

As for the funding for the new sign, Mr. Rikard noted that Gaston County Schools, “… does help with the funding and installation (of the new sign), but the school must pay for upwards of 75 percent of it.”

To that end he said the school has something special planned to help raise the necessary funds. Said Rikard, “We are doing a donor wall in the

His family received friends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 at the home of Bill Tilley, located at 101 Linda Dr., Cherryville, NC, 28021.

A Celebration of Life was held at 12 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 at the home of Bill Tilley with Rev. Jeremy Carson officiating. Memorials may be made to Linnie Kiser at 101 Linda Dr., Cherryville, NC, 28021. Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.

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

en-owned businesses. Not to mention, we finally put a spotlight on the challenges facing persons with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community and justice-involved individuals.”

McHenry appointed the outgoing ranking member of the Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee, Rep. Ann Wagner of Missouri, to chair a subcommittee overseeing capital markets. McHenry’s shuffling of the pivotal committee and its leadership shows his priorities for his time as chairman, including crypto and financial technology.

“Ranking Member Waters’ press release in response to my elimination of the D&I Subcommittee exemplifies Democrats’ radical views regarding diversity—views Republicans do not share and will not pursue as part of the Committee’s agenda,” McHenry said. “I can tell you what Republicans are for: charting a path out of the dismal Biden economy, conducting oversight of rogue regulators, and ensuring access to financial products for all Americans. As Chairman, I will refocus the Committee on these and other kitchen table issues that matter most to families in North Carolina and across the U.S.”

McHenry did assert that there are positive elements to seeking diversity and inclusion, however, and that there would be some focus on these legitimate areas of oversight.

“We as conservatives can and should be attuned to any efforts to discriminate against American citizens and infringe upon their rights,” he said. “That is what I have deputized my Subcommittee Chairs to do. This is not about woke-ism or mandates on job creators; it’s an effort to ensure fair and equal access to our financial system no matter your race, party affiliation, or political beliefs.”

school and asking for donations of $100. With that, the donor’s name, company, or message will be displayed within the school on the donor wall. More information about ways to donate and our donor wall will be sent out in the coming weeks. Also, any corporate sponsor will be recognized in the school in other ways.”

Principal Rikard said the order for the sign will hopefully be placed by April, and installation will occur over the summer.

“We will have a public unveiling – hopefully before the start of school in conjunction with our open house,” he said.

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

2-11: Seann Christopher Sparks, 31, 307 Black St., Cherryville, was arrested at Foster St., and Allen Ln., Gastonia, by GCPD officers on one count of an OFA for contempt of court/perjury/ court violation.

2-12: Adam Wayne Philbeck, 35, 529 Anthony Grove Rd., Crouse, was arrested at White Jenkins Rd., and White Paysour Rd., Gastonia, by GCPD officers on one count each of resist arrest or escape from custody and larceny/ other.

INCIDENTS

2-8: Cherryville woman reports identity theft by un-

known person(s) who stole her Social Security number. Case is active and under further investigation.

2-9: Morganton woman reports obtaining property by false pretense ($5,000/ money) by an unknown suspect who withdrew funds without the account holder’s permission. Case is active and under further investigation.

2-10: Two Cherryville men report unattended death by listed victim who was found on at her Cherryville address. Case is inactive.

2-10: Cherryville woman reports all other larceny by unnamed person(s) who stole

her jewelry/precious metals/ gems (one item) and three (3) rings. Est. value of stolen items: $5,000. Case is active and under further investigation.

2-16: GCPD officers report further investigation into a larceny-other incident at 1650 Shelby Hwy., Cherryville.

2-17: On Feb. 16, GCPD officers report further investigation into a fraud-false pretenses/swindle/confidence game at 626 Old Post Rd., Cherryville.

WRECKS

2-3: A vehicle driven by Danny Charles Lovelace, 60, 108 Harley Ct., Shelby, was

traveling east on Old Post Rd., Cherryville, when he struck a deer, causing minor to moderate damage to his vehicle. No injuries were reported.

2-10: A vehicle driven by Patrick Eugene Donaldson, 31, 2220 Southport Rd., Lot 12, Shelby, failed to reduce speed while traveling east on Church St., in Cherryville, and collided in the rear with a vehicle driven by Kimberly Jones Henderson, 64, 414 S. Webb St., Gastonia. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Donaldson vehicle: $500; to the Henderson vehicle: $300.

Gaston County Schools Schools

What’s going on at your Cherryville Branch Library

by TRACI POLLITT Branch Manager Cherryville

Branch Library

LEGO Club – Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

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

Chessmates – Monday, Feb. 27 at 4:30 p.m.

Craft & Chat – Friday, March 10 at 11 a.m.

Youth Book Club –Monday, March 13 at 4:30 p.m.

Teen Anime Club –Thursday, March 16 at 4:30 p.m.

In addition to the new Seed Bank inside the Cherryville Branch Library, there is now a coat closet outside as well. This initiative was started at the Belmont Branch of the Gaston County Public Library approximately one year ago by branch manager Katie Love. The closet was named in memory of Sam Leonhardt, a former employee who worked at the Main branch of GCPL.

After seeing the impact the closet and its donations had on the Belmont community, the decision was made to offer the closets at all GCPL branch locations. Cherryville’s closet was the last to be installed...we consider it saving the best for last!

We are now seeking donations of new and gently used clothing for all ages as well as all sizes. Packages of new socks and underwear will be greatly appreciated, as will new toiletries such as deodorant, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Please bring all items inside the library to an employee during public service hours. The closet will be open 24/7 for anyone who may need items offered. We know our community is very generous and we have a feeling our closet will be full in no time!

Are you a fan of the Gaston County Friends of the Library annual book

sale? Have you been waiting for this year’s sale?

You will love this year’s news: the sale will run a FULL WEEK in April, from Monday, April 10 through Saturday, April 15. That’s right – an extra two (2) days of great finds and awesome deals! Proceeds from the annual sale are dedicated to providing equipment, furnishings, resources, and programming for library patrons. We have flyers available to take home and post on your refrigerator (or wherever you post your most important reminders). Stop by to get yours!

For all other library-related questions, feel free to call us at (704) 769-8190, or stop by the branch at 605 E. Main Street. Our public service hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday. As always, friends… Happy Reading!

Gaston County Schools –Good News, January 23

The following teachers earned National Board Certification in 2022-2023: Hannah Allen, Rankin Elementary; Samuel Bruce, Stuart W. Cramer High; Katherine Cochran, North Belmont Elementary; Jenna Markwith, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy; Tiffany Newsome, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, Tali Norman, Department for Exceptional Children; Jeanette Rios, Robinson Elementary; Anita Ross, Carr Elementary; and Allison Sisk, New Hope Elementary.

Park Elementary; Beverley Smith-Burney, Lingerfeldt Elementary; Jazmyn Reid, Holbrook Middle; and Joseph Armitage, Hunter Huss High School.

100 West Main Street Cherryville, NC 28021

The five finalists for Gaston County Schools Teacher of the Year 2023-2024 are Melissa Clements, Belmont Middle School; Lindsay Dickerson Beverly, Forestview High School; Joanna Kirk Dotson, Tryon Elementary; Michael Kaufman, East Gaston High School; and Jamie Monk, Highland School of Technology. The winner will be announced in May.

The “Do the Right Thing” award winners for January are Jesiah Maynor, Gardner

The following elementary students earned awards at the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair: Henry Markwith, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, Duke Energy Elementary Division Winner; Lathan Allan, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, Schiele Award of the Earth; Aniston Johnson and Berkley Livingston, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, third place in environmental science; Rachel Jones and Avery Price, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place in environmental science; Allia Bullard and Emerson Cronin, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, first place in environmental science; Selah Rose Smith, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy; third place in biological science; Lilian Galdamez, Robinson Elementary, second place in biological science; Cameron Green and Pierson McSwain, Hawks

Nest STEAM Academy, first place in biological science; Everet Alexander, Robinson Elementary, third place in chemistry; Iris Ritter, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place in chemistry; Morgan Barnhill and Eason Hobbs, W.A. Bess Elementary, first place in chemistry; Wyatt Martin and Trenton Phillips, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, third place in physics and mathematics; Abigail Yost, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place in physics and mathematics; Connor Abernathy and Anderson West, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, first place in physics and mathematics; Damien Worman, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy third place in engineering and technology; Lochlan Blair, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place in engineering and technology; and Samuel Diamond, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, first place in engineering and technology.

