KM Herald 06-06-24

City council approves lake fees increase

By Loretta Cozart

express their displeasure with the proposed fee increase for residents living on waterfront property or those using watercraft on John H. Moss Reservoir (Moss Lake). With the council chambers filled to capacity, the crowd poured into the

The Catawba Nation is set to begin construction of a more than $700 million permanent casino resort in Kings Mountain, after finalizing a settlement with its former casino developer over the ground lease for its trust lands.

The Catawba Nation finalized the private settlement with Sky Boat Gaming in early May, removing the firm from any interest in the project. In February, the Catawba Nation also purchased land around its temporary casino from Sky Boat, including the parking lot and additional property that may be used to support

resort amenities and experiences.

“We persevered to achieve a fair deal so that we can now realize the full financial and economic benefits of the project for Catawba Nation members and residents of Cleveland County,” Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris said.

“The establishment of this casino is not just about bricks and mortar; it symbolizes our commitment to preserving our tribal identity, supporting our community and creating opportunities for our people. This project will not only generate revenue for

our tribe but also provide jobs, education and social programs that will benefit our members and the surrounding region. These jobs, including construction jobs, along with increased patron traffic, will provide local governments and the state of North Carolina with additional tax revenue and other investments under our compact. The Catawba are working to keep casino revenue in North Carolina as opposed to what outside commercial casino companies would do,” Harris said.

Planning for the permanent casino resort continued See CONSTRUCTION, Page 5A

quickly overflowing. With nowhere else to go, the crowd spilled out into the plaza of City Hall. The sound system, which can be played in the lobby, did not work properly, so attendees had to monitor the proceedings using their cell phones. Before the public hearing on the issue, Councilman Jay Rhodes used his portion of the city council meeting normally set aside for comments to clarify the pro-

posed increase in lake fees. He shared, “Consternation. That's a big word, but I think it's appropriate on what's been going on relative to lake fees. Later in this meeting, I am going to make a motion to approve or modify what you've all seen or not seen in the papers and in notes.

“I'm of the opinion that fees do need to be increased. And this is what I'm going

See FEES, Page 5A

By Loretta Cozart

“Summer has arrived, and families are going to the water to cool off. Kings Mountain has several budget-conscious options for families to escape the soaring temperatures without draining their wallets.

A popular spot to cool off is the splash pad in Patriots Park, which is open during

daylight hours. There is no cost, and children must be supervised.

A new water slide is now open at Kings Mountain Family YMCA. The pool and slide are open to the public Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost is $5.00. Group swimming lessons are also available at Kings Mountain Family YMCA for children ages 3 to 14. Swimming is a life skill and great exercise. Instructors use a variety of fun methods to help kids overcome fears, build confidence in the water, and develop skills that last a lifetime. Register online. Classes cost $50 for members and $70 for non-members.

Gas purging operations scheduled this week

The City of Kings Mountain announced that they will be conducting gas purging operations this week as part of a scheduled project. This task began on Monday, June 3, and gas purging is planned intermittently through Friday, June 7, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day. Specific work zones in-

about detecting a gas odor, please direct them to our team

The

Mountain

dress every call to ensure the

of the citizens. The city requests, “Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the gas purging operations, please contact the city. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

MAY 28 CITY COUNCIL MEETING – With the council chamber filled to capacity the crowd poured into the lobby, quickly filling to capacity. With nowhere else to go, the crowd spilled out

into the plaza of City Hall. (Photo by Ricky McDonald)

Rendering by Catawba Two Kings Casino Catawba Nation to begin construction after settlement with former developer

■ OBITUARIES

James McKee

Bradley Sr

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – James McKee Bradley Sr, 91, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on June 2, 2024 at his home.

He was born in Gaston County, NC, son of the late Mac and Gertrude Bradley and was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 59 years, Dolores Beal Bradley. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Betty Alger, Pat Ferguson, Doris Thomas, and Sam

Patricia Ledford Champion

GASTONIA, NC – Patricia Ledford Champion, age 84 of Gastonia, NC passed away on May 29, 2024. She was born December 3, 1939 in Cleveland County, NC to the late Paul Thomas and Lillie Mae Huffstetler Ledford. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Edward Rice, second husband, Carl Wendell Champion, brother Carol Thomas Ledford, sister, Helen Ledford Allen, great nephews, Nathan M. Ledford and Paul Thomas Ledford.

Pat (Ma Ma) loved all of her family dearly but had a very special place in her heart for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren! She would light up when-

Bradley.

Jim was a longtime member of Oak Grove Baptist Church and retired from Southern Bell Telephone Company after 30 years of service. Jim also spent many years fulfilling his passion of buying, raising and selling cattle. He enjoyed trips to the sale barn and his frequent visits to the Chat-and-Nibble restaurant to eat and socialize.

Jim loved his family deeply and was exceedingly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a wonderful provider and mentor to his family, and a loyal friend to many people.

He is survived by his children: Jimmy Bradley and wife Tracy, Kings Mountain, NC, Karon Sturgill and husband Tony, Tullahoma, TN, and Renee Shockley and husband Doug, Whitesburg, TN; brother: Glenn Bradley and wife Gail;

ever they were around. Pat was a strong willed woman with unwavering faith in God. She was very generous to everyone around her. Pat supported numerous charities and always helped others in need.

Patricia is survived by her children: Kent Rice (Marisa) Angela Rice, Chris Champion (Suzanne), Kevin Champion (Kamie), Ashley Champion Jones, (Van), Justin Champion (Julie); grandchildren: Matt Rice, Haley Rice, Owen Williams (Erin), Chase Gibson (Laura), Bailey Champion, McKenzie Coleman (Noah), Dallas Williams, Chandler Champion (Whitney), KC Champion, Cameron Williams, Evan Jones, Eli Jones, Gray Jones, Gavin Jones, Carson Champion and Rex Champion; great-grands: Slade, Wyatt, Parke, Amira, Claire

grandchildren: Brad, Robbie, Casey, Michael, Allison, Jessica, Chris, and Andy; great-grandchildren: Micah, Piper, Grady, Lauren, Carson, Hayden, Lucas, Zoey, Sloane, Gavin, Skylar, Hudson, Anderson, Ellie, Cora, and one on the way: McKee.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Oak Grove Baptist Church with Reverend Ron Caulder officiating.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the sanctuary of Oak Grove Baptist Church.

Interment will be in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services , Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

and Roper; nephews: Scott Ledford, (Angie) and Barry Ledford (Tina), Nieces, Karen Roberts (Craig) and Marcia Allen.

She is also survived by numerous extended family, great nieces, nephews and special friends Graveside service was held on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Reverend Dr. John Sloan officiating.

Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals. com.

Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services , Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

Free medicine disposal kits and lock boxes are available

The Cleveland County Health Department (CCHD) is proud to offer various ways to prevent prescription medication misuse. The data show a clear picture—prescription opioid misuse prevention tools are more important than ever.

As drug overdose deaths and emergency department visits continue to rise in Cleveland County, the Cleveland County Health Department is providing free resources to help prevent medication misuse and abuse. According to NCDHHS, Cleveland County experienced 36 overdose deaths in 2022 and 241 overdose ED visits in 2023. Almost 40% of all overdose ED visits in Cleveland County in 2022 were due to commonly prescribed opioids.

CCHD offers Deterra pouches and medicine lock boxes free of charge to help local households prevent medication misuse, accidental ingestion, and envi-

ronmental harm by safely storing and disposing of unused or expired medications.

Dependence on prescription opioids can unintentionally start in home medicine cabinets, where unused and expired medication can be easily accessed by family members and friends. Harm reduction methods, like Deterra and medicine lock boxes, exist to help our community prevent substance misuse before it starts.

Deterra medication disposal kits are highly effective in rendering drugs inactive and unavailable for misuse and are safe for the environment. In a 3-step process, a user deactivates drugs by putting them in a Deterra Pouch, adding water, shaking, and throwing them away in the household garbage. Deterra’s plant-based packaging and non-toxic ingredi-

ents also prevent harmful chemicals from entering our landfills and water supplies, making the world safer for everyone.

Medicine lock boxes are also available free of charge as part of the Lock Your Meds national campaign to reduce prescription drug misuse through safe home storage.

Community members who would like a free Deterra medication disposal kit or medicine lock box can pick them up at the front desk of the Cleveland County Health Department located at 200 S. Post Road, Shelby, NC, between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday – Friday. For more information or to request Deterra or medicine lock boxes for your home or business, you can also contact Carmen Barbuto, DrugFree Communities Grant Coordinator, at carmen.barbuto@clevelandcountync. gov or 980-484-5335.

Kick-off to Summer animal adoption event

Cleveland County An-

imal Services announced its Kick-off to Summer animal adoption event that began on Monday, June 3. When you adopt a dog or cat from Animal Services, your name will be entered into a drawing from selected door prizes donated to its facility. Prizes include a FREE BarkBox, donated by BarkBox, Inc., and 2 tickets to see Najee at the

Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, donated by Blumenthal Arts. During this event, they have significantly reduced their animal adoption fees for a limited time. Adopting a dog is now just $25, and cat adoptions are a mere $10. The raffle will be drawn on July 1. You must adopt a pet to be entered into the door prize raffle. If the animal is returned, you will no

longer be eligible for the prizes.

Central Methodist Church

VBS June 9 – 13

By Loretta Cozart

Join Central Methodist Church for its annual Vacation Bible School, from Sunday, June 9 through Thursday, June 13. Climb aboard for mountains of fun at Rocky Railway! On this faith-filled adventure, kids discover that trusting Jesus pulls them through life’s ups and downs. Visit https://cmkm.org/ to register for this event. The church needs volunteers who can assist us in planning, decorating, teaching, serving food, cleaning up, and making

this event a memorable experience for our VBS students. If you would like to volunteer, please email kayla@cmkm.org.

the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office. Photo by CCSO

Rocking under the stars at The Schiele Museum

City approves amended economic incentives for Filter Balls

By Loretta Cozart

The city council approved an altered economic incentive plan for Filter Balls, a non-woven textile manufacturer, during the Kings Mountain City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 28. The original economic incentive plan for “Project Ball” was approved on April 11. At that time, it was anticipated that the county would also offer economic incentives.

Spend an evening under the stars while rocking to Pink Floyd's classic rock music at the James H. Lynn Planetarium in The Schiele Museum in Gastonia on Saturday, June 27. The event is part of the popular “Music Under the Stars” series.

