Cherryville Eagle 5-10-23

Cherryville Chamber hosts 2023 Annual Meeting at CG&CC

Smaller crowd comes out for this year’s event, but a great time was had by all!

by MICHAEL E. POWELL

Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Not much can shut down or slow the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Dinner though COVID surely tried. So, it was great to see Cherryville’s business leaders and movers and shakers get together with Chamber and City staff to talk about how 2022 went.

By all appearances, it seems to have gone famously, at least according to the Chamber Board President Pete Craft and the various speakers who took the podium Thursday night, May 4 at the large dining room at the Cherryville Golf and Country Club.

Craft opened things up with his customary humor,

welcoming all to another Chamber event. The crowd this year appeared to be smaller this year than usual, and that fact was not lost on those in attendance, some of whom noting such to one another at their tables. That said, a good time was still

North Carolina Supreme Court restores voter ID

Reverses redistricting ruling; also ends felon voting

by CAROLINA JOURNAL STAFF

In a trio of opinions totaling 436 pages, the N.C. Supreme Court has restored North Carolina’s voter ID law, ruled recently that state courts cannot consider partisan gerrymandering claims, and ended voting for felons who have not completed their sentences.

Each ruling issued Friday divided the court, 5-2. Republican justices supported the majority opinions. Democratic justices dissented.

Voter ID

In Holmes v. Moore, the voter ID case, the state’s highest court reversed a Dec. 16, 2022 ruling from the outgoing Supreme Court, which then had a 4-3 Democratic majority. That court had affirmed a trial court’s decision to throw out the 2018 voter identification law as racially discriminatory.

Voters replaced two Democratic justices with Republicans last November, a little more than a month before the state Supreme Court’s voter ID decision. Those new justices took office Jan. 1. The new court granted a rehearing of the case in March.

The new decision reverses that decision. “There is no legal recourse available for vindication of political interests, but this Court is yet again confronted with ‘a partisan See VOTER ID, Page 2

Saturday, May 13th • 9:00 am

had by all and the Chamber recognized the Member of the Year; Business of the Year; and Citizen of the Year.

Prior to that Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III spoke about how excited he was to be there, along with City

staff members and some Council members.

“I want to say 'thank you’ to the Chamber staff for all that you do” to get the event together, said Mayor Beam.

Mr. Craft gave the invocation, then Chamber Director and Events Coor-

dinator Mary Beth Tackett proceeded to introduce the new committees and gave a review of how 2022 went for the Chamber.

“We had many ribbon cuttings and were pleased to open the newly redone Belk Building on Main Street. We are also pleased to say we have partnered and are still partnering with our

Cherryville schools to let the students and the teachers and school staff’s know what we are doing and asking what we can do for them in the future,” said Mrs. Tackett.

She also mentioned the success of the 2022 Independence Day Celebration, held in Rudisill Stadium, See MEETING, Page 4

Cherryville Family “Y” says 5K; Bubble Run event a great success

Spring is a great time to get outside and run!

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Associate Executive Director of the Pharr Family YMCA and Cherryville Family YMCA, Josey Messer, said their April 5K and Bubble Run was a great success.

And, as the YMCA noted on their web site when recruiting runners for the event, “It’s spring and a great time to get outside.” YMCA race organizers noted also they “…are excited to get back together and challenge (folks) to run or walk through the rolling hills of Cherryville.

The race began and ended, as it has now for the past few years pre- and now, post-COVID, at Cherryville’s First Presbyterian Church, which is located on the corner of Academy and Mountain Street. It then headed northeast, noted Mr. Messer, towards Cherryville Elementary School. After the race he said everyone celebrated “together at the finish line with music and snacks!”

The Saturday, April 29 1-Mile Bubble Run started at 9 a.m., and the 5K Walk/ Run began immediately

4:00 pm

afterwards at 10 a.m., said Messer. As the race has always

been, it was again advertised as a “Dog-friendly event” with all dogs, big or

small, welcome to run with their masters, so Messer See RUN, Page 2

The winners of the three Cherryville Chamber of Commerce awards at the Thursday, May 5, Annual Dinner held at the Cherryville Golf and Country Club. Left to right are: Donna Beringer (Carolina Federal Credit Union) – 2022 Chamber Member of the Year; Kevin Wilson (Cherryville YMCA) – 2022 Business of the Year; and Kim Eaker – 2022 Citizen of the Year. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

event.

Eleven of the Cherryville 5K medalists take a minute to pose for a group photo at the YMCA 5K finish line.

These NC voting booths await future elections.

(photo by Creative Commons)

early on for all who wished to do so, to bring their pup in order to let them get in on the exercise and fun. There was a caveat though, he added, as all dogs must be kept on a fixed-length leash. The good news for the racing pooches was the first dog to cross the finish line received a Top Dog tag.

Fees for the 5K participants were $25 with the Bubble Run participants fees being $15. The race was sponsored by Piedmont Lithium

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

4-28: Lindsey Nicole Brewer, 23, 203 Spinners Dr., Cherryville; one count felony possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and one count misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. $5,000 unsecured bond.

4-28: Daniel Wayne Knighten, 48, 216 Putnam St., Cherryville; one count felony possession of methamphetamine. $1,000 secured bond.

4-28: Steven Christopher Mince, 43, 155 Harbor Cove Ln., Mooresville; WSOJ (Cleveland County).

4-29: Thomas Michael Gregory Rivera, 34, 233 Delview Dr., Cherryville; one count felony possession of methamphetamine; and two counts misdemeanor simple possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. $5,000 unsecured bond.

4-29: Zachary Evans Mosteller, 25, 703 Maple St., Cherryville; one count felony WSOJ for OFA/felony larceny (Cabarrus County). $10,000 secured bond.

5-1: Terry Eugene Nolen, 34, 1313 Black Rd., Cherryville, was arrested at this same address by GCPD officers on three counts of an OFA (contempt of court/perjury/court violation).

INCIDENTS

4-28: CPD officer reports possession of Schedule II controlled substance; posses-

“We had 72 runners, and around eight dogs, and raised $4,000 dollars for our Cherryville YMCA,” said Josey.