The following middle school students earned See GOOD NEWS, Page 10

Your Cherryville Branch Library’s new outside coat closet. (photos provided)

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE:

Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains to bring it to light.

George Washington

Simple question here: what makes a

The way things have been going lately, it has been hard not to start feeling sorry (or scared) for our ever-aging selves, I said to my darling wife the other day.

We’ve lost a few friends and family members this past year or so; some from old age; some from COVID-19 and related health issues; and a few from unforeseen situations beyond their control. And we’re on track – according to some emails and texts we have recently received from folks back in Kentucky – to lose a couple more…

By Michael Powell michael.cherryvilleeagle@gmail.com

Here in Cherryville, we’ve lost some good –no, some GREAT – people too. I could try and name them here but I fear I would miss one or two and would never forgive myself if I did. Also, all of them deserve better epitaphs and words written about them than some dumb word hack like me could ever pen in a short column.

As for health issues?

Well, we have had our share of them, and let me tell you here and now, that’s NO picnic! For my part, I’ve broken a lot of bones in my lifetime and had more than few broken for me; some by people I knew who didn’t mean to, and some by people I didn’t know.

And my wife, well, she too has broken a few herself. We thank God every day they weren’t as bad as they could have been, though they were no easy thing to handle either!

I was thinking back the other day about some of my old friends, many of whom, as I said, have gone on to their heavenly (or so I hope and pray!) reward. As I thought about them, a smile would appear on my face, causing my dear wife to ask me what I was thinking. Occasionally,

there would be a smile along with a tear or two, which really got her interested in my thoughts.

While I had many buddies when I was at the ripe old age of 10 to 12, my one true friend was my cousin, Robert – a.k.a. “Bubbie”. He was like the brother I never had (I’m an only child). He had Muscular Dystrophy and was unable to walk after the age of seven. However, that didn’t stop him (or me) from getting into trouble, and I mean with a capital “T”! I guess I was his enabler since he couldn’t walk or run anywhere. But, with me pushing him around in his small, beat-up wheelchair, well, there was no place we couldn’t go where our – that is, MY – feet would take us.

We had us a mess of friends and cohorts in crime all about our same age and from our old neighborhood, and believe you me, we made the best of every golden summer the good Lord gave us.

A couple of those kids we lost along the way; some to sickness; some to accidents; a couple to just stupid bad luck on

School bullying must stop, everyone must work together

Four New Jersey teenagers have been charged in connection with the attack of a 14-year-old girl who later took her own life after video of the incident was posted on social media.

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

One juvenile is charged with aggravated assault, two juveniles are charged with conspiracy to commit aggravated assault and one juvenile is charged with harassment, Ocean County prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer told CBS News in an email. (cbsnews.com)

Adriana Kuch, 14, was found dead in her Bayville home on Feb. 3, 2023, two days after the disturbing video of the attack at Central Regional High School was posted online. The video showed girls throwing a drink at the teen, then kicking and dragging her down school hallways. They pushed Adriana into red lockers lining the school hallways and one of the girls in a pink shirt punched Kuch repeatedly. (Source CBSNews.com)

When I was an elementary child riding the school bus, we had a few fights on the bus. One young man who didn’t live that far from me was constantly getting into fights on the school bus. One day he had a kid down repeatedly punching him in the face. The bus driver stopped the

bus and escorted both boys off the bus while still a couple of miles from their homes. We then drove off and left them on the road. I don’t recall seeing the fight continue as they now had to walk or hitchhike a ride to get home. Since the one boy was being beaten so bad, I don’t think the driver made the best decision since the other kid could have finished him off on the rural road we were traveling. However, it did appear the fight had stopped as we drove off. Most likely not having a bus audience, bleeding, and having to walk home changed the scenario.

In the 60s and 70s there were bad things that happened in schools that often got swept under the rug. With no social media kids usually ended up working it out or staying away from people we didn’t like. Often many of us never took our school problems home because our parents had enough problems without having to worry about our school fusses. Or, we were afraid we might get in trouble at home.

School children face challenges. There are ongoing pressures from bullies who must be corralled and disciplined, dismissed from school or in some cases put in a place where they can get rehabilitation and help for their psychotic issues. Locking a 14-year-old up in jail for years solves nothing. However, kids that bring about

their part (wrong place, wrong time). Some fell by the wayside and went to jail; never coming back from that life pathway they chose. As we all got older, age dealt many of us bad blows, as did diseases we didn’t even know existed then. I mean, cancer, diabetes, heart attacks, strokes? Those things happened to other people, not us. We were invincible! We thought we were going to live forever. Turns out, God had other plans for all of us. Some of us stuck around; some of us didn’t get to. That’s life, I guess.

Anyway, I ran across this little quote from an old column from another newspaper I wrote for back in the day. It best describes how I feel sometimes about how things in the world look to me today.

I took it from the wellknown horror and mystery author Stephen King’s novella, “The Body,” from which they made the movie, “Stand by Me.”

This phrase really spoke to me when I first read it and it speaks to me still. Maybe it might help someone through tough times like it does me, when I think about how life deals

with us and our family and friends, past and present.

At the end of the story, King’s character writes, “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve… Jesus… does anyone?”

We all have family and friends today, but not like the ones we had then, know what I mean? After all, what REALLY makes a true friend?

Anyway… I pray you have true friends. If you do, treasure them always and tell them so.

Be safe and stay healthy this winter, y’all! And remember, spring’s coming!

injury or death to another student need mental help and rehabilitation before being freed to invoke pain on someone again. Most likely if your family has lost a family member to a bully you want the offender locked up for life.

Even though my school era was not a perfect world, schoolteachers and principals had authority to paddle us. They had authority to discipline us, suspend us from school and could put ‘bite’ with their ‘bark’. We knew the teachers ruled and we respected them. I can remember seeing paddling’s that I never wanted to get and I also received a couple myself.

No school has the ability to patrol every corner of a school facility. Bullying, fights and bad things typically occur in unsupervised spaces. Schools can’t hire enough security guards or have enough monitors to patrol ever corner.

Every day, in every state in America, a private school is starting or the ground work is being formulated.

Ten years from now almost every city and every small community in America will have a private or faith-based school. Some of these will only be elementary schools but many have or will develop junior and senior highs. Such schools are not free of their own issues but parents across America are desperate for safe places for their kids. Parents want a place where there is zero tolerance of bullies and an administration who means

Cherryville is a special place to live…

Tommy and I recently had the privilege and the opportunity to attend a very special service conducted at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cherryville. It was a remembrance service for the precious people from this town and surrounding area who passed away in the year of 2022. We had a very special reason to be there that day at Mt. Zion as we lost our Aunt Jo Elaine Haynes this past year. She was the beloved wife of our Uncle Hoyle, and she was a very special lady. She spent her career as a math teacher at Bessemer City High School. Her reputation was one of strictness and fairness. As a retired teacher myself I can relate to those characteristics for

By Anne S. Haynes

they go hand in hand together. Some people who are not in education may not understand the connection, but it definitely is there. Aunt Jo is definitely missed by many people of various ages, but especially by her family.

There were many names called at the remembrance service as their family members stood in their honor. There were many names Tommy and I recognized, especially the name of our dear neighbor, Frances Womack.

I grew up across the highway from Frances and her beloved family. Frances was always so good to us, and we really enjoyed having them as

neighbors and friends. She had three children named Kim, Kevin, and Lisa that my brothers and I played with as kids and remained friends with as adults. There’s something very special about childhood friends that you never forget.

To me it says a lot about a town that takes the time and effort to remember its citizens and pay tribute to them after they have left this world. We are blessed to have remarkable funeral homes in Cherryville that are dedicated to serving all of the surrounding areas and paying tribute to citizens who have departed. I believe everyone likes to be remembered whether they actually admit it or not.