The unique two-act program will feature live music performed by The Album Series Band, choreographed to a celestial starlight show of immersive 360-degree visuals. The band specializes in performing classic albums of legendary rock ‘n roll bands, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Metallica, The Allman Brothers, and others.

Based on popular demand, The Album Series Band will perform two shows at the planetarium on the same day, starting at 5:30 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m.

The music will include two Pink Floyd albums, “Atom Heart Mother,” and “Meddle.”

“Atom Heart Mother” is the band’s fifth studio album, released in 1970. It marked a shift toward progressive rock and experimental rock styles, distinct from their earlier psychedelic material. The album reached number 1 in the UK and eventually went gold in the US. It included the “Atom Heart Mother Suite,” a sixpart composition that takes up the entire first side of the original vinyl record. Clocking in at 23 minutes and 38 seconds, it’s one of Pink Floyd’s longest uncut studio pieces.

The most popular song on Pink Floyd’s album Meddle is “Echoes.” This iconic track is a progressive rock masterpiece known for its atmospheric soundscapes and extended instrumental passages. The album was released on October 31, 1971, marking several significant milestones for Pink Floyd. Notably, it was the first album to feature lyrics credited solely to Roger Waters, although most of the vocals were performed by David Gilmour.

The evening’s entertainment is suitable for all ages.

Tickets are $30 for museum members and $35 for the general public. Seats are limited, and a sell-out is expected. For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit SchieleMuseum. org.

To attract the manufacturer, the City of Kings Mountain is applying for an NC Department of Commerce Building Reuse grant that requires it to give a 5% match.

City Manager Jim Palenick explained the need to amend the incentive saying, “At that time, our approved incentive was for three years as 20% of property taxes in the form of a rebate. They would have to pay the taxes first and then receive 20% back for each

of three years, post-investment, post-job production, and that total was 21,456.”

He continued, “Because the State Building reuse incentive grant requires a 5% match, and we are not having the county participate as well to meet that 5% match, we need to alter our incentive to three years at 30%, with a similar structure in terms of a rebate against property

taxes. That now would total $29,856 as an incentive.” The project passed by unanimous vote. Filter Balls will be located at 700 South Railroad Avenue and is investing approximately $9.5 million. The manufacturer is projected to hire 84 employees with an annual average salary of $63,298.00.

Gaston County welcomes

J&L Machine and Fabrication, a steel fabrication and machining provider, will create 33 new jobs in Gaston County, Governor Cooper announced on May 29. The company will invest over $2.1 million to expand its production capacity in the Town of Stanley.

“North Carolina’s economic success has benefitted from the strength of our small, independently owned businesses and manufacturing legacy,” said Governor Cooper. “With a shared passion for training and developing a skilled workforce and providing quality career paths, we are confident that J&L Machine and Fabrication will continue to thrive in Gaston County for years to come.”

Locally owned and headquartered in Stanley, North Carolina, J&L Machine and Fabrication is a leading provider of high-precision steel parts for heavy industrial equipment and machines. The company engineers and fabricates complex parts with a full range of services, including cutting, forming, bending, welding, painting, and assembling processes. This expansion will increase production capacity to meet growing customer demand for the company.

“This expansion aligns with our strategy as a solutions center, allowing us to improve the service level to our global OEM customers with new added capabilities and capacity and enabling us to create new jobs supporting the Stanley community and the State of North Carolina,” said Danny Tawil, J&L’s Chief Operating Officer.

While wages will vary by position, the average annual wage is estimated to be $50,808, exceeding the Gaston County average of $50,746. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.6 million for the region.

“North Carolina companies know the benefits of operating in our state better than anyone,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “As we continue growing our automotive and electric vehicle sectors, companies like J&L Machine and Fabrication can help increase our supply chain by making high-quality parts right here in North Carolina.”

A performance-based grant of $70,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help J&L expand in North Carolina. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and

create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“J&L has been a great contributor to our local economy and an outstanding community partner,” said N.C. Representative John A. Torbett. “We look forward to watching their trajectory skyrocket as they enter this next phase of growth.” In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Gaston College, Gaston County, Gaston County Economic Development Commission, Gaston County Workforce Development Board, NCWorks Gaston, and the Town of Stanley.

For more information on J&L Machine and Fabrication, including career opportunities, visit jlmaf. com.

Photo by Loretta Cozart

Filter Balls will be at the old Coats facility at 700 S. Railroad Avenue. (Photo by Loretta Cozart)

KMHS Band Heritage exhibit coming in July to the KM Historical Museum

By Loretta Cozart

Director January Costa

announces an exhibit of band history coming to Kings Mountain Historical Museum from July 16 through October 26. The exhibit overviews the band's history and cul-

ture of Kings Mountain. The public is invited to reminisce with old photographs, band uniforms, and ephemera from days past.

Exhibits are on display Tuesday - Saturday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Admission is free!

Ashley hired as CC Economic Development Partnership Director

Earlier this month, Cleveland County Government hired Ms. Courtney Ashley as the Executive Director for the Cleveland County Economic Development Partnership.

Ms. Ashley previously served as the Economic Development Marketing Manager for the City of Greenville, South Carolina, where she supported the city through startup and small business assistance, business recruitment and attraction, community engagement and content, and program and event development.

“Courtney is a welcome addition to our economic development team. I am confident that her experience, talents, and strategic thinking will build on Cleveland County’s successes, moving us into the future,” said County Manager David Cotton.

With over seven years of experience and comprehensive knowledge in economic development and community engagement, she now leads Cleveland County’s economic development efforts through new business recruitment, business retention and expansion, project management,

“This role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations to promote economic vitality,” said Courtney. “I look forward to fostering sustainable growth within the community and spearhead initiatives that attract new businesses, support existing industry, and ensure that Cleveland County remains a vibrant and dynamic place for everyone.”

Ms. Ashley has also served as the Marketing and Events Manager for the Town of Forest City and as the Director of Marketing for the Forest City Owls. She has a Bachelor of Arts with majors in Communications and Political Science from

Kings Mountain Historical Fire Museum is closed due to ongoing renovations. Check the Kings Mountain Fire Department’s website for updates.

Medicaid expansion workforce development planning launches

Last week, leaders from NCDHHS and the NC Department of Commerce formally launched a collaborative pro-

cess of developing a report to the North Carolina General Assembly on opportunities to provide workforce development services in conjunction with the state’s Medicaid expansion.

In the historic legislation that approved Medicaid expansion, the General Assembly charged the Department of Commerce with leading the development of a comprehensive workforce develop-

ment plan, along with various stakeholders.

The plan will cover services such as job training assistance, career paths and job readiness, job placement, resources for job seekers, recruiting services, and healthcare workforce support, as well as how to determine the success of workforce development programs. In addition, NCDHHS is working with

the Department of Commerce to help individuals enrolled in Medicaid and other relevant social service programs access appropriate workforce development services. The Department of Commerce and NCDHHS will report to the General Assembly on their plans and recommendations later this year. For more information on Medicaid expansion, visit the NCDHHS website.

COURTNEY ASHLEY

Kings Mountain National Military Park posted this photo on Friday. A Big grin on the little boy leading the “army” of children shares the pure joy he is experiencing as he marches. He will likely

NC Driver's License and ID Cards to feature

new, more secure design

The NC Division of Motor Vehicles has released new driver licenses, permits, and identification cards featuring the latest in card security design and construction, specifically intended to combat fraud.

The new credentials are the most secure in state history and among the most secure identifying documents worldwide.

The state’s new credential is a 100% polycarbonate card that is personalized using laser engraving technology. Because of its composition, the card will not only look different, it will also feel and sound different.

The card will feel stiffer and have both embossed and debossed patterns and lettering on the surface of the card. When dropped onto a tabletop, it will make a unique metallic sound.

The new card design showcases imagery familiar to North Carolinians, with hints of blue and green specifically chosen to correspond with wellknown state attributes such as its rolling hills and abundant nature.

The card front includes the state’s flower – the dogwood, the state flag,

the state border outline, a marbled salamander, and a lighthouse, all at the forefront of the rolling hills in the west. The card back includes the Colonial Spanish Mustang grazing along one of North Carolina’s many beaches in the east.

The card will feature a vertical portrait-style layout for recipients under 21, while all others will

include a horizontal landscape-like design.

These design elements are among over 50 security features used to assist law enforcement in deterring and detecting fraud.

The new card design went into production last week, and the current design will be phased out by the end of June.

FEES

From Page 1A

to recommend. All lots aside from those in the Clinestead settlement and any city-controlled lots will have a lease fee. The lease fees will be 50 feet or less, $575; 51 feet to 100 feet lake frontage, $625 dollars; 101 to 300 feet, $710 dollars; 301 to 1,000 feet, $830; and more than 1000 feet, $985. Secondly, there will be no more bundling or family plans. Aside from that, the lease fees will be due on January 1st. If failure to pay those by the 15th, there will be a late fee of $50.00 and a 1.5% payment after that. Boat fees will be $200.00, but those on the lake will get a 25% discount. $150.00. That's on an annual basis and that includes jet skis as well. Boat permits on a daily basis, including jet skis, are $40, and you will get a discount of 25% if you live on the lake. Camping fees will be $35 a day and $175 a week.

“Other fees: the picnic shelter for one-hour costs nothing. For one day, $60.00. Slip fees in the group pier facilities are $75.00, which remains the same.

“And you will be able to use your irrigation pump. The fee will be increased to $650 on an annual basis. I want to explain that because I've had several (people) contact me. I'm a resident of the City of Kings Mountain. I have an irrigation system in my yard. I will be paying much more than you on an annual basis because for every drop of water I use, Mr. Palenick charges me money. So, $650 is an annual fee, and that is the only thing you'll have to do. There are the city codes people will come by; they want to make sure that you have a backflow check valve. OK. And that's so that when you turn your irrigation system off, whatever waters in those lines does

CONSTRUCTION

From Page 1A

while the settlement was being negotiated, with construction and design plans now finalized. Initial financing is in place and a ceremonial groundbreaking is set for 10 a.m. June 7 at the site to mark the beginning of construction.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to making this dream a reality – from our tribal council, legal team, (Catawba Nation) Gaming Authority, (Catawba Nation) Gaming Commission and partners, to the hard-working individuals who will construct this casino. Together, we stand united in our mission to build a sustainable future for our tribe and uphold our cultural values,” Harris said.

