Cherryville Eagle 6-28-23

2023 Independence Day event at Rudisill Stadium June 30

Success of last year’s show cements choice by city for this year’s festival

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

After a two-year hiatus

Cherryville Farmer’s Market is back

Smaller version of its original self but still some familiar faces; products

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

They’re here! After a two-year hiatus, the beloved Cherryville Farmer’s Market is back, although this year’s iteration was a wee bit smaller than its original self. Not to worry though… talk is there will be more vendors returning though the dates are set in stone quite yet.

Mary Beth Tackett, City of Cherryville Program Coordinator and Cherryville Chamber of Commerce Director, said recently, “I’m over the market since (former FM Director/Manager) Richard (Randall) left.” She noted she will be available for Farmer’s Market-related questions at (704) 435-3451 (Cherryville Chamber of Commerce phone number).

The Farmer’s Market was started in 2012 and had been a successful event for a number of years, said Mrs. Tackett, who noted the reason for the city having to stop having the market was one that couldn’t be

avoided.

“We did not have the market the past two years due to the streetscape process,” she said. There really wasn’t any place feasible to have it and do it properly.

As for her being glad to have it back, Tackett said, “I am so excited that the market is back! I know many citizens have missed it.”

The city’s Mini Park Gazebo was the site for the return of the 2023 FM and vendor Leonhardt Farms was back in force, with tables full of boxes of good farm-to-table food, all grown locally. There was even a small sign marked “Jack’s Vegetable Crossing” to indicate the gentleman who grew the food and his little plot of God’s good earth.

Customer Phyllis Lawing said, “I’ve been waiting for this (the return of the Cherryville Farmer’s Market) a long time!”

Ann Hall, of Leonhardt Farms, said she has been doing Farmer’s Markets for 17 years.

Martha Pate, of Pate’s Bakery was on hand, having brought her famous homemade sourdough bread and See MARKET, Page 2

Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Cherryville Colby Heffner said the city will be hosting its annual Independence Day Celebration on June 30, from 6-10 p.m., at Rudisill Stadium. Assistant Chief Heffner also added he will be the lead operator/IC for the event and Captain Nathan Bowman will be the lead shooter.

“The fireworks will be shot from the First Methodist Church parking lot and the best viewing location is within the Rudisill stadium complex,” said AFC Heffner, who is also the Safety Director.

He continued, “The Cherryville Fire Department would also like to remind all citizens that aerial fireworks are not permitted in North Carolina. It is strongly advised that the citizens of

wide-angle view of the

first time,

Cherryville refrain from shooting these types of fireworks and attend shows only operated by licensed professionals.”

Last year, it was noted in the Eagle the venue “…had to be changed; moved actually, due to construction work being done on the downtown area where past celebrations have

1,

Cherryville Independence

normally been held.” Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam, III welcomed everyone to the 2022 festivities and he will do the same this year.

Beam noted last year he saw “quite a few people there at the stadium,” adding, “When I left shortly after the fireworks began, I drove on Pink Street and saw many people in chairs watching. Even the tables at Houser Drug were filled with many, many people, and at the First Baptist

See EVENT, Page 6

(Ed.’s. Note: Valedictorian Joseph England’s original speech was set aside right before he was to give it, he said. Instead, he spoke from his heart and gave this speech below. His and Salutatorian Rileigh Kiser’s speeches were both given on May 26, 2023, at the CHS graduation ceremony at Rudisill Stadium.)

Joseph England’s 2023 CHS Valedictorian speech,

titled: “The Voice”

Good evening friends, family, extended family. Once upon a time in 1997, Fiona Apple quoted Maya Angelou, saying: ‘We, as human beings, at our best, can only create opportunities.’ And I’m going to use this opportunity how I want to.

“First, Mom, Dad, thank you for being the parents you

See SPEECHES, Page 9

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Mrs. Monica Lockwood, of Cherryville, was elected N.C. Department Chaplain for the American Legion on June10.

Said Mrs. Lockwood, “I am just learning what that all entails, (which is)

mainly (attending) three (3) major meetings – the fall, and spring conferences, and convention in June and going to the national convention this year in Charlotte on Aug. 25 through Aug. 31, as a delegate.”

Lockwood, who served in the Marine Corp, is member of Shelby Post 82, and is also a member of Cherryville Auxiliary Unit 100.

She said her duties entail sending out cards to ill veterans or their family members, if they are deceased, See LOCKWOOD, Page 9

Cherryville Historical Museum Director Pat Sherrill said she was pleased to have four visitors come by the CHM last week (Monday, June 19, 2023), one of whom donated a rare bottle from the Cherryville Bottleworks.

The rarity, circa 1900 – 1920s, was donated to the museum, Mrs. Sherrill noted, by Mr. David Blakely Chiswell on that Monday.

Mrs. Sherrill said the Cherryville Bottleworks appears on the Sanborn map of 1910, off the Main street of Cherryville, near the location of the Roy and Troy

Grocery. “Further research is pending,” she stated in an email about the donation. Sherrill noted Mr. Chiswell said he “…purchased the bottle from a collector in Marion earlier in June, 2023.” Sherrill further stated, “He (Mr. Chiswell) made the donation in memory of his two aunts, Ruby and Virginia (Jenny) Witherspoon, natives and long time residents of Cherryville.” Said Mrs. Sherrill, “David Chiswell’s roots go deep in the area. He is a descendant of Joshua Roberts, who was a native of this area and served with the Patriots at the Battle of Kings

See BOTTLEWORKS, Page 9

A

July

2022

Day festivities, held for the

and to much acclaim, at Cherryville High School’s home of the football Ironmen and men’s and CHS soccer teams – Rudisill Stadium. (file photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media or Susan L. Powell)

A stunning example of last year’s Cherryville fireworks; as things got started, this classic chrysanthemum-style blast lit up the night.

2023 CHS Valedictorian 2023 CHS Salutatorian

■ OBITUARIES

Nash Mental Health. Kirby also worked at Tri-County Industries and at several mental health agencies in the area.

Kirby Wayne Randall

BATTLEBORO – Kirby

Wayne Randall, 72, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 22, 2023. He was born to Quince Cornelius Randall, Jr. and Muriel George Randall.

Kirby was a graduate of UNC – Charlotte and worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years. He started as a recreational therapist at Broughton Hospital in Morganton. Kirby was a coordinator for the Western NC Special Olympics during that time. He moved to Battleboro and continued service at Edgecombe

For several years, he sold roses, with other flowers, in bouquets in Nash and surrounding counties. Kirby enjoyed his hounds, and for years, bred and showed bloodhounds in the circuits of NC, SC, VA, TN, and GA. However, his favorite pastime was to search for Native American arrowheads and other artifacts in the fields of the surrounding areas.

Kirby is survived by his wife of 43 years, Anne Marie Harrison Randall, of Battleboro; daughter, Jennifer Randall Wychock, husband Neal, and grandson, John Henry Wychock, all of Ferndale, WA; brother, Randy Randall, his wife Teresa, niece, Amy Randall, and nephew, Jason Randall, all of North Myrtle Beach, SC; two brothers-in-law, Lynn Harrison and Rick Whitney, both of San Francisco, CA; and last, his devoted canine companion, a

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

beagle named Leray.

A funeral service to celebrate Kirby’s life was held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 2 p.m., in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Burial followed the service at Battleboro Cemetery in Battleboro. Visitation with the family was from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m., prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Kirby’s memory to the North Carolina Archaeological Society, c/o Research Laboratories of Archaeology Campus Box 3120, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3120.

Arrangements were entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC.

You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www. wheelerwoodlief.com.

6-15: Mark Douglas Heafner, 54, 408 N. Elm St., Cherryville; one count each misdemeanor DWI; reckless driving to endanger; and conceal handgun/ permit violation. Released on a written promise.

6-17: Robert Christopher Cherry, 24, 110 Belmar Rd., Cherryville, was arrested at 1638 Windermere Rd., Gaston county, by GCPD officers on seven (7) counts of an OFA (contempt of court/ perjury/court violations).

INCIDENTS

6-11: On Feb. 8, 2023 Walmart in Cherryville reported the listed suspect fraudulently returned property/items by false pretenses in order to obtain money ($26.98). Case is active and under further investigation.

6-14: Cherryville man reports all other larceny ($50/Stihl FS 80, 85 Weed Eater) by unknown person/s who carried listed item away. Case is active and under further investigation.