I definitely believe all of God’s people deserve to be remembered because He made each person special.

business about protecting the children. They want an environment where their children can be mentored, taught, and prepared better for life, college or to move into adult jobs.

Parents don’t want a school they feel is working against them or hiding things from them.

Life is like this. The world is like a jungle most days. There are bullies in the workplaces, neighborhoods, and mean people

can be found all over. This is why we have the right to call 911. We can file charges against people with the police. We should have the right to carry a firearm and defend ourselves. We have to work to help each other and protect each other.

Teachers, administrators, parents and students must work together for safety and security. Children and teachers must feel safe with an environ-

ment free from bullying, hazing or intimidation. Kids should not have to wake up every day fearful of going to school. Neither should the school staff and parents.

The issue of bullying and school safety requires school boards, all staff, parents, and students to work together.

It’s not a task for a few to accomplish but it IS a job for us all!

A true ‘mountaintop’

is something never to forget

“Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James and his brother, John, and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with Him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, I will make

three dwellings here, one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’

While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; with Him I am well pleased; listen to Him!’

When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.

As they were com-

Clear The Air

Relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors are rewarding and fulfilling.

Sometimes, there are conflicts, disagreements, and contention which is normal. A problem develops when no one wants to admit to being wrong, or apologize for behavior that brought heartache to the one they claim to love. When nothing is done to remove the tension and repair the bond, the hurt and misunderstanding continue to fester until it becomes a broken relationship. God desires us to have peace with one another and himself. In fact, he commands us to mend our relationships, because how we treat others affects our relationship with God. Jesus states in Matthew 5:23-24 (CSB) says, “So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.”

Remove Any Hinderance

Just as God wants us to be at peace with people, he also wants us to be at peace with him. He will never stop loving us, because his love is unconditional and eternal. Also, Jesus paid the ultimate price for our sins. His sacrifice took care of everything we would do past, present and future. However, if we want to continue to grow in our relationship with God and experience that freedom in him, we need to confess our sins, and receive God’s forgiveness. I John 1:8-9 (NLT) says, “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” God is not pleased if we ignore the sin in our lives, but he delights in those who are honest with him and are striving to have a pure heart before him. Proverbs 28:13 (NLT) says, “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.

PRAY THIS PRAYER: “Father I praise you for being a gracious and merciful God. Thank you for loving me despite my faults. I know that I could never do anything to make you love me more or make you love me less. However, I want a close relationship with you. I don’t want anything hindering me from intimacy with you. You are my God and I am yours. Everything that I am and have I surrender to you now. Forgive me for pride and selfishness. I have disobeyed your word. I receive your forgiveness. I will turn and pay attention to your corrections. Please pour out your spirit on me; Lord, make your words known to me. I love 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.

ing down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, ‘Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.’” Matthew 17: 1-9 I, like a lot of people, love the mountains. I have always, from a small child until now, loved the mountains. I like to ride in the mountains. I like to hike and camp in the mountains. I just like to sit on a mountain top and look at the surrounding countryside. I have experienced many spiritual events in my life in the mountains. This Gospel message from Matthew is one of my many favorite stories in the Bible and as you can guess, it is because of the mountains.

Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain. Can you imagine how magnificent that trip would have been, just from the very fact that Jesus invited them to go with Him up the mountain. However, there was more; on this mountain Jesus was transfigured before them. “Transfigured” is one of those church words that we don’t use in everyday language. When our children were young, they had toys called Transformers. These action figures changed from cars and trucks to various monsters or animals. I used their Transformers to explain being “transfigured” in several childrens’

sermons. Jesus changed before their very eyes; His clothes became dazzling white and appearing with Him was Moses and Elijah, the great Old Testament prophets. I have had a lot of spiritual experiences on mountains, but never any like this. Could you only imagine? Peter was dumbfounded, James and John speechless; seeing before them these great prophets with Jesus. Peter wanted to stay and even build huts, but a voice from heaven shushed him. The voice said, “This is My Son, the Beloved; with Him I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Then Jesus was alone. A true ‘mountaintop’ experience; some-

Cherryville Area

Places of Worship

thing never to forget. Jesus, God’s Son, offers us everlasting life. Jesus would go to the Cross and die for you and for me, but more importantly be raised from the dead. Even though we are not worthy to receive this gracious gift it is offered to us. This is a mountain top experience and we, like Peter, James and John, are witnesses and are called to not stay on the mountain, but to come down and tell the world the wonderful news of our Savior, Jesus. Jesus invites each of us into this journey with Him, a journey that will take us to the mountain top.

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

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. G. SCOTT HOMESLEY St. John’s Lutheran Church of Cherryville

DANYALE PATTERSON

BILL

From Page 1

Taylor Swift tickets or the hottest new iPhone for sale.

Lobbyists and advocates of expanding the state’s Medicaid program were jammed into a hallway, hoping to get inside the room where something, after more than a decade of waiting, might start to happen.

State House committees were set to discuss House Bill 76, Access to Healthcare Options, which could create a pathway for hundreds of thousands of low-income North Carolinians to receive health coverage. The potential recipients are largely low-income workers who earn too much to qualify for the program as it is currently structured. But if North Carolina pulled down federal dollars that other states do, they could qualify and be added to the Medicaid rolls.

The program, as is, mostly covers children from families with low incomes, some of their parents, people with disabilities and seniors with limited financial means. For many low-income workers, health insurance can be out of reach because they earn too little to qualify for subsidies available through the federal health insurance online marketplace.

Rep. Donny Lambeth, the Republican from Winston-Salem who is the primary sponsor of the bill,

said it’s time for North Carolina to get off the list of 12 states that have not adopted Medicaid expansion. The issue has been a political flashpoint in North Carolina since the Republican-led General Assembly voted in 2013 to reject the portion of President Barack Obama’s hallmark Affordable Care Act that makes expansion possible.

“North Carolina would become the 39th state,”

Lambeth told the House Health Committee Tuesday morning. “We’ve learned from other states, we had hearings in this room that brought in a number of other states.”

Lambeth argued that since North Carolina moved the Medicaid program to a managed care regimen in 2021, it has resulted in more budget predictability and efficiency than when Medicaid was operated as a feefor-service program.

“We have a good system now,” Lambeth said. “It’s been working for a while.”

After just 18 minutes, with little discussion, the bill passed the health committee with only a handful of opposing votes. A similar scene unfolded in a House finance committee in the afternoon, where the entire discussion took less than 15 minutes, with no opposing votes.

Medicaid expansion –after a 10-year wait – seems to be breezing through the state House of Representatives.

The biggest challenge

Notice of Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Cherryville City Council will meet on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cherryville Community Building located at 106 S Jacob Street to hold a Public Hearing in consideration of a Zoning Map Amendment for Parcels 158034, 158072, 158038, 158037 and 307416. The properties are currently located within the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction of the City of Cherryville and it has been requested to be relinquished to the Gaston County Zoning Jurisdiction.

For more information, please contact Zoning Administrator Alex Blackburn at 704-435-1705 or at ablackburn@cityofcherryville.com

CE (2/22 & 3/1/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF BILLY HUGH YOUNG

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Billy Hugh Young, 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 8th day of May, 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 8th day of February, 2023.

Janet Martin King

Executrix

Counsel for the Estate: PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR.

ATTORNEY AT LAW

106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (2/08, 15, 22 & 3/01/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th day of December, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of CARYL B. AUSTELL; AKA, CARYL BEAM AUSTELL, 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 McIntyre Elder Law in Shelby, NC on or before the May 1st, 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 1st day of February, 2023.

Elizabeth Austell Shuford, Executrix

Estate of: Caryl B. Austell; aka, Caryl Beam Austell Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

CE (2/1, 08, 15 & 22/2023)

now will be getting the Senate on board.

No work requirement

Lambeth and another primary sponsor Rep. Donna White (R-Clayton) have been at the forefront of other Republican-generated bills to expand Medicaid in the 2017, 2019 and 2021 sessions. There’s a noticeable difference in the latest rendition, which drew broad interest in the committee meetings on Tuesday – there is no proposed work requirement for new program beneficiaries. That had been a caveat that most Republican-led states tried to enact in conjunction with expansion programs. But federal judges have consistently blocked states from creating work requirements for Medicaid. The federal legislation that created Medicaid in 1965 defines the program as an entitlement, open to everyone who falls in the coverage category.