Work has also been completed on two key infrastructure projects funded by the Catawba Nation for the development of the permanent casino resort: doubling the size of the Dixon School Road Bridge over I-85 near the casino entrance and installing new sewer lines near the casino.

Delaware North, the global hospitality and entertainment company that has been a consultant to the Catawba Nation on the project since 2019, is expected to manage and serve as the developer of the permanent casino resort once the contracts are

not come back into the water (system). That's the only thing. You will be getting 25% discounts on all boating permits, and the city reserves the right to issue civil penalties for using unpermitted irrigation pumps up to $250. But I hope that never occurs. We don't care to do that.”

In addition, city citizens will receive a 50% discount on boat fees. Instead of paying $200, they will pay $100. Over the next hour, seventeen citizens expressed their anger and frustration over the situation at the lake. John H. Moss Reservoir Commissioner and Moss Lake resident Trip Boinest shared, “I am currently in my second term as a Moss Lake Commissioner, and it is an honor to work to advise this group on the workings of the lake. The committee is made up of five at-large members from Kings Mountain who do not live on the lake and two lakefront property owners. Our objective is to maintain regulations, approve events to be held on the lake, and advise the King's Mountain Council on matters related to the lake, including annual fees.

“We worked on a new fee schedule for about two months prior to our April meeting, and we were to have voted on it then so that it would be in there in time for the new city budget. A week before that meeting, the meeting was canceled with no explanation. And about that time the Kings Mountain City manager James Palenick posted a piece on Facebook indicating that the lakefront homes were the main cause of contamination and Algae bloom in the lake, because of emissions from their septic system. He had no data. He had no statistics. He went on to say that homeowners really did not pay their fair share and should support the lake in some way, if they could only be taxed. He later posted another Facebook post about water, lawns, and runoff.

approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission. SOSHNY Design, which has designed many casino resorts, including Delaware North’s $320 million Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis, Arkansas, is the architect.

During construction, the Catawba Nation will continue to operate its temporary casino, which opened in 2021 and features 1,000 slot machines, electronic table games (ETGs), a retail sportsbook, and a restaurant. The temporary casino will add 12 live table games and 56 additional slot machines in early summer, and additional surface parking.

The permanent casino resort, which will be about 2 million square feet at full buildout, will be completed in two main phases: • Introductory Casino:

This phase will be constructed at ground level with 1,350 slots/ETGs, 12 table games and a restaurant with 40 seats that will include a sportsbook area with 30 self-service kiosks. In addition, supporting back-of-house space for surveillance, security, the cage and part of the first two floors of the parking garage (1,600 spots) will be completed above the ground level.

“The lakefront property owners for years have been leasing the land below 8 feet above the water line and then paying to maintain it, put up sea walls, put up rip rap. We've done all kinds of things to try and prevent runoff in the lake. And at the same time, through dock fees, boat fees, lease fees, we fund more than 75% of the income side of the Moss Lake budget. How do you think we have not been a participant?

“In nine of the last 11 fiscal years, the lake budget has had an excess at the end of the year, many times in the 20,000 range. And in no subsequent year has there been a carryover of funds. Wasn't that money for the operation of the lake,” he asked.

“The city has received two grants that I'm aware of $250,000, funded by 10 more from the state of North Carolina to help the Hollyfields specifically to get the mud and sticks out from one of their piers. The city instead spent that money to do a lake study.

“There's been another $400,000 grant for studies, and we have seen no accounting on that at the Commission.

“We've been told that there's another $400,000 grant that's going to be made available for dredging, but we see no accounting on that.

“I've been a member on Moss resident on Moss Lake since 1992 and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think we live in a symbiotic relationship, and we want to keep it that way. I do think that the fees are excessive. He (City Manager Palenick) mentioned he couldn't tax us. But to me, this looks like taxation without representation. I think we've got the Boston Tea Party right here in Kings Mountain.” In a unanimous vote, the city council approved the fee increase at Moss Lake.

• Full Casino Resort Construction will then begin on the 400-room hotel and the remainder of the casino complex, which will be stacked above the ground floor. The hotel tower will be a separate structure that is connected to the casino complex to maximize the patron experience.

The casino complex will feature three levels of parking (floors 2-4), an entire floor devoted to backof-house operations and offices, and the main casino floor and restaurants on top.

• At full buildout, the main casino complex will be about 2 million square feet and feature:

• 4,300 slots

• 100 table games

• Five restaurants, including a steakhouse, Italian restaurant, marketplace buffet, café, and grab-and-go outlet

• A players’ lounge

• Six bars, including a center bar and sports bar There is no estimate at this time of when the main casino complex and hotel will be completed. After the main casino complex opens, the Introductory Casino will become the smoking section of the casino. Upon completion, the casino resort will employ an estimated 2,200 team members.

Upon opening, estimated for early 2026, the Introductory Casino will replace the current temporary facility. Employment will be at about 420 positions, which is 20 more than what is anticipated when the new table games area in the temporary casino opens this summer.

Contentment with God’s supply

TV commercials argue that you need more. More money. A better car. A larger house. A new brand of detergent. The newest iPhone 15. More. More. More. Billboards. Mobile Phone Ads. Email Banners. T Shirts. They all push new products, new experiences, new ideas, and new needs you didn’t know you had.

BRAD BRIDGES Pastor Patterson Grove Baptist Church

But do you really need more stuff? Have you ever purchased a new appliance, cell phone, or car that felt old pretty quickly after

buying it? Yep. I have too. It hurts. We all wrestle with FOMO. A Fear Of Missing Out. Advertisers compete for your attention to convince you of it. Brands want you to fear the regret of getting into the game late. We rarely stop and think about it this way. We all understand this FOMO sentiment.

What if we developed our contentment muscles on a weekly if not daily basis? What would that look like. As I’ve walked our church through the book of Philippians, I’ve found countless nuggets of truth from the apostle Paul that can help us today. Paul challenges me. I hope he challenges you too.

Paul writes, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to

be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” (Philippians 4:11-12)

He never wrote that you wouldn’t have real needs. Many people do have real needs and we should pray about how to serve them. If you are in need right now, ask God and the people you know for help? Who knows what God might provide.

Paul confidently stated that he learned contentment in all situations…even when in need. Now, why did Paul have to raise the bar so high on all of us? (Probably because the Holy Spirit inspired him and God wanted those words written for us.)

Most likely you have needs in your life. We all do. Anyone that

says they have no needs likely needs a dose of humility.

You may need friendship, finances, faith, or hope. I don’t know what you need right now. But I do know what God’s Word says to us. Paul learned to be content in all circumstances. (Even the hard ones.)

If you find yourself dealing with difficult people or flailing through financial hardship, know that people care for you and you are one phone call or visit to a church away from finding support.

But as you walk through the difficult bumps and bruises of life, take a risk today to consider what it would look like for you to remain content with God’s provision no matter what.

When we trust His provision we learn to say, “I can do this through Him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

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Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

Emmanuel Independent Baptist Church 102 Canterbury Road 704-730-7855

Faith Ablaze Church 1128 S. York Road 704-739-8496

Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road

Faith Holiness Church Hwy. 161/ Bessemer City Rd. 704-739-1997

Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206

First Baptist Church 605 W. King Street 704-739-3651

El Bethel United Methodist Church

Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member

230 Oak Grove Rd.

704-750-0171

Anew Beginning Baptist Church 145 Battleground Dr. 704-473-1372

Ardent Life

Church

420 Branch Street

704-739-7700

Arise Church 830 E. King St.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road

704-739-7487

Boyce Memorial ARP Church

Edgemont Drive

704-739-4917

122 El Bethel Rd. • Kings Mountain, NC

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

Carson Memorial Baptist Church 262 Sparrow Springs Road

704-739-2247

Central Church

113 S. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-2471

Cherokee St.

Baptist Church 421 S. Cherokee Street 704-739-7697

Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church 618 Chestnut Ridge Road 704-739-4015

Christian Freedom Southern Baptist Church 246 Range Road 704-739-4152

Christ The King Catholic Church 714 Stone Street 704-487-7697

Concord United Methodist Church 2404 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-3571

Connections Church

306 N. Piedmont Ave. 704-750-4972

Cornerstone Church Of God

202 Margrace Road 704-689-4430

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Crowders Mountain Baptist

125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310

David Baptist Church

2300 David Baptist Ch. Rd. 704-739-4555

Dixon Presbyterian Church

602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com

East Gold Street Wesleyan Church 701 E. Gold Street 704-739-3215

East Kings Mountain Church of God Hwy 161, Bessemer City/ KM Hwy. 704-739-7367

Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055

Ebenezer Baptist Church 1621 County Line Road 704-739-8331

El Bethel United Methodist Church 122 El-bethel Road 704-739-9174

First Church of the Nazarene 121 Countryside Road 704-734-1143

First Presbyterian Church 111 E. King Street 704-739-8072

First Wesleyan Church 505 N. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-4266

Galilee United Methodist 117 Galilee Church Road 704-739-7011

Gloryland Missionary Baptist Church 101 Benfield Rd. 704-740-7212

Gospel Assembly Church 202 S. Railroad Avenue 704-739-5351

Good Hope Presbyterian Church 105 N. Cansler Street 704-739-1062

Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888

Grace United Methodist Church 830 Church Street 704-739-6000

Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714

Kings Mountain Baptist Church 101 W. Mountain Street 704-739-2516

Life of Worship Ministries

405 S. Cherokee St. 704-777-2927

King’s City Church 1128 York Road 704-739-8496

Lighthouse Ministries 1908 Shelby Rd. Kings Mountain Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406

Love

Macedonia Baptist Church 1101 S. Battleground Avenue 704-739-6811

Following in her Grandfather’s footsteps

National AP Scholar

Meile Songaila plans to enter into the medical field one day. Heading to Davidson College in the fall to study Biology, she wants to eventually specialize in surgery. Meile is a 2024 graduate of KM High School and also earned her Associate in Science degree this year from Cleveland Community College. She is also a member of the Beta Club and the National Honor Society.

Meile’s love for science and medicine is in large part due to the time spent with her late grandfather, Dr. Martin Stallings. Dr. Stallings of Kings Mountain Pediatrics was a pediatrician in our town for over 40 years. His patients spanned three generations.