“The money goes towards our annual campaign, supporting youth programs, our Live Strong Program for cancer survivors, and it also helps those who could not be a part of our family without some help.”

Messer continued, “We had a super time and everyone had fun. You could not have asked for better

VOTER ID

Messer concluded by saying, “I cannot thank Cherryville enough for showing up Saturday with volunteers and runners.”

If you wish to know more about the Cherryville YMCA or how to join, there is a standing invitation to come by and see their new building and talk with either Messer or one of the “Y” staffers who are there and are very helpful. You can also call them at (704) 445-9622.

From Page 1 legislative disagreement that has spilled out . . . into the courts.’ This Court once again stands as a bulwark against that spillover, so that even in the most divisive cases, we reassure the public that our state’s courts follow the law, not the political winds of the day,” wrote Justice Phil Berger Jr. for the majority.

The General Assembly enacted the voter ID law, originally Senate Bill 824, just weeks after voters decided in November 2018 to place an ID requirement in the state constitution.

principle of equality under the law,” Berger added. “We recommit to that fundamental principle and begin the process of returning the judiciary to its rightful place as ‘the least dangerous’ branch.”

“Plaintiffs here have failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that S.B. 824 was enacted with discriminatory intent or that the law actually produces a meaningful disparate impact along racial lines.”

the text. Those limitations do not address partisan gerrymandering,” wrote Chief Justice Paul Newby. “It is not within the authority of this Court to amend the constitution to create such limitations on a responsibility that is textually assigned to another branch.”

sion of drug paraphernalia and call for service on listed suspects who possessed narcotics and firearms. Seized: 0.01 grams of Fentanyl, 172 grams of methamphetamine, and 46 grams of marijuana. Also seized were numerous firearms and bullets, $1,454 in cash, and other drug-related materials, as well as personal items. Case is active and under further investigation.

4-28: CPD officer reports possession of methamphetamine by listed suspect who possessed narcotics. Seized: 0.20 grams of methamphetamine. Closed/cleared by arrest.

4-28: CPD officer reports WSOJ on listed subject who had an outstanding OFA. Closed/cleared by arrest.

4-29: CPD officer reports possession of methamphetamine; simple possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia by listed suspect who possessed narcotics and paraphernalia. Seized: 0.40 grams of methamphetamine; one dosage unit of Alprazolam; some baggies; broken glass pipe; and pen tube w/residue. Closed/cleared by arrest.

4-29: CPD officer conducted a traffic stop and reports a WSOJ/Cabarrus County on listed suspect. Closed by arrest.

5-1: GCPD officers report closing/clearing by arrest a misdemeanor drug/ narcotic violation at S. Pink St., and S. Chavis Dr., Cher-

ryville.

5-2: GCPD officers report further investigation into larceny/other at 2543 Lincolnton Hwy., Cherryville.

WRECKS

4-27: A vehicle driven by Janie Thomas Bateson, 47, 1208 Tot Dellinger Rd., Cherryville, and a vehicle driven by Emmanuel Campos, 24, 131 C Glen Gar Dr., Lincolnton, collided at a gas pump at a business parking lot at 2503 Lincolnton Hwy., Cherryville. The Campos vehicle was stationary at the time the collision occurred. None to minor damages reported on both vehicles. No injuries reported.

4-28: A vehicle driven by Madison Faith Avery, 18, 130 Wesley Ct., Crouse, and a vehicle driven by Lorena Louise Powell, 38, 200 Putnam St., Cherryville, collided in an unnamed E. Church St., parking lot in Cherryville. Minor damages to both vehicles reported. No injuries reported.

4-29: A vehicle driven by Melinda Sain Williams, 55, 4761 Lama Ln., Lincolnton, and a vehicle driven by Martin Charles Bass, 72, 3402 Hwy. 274, Cherryville, collided at Bud Back Rd. and Lincolnton Hwy. No injuries reported. Minor damages reported to both vehicles. The Bass vehicle was stopped at the intersection when the Williams vehicle made contact with the rear of the Bass vehicle.

“It is well settled that the proper exercise of judicial power requires great deference to acts of the General Assembly, as the legislature’s enactment of the law is the sacrosanct fulfillment of the people’s will,” Berger wrote. “With that basic principle in mind, we are confronted here with a simple question: does S.B. 824 violate the meaningful protections set forth in Article I, Section 19 of the North Carolina Constitution? Because it does not, we reverse and remand to the trial court for dismissal of this action with prejudice.”

Dismissal “with prejudice” means the ruling is final. The Supreme Court used the same language in all three election-related cases decided Friday.

Voter ID opponents cannot re-file the suit. This could mean voter ID would return for the next round of elections. A federal lawsuit challenging the same voter ID law remains active. No action has taken place in the case since July 2022.

“The people of North Carolina overwhelmingly support voter identification and other efforts to promote greater integrity and confidence in our elections,” Berger wrote. “Subjective tests and judicial sleight of hand have systematically thwarted the will of the people and the intent of the legislature. But no court exists for the vindication of political interests, and judges exceed constitutional boundaries when they act as a super-legislature.”

“This Court has traditionally stood against the waves of partisan rulings in favor of the fundamental

Writing for the two Democrats on the court, Justice Michael Morgan accused Republican colleagues of playing politics with their ruling. He complained about their “identical politically saturated legal philosophies.”

“[T]he five justices which constitute the majority here have emboldened themselves to infuse partisan politics brazenly into the outcome of the present case,” Morgan wrote. “This majority’s extraordinarily rare allowance of a petition for rehearing in this case, mere weeks after this newly minted majority was positioned on this Court and mere months after this case was already decided by a previous composition of members of this Court, spoke volumes.”

“My consternation with the majority’s abrupt departure from this Court’s institutionalized stature – historically grounded in this forum’s own reverence for its case law precedent, its deference to the rule of law, and its severance from partisan politics – is colossal,” Morgan added.

Redistricting

In Harper v. Hall, the new 5-2 opinion rejected the old Democrat-majority court’s previous decisions throwing out Republican-drawn election maps for congressional and legislative races. The new majority decided that state courts will no longer hear lawsuits challenging election maps because of claims of excessive partisanship.

