Cherryville Eagle 7-13-23

Independence Day celebration at Rudisill Stadium always a fan favorite

2023 holiday celebration; fireworks even better than last year’s, according to Mayor, city staff and officials and attendees

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Having this years’ Independence Day celebration at Rudisill Stadium again turned out to be another fan favorite, according to Mayor H.L. Beam, III, and city council members, staff, and the fans of the fireworks-laden holiday. On top of all that, many of the families that came to the

be able to, once again, have room for the kids and all to just be kids.

The fireworks displays were – as always – astounding, as the night sky lit up with the handiwork of the pyrotechnic know-how of the Cherryville Fire Department, led by Assistant Chief Colby Heffner and Capt. Nathan Bowman, Capt. Trent “Bam Bam” Rayfield, Driver/Engineer Doyle Brown, and all the amazing crew of the CFD smoke eaters. And to make things even better, it was reported by members of the CFD crew that two of their members got engaged at the fireworks show – Will Greenway, a second-generation firefighter and his sweet-

heart, Lauren Dunivan, who is also a firefighter.

Cherryville ID4 festival coordinator and director and Mary Beth Tackett said while at the Chamber of

Commerce’s tent up by the fieldhouse at Rudisill, that she is always glad when things come together so well for events the size of the 4th of July festival.

“It is one of the city’s biggest, so, yeah, it’s good to see things we’ve all worked so hard on come together like this and see people come out and have fun,”

she noted.

Mayor Beam also was very happy to see everyone come out and said as much when he took the stage See CELEBRATION, Page 12

“Fuzzy Cow” yogurt shop now open in downtown Cherryville

Come on in, get a cool treat and beat the heat while chilling out!

by MICHAEL E. POWELL Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Kari Thurber and Carson Heafner’s frozen yogurt shop, The Fuzzy Cow, is officially open to do (sweet) business in Downtown Cherryville. It is another indication that Cherryville’s revitalized downtown is not only growing but attracting people and thriving all at the same time.

Thurber, originally from Maryland, said she and Heafner – a Newton, NC native – were looking at business ideas they could get involved with as a couple and eventually came upon frozen yogurt as a just the thing.

The shop also has bubble teas, milk shakes, and a host of fantastic toppings to go on the frozen yogurt.

frozen yogurt idea, in general, was mainly his idea,” said Thurber.

The couple live in Belwood at their aptly-named Belwood Ranch, where they and an assortment of large fuzzy cattle, a mix of Highland cows, or “coos”, as they say in Scotland, about five Angus cows, and a few White Parks, along with an assortment of other farm-type critters and such enjoy life at a bit of a slower pace. Thurber went over a couple of the names of the cows, most of which were given them by Thurber’s and Heafner’s daughters, Sydney, Savannah, Kara, and Abigail. The shop came about thanks to one cow in particular, named Debra, who wound up as the inspiration for the colorful logo for the shop. The shop’s logo was done by Raleigh artist Elisabeth Farnsworth, said Thurber.

BESSEMER CITY, N.C.

– Multiple Gaston County fire departments and the Gaston County Office of Emergency Management and Fire Services are responded quickly to a three-alarm fire, June 26, at the Livent Lithium Processing Plant in Bessemer City. According to a report from the county’s OEMFS,

“It is our first venture into business together. The

Thurber is a trained Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, was a stay-at-home mom, but has always done See COW, Page 2

NC Senate Republicans unveil plan to make Board of Elections bipartisan

by ALEX BALTZEGAR Carolina Journal

On Monday, June 10, Senate Republicans unveiled a plan to make the North Carolina state and local elections boards bipartisan.

Senate Bill 749, No Partisan Advantage in Elections, restructures the North Carolina State Board of Elections by splitting the appointments between the majority and minority legislative leaders.

The State Board of Elections (NCSBE) would be composed of four majority and four minority party appointments. All would come from the legislature, with the See PLAN, Page 11

A wide shot of the June 30, 2023 Independence Day celebration from the Rudisill Stadium stands just as things got under way. (photo by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media and Susan L. Powell)

Kari Thurber, co-owner and operator of The Fuzzy Cow Yogurt Shop in Downtown Cherryville, stands ready to prepare any sweet frozen yogurt treat your heart desires.

(photo by MEP/The Eagle or provided)

Senate Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, speaks to reporters at a press conference while introducing S.B. 749. (photo provided)

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

6-24: Hannah Maelee Woods, 26, 809 Self St., Cherryville, was arrested at 2505 Lincolnton Hwy., Cherryville, by GCPD officers on one count each of larceny-other and stolen property.

6-28: Kelly Wayne Webb, 43, 410 N. Cherry St., Cherryville; felony larceny of a motor vehicle and felony obtaining property by false pretenses. $3,000 secured bond.

6-30: Daron Quashawn Wright, 30, 1910 Petty Rd., Shelby; one count felony attempting to obtain property by false pretenses. $2,500 secured bond.

7-1: Christopher Dean Beam, 47, 106 Lariat Ln., Lawndale; one count each misdemeanor DWLR (not impaired); fictitious info to officer; and displaying fictitious registration plate. $5,000 secured bond.

7-2: Christopher Dean Beam, 48, 106 Lariat Ln., Cherryville, was arrested at 425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, by GCSO deputies on one count of an “all other” incident.

INCIDENTS

6-26: Greensboro man and woman w/no known address report a man and woman listed as living on the streets of Gaston County attempted to break into and enter a vacant structure at 518 S. Mulberry, in Cherryville. Case status is active and under further investigation.

6-27: City of Cherryville and a Cherryville man report listed suspect tampering w/ city-owned water meter valued at $250. Case listed as inactive.

6-27: GCPD officers report closing/clearing by arrest a drug equipment violation at Black Rd., and Requa Rd., Cherryville.

6-28: Cherryville woman reports assault on a female by listed suspect who assaulted her. Minor injuries reported. Case is active and under further investigation.

6-28: Two women, one from Cherryville, the other no address listed, reported fraudulent and deceptive advertising by listed suspect who committed fraud. Stolen: $175. Case is active and under further investigation.

6-28: Cherryville man re-

ports larceny of a motor vehicle and obtaining property by false pretense by listed suspect who had vehicle scrapped. Closed/cleared by arrest.

6-29: Cherryville woman reports financial transaction (credit/debit cards) by unnamed suspect(s) who were alleged to have committed a fraudulent transaction. No amt. ascertained or recorded on report. Case is active and under further investigation.

6-29: Cherryville woman reports destruction/damage/ vandalism of property by unnamed suspect who damaged property. Est. damages: $400/car windows. Case is active and under further investigation.

6-30: GCPD officers report a new investigation into a residential, forced entry burglary and a fraud-credit card/automated teller machine incident at 2307 Whitworth Rd., Cherryville.

6-30: Cherryville fast food restaurant reports counterfeit currency (fake $100 bill) passed there by unnamed subject who tried to pass said bill. Case status is active and under further investigation.

6-30: Cherryville business reports listed suspects trying to obtain property by false pretenses by attempting to return an item from inside the store (Walmart). Item returned; a smoke detector. Closed/cleared by arrest.

7-1: GCPD officers report new investigations into a drug/narcotic violation; a misdemeanor drug/narcotic violation; and a drug equipment violation at 1021 Dovetail Trl., Cherryville.

7-1: CPD officer reports DWLR (not impaired); fictitious info to officer; and displaying fictitious registration plate by listed suspect who provided said false info, displayed said fictitious tag, and drove w/a revoked OL. Closed/cleared by arrest.

7-1: GCPD officers report a new investigation into a larceny-other incident at 3617 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville.