Dr. Stalling’s influence on Meile was profound. Much of their time together was spent reading different magazine articles, medical journals, and teaching Meile how to read cultures in his office. By age 7 she knew all the different parts of the human heart because of diagrams they made together.

This past summer Meile was an intern with Dr. Stallings at Kings Mountain Pediatrics before being selected to intern with Atrium

Health. She was one of three students from Cleveland County to be selected for this position. Meile was recently asked to continue her internship for a second summer and will be back with Atrium beginning this week.

During her time at KMHS, Meile was a Scholar Athlete. She helped lead the

volleyball team to a State Championship in 2023 and was chosen as the State Tournament MVP. Meile was named twice to the AAA All-State Team and was selected as NCHSAA’s AAA Volleyball Player of the Year for 2023. She will also be playing volleyball at D1 Davidson College in the Fall.

Echoes of Kings Mountain, an evening with Author Sharyn McCrumb

On Friday, August 9, at 6:30 pm, The Kings Mountain Historical Museum will present “Echoes of Kings Mountain,” an evening with author Sharyn McCrumb.

Sharyn McCrumb is an American writer whose books celebrate the history and folklore of Appalachia. McCrumb is the winner of numerous literary awards and the author of the Elizabeth McPherson mystery series, the Ballad series, and the St. Dale series.

The writer is best known for her Appalachian "Ballad" novels, set in the North Carolina/Tennessee mountains, including the New York Times Best Sellers: The Ballad of Tom Dooley, She Walks These Hills, and The Rosewood Casket.

"My books are like Appalachian quilts," says McCrumb. "I take brightly colored scraps of legends, ballads, fragments of rural life, and local tragedy, and I piece them together into a complex whole that tells not only a story but also a deeper truth about the culture of the mountain South."

McCrumb’s book, Kings Mountain, A Ballard Novel, is one story close to home.

In June 2015, King's Mountain received the Patricia Winn Award for Southern Fiction from the Clarksville/Montgomery County Arts & Heritage Council, Clarksville, TN. The Edward Buncombe Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Asheville, NC, also honored the novel.

King's Mountain tells the story of the Revolutionary War battle that changed the course of the war. Told from the points of view of Patriot leader John Sevier and Tory camp follower Virginia Sal, the novel brings to life the people and events in the southern front of the Revolution—a story largely ignored by the history books. John Sevier had not taken much interest in the American Revolution.

to worry much about a faroff war, but when an arrogant British officer sent a message over the mountains, threatening to burn the settlers' farms and kill their families, then the war became personal.

Homesteading in the Carolina mountains, Sevier was too busy fighting Indians and taming the wilderness

In response to that challenge, Sevier (who would become the first governor of Tennessee), Isaac Shelby (first governor of Kentucky), William Campbell (brother-in-law of VA gov-

ernor Patrick Henry), Davy Crockett's father, Robert E. Lee's father, and a thousand others raised an unpaid volunteer militia of 1,000 men.

Bringing their guns and horses and wearing their civilian clothes, the Overmountain Men defeated the Tories in 1780 at King's Mountain, west of Charlotte, in what Thomas Jefferson later called "The turning point of the American Revolution." George Washington's Continental Army had suffered a string of defeats in the north.

The Overmountain Men, with their civilian militia, proved that the British forces could be stopped, and their victory at King's Mountain inspired the colonies to fight on, ending the war precisely one year later at Yorktown.

McCrumb's other best-selling novels include The Ballad of Frankie Silver, the story of the first woman hanged for murder in the state of North Carolina, which was produced as a play in 2016 by the Parkway Playhouse

in Burnsville, NC. Ghost Riders, an account of the Civil War in the mountains of western North Carolina, won the Wilma Dykeman Award for Literature from the East Tennessee Historical Society and the Audie Award for Best Recorded Book. It was published in a new edition in March 2012 by J.F. Blair Press of Winston-Salem, NC. A theatrical version of Ghost Riders was staged in June 2014 at the Parkway Playhouse in Burnsville, NC. St. Dale, The Canterbury Tales in a NASCAR setting, in which ordinary people on a pilgrimage in honor of racing legend Dale Earnhardt find a miracle, won a 2006 Library of Virginia Award and the AWA Book of the Year Award.

The author has strong ties to the Carolinas and the Appalachian region. Educated at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a master's degree in English from Virginia Tech, McCrumb was the first writer-in-residence at King College in Tennessee.

heat until fruit juices are released, 6 to 10 minutes. Add lemon juice, stirring continuously. Add sugar and stir. Add pectin; cook and stir until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.

• Pack jam into hot, sterilized jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with lids and screw on rings finger-tight.

In 2005, she was honored as the Writer of the Year at Emory & Henry College.

The Washington Post described Sharyn McCrumb, saying, “In an earlier life, McCrumb must have been a balladeer, singing of restless spirits, star-crossed lovers, and the consoling beauty of nature. Here that older folk material acts as a refrain to the more realistic narrative... The overall effect is spellbinding.” Hosting the event, the Kings Mountain Historical Museum collects, preserves, and interprets history through exhibits, educational programs, tours, and other appropriate means to foster a deeper understanding of the history of our community and the region.

The event will occur at 100 East Mountain Street, Kings Mountain, NC. The event is free, but space is limited. You may reserve your seat online at https:// www.eventbrite.com/. For more information, call (704) 739-1019.

• Fill a slow cooker with diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Cover, and cook on high for 1 hour. Reduce heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 12 hours, or until thick and dark golden in color.

• Pack into small, freezer-safe containers leaving 3/4 inch space at the top. Store in the freezer.

REFRIGERATOR

•

•

aside.

• Combine peaches and pineapple in a large pot. Cook and stir over medium

• Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes.

APPLE BUTTER

8 apples - peeled, cored and chopped

4 cups white sugar 4 teaspoons ground

MEILE SONGAILA

DR. MARTIN STALLINGS

Boys & Girls Club 53rd Benefit Reverse Drawing and Auction

By Jack Weller

The Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County (BGCCC) is proud to uphold the traditions that have been a part of our community since the dedication of the Clubhouse in 1971. This year marks the fifty-third anniversary of the BGCCC Benefit Reverse Drawing and Auction, a testament to our enduring commitment to the children of our community.

The event, to be held on Friday, June 14, at the LeGrand Center, features a meal at 5:30 pm and the reverse drawing at 6:00 pm. The Grand Prize is a substantial $15,000 in cash, less applicable taxes. The evening also includes a silent auction and a live auction midway through the event. Prizes will be awarded to the holder of every fiftieth number drawn throughout the night, and the last five numbers drawn before the final prize will win a prize. It’s important to note that you do not have to be present to win the prize.

Phillip Philbeck, a nationally recognized artist, and Tracy Stilwell, Victorian Rose Photography Studio, continue a tradition started by Tracy’s Dad, Elwin print each year. This year marks

supported us for many years, and one of the things that is unique to our Benefit Raffle is they want the same number every year, making it a little more complicated,” explained Dr. Greene. We are fortunate to have businesses that work with us to offer prizes and provide Silent and Live Auction items each year. This year’s live auction promises an

on Father’s Day. Josh Propst, executive director of BGCCC, underscores the direct impact of your participation in the event. “Your generous contribution will provide the much-needed funds to staff the after-school sites at all eight locations, ensuring that Club Kids at the Main Club and Teen Center, as well as in elementary schools: Fallston, Casar, Springmore, Bethware, and North Elementary. Students at Elizabeth Elementary, in Shelby are served at the Main Club. BBGCC now serves over 350 children attending the After School Program daily. The Board’s challenge is increasing revenue to cover the site expenses. Your support is crucial in meeting this challenge and making a difference in the lives of these children.”

We invite you to join us on the Friday before Father’s Day for an unforgettable evening filled evening with friendly competition, delightful cakes, and a heartwarming moment. Your presence is not just a ticket purchase but a step towards a brighter future for the children served. Secure your ticket by visiting bgccleveco.org and purchasing online, or contact a board member for assistance. This event is one of three fundraising events the club sponsors each year.

Let’s come together to celebrate our legacy of empowering you, supporting families, and building a stronger community. Your involvement makes a difference – don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something special at the Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County.

Calling numbers during the reverse raffle.

Preparing to start the reverse raffle.

Climbing the wall the Tony Izzi Healthy Living Centee.

KM softball falls to South Brunswick in state championship

KMHS SOFTBALL FINAL STATS

PAC to host NC S3DA Archery State Championship

Pinnacle Classical Academy will host the North Carolina Scholastic 3-D Archery (S3DA) State Championship on Saturday, June 8, at its grade 4-12 campus on Joes Lake Rd. in Shelby. Check-in begins at 7:30 AM, with an 8:30 safety meeting and a 9:00 AM shotgun start. Concessions, including various food items, will be available during breakfast and lunch hours. The North Carolina S3DA State Championship is open to the public with

North Elementary ends the year with

By Loretta Cozart

Photo by Stacey Godfrey Smart

North Elementary ends the year with celebrations

Mrs. Deason's Class - What Made First Grade Fun. (Photos provided)

Mrs. Warlick’s Class - Our First Grade Class.

Brothers escort mom down the hall.

Students enjoy ice pops.

Out of school and have no plans… Now what?

By Loretta Cozart

Are you a young person aged 14 to 24 in Cleveland County? There are plenty of options available to you, whether you're looking for work, volunteer opportunities, or assistance in deciding what you want to do in life. NCworks provides links of interest to youth aged 14-24 who are seeking jobs or interested in continuing education beyond high school. The information includes various websites with job postings and helpful resources tailored to young people. It also covers career exploration, military service, financial aid for education, and other opportunities.

You can find information on deciding what to do after high school, choosing a career, volunteering in the community, exploring colleges and other educational programs, paying for college, joining the military, learning about national job service programs, finding social service programs for teens and adults, and locat-

ing nearby youth services.

The "Choosing a Career" section explores various methods to determine your strengths and abilities, including the ASVAB Career Exploration Program, career information for kids, career videos, job shadowing, and ApprenticeshipNC.

If college is in your future, explore colleges and other educational programs. Here, you will find more information on studentaid. gov, a College Navigator, and links to career colleges and technical schools.

You will also need to explore ways to pay for college. This section discusses Federal Student Aid FAFSA, FinAid!, College Foundation of NC, and Pell Grants.