As with the voter ID case, this decision followed a March rehearing of a case decided by the outgoing court in December 2022.

“Our constitution expressly assigns the redistricting authority to the General Assembly subject to explicit limitations in

“Furthermore, were this Court to create such a limitation, there is no judicially discoverable or manageable standard for adjudicating such claims,” Newby added. “The constitution does not require or permit a standard known only to four justices. Finally, creating partisan redistricting standards is rife with policy decisions. Policy decisions belong to the legislative branch, not the judiciary.”

Newby pointed to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2019 decision in Rucho v. Common Cause. In that case, the nation’s highest court decided that federal courts would no longer consider partisan gerrymandering cases.

“Recently, the Supreme Court of the United States reviewed similar claims under the Federal Constitution and determined that ‘excessive’ partisan gerrymandering claims involve nonjusticiable, political questions,” Newby wrote. “We find the Supreme Court’s analysis in Rucho insightful and persuasive. For all these reasons, we hold that partisan gerrymandering claims present a political question that is nonjusticiable under the North Carolina Constitution.”

Justice Anita Earls wrote for the dissenting Democrats. “When the General Assembly attempted to enact a new extreme partisan gerrymander … following the release of 2020 census data, this Court rejected the idea that the voters of this state must be hostage to the partisan objectives of the ruling party in the General Assembly,” Earls wrote. “And for a brief window in time, the power of deciding who is elected to office was given to the people, as required by the state constitution.”

“Today, the majority strips the people of this right; it tells North Carolinians that the state constitution and the courts cannot See VOTER ID 2, Page 9

And they’re off! Heading into a bevy of bubbles is great fun by anybody’s estimation, especially when it’s for a good cause – getting healthy!

This trio of pooches look like they’re some serious runners! And they don’t even look winded!

The Cherryville YMCA 5K race gets into full gear here in this photo as the runners appear to be giving it all they got to finish up. (photos provided)

Teen driver law changes

ROCKY MOUNT –

Upon passage of a bill by the North Carolina General Assembly, the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles is announcing changes to the graduated driver licensing (GDL) program for teens.

Effective May 8, teen drivers will again need to have their Level 1 Limited Learner Permit for six months before being able to get their Level 2 Limited Provisional License. Teen drivers will still be required to: be at least 16 years old, log 60 hours of driving time, pass a road test and show printed proof of insurance in the teen driver’s name.

The requirement to advance to Level 2 had been 12 months for most of the last 25 years since the GDL system was put into place in 1997. During the COVID-19 pandemic,

the legislature temporarily shortened this requirement to six months. That provision lapsed at the end of 2022, leaving thousands of teen drivers and their families in limbo.

“Now that this requirement has been changed back to six months, we look forward to helping these teen drivers through this process,” said DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin. “We ask for your patience as we work to accommodate the thousands of teen drivers that are suddenly eligible to take a road test and receive their Level 2 provisional license.”

According to the new legislation, this six-month provision will again lapse at the end of the year. Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, the provision will permanently change to nine months.

Another change to the

GDL system will allow Level 2 permit holders to be able to drive one passenger under 21 that is not a family member, if they are being driven directly to or from school. This is in addition to the existing provision allowing one passenger under 21 that is a family member.

As a reminder, NCDMV schedule changes went into effect on May 1. After noon, all customer services statewide are now provided on a walk-in basis. Appointments are only available in the morning through the 11 a.m. hour and can be booked at skiptheline. ncdot.gov.

Road tests, which a teen driver must successfully pass to achieve a Level 2 permit, are not available after 4 p.m.

Local Girl Scout Camps offering 2023 Summer Programs for all girls

GREENSBORO, NC – Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont (GSCP2P) is gearing up for summer, and registration for their 2023 summer camp programming is now open! With a variety of overnight camp, day camp and horse camp options, it’s a great opportunity for girls to embark on a summer of adventure. Summer camp sessions are open to all girls in grades 1-12, and it is not required to be a current Girl Scout to attend and have an amazing summer experience. Programs will be running at camp

properties in both Lenoir (Camp Ginger Cascades) and Sophia, NC (Keyauwee Program Center) and range from weeklong to half-week sessions.

The full 2023 camp book and registration information can be found at https://www.girlscoutsp2p.org/en/camp/summer-camp-opportunities. html.

Additional financial assistance is also available to families who want to send their girl to camp, but have financial limitations.

“Each of the camp properties and programs pro-

vide unique experiences for our campers,” said CEO of GSCP2P, Jennifer Wilcox. “Along with classic camp activities like swimming, boating and S’mores around the campfire, having the chance to go to camp gives girls the courage to try new things, confidence in being who she is and instills a love for being outside.”

Questions about specific programs, scholarship information and registration can be directed to info@ girlscoutsp2p.org, or by calling 1-800-672-2148.

The W.B. Beam Intermediate Falcon Radio Club (N2FRC) placed first nationwide at the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) School Club Roundup. During the contest, the school scored 41,307 points with 281 contacts from all over the world. There were a total of 33 states, seven countries, and three Canadian provinces represented in the competition. School counselor Mark Reep (right) is the Falcon Radio Club adviser.

(photo by Gaston County Schools)

The East Division winners in the Math Masters competition were Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, first place; Rankin Elementary, second place; Pleasant Ridge Elementary, third place; and New Hope Elementary, fourth place. The West Division winners were Gardner Park Elementary, first place; W.Blaine Beam Intermediate, second place; Catawba Heights Elementary, third place; and Woodhill Elementary, fourth place. (photo provided by Gaston County Schools)

Vicki Spurling, of Spurling Realty, introduces

night, May 4. They were there to accept the Chamber’s 2022 Business

MEETING

From Page 1 the Little Monster’s March (during Halloween) as well as bringing in $25,000plus in sponsorships for the Chamber’s various events in 2022.

“We have had many volunteers who have put in many hundreds of hours in time helping Chamber programs and events be a success and I just want to say thank you all for your contributions!” she said.