During the Trump administration, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services moved to approve states’ requests for adding work requirements, but the Biden administration has generally frowned on such efforts.

Advocates have long argued that most of the people who would gain Medicaid coverage under expansion are already working. They have held up people like child care workers, farmers, ministers and others who earn lower wages in companies and jobs that don’t provide health benefits as the primary beneficiaries. The bill would include people earning up to 133 percent of the federal poverty level, which translates to $19,391 for an individual or $33,064 for a family of three.

“Most of these people who will qualify are actually working,” Lambeth said. “They just can’t afford health care.”

For others who are not working, House Bill 76 requires the state Department of Commerce to collaborate with the state Department of Health and Human Services to “create a seamless, statewide, comprehensive workforce development program,” that will be known as NC Health Works.

“I bet you hear that every day in your district that people, employers, small businesses can’t get enough workers,” Lambeth said. “We do need to figure out the magic behind helping individuals who actually would qualify for this program, potentially improve themselves.”

The initiative put forward by Lambeth duplicates the strategy taken by Montana when it expanded Medicaid. Lambeth said members of a North Carolina Medicaid study committee that met last year “really liked” that model. The Montana program helped match its new Medicaid recipients who were unemployed with job training and employment opportunities. That excluded students, caregivers, disabled people or beneficiaries in drug treatment programs.

In Montana, about 13,000 people participated in that state’s job program, and 72 percent got a job once they finished employment training, according to a report generated by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. Health care professions accounted for seven of the top 10 jobs that people in the training program pursued, according to one finding.

Hospitals give, get

One stumbling block over the past decade for expansion was the question of who would pick up the tab for the additional recipients.

The Affordable Care Act stipulates that the federal government would pick up 90 percent of the cost for the new beneficiaries, while states need to cover the other 10 percent.

Estimates for the North Carolina portion of the coverage range from $224 million in the first year to about $700 million by the fourth year. One section of House Bill 76 would change the way hospitals get paid by the federal government for caring for Medicaid patients. The legislation would use the federal Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program, which is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and reimburses hospitals at a rate closer to

the actual cost of care. State health officials say the program would bump up reimbursement for hospitals across the state by about $3 billion per year, but in exchange for North Carolina enacting the program, hospitals would foot the bill for the extra beneficiaries.

Hospitals have long complained that they were already footing the bill for uninsured patients who showed up at their doors. Many hospital representatives say the health care facilities are now willing to pick up the state’s share – as long as the stabilization program is enacted.

“In 2021, Novant Health provided over $727 million in unpaid Medicare coverage and over $111 million in Medicaid coverage to patients,” a Novant Health spokesperson said in an email to NC Health News. “We support the passing of the Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program (HASP) to ensure hospitals have the financial fortitude to care for Medicaid patients.”

‘Counting on you’

Among health care lobbyists and advocates, the excitement over the House bill was palpable. Many advocates wore red for Valentine’s Day, accessorizing their outfits with stickers picturing a large red heart and reading, “Love thy neighbor. Expand Medicaid!”

Abby Emanuelson, head of Care4Carolina said that while the bill only received about a half hours’ worth of discussion – total – in the two hearings, the day’s outcome was the result of “numerous years” of work and “lots of Zoom minutes.”

“Coalitions have been talking to these members, really getting a lot of good conversations going and, of course, as we heard from Rep. Lambeth today, he’s been talking to his colleagues for a number of years as well about this,” Emanuelson said.

For the past decade, the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce has declined to take a position on Medicaid expansion, but this year a number of other politically conservative and business-friendly groups have

endorsed the policy, Emanuelson noted. She said that includes local chambers of commerce from metro areas and rural counties, and multiple boards of county commissioners.

Erica Palmer Smith, who preceded Emanuelson at Care4Carolina, pointed out that other states that have expanded have seen economic benefit.

“Studies have shown that states increase jobs whenever they pass Medicaid expansion,” said Palmer Smith, who now leads the advocacy group NC Child. “Louisiana saw an additional 18,000 jobs, Colorado saw an additional 30,000 jobs.

“I think this is going to be a tremendous benefit for all of those local economies, for their small businesses, for the employees themselves,” Palmer Smith added.

The biggest challenge to enacting House Bill 76 lies on the other side of the legislative building. While the Senate overwhelmingly passed Medicaid expansion last year, their bill included measures to overhaul the state’s laws limiting hospital competition and also included measures to loosen restrictions on advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists. That bill never received a hearing in the House.

“The title is ‘Access to Care,’ yet it doesn’t do anything to increase access in terms of facilities or personnel,” Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters last week about this year’s bill. “It’s not the bill we need in North Carolina expanding Medicaid.”

Lambeth said it was a coincidence that Tuesday’s committee votes occurred on Valentine’s Day. Nonetheless, he shared with his colleagues a holiday rhyme sent to him by a constituent.

“‘Roses are red, violets are blue, our neighbors need affordable health care, and that’s counting on you,’” Lambeth read. “That pretty much says it all.”

CHS softball team gets in skill drills before practices start in earnest

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Well, folks. It’s that time again; the time all you Cherryville Lady Ironmen softball fans have been earnestly waiting for – time for the Lady Ironmen softball team to get out on the CHS softball field again and start honing those skills with bat and glove.

The ladies worked hard last week on the mound, behind the plate, on the plate, and out on the big green and brown diamond-shaped spot of local softball heaven in anticipation of another stellar year of Lady Ironmen ball playing!

That said, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, head softball coach A.J. Henley, along with a few of his assistant coaches, and a smattering of players, came out onto the CHS field, braving the cool weather in order to get in a couple of skill drills prior to them being able to start official practices and begin their season.

Coach Henley and his assistants put the ladies through their paces as Coach Henley hit them a couple of shots in varying places in the field, watching to see how they did after being away for almost a whole year from playing. Coach Williams gave the ladies their instructions and directions for ball handling out in the infield while coaches Walls

Expect to see a number of familiar faces when the season starts up in earnest this month, along with a good crew of newer young ladies who are coming out to play for Coach Henley for their first time in high school. He also noted they have been out doing a few of these skill sets earlier in anticipation of the season’s start of actual practice and this was

sitions during Coach Henley’s skill drills set last week at CHS’ Field.

just one of many the young ladies have been at.

“I don’t have any seniors on the team this year at all,” noted Coach Henley.

Henley had a couple of his assistants on the field with him last week: AC’s

Ron

Williams, and Bailey Scronce were all there to help him and to dole out coaching advice to the young ladies who will comprise this year’s Lady Ironmen.

2023 NCHSAA Individual Wrestling State Tournament Championship Semifinal results

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) continued the 87th Annual Individual Wrestling State Tournament at the Greensboro Coliseum on Friday, Feb. 17, 2023.

Day Two – Day Two wrapped up with the Championship Semifinals in all classifications. The Championship matches will followed the Parade of Champions on Saturday, Feb. 18.

These are the text results for the Championship Semifinals matches in the 1A Classification (CHS wrestlers

only). Wrestlers who were defeated in this round have not been eliminated from the tournament but will wrestle in the Consolation Third Round and cannot win an individual State Champion.

1A 152 lbs.

Chase Miller (Cherryville, 42-5) won by fall over Jacob Regitz (Bishop McGuinness, 48-4) (Fall 5:57)

1A 170 lbs.

Cael Dunn (Avery County, 50-1) won by fall over Kam Bolin (Cherryville,

36-12) (Fall 5:18)

1A 285 lbs.

Kohlton Neadeau (Swain County, 48-7) won by fall over Caleb Hovis (Cherryville, 33-23) (Fall 1:40) 2023 NCHSAA Individual Wrestling State Tournament Day 2 Consolation Second Round Results

1A 132 lbs.

Jack McArthur (Uwharrie Charter, 44-6) won by decision over Robbie Bowman (Cherryville, 34-17) (Dec 11-8)

1A 152 lbs.