If you are interested in a military career, visit the "Join the Military" section to learn about careers in the military and opportunities in Today’s Military. Job service programs include AmeriCorps, Job Corps, YouthBuild, the National Guard Youth Challenge Program for dropouts

aged 16 to 18, and the Registered Apprentice Program for youth aged 16 who are interested in a particular industry.

The "Social Service Opportunities" section includes programs that can help you personally, such as the Administration for Children and Families, Family and Youth Services Bureau, Benefits.gov, and the National Runaway Switchboard.

You can also locate NCWorks Youth Services nearby by visiting https:// www.ncawdb.org/local-boards/.

North Carolina’s young adults are a crucial part of the state’s workforce, and it is important that you receive the tools needed to advance your education and career.

Youth who are in school or out of school may be eligible to receive youth services. The state’s Workforce Development Boards work with schools, businesses, community organizations, and other local partners to support and fund local youth programs.

U.S. House Passes Bill to improve critical weather radar coverage for the region

Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives took decisive action by passing a bill to address the glaring weather radar gap plaguing the Charlotte metropolitan region. This critical step comes in response to long-standing concerns voiced by meteorologists operating in the area.

Charlotte is far from the nearest Doppler radar system, located in Greer, South Carolina. The absence of a nearby weather radar facility poses a significant risk to the safety of over three million people in the Charlotte region, including those in Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, and surrounding counties.

The repercussions of this radar limitation are profound. Radar systems located farther away struggle to detect weather phenomena near the ground. This deficiency translates into missed low-altitude storms and nearby tornadoes, jeopardizing the safety of the region’s residents and workers.

Recognizing the situation’s urgency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is gearing up to launch its next-generation weather radar systems. These

cutting-edge technologies aim to bridge the existing radar gap by replacing the current Next-Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) system, slated for phasing out over the next decade.

Last year, Democratic Representative Jeff Jackson responded to mounting concerns of local meteorologists, such as Brad Panovitch of WCNC-TV 36, by introducing H.R. 4912. This legislative initiative, part of The Weather Act Reauthorization, seeks to enhance regional weather radar coverage, addressing the pressing needs of the Charlotte area and beyond.

During the bill’s passage last week, Jackson remarked, “Our nearest NEXRAD radar is roughly 100 miles away, which makes it very difficult to have accurate forecasts for especially low-altitude storms and fast-moving tornadoes, so our office, at the request of these meteorologists, got to work on a piece of legislation to address this. I am very grateful that it has been included in this bill. It would address this by asking NOAA to have a plan to implement the next generation of weather radar and specif-

ically to prioritize districts, like mine, that currently exist in these blind spots, in these weather radar gaps.” The inclusion of his amendment in the bill underscores a concerted effort to prioritize regions like Charlotte, addressing critical weather radar coverage deficiencies.

Jackson emphasized, “This legislation isn’t going to just help solve this problem, but it is going to identify a number of these spots across the country and prioritize those to make sure that we have accurate forecasts across the country.” Under Jackson’s proposed amendment, NOAA would be responsible for identifying priority locations for deploying new radar systems, focusing on areas 75 or more miles away from existing radar facilities. Given that the Greer system monitoring the Charlotte region exceeds this distance by over 80 miles, Charlotte stands to benefit significantly from this initiative. In addition to local radar enhancements, the bill incorporates provisions to establish the Precipitation Prediction

See RADAR, Page 5B

Social media linked to higher teen smoking & vaping

By Loretta Cozart

A recent study has found that youngsters who spend significant time on social media are more likely to vape and smoke cigarettes. The research, published in the respiratory journal Thorax, highlights so-

cial media’s negative impact on its users, particularly young people. The study, part of the U.K. Household Longitudinal Study conducted from 2015 to 2021, examined the habits of 10,808 individuals aged 10 to 25. Researchers discovered a strong

correlation between time spent on social media and the likelihood of smoking and vaping. Young people who spend more than seven hours a day on social media are eight times more likely to smoke and four times more likely to vape compared to non-users, according

to the study. This study reinforces concerns about the powerful marketing influence of these platforms.

Currently, just over 8.5% of those studied reported smoking cigarettes, 2.5% said they vape, and slightly over 1% indicated they do both. The data reveals

that as social media usage increases, so does the likelihood of smoking and vaping.

For example, only 2% of non-social media users smoke, compared to 9.2% of those who use social media for 1-3 hours a day, 12.2% of those on social media for 4-6 hours a day, and 15.7% for those who spend seven or more hours a day online.

The study showed a similar correlation for vaping. Only 0.8% of non-social media users vape, while 2.4% of those who use social media for 1-3 hours a day, 3.8% of those online for 4-6 hours a day, and 4% of those spending seven or more hours a day on social media reported vaping.

contain various metals. The researchers cite studies linking increased metal exposure to cognitive impairment, behavioral issues, respiratory problems, cancer, and cardiovascular disease in children.

Among 200 exclusive vapers surveyed (63% female), 65 reported occasional use, 45 intermittent use, and 81 frequent use, with vaping frequency data missing for 9 participants. The average number of puffs per day increased with vaping frequency: occasional users took 0.9 puffs, intermittent users 7.9 puffs, and frequent users 27 puffs.

The likelihood of smoking, vaping, and dual use rose in tandem with the amount of time spent on social media. Those spending less than an hour a day on social media were 92% more likely to smoke compared to non-users, while those clocking in seven or more hours a day were more than 3.5 times as likely to be current smokers.

Similarly, those who spent 1-3 hours a day on social media were 92% more likely to vape compared to non-users. Those spending seven or more hours a day on social media were nearly three times as likely to report current vaping.

Heavier social media use also corresponded with a higher likelihood of dual use. Individuals who spent 1-3 hours a day on social media were more than three times as likely to be dual users as non-users.

The findings underscore the need for awareness and potential regulatory measures to address the influence of social media on youth smoking and vaping habits. The health risks of teen smoking are well documented. Vaping offers new additional concerns, especially for kids and young adults.

Increased vaping by youth is particularly troubling. Another study released in March suggests that frequent teen vaping may increase the risk of exposure to harmful metals like lead and uranium, potentially affecting brain and organ development. The research, published in Tobacco Control, highlights the urgent need for regulations and prevention efforts aimed at teens.

Researchers stress the popularity of vaping among teenagers. In 2022, approximately 14% of U.S. high school students—around 2.14 million—and over 3% of middle school students—around 380,000—reported vaping in the past month.

E-cigarette aerosols and liquids have been found to

“Candy-flavored e-cigarette products make up a substantial proportion of adolescent vapers,” the study notes, adding that “sweet taste in e-cigarettes can suppress the harsh effects of nicotine and enhance its reinforcing effects, resulting in heightened brain cue-reactivity.” These products are often present in social media content.

The researchers conclude that “e-cigarette use during adolescence may increase the likelihood of metal exposure, which could adversely affect brain and organ development.” They call for further research, vaping regulation, and targeted public health interventions to mitigate potential harms, particularly among adolescents.

In light of the increased vaping and smoking risks, teenagers are spending significant amounts of time on social media. According to an April report by the American Psychological Association, the average teen spends 4.8 hours a day on seven popular social media apps, with YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram accounting for 87% of their social media time. Specifically, 37% of teens spend five or more hours a day, 14% spend four to less than five hours, 26% spend two to less than four hours, and 23% spend less than two hours on these three apps.

A 2022 survey by the Mayo Clinic, which included around 1,300 responses from 13- to 17-year-olds, found that 35% of teens use at least one of five social media platforms—YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat—several times a day.

The increasing use of social media among teens, combined with the popularity of vaping, underscores the need for greater awareness and preventive measures to protect young people’s overall health.

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 29th of May, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of DORIS ANN WILSON (24 E 438), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Sandra W. Johnson, Executrix on or before the 5th of September 2024, 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 5th day of June, 2024.

Sandra W. Johnson, Executrix Estate of Doris Ann Wilson 1723 Chatfield Rd Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (6/05,12, 19, & 26/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 23rd of May, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of THELMA CHRISTINE HOLT (24 E 1077), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Munro Lebby Boinest III, Executor on or before the 29th of August, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 29th day of May, 2024.

Munro Lebby Boinest III, Executor

Estate of Thelma Christine Holt 124 Ridge Crest Dr. Cherryville, NC 28021

KMH (5/29, 6/05, 12 & 19/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE OF EXECUTOR

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Robert C. Shell deceased, late of Cleveland County, hereby notifies all persons having claims against this estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 23rd day of August, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to this estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May, 2024.

Andrea Shell, Executor

Robert C. Shell, II, Executor

Estate of Robert C. Shell

c/o John H. Griffing

Griffing Leazer, PLLC

Attorneys for Estate

615 S. New Hope Road Gastonia, NC 28054

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of May, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of HELEN SAIN FRANKLIN (24 E 372), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Grady Franklin, Jr., Executor on or before the 15th of August, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 15th day of May, 2024.

Grady Franklin, Jr., Executor

Estate of Helen Sain Franklin 197 Franklin Road Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/05/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of May, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of REBECCA CLAYTON HEAFNER (20 E 732), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Alex Lee Heafner, Executor on or before the 15th of August, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 15th day of May, 2024.

Alex Lee Heafner, Executor

Estate of Rebeca Clayton Heafner

297 Boys Camp Rd Lake Lure, NC 28746

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/05/2024)

EPA Issues urgent Cybersecurity Alert to guard community drinking water systems

On May 20, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an enforcement alert outlining the urgent cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities to community drinking water systems and the steps these systems need to take to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act. The alert is part of a government-wide effort – led by the National Security Council and the Department of

Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency – to reduce the nation's infrastructure and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. EPA is issuing this alert because threats to, and attacks on, the nation's water system have increased, and additional action is critical.

Cyberattacks against community water systems (CWSs) are increasing in frequency and severity na-

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on 14th of May, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of Dianne M. Setzer (24 E 431), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to Robert Anthony Setzer, Administrator c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before August 22, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May, 2024.

Robert Anthony Setzer

Administrator of the Estate of Dianne M. Setzer

c/o A. Susan Biggers

Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (5/22, 29, 6/06 & 13/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 28th of May 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Carolyn Josey (24 E 433), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to A. Susan Biggers, Administratrix, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before September 5, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 5th day of June, 2024.