6-15: Cherryville man reports call for service as he was struck by a vehicle on 201 C St., Cherryville. No injuries reported. Case closed by other means.

6-15: CPD officer reports DWI; reckless driving to endanger; and conceal handgun permit violation by listed subject who drove impaired. Closed/cleared by arrest.

6-18: Cherryville woman reports call for service on overdose by listed victim who took unknown tablet, requiring Narcan. Closed/cleared by other means.

6-20: Bessemer City man reports call for service about a possible attempted suicide at Cherryville address. Case is active and under further investigation.

WRECKS

6-6: A vehicle driven by Anna Rufina Ellison, 78, 100 Falconview Rd., Lincolnton, and a vehicle driven by Christina Sue Davy, 54, 412 N. Mountain St., Cherryville, were both traveling west on Hwy. 150. The Ellison vehicle was changing lanes, that’s when it collided with the Davy vehicle. No injuries reported. Est. damages to each vehicle: $650/vehicle.

6-13: A vehicle driven by Roxanne Gale Cogdill, 36, 817 E. Main St., Cherryville, collided in the rear with a vehicle driven by Lee Coleman Revels, 52, 345 Pine Ave., Cherryville, which was stopped at a red light on Main Street. Mr. Revels stated to the responding officer his neck was hurting from the impact, but refused when EMS was offered to come to the scene. Est. damages to the Cogdill vehicle: 200; to the Revels vehicle: $250.

no OL; and improper tires. (Ed. note: On another report received by the Eagle office, it was noted Mr. Feaster’s age was listed as 29.)

6-17: A vehicle driven by Nathan Michael Stewart, 29, 309 Beattie Rd., Kings Mountain, and a vehicle driven by Julie Ann Clinton, 34, 709 Bethlehem Rd., Kings Mountain, collided at the intersection of First and Mountain Streets. Ms. Clinton told the responding officer she had a green light in her lane of travel. Mr. Stewart said he was talking to his daughter and was blinded by the sunlight and did not see the traffic signal. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Stewart vehicle: $300; to the Clinton-driven Postal Services vehicle: $500.

6-19: A vehicle driven by Jr. Parker Allen, 21, 114 Harbor Point Dr., Cherryville, collided in the rear with a vehicle driven by William Arthur Grant, 67, 942 Thorpe Rd., Shelby, which was slowing down for the red light at Rudisill Ave., and Church Street. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Allen vehicle: $1,000; to the Grant vehicle: $1,000.

(photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Food vendor, and past crowd favorite, Leonhardt Farms, with their famous “Jack’s Vegetables”, is back, with their tables full of good, home-grown food. The tables are manned by Mrs. Ann Hall and Mrs. Gail McGlothin. Ms. Martha Pate, of Pate’s Bakery, a.k.a. “The Bread and Cake Lady.” is also back and looking forward to seeing some old friends and customers.

6-15: Cherryville man reports call for service as he was struck by a vehicle on C St., Cherryville. No injuries reported. Closed/ cleared by other means.

6-16: Cherryville man reports call for service/ overdose. Case is active.

6-16: Vale woman reports larceny ($700 Apple iPhone 12) by listed suspect who stole cell phone at Cherryville business. Closed/cleared by other means.

6-15: A vehicle driven by Okivia Antwon Feaster, 30, 549 Carolina Dr., Chester, S.C., missed the turn on Academy St., Cherryville, and backed up, colliding with a vehicle driven by Sarah Michelle Fox Sandoval, 28, 187 Hilltop Rd., Lincolnton. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Feaster vehicle: $0; to the Sandoval vehicle: $2,000. Feaster was cited for improper backing; operating CMV while CDL disqualified;

6-20: A vehicle driven by Janice Hush McGill, 62, 2729 Philadelphia Rd., Lawndale, and a vehicle driven by Mitchell Terrell Crocker, 50, 1065 St. Mark’s Church Rd., Cherryville, collided at the joining of First Street and Church Street. Ms. McGill told responding officer she was trying to “make an evasive action.” Mr. Crocker said he made Ms. McGill made a left turn in front of him, which is when they collided. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the McGill vehicle: $3,500; to the Crocker vehicle: $1,000. The McGill vehicle was towed to Randy’s Body Shop by KT Towing.

From cantaloupes to corn, with potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, and squash in between, Leonhardt Farms has everything you need for a great farm-to-table meal.

MARKET

From

out that day, also works at the Denver, N.C., Farmer’s Market every Saturday, she said.

The ladies worked in spite of it being a rainy day, noting they liked being under the Gazebo as it kept them all dry.

Ann and Gail both noted they were all “glad to be back,” but Martha added, with a smile, “But we’ll be more glad more glad later on when the sun comes out!”

The Cherryville Farmer’s Market will be held every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

“Fresh Produce!” from 8 a.m., until noon every Thursday, the signs in downtown Cherryville advertised. After a 2-year hiatus, the Cherryville Farmer’s Market is back!

Tackett said for more information on becoming a vendor, or a sponsor, or to find out if a location has been moved due to inclement weather, please call (704) 435-3451.

CFCU awards $6,000

Joel Wallace, and Don Starling Memorial Scholarship. The credit union awarded three $2,000 scholarships to qualified local high school seniors.

The scholarship recipients include: Rileigh Kiser – Cherryville High School;

GASTONIA, NC

–

The North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Community has awarded the 2023 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award to eight recipients from Gaston County.

The awards were presented at the Tuesday, June 13, 2023 Gaston County Commission meeting following a proclamation from the Commission recognizing the outstanding service of these individuals.

Award certificates and lapel pins were presented to the recipients by Barbara Yarbrough, County Awards Coordinator, who described each individual’s volunteer service, and Andrea Stephens, President of United Way of Gaston County. A reception was held earlier in the afternoon honoring the recipients.

reasons, including their academic achievements, community involvement, character, leadership experiences, and passion for pursuing their goals.

“Each year, we provide scholarships for local high

Ms. Yarbrough stated that these citizens demonstrate that one is never too young or too old to become a volunteer in their community.

The 2023 Award Recipients are: John Philip (Flip) Bombardier, who has mentored students at York Chester Middle School for almost 30 years. Aubrey Iona Bridges, a volunteer at Tryon Elementary School who also uses her disability by sharing her story, in numerous presentations, showing others better ways to be inclusive to all students and community members.

Union.

The scholarship supports a local high school senior who plans to attend a two-year or four-year college or university, or trade school after graduation. Students can use the

“Throughout the years, beginning in 2008, many members, local businesses, the Jenkins and Starling families, and our community have shown support for the CFCU memorial scholarship fund, and through

Angelica Sibaja – Lincolnton High School, with Carolina Federal Credit Union President, Donna Beringer.

gratitude,” said Allison Brewer, Marketing Director at Carolina Federal Credit Union.

The 2024 Carolina Federal Credit Union Jack Jenkins, Joel Wallace, and Don Starling Memo-

January 2024. The CFCU Memorial Scholarship Tournament will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023 at Deer Brook Golf Club in Shelby, NC. Contact Allison Brewer at Carolina Federal Credit Union at (704) 435-0186, to get involved or with any questions.

The award recipients represent a wide range of ages and backgrounds, from a middle school student to an octogenarian.

Kaitlyn Dockery, whose volunteer efforts support the Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic and WA Bess Elementary School. Rebecca (Becky) Lipka, who has given more than 30 years’ service to the Girls Scouts, serving youth as well as adult leaders.

Rev. Dr. Joan Martin, a volunteer leader in nu-

merous community organizations. Richard (Dick) Ruhlman, who mentors children through the Gaston Literacy Council’s Reading Soulmates program and also serves as a Guardian ad Litem.

Heather Vernitsy, PTO President at Springfield Elementary, who initiated numerous projects and fundraisers at the school to support students and staff, and Dr. Jaimie Whyte, a volunteer for

to

their community volunteer service. The award was created in the Office of the Governor in 1979.

neighbors by making a significant contribution SHELTON FIREWORKS © Community First Media

Kiersten Fleury – Maiden High School, being presented her scholarship check by Allison Brewer, Marketing Director at Carolina Federal Credit Union.