Tackett introduced Alex Fraser of Cox Automotive, located in Georgia, who briefly spoke on that company’s acquisition of Cherryville business, FleetNet America. Cox purchased FNA for a little over $100 million early this year, according to various automotive business web sites, adding it to their growing list of businesses that deal with automotive issues. Fraser noted the opportunity to partner with the Cherryville trucking support firm and jumped at the chance because, as he noted, “We connect people with problems to those who can solve them.”

Chamber chairman Craft then gave a brief look

forward to 2023, adding he hopes the year will be as great and fruitful as 2022 had been, praying that all businesses continue to bounce back from the pandemic.

“It is really good to see all of those in Cherryville’s business community work together like a team. It’s good to see the Chamber’s members work together like a team. I appreciate all of you, and as always, we ask you to support your local businesses,” he said.

After the dinner catered by CG&CC, it was time for the awards presentations.

Allison Brewer introduced the 2022 Chamber Member of the Year, Carolina Federal Credit Union’s President, Donna Beringer. The award was sponsored by Scooter’s Coffee.

Said Beringer before accepting her plaque, “It has been my honor to serve. I am honored to be on the Chamber.”

The Business of the Year award winner was introduced by Mrs. Vickie Spurling, and it was the Cherryville Family YMCA.

The award was sponsored by FleetNet America. Accepting for the YMCA was CEO, Sharon Padgett, who said, “Thank you for letting us do what we do! We are all about community, so a

big thank you to the City of Cherryville! I also want to thank the Chamber. It’s all about the relationships we have.”

The final award for the night – Citizen of the Year – was introduced by Cherryville Downtown Director and Main Street Program Director, David Day. He called up Mrs. Kim Eaker, who is the recipient of the award.

Mrs. Eaker said, “I am honored to receive this award; thank you so much!” She spoke about the One Body, One Mission ministry, which began, she said, 13 years ago in order to make sure no students went hungry on weekends, or went without school supplies.

“We gave out 150 book bags, 120 bags of food, and 100 gallons of milk, and do this every month,” said Mrs. Eaker.

Chamber Board member and Events Committee member Hannah Garrett (Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services) led the Memorial for Gary G. “Rocky” Bennett, who was an inspiration to many in Cherryville and beyond.

Rocky passed away on Oct. 10, 2022, she noted, as asked for a moment of silence to remember him.

Garrett spoke of

Rocky’s love of baseball; of his being the head coach of the Cherries (19841996); being the American Legion Area IV Commissioner; the Post 100 Athletic Director; of his admittance into the 2007 American Legion Hall of Fame; the Cherryville Sports Hall of Fame; the Traveling Tourism Committee of Gaston County; as well as being a Rotary Club member.

“Rocky always tried to be present for his kids and grandkids events. He was a Duke fan and loved his family deeply,” said Mrs.

Garrett. “To Lynn, the kids and the family, he is greatly missed.”

Events Chairman Gary Dellinger gave his always popular and humorous remarks, this time as things were coming to a close. He read from a list of “proposed” new businesses and festivals supposedly

coming to Cherryville in 2023, many of which were clearly bogus… or are they, he asked the crowd. Such will remain to be seen as 2023 moves forward. Chairman Craft closed the meeting and another Chamber Annual meeting went into the books, as they say!

(photos by MEP/

the Cherryville Family YMCA staff at the Chamber Annual awards Thursday

of the Year award.

Gaston County CEO Sharon Padgett thanks the Chamber for awarding the Cherryville Family Y their 2022 Business of

Gary Dellinger, Chamber Events Chairman, in the midst of giving his humorous listing of “proposed” new Cherryville festivals and events to the crowd.

Come home – come home and worship!

Over several decades now, many folks have decided to leave the church body. While I agree the church is far from perfect, life is complicated, and there are growing options of things to do on a Sunday morning. I do not agree church is unimportant or just something to do. If you’re a child of God, church is not something you go to. It’s something you are. You can’t isolate from the church as a Christian any more than you can isolate from humanity as a person. You don’t go to church. You

are the church! I understand the idea of the church being imperfect makes some people disappointed, but the fact Jesus started the church with imperfect people should give us cause to be amazed at God’s incredible Grace. The fact God chose to use ordinary, broken human beings as vessels of His grace is amazing. He had other options, but He chose to use broken people to proclaim His grace and mercy to a world in need of redemption. For sure, community is messy; we all fall short of the glory of God daily and we find ourselves living in sin. The fact Christ uses flawed people to complete His work on earth is a sign of His grace and mercy, not a sign of His absence.

Get rid of it

As we go from day to day, there are many concerns that we have. These concerns can turn into worry, fear, and anxiety, especially when we don’t know what to do about a difficult situation.

Worrying is mental distress and agitation which occurs when we allow allowing our minds to dwell on trouble or something anticipated as trouble. When stressful situations dominate our thoughts and consume our minds with images of unfavorable outcomes, this is also known as anxiety, uneasiness, or fretting. This distress doesn’t offer anything beneficial to our lives. On the contrary, it breeds negativity and can be detrimental to our health, causing migraine headaches, insomnia, depression, strokes, and other issues.

Worrying is a choice!

In Matthew 6:34, Jesus says, “take therefore no thought for tomorrow”. Another translation simply states, “don’t worry about tomorrow.” In other words, make a decision to reject the need to dwell on issues out of your control. There is a better way to deal with our worries. I Peter 5:7 (NLT) says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” How many times do we pray about something, or attend church and feel better, only to pick up that burden again instead of leaving it on the altar? God is inviting us and commanding us to get rid of it! He will not force us to let go of our burdens - it’s our choice! We have to be determined not to entertain anxious thoughts. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Ways to Deal with Worry

Utilizing a variety of coping methods can assist us in weathering our personal storms. Alternatives to worry are exercising, listening to uplifting music, talking to someone about personal fears, or brainstorming positive outcomes to the situation. Distracting the thoughts with scripture and declaring its promises produces strength and peace. II Corinthians 10:4-5 (ESV) “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

PRAY THIS PRAYER: “Father, I love you. It is an honor to rest in your Presence. Thank you that I can cast all of my worries on you because you care for me. From the end of the earth I call to you. When my heart is faint, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. You have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy. I choose today to let go of my worries and give them to you. You can handle anything. I wasn’t created to carry such a heavy load. I receive your invitation for peace. Thank you for being the Prince of Peace. In Jesus’ name - 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.