7-2: GCPD officers report further investigation into a fraud-false pretenses/ swindle/confidence game at 9021 Meredith Leigh Ln., Cherryville.

7-5: GCPD officers report further investigation into a simple assault inci-

dent at 100 Allen Ln., Cherryville.

WRECKS

6-28: A vehicle driven by Addie Timmons Morgan, 82, 408 Oak Grove Dr., Cherryville, and a vehicle driven by Laura Owens Robinson, 41, 3381 Hwy. 274, Cherryville, were involved in an accident on Mountain and Church Streets in Cherryville. Both vehicles were slowing down for the red light when the Morgan vehicle collided in the rear with the Robinson vehicle. No injuries reported. Minor damages reported on both vehicles.

6-29: Clara Peeler Abernethy, 86, 103 Terrace Dr., Cherryville, And a vehicle driven by Macy Michelle Anderson, 22, 2115 Dana Pl., Shelby, were both in the McDonald’s drive-through. The Anderson vehicle was stationary when the Abernethy vehicle struck it in the rear. Mrs. Abernethy told the responding officer her foot slipped off the brake pedal. No injuries reported.

Est. damages to the Abernethy vehicle: $100; to the Anderson vehicle: $500.

7-2: A vehicle driven by John David Seagle, 57, 136 Doree Ln., Crouse, and a vehicle driven by Haley Katherine Budge, 34, 1502 Delview Rd., Cherryville, collided at 2505 Lincolnton Hwy., Cherryville. No injuries reported. Minor damages to both vehicles reported.

7-2: A vehicle driven by Jason Matthew Anderson, 17, 305 Dakar Dr., Shelby, was backing out of a parking space in the McDonald’s fast food restaurant parking lot when it collided with a vehicle driven by Scotty Howard Parker, 60, 308 Baxter Rd., Cherryville. Mr. Parker was going straight ahead when the accident happened. Mr. Anderson didn’t have a valid driver’s license. No injuries reported. Est. damages to the Anderson vehicle: $700; to the Parker vehicle: $2,000.

day except Wednesdays, from 12 noon until 8 p.m., said Thurber. She is glad for the exposure they have received since their soft opening.

“The last two days we’ve been slammed!” she said, adding they will have their Grand Opening Monday, July 10, from 11 to 11:30 a.m.

Thurber said she also had a digital print and graphics business in 2019 called Vivid Blue Design, named after her favorite color.

When asked why Cherryville, Thurber noted, “We like it. He (Heafner) likes the frozen yogurt, so we drove around looking at all the small towns in the area in which to start a business that were close to home. Also, Mr. (Patrick) O’Leary and Mrs. (Vickie) Spurling finished this building to our specifications. I designed the kitchen area and the whole floor plan. I built these tables. I like to build things. On the tables, we have games for people to play while eating here. We have Connect Four, Tic Tac Toe, and checkers.”

She continued, “We also have a Bring A Book, Take A Book place in the back, along with a chalkboard which kids can draw on. The back is mainly a kids place. Carson’s eventual plan is to have a karaoke night; maybe even live music at some point.”

Thurber said another aspect of the business is they plan on doing something in the future for the local sports

That’s right! It’s an Over The Top milkshake and it is all that the name implies and then some! This sweet creation is from the creative mind

“We just have to get it going, is all,” she said.

The company is currently on Facebook (Fuzzy Cow) said Thurber, though they don’t have a web site as of yet. They do have an email: fuzzycowfroyo@gmail.com.

Thurber noted they use real ingredients in their yogurts, which accounts for what she called, “…the deep flavors.” Her favorite is Chocolate Cream Pie. They have a Key Lime Pie flavor, and what they call their “Over The Top” milkshakes, which Kari created and are a thing of beauty and piled high with toppings and, well… more toppings!

“We have had a great response already! We are grateful for everybody’s support. We wanted to ease into it (the business) but everybody found out!”

ing has the original art glass blocks in the transom and the exposed brick lends a nostalgic air to it all.

Said Thurber of their joint “sweets” venture, “Carson wanted something business-wise that we can own together. We have been together for four and a half years.

Though the frozen yogurt ideas was Carson’s, Thurber noted she likes themes; the idea of taking anything and developing it.

They were excited about their grand opening and what the future holds for the shop, and encourage everyone to come by and enjoy.

To call the shop, their number is (704) 996-6074, she said, adding for folks to leave a message and she or someone will get right back to you.

Hard at work prepping her front line, Fuzzy Cow owner/operator Kari Thurber starts working on getting the many toppings put out to start her day at the frozen yogurt shop on Main Str eet. (photos by MEP/The Eagle or provided)

The head cow herself – Debra, a Highland cow that was the inspiration for the shop’s name. She is the star of the show for owner/operators, Kari Thurber and Carson Heafner and their four daughters.

of Fuzzy Cow owner/operator Kari Thurber. Dig in!

The menu above lists some of the most amazing and yummy frozen treats you will ever taste!

Kari Thurber and Carson Heafner’s new store in Downtown Cherryville, located on Main Street – The Fuzzy Cow!

Some of the tables in the yogurt shop. Each was designed and built by Kari Thurber, and each one has a game on top you can play while you’re enjoying a great frozen yogurt.

GASTON COUNTY’S

6 DAY FORECAST

by TRACI POLLITT Cherryville Branch Manager Gaston County Public Library

Coming up at your Cherryville Branch Library!

Family Storytime at Cherryville Fire Dept. –

Thursday, July 13 at 10:30 a.m.

Paint It Out! Teen event – Thursday, July 13 at 4 p.m.

Community Helpers:

Veterinarian – Tuesday, July 25 at 10:30 a.m.

Teen Anime Club –

Thursday, July 27 at 4 p.m.

of audience participation.

The Schiele Museum was here to talk about “Animal Allies” and share a few of their animals with us. At the end of the program, audience members were allowed to pet Jack the rabbit; everyone agreed that he has the softest fur, not to mention the cutest nose.

Finally, we held two events that focused on building as well as teamwork. For each program, participants were chosen randomly and divided into teams, then given a bag of supplies, instructions, and a time limit. We had some interesting

group in the usual story time fun for about 15 minutes or so, then our own firefighters will take over and talk about what they do, show us the equipment they need, and of course, show us their trucks! We’ve had a lot of interest in this event, so plan to be at the firehouse early enough to get parked and find a seat inside. We’re so thankful that our community partner is able to make this event happen for us!

For more information about events at the library, signing up for Summer Reading, updating reading brary-related information, 8190, or stop by the branch at 605 E. Main Street. Our public service hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and

We hope everyone’s having a great summer –

LITHIUM

From Page 1 Acting Gaston County Emergency Management Director Scott Hunter said his investigators used drone footage, internal closed-circuit footage from the Livent facility and interviews with plant workers as part of making the determination.

Lightning strike data and maintenance records were also reviewed as part of the inquiry.

The review also revealed the fire wall within Livent’s facility performed its function, allowing the firefighters to contain the blaze from spreading to other buildings or causing any sort of potential environmental hazard.

Gaston County Emergency Management thanked Bessemer City Fire, the staff at Livent, and all the responding fire and public safety agencies.

“This was an example of readiness and preparation in action,” Hunter said. “Our

After

fire, with some of the burned lithium on the asphalt and the buckled building in the background.

folks on the ground knew what the situation was and what strategies we needed to take, and then we went and did it. The community should feel assured that even in a

unfortunate event like this, the county’s first responders were well positioned and well equipped to keep this facility fire from turning into anything worse.”

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE:

The cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. And one path we shall never choose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission. –

John F. Kennedy

Once again – what a great Fourth celebration here in Cherryville!