Outstanding volunteers in Gaston County are recognized SEND US YOUR NEWS michael@cfmedia.info Prescription opioids can be addictive and dangerous It only takes a little to lose a lot. cdc.gov/RxAwareness

A photo of the award recipients, with the Gaston County Commissioners standing behind them at a recent County Commission meeting are: Left to right: Heather Vernitsky, Rev. Dr. Joan Martin, Rebecca Lipka, Kaitlyn Dockery, Dr. Jaimie Whyte, Aubrey Iona Bridges, Richard Ruhlman, and John Philip (Flip) Bombardier. (photo provided)

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE:

Liberty has never come from Government. Liberty has always come from the subjects of it. The history of liberty is a history of limitations of governmental power, not the increase of it.

–Woodrow Wilson

Looking forward to a great Fourth celebration here in Cherryville!

In our 16plus years of living in Cherryville the wife and I – as well as more than a few folks from near and far – have been treated every July 4th holiday, or thereabouts, to one of the best fireworks displays for a town this size ever!

This year will be, no doubt, absolutely NO exception as – once again – and I have to say it… my hat (if, and when, I wear one) will be off to the Cherryville Fire Department’s crew of ‘pyros’ wizards. It will also be off as well to our Cherryville Police Department, the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, the Gaston County PD, and the GEMS men and women who all make sure everyone is not only safe but will have a great time. You know… full dis-

closure here… back in the day (2007, 2008 etc.), when I wrote that we had many thousands attend our great little fireworks show, I confess it was hard to see them all at one time, right? Then, along came drones and that helped us all visualize the bigger picture of the BIG BOOM. Well, folks! Let me tell you what! As my wife and I sat in the Rudisill Stadium stands (the site of last year’s BIG BOOM), after strolling around, we sat and watched as folks came in, and came in, and came in, and, well…came in! I finally took a wide angle shot before it got too dark

and let me tell you, it was amazing. I saw folks all over that field and in the stands, having fun, listening to good music, eating some good food, and setting up their lawn chairs as they got ready to watch our CFD “pyro genies” (thanks to AFC Colby Heffner and Capt. Nathan Bowman and ALL the fire crew ladies and gents) work their fiery, star-bursting magic!

And, of course, they didn’t disappoint as things got under way around 10 p.m.

But, before we get to “all things whiz-bang,” let me say a big “job well done” to the Chamber of Commerce, the City staff and City Council members, all the City of Cherryville workers in whatever capacity they served, the great folks at Cherryville’s First United Methodist Church; pastor AND congregation, and just about any- and everybody who took part in last year’s, as well as who will take part in this

Are Presidential candidates sinners?

Are the Presidential candidates all sinners?

This could be a potential question for an upcoming town hall meeting or debate.

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Answers by the candidates would be interesting. Would any candidate admit to being a sinner? Would some of them deny ever having sinned? Would they say something like, “I sinned a long time ago.” Or, I might have sinned some as a young adult.”

If any would admit to having sin in their lives, would they be comfortable explaining which sins they have committed? Probably not because any admission would become fodder for the other candidates to beat on them throughout the campaign. Of course, the media would freeze the admission into print to be replayed multiple times.

What would they admit to? Do political candidates ever admit to being wrong? Doing wrong things and saying

wrong words sometimes are accidental but which of them would be willing to admit to even an accidental moral or ethical slip?

The truth is that all the Presidential candidates are sinners. If they say they have never sinned then they are liars. The Bible says, “If we say we have not sinned we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us,” 1 John 1:9. Another verse says, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23.

Jesus Christ is God’s measuring stick. He’s the only human the Bible says Who ever lived without sin. According to the verse of scripture we have come short of Jesus Christ.

The bottom line is that we are all sinners. Thus, so are all the Presidential candidates.

Politicians, like most all humans, are more comfortable pointing out the failures and sins of the opposing candidate. We all do this to some extent. We point out the wrong things that others are doing. This makes us feel a little more righteous. However, when we point our finger at someone else, we al-

ways have three more pointing back at us.

How could there ever be a town hall meeting or political debate without blasting the opposition and condemning every movement the opponent ever made? In our world it would be a difficult achievement. Most of the Republican candidates have already been criticized for not condemning former President Donald Trump enough.

Hopefully in the myriad upcoming television political speeches and discussions we will hear more about what each candidate has done and what he or she will do if elected.

Unfortunately, I am not really interested in spending endless hours listening to political rhetoric. Summer is here in its full glory. Daylight in my area starts about 5 a.m., and lasts until almost 9 p.m. I want to be outside walking, biking, and enjoying life. I’ll review all the candidates and have my voting decision made by election day.

Between now and then they can hash out and beat out their failures and sins among themselves.

year’s, ID4 event.

Cherryville folks have been treated to some great fireworks’ shows in the past, thanks to the CFD crews then and now Chief Jason Wofford and AFC Colby Heffner and the captains and fire crews continue an unbroken tradition of excellence, making all of us smile as we “ooh” and “aah” the warm night away, looking skyward.

Folks, with all the bad that’s going on in the world today, where even a simple thing like a Fourth of July celebration gets turned into a senseless bloodbath, it’s nice to know God has been gracious to

our little town, and I for one pray that continues on ad infinitum, which means… well, forever!

Look, I know many things about this great land of ours aren’t what everyone would like for them to be, but look around you at what other countries are going through right now. While we do have our rough patches, we have been very, VERY blessed, would you not agree?

Nothing in life is ever perfect. None of us are ever promised a warm, fuzzy Kodak-moment, Walt Disney-inspired life by any means. Still, we do have it far better in America than many

other countries, even the more westernized ones. Anyway; didn’t mean to preach here. Just wanted to give a big “THANK YOU!” shoutout to all my Cherryville (and area) friends and neighbors and to all those folks who keep us safe every day and keep the wheels of local government moving forward, day in and day out. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart! Keep on doing what you do so well. You are the best – bar none!

That said… have a safe and happy summer y’all!

Families are the best; they are very important today!

I just love my family. The four family members that I grew up with are all in heaven now, and they’ve been there many years. I miss them so much, and I think about them very often. I grew up with two wonderful parents and two brothers named David and Doug. My brothers were both older than me and liked to aggravate me at times, but it was basically good-natured fun among siblings.

By Anne S. Haynes

much, but they are very special to me.

I really admire my sister-inlaw Violet’s family from Loris, South Carolina. Some of the family members are in heaven, but the remaining ones are very close and visit as often as they can, considering Loris is close to Myrtle Beach. I love it when they come to see Violet, and they include Tommy and me in their visits.

they worked together to finish their tasks and always looked after each other. And they still do that today.

David was the oldest in the family, being six years older than me. My parents and David lived with my Grandma Smith back then before moving out to a rented house where my brother Doug was born. They eventually built a house where I was born two years later. These facts may not seem like

Violet grew up on a farm in Loris, and they had to work very hard to keep everything running smoothly there. They did not have time to participate in activities after school because chores had to be done. But amazingly enough, I have never heard any of them complain about that. They knew what had to be done, and

As I said, I love it when Violet’s family come to visit. Violet’s brother, Merritt and his wife, Saundra visited recently along with Violet’s sisters, Marilyn and Elaine. They are always positive and upbeat and make you feel optimistic just being around them. I love to associate with good people who care about others and try to make this world a better place. Unfortunately, there are also many people who do the opposite, but I refuse to deal in negativity.

Strong families are very important these days. I believe they are part of the foundation of our country and our society. It’s my prayers that strong families will continue to grow and thrive all around us.

Center your life with some summertime worship

As we start the summer months, I realize that July-August is a time for getting away, relaxing, and refreshing.

Before you go, there are many things at work and other places that need to get done as you ready yourself to leave for summer vacation. I am sure your life is no different than many other folks and you have planned for a busy summer experi-

ence. Most have already made plans to visit, vacation and do all kinds of extra activities throughout the upcoming months.

But, if your summer is feeling too busy and moving too quickly, I would like to suggest you find help by taking the time to center your life by including time to worship.

The Psalmist reminds us of the power of finding the time to “be still and know God is God.”