Chase Miller (Cherryville, 41-5) won by tech fall over Alec Millikan (Uwharrie Charter, 15-3) (TF-1.5 4:00 (16-1))

1A 170 lbs.

Kam Bolin (Cherryville, 36-11) won by decision over Jesse Pope (South Davidson, 30-8) (Dec 6-2)

1A 195 lbs.

Jadon Maness (Uwharrie Charter, 24-5) won by decision over Tobias Miller (Cherryville, 44-10) (Dec 3-2)

1A 285 lbs. Caleb Hovis (Cherryville, 33-22) won by fall over Miles Gregory (Albemarle, 26-4) (Fall 5:16)

NCHSAA Individual Wrestling State Tournament ends with exciting finish on Day Three Day Three – The North Carolina High School Ath-

letic Association (NCHSAA) concluded the 87th Annual Individual Wrestling State

Tournament at the Greensboro Coliseum on Saturday, February 18, 2023. Day three

concluded with 56 champions crowned in the 14 weight See NCHSAA, Page 10

Walls, Jeff

A couple of the Lady Ironmen softball players came out last week at their home field in order to get in a little bit of skill drills prior to getting down to work for the 2023 softball season.

CHS baseball player Collin Huss signed a letter of intent (LOI) last week to play baseball for the Cleveland Community College Yetis. Huss, a senior, currently plays for the CHS

The CHS 2023 wrestlers and their coach, Matt Powers at Mitchell High School at the Feb. 10 and 11 All-Western 1A teams individual tournament. With Coach Powers are (L to R): Chase Miller, Tobias Miller, Robbie Bowman, Coach Powers, Caleb Hovis, and Kam Bolin. (photo from CHS IM Facebook page)

NC 28043 (828) 429-5228 ejw9738@gmail. com

ROOF HELP WANTED. Senior wants tin roof on her home cool-sealed and some renailing. No rust and no rot. Attic accessible. Easy slope. All roofers called only do new roofs. If interested, call 828289-2407. Experienced only.

NEEDED - VAN DRIVERS.

Part time positions transporting students and clients. Cleveland County area. Great for senior citizen. (704) 4665189

NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-

ERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR

ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

TIRED OF WORKING 5, 6

OR EVEN 7 DAYS A WEEK?

Get Started in light duty health care today! Work 3 days one week and 4 days the next.

One on One Care, Inc. serving Cleveland County since 1995 with 8 licensed facilities in Shelby is growing & hiring for approximately 50 positions. Veterans, Retirees, college students, teachers, and aides are encouraged to apply. Do you have experience as a Personal Care assistant? No experience? No worries, we provide training as well as CPR, NCI and Medication administration. CNA’s are encouraged to apply. Positions availableProfessionals with a 4 yr degree in Human Services or teaching full time, starting pay with no experience $36,500 yearly. Paraprofessional Staff FT/PT 8am-8pm or 8pm8am, 36 hours one week, 48 hours the next. Starting pay with no experience $24,500 yearly. Paraprofessional staff with more than 3 years experience. Starting pay $26,500 yearly. Hours are as followed: 8am-8pm or 8pm-8am, 36 hours one week, 48 hours the next. 3 Days one week and 4 days the next week. Parttime positions will be filled after full time positions have been met. Other positions and hours available as well.

1099 positions available for experienced staff. Pay differs per contract. Apply in person at 203 Lee St in Shelby, NC Monday thru Friday 8:30am5:00pm

BUSINESS SERVICES

PAINTING SERVICES. Over 25 years experience, affordable prices. Professional results. References available. Free estimates. Charles, or leave message. (704) 4358062.

EB MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & reliable. (704) 3002332

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st

ELEMENTARY

TUTOR. Accepting students for help in Reading and/or Math. $13 hr. Call Kathy, (704)

692-7250

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 704-472-9367.

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICE. Paint Kitchen Cabinets only and Stain Decks. Pre-estimated price. References available. 828429-7511 or 828-429-3743. Ask for James.

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

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

FOR SALE

DINING ROOM SUITE with 6 chairs, 2 leafs, china cabinet, buffet $400 obo. Also 2 upholstered chairs & 1 barstool, $40. All good condition. Call for details 704-834-9848

USED CAMPER TOPS:

BUY/SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. 828-9800788 or 828-286-8674.

LARGE PULL BEHIND

CAMPER. Tandem wheels on good heavy duty frame. $375. 704-718-9651, (704) 284-1694 ARROWHEADS, BOTTLE OPENERS, COINS. Located in Polkville, NC. (573) 5445806

MOVING SALE, ALMOST

EVERYTHING ONE QUARTER. FEBRUARY 18 @ 10AM, McSwain’s Self Storage – Ruth, NC 184 US-64, Rutherfordton, NC 28139 (336) 971-1713 marajoy@aol. com

C65 CHEVROLET DUMP TRUCK. 14’ bed, good tires. No CDL needed. Haul gravel, first. Work For Yourself. $3400. Call anytime. 704-7189651, (704) 284-1694

MOVING SALE. MUST BE SOLD BY FRI., FEB. 24th. Weber grill w/smoker, dining table with 6 chairs, computer console, area rug, gun safe, Whirlpool upright freezer, bedroom suite, La-Z-Boy recliner, Samsung 48” TV and many more items. Email polyspec@ aol.com or call 704-750-3783. (704) 750-3783

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

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

ZERO MOWER 48 INCH $1250. Mower 42 inch, 545 hours $800. Rocker, swivel recliner $100. O.B.O. 828657-4445 (leave voicemail).

TOTAL GYM FIT FOR SALE. New, still in box. Serious inquires only. $1800 or OBO. Leave message. 704-6922935.

1994 FORD RANGER.

(Needs Motor) $1800. Steven’s 12 Gauge $250, American Arms 12 Gauge $250, Oil Tank $200, Metal Burn Barrels, $15 Feed Barrels $20, Totes $75. Call Jeff 828-3724782.

2 CEMETERY LOTS WITH

SENIOR CARE PLAN (SRLIFE INS) All health conditions, even nursing facilities or incarcerated can get insured. Ages 0- 85 no medical exam required. Plans to fit your budget and with Legacy assurance membership it will lock in the price of a casket; headstone, vault for $4,000 or urn as low as $99. Don’t leave your family with a burden. Call your local rep(NC/SC) today Shelia Warthen 704-284-1106 (704) 284-1106 SReneeWarthen60@icloud.com

NEW RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING SERVICES are now available. Badger Plumbing is now open to service you at reasonable rates. Call 704524-3387.

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION, site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, pruning, planting, excavator work. 828453-8113.

AUCTIONS

PATTERSON SPRINGS STORAGE AUCTION PUBLIC SALE - 1:30PM, Feb. 24th, Patterson Springs Storage, 1826 Creek Ridge Rd., Shelby, NC. Contents of Units: #71 Byers, for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 4737358 andrew.sain@gmail. com

2 Concrete Vaults. Cleveland Memorial Park, Boiling Springs, NC. Lots are side by side. Located near mausoleum. Call 704-284-0227 to make offer.

TOOLS & RIFLE FOR SALE.

Paslode Finish Nailer, 16 gauge, Ruger Mini 14 Rifle and ammo, Bosch Mini Jackhammer. 828-302-5177.

WHITE COKE TABLE. Round, fair condition, 2 red metal folding Coke chairs, excellent condition and 2 Coke round pillows. $250 OBO. 704-769-4901

HORSE QUALITY HAY

SALE. Call (704) 487-6855

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. 704434-6389,

Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704600-6996 (980) 295-5568

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704482-2243. (704) 538-5788 NEW CAR SHED FOR THE NEW YEAR! 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

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD. Seasoned 95% Oak, 1/4 cord load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704-435-3970 or 704458-3081.

BEAUTIFUL CEMETERY PLOTS, GASTON MEMORIAL. 3 Available. Will sell one at a time. Need to sell. Make offer. 919-272-5503, call/text.

1980 FORD TRUCK. Has a running 302 engine, $2000. Also 6’x8’ trailer $300 and 14’ John Boat, $300. (980) 9253638 PURE RAW LOCAL HONEY. $20 quart, $12 pint. Produced in Rutherford County. Comb honey $24 quart. Call/ text Jackson Corbin 828-9801823.