I have to say this again…in our 16 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, or thereabouts, to one of the best fireworks displays for a town this size ever! I mean – EVAH!

By Michael Powell michael.cherryvilleeagle@gmail.com

This year –2023 – was absolutely NO exception and (again) my hat (if and when I ever wear one) is off to the Cherryville Fire Department’s crew of talented ‘pyro’ wizards. It’s also off to the Cherryville Police Department, the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, the Gaston County PD, and the GEMS men and

women who all made sure everyone was not only safe last week but had a great time.

You know… full disclosure 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

LETTER TO EDITOR

Dear Editor:

At this time, I feel it is time to speak on behalf of the old City Hall. This building has influenced the lives of all citizens and development of this city since 1911.

The city officials made it their purpose to ensure safety and protection of all citizens by working with the people to create laws, safety justice and security.

This remains their job today. Safety was insured by police who enforced the laws. Anyone disobeying the law could be taken straight to the jail in the lower level of the building. The crimes of the day were speeding, disturbing the peace, public drunk-

enness and fighting. Since there was no test available, if you “appeared drunk,” it was accepted as fact. Any higher crimes were referred to Gastonia. If there was a questionable arrest, the person appeared before the judge in the courtroom in this old City Hall, who administered swift, balanced, and equal justice

Before 1922, the firemen used a wagon with a water tank that they pulled by hand. Many times, they arrived too late to save a building. In 1922 the city purchased “Granny,” the LaFrance fire truck. At this time, she sits in her home spot. The difference is that the Historical Society gave her a nice brick floor instead of

the stands after strolling around Rudisill Stadium (the site of this year’s BIG BOOM) last week, we sat and watched as folks came in, and came in, and came in, and, well…came in!

I saw folks all over that field, having fun, listening to good music (The Tams), eating some good food, and setting up their lawn chairs as they got ready to watch our CFD pyro magicians (thanks to AFC Colby Heffner and Capt. Nathan Bowman and ALL the fire crew ladies and gents) work their fiery magic! Heck, from what I have heard, there was even a CFD marriage proposal thrown in for good measure! And, of course, so far as the fireworks were concerned, they didn’t disappoint as things got under way around 10 p.m.

But, before we get to

the dirt floor. On one occasion, the building next door burned because the firetruck wouldn’t start.

At one time this building suffered some vandalism. Holes were punched in walls going to the lower level. The Society covered the holes with plexiglass. They also had written graffiti on the wall in the police section. The museum covered that graffiti with the police exhibit.

My hope is that this building will receive the Gaston County historic landmark designation it rightly deserves and that it will be used in a manner that will honor this designation.

Respectfully, Mrs. Pat C. Sherrill Cherryville

More great families –may God bless them all!

Recently I wrote a column about great families. The family I wrote about was the family of my sister-in-law, Violet. Violet grew up in Loris, South Carolina, in a large family. And as a matter of fact, this column is simply a continuation of that one – when the family came to visit.

By Anne S. Haynes

In other words, more family members came to visit Violet. These members were Violet’s sister, Gladys, as well as her nieces, Heidi and Patricia. As I have said before, family is so important, and frankly, in the days we are living in, it is more important than ever. All of these precious people are all part of a super family who include Tommy and me when they come to visit.

You may not agree with me about my opinion on family, but that is quite all right. But it is my opinion

that families are so important these days, and they may actually be more important than ever.

One reason for making such a strong statement about families is that many families have had some difficult issues to deal with recently such as the COVID virus, and storms, and high prices.

All of these issues though have shown us just how important families really are today. Because to me it seems when times get rough and it’s difficult to keep going, that family becomes more important than ever.

My mind goes back to the awesome family I was a part of since birth. My dad and mom were great people who dearly loved my two brothers and me.

My dad worked hard at Dixie Lumber Company

the “whiz-bang” of things, let me also say a big “job well done” to the Chamber of Commerce, the City staff, 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 anybody and everybody who took part in this 2023 ID4 event.

Cherryville folks have been treated to some great ones in the past, thanks to retired Chief Jeff Cash and the CFD crews then, and now with Chief Jason Wofford and AFC Colby Heffner and the captains and fire crews are continuing an unbroken tradition of excellence, making all of us smile as we “oohed” and “aahed” the warm

(and somewhat muggy) night away last week.

Folks, with all the bad (and I mean 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. I for one pray that continues on ad infinitum, which means… well, like, 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. While we do have our rough patches, we have been very, VERY blessed, would you not agree?

Nothing in life is ever

perfect and none of us are ever promised a warm, fuzzy Kodak-moment 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 shout-out and say, “THANK YOU!” to all my friends and neighbors and those who keep us safe each and every day, and keep the wheels of local government moving forward, day in and day out. Folks… all y’all keep doing what you do so well. You are the best! You really are!

Have a safe and happy summer y’all!

of Cherryville five- and one-half days a week. He drove a truck part of his career. He also worked as a carpenter. My mom was a wonderful stay at home wife and mother. She had a snack for us and a listening ear to whatever we wanted to talk about when we arrived home from school. On Sundays, we attended Shady Grove Baptist Church of Cherryville, which set us all on the right path early in life.

Now, I know that everyone can’t be fortunate enough to have grown up this way, and I do know other families who have managed with the help of grandparents and other relatives. But, as you see, it all still comes right back to special families loving each other and finding ways to support each other. Violet’s family is a wonderful example of how special families really are in these days.

May God bless all of our families!

What is next for you? Are you making plans for furthering your education? Are you interviewing for employment? Are you debating about your career path? What type of occupation will be fulfilling and pay the salary you want to earn? Possibly you are making plans to get married? You may be wondering about the best strategies for buying a house or saving for retirement. Consider talking to people who are doing what you want to do.

Life coaching and mentoring are sadly missing today. It’s missing in our schools, churches and even worse, our families. Young people are desperate for the wisdom of senior Americans but most of the time think they know everything, We all thought we knew everything when we were young. Looking back, we now realize how little we

really knew.

Throughout life we are typically stuck with figuring it out by ourselves. We made the choice to make our own decisions. When we make our own decisions then we can’t blame anybody but ourselves. However, education is expensive. Learning the hard way is never fun. You have heard people say, “Let him figure it out. He’ll learn.”

This is typically true, but if your grandchild is about to pick up a poisonous snake, would you just stand back and let the child learn? Would you not care enough to snatch the child away from the snake? Of course, you would save your child.

You can’t save everybody, but when you can, then why not do what you hope someone would do for you?

If you consider yourself a young adult then you need to interview some older people. You need to ask questions about their vocations, businesses, and whatever path they have walked. How did they do what they have done? What would they do over? What would they never do again? What

would be their advice to you about life in general, money, marriage, faith, church, raising kids and anything else. You might be surprised at what you will learn.

Most older people think no one wants to hear their opinion and too often it is true. Sadly, years of life’s experiences – worth more than money could ever buy – are never utilized.

Every high school and church should have an occasional life coaching day. A day when some of the community sages are invited to sit and field questions from small groups and even talk one on one.

You may not always hear what you want to hear. Sometimes the truth is surprising. Always keep in mind that the truth will set you free. Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.”

And lastly… always keep in mind that advice giving should always be done in love and gentleness.

Life coaching is often missing in today’s world…

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Sometimes it’s hard to “Go thou, and do likewise!”

Luke 10:37

“Jesus said to the lawyer, ‘Go and do likewise.’”

In Canton I used to have lunch with the Baptist preacher once a week. One week were coming out of the diner when we saw a poor old man, sprawled out on the sidewalk, head swirling around in a drunken stupor. I thought about just walking by, the old man was quite the mess, but then I thought, “I’m a pastor, for goodness sakes!” I’m sure my preacher friend had the same thought. So, we stopped, did

what Jesus called us to do; we showed compassion to the man in need.