The church’s story, as twisted as it gets at times, is a beautiful story of God’s grace, God’s power, and God’s redemption. Disconnecting yourself from church is less faithful than connecting yourself to a flawed community of believers. The only one who wants us to believe we are better off alone is our enemy, satan. Almost all of us who follow Jesus have had our lives changed by a flawed body called the church whom Jesus so passionately loves and calls His own. Do we need more humble, authentic churches? Yes, we do. Does the church need to change? Without a doubt, you and I need constant restoration and change daily. However, the gospel message and truths of Jesus Christ should never be changed. Hopefully, we can

gather more frequently and work through our differences at a deeper level and impact our communities more powerfully while drawing those who have left the church body back into worship with us. We need each other working together humbly under Christ to lead people into a growing relationship with Him. We need to collectively proclaim the gospel truth that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life, that NO one can come to the Father except through Him. The church body is not dead, because Jesus Christ is alive – alive within His people! My prayer is that folks in our community will see Jesus working in and though us and be drawn back to the house of the Lord, so we can worship together once again. I invite you to come home! Come home and worship with us!

First Presbyterian Red Cross Blood Drive is May 4

The American Red Cross will be at First Presbyterian Church, 107 W. Academy St., Cherryville on May 4, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., A

$10 gift card will be given to all who give. COME GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE! You can register online at redcrossblood.org.

CHS 1968 55th reunion May 20

The 55th Year High School Reunion for CHS, Class of 1968 and friends will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 6 to 6:30 p.m. (Social Time), with dinner at 6:30 to 7 p.m., at the American Legion Post, 215 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021. The cost is $25 per person.

Please send money to confirm attendance by May 1, 2023. Make checks payable to: CHS Class of 1968, and mail to: Libby Brackett, 108 S. Rudisill St., Cherryville, NC, 28021. For questions, please call Mr. Glenn Burgess at (704) 435-5278, or Mrs. Libby Brackett at (704) 435-3368.

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.

Pastor – Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cherryville

DANYALE PATTERSON

SNAKES

From Page 3 many ways to coexist with snakes, which is important because of 38 of North Carolina’s native snake species, ten are listed endangered, threatened or of special concern.”

Of the six native venomous snake species, three are rattlesnakes –the timber, the pigmy and the Eastern diamondback. Each one is in decline, due mainly to persecution by humans and habitat destruction, and protected by the North Carolina Endangered Species Act.

One example of a native threatened, nonvenomous snake species is the Northern pine snake. Agency biologists want to know more about the distribution of the pine snake and request the public report any sightings. It ranges between 4 and 5 feet long but can get as large as 7 ½ feet and has

a white or tan background color with dark brown or black markings that begin as solid coloring or messy blotches near the head before gradually becoming distinct saddle-like blotches toward the tail. They prefer open areas within pine-oak forests with well-drained, sandy soil and are mostly found in the Sandhills and the southern Coastal Plain, although there are confirmed reports of pine snakes in Cherokee and Swain counties.

“Public assistance in recording and documenting the pine snake will be a huge help, because it’s difficult to conserve a species when we don’t know all the places it occurs,” said Mike Martin, wildlife technician with the Wildlife Commission. “We are partnering with several organizations and agencies to conduct surveys in the areas where pine snakes have either been seen or areas with potentially

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON NOTICE OF EXECUTOR

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Lorine Williams Cathey deceased, late of Gaston County, hereby notifies all persons having claims against this estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 13th of August, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to this estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 10th day of May, 2023.

Harry Vernon Cathey, Jr., Executor

Penelope Cathey, Executor

Estate of Lorine Williams Cathey

c/o John H. Griffing

Griffing Leazer, PLLC

Attorneys for Estate

518 S. New Hope Road

Gastonia, NC 28054

CE (5/10, 17, 24 & 31/2023)

PUBLIC NOTICE SALE OF CITY PROPERTY

An offer of $150,000, followed by an upset bid in the amount of $300,000, along with a commitment to offer the current tenant an alternative location within the Cherryville Downtown District, has been submitted for the purchase of certain property owned by the City of Cherryville, more particularly described as follows:

Lot and building located on the north side of East Main Street, commonly known as 109 East Main Street, Cherryville NC 28021. The legal description is as follows: Located, lying, and being in the City of Cherryville, Cherryville Township, Gaston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

BEGINNING at a stake, corner of Rudisill and Aderholdt Store Building on the north side of East Main Street, and runs thence N 20 W 193 feet through the center of Rudisill and Aderholdt’s east wall of their two-story brick store building to a stake in the center of S.A.L. Railroad; thence with said railroad N 70 E 28 feet and 9 inches to a stake, a new corner; thence S 20 E 193 feet to a stake on Main Street; thence with said street S 70 W 28-3/4 feet to the center of north wall of Rudisill and Aderholdt’s Store Building, the BEGINNING

For title reference see Book 1826 at Page 345 of the Gaston County Registry.

Being the full contents of PID 129695 in the Gaston County Tax Office.

Persons wishing to upset the offer that has been received shall submit a sealed bid with their offer to the office of the City Clerk, at City Hall, 116 S. Mountain Street Cherryville, N.C. 28021 by 5:00 P.M., May 22, 2023. At that time, the City Clerk shall open the bids, if any, and the highest qualifying bid will become the new offer. If there is more than one bid in the highest amount, the first such bid received will become the new offer.

A qualifying higher bid is one that raises the existing offer to an amount not less than $315,050. Said bid must also agree to the same commitment to offer the current tenant an alternative location within the Cherryville Downtown District.

A qualifying higher bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid; the deposit may be made in cash, cashier’s check, or certified check. The City will return the deposit on any bid not accepted, and will return the deposit on an offer subject to upset if a qualifying higher bid is received. The City will return the deposit of the final high bidder at closing or apply said deposit towards the purchase price.

The buyer must pay cash at closing.

The City Council must consider approval of the final high offer before the sale is closed, which it will do within 30 days after the final upset bid period has passed. The city reserves the right to withdraw the property from sale at any time before the final high bid is accepted and the right to reject at any time all bids.