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. 55 gallon drum $65 in your drum. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-3005341; Steve: 704-472-8865; Todd: 704-692-1627

WANT TO BUY

CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704692-6767, (704) 487-0228

BUYING OLD VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS. Looking to buy your old Nintendo, Sega, Dreamcast and Gameboy games and systems call or text me if your in the Cleveland and Gaston County, Kings Mountain, Shelby and Charlotte areas. Call Tim 661-312-6159 (661) 3126159 saveyourearth@live. com

WANT TO BUY. ATV’s, PopUp Campers and Small Travel Trailers. Call 828-429-3935.

I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197

LAND WANTED, 10+ ACRES. In Blacksburg, SC. To build small home. Call (704) 576-7022

WE BUY Cars, Trucks, Vans. Running or not. Lost titles or have titles. We take over payments. 704-5243387.

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.

WANT TO BUY CARS, TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 6921006

FARM & GARDEN

FARM & GARDEN

FESCUE HORSE HAY FOR SALE 4X5 Round - $70, Square - $8. 704-692-6325. AGED CHIPPER MULCH. Great for gardens or flower beds. No chemicals. $10 a truck load if you load, $50 if I load. Grover area. 980-5987145 Ask for Robert. (980) 598-7145

BOATS 2018 BASS TRACKER 40TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION. 40HP 4 stroke Mercury engine. Boat, motor, trailer only has 10 hours. Clean title. $12,500. Jimmy (704) 6928001

PETS

&

LIVESTOCK

VARIETY OF RESCUE PETS to be adopted. Ages vary. Call for info and price. (828) 391-0919

2 VALENTINE PUPPIES LEFT. Malti-Poo / Yorkie Cross. Male $800, Female $1000. Blonde, tails docked, dew claws removed, Toy Size. Shots & worming UTD, Vet checked. Inside raised. (828) 391-0919

12 WEEK OLD CHIHUAHUA PUPPY. $300. Pit bull puppies, 8 weeks old. $450 each. Call or text 704-974-8055 or 704-466-6983. CKC F1 LABRADOODLE PUPPIES. Litter born 12/19/2022. Will be ready to go to their new homes 2/13/2023! Reds, Black, and Blondes available with straight and curly coats! Will go home with full CKC registration eligibility, first shots, and dewormed. Price is $1500. Message for more information! (928) 315-3605 rpeoples1305@gmail.com

BOTTLE COLLECTION 1&2 LITRE Wood Cases, Clorox, Milk, Variety of Soda Drinks, Petty Pepsi, Plus Many More! $2,000 FIRM! Call (828) 2459620

ALMOST NEW 2020 KUBOTA TRACTOR MODEL -L4701. 4X4 - 118 hours, comes with Loader, buck w/ forks. R-4 tires, fiberglass top, wheel weights -6- Box Blade. Cost when new $37,000, asking $31,000. Barn Kept. Call between 12p-3pm. (704) 4724844 FREE AGED HORSE MANURE Aged horse manure. Great for gardens. (828) 4470652

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES 2 Males & 1 Female. 13 weeks old. Call or text for details (704) 418-9244 MARBLED TEAL DUCKS. Pair $75. 704-418-6454. AKC/CKC REGISTERED BOXER PUPPIES. Taking $200 deposits now. Total price $900. READY TO GO! 1st shots and deworming. 8wks old. 3/M 4/F Location: Shelby,NC (704) 477-3900 1/4 WOLF, 3/4 GERMAN SHEPHERD pups. Also pure German Shepherd pups. Parents on site. $350 each. 828-429-0053, 828-748-9238. Check our Facebook at Dysart Wolf & Sheperd

COUNCIL

From Page 1 council they had, in 2022, a total of 19,945 calls, most of which were security checks on businesses and residences (10,838).

“This was 1,300 more calls than we fielded in 2021,” he added. He noted their calls for fraud and forgeries had decreased and stood at 36 for 2022, with one call regarding a murder. Drug crimes, however, were the highest of the total 816 calls, with 130 reports logged. Chief Hunsucker acknowledged the number of arrests was down from 2021 (831) to just 429 because of the department being down two officers.

“I am pleased to report the total amount of drugs we have taken off the streets of Cherryville in 2022 amounts to 1,052.13 grams (37.5 ounces), with a street value of $108,670,” he said.

It was also noted to council the CPD was awarded a Bryne Discretionary Grant of $114,000 this past year through the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The grant, as Chief Hunsucker stated, “…will be used to repair the roof of the police department, along with some plumbing issues, at no cost to the city.” The Chief also said his telecommunications people were required by state standards to be state certified this year.

“This required all of them to take a weeklong training course and pass a state exam.”

Mayor Beam said of Chief Hunsucker, “He came in and started on a Monday and had a big drug bust. We are so proud to have you here.”

Councilman Malcolm Parker told Chief Hunsucker, “We are glad to

have you.”

Regarding that drug bust on his first week in Cherryville, Chief Hunsucker said, “We hope to see this trend continue.”

Finance Director Dixie Wall went over 20222023 budget amendments changes, all of which the council voted on and approved unanimously.

Planning and Zoning

Director Alex Blackburn spoke with council about property relinquishment of a total of 137.15 acres from the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction, or ETJ, to Gaston County for Piedmont Lithium on March 13, 2023.

Mr. Blackburn said the listed property owners have all agreed and are in favor of said relinquishment.

In the Citizen’s to be Heard section of the council meeting, a number of Cherryville citizens spoke about the Cherryville Historical Museum, voicing their concerns about the possible sale of the building and what might happen to the city’s museum.

Mayor Beam said before things got started, “We are not here tonight to make a decision on the Cherryville Historical Museum. If we do have multiple upset bids on the building it may be March or even April before any decision is made.”

Representing Vicki

Spurling Realty, Christy Ford read a letter to the council in which she referenced what has been spent so far on the Main Street Project, adding that any renovations are preservation-minded, noting how this makes new businesses excited about coming to Cherryville. She noted how a couple of clients have given hundreds of thousands of dollars to help with the preservation of not only the museum but other historic buildings on Main Street. She also noted how one of their clients has offered to the Cherryville Historic Society a building at 203 N. Mountain St., in

which to showcase the museum’s artifacts.

Mr. Tom Moss complimented the city on the beautiful work done on the downtown but noted that now it was time to work on the rest of the city, most specifically the water lines

In response to this, City Manager Brian Dalton said the engineering is completed for a new water line on Hwy. 150 heading west from Mountain Street.

“This project should be put out for bid for a new water line in the next few months,” he added.

Former Cherryville Mayor Wade Stroupe commented that there are indeed a number of issues going on with the museum, but also encouraged everyone interested in the CHM to “get interested in that history.”

He continued, talking about what might be the best economic use of the property itself, asking, “… would it be better to have a restaurant that is open six or seven days a week generating income rather than a museum that is only open for four hours on Saturday. I encourage the council to make the best decision possible for the building based on all of the information available to them.”

Mike Dellinger spoke next, saying he was “… seeing too many eggs in one basket” regarding what is to be done with the CHM building and the exhibits. He referenced not enough security for the museum as well them needing a bigger building possibly.

He told council he was seeing “…too much stuff going (possible buyer Mr. Patrick O’Leary’s) way,” adding, “There has got to be a break somewhere! I mean, why this building? That’s just too much power in one hand.”

He concluded, after a bit more discussion, that, “This one building (the CHM) needs to be kept sacred, in my opinion any

way. There’s just a lot of uncertainty about it.”

Cherryville Historic Association President Al Putnam brought a few exhibits from the museum for the council to see a bit of what is there. He noted to council the “building IS the museum”, adding, “The artifacts are part of the building and can’t be removed or taken.”

He talked about the names carved into the walls of the old jail, the museum’s five functions it had when it was built in 1911 (fire and police departments; jail; court room, and such), and basically

gave a history of the building to let council know just some of the reasons why it doesn’t need to be bought and turned into a business or something other than what it currently is today.