A. Susan Biggers

Administratrix of the Estate of Carolyn Josey Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (6/05,12, 19, & 26/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of May, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of CHRISTINE D.SHUFORD; AKA, CHRISTINE DAVIS SHUFORD (24 E 355), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Thomas Clinton Shuford, Administrator on or before the 15th of August 2024, 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 15th day of May, 2024.

Thomas Clinton Shuford, Administrator Estate of Christine D. Shuford; aka, Christine Davis Shuford 4417 Hoover Rd. Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/05/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of CECELIA R. GALLENTINE (24 E 133), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Scott Deal, Administrator on or before the 5th of September 2024, 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 5th day of June, 2024.

Scott Deal, Administrator

Estate of Cecelia R. Gallentine

200 Joshua PL NW #37 Concord, NC 28027

KMH (6/05, 12, 19 & 26/2024)

tionwide. Based on actual incidents, we know that a cyberattack on a vulnerable water system may allow an adversary to manipulate operational technology, which could cause significant adverse consequences for both the utility and drinking water consumers. Possible impacts include disrupting the treatment, distribution, and storage of water for the community, damaging pumps and valves, and altering the levels of chemicals to hazardous amounts. Implementing basic cyber hygiene practices can help your utility prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents. Because water utilities often rely on computer software to operate their treatment plants and distribution systems, protecting information technology and process control systems from cyberattacks is vital. Small water systems are not immune from cyberattacks. Recent disruptive cyberattacks from adversarial nation states have impacted water systems of all sizes, including many small ones. As a result of these increased threats, EPA is increasing its enforcement activity to protect our nation’s drinking water.

"Protecting our nation's drinking water is a cornerstone of EPA's mission, and we are committed to using every tool, including our enforcement authorities, to ensure that our nation's drinking water is protected from cyberattacks," said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. "EPA’s new enforcement alert is the latest step that the Biden-Harris Administration is taking to ensure communities understand the urgency and severity of cyberattacks and water systems are ready to address these serious threats to our nation’s public health.”

Recent EPA inspections have revealed that the majority of water systems inspected – over 70 percent – do not fully comply with requirements in the Safe Drinking Water Act and that some of those systems have critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities, such as default passwords that have not been updated and single logins that can easily be compromised. As EPA and its state and federal security and intelligence partners continue to identify vulnerabilities, informed by successful cyberattacks on water systems across the United States, the agency remains See ALERT, Page 5B

PUBLIC NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on 2nd of May 2024 as Executor of the Estate of Virginia Smith Hamrick (24 E 297), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to William Harvey Whisnant, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before August 15, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 15th day of May, 2024.

William Harvey Whisnant Executor of the Estate of Virginia Smith Hamrick c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/05/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on 14th of May, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of Iris Nora Rose (16 E 874), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to Joe Beauchamp Rose, Jr., Administrator c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before August 22, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May, 2024.

Joe Beauchamp Rose, Jr. Administrator of the Estate of Iris Nora Rose c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (5/22, 29, 6/06 & 13/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JEWEL LYNETTE WILSON (24 E 325), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Jordan Wilson Ellis, Administrator on or before the 29th of August 2024, 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 29th day of May, 2024.

Jordan Wilson Ellis, Administrator

Estate of Jewel Lynette Wilson 6217 Round Hill Road

Charlotte, NC 28211

Counsel for Estate J. Charles Hoyle, Attorney

207 Hoyle’s Road

Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (5/29, 6/05, 12 & 19/2024)

Permanent traffic pattern changes effective June 1

Permanent traffic pattern changes around the intersection of NC-180 (N Post Road) and NC-150 (Cherryville

Road) started Saturday, June 1. The new route for NC180 will begin just south of the intersection of NC-180

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: JAMES PRESTON CARRIGAN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 16th day of May, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of JAMES PRESTON CARRIGAN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Co-Administrators on or before the 7th day of September, 2024 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 June, 2024.

Kimberly Carrigan Ford, Co-Adm.

707 Bethlehem Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

James P.Carrigan, Jr., Co-Adm. 121 Elmarg Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.,

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KMH (6/5, 6/12, 6/19 & 6/26/24)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: JACQUELINE M. ANDREW, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 15th day of May, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of JACQUELINE M. ANDREW, deceased, late of Duval County, Florida, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administratrix on or before the 24th day of August, 2024 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 22nd day of May, 2024.

Joyce Andrew Veronese, Admin. 21 Carnoustie Trail Greensboro, NC 27407

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/24)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: CHARLES PRESTON ANDREW, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 15th day of May, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of CHARLES PRESTON ANDREW, deceased, late of Duval County, Florida, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administratrix on or before the 24th day of August, 2024 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 22nd day of May, 2024.

Joyce Andrew Veronese, Admin. 21 Carnoustie Trail Greensboro, NC 27407

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/24)

NOTICE

PUBLIC

CITY OF KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2024-2025

The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 to be effective July 1, 2024 for the City of Kings Mountain has been presented to the City Council and is available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall, 101 West Gold Street during normal business hours and on the City’s website at www.cityofkm.com

There will be a Public Hearing on Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall for the purpose of discussing the proposed budget. The public will have the opportunity to make comments regarding the proposed budget during the public hearing.

Karen A. Tucker City Clerk

KMH (5/29 & 6/5/2024)

/ Airport Road (near Spake Concrete) and tie back into the existing NC-180, about 1800 feet south of the existing intersection of NC-180 / NC150 (near Alli's Cafe).

Traffic will be temporarily halted at both ends of the new roadway to switch to the newly constructed NC-180 alignment. Additionally, traffic will be briefly halted on NC-150 to allow the traffic signal to be turned off and old lanes to be closed. The new alignment will utilize a roundabout at the new intersection of NC-180 / NC-150. For additional information, please visit: https:// drivenc.gov/

RADAR

From Page 3B

Grand Challenge as a permanent program at NOAA. This initiative strives to bolster precipitation forecasting capabilities, enhancing emergency preparedness and response measures.

Meteorologists eagerly anticipate the implementation of these measures, recognizing their profound impact on bolstering weather

monitoring capabilities in the region. Last week’s ferocious storms underscored the critical need for accurate and timely weather radar coverage, unleashing chaos across the region. The onslaught of powerful winds and relentless rain led to a cascade of fallen trees, property damage, widespread power outages affecting over 100,000 energy customers, and two fatalities.

PUBLIC HEARING MONDAY, JUNE 17TH

There will be a Public Hearing for the proposed 20242025 Budget of $2,871,404 for the Kings Mountain ABC Board on Monday, June 17, 2024 at 5:30pm at the Kings Mountain ABC store at 220 Cleveland Avenue. The meeting is open to the public and a copy of the proposed budget is available for the inspection in the office of the board’s general manager Ailene Ormand.

KMH (6/05/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 30th of April, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of EDWARD ROBERT GELDREICH (24 E 384), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Evelyn Dowling, Executrix on or before the 22nd of August 2024, 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 22nd day of May, 2024.

Evelyn Dowling, Executrix

Estate of Edward Robert Geldreich

424 Rollingbrook Road

Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Counsel for the Estate

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (5/22, 29, 6/06 & 13/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

In the Matter of the Estate of: Shirley M. Melton, deceased. File No. 24 E 184

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Shirley M. Melton, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Shirley M. Melton to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Anna B. Melton, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 29th day of August, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 29th day of May, 2024.

Anna B. Melton, Administrator of the Estate, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC

405 E. Marion Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (5/29, 6/5, 6/12 & 6/19/2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: Steven Lee Talbert, deceased. File No. 24 E 430

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Steven Lee Talbert, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Steven Lee Talbert to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Daniel R. Talbert, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 22nd day of August, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May, 2024. Daniel R. Talbert, Executor of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/2024)

ALERT

(From 4B)

committed to working with state and sector organization partners to protect drinking water for communities successfully.

Today's alert emphasizes the importance of EPA’s ongoing inspection and enforcement activities under Safe Drinking Water Act section 1433. The agency will increase the number of planned inspections and, where appropriate, will take civil and criminal enforcement actions, including responding to a situation that may present an imminent and substantial endangerment. Inspections will ensure that water systems meet their requirements to regularly assess resilience vulnerabilities, including cybersecurity, and develop emergency response plans. In addition, EPA, CISA, and the FBI strongly recommend system operators take steps outlined in Top Actions for Securing Water Systems:

• Reduce exposure to public-facing internet.

• Conduct regular cybersecurity assessments.

• Change default passwords immediately.

• Conduct an inventory of OT/IT assets.

• Develop and exercise cybersecurity incident response and recovery plans.

• Backup OT/IT systems.

• Reduce exposure to vulnerabilities.

• Conduct cybersecurity awareness training.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan also recently sent a letter to the nation’s governors on the urgency of the threats and the importance of collaboration across federal and state partners to develop comprehensive strategies to close gaps in cyber-resilience. Following the meeting, the National Security Council encouraged each state to prepare an action plan presenting the state’s approach to mitigate the most significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the state’s water and wastewater systems by late June. EPA is also moving forward with the Water Sector Coordinating Council and Water Government Coordinating Council to establish a Task Force to identify additional near-term actions and strategies to reduce the risk of water and wastewater systems nationwide to cyberattacks. EPA is committed to providing cybersecurity technical assistance to the water sector, allowing systems direct access to subject matter experts who can help them better understand cybersecurity concepts. Additionally, EPA and CISA will continue to offer guidance, tools, training, resources, and technical assistance to help water systems execute these essential tasks. EPA will also continue to conduct cyber assessments for small water systems under the Cybersecurity Evaluation program.

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

JONETH G. TERRY, having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of PATSY MCINTYRE GOODE, [Cleveland County Estate File No: 21E000532], late of 3235 CLIFFSIDE RD., MOORESBORO, NC 28114, CLEVELAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, through her undersigned Attorney, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 112 S. TRYON STREET, SUITE 700, CHARLOTTE, NC 28284, on or before August 22nd, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate shall immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May, 2024.

Gregory S. McIntyre, Esq. Attorney for Joneth G. Terry, Executrix McIntyre Elder Law 112 S Tryon Street Suite 700 Charlotte, NC 28284

KMH (5/22, 29, 6/06 & 13/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of February, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of EARL CLOUSTON WEASE, JR. (24 E 118), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Lori Ann Wease, Administratrix on or before the 15th of August 2024, 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 15th day of May, 2024.