Further information may be obtained at the office of the city clerk, City Hall, 116 S. Mountain Street, Cherryville, N.C. 28021 or at telephone 704-435-1709 during normal business hours.

CE (5/10/2023)

good habitat.” Sightings of these snakes in the wild can be reported in one of two ways, via a mobile app or by email. The agency partners with the HerpMapper mobile app to track amphibian and reptile species. Download the app to your mobile device or tablet and enter information about your sighting. If reporting by email send a photo (required), the date and time the

snake was observed and location (GPS coordinates preferred) to pinesnake@ ncwildlife.org for Northern pine snakes and to rattlesnake@ncwildlife.org for rattlesnakes. Most snakes will leave people alone if they aren’t bothered and are provided an escape route. Effective habits for safely co-existing with snakes include watching for snakes and giving them a wide berth. If you see a snake in your

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 21st of December, 2022 as Administratrix-CTA of the Estate of ROBERT EMERY DAVIS, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Yvonne Eve Evans, as Administratrix-CTA on or before the 19th of July, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 19th day of April, 2023.

Yvonne Eve Evans, Administratrix-CTA

Estate of Robert Emery Davis 1035 Davis Springs Road Bessemer City, NC 28016

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW PO Box 165 Shelby, NC 28151

CE (4/19, 26, 5/03 &10/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

In the Matter of the Estate of:

BILLY D. PARKER aka BILLY DAVIS PARKER, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 19th day of April, 2023 as Administratrix CTA of the Estate of Billy D. Parker aka Billy David Parker, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administratrix CTA on or before the 5th day of August, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 3rd day of May, 2023.

Joyce Bundy, Admin CTA 819 Dallas/Bessemer City Highway Dallas, NC 28034

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

CE (5/3, 5/10, 5/17 & 5/24/2023)

yard and would prefer it to reside elsewhere, you can safely encourage it to leave by gently spraying it with a garden hose. To make your yard less hospitable for snakes clean up clutter such as stick and rock piles, keep your lawn mowed, close gaps and holes in your siding and foundation, and seal openings under doors, windows and around waterpipes.

Keep in mind that some species have sim-

ilar patterns to Northern pine snakes, especially juvenile rat snakes and racers. For help with identifying snake species visit HerpsofNC.org. Questions about human-wildlife interactions can be directed to the agency’s NC Wildlife Helpline, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., at 1-866-3182401, or by email, HWI@ ncwildlife.org.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

In the Matter of the Estate of: ALVIN LARRY WOODALL, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 30th day of March, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Alvin Larry Woodall, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 21st day of July, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 19th day of April, 2023.

Joseph Woodall, Ex. P.O. Box 1861 Etowah, NC 28729

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086 CE (4/19, 4/26, 5/3 & 5/10/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF JERRY WAYNE PALMER

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Jerry Wayne Palmer, 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 26th day of July, 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 26th day of April, 2023.

Wilma June Palmer

Executrix Counsel for the Estate:

PALMER E. HUFFSTETLER, JR.

ATTORNEY AT LAW 106 North Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 28021

Telephone: 704-435-4907

CE (4/26, 5/03, 10 & 17/2023)

CHS Ironmen baseball downs TJCA; Shelby on the way to dropping rival Burns

Team is currently 21-4 overall; 11-1 in SPC 1A/2A play

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The CHS Ironmen baseball juggernaut keeps rolling along, with an eye on the prize of possibly another state championship. Last week, they were 18-4 overall, and 11-1 in SPC 1A/2A play and didn’t look to be slowing down any. As they head into the final week of play the Ironmen are far ahead of other teams in the hunt, according to an NCHSAA West projection.

Let’s have a look at their last two matchups: between them and the visiting Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy Gryphons and the Shelby Golden Lions.

In the Tuesday, May 2 game at Fraley Field pitting the Ironmen against the visiting TJCA Gryphons, the Ironmen, who have bested this team on numerous occasions, did it again, blanking them 10-0 in a mercy-ruled five innings of play at Fraley Field.

Coach Heavner used two pitchers in this one – lefty Collin Huss, who struck out 8 batters and walked 3, and righthanded dynamo, Collin Robinson, who polished it all off by striking out two batters.

Hitters for Coach Heavner and his crew

Lady Ironmen currently 14-7 overall; 8-3 in SPC 1A/2A

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

On Monday, May 1, the CHS Lady Ironmen played the BCHS Lady Yellow Jackets and defeated their rivals by a score of 17-2. Head coach Lance Beam said the CHS ladies were led by winning pitcher Krista Davis who had eight (8) strikeouts as well as two (2) home runs, two singles, and five RBIs.

First baseman Riley Bryant had 3 doubles, and 5 RBI’s; while Landyn McBride, Emma Proctor, Laila Davis, and Ava Miller all had two hits each.

On Tuesday, May 3, in the conference tournament, the CHS ladies took on the Lady Rams of Highland Tech who came to play at CHS Field. The resulting score was Cherryville 15 – Highland Tech 4. See LADY, Page 10

ble, an RBI, scored on a wild pitch and a balk); Will Fowler (2-3, and hit by a pitch); Tobias Miller (2-3, a walk); Huss (1-3, a home run, and an RBI); Brayden Reynolds (1-3, a home run); and Chase Miller (1-2, an RBI).

The Ironmen got their 10 runs off of 12 hits.

Against the Shelby Golden Lions

The Ironmen won this battle 7-3 with pitchers Eli Newsome and Kanon Willis racking up some nice stats so far as strike outs go: Newsome struck out seven Golden Lions batters while teammate Willis knocked off two (K’s). It took the CHS men nine hits to rack up their 7 runs, but that did

the trick.

Hitters for Coach Scotty Heavner’s men in blue were as follows: Hahn (3-4, he also got his 100th hit!); Willis (2-4, 2 RBIs, and scored on a wild pitch); Fowler (2-3, hit by a pitch); Will Heavner (1-3 and a walk); Tobias Miller (3-3, an RBI, and hit by a pitch); Collin Huss (2-3, 3 RBIs, and hit by a pitch); and Brayden Reynolds (1-3).