“You know we really ought to do something, he could get hurt out here, or worse, someone could take advantage of him.” I said.

“You’re right,” said my friend. So, he got one arm; I got the other, we helped the man get up. He was wobbly, smelled like he hadn’t taken a shower in some time, and it took both of us to keep him steady.

“Easy does it. Watch out for those slippery places in the river,” the man muttered as we guided him to my friend’s car.

“What do we do with him?” I asked. “Do we take him to a hotel? Or should we

Are we there yet?

(Part 2 of “VICTORIOUS” Series)

Going on vacation with your family is fun and stressful, especially if it’s a long road trip. Everyone is excited about the trip. Snacks, games, movies are prepared for the kids to enjoy. Each person is anticipating having a great time. However, as time goes by, the kids begin to get antsy. Then, you hear the famous question, “Are we there yet?” It seems like every few minutes the children are asking that same question. It really becomes annoying to the adults that the children or youth can’t discern that sometimes it takes time to arrive at a destination; there are no shut cuts. Just like our children, sometimes we start complaining about the journey we are on. Although we are headed in the right direction and will end up at a wonderful destination of victory, we get weary. The Bible encourages us to finish and be patient. Ecclesiastes 7:8 (ISV) says, “The conclusion of something is better than its beginning, and a patient attitude is more valuable than a proud one.”

Tips for the Journey

The road that we travel can be filled with bumps, potholes and other obstacles. It can become frustrating and scary. However, we must choose peace, by meditating on God’s word, reminding ourselves of the many times he has brought us through other difficulties, and thanking God for what he has already done in our lives. Colossians

3:15 (AMP) says, “Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise].

To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].” Waiting on God doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means to have an expectation for the manifestation of the promise, and move in faith. While you wait, spend time serving others, seeking God’s will, and obeying his instructions. I remember when I prayed about being married. While I waited, I served in my local church and volunteered in outreach events for the community. While I was volunteering and focused on the Lord, I met my husband. Psalm

27:14 (AMP) says, “Wait for and confidently expect the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for and confidently expect the LORD.”

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

“Father, you are the God of endurance and encouragement, I praise your holy name. Thank you for being good to me. Forgive me for wanting to rush through the process that you have set for me. I know that Christ has given me the victory in all things. Help me to stay focused on your goodness and not doubt you in any way. You are the God of the impossible. Lord, strengthen me to persevere and bring glory to your name. 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.

take him to get some help?”

my friend questioned. We decided that the most help we could give this man was to take him to an alcohol treatment center. We Googled for treatment centers and found one about five miles from where we were. Slowly, the three of us staggered to my friend’s car; it was quite the experience getting the man in the back of the car.

By the time we pulled out of the parking lot the man had passed out again. About a minute passed and then, all of a sudden, the man started yelling, cussing, and kicking. “Hold him!” my friend shouted, while I tried to wrestle the man with everything I had. The more I tried to hold him, the more the man shouted, “Snakes, snakes! Everywhere! Snakes!” It was all I

could do to steady the man, but he kept wriggling out. At the red light, on Main Street he managed to open the door, “Help me!” he began shouting to people on the sidewalks. “Help me! I don’t even know these guys and they are trying to take me someplace.”

I managed to get him back in the car, I rolled down the window and said, “It’s okay, we are preachers, I’m a Methodist preacher; my friend is the Baptist preacher. We are trying to get this man some help.”

As we sat at the longest red light ever the man shouted, “I don’t want no help from preachers. I’m Church of God. Baptist is the ones that put me in this fix in the first place. For the love of God help!” Finally, the light turned green, the car moved, the man passed

out again. When we made it to the treatment center, the man was completely knocked out. So, my friend and I once again had to try and steady him as if we were playing ‘Weekend At Bernie’s.’ The Alcohol Information Center consisted of a young woman seated behind a desk with leaflets on substance abuse. It was obvious when we went in that she had never seen a very inebriated person – or two preachers carrying one in – before.

“You can’t bring him in here,” she said to us. “But he needs help,” I protested. “Not here,” she said, “We provide information, phone numbers; we are not a certified treatment facility.” When we persisted, she agreed to go upstairs and ask her boss what we might do with this man, who was now

sleeping in one of the metal chairs in the small lobby.

As soon as she left that office my friend and I looked at one another and, without a word of deliberation, quietly but quickly tiptoed out of the office and dashed for the elevator, leaving the intended recipient of our goodwill sleeping soundly in the office.

Once downstairs and on the street, we sped away, my friend and I, back to our respective churches to work on our sermons for the upcoming Sunday.

Luke 10:29-37 is far easier to preach than it is to practice, because I don’t think Jesus was playing around when He called us to “Go, and do likewise.”

pray.

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

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

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

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

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

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Cherryville, NC Pastor Clifton Morgan

Cherryville Church of God 810 East Main Street Cherryville, NC 704-435-2275

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If your church is in the Cherryville area and is not listed, please give Lorri a call at 704-484-1047 or email

Pastor First United Methodist Church Cherryville

DANYALE PATTERSON

Cooper delivers mixed bag of signing, vetoing, and allowing bills to become law

He now has 13 vetoes this session. Eight have been overridden by the legislature.

to set bail for some violent offenses. Instead, judges will determine whether a person charged with specific violent crimes will be released from jail before going to trial. H.B. 605 requires public schools to have “threat assessment teams,” safety exercises, and student support programs.

Currently, no laws require public school units to establish threat assessment teams. Charter, regional, and labora-

tory schools are encouraged to have one, but not strictly required.

Under the measure, which the House concurred on June 27, after the Senate passed it the prior week, private schools would be encouraged, not required, to develop a School Risk Management Plan, provide campus schematics to local authorities, and participate in school safety exercises alongside public schools.

Threat assessment according to the bill’s definition refers to the “fact-based process of identifying, assessing, and managing behavior that may

COOPER

From Page 6

pose a risk of violence or other harm to self or others” at a school. As a result, threat assessment teams refer to the group of experts on “counseling, instruction, school administration, and law enforcement” that conduct the assessments of what threatening behavior warrants further investigation.”

Threatening behavior would be defined as “any communication or action that indicates that an individual may pose a danger to the safety or well-being of school staff or students through acts of violence or other behaviors that would cause harm to self

or other.”

In individual schools, threat assessment teams would be composed of “at least one school psychologist, one staff member knowledgeable about and experienced in working with students with special needs, and one staff member knowledgeable about and experienced in working with students with disabilities.”

H.B. 815 would abolish the “arbitrary” five-child cap for foster homes and allow decision-makers to consider additional factors.

See COOPER, Page 7

“We have children sleeping out of state in other homes and facilities, sleeping in emergency departments, and sleeping on couches in DHHS offices,” Rep. Allen Chesser, R-Nash, said on June 29, the day the measure passed in the legislature. “I find this unacceptable, especially while State Administrative Code arbitrarily denies families the ability to host foster children strictly because of the number of children.”

But, as usual, Cooper also vetoed some bills, including H.B. 488, Code Council Reorg, and Var. Code Amend, and H.B. 618, Charter School Review Board. Under the current system, new public charters must first

Gov. Roy Cooper announces a new gun safety initiative, NC S.A.F.E., June 5, 2023. (photo provided)

be authorized by the Charter Schools Advisory Board and then receive a majority vote from the State Board of Education. H.B.618 would create a new Charter School Review Board responsible for evaluating and approving new charters. Its decisions could be appealed to the full State Board of Education.

The new commission would have 11 voting members – four from the Senate, four from the House, and two from the State Board of Education. The final member would be the lieutenant governor. It passed in the Senate on June 20, and received concurrence in the House on June 27.