Jesus says that coming to Him will help us find

A Priceless Keepsake

Final Part of “Get a Grip” Series)

When something is valuable to us we hold on to it. I have journals that I have kept since I was 12 years old. My mother-in-love has items that have been in her family for several generations. She periodically tells my husband and I to not disregard them when we inherit them, because they are meaningful. Others have photos, scrapbooks, and other keepsakes to remind them of pleasant memories, personal growth or special relationships. Although much of what we treasure tends to be tangible and will perish eventually, there is an invaluable gift that will last throughout eternity. Romans 6:23 (AMP) says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Cherish The Gift

Salvation is truly a gift, because we can’t earn it; we believe and receive it. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT) says, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” However, it is to be handled and taken care of with great love, intentionality and diligence by being quick to repent when our thoughts, words and actions are not aligned with the word of God. Also, making time each day to talk to God about his desires for our lives shows that our salvation is a priority. Phillppians 2:12 (AMP) says, “So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].”

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

“Lord what kind of love is this that you would lay your life down and take the punishment of sin for us. It is an extreme, indescribable love; my heart is overjoyed. You knew I would mess up, but you love me anyway. I praise you as my personal Savior, Redeemer, and friend. Thank you for being the sacrificial lamb for my sins. What an amazing gift you have given me. Forgive me for when I have not taken this gift of salvation seriously by being more consumed with what I want instead of allowing you to lead my life. I surrender to your will today. Help me to get a grip on my salvation and never let go. May I please and honor you. 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.

rest. There is something about taking the time to be with God and the community of believers, especially when we don’t feel we have a minute to spare. That time helps us renew, refresh, and reenergize our lives as we keep focus on Jesus Christ during these busy summer months. When I get quiet in worship and think about God’s deep love for me, I sometimes think of the words of the song, “I’m a thousand miles from nowhere, time don’t matter to me; I’m a thousand miles from nowhere and there’s no other place I want to be.”

It also allows me to contemplate that wherever I am, there God is also!

During these quite moments, God reminds me that all the lists, schedules, and deadlines to meet during the summer are not what life was meant to be. Life was created so that you and I could have a relationship with our Creator. A relationship that not only includes God, but our brothers and sisters in Christ as well. Somehow, that should help us to relax and renew our minds so that we can look at and take care of all the busy demands of

life with a whole new perspective. It allows us to stop a minute and give thanks to God for being Whom He tells us He is.

The greatest thing about technology in worship services today is that we can participate wherever we may be; whether on the beach, in the mountains, and maybe especially when we are at our extended family functions during the days ahead!

Don’t forget that when you are away this summer many churches are now livestreaming worship services each week through the inter-

net. So, when you can’t be at your home church, you can visit with the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Cherryville family wherever you go. Our worship service starts at 10 a.m. Then, no matter how busy, how hectic, or how challenging your summer may be, God is always present with you reminding you! Remember, it is not all on your shoulders to make the summer a success! God has a plan for you and your summer events.

But before you leave, go ahead and make plans for – Summer Time Worship!

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

REV. KEITH HUSS Pastor – Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cherryville

DANYALE PATTERSON

EVENT

From Page 1

Church parking lot I noticed a great many folks watching” with many more watching from vantage points in the downtown area as well.

Mayor Beam noted then, “It was great to see everybody come out to celebrate our Independence Day. I believe this was the largest crowd our city has entertained for the Independence celebration. I would suggest we continue at this location for future July 4th celebrations.”

Rudisill Stadium has the seating capabilities a large crowd needs Beam also noted later. Thanks go to all the sponsors and volunteers that made this year’s celebration such a great success.”

City Manager Brian Dalton said of the 2022 event at Rudisill, “I felt that the July 4th (2022) celebration was a huge success! I have had nothing but positive comments about the event and being able to have it (there)!”

Mr. Dalton also noted he appreciated “…all the City employees working hard and the vendors for helping produce a great event. We also could not be successful without the many volunteers that help!”

Mary Beth Tackett, City of Cherryville Program Coordinator and Cherryville Chamber of Commerce Director, was on record last year, saying “We are so thankful that we were still able to have this year’s festival. We want to say a huge thank you to Gaston County

Schools for partnering with us and allowing us to use Rudisill Stadium as a venue during our Streetscape construction. I would like to give a special shout out to (CHS Athletic Director) Scott Harrill for being there through the whole process and helping us out tremendously with this event. We would like to thank our sponsors, Main Street Family Care, Piedmont Lithium, FleetNet America, Hometown Direct Care, Somerset Court, (then) Gaston County Sheriff Alan and his wife, Cathy, NAPA Truck and Auto, and Wal-Mart.

“This event would not have been possible without our sponsors and of course volunteers. Our (2022) event team, made up of Gary Dellinger, Hannah Garrett, Mike Clark, Tina Clark, Allison Brewer and Emily Blackburn, were amazing as usual, and were there set up and to tear down. We had a ton of support from the City’s Pub-

Notice of Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Cherryville City Council will meet on Monday, July 10, 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 Zoning Text Amendment to Part 5, Section 5.2.3(b) of the City of Cherryville Zoning Ordinance. The nature of the proposed text amendment would be to add possible fencing material allowed as buffer/screening purposes. For more information, please contact Zoning Administrator Alex Blackburn at 704-435-1705 or at ablackburn@cityofcherryville. com

CE (6/28 & 7/5/2023)

LEGAL

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 7th of June, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of SOLOMON LEE WILLIS, 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, Beth Plotts, Executrix on or before the 28th of September, 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 28th day of June, 2023.

Beth Plotts, Executrix

Estate of: Solomon Lee Willis

51 Adudbon Dr Asheville, NC 28804

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150 CE (6/28, 7/05, 12 & 19/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GASTON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of June, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of THOMAS ARTHUR RUMFELT, 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, Brad Rumfelt, Administrator on or before the 21st of September, 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 21st day of June, 2023.

Brad Rumfelt, Administrator

Estate of: Thomas Arthur Rumfelt

624 Black Snake Road

Stanley, NC 28164

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (6/21, 28, 7/05 & 12/2023)

lic Works Department as well for this Independence Day Celebration. Those guys were there with us the whole time doing whatever needed to be done. It was a great help!

Of course, as always, thank you to the Cherryville Police Department for keeping us safe and to the Cherryville Fire Department for the amazing fireworks show!”

Cherryville Downtown Director David Day’s comments in the Eagle article on the 2022 ID4 celebration were equally thankful.

Said Mr. Day then, “I thought (the 2022) Independence celebration went extremely well, with the new locations and its challenges. The Cherryville High School athletic director, Scott Harrill, worked so well with the event leader, Mary Beth Tackett, and the festival and events team. I personally oversaw the beer garden, which was in a separate location from the festival. It was located on Hoyle Street. We were able to add the beer garden and this was a great asset to the festivities. We had so many volunteers from the community who helped make this successful in this temporary location and the experience brought huge crowds to the Cherryville festival which continued with its reputation of being one of the best in Gaston County.”

Cherryville Fire Chief Jason Wofford said of the 2022 celebration, “I am extremely thankful for all the firefighters who took the time away from family and vacations to help participate in setting off fireworks for

our July 4th (2022) celebration. It takes a great amount of work to pull this off and they have done so for 20-plus years. Special thanks go to Assistant Chief (Colby) Heffner and Captain (Nathan) Bowman for putting on a great show. Everything went well without any reports of damage. I would also like to thank the First United Methodist Church and its members for allowing us to utilize their parking lot for the fireworks.”

Assistant Fire Chief Heffner was equally excited about how it all went down last year, noting, “I believe (the 2022) fireworks were great! Everything went as planned and there were no injuries reported that I am aware of! We had great support from our members at CFD, surrounding mutual aid departments (Waco VFD, Hugh’s Pond VFD and others, Cherryville Police, GEMS and Gaston County Sheriff’s Of-

fice), Gaston County Schools, and most importantly, First United Methodist Church!

Their willingness to allow us to use their parking lot to shoot the fireworks created a safe viewing experience for all and we are very grateful for their support and cooperation. I have only heard positive comments from numerous citizens and city employees about the event. We are proud to serve in this capacity for the City of Cherryville and we look forward to always providing a safe, and enjoyable, fireworks display for the citizens and visitors of Cherryville!”

Captain Bowman echoed AFC Heffner’s sentiments, adding briefly, “I heard a lot of good things about the (2022) fireworks and celebration. I believe this year with the help of Waco, Hugh’s Pond, and Tryonota Fire Departments, it has helped our department grow closer

together and strengthen our bonds with each other. We look forward to serving the city and celebrating our freedom for many years to come. We especially want to thank each and every veteran that has served, is serving, and that will serve, our great nation in the future.”