Lori Ann Wease, Administratrix

Estate of Earl Clouston Wease, Jr.

141 Howser Dr. Casar, NC 28020

Counsel for the Estate McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/06/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 25th of April, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of CATHY JANE WARREN (24 E 370), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Melissa Pearson, Administratrix on or before the 15th of August 2024, 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 15th day of May, 2024.

Melissa Pearson, Administratrix

Estate of Cathy Jane Warren

1784 Idlewild Dr. Shelby, NC 28152

Counsel for the Estate McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (5/15, 22, 29 & 6/06/2024)

BUSINESS

SERVICES

TONEY’S PLUMBING REPAIR. Tub, faucet installation, kitchen lavatory installation, hot water heater repair/replace, drain clean. All work guaranteed. 828-223-0332.

MCNEILLY TREE SERVICE & LAND MANAGEMENT. Tree Removal, Trimming, Demolition, Land Clearing, Firewood, Hauling Services, Debris Removal. Free Estimates. (704) 472-3766

704-297-0102 or 704-2970103

CHRISTIAN EX-CONS VS. COPS SOFTBALL Game Saturday, June 1; 10:30am Crowe Park; 267 Crowe Park Drive, Forest City. All proceeds to House of Deliverance- a shelter for women. $5 adult, $2 child. We will have food vendors. Come have fun and support a great cause. Info: 828-748-0609.

REUNIONS

BURNS HIGH CLASS OF 1974. 50th Class Reunion, Saturday, August 24, 2024. Cost: $50 per person. RSVP required. Contact: Beachmsj@yahoo.com Deadline July 24 (704) 5383988

POOLE REUNION, JUNE

9TH. Belwood Community Center - Bring a smile and well filled basket. Lunch approx. 1 PM.

EMPLOYMENT

LIVE IN CAREGIVER. Free room and $100 per week to care for 91 yr old male with dementia. Background and references verified. (828) 5144377 teresagash1@bellsouth. net

NOW HIRING LANDSCAPERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341

BUSINESS SERVICES

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, 704692-4449.

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

HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 6921097

PAINTING, ROOFING, TILE FLOORS, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Ask for Harold or Jim 828-429-7511.

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

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

FOR SALE

CEMETERY PLOTS - ROSE

HILL. $1500.00. Rose Hill Memorial Park, Lawndale, NC. Lot #428, Section 2. Number of graves - 2 (3 & 4). Seller pays deed transfer fee. (704) 915-1972

I SUPPORT TRUMP 2024 GIFTS. Visit the Online Mall at www.NC4Ever.com to see the I Support Trump 2024 Gifts NC4Ever@USA.com

METAL BURNING BARRELS $10. Feed Barrels 55 & 30 Gallon $20. Plastic & metal solid top barrels $10. TotesClean $75. John Deere Riding Mower, 180 hours $2500 Firm. Call Jeff (Hickory). (828) 327-4782

DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 4774766

USED CAMPER TOPS FOR SALE: Various sizes and styles. Keep it dry and safe! 828-351-8846.

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER

TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704482-2243. (704) 538-5788

CASE XX HAWK BILLS IN STOCK! 1 OZ. SILVER BARS & ROUNDS Available (While Supplies Last)* Plus: More KNIVES•KNIVES•KNIVES at Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Large On Site Display”. Concrete Pads, Grading, Plumbing, Electrical. “One Stop Shop For All !” J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, 2690 Hwy. 221 South. (828) 245-5895

FOR SALE

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

CARPORTS, GARAGES,

BOAT, RV COVER HAY BARNS, Etc. “Check Out Our Price Before You Buy... There Is Difference!” J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 2455895

STORAGE BUILDINGS

WOOD OR METAL. New, Used, Repo. New Buildings from $3756.00. Inventory changes weekly! J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

NEW MAJESTIC POWER

FOLDING WHEELCHAIR, $2000 obo. Suzuki digital piano and bench, $900. (704) 538-2022

TINY HOUSE / OFFICE UNIT. 12’ X 28’. Small Kitchen, 1/2 Bath, TV on Wall, Heat & Air.

$35,900. Deliver & Blocked. “Financing Available”. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City. (828) 245-5895

INVACARE MANUAL WHEELCHAIR. $129 with ELRs, less without. 250 lb capacity. Call Scooterman John, delivery available (704) 9514224 mobilityservices07@ gmail.com

METAL ROOFING FOR SALE INSTOCK! Deliveries

Twice A Week. One Piece or the Whole Roof. J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 2455895

SHIPPING CRATE $35.00.

Wood shipping crates for sale with some lids. 3 different sizes. I can send pictures. I have a few smaller crates ideal for planter. (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

TRAILERS NEW5X10 WITH GATE $1395. Areas Largest Trailer Inventory, Equipment, Dumps, Landscape, Enclosed, Gooseneck “New & Used”. Best Cash Deals Around, Credit Cards, Financing, Rent to Own, No Credit Check Available. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City. (828) 245-5895

AUTOMATIC TOILET BOWL

CLEANER Great Deal!Click on www.ShelbyNCUSA. com and see Items For Sale This Week NC4Ever@usa. com

PLANTS FOR SALE. 20 different Hosta plants, Iris-different colors, Daylilies, Dogwood and Cherry trees. Call 828245-0245.

FOR SALE

TREK BIKES FOR SALE. 2022 Women’s and Men’s Trek Bikes for Sale. $400 each. Call 704-418-9331

BROWN COUCH WITH RECLINERS ON EACH END.

$125. Under counter microwave $80. Cherry Dinette table $32. (704) 538-3285

DOREL HOME PRODUCTS. Metal Bunk Bed. Twin/Full $70. (828) 447-8913

OLD SCHOOL GAS JUGS. 5 gallon, a 2.5 gallon and 1 gallon. These are old school filler necks with air release ports. $20, $15, $10. Only have TWO 5 gallon ones left! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

TOOL BUSINESS FOR SALE. Self employed tool Business for sale! No partial sells. Call to set up appointment to view. Only serious buyers call. (704) 418-0938

TRAILER FOR SALE 2005 white closed-in trailer. $1,000. 704-466-5602. NEW-USED TRAILERS PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR ALL TYPES OF TRAILERS. 1500 Square Feet of Parts, Axles, Tires, Lights, Gates, Ramps, etc. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, (828) 245-5895 VERY NICE M1 GRAND 30-06 RIFLE. For more info, (704) 487-1205

1996 EDDIE BOYER BLACK TRUCK. Has been wrecked. Use for parts. $500 or OBO. 704-466-5602.

PLANTS FOR SALE. Banana Trees, Lirope grass and ground covers. Call Rita. 828245-7860. Can leave message.

FOR SALE Samsung Top Load Washer and Front Load Dryer. $400 for both. 704-231-8645.

SECTIONAL COUCH, GRAY. Like new. Paid $1600, will take $1000. Perfect condition. 602-295-3448.

FOR SALE

AMANA WASHER, 1 YEAR OLD, $250. Bravos dryer

$100. GE refrigerator $125. Electric space heater $30. 828-289-5242.

WANT TO BUY

OLD SPORT CARDS, COMICS, MAGAZINES, Books, Toys, Games & Memorabilia - Any collectables older than 1980 (704) 750-1821 vintagebosko@gmail.com

WANTED WOOD STOVE. Papa Bear type or similar. Paying Cash. Please call Don, Rutherfordton. (843) 5825909

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

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

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

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 4720006

FARM & GARDEN

SQUARE BALES OF GRASS

HAY. $5 per bale in field, will help load. Call now for baling date. 704-482-6010, 704-4186080.

HAY BALES FOR SALE. Good grass, 4x5 large hay bales. $50 each. 828-4294900.

BOATS

1980 MASTER CRAFT STAR & Stripes. New motor, refurbished with trailer. Ready for the water. $7500. (704) 4722854

PETS & LIVESTOCK

BOXER PUP FOR SALE. Female pup, shots/ deworming, seal(black) and white markings $500 firm w/ papers (704) 477-3900 FREE CATS AND KITTENS. Free to a good home. 1 male and 1 female cat. 4 kittens also available. 704-562-0370.

CKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPY FOR SALE. Female puppy looking for her forever home. Red and black, she has 1st and 2nd shots, dewormed and physical by Boulevard Animal Hospital in Shelby. She loves to cuddle. Discount for military and first responders. $500 (704) 734-7088 joelovestina1@gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

TWO SWEET DOGS. Free to good home only. Emerald, female 1-1/2 yrs. old and Negan, male, about 8 months old. Both are part pitt and part dachshund. Crate/kennel trained. Owner is allergic and I’m taking care of them to find a good home. I have two dogs already and can not afford four. (704) 418-3799

SHIH

PETS & LIVESTOCK

DOG KENNELS. 5X10X6, 10x10x4, 10x10x6, 10x20x6. Single Kennel, Double Kennel or Triple Kennel. Dog Houses. Rain Tops Available. “Pickup or Delivery Available.” J. Johnson Sales, Forest City (828) 245-5895

PHARAOH QUAILS. $3 and up. Call (704) 482-0178

GOATS FOR SALE All ages. Males-$100, Females-$125. Free farm eggs. 704-466-5602.

MATING LOVEBIRDS AND CAGE, $125. Mating Finches and cage, $100. (704) 538-2022

GREAT PYRENEES PUPS 5 Females, 3 males. Ready May 26th. Full blooded. Parents on site. $250/ea., but with 1st shots-$275. Also, Nigerian Draft Goats-$125. 704-477-9367.

CKC REGISTERED F1

PUREBRED GOLDENDOODLE PUPPIES FOR SALE. Males and females are still available. Puppies will be vaccinated and CKC Registration paperwork with full breeding rights is available. Mom can be viewed on site! Make your deposit now before they are all gone! Beth 704-466-8615 or Jamie (980) 295-8512

DOBERMAN PINSCHER PUPPIES. Born 3/04/2024. Black/ Rust and Red/Rust. Shots, wormed, tails docked and dew claws removed. Males and Females, CKC Registration available. SALE! $550 each. TEXT: 864 490 8447 bdobermans@gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FULL BLOODED BASSET HOUND PUPS. Ready for new home! Wormed, no shots. 2 females, no papers, $300ea. 828-289-1258.