“The North Carolina Constitution clearly gives the State Board of Education the oversight authority for public schools, including charter schools,” Cooper said. “This bill is a legislative power grab that turns that responsibility over to a commission of political friends and extremists appointed by Republican legislators, making it more likely that faulty or failing charter schools will be allowed to operate and shortchange their students.

Oversight of charter schools should be conducted by education experts, not partisan politicians.”

According to the bill’s language, H.B. 448 reorganizes the building code council and creates the residential code council, amends various provisions of the North Carolina State Building Code and Land Development Regulations, and increases the project cost minimum for the applicability of general contractor licensing requirements.

“This bill stops important work to make home construction safer from disaster and more energy efficient, and ultimately will cost homeowners and renters more money,” Cooper said.

“The bill also imperils North Carolina’s ability to qualify for FEMA funds by freezing residential building code

standards. Not only does the bill wipe out years of work to make homes safer and more affordable, it also violates the Constitution by rigging the way rules are made.”

Cooper’s press release said that by “rigging” the board to require nine votes to approve rules and conduct business, the bill violates the Constitution by failing to follow McCrory v. Berger despite giving the Governor seven appointments to the legislature’s six. It also said the bill also requires board members to undergo Senate confirmation and takes away the Governor’s ability to remove an appointee.

“These changes violate the separation of powers clause and further allows the legislature to put its thumb on the scale in these important safety decisions,” the release concluded.

Cooper’s vetoes could prove futile, with the Republican supermajority in the General Assembly already on a track of overriding his vetoes this session.

He also let S.B. 246 Property Owners Protection Act and S.B. 171 Department of Public Safety Agency Bill.-AB become law without his signature.

The two vetoes on Friday bring Cooper’s veto count to 88, with 13 this session alone. The North Carolina House has scheduled override votes for Wednesday (July 12) for Cooper vetoes of the Fairness in Women’s Sports bill and the Gender Transition/Minors bill.

(Alex Baltzegar, David Bass, and Kevin Garcia-Galindo contributed to this article.)

Cherryville’s Post 100 currently 13-11 overall; 7-5 in Area IV play

Won last week’s best-of-three quarterfinals against Post 29 Caldwell County

by MICHAEL E. POWELL

Editor michael@cfmedia.info

Coach Bob Reynolds’

Post 100 men are currently 7-5 in Area Western Division play and 13-11 overall. They just wrapped up a 3-0 best-of-three sweep of Caldwell County’s Post 29 at Cherryville’s Memorial Stadium/Fraley Field to move on to the semifinals, which started this week.

The team’s showing is good and they are staying focused and are concentrated on getting the next “W” and moving ahead. They are behind division leader Cleveland County Post 82-155, who are 9-3; 17-7; and 2-0, respectively.

In Game One of the best-of-three quarterfinals, which began in on July 6, in Cherryville, Coach Reynolds started right-hander Joseph Webb on the mound. Webb had nine “Ks” and no walks. He was relieved on the mound by Wyatt Davis,

won 2-1 over Post 29. The Post 100 men got four hits to get their two runs. Hitters for Coach Reynolds’ club were: Zane Brockman (2-3, walked twice); Will Fowler (1-3, walked); Ashton Pope (1-3, reached base on an error); Riley Styles (1-3, an RBI); and Landon Jenkins (3-3, an RBI).

The second game of the series was played away on July 7, at Post 29’s home field and Post 100 won that matchup as well by a score of 3-2 in 9 innings of play, according to Richard Walker’s Carolinas Sports Hub web site.

In Game Three’s action, the Post 100 men wrapped things up in a nice, neat package on July 8, once again at Fraley, by downing the tough, never-give-up Post 29 ball club by a score of 10-2.

The Post 100 men got their 10 runs off nine hits. Coach Reynolds used three pitchers in this matchup, starting with CHS baseball product, Brayden Reynolds, who struck out two and walked two. He was followed by another CHS Ironmen product, Kanon Willis,

Davis finished things up by striking out two Post 29 batters to end the game and the series in stellar fashion.

Hitters for the Post 100 club were: Styles (2-4, a walk, and an RBI); Brockman (2-4, a home run, an RBI, and hit by a pitch); Fowler (1-4, a walk); Pope (4-4, a triple, a home run, 3 RBIs, walked, and scored on a wild pitch); Huss (1-4, a triple and an RBI); Jenkins (2-3); Will Blackburn (1-3, a double, an RBI); and Reid Stroupe, catcher for Post 100 and the NCHSAA 2A State baseball champs, the Burns Bulldogs (1-3, and a double).

The semifinals started Wednesday, July 12, and run through to July 19, and are a best-of-seven series.

The remainder of the Legion playoffs is as follows: the West No. 1-East No. 4 winner vs. West No. 3 Asheville; and the West No. 4 Rutherford vs. West No. 2 Cherryville winner, followed by the AL Final (July 20-22, 1 game or best of 3).

(Additional information and stats for the Eagle by Susan L. Powell and Danny Eaker. Additional information and stats by Richard Walker of Carolina Sports

Post 100 pitcher Brayden Reynolds in action at last week’s win over Post 29 at Cherryville’s Memorial Stadium/Fraley Field. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media)

Post 100 slugger Riley Styles eyeballs the stitches and plots where he wants to send this pitch, which was straight out into the outfield.

Not to be outdone, Kings Mountain baseball product Zane Brockman swings for the fences and pounds one deep into the outfield in last week’s game against Caldwell Post 29.

North Gaston baseball product and Post 100 player Ashton Pope gets to second base ahead of the throw.

Cherryville’s Post 100 player Collin Huss, another CHS baseball product, slides into third after hitting a triple, beating the throw that was meant to get him out.

Not to be outdone, Ashton Pope comes in after hitting a home run and driving in Will Fowler, who waits to congratulate him as the rest of the team comes out to do the same.

Post 100’s Zane Brockman steps on home plate after his solo home run. His teammates all come out to congratulate him.

2023 Cherryville Football Schedule

John Chavis Middle School cheer team asking for donations

Thank you to their amazing donors because, so far, the JCMS cheer team has raised $8,000! Chavis Cheer is still looking to raise $7,000 more to

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

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)

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)

Having qualified

Co-Executrices

George Ambrus Martin aka George Ambers Martin, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina,

notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Co-Executrices on or before the 7th day of October, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 5th day of July, 2023.

Cynthia B. Patterson, Co-Executrix

1007 Jonathan Drive Bessemer City, NC 28016

Georgette Martin aka Georgette M. Rivers, Co-Exec

602 N. 14th Street Bessemer City, NC 28016

Regina M. Hedrick, Co-Executrix

904 N. 6th Street Bessemer City, NC 28016

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

CE (7/5, 7/12, 7/19 & 7/26/2023)

Shelby, NC is seeking a full-time Associate Pastor/Youth Minister. Preferred qualifications are experience in student ministry, seminary education and ordination. Please send cover letter and resume to office@eastsidebaptistshelby.org or to ATTN

Personnel Committee, Eastside Baptist Church, 1165 Wyke Rd., Shelby, NC 28150. office@eastsidebaptistshelby.org

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704-473-4299. (704) 4734299

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 MAINTENANCE POSITION LAKE LURE, NC. Full-time, Lake Lure Inn. Knowledge of carpentry, tile, plumbing, electric, and HVAC preferred. Apply within: 2771 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC or online lakelure.com EOE (828) 6252525 ext. 121 engineering@ lakelure.com

WEAVETEC INC. Established Dobby and Jacquard weaving plant needs experienced help for all production positions. Pay depends on experience. Benefits include health insurance and 401K. Please apply in person at 216 Wilbur St., Blacksburg, SC.