Then-Cherryville Police Chief Cam Jenks said the city workers did an excellent job, as did the men and women of the Cherryville Police Department and other attending law enforcement agencies who assisted that night, in making sure it was a safe and great celebration for the City of Cherryville.

For more information on future Cherryville events, go to the City of Cherryville’s website at www.cityofcherryville.com or the Chamber’s web site at https://www. cityofcherryville.com/chamber-of-commerce.

The crowd at the July 1, 2022 Independence Day festivities got to the new venue early in order to get good seats in front of the band and also to see the amazing fireworks show!

Members of the Cherryville Fire Department setting up the fireworks just prior to the start of the Cherryville 2022 Independence Day celebration. (photo provided by the CFD)

Throw in a little red, white and blue and it’s a PARTY – a “pyro party”; one enjoyed by all at the July 1, 2022 Cherryville Independence Day fireworks event, held at Rudisill Stadium.

Post 100 currently 8-10 overall; 2-4 in the Western Division

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The Cherryville Post 100 American Legion men took on visiting Post 48, Hickory on Friday, June 23 at Cherryville Memorial Stadium/ Fraley Field, defeating the Post 48 club by a score of 6-1. The winning pitcher in this one was Joseph Webb, who went five innings and struck out eight Hickory batters and walking one.

2023 CHS grad and Ironmen baseball player Will Fowler had a great at-bats as he was 3-3 on the night in this game. Fowler had two (2) walks; a double; and reached second, and third, and came home on a couple of Hickory throwing errors. Will also had an RBI.

Kanon Willis, scored on a wild pitch and Colton Mayes walked; had a base hit (a double), and an RBI; while Reid Stroupe, who was the catcher for the 2A NCHSAA State champion Burns Bulldogs, was 1-3, while also doing a stellar job behind the plate for Coach Bob Reynolds’ Post 100 men.

CHS Ironmen baseball product Eli Newsome came in and pitched an inning, striking out two. He was followed by his Ironmen teammate, Kanon Willis, who also pitched one inning, also striking out two batters.

Hitters for the Post 100 squad were Jacob Hamrick, who was 1-3 and scored on a wild pitch; Zane Brockman, who was 1-3, with an RBI; Ethan Guy (1-3); Ashton Pope (walked);

The postponed Wednesday, June 21 game (Cherryville at Rutherford), will be played Tuesday, June 27,

while the postponed Thursday, June 22 Burke at Cherryville game will be played on Wednesday, June 28.

On Friday, June 30 there will be an Area IV pairings meeting at 2 p.m. at Cherryville, and the Area IV playoffs schedule is: First round (July 1-5, best of 5); Quarterfinals (July 6-11, best of 5); Semifinals (July 12-19, best of 7); and Final (July 20-22, 1 game or best of 3).

Coach Stan Haynes’ Juniors are currently 4-3 in the Western Division.

The Cherryville at Burns Juniors game (suspended to June 26 with Burns leading 2-0 in 2nd inning) with Burns

at Cherryville. On Sunday, June 25, R-S Central was at Cherryville to take on the Juniors, and on Tuesday, June 27, Belmont was at Cherryville. On Wednesday, June 28, the Cherryville Junior Legion men were at Dallas

The Junior Legion’s Playoffs (all a “best-of-3”), are as follows: Quarterfinals July 1-4; Semifinals July 5-8; and Finals July 9-12.

(Additional information and stats by Danny Eaker and Susan L. Powell)

Post 100 Assistant Coach Drew Reynolds watches Joseph Webb warm up before the game last Friday. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Post 100 first baseman Will Fowler got the throw and the Hickory runner out.

Cherryville pitcher, Joseph Webb, is all concentration as he gets set to deliver the heat to the plate in last week’s American Legion Post 100 game at Fraley Field.

Cherryville batter Jacob Hamrick watches the pitch like a hawk, knowing it is slamming into the dust at the catcher’s feet.

Pitcher Joseph Webb hurls one toward the plate as the Hickory player and Post 100’s Will Fowler look on.

Post 100 head coach Bob Reynolds has a mound conference to settle his men down and make sure everyone is on the same page, play-wise.

Ashton Pope, playing second base, watches to see which way the ball is going to be hit. Pope, like all the Post 100 infield and outfield players, is ready for anything when on the field.

A wide shot of the pitching action on last week’s game pitting Post 100 against Post 48. Post 100 won by a score of 6-1.

TRAIN-

ING. Now taking applications. $15.00 per hour. 828-755-7335.

ELECTRICAL HELPER PO-

SITION. Cleveland Electrical Contractors is seeking to hire full-time electrical helper. Experience is preferred, but not required. Eagerness to learn, ability to work with others, and work under supervision. Seeking someone dependable, with integrity and professionalism. Willing to provide training for someone who is interested in the field of electrical work. Call 704.487.5755 to schedule an interview. clevelandelectrical.nc@gmail.com

NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-

ERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR

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

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

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

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

J’S LANDSCAPING & MORE. Tree cutting, haul off junk, lot clearing, grass & limb cutting, construction. Call anytime 828744-2920.

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

J & W LAWN CARE. Mowing, trimming,

FOR SALE

LIVESTOCK TRAILER. $1275

Tandem axle trailer, 2 inch ball. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828980-0853, 704-476-9383.

KNOBBY VISITED ... Visit www.Knobby.info to see a photo - NC4Ever@USA.com

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

EVEN 60 Clear Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete”

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

ITEMS FOR SALE. Winchester

12 Ga.-Model 1300 Definder, Martin Sigma Guitar-1970, Ruger Blackhawk Single-Six-22 Pistol and 4 Michelin TiresP265/70R16. 704-473-5455 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 TRAILERS, TRAILERS! DUMP TRAILERS, GOOSENECK, DECK OVER, EQUIPMENT, ALL PURPOSE TRAILERS,

BOATS

2016 BAYLINER. 60 HP Mercury, In excellent condition. Sun top and cover $12,000 OBO. 704-692-3545

cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, concrete, excavator work. 828-453-8113.

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

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

RAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup 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.

HANDYMAN LAWNCARE.

CHEAPER TODAY THAN YESTERDAY. Cut, Seed, Lawn Aeration, Plant Grass, Bushhogging, Driveway Grading. 704-297-1326, 980-291-2357.

Cash Only.

SURGE PRESSURE WASHING, INC. House washing starting @$99. surgepwinc. com (704) 284-9292

LESSONS

READING ROCKS. I can help your child improve his reading and take the feeling of fear when it comes to reading and make it a thing of the past. Your child will enjoy reading again and experience the world through words. I am a Certified English Teacher from North Carolina. My fee is $20.00 per hour online and $40.00 for private sessions. The parent, guardian, or authorized caregiver must be in attendance during one on one lessons. Payment is done through the cash app., with no personal checks. I have worked with atrisk students and will have a form to fill out so I can design a lesson plan for your student. (828) 755-5340 jakesnoop20@ outlook.com

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE/ YARD SALE, July 1st, 7am12pm. Items going for CHEAP. Follow signs to the garage if it rains. 1622 Lithia Springs Rd., Shelby, NC 28150

2 FAMILY YARD SALE. Sat., July 1st, 7am-12pm. Lots of little girls clothes size 4T-5T, shoes size 12. Women’s clothes size 16 and 22 and smaller. Variety of other items. 1341 Union Church Road, Lawndale, NC 28090

POLK’IN AROUND ANTIQUES/COLLECTIBLES. Booths are available for rent. Mon-Sat., 10am-5 pm. 704312-6113. 4133 Polkville Rd, Shelby, NC 28150

FOR SALE

PLANTS FOR SALE. Hos-

ta-over 20 varieties, Daylily, Iris, Yellowbells, Crape Myrtle, Weeping Cherry Trees. 206 Woodburn Drive, Forest City. 828-245-0245.

PROPANE TANK 100 LBS, USED. I have a used 100lbs propane tank, that is full of propane. Can send pictures by Phone (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

SIDING EQUIPMENT. Tapco 10’ 6”. Bender with Stand & Coil

Holder. Walk Boards (2) 24’, (1) 16’. (4) Ladder Jacks and (4) Ladder Stabilizers. Fiberglass Ladders, (4) 8’, (2) 16’, (2) 24’. Aluminum Ladders, (1) 40’. Delta 8” Sawbuck Frame and Trim

Saw. (704) 473-4931

CO2 TANK 20LBS. Have 2, $150 I have two co2 tanks, one is full and the other is 1/3. Can send pictures by phone. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

MEN’S CRUISER BICYCLE. New $75. Men’s used cruiser bicycle $35. Must sell. 828782-7221.