Mike Jones, told council he is “…deeply concerned with the direction our town is going. Cherryville is deeply ingrained with tradition. The museum is one of the last original buildings in the city.”

Mr. Jones talked about his concerns with the current CHM society, who he termed “a rogue group who have taken over the museum”, adding how “good

people have resigned because of the turmoil” in the ranks of the museum and its volunteers and members.

Jones said he wants to see the city “retain the building and get some authority over the museum.”

The mayor thanked everyone for speaking. City Manager Dalton then gave the presentation on the city’s finances then addressed the city’s paving issues which are scheduled to start soon.

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

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

TWO CHOCOLATE FEMALE LAB PUPS. AKC. Gentle/teachable. Parents on site. Champion bloodline. Vet checked. $250 deposit. Ready to go week of 2/18/23. 704-914-8241, KM.

BEAUTIFUL BLUE PITBULL PUPPIES. 7 weeks old. Males and females. Razor bloodline

$500. 803-222-6730.

CKC REG F1B LABRA-

DOODLE PUPPIES. Various shades of red color. 1st shots & dewormed. $500. (704) 473-4559

FREE FEMALE CHOCO-

LATE LAB. 1-1/2 year old female chocolate lab needs a good home. Call 704-7503318. TINY MERLE AND ASSORTED COLORS of Pomeranian puppies. Vet checked, shots & worming. Ready to go. 828744-6974.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

PETS & LIVESTOCK

TOY AND MINI AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS. Male and female, assorted colors, some blue-eyed. Shots, wormed, fully vetted. 828289-6756.

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. CKC Registered, shots & worming UTD. These are big healthy pups that will respond to training well and make good family protectors. $300 ea. (704) 466-3135

ADULT QUAIL $5 EACH. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Pre order Bob Whites. Hatching Eggs. Laying Hens Available. 704476-9943

AKC REGISTERED, PRE CHIPPED AKITA PUPS. Black & white, DOB 12/15/22. $1000 each. Looking for good homes. Available 1/25/23. (704) 678-3918

MINIATURE LONG HAIR DACHSHUND PUPPIES. Facebook.com/knockoutdoxies. $800-$1500. 828521-9904. Quality mini dachshund pups. Raised in our home with our family. Lots of boys. 2 girls available. (828) 521-9904 kourtneelacey@gmail.com

HONEYBEES FOR SALE 3 pound packages of honeybees $128 each. Includes queen. Payment at time of order. Pickup day is March 26th, in Mooresboro NC. Call or email to order. Cash, check, or PayPal. 704-4722917 mswaf100@gmail.com (704) 472-2917 mswaf100@ gmail.com

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. PURE BRED GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES SEEKING NEW HOMES. PARENTS ARE AKC REGISTERED (AND BEAUTIFUL) AND OUR FAMILY PETS. PUPPIES ARE 9 WEEKS OLD AND READY TO BE YOUR BEST FRIEND. $400 EITHER GENDER. LOCATED IN KINGS MOUNTAIN, 704-974-3296 SONJAT1@ YAHOO.COM

CARS & TRUCKS

C65 CHEVROLET DUMP TRUCK. 14’

Cherryville’s new Chief of Police, Brandon Hunsucker, speaking to the council at the Monday night, Feb. 13 meeting. photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Members of the crowd who came by the Monday night, Feb. 13 City Council meeting to listen to, and – for some – take part in the meeting itself.

CHS cheerleaders do well at NHSCC last week

Head cheer coach Wendy Holt said her ladies had a great showing at last week’s UCA-hosted National High School Cheerleading Championship.

Said Mrs. Holt, “We competed at the National High School Cheerleading Championship hosted by UCA in the Varsity Game Day D2 preliminary on Friday, Feb. 17, finishing six out of 18. That was high enough to advance to the semi-finals on Day 2 (Saturday). We finished 16th that day and only 12 of the original 49 advanced to finals.

“We increased our score from Day 1 to Day 2 after practicing for several hours between our performances. The competition season ended with our best Game Day performance of the season. And everyone was pleased, knowing they had left it all on the mat.”

Holt noted, “Typically CHS has been on a fouryear rotation, only attending this event once every four years, but we would like to possibly go again in two years.”

GOOD NEWS

From Page 3 awards at the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair: Kimberly Cruz, Alaina Lammie, and Reagan Beard, Stanley Middle, Duke Energy Middle School Division Winner; Raheem McClure, KenNaisha Patton, and Samya Evans, Stanley Middle, Junior Naval Science Award and first place in environmental science; Joy Barbee, Holbrook

Middle, first place in biological science; Ana Plavocos and Savannah McArn, Belmont

Middle, third place in chemistry; Naomi Wallace and Layla Lewis, Stanley Middle, second place in chemistry; Angel Teran, Stanley Middle, first place in chemistry; Brooklyn Stroupe, Stanley Middle, first place in physics; Aaron Ramey, Cramerton Middle School, first place in technology; Lizzy-Jane Ross, Stanley Middle, third palace in engineering; Ashaun Brown and David Lopez, Stanley Middle, second place in engineering; and Samantha Franke, Stanley Middle, first place in engineering. The following high school students earned awards at the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair: Lydia Walls, East Gaston High School, Duke Energy High School Division Winner; Camryn Tuttle, North Gaston High School, Gaston College SPARC of Genius Award; Logan Harris, Gaston

NCHSAA

From Page 7 classes in each of the Association’s four classifications and four team tournament champions crowned.

2023 NCHSAA Individual Wrestling State Tournament Results

1A Championship Finals

1A 152 lbs. – Tristan Adams (Avery County, 36-2) won by decision over Chase Miller (Cherryville, 42-6) (Dec 8-4)

1A Consolation Finals

1A 170 lbs. – 3rd Place

Match – Kam Bolin (Cherryville, 38-12) won by fall over Ramiro Gutierrez (Thomasville, 18-7) (Fall

3:00)

The CHS cheerleaders who competed at last week’s UCA-hosted National High School Cheerleading Championship are: Front: Abi Canipe, Faith McNeill, Camryn Cash, Avery Beam, Landyn McBride, Chloee Stroupe, Ava Miller, and Bailey Owens, and back: Kylie Reynolds, Lani Philbeck, Anna Leigh Jones, Sarah Eaker, Payton Godfrey, and Kendall Chupp. (photo provided)

Early College of Medical Sciences, Gaston College SPARC of Genius Honorable Mention; Dylan Grimes, Gaston Early College, Senior Naval Science Award; Hannah Rodden and Sariah Alege, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, third place in environmental sciences; Jordan Harris, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, second place in environmental sciences; James Gunter and Ansley Jones, Forestview High School, first place in environmental sciences; Zoey Adams and Jesmarie Gonzalez, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, third place in biological sciences; Shanyae Justice, Bubacarr Jatta, and Jasmine Sanders, Gaston Early College; second place in biological sciences; Destiny Eagle, Grace Almond, and Maria Salazar, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, first place in biological sciences; Logan Harris, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, third place in chemistry; Kendall Mace and Morgan Melton, Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, second place in chemistry; Kelly Smith, Stuart W. Cramer High School, first place in chemistry; Dylan Grimes, Gaston Early College, first place in physics; Camryn Tuttle, North Gaston High School, first place in technology; Dalton Scism and Cameron Browning, Gaston Early College, second place in engineering; and Mackenzie Hamrick, Gaston Early College of Medical Sci-

ences, first place in engineering.

The following middle schools won Gaston County Schools sports championships: boys’ soccer, Cramerton; volleyball, Mount Holly; and wrestling, Cramerton.

The following football players were recognized as all-state selections by Friday Nights in Carolina: Tobias Miller, Cherryville; Cam Medlock, South Point; Sullivan Absher, South Point; Will Ross, South Point; Charlie Birtwistle, South Point; Carmelo Bass, Ashbrook; Jackson Blee, South Point; Devon Jones, Ashbrook; Jaquis Rumph, South Point; Trenton Mitchell, Ashbrook; Aiden Ramirez, South Point; and Justin Ross, Hunter Huss.

The Bessemer City Middle School band performed holiday tunes for students at Bessemer City Primary.