BUSINESS SERVICES

SINGLE STORY HOUSE

PAINTING, pressure wash and paint. $1900. 828-8293716.

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

RAGE DOORS. Summer

Tune-up Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704-477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

WE DO IT ALL! Customer service 864-219-8495. Problems, complaints, concerns 864-490-9803.

HOVIS REAL ESTATE

SOLUTIONS. For all your

Handyman needs. Carpentry, Sheetrock, Plumbing, Clean-up and Removal of Trash and Debris, etc. (704) 466-5400 ashovis.67@ gmail.com

J’S LANDSCAPING & MORE. Tree cutting, haul off junk, lot clearing, grass & limb cutting, construction. Call anytime 828-744-2920.

J & W LAWN CARE. Mowing, trimming, leaf removal, pressure washing driveways & patios. Call Jeff for pricing. 704-418-5178.

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48

YEARS

BUSINESS

HANDYMAN SERVICES. NOW IS THE TIME. Over 25 years Exp! Install Replace Hot water Heaters, Mulching, Trees and Bushes trimmed, Minor Repairs, Ceiling Fans, Mini Blind Installation, Any Handyman Services. No Job too Big or Small! References available. We will show up and do the job. Call us first, 704-692-4449.

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION. Site 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

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

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD

SALE. Women’s Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Houseware, Holiday Decoration & More. Sat., July 15th, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Sat. July 22nd, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Sat. July 29th, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. 618 Norwood Street, Shelby, NC 28150

YARD SALE - SATURDAY,

JULY 15, 2023. From 7:00 am until Noon, 208 Wintergreen Court, (in Hall Crossing

Neighborhood) household and furniture items! Kings Mountain, NC 28086 FOR SALE

BOOKCASES, GLASS FRONT, $125 EACH. (Books not included, 4 shelves, 57”x23”; Antique heavy-metal animals: camel, pig and horse, $25 each, 4”-7” tall; Collection of Vintage metal boxes, $20 each, owl, lion, teddy bear, frog, size varies. Vintage diamond ring value at $2,500. Beautiful solitaire stone set in yellow gold, $1,800. Leave message at 704-466-3097.

4200 HUSKEE RIDING

MOWER. 42” Deck, 420cc Powermore. Engine runs very smoothe. VGC overall. $425 cash. Call: 8am-8pm. 704538-9743.

JOHN DEERE MOWER 42” cut. 18.5 HP, Briggs Engine, Good condition. $450 cash only. Leave message, please 704-538-9743.

WOMAN’S LEATHER MOTORCYCLE JACKET. Never worn, size 24, $80. Job Box, in good condition, $150. Gazelle free style glider exerciser, $75. 980-429-7018

ASSORTMENT OF CHILTON

REPAIR MANUALS. I have a large assortment of Chilton Auto Repair Manuals. Some are imports and trucks. Some Motor Manuals all are hard back copies. Best Offer! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

2 TAN RECLINERS. Very good condition. $75 for both. Queen headboard, footboard, rails, all wood $60. (704) 470-5751

FIREWOOD, BUNDLE

PACKS. 7-10 sticks per 23-25 pound pack. Stretch wrapped. $5 ea. Can deliver, minimum 15 packs. 704-458-3081, (704) 435-3970

10 NORMAN ROCKWELL

PICTURES. In nice frames. 7 Norman Rockwell plates, no chips. $200 for all (704) 8604705

GE WHITE TOP AND BOTTOM refrigerator. Approximately 15 to 20 years old. $150

OBO. 828-289-5242

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

FOR SALE

MEN’S CRUISER BICYCLE. New $75. Men’s used cruiser bicycle $35. Must sell. 828782-7221. BOAT & RV COVERS-WE INSTALL. 14 on Site that you can look at and touch! J Johnson Sales, 2690

FOR SALE

WANT TO BUY

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

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

3 MOBILES RENT TO OWN!! RENT TO OWN - 3 Mobile Homes, 2/2 and 2/1 in Rutherfordton, NC, With $5000 down payment the monthly payment is $730, $831 OR $930 including Lot

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

FARM & GARDEN

6588 INTERNATIONAL 4WD TRACTOR. 177 Horsepower with Turbo. PRICED TO MOVE.... NOW $16,000 Call 704-487-6929 or 704-6896042.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

NC. (828) 245-5895

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

STEEL BUILDINGS (OPEN OR FULLY ENCLOSED) 14 on Display. 12’ Wide to 40 EVEN 60 Clear Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete” TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

NEW CAR SHED LOWER PRICES! 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, 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

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

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

CEMETERY LOTS WEST-

VIEW GARDENS, BC 2 Lots in Eternal Gardens at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City, NC. Cost $2400.00. Will sell both for $1500.00 or one for $900.00. Owner will pay the transfer fee. Call for more information. (704) 616-6051 rebeccapoe@gmail.com

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

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

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

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPOS “BUY, SELL, TRADE!” J Johnson Sales, Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895

USED

SALE/TRADE. Various sizes

styles. Keep

safe! 828-980-0788 or 828286-8674. 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 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. DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 704-477-4766. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

LOST & FOUND

LOST MY SET OF KEYS. If Found please contact me. Shelby area. Has Dallas Cowboys Strap and Honda Car Keys & Remote attached. Cal 704-8349848 or 704-431-8100

WANT TO BUY

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 USED MOVING BOXES WANTED. 8 WD’s, 5 DT’s, and 20-.3U. Call 704-905-2398. CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-6926767, (704) 487-0228

SELL YOUR ABANDONED DILAPIDATED BUILDING I’M LOOKING TO BUY A ABANDONED OR DILAPIDATED BRICK BUILDING BETWEEN 1000-3000 SQFT. THAT HAS A ROLL UP DOOR, PREFERABLY LOCATED IN CLEVELAND COUNTY. WOULD PREFER IT TO BE IN KINGS MOUNTAIN IF POSSIBLE. CAN BE RUNDOWN IN NEED LOTS OF TLC. PLEASE CALL ME IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET RID OF. TIM 661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 SAVEYOUREARTH@LIVE. COM

AKC/CKC BOXER PUPPY $350. Female boxer pup, 7 months old. Papers, tail docked, shots worming. Location: Shelby, NC (704) 477-3900 wbmanning33@gmail.com

MICRO MINI GOLDENDOODLE PUPPIES. These are F1b multigen Goldendoodles. 7 week puppies, ready to go home in 1 week. Pups will be 10-20lbs fully grown. Pups come vet checked, microchipped, dewormed, first round vaccines, crate trained and potty training started, well socialized and ready to be loved! Cost $2600. Follow us on Instagram @4kids_doodle or check us out at https://www.gooddog. com/breeders/4-kids-doodle-south-carolina 4kidsdoodle@gmail.com MILL-SEC K9 OBEDIENCE Board and Training. Contact us for your free evaluation. 828755-7335.

FREE KITTENS. Free kittens to a good home. Please call after 4:00 pm or text any time. (828) 201-3861 MALE MALTESE AND FEMALE MALTESE. For sale. Call for information. 704-4769273.

DOG KENNELS 5X10, 10X10, 10X20. Dog Houses, Tops for Kennels. “Delivery & Setup

Available” J Johnson Sales 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

BOER BILLY GOAT FOR BREEDING. 1 1/2 years old. $200. 828-980-5067.

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

CONTURNIX QUAIL $5. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Bob Whites $8.00. Hatching Eggs. Guineas $10. 704-476-9943 (704) 476-9943 jw28178@gmail.com

FREE FEMALE FULL-BLOODED BEAGLE hunting dog. 828-287-0181.