SELF PLAYING PIANO

ROLLS. 29 rolls available, still in boxes. Will sell seperate. $10/piece. Call: 704-734-0650.

TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

MOVING SALE. ROCKER RE-

CLINER LIFT CHAIR, $200 ; Recliner lift chair, $300; Recliner lift chair, $100. Bookcase, $50; Antique China Cabinet and Buffet $500. Prices may be negotiable. Must sell quick. Please call (704) 418-3799

4” DREDGE, THREE STAGE SLUICE with air, $2,000. Price negotiable. Call 704-418-9331

ELECTRIC RECLINING

LEATHER COUCH AND LOVESEAT. Reclining head rest and reclining seats. USB ports both couch and loveseat. Thick leather. Color gray. Have receipt. $3,000 firm. 704-4666370.

TOYOTA SET OF FACTORY TIRES. 2019 Toyota Tacoma Factory Tires, P245/75R16-Hankook, 11,000 miles. Black wheel covers and lugs included. $400. (704) 6920385

GOLD DREDGES: 2” Proline $2,000. 4” Keene Triple Sluce w/air $3,500. 6” Keene Triple Sluce w/air $5,000. Trailer $1,000. 304-483-5015, 304483-7658.

SWEET POTATO PLANTS. Also have vegetables for sale. Lewis Farms, 5120 Fallston Rd., 1/2 mile north of Fallston on Hwy 18. (704) 472-0940

6 FOOT BOX BLADE: 5 shank, brand new. $950. Also plate compactor, $350. 828289-1817.

USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/ SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. Keep it dry and safe! 828-980-0788 or 828286-8674.

KNOBBY LAST VISITED YOUR HOME. Fun Locally

Designed Refrigerator Magnet

Don’t Wait! Email for details and to see a pic NC4Ever@ USA.com

GLASS DISPLAY CABINETS. I have two glass display cabinets. Can send picture by phone (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

Rubber Seal Lights” Tool Box & More! $12,900 OR No Credit Check Rent to Own. From $639 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895 BOAT & RV COVERS-WE INSTALL. 14 on Site that you can look at and touch! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

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

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE! “Must Have Title” J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

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

OLD GAMBLING MACHINE. Would make a good man cave piece. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 704-477-4766. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

WANT TO BUY

LOOKING FOR A GOOD USED 5 FOOT BUSHHOG. (704) 538-1436

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? I PURCHASE UN-

WANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

WANT TO BUY: STAMP COLLECTIONS and accumulations of same. Call 828-652-9425 or cell 954-614-2562.

WANT TO BUY. ATV’s, PopUp Campers and Small Travel Trailers. Call 828-429-3935. CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704692-6767, (704) 487-0228

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

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK FREE MIXED BREED PUPPY 3 Months old. Free to a good home. 828-287-9456.

10 CHICKENS. 2 roosters, 4 hens, 4 chicks. $140 for all or $15 each. 704-273-8105. WHITE LABRADOR PUPPIES. AKC Registered Champion Blood Line White Labrador Puppies available. Mom and Dad on site. 8 pups available. Place orders now. $1,000 each. 704-473-4299.

GERMAN SHEPHERDS PUPPIES. Out of the old time large boned dogs. Seeing and believing their size. Delivery may be possible. If no answer, leave message. 828-208-1004.

HALF BASSET HOUND PUPS. Ready for new home, 4 males, 3 females, rehoming fee $25 each. 828-289-1258.

TOY POODLE PUPPIES. CKC registered. Males only, $400. (704) 477-6762

MINI LONG HAIRED DACHSHUNDS. Male & female, white, black & tan. 6 weeks old. 1st shots & wormed. (704) 300-7225 HAVE UNWANTED HORSE OR PONY? We will provide a loving home. Grandson needs new pet. 704-466-6983.

10 WEEK OLD CHIHUAHUA PUPPY. 1 male. $350. Call or text 704-466-6983.

AKC REGISTERED LABRA-

WE’VE GOT THE KNIVES &COINS! Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-6006996 (980) 295-5568

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

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER

TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

WANT TO BUY CARS, TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006

FARM & GARDEN

NEED SOMEONE TO CUT HAY. 1/2 for you, 1/2 for me. Mt. Vernon area, Rutherford County, next to airport. 828287-0053.

NEEDED HANDYMAN OR WOMAN that drive and handle a wheelchair. Also want to buy a used utility vehicle. Call 828248-2184.

DOR RETRIEVER PUPPIES. Ready to go. Have had 1st & 2nd shots/wormed. Yellow & Black $500. Call or text 828429-0210. FREE KITTENS. Free kittens to a good home. Please call after 4:00 pm or text any time. (828) 201-3861

WINSTON CIGARETTES

ELECTRIC CLOCK. Call or text: (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

SHANIA TWAIN “QUEEN OF ME” Tour concert tickets for sale. 2 tickets. Venue: PNC Music Center, June 28th. Seats: 02, Row U, Seats 29 & 30, $400 per ticket. 704-466-2414

MAKE HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY. RENT TO OWN Mobile Home, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, in Rutherfordton, NC, $49,999 (828) 544-0900

WOOD FLOOR SANDING EQUIPMENT, EVERYTHING. Best Offer! Well kept, top of the line, all you will need to sand & finish beautiful wood floors. (828) 342-2461 mike.crowell49@gmail.com

6588 INTERNATIONAL 4WD TRACTOR. 177 Horsepower with Turbo. Price Reduced to $19,500 for quick sell! Call 704487-6929 or 704-689-6042

TO PLACE AN AD

GIVE US A CALL TO PLACE AN AD OR GO TO CAROLINACLASSIFIEDS.COM

704-484-1047

YORKIE PUPPIES. I have some beautiful yorkie puppies for sale. They were born 5/3/23 and are currently 6wks old. They will be ready to go 6/23-24th. Tails are docked, will have 1st set of shots, will have CKC paperwork, and come with a puppy pack. (252) 432-4136

AKC/CKC REGISTERED BOXER PUPPIES. Total price $350 READY TO GO! 3rd shots and 3rd deworming. Call/txt for more info 1/M 2/F Location: Shelby, NC (704) 477-3900 wbmanning33@gmail.com

Cherryville Sports Locker up and running as of May 1

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

The Cherryville Sports Locker is, according to CHS officials, now up and running as of May 1, 2023.

In a handout to the Eagle, Coach Matt Powers noted the CHS Sports Locker is a community project done by the CHS Student Leadership and Community Involvement class.

As per the flier Mr. Powers handed out, any drop-offs of items and equipment can be done during school hours when school resumes in the fall, if that is when the individual or family chooses to drop off said items.

The items can be dropped off at the following places:

CHS; Cherryville Elementary; W. Blaine Beam Intermediate; John Chavis Middle School; Cherryville Fire Dept.; the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce; Houser Drug; or Nehas.

On the flier ways people

LOCKWOOD

From Page 1 and, whenever possible, going to events and representing the department.

“It is an awesome responsibility and honor that I am overwhelmed about,” she noted.

Lockwood noted that anyone who has served in

BOTTLEWORKS

From Page 1 Mountain. Henry Summit, a businessman in Cherryville starting in the early 1850s, is Chiswell’s 3-times great-grandfather.”

She wrote further about the donor that, “…David Blakely Chiswell is a North Carolina native, born in Southern Pines, N.C.; the son of Alfred G. Chiswell, Sr. of Southern Pines and Pauline Witherspoon, born and raised in Cherryville, and daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Moses Leander Witherspoon. David Chiswell takes his middle name from his great-grandmother, Blakely-Summit.

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can help by donating sports equipment and apparel are by donating sports balls (in good condition); all sports clothing and helmet(s); any sport’s shoes (in all brands and sizes) that are used in a particular school-type sport; and any/all sports equipment that is obviously sports-related.

For those who don’t have any sports equipment they can donate, Powers noted the group/locker accepts monetary donations as well.

Those can be made to any of the Cherryville school offices during business or school hours, or to the Chamber of Commerce, located at 220 E. Main St., Cherryville, NC, 28021 (if mailing donations).

Said Coach Powers, “We greatly appreciate any donations made.”