They played Burns at Burns on Friday, May 5, and won that game 6-3. They are currently 21-4 overall; 11-1 in SPC play. (Additional information by

Ironmen senior and shortstop Landon Hahn steps on home plate after his home run at Burns High School last week. His teammates Collin Robinson and Chase Miller are waiting to

Susan L. Powell and Danny Eaker)

Landon Hahn watches the ball closely; is it a strike or a ball? (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

The Thomas Jefferson pitcher is trying to pick off Ironman Landon Hahn at first. Hahn got back just in time!

CHS senior ball player Collin Huss, a lefty, slings one toward the plate in last week’s game against the visiting TJCA Gryphons.

CHS batter Will Fowler takes aim at the incoming pitch, preparing to send it into the stratosphere!

The 2023 CHS Ironmen baseball team pose for a photo after their win at Burns High School last week.

Ironmen head coach Scott Heavner hands the ball from his 100th at-bats to CHS senior ball player Landon Hahn. It was his 100th hit in a game.

NC House passes Fairness in Women’s Sports Act

by CAROLINA JOURNAL STAFF

Lawmakers in the North Carolina House passed H574, the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act which would prevent biological female athletes from being forced to compete against biological male transgender athletes in school sports designated for females. The bill would not prevent transgender athletes from participating on teams that are co-ed or designated for their biological sex at birth.

The bill passed the House Judiciary Committee Wednesday morning, the Rules Committee at lunchtime, and passed third reading of the full House by the end of the day Wednesday. The veto-proof vote was 73 to 39 with three Democrats voting in favor of the measure. Rep. Shelly Willingham, D-Edgecombe; Rep. Michael Wray, D-Warren; and Rep. Garland Pierce, D-Hoke, all voted for the bill.

The bill sponsors, Rep. Erin Pare, R-Wake, Rep. Kristin Baker, R-Cabarrus, Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, R-Henderson, and Rep. Karl Gillespie, R-Cherokee, invited collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines to testify on behalf of the bill

VOTER ID 2

From Page 2 protect their basic human right to self-governance and self-determination,” Earls added. “In so doing, the majority ignores the uncontested truths about the intentions behind partisan gerrymandering and erects an unconvincing façade that only parrots democratic values in an attempt to defend its decision.”

Based on the earlier Supreme Court rulings, legislators had planned to draw new maps this year for 2024 elections to Congress and the state Senate. They also had indicated their plans to draw a new state House map. The new Harper v. Hall decision is likely to affect those plans.

Felon voting

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Tuesday morning in committee. Gaines’ story has become national news after she tied transgender swimmer Lia Thomas in an NCAA championship race designated for women and the organization honored Thomas, a biological male, instead of Gaines.

At Tuesday’s committee hearings opponents from Equality NC urged lawmakers to reject the bill saying that it prevents transgender athletes from competing, and warning that activist outcry, similar to the state’s HB2 “bathroom bill,” could ensue. So far this year 20 states have passed legislation protecting the rights of female

Unlike the other two cases, the decision Friday in Community Success Initiative v. Moore does not overrule an earlier ruling from the outgoing Democrat-led state Supreme Court. The current court heard oral arguments in February.

Plaintiffs in that case challenged the law restoring voting rights to N.C. felons. Activists hoped to open the door to voting by as many as 56,000 felons who had completed active prison time but had not completed their full sentences.

A split 2-1 trial court ruling, upheld by a split 2-1 state Appeals Court ruling, allowed felons to register and vote in last November’s election. Now the state’s highest court has overruled those lower courts.

“Our state constitution ties voting rights to the obligation that all citizens have to refrain from criminal misconduct,”

athletes from facing what supporters say is an unfair competitive advantage from biologically male transgender athletes. However, the competitive advantage was not the only argument in favor of the bill.

Payton McNabb of Cherokee County, North Carolina, was also there to testify to her own experience. She was critically injured in a Hiwassee High School volleyball game in which she was playing against Highlands High School. A transgender athlete on the opposing team spiked a ball into her head, knocking her unconscious, ending her season, and setting off months

wrote Justice Trey Allen, one of the court’s two newest members. “Specifically, it denies individuals with felony convictions the right to vote unless their citizenship rights are restored ‘in the manner prescribed by law.’ No party to this litigation disputes the validity of Article VI, Section 2(3) of the North Carolina Constitution.”

“This case is therefore not about whether disenfranchisement should be a consequence of a felony conviction,” Allen added. “The state constitution says that it must be, and we are bound by that mandate.”

Plaintiffs instead challenged laws approved in the 1970s to set the rules for felons to regain voting rights.

“The evidence does not prove that legislators intended their reforms … in the early 1970s to disadvantage African Americans, nor does it substantiate

of pain, rehabilitation, learning challenges, and other injuries. The Cherokee County School Board vote 5 to 1 to forfeit future games against Highland out of concern for the safety of the female athlete on their teams. As a result, the forfeiting teams and athletes could not compete at state conferences and championships.

“The rest of my team was terrified because they didn’t want it to happen to them too, but the other team, the one with the transgender athlete on it, they just kinda laughed,” she said.

McNabb told Carolina Journal that the one neurologist who saw her after the injury would not treat her out of fear for the political climate that comes with her being injured by a transgender player.

“They didn’t want to be a part of it because it was so controversial,” she said.

Controversy has been following Gaines too since she became a vocal supporter of protecting women’s sports. After a speech at San Francisco State University two weeks ago, Gaines was chased and shouted down by protestors, leading her to be locked in a classroom for three hours while security found rein-

plaintiffs’ other constitutional claims,” Allen wrote. “It is not unconstitutional to insist that felons pay their debt to society as a condition of participating in the electoral process. We therefore reverse the trial court’s final order and judgment.”

“The General Assembly did not engage in racial discrimination or otherwise violate the North Carolina Constitution by requiring individuals with felony convictions to complete their sentences – including probation, parole, or post-release supervision – before they regain the right to vote,” Allen added.

Earls wrote again for the dissenting Democratic justices. “The majority’s decision in this case will one day be repudiated on two grounds,” she wrote.