FAINTING GOATS. All nannys. $150 each. 828-248-8060. AKC DACHUNDS PUPPIES. 5 female AKC Dachunds puppies for sale. Wormed and vet checked. They will be ready July 13. $600 for the black ones and $ 800 for the grey one. (704) 472-1149 robertknox1960@gmail.com

FEMALE AFRICAN GREY PARROTT. 10 years old. (704) 466-8366

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. BEAUTIFUL, CHUBBY, AND PLAYFUL. 3 MALES BORN MAY 11TH. PARENTS AKC REGISTERED. FULLY WEENED AND VET CHECKED WITH CURRENT SHOTS. LOCATED IN KINGS MOUNTAIN. (704) 974-3296 SONJAT1@YAHOO.COM

4 BOSTON TERRIER PUPPIES. One Male and 3 female Boston Terrier full blood CKC black and white. UTD vaccine and worming. The male is very desirable as he was the smallest in the litter. Desired by breeders and apartment/small space owners. Male 1,100 and Female 1,200. 864-492-5138. Call or text for photos or info. (864) 492-5138 dvcaldwell38@ gmail.com

PUPPIES FOR SALE. Registered miniature Poodles. 2 dark chocolate males. Ready now. 704-692-1185. FREE KITTENS TO GOOD HOME. Lovable, energetic. Four born 4/14/23, three born first of May. 704-616-9489,

Shady Grove to host gospel music series in July

Shady Grove Baptist Church, 3240 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville, asks everyone to please join them each Sunday evening in July at 6 p.m., for their Summer Celebration Gospel Music Series. On July 9, they will feature Dale Upton and Sons; on July 16, Adam Beard; on July 23, Darryl McLeymore; and on July 30, an Old-Fashioned Hymn Sing. For more information call (704) 435-9605.

PLAN

From Page 1 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.

“We are living in a time of intense political polarization,” Senate Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, said. “Having a Board of Elections that is controlled by one party only sows distrust in our elections and we must find a new approach to quell concerns that cast doubt on the fairness of our elections.”

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

Last week, Senate leaders introduced legislation

ON THE GRILL WORD SEARCH

to address election integrity. Republicans said S.B. 749 further addresses concerns about partisanship playing a role in elections administration.

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.

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 Re-

publican and Democratic parties recommend three registered voters to the State Board.”

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.

How senate bill 749 would change the law

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

S.B. 747 would eliminate partisan deci-

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CARS & TRUCKS

sion-making. Under S.B. 747, decisions must be bipartisan.

“We want a Board of Elections that can come to bipartisan compromise, instead of pushing partisan policy goals,” Sen. Paul Newton, R-Cabarrus, said. “Elections are critical to our democracy and any changes should be made by consensus.”

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.

Furthermore, the board has complete authority over the executive director, and the director cannot make independent decisions.

Opposition

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

“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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

DO YOU HAVE AN UNWANTED HORSE OR PONY? We will provide a loving home. Grandson needs new pet. 704-4666983. WHITE LABRADOR PUPPIES. AKC Registered Champion Blood Line White Labrador Puppies available. Mom and Dad on site. 8 pups available. Place orders now. $250. each. 704-473-4299.

HALF BASSET HOUND PUPS. Ready for new home, 1 male, 2 females, rehoming fee $25 each. 828-289-1258.

GOLDENDOODLES $800 GOLDEN DOODLES ALL BLACK. 3 FEMALES AND 4 MALES LEFT ASKING $800.

WE OWN BOTH PARENTS AND A SIBLING OF THE FIRST LITTER. DAD IS AN APRICOT AKC REGISTERED STANDARD POODLE, AND MOM IS A BLACK CKC REGISTERED GOLDENDOODLE. (980) 552-5916 BRITTNEYS2015@ GMAIL.COM 10 CHICKENS. 2 roosters, 4 hens, 4 chicks. $140 for all or $15 each. 704-273-8105.

AKC REGISTERED GERMAN

SHEPHERD. Male, black & tan, turned two on December 25. All shots. $800. 828-4296910.

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.

2000 MITSUBISHI GALANT. RUNS GREAT PLENTY OF POWER, 23MILS PR GAL, NEEDS AIR/RADIO/ PAINT.

2008.788 MILES. SOLD AS IS. CASH ONLY. (828) 8942900

2000 DODGE Conversion Van. 116,000 actual miles, leather, electric, front and back ac. $8500 obo. Showroom perfect. 864-579-8888 2023 CORVETTE COUPE 3LT. Black exterior, jet black interior. $5,930 in options. 1,121 miles. Owner holds title. Cleveland County. Asking $105,788. Text 704-7348407, appointment only.

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

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

1995 HARLEY DAVIDSON 1200 SPORTSTER. 14,000 miles, some extras. $4,000 OBO. 980-429-7018.

VACATIONS

OCEAN LAKES, BIG DISCOUNTS. On Spring & Fall Weeks. 7 houses, 3 ocean front, some with golf carts. Call Tammy Patterson, 704-4184756. SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMPGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal Sites. (704) 435-0938

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.

Gov. Cooper is expected to veto the legislation.

What happens next?

During the press conference, Sen. 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.

S.B. 749 will go through the normal committee process and the Senate Committee on Redistricting and Elections will hear the bill, along with S.B. 747, on Wednesday, June 12, according to a spokesperson for Sen. Berger.

If the bill is passed and Cooper vetoes it, 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 Senate Rules committee is expected to hear the bill either late this week or early next week.

REAL ESTATE

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

IS IT TIME? Own your on home in the country. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, on 2 acres. 6 miles north of Ellenboro. Repainted roof interior and exterior, new carpet in bedrooms, and wood cabinets throughout. Large deck, good driveway. Come help pick your carport. 828-435-5746

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

111 MORTON ST, SHELBY 3 BR, 1 BA. Central air. No appliances included. No pets. $800/ mth. $400 deposit. Contact Tommy Wilson w/Clay & Associates. Cell-704-418-1251.

2 OR 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES for rent in Shelby, NC. $800-$875 including water. Call 828-234-8147

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

HICKORY CREEK APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS. (62 and older), disabled (50 and older). Shelby. Now taking applications for waiting list. 418 East Warren Street, Shelby. (704) 487-6354

FOR RENT

4 FREE BOXER MIX PUP-

PIES. Free puppies to good home. 4 months old. Boxer mix. Playful. Likes attention. Great with children. 828-289-8900 or 828-2152162 (828) 215-2162 wbhardin24@gmail.com

AKC/CKC BOXER PUPPY

$350. Female Boxer pup 7 months old. Papers, tail docked, shots worming. Location: Shelby, NC (704) 4773900 wbmanning33@gmail. com

CKC TOY POODLES FOR

SALE. Two Boys and One Girl born 5/11/23 ready for their furever home 7/6/23. UTD on shots and wormings. Well socialized. Please visit www.quailhollowpuppies.com (828) 569-9807 juliecarr42@yahoo.com

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

TOY & MINI AUSSIES. UTD on shots and worming. Blue eyes, paper trained. 828-289-6756.

MINI SCHNAUZER FOR SALE. Beautiful mini Schanuzer puppies for sale. White, Brown and Parti. (704) 5344368 lpastore3@yahoo.com

1993 FORD F-150 77,000 miles. $9500, V-8, 5.0 engine, 2-wd, XLT, very clean, dual flowmaster exhaust, long bed, power wd/locks, cruise control, new tires, ac/heat, same family. (704) 575-2784

2001 DODGE DURANGO Ext Cab, 2WD, 5.2 Gas, auto SWB. Drive anywhere, $3900. (704) 600-5534

2019 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. Mint condition, dealer serviced, always garaged and never smoked in, new car smell! NO accidents, scratches, or chips. Convertible, 2LT, 8,100 miles, $71900, (919) 6968749 mark.aremia@gmail. com

2005 HONDA ACCORD SDN 121,449 miles, Call for Price, (704) 748-1890 sales@ctcautosports.com

Look

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-718-2659.