If there are any further questions, please feel free to contact CHS during normal operational or school hours at (704) 836-9605.

the military, or is currently serving, or has a family member that served or is serving and is interested in becoming a member of the Cherryville Post 100 American Legion can contact them at (704) 435-3794, or speak with any member of the Post 100 or Unit 100 Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion family.

“Chiswell moved from Cary to West Jefferson after his retirement from the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, where he worked as an archivist. An avid history buff, Chiswell has participated in several archaeological digs in North Carolina, is a collector of history books, old bottles, and anything else that catches his eye. He is on the board of trustees for the Museum of Ashe County History and the Ashe County Friends of the Library.

“Chiswell provides the research for his sister, Janet Pittard’s writing projects and is co-author with her of The Ashe County Frescoes of Benjamin F. Long IV.”

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SPEECHES

From Page 1 are. Thank you for giving me principle. Layne, Kaci, Jami, you are the three best friends a dude could ask for. The only reason I’m here is because of y’all.

“Today, there is something in the air. There’s a solemn feeling like a part of us has died. But this is not a funeral. Nothing has truly died. We are a group at this moment. A voice that needs to be heard. That voice is singular. That voice is what drives us into tomorrow. That voice is what drives us to be ourselves in this moment.

“And the voice says, ‘This world is screwed.’ The world we live in constantly pits us against one another. Whether it be socially, politically, metaphorically, everyone of us has had a conflict that was not created by anything but groupthink. Do not let a group of numbers dictate your happiness. Do not kill with the ones you disagree with. Do not get eaten by the giants of the modern world. Do not be anything but authentically yourself.

“I implore my fellow graduates, and members of the audience: do not let this world overtake you. Do not let the illusion of choice take away from your thoughts. Go with yourself. Don’t let a group decide who you are. Decide for yourself. Use that voice.

“To use my voice, I wrote a poem. ‘A lone tree stands

out, Breathing in the winds of today. A zephyr blows on, Bringing in tomorrow’s fruit. Tomorrow waited on us.’

“Thank you for the opportunity. I’m so glad to have lived so closely with all of you. And it’s all just crazy.”

Rileigh Kiser’s 2023 CHS Salutatorian speech:

“Hello, my name is Rileigh Kiser and I am proud to present this speech tonight. Cherryville High School Class of 2023; not only am I honored to stand before you today as your Salutatorian but I am also honored to have seen you as my friends for the past thirteen years. We laughed and made the best memories together, but we also persevered through serious hardship. I want to thank you all first and foremost for allowing me to grow into the person I am today alongside you. Next, I would like to thank our excellent CHS staff. Each and every one of you have played such an essential role in the stories of our success. We see and appreciate how hard you work to help us and what you do to keep us safe. Thank you, parents, guardians, grandparents, and family members. Without your support and dedication, we would not be half the people we are today. And of course, thank you, God. Every accomplishment and award is because of You and You deserve all the glory today and every day. Cherryville High School Class of 2023, I challenge you today, with this simple yet difficult task as you embrace your future. Don’t miss out on the

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small moments that will pass you by while you are waiting for the big one to come. I am going to be honest with you, I am guilty of overlooking the small moments. I wish and worry away my life thinking, what is the next big life marker I can make it to, and how fast can I get there? I found myself longing for the day I could walk into middle school for the first time. Then it was high school. When I wasn’t satisfied, I pushed to get my driver’s license. Then soon after it was applying to college. It seemed like a race. But a race against what? My classmates? Time? Everyone else’s expectations of me? I soon found myself focusing on only these big milestones, forcing me to miss some of the small details that make our lives unique and special. As my classmates, but more importantly my friends, I want to remind you that the small things can end up being the best things in life. I would never say no to a scoop of ice cream or a late-night drive. Instead of waiting for the big things to come and rush past you, live your life in the present. Living for the big moments will only allow you to search aimlessly for your next milestone, leaving you unsatisfied with your life. The future looks different for all of us. Some will leave for college and meet new people and adjust to a new place, others will join the military and serve their country bravely, while others will enter the workforce and push through the challenges that they will come to face.

While we are all different in these ways, the one thing that brings us together is the fact that we are the future. We are the leaders, we are the fixers, we are the problem solvers. As you go out into the world and prove that you are responsible, mature, and capable, remember all the small moments that made you who you are today. Moments that taught you life lessons, including teamwork, patience, persistence, and compassion. These qualities are going to take you much farther than what brand of shoes you have on or what grades you made. We grew up. I’m going to let that one sink in. We grew up. All the big and small moments throughout our childhood have led up to this day. Graduation. In the blink of an eye, we have grown up. So, Class of 2023, as you continue to grow up and turn to the next page in your book of life I hope you continue to remember to cherish the big moments and especially the small ones.

“I am going to leave you with a quote from Taylor Swift, ‘Hard things will happen to us. We will recover, we will learn from it, we will grow more resilient because of it. And as long as we are fortunate enough to be breathing, we will breathe in, breathe through, breathe deep, and breathe out.’ also, ‘It’s been a long time coming’.

“Congratulations, Class of 2023, I am endlessly proud of each and every one of you for everything you have accomplished this year. We did it!”

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Cherryville resident Monica Lockwood at the swearing in ceremony in Raleigh on June 10. She was sworn in by Gaither Keener, judge advocate of the American Legion Dept. of N.C., In Raleigh. (photo provided)

Gaston County FAST team arrests man in Cherryville

Suspect wanted on Federal drug trafficking crimes

On Thursday, June 22, 2023, Fugitive Apprehension and Suspect Tracking (FAST) team members from the Cherryville Police Department and Gaston County Police Department located Bryan Torres in the area of Shelby Highway in Cherryville. Torres was wanted on multiple federal arrest warrants to include distribution of fentanyl, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

BRYAN TORRES

Torres was arrested without incident thanks to the collaborative effort between Cherryville and County Police FAST team members, according to a media release.

Two NC election integrity bills pass in the Senate

Torres charges were a result of a joint investigation between the Gaston County Police Department, the Cherryville Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations.

Gaston County Police Chief Stephen Zill said, “This successful investigation and apprehension represents the power of partnerships and should send a clear message of our resolute commitment to combatting drug trafficking in Gaston County.”

Torres is being held at the Gaston County Jail without a bond. There is no further information to be released at this time.

NC Senate wants more say in appointment power

by ALEX BALTZEGAR Carolina Journal

A bill before the North Carolina Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday would “bring muchneeded balance and accountability to unelected boards and commissions,” according to a press release from Senate Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham.

Republicans have a supermajority in the state senate and what has been coined a “working supermajority” in the state House. House Republicans only need one Democrat to vote with them on a given bill for a supermajority.

A supermajority is a term meaning one party has a coalition of votes to override a governor’s veto. In North Carolina, three-fifths of legislators are required to vote for an override, which is 72 out of 120 House members and 30 out of 50 Senate members.

Three forces combine to allow Cooper very little, if any, say in policy outcomes this year: the House’s “working supermajority,” the Senate’s supermajority, and Cooper signing a Medicaid expansion bill that is tethered to the passage of a state budget.

“These boards have independent functions outside of the legislative and executive branches and have significant rulemaking duties that impact state government,” said the press release. “Yet they lack a diversity of thought that represents the state as a whole since all or a large majority of members are hand-picked by the Governor or serve in his administration. The rules and policies these boards and commissions make have a significant impact on the lives of North Carolinians, but there is little recourse for citizens to hold the boards accountable.”

Senate Bill 512 broadens the appointment authorities for membership between the executive branch – including members of the Council of State – and the General Assembly.

“These boards and commissions are charged with overseeing areas of state government that have a tremendous impact

on our daily lives,” said Berger. “By balancing the membership of these unelected boards, we’re increasing the viewpoints on the boards by diversifying the appointing authorities.”

The nine boards and commissions are: The Utilities Commission; The Economic Investment Committee; The Environmental Management Commission; The Commission for Public Health; The Board of Transportation; The Coastal Resources Commission; The Wildlife Resources Commission; The N.C. Railroad Board of Directors; and The UNC Health Care Board of Directors.

“North Carolinians expect their elected officials to represent their interests and hold decision-makers accountable for their actions,” said Daniel. “We cannot do that for these boards and commissions if the General Assembly and other elected officials don’t have a more considerable role in appointing members.”