To celebrate the success of students raising money for the United Way of Gaston County campaign, Brookside Elementary principal Jaime Wallace and assistant principal Joe Burns kissed a pig.

Dr. Don McGinnis donated several boxes of books to Carr Elementary’s classroom libraries.

The John Chavis Middle School Beta Club organized a successful canned food drive to benefit the Crisis Assistance Ministry. A total of 867 items were collected.

Cherryville High School se-

nior Rileigh Kiser was named to the all-state volleyball team by the North Carolina Volleyball Coaches Association.

Cherryville High School senior Carson Kelly scored his 1,000th point in basketball.

Stuart W. Cramer High School junior Rich Wills was named to the Tarheel Youth Golf Association and Carolina Golf Association all-state team.

East Gaston High School student Austin Price earned his 100th career win in wrestling.

Forestview High School junior Rennie Liu was named to the second all-state tennis team by HighSchoolOT. In addition, senior Christian Tyler was named to the all-state boys’ soccer team by the North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association.

Forestview High School sophomore Tylique Aldridge earned honorable mention on the all-state football team by the North Carolina Sportswriters Association.

W.C. Friday Middle School held a canned food drive to benefit the Dallas Christian Ministry.

Gaston Virtual Academy was selected to participate in the North Carolina Science Festival program sponsored by Duke Energy and was awarded STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) kits for 200 students.

The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at the Highland School of Technology received awards at the

1A 285 lbs. – 3rd Place

Match – Caleb Hovis (Cherryville, 35-23) won by fall over Jacob Teesateskie (Robbinsville, 15-10) (Fall 2:10)

2023 NCHSAA Individual Wrestling State Tournament Results

Southwest Regional FBLA Conference: Morgan Pursley, first place in the Accounting I category; Misha Singh, first place in the Future Business Leader category; Kent Kido, first place in the Introduction to Information Technology category; Maeve Jacobs and Khushi Pate, first place in the Theme and Web Banner category; and Adalberto Rodriguez-Cruz, first place in the Spreadsheet Applications category. Additionally, the 16 students who placed in the top four will compete in the FBLA state conference in March.

The following Highland School of Technology students competed in the Southwest Regional Leadership Conference at Johnson and Wales University: Hannah Gabiana, CPR/First Aid; Jackson Sawyer, CPR/First Aid; Neel Patel, Dental Science; Regis Lu, Dental Terminology; Kendall McPhatter, Health Career Display; Erica Tetteh Ocloo, Health Career Display; and Aileen Pena, Medical Assisting.

The Highland School of Technology HOSA club sponsored a blood drive on December 2 and collected 41 units. In addition, students and staff delivered holiday cheer by filling 113 Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes.

McAdenville Elementary kindergarten student Robert Sapp was chosen to “flip the switch” at the annual McAdenville tree lighting ceremony.

South Point High School student Sullivan Absher, who plans to play football for the University of Notre Dame, was one of 100 senior football players selected for the All-American Bowl. The game was televised nationally on

By JIM MILLER Editor

1A Consolation First Round

1A 132 lbs. – Robbie Bowman (Cherryville, 35-18) won by decision over Isaac Nelson (South Stokes, 29-19) (Dec 7-3)

1A 195 lbs. – David Hargro (Thomas Jefferson, 38-8) won by decision over Tobias Miller (Cherryville, 44-11) (Dec 6-1)

1A Consolation Semifinals

1A 132 lbs.

Cons. Semi – Gavin Mann (Bradford Prep, 32-4 won by decision over Robbie Bowman (Cherryville, 35-18 (Dec 13-6)

1A 170 lbs.

Cons. Semi – Kam Bolin (Cherryville, 38-12 won by decision over Traven Thompson (Mt. Airy, 14-10 (Dec 9-4)

1A 285 lbs.

Cons. Semi – Caleb Hovis (Cherryville, 35-23 won by fall over Daniel Silver (North East Carolina Prep School, 46-13 (Fall 1:54)

NBC on January 7 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. South Point High School senior Sullivan Absher was named to the all-state football team by the North Carolina Sportswriters Association. In addition, senior Will Ross was recognized as an honorable mention.

South Point High School senior Sullivan Absher was named to the all-state football team by HighSchoolOT.com. In addition, senior Will Ross was recognized as a second team honoree and Jackson Blee was recognized as an honorable mention.

The South Point High School Student Council sponsored a canned food drive in November. Students collected 2,315 cans for the Belmont Community Organization. Teacher Jennifer Risk is the student council adviser.

The South Point High School boys’ basketball team visited Belmont Central Elementary and read books to second and third grade students.

Stanley Middle School student Mackenzie Hart was selected as first chair oboe in the North Carolina All-State Band and qualified for the all-district symphonic band. In addition, Cyrus Baltimore qualified for the all-district symphonic band.

The Stanley Middle School eighth grade chorus, under the direction of Nyi Nyi Myin, performed “God Bless the USA” at the Charlotte Checkers hockey game on January 22. Students at York Chester Middle School received a new coat through the “Operation Warm” program. Members of the Gaston County Police Department assisted with fitting the students with a coat.

Retiring Abroad? Tips and tools to help you make an informed decision

Dear Savvy Senior,

What are the key factors to consider when contemplating retiring abroad? My husband and I will soon be retiring and are interested in moving abroad to a country that’s cheaper and warmer than the U.S. Looking Ahead

Dear Looking,

Whatever your reasons for aspiring to retire abroad – a lower cost of living, a better climate or a desire for adventure – you need to do your homework and learn everything you can about the country you’re interested in because it’s not an easy move. Here are some different tips and tools to help you make an informed decision.

Researching Tools

If you’re in the decision-making process of where to retire, InternationalLiving.com and LiveAndInvestOverseas.com are two excellent websites that provide articles, information and lists of the top retirement destinations abroad based on cost of living, climate, health care, housing, visas, infrastructure and more.

Once you pick a country or two that interest you, a smart move is to talk or network with some expats who have already made the move you’re thinking about making. They can give you tips and suggestions on many issues, as well as the advantages and disadvantages and day-to-day reality of living in a particular country. Facebook is a good resource for locating expat groups.

But before committing, experts recommend visiting multiple times during different seasons to see whether you can envision yourself living there and not just exploring the place as a tourist. Here are some other factors you need to look into.

Cost of living: Retiring abroad used to be seen as a surefire way to live beyond your means, and for many countries it still is. But depending on where you move, the U.S. dollar may not stretch as far as you think.

To compare the cost of living in hundreds of cities and countries use Numbeo.com.

Visa requirements: If you want to spend just part of the year living abroad or are willing to move from country to country, most countries offer a three or six-month tourist

visa, which is easy to get. But if you want to set up permanent residence abroad you might have to jump over a few more hurdles depending on where you want to retire. To research visa requirements in the countries that interest you, visit VisaGuide.World.

Health care: Most U.S. health insurance companies do not provide coverage outside the U.S., and neither does Medicare. Check with the embassy (see USembassy.gov) of your destination country to see how you can be covered as a foreign resident.

Many countries provide government-sponsored health care that’s inexpensive, accessible and just as good as what you get in the states, or you may want to buy a policy through Medibroker.com or BupaGlobal. com.

Also know that most people who retire abroad eventually return to the U.S., so experts recommend paying your Medicare Part B premiums. If you drop and resume Part B, or delay initial enrollment, you’ll pay a 10 percent premium penalty for every 12-month period you weren’t enrolled.

Housing: Buying a home in a foreign country can be complicated, so it’s almost always better to rent first until you’re sure you want to permanently reside there.

Money matters: Opening or maintaining a bank account abroad can also be difficult. You may have to establish a checking account with an institution that has international reach like Citibank or maintain a U.S. bank account that you can access online. Claiming your Social Security benefits, however, should not be a problem as they offer direct deposit to almost every country in the world. See SSA.gov/international/ payments.html.

Taxes: You also need to research tax rules in your prospective countries and be aware that even if you’re living in another country, as a U.S. citizen you’ll still most likely need to file an annual U.S. tax return – see IRS.gov/ pub/irs-pdf/p54.pdf.

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.