“First, because it seeks to justify the denial of a basic human right to citizens and thereby

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forcements. The video of that harrowing moments went viral on social media and led her to become even more outspoken.

While in Raleigh Wednesday, McNabb and Gaines were surrounded by Capitol Police officers as they made their way to lawmakers’ offices and committee rooms. There were activists there to oppose the bill, but generally the mood was calm.

Gaines was originally scheduled to start dental school this year, but has instead taken this opportunity to partner with the Independent Women’s Forum to educate legislatures across the country on measures to protect women’s sports. Later this week she is lobbying against the Biden Administration’s efforts to amend the Title IX laws that protect women’s sports. Those federal amendments are aimed at blocking states from banning biologically male transgender athletes from women’s sports. The Biden administration says the new rules “govern a recipient’s adoption or application of sex-related criteria that would limit or deny a student’s eligibility to participate on a male or female athletic team consistent with their gen-

perpetuates a vestige of slavery, and second, because the majority violates a basic tenant of appellate review by ignoring the facts as found by the trial court and substituting its own.”

It’s not clear from the new opinion how the ruling will affect felons who participated in the 2022 general election.

Legislative leaders responded to the three rulings

“For years plaintiffs and activist courts have manipulated our Constitution to achieve policy outcomes that could not be won at the ballot box,” said Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, in an emailed statement. “Today’s rulings affirm that our Constitution cannot be exploited to fit the political whims of left-wing Democrats.”

“The decisions handed down today by the N.C. Supreme Court have ensured that

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der identity.”

In Wednesday’s hearing at the N.C. legislature, opponents of the bill urged lawmakers to wait for those Title IX amendments from the Biden administration to govern this issue. Several said that while McNabb’s injury was unfortunate, there are only fifteen or fewer transgender athletes competing in women’s sports in N.C., so the bill was “a solution in search of a problem.”

“They made me feel like I didn’t really matter because it was just me, just one person,” McNabb told Carolina Journal. “If it was going to happen to anyone on my team, I’d rather it happen to me instead of my younger cousins, or my teammates, because I guess I’m the one who could take it… the Lord let it happen to me for a reason because I feel like I should do something about it.”

The N.C. Senate has companion legislation in SB631, Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which was reported favorably out of the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday and is on the Senate calendar for next Thursday.

our constitution and the will of the people of North Carolina are honored,” said House Speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland. “Nearly five years after the voters of this state overwhelmingly voted in favor of photo ID at the polls, it has finally become the law of the land. We will fulfill our constitutional duty to redraw state House, Senate, and congressional maps.”

“Today is a great day for North Carolina and the rule of law,” said N.C. Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley. “The people of North Carolina rejected the blatant activism of the progressive judges by electing a strong majority of conservative Justices. These rulings are a big step toward restoring respect for the Constitution and taking politics out of the courtroom.”

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Hiwassee Dam High School volleyball player Payton McNabb, injured in a volleyball game on a spike by a transgender player on the other team, speaks at House Judiciary Committee hearing, April 19, 2023.

memory of Gracie is last season when she went to run onto the field at Highland Tech and fell flat, like a pancake. With the seniors is head soccer coach, Morgan Lineberger. Congratulations soccer seniors! (photo provided)

LADY

From Page 7 Coach Beam said freshman Raylei Gidney was the winning pitcher in this matchup.

As for hitters for the Lady Ironmen, he noted Landyn McBride had a triple, 2 singles, and 2 RBI’s), followed by Emma Proctor (double, single, an RBI), Lexi McSwain (2 singles, RBI), Laila Davis (double, single, 2 RBI’s) and Ava Miller, with 2 singles, and 2 RBI’s, and first baseman Riley Bryant, who singled, but drove in 5 RBI’s.

By JIM MILLER Editor

How to Prepare a Will

Dear Savvy Senior,

I would like to make my last will and testament and would like to know if I can do it myself, or do I need to hire a lawyer?

Don’t Have Much

Dear Don’t,

Very good question! Almost everyone needs a will, but only around one-third of American have actually prepared one. Having a last will and testament is important because it ensures your money and property will be distributed to the people you want to receive it after your death.

If you die without a will (a.k.a. dying “intestate”), your estate will be settled in accordance with state law. Details vary by state, but assets typically are distributed using a hierarchy of survivors i.e., first to a spouse, then to children, then your siblings, and so on. You also need to be aware that certain accounts take precedence over a will. If you jointly own a home or a bank account, for example, the house, and

the funds in the account, will go to the joint holder, even if your will directs otherwise. Similarly, retirement accounts and life insurance policies are distributed to the beneficiaries you designate, so it is important to keep them up to date too.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

Not necessarily. Creating a will with a do-it-yourself software program may be acceptable in some cases, particularly if you have a simple, straightforward estate and an uncomplicated family situation. Otherwise, it’s best to seek professional advice. An experienced lawyer can make sure you cover all your bases, which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after you’re gone.

If you need help finding someone the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA.org), the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC.org) and the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC.org) websites are good resources that have online directories to

help you search.

Costs will vary depending on your location and the complexity of your situation, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $1,000 or more to get your will made. To help you save, shop around and get price quotes from several different firms. And before you meet with an attorney, make a detailed list of your assets and accounts to help make your visit more efficient.

If money is tight, check with your state’s bar association (see FindLegalHelp.org) to find low-cost legal help in your area. Or call the Eldercare Locater at 800-677-1116 for a referral.

If you are interested in a do-it-yourself will, some top options to consider are Nolo’s Quicken WillMaker & Trust (Nolo.com, $99) and Trust & Will (TrustandWill.com, $159). Or, if that’s more than you’re willing to pay, you can make your will for free at FreeWill.com or DoYourOwnWill. com.

It’s also recommended that if you do create your own will, have a lawyer review it to make sure it covers all the important bases.

Where to Store it?

Once your will is written, the best place to keep it is either in a fireproof safe or file cabinet at home, in a safe deposit box in your bank or online at sites like Everplans.com. But make sure your executor knows where it is and has access to it. Or, if a professional prepares your will, keep the original document at your lawyer’s office. Also, be sure to update your will if your family or financial circumstances change, or if you move to another state.

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.

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