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

BEACH RENTAL: Beautiful Oak Island, NC. 3BR, 2BA house & 2BR, 2BA. Near beaches, restaurants. Close to Wilmington, Myrtle Beach. 828-744-9191.

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $210 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299

MOBILE HOMES & APARTMENTS. In Kings Mountain. Please Call (704) 739-4417

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments, 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby, NC or call for more information 704487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704-739-0259.

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has

1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications now. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@RPMMANAGED.COM

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT. 2 bedroom duplex apartment for seniors, no pets, non smoker close to Cleveland Mall, yard maintenance furnished. $500.00 month, $500.00 deposit. (704) 472-0355

GASTON COUNTY FREE MOBILE HOME Just pay lot rent. Suitable for 3 people. Mobile Home needs some repairs. 704-922-8603 (Leave Message).

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

HOUSE FOR RENT. 3 bedroom 2 bath house on Hwy 64 in Cane Creek. 1,800 month. Mini farm, Private, only 1 close neighbor. Great for children. (828) 919-0244 (828) 286-3826 linkdellinger@hotmail.com

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest Citwy. Starting at $600 per month. 828-382-0475.

CELEBRATION

From Page 1 ahead of the band, 14-Karat Gold and later, The Tams, both groups out of Georgia. Said Beam, “Welcome to our 2023 Independence Day celebration! We are so glad to see everybody here at Rudisill Stadium for our second year of hosting this event at the stadium and having the fireworks at Cherryville’s First United Methodist Church parking lot. We thank them, their pastor, and great congregation especially for allowing us to be able to use their parking lot again this year to be able to have the space to

Mayor Beam added later, after the celebration, “I thought it (the celebration) was a huge success! I believe it was one of the largest crowds at any city event. We had no problems and no incidents, and the band was very, very entertaining.”

He continued, “I know that most of the positive comments we received on this event came from various families that attended. Many told me they felt them and their children were very,

Beam was glad the City Council was well represented that night as he saw them out and about, mingling with the crowds and

some of their constituents whom the represent.

As for the fireworks display, Mayor Beam said simply, “They were GREAT!”

The reason the 4th celebration is held in the stadium, noted the Mayor, is that it was originally moved due to the Main Street construction, but went so well and was so well received, Council and the City decided to keep it at the stadium again.

City Manager Brian Dalton said, “I was very happy with the amount of people we had at the Fourth Festival. I feel like citizens had a great time hearing the band and had a lot of great options for food. The fireworks were one of the best we have ever had! The July 4th festival is one of our biggest celebrations and we appreciate all the support we receive in putting on this event. I have had numerous comments of how much residents enjoyed the festival.”

Colby Heffner, Assistant Fire Chief and Safety Director for the City of Cherryville, said, “I am happy to report that we had a successful Independence Day celebration! We were able to shoot the fireworks safely and we have heard only positive remarks! The Cherryville Fire Department takes pride in providing the best fireworks show in the area and we look forward to providing a safe and enjoy-

By JIM MILLER Editor

able show for many years to come. We would like to thank Hugh's Pond Fire Department and Waco Fire Department for helping us make this a successful event!”

In addition to the fire crews who took part in and helping out at the 4th celebration, the City staff wanted to all shout out a word of thanks and appreciation to Cherryville Police Department Chief Brandon Hunsucker and all the men and women of his department who provided security and helped out with the crowds, along with members of the Gaston County Police Department and the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, as well as GEMS and the many EMTs who were there that night and on duty.

CFD Driver/Engineer Doyle Brown, who noted he has been doing this for roughly 16-17 years, said, “I like having it (the fireworks) over in the church parking lot, and I feel this is one of the better displays of fireworks we have done, so far as being a memorable show.”

Capt. Rayfield agreed, adding, “Everything went off without a hitch, which is always a good thing!”

How to Handle Social Security Benefits When A Loved One Dies

Dear Savvy Senior,

How are Social Security benefits handled when someone dies? After a long illness, my 68-year-old father has only weeks left to live. I am helping my mom figure out her financial situation going forward, including what to do about my dad’s Social Security after he passes away but could use some help.

Only Son

Dear Only,

I’m very sorry about the impending loss of your father. To help you and your mom understand what Social Security provides and what needs to be done when a family member dies, here are some key points you should know.

Your first order of business will be to make sure the Social Security Administration is notified when your father dies, so his monthly benefits will be stopped. In most cases, the funeral home providing his burial or cremation services will do it. You’ll need to provide your dad’s Social Security number to the funeral director so they can make the report. But, if they don’t offer that service or you’re not using a funeral home, you’ll

need to do it yourself by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213.

When Benefits Stop

There are a couple of things to be aware of regarding your dad’s Social Security benefits. For starters, you need to know that a person is due no Social Security benefits in the month of their death.

With Social Security, each payment received represents the previous month’s benefits. So, if your dad were to pass away in August, the check for that month – which would be paid in September – would need to be returned if received. If the payment is made by direct deposit, you would need to contact the bank or other financial institution and ask them to return any benefits sent after your dad’s death.

Survivor Benefits

When your father passes away, your mother may be eligible for survivor benefits on his record if she’s at least age 60 (50 if disabled). Here’s how that works depending on her situation.

If your mom is currently receiving Social Security benefits based on your fa-

ther’s work record, her spousal benefit will automatically convert to survivors benefits when the government gets notice of your dad’s death. She cannot receive both spousal and survivor benefits at the same time.

Widows are due between 71 percent (at age 60) and 100 percent (at full retirement age) of what the husband was getting before he died.

If, however, your mom is eligible for retirement benefits (but hasn’t applied yet), she can apply for retirement or survivors benefits when her husband passes away and switch to the other (higher) benefit later. Or, if your mom is already receiving her retirement benefits on her own work record, she could switch to survivors benefits if it offers a higher payment. She cannot, however, receive both benefits.

To apply for survivors’ benefits, your mom will need to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 and schedule an appointment. She can’t do it online.

You should also know that survivor benefits are available to former spouses

and dependents who meet SSA qualifications – see SSA.gov/benefits/survivors.

Also note that if your mom collects a survivor benefit while working, and she’s under full retirement age, her benefits may be reduced depending on her earnings. See SSA.gov/pubs/EN-0510069.pdf for details.

Death Benefit

In addition to survivor benefits, Social Security will also pay a one-time payment of $255 to your mom (the surviving spouse) if she was living with your dad at the time of his death. If they were living apart, she may still receive this one-time payment if she’s collecting spousal benefits on his work record. In the absence of a surviving spouse, the lump-sum payment can go to a son or daughter who is eligible for benefits on the deceased’s work record.

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.

Some of the great food and vendor trucks that came to the 2023 Independence Day celebration at Cherryville’s Rudisill Stadium on June 30. (photos by MEP/The Eagle/CF Media and Susan L. Powell)

What’s a great Independence Day celebration without amazing pyrotechnics? Such wasn’t the case at the 2023 Cherryville Independence Day celebration as the pros of the Cherryville Fire Department shot off many beautiful “fire flowers” like these from the parking lot of Cherryville’s First United Methodist Church.

Jamming to some great oldies and beach music from Georgia group, The Tams and their back up band, 14-Karat Gold, as Lil Red and the men took to the stage after Mayor H.L. Beam’s introduction.