Sen. Bill Rabon, R-Brunswick, listens as Sen. Warren Daniel, R-Burke, describes a bill in committee.

Appointments made by the General Assembly are voted on by the 170 members of the House of Representatives and the Senate, while most gubernatorial appointments are approved by one person –the governor.

“Balancing the appointments on these boards is good for all North Carolinians,” said Rabon. “Including the General Assembly and Council of State offices in the process will broaden the field of qualified candidates to fill these positions.”

According to the press release, the governor makes appointments to more than 350 boards and commissions, and the governor makes over 600 appointments that expire each year.

No current appointees would have their terms cut short by this proposal.

Per the press release, the changes to the boards and commissions membership are as follows:

Utilities Commission: Adds two members and changes the appointment authority mix. The membership would be com-

by THERESA OPEKA and ALEX BALTZEGAR Carolina Journal

A pair of election integrity bills passed Thursday, June 22, in the North Carolina Senate. S.B. 747, Election Law Changes, and S.B. 749, No Partisan Advantage in Elections, both passed with a vote of 28-19. The bills will help strengthen election laws and make state and local elections boards bipartisan.

“Elections are invaluable to our state and country, and it’s troubling that when given the chance to end the political imbalance on our elections board, Senate Democrats refused to do so,” said Senate Redistricting and Elections Committee chairman Sen. Paul Newton, R-Cabarrus, in a press release. “These two bills take bold steps to make certain that North Carolina’s elections are free from political interference and devoid of any mischief.”

ren Daniel, R-Burke, in a news release. “With the approval of Senate Bills 747 and 749, Senate Republicans are removing political gamesmanship from election administration and putting integrity above all.”

CURRENT LAW

Currently, three out of five members of the NCSBE are allowed to be from the same political party, allowing partisan decisions to be made.

Additionally, all appointments are currently made by the governor from a list of nominations submitted by parties.

For local boards, the NCSBE “appoints four members – two Democrats and two Republicans – to each county board of elections,” according to the NCSBE website. “The state chairs of the Republican and Democratic parties recommend three registered voters to the State Board.”

Furthermore, the board has complete authority over the executive director, and the director cannot make independent decisions. The bill also establishes Election Day as the deadline for accepting absentee ballots, prohibits boards of elections from accepting third-party donations, and addresses the loophole of having new voters cast a ballot before their address is verified. It also launches a pilot program for select counties to use signature verification software for absentee ballots and implements a process for rooting out any non-citizens from voter rolls.

OPPOSITION

House Minority Leader Robert Reives, D-Chatham, who would gain appointment power if S.B. 749 passes, said he opposes the bill.

prised of four appointees from the General Assembly, four appointees from the Governor, and one appointee from the State Treasurer. The Utilities Commission would also move from the Department of Commerce to the State Treasurer’s office. The Governor will continue to appoint the chair. Currently, the seven members of the board are all appointed by the Governor.

Economic Investment Committee: Adds two members. The membership would be comprised of the Secretary of Commerce, Secretary of Revenue, State Budget Director, two appointees from the General Assembly, the Speaker of the House or his designee, and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate or his designee. Currently, there are only five members.

Environmental Management Commission: Changes the appointment authority mix. The Governor would appoint seven members, the General Assembly would appoint six members, and the Agriculture Commissioner would appoint two members. Currently, the Governor appoints nine members, and the General Assembly appoints six.

Commission for Public Health: Changes the appointment authority mix. The Governor would appoint five members, the General Assembly would appoint four, and the N.C. Medical Society would elect four members. Currently, the Governor appoints nine members and the N.C. Medical Society elects four members.

Board of Transportation: Changes the appointment structure. The General Assembly would appoint 14 members representing the 14 highway divisions, the Governor would appoint six at-large members, and the Secretary of Transportation would serve as a non-voting member. Currently, the Governor appoints 14 members representing the 14 highway divisions, the General Assembly appoints six at-large members, and the Secretary of Transportation serves as a non-voting member.

Coastal Resources Commission: Changes the appointment author-

S.B. 749 restructures the North Carolina State Board of Elections by splitting the appointments between the majority and minority legislative leaders.

The NCSBE would be composed of four majority and four minority party appointments. All would come from the legislature, with the following allocation:

• Two members appointed by the president pro tempore of the Senate.

• Two members appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives.

• Two members appointed by the minority leader of the Senate.

• Two members appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives.

Local election boards would be appointed in a similar fashion, but with only one appointment per legislative leader instead of two. Local boards would only consist of four members as opposed to eight.

Unaffiliated voters will also be able to serve on the board, which is a change from current law.

A recent poll from the John Locke Foundation found that only 50 percent of North Carolinians think future elections will be free and fair.

“Keeping partisanship from swaying the management of our elections is something both parties should get behind, but today’s vote shows that Democrats don’t care about election integrity,” said Senate Redistricting and Elections Committee chairman Sen. War-

ity mix. The General Assembly would appoint six members, the Governor would appoint six members, and the Insurance Commissioner would appoint one member. Currently, the Governor appoints nine members, and the General Assembly appoints four.

Wildlife Resources Commission: Changes the appointment authority mix and adds two new members. The General Assembly would appoint 10 members, the Governor would appoint 10 members, and the Agriculture Commissioner would appoint one member. Currently, the Governor appoints 11 members, and the General Assembly appoints eight.

N.C. Railroad Board of Directors: Changes

The NCSBE chooses two of the three recommendations by party chairs, and the governor chooses the fifth and final appointee, which will be the deciding vote on partisan issues.

Under the current law, when North Carolina has a Democratic governor, Democrats have the ability to exert control over all boards of elections, including local boards in Republican counties.

Similarly, when the governor of North Carolina is a Republican, Republicans have the authority to control all boards of elections, even in counties that predominantly lean Democratic.

The proposed Senate plan alters the existing framework by establishing mandatory bipartisan boards at both the state and county levels.

Under S.B. 747, board decisions are required to be bipartisan. On local boards, a decision would require agreement from at least three out of the four members. On the state board, at least five out of the eight members would need to reach a consensus for a decision to be made.

If bipartisanship cannot be achieved, it could lead to gridlock. There is currently no process for decision-making in gridlock scenarios.

If the board fails to reach a decision on the appointment of an executive director or chair within 30 days, the responsibility falls upon the General Assembly to make the selection. However, it is important to note that the chair must be chosen from among the four existing board members and does not possess tie-breaking authority.

the appointment authority mix. The General Assembly would appoint six members, the Governor would appoint six members, and the State Treasurer would appoint one member. Currently, the Governor appoints seven members, and the General Assembly appoints six.

UNC Health Care Board of Directors: Changes the appointment authority mix and the number of administrators on the board. The board would be comprised of the UNC System President or his designee, the CEO of UNC Health Care, the UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor, the President of UNC Hospitals, 12 members appointed by the Board of Governors, and eight members appointed by the General

“Republican leadership in the General Assembly has once again introduced legislation to claw powers away from the governor and into their own hands,” Reives said. “S.B. 749 would, by design, lead to gridlock on elections boards and empower Republican-led courts to settle disputes.”

North Carolina Democratic Party Chairwoman Anderson Clayton released a statement in opposition to the bill after Republicans introduced it at a press conference.

“When the voters elected Governor Cooper twice, they did so with the expectation and desire that he would be making appointments to the Board of Elections – but we know the NCGOP’s playbook is to just change the rules instead of trying to win fair and square on the strength of their ideas,” Clayton said.

Senate leader Phil Berger said that House leadership supports the appointment power changes to the NCSBE, but they have differing opinions regarding appointments to the local boards.

Berger expects the two chambers will be able to work out those differences.

If the bill is passed and Cooper vetoes it, which he is expected to do, all Republicans would need to be present or vote in favor of overriding Cooper’s veto if the legislation does not receive any Democratic support.

The bills now head to the House for consideration.

(Alex Baltzegar contributed to this report.)

Assembly. Currently, the board is comprised of the UNC System President, the CEO of UNC Health Care, the UNCChapel Hill Chancellor, the UNC-Chapel Hill Administrative Officer, the President of UNC Hospitals, the President of the UNC Faculty Physicians, two members of the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine Faculty, 12 members appointed by the Board of Governors and four appointed by the Board of Directors.

Three boards – the Environmental Management Commission, the Board of Transportation, and the Coastal Resources Commission – would elect their board chairs instead of having the Governor appoint the chair.