BEAUTIFUL BOSTON TERRIER PUPPIES. Two litters of Boston Terrier puppies looking for loving homes. I have both AKC & CKC registered. They will have a vet health check 1st shots and dewormed. One of the most loyal & playful breeds! $700 (704) 616-6114 DENISEBROWN344@GMAIL.COM

KOI FISH FOR SALE. All colors; short and long fin; 3”-4” fish $1.; larger fish $5.-$10. (864) 546-2778 brendasherman9@gmail.com

KUNE KUNE PIGLETS FOR SALE. 8 weeks old. $100$150 each. WILSON FARM. Call for info (704) 349-3378

HENS FOR SALE. 4 TypesBrahma, Ameraucana, Red Producer & Cochins $30 each. Call (828) 289-7719

CARS & TRUCKS

1985 CHEVROLET CHEVETTE. White, 144,000 miles, Lots of new parts. Needs parts $5000 (704) 300-9223

1985 CHEVROLET S-10.

2,800 street driven miles. $35000, Pro-Street, 383 Engine, 400 A/T, A/C. (828) 606-5630 ronbrhodes@ gmail.com

CARS & TRUCKS

1998 FORD F-250 STANDARD. 173,000 miles, with ladder rack and tool boxes. Cold A/C. New battery and wipers. Ready to roll! $6150. Call (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

2006 FORD ECONOLINE CARGO VAN E-250 Utility Van. Has ladder rack and tool & supply racks with Buckhead gate behind driver seat. Cold A/C . Automatic. New Battery & Wiper Blades. $7900. Call (704) 300-1818

1978 MG B ROADSTER CONVERTIBLE. 101,823 miles, $8000, Runs Well, Well Maintained, Body & Paint In Good Condition, Good Tires w/ little mileage. Top Replaced, Alternator Replaced, Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump & Sending Unit Replaced, Truespark 45D Electronic Distributor. Radiator Replaced, Window & Windshield Seals Replaced, Engine & Transmission Mounts Replaced, Clutch Rebuilt, New Top Cover, New Battery, Weber Carb, Interior redone, Full Tonneau, RoStyle Wheels (Good Condition), Pioneer AM/FM/MP3 Stereo, Kicker Speakers, Clear Title. $8000 obo or trade for Jeep Wrangler, C7 or CJ5. (704) 472-3997 rkaylor1115@ gmail.com

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

2015 POLARIS SPORTS-

MAN 300. I have a 2015 Polaris sportsman 300 for sell, has low miles, great shape and has been garage kept! $4000. Lenoir, NC. (704) 2143606 truckin4alivin@protonmail.com

MOBILE HOMES

14X58, 2 BEDROOM, 1

BATH SINGLEWIDE mobile home. In Rutherford County, MUST BE MOVED! Great condition, title in hand, $5000 OBO. 828-305-1071

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

POLK COUNTY

SUNNYVIEW, NC FOR SALE BY OWNER. Convenient location, 4.5 acre lot on quiet country road. $55,000 with owner financing available. 828-429-3287.

REAL ESTATE

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

MAKING HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY!. 2 bed, 2 bath Mobile Home — $7500 Down and $898.46/month. 1/3 acre Lot! Central AC/Heat, Laundry Hookups $49,999. This is a RENT TO OWN home! (828) 544-0900 craig@blueridgemobilehomepark.com

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704-739-0259. (704) 739-2059

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: Brenda Carolyn Gardner 24 E 43

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Brenda Carolyn Gardner of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Brenda Carolyn Gardner to present them to the undersigned by August 29, 2024, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 29th day of May, 2024.

Hal Max Gardner, Jr. 1003 Warlick Rd. Lawndale, NC 28090 Administrator of the Estate of Brenda Carolyn Gardner John V. Schweppe, III

THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204

KMH (5/29, 6/5, 6/12 & 6/19/24)

NO. 24 E 419

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: EVELYN C. HODGE ELLIOTT.

Having qualified on May 10, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Evelyn C. Hodge Elliott, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Evelyn C. Hodge Elliott to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Chyrl E. Hood, c/o Nichóle B. Greene, Greene Law Offices, PLLC, 806 North Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 23rd day of August, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 22nd day of May 2024

Chryl E. Hood, Executrix of the Estate c/o Nichóle B.Greene Greene Law Offices, PLLC 807 North Lafayette Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: Jean Grissom Lail, Deceased 24 E 605

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Jean Grissom Lail of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Jean Grissom Lail to present them to the undersigned by August 29, 2024, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 29th day of May, 2024.

Carolyn Lail Morris 223 London Rd. Lawndale, NC 28090

Executor of the Estate of Jean Grissom Lail

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A. Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204

KMH (5/29, 6/5, 6/12 & 6/19/24)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 24 E 268

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:

ROBERT LEE WRIGHT, DECEASED.

Having qualified March 25, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Robert Lee Wright, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Robert Lee Wright to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Teressa Knight, c/o Nichóle B. Greene, Greene Law Offices, PLLC, 806 North Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 23rd day of August, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May 2024

Teressa Knight, Executrix of the Estate c/o Nichóle B. Greene Greene Law Offices, PLLC 807 North Lafayette Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/2024)

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. Weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299 30/50AMP CAMPER LOT W/CONCRETE PAD. $150 weekly, Power/water included. Country/residential feel. 14’x40’ pad for set up. 1213 Lavender Rd., Grover, NC. Call today 704-743-6103 (704) 743-6103

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK In the Matter of the Estate of: Paula Lynn Sundell 24 E 315

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Paula Lynn Sundell of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Paula Lynn Sundell to present them to the undersigned by August 29, 2024, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 29th day of May, 2024.

Eric Todd Sundell 1105 Mooresboro Road Shelby, NC 28150

Executor of the Estate of Paula Lynn Sundell

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

Post Office Box 1269

Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204

KMH (5/29, 6/5, 6/12 & 6/19/24)

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 24 E 403 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: MAUDE MCSWAIN WHISNANT, DECEASED. Having qualified May 6, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Maude McSwain Whisnant, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Maude McSwain Whisnant to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Beth White, c/o Nichóle B. Greene, Greene Law Offices, PLLC, 806 North Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 23rd day of August, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of May 2024.

Beth White, Executrix of the Estate c/o Nichóle B. Greene Greene Law Offices, PLLC 806 North Lafayette Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (5/22, 5/29, 6/5 & 6/12/2024)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Boating safely this summer

The Wildlife Commission is encouraging boaters to explore and enjoy North Carolina's many beautiful waters responsibly by taking the following precautions:

• Appoint a designated driver for the boat. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and is just as dangerous as driving a car impaired.

• Assign an adult “Water

Watcher” to actively supervise children in or around the water at all times. Young children and people who are not strong swimmers should always be kept within arm’s reach.

• Swim only in designated areas. You are more visible to boaters and less vulnerable to accidents. Avoid diving in unfamiliar areas, as there may be hidden structures.

• Always wear a life jacket or Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD). Put your life jacket on prior to entering the boat, and make sure it's snug yet comfortable and will not move above the chin or ears when lifted at the shoulders.

• Throw, don’t go. Be prepared to throw a floatation device or use a pole or tree branch to reach some-

one struggling in the water. Never jump in to save someone because you could go under, too.

Attend a boater safety course. The Wildlife Commission offers boating education classes. If you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, you must complete an approved course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater.

ALL IN BLOOM WORD SEARCH

way, acted

Things to see

Nursemaid

Type of tooth

To be demonstrated

Defunct European group

How

Dear Savvy Senior, I was recently notified that the Affordable Connectivity Program, which subsidizes my monthly internet bill, is about to end. What are my options for finding affordable home internet services now? I’m 71 years old and live primarily on my Social Security benefits.

Barely Getting By

Dear Barely,

It’s unfortunate, but without additional funding from Congress, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is winding down and will end in mid-May.

For those that aren’t familiar with this program, the ACP is a government benefit that has provided millions of financially eligible households with a discount of up to $30 per month toward their home internet service, or up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.

The ACP was initially born out of a pandemic-era program called the Emergency Broadband Benefit in 2021 and replaced six months later by the longer-term ACP when Congress devoted $14.2 billion to the program as part of the Infrastructure Investment

and Jobs Act.

More than 23 million households are currently enrolled in the ACP which has significantly helped close the digital divide, as affordability has been the primary barrier that has kept most ACP beneficiaries from getting home internet services. But funds are almost out, and a sharply divided Congress has chosen not to continue funding the program, unless they change their mind in the 11th hour.

What to Do Now?

A good first step in securing affordable

home internet services is to contact your current provider to find out if they offer any other discounts or low-cost services that fit your budget.

If not, you should shop around. The nonprofit organization EveryoneOn has a National Offer Locator Tool that can help you find low-income discounted internet services from providers in your area. Just go to EveryoneOn.org/ find-offers, type in your ZIP code and answer a few questions regarding your household financial situation so the internet services you’re eligible for can be located.

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column, and each 3 by 3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9 using logic.

By JIM MILLER Editor

Some cities and states across the country are also offering their own local versions of the ACP to help low-income households pay their internet. The best way to look for these services is by going to Google and searching for “(location) internet resources.”

Check Lifeline Benefit

If you haven’t already done so, you also need to find out if you’re eligible for the Lifeline program. Unlike the ACP, Lifeline is a permanently funded federal assistance program that provides a $9.25 monthly subsidy that can help pay your home internet, phone or bundled services (up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands). Only one benefit is available per household.

To qualify, your annual household income must be at or below 135 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, which is $19,683 for one person or $26,622 for two. Or, if you’re receiving certain types of government benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, public housing assistance, veterans’ pension or survivors pension benefit, or live on federally recognized Tribal lands.

You can apply for Lifeline online at LifelineSupport.org, via mail or

through your internet or phone provider. Or, if you need assistance call their support line at 800-234-9473.

Other Options

If you find that you aren’t eligible for any of the lower-income services, you may still be able to save on your internet by shopping and comparing.

The best way to do this is at websites like InMyArea.com, which provides a list of internet providers in your area, along with pricing and download speeds. Most providers offer plans under $50 monthly, and you can often find additional discounts for things like bundling with a cellphone plan or signing an annual contract.

Another way to save some money is to buy your own equipment. Most internet service providers charge around $15 per month to rent a modem and router from them. But you can buy your own for as little as $100, which will pay for itself within the first year.

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.