KM Herald 11-23-22

KM Christmas Parade Saturday, December 3

Join your friends downtown as the city presents the Kings Mountain Christmas Parade, December 3 at 3 p.m.

The parade will line-up at 1:00 p.m. on East Gold Street near Mountain Rest Cemetery, proceed downtown and turn right on up South Battleground Avenue and right on US 74 near the overhead bridge on King Street, and disband on Deal Street located near Advance Auto Parts.

Over 100 entries are expected for this special parade, including the Kings Mountain High School Marching Mountaineers, Mayor Scott Neisler, City of Kings Mountain’s City Manager and Elected Officials, Cleveland County Commissioners, the Catawba Shrine Club’s Gator Patrol, and the jolly ole

elf himself, Santa Claus, and many other surprises.

Kings Mountain own 2022 Mountaineer Football Team will serve as Grand Marshals for this special event.

The Christmas Parade will impact various roads

beginning on Gold Street at the intersection of Highway 161; west down Battleground Avenue (216); east on 74 Business, then south on Deal St. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling

See PARADE, Page 3A

Heating assistance for qualified families

Cleveland County Department of Social Services is now taking applications from individuals who need financial assistance with paying their heating bills. Each eligible household may receive up to a maximum of $600 per year for heating and cooling assistance combined.

This is a federally-funded program and the total amount that Cleveland County received for heating and cooling assistance this year was $547,000. Of this total funding, $264,000 was paid to 1,342 households for cooling assistance this past summer.

That deduction leaves a remaining balance of $283,000 in the County’s emergency fund to pay for heating bills this winter.

To be eligible to receive financial assistance with heating, a household must:

• Be located in Cleveland County

• Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria

• Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty limit

For example:

• For a household of one, an income of $18,732 or less

• For a family of four, an income of $38,628 or less

• Have a health-related issue that might be made worse without heat

• Have a utility bill that shows how much is owed to the utility company

• Be responsible for their heating cost

Each household is individually evaluated, and if determined eligible for assistance, payments are made directly to the household’s utility company. Each household can receive a maximum of $600 per year in heating and cooling financial assistance. For example, if a household received $200 for cooling assistance this summer, they would be eligible to receive up to $400 more for heating assistance this winter.

This program provides a total payment to the utility

See HEATING, Page 3A

December 3, 10 and 17

KM Christmas Festival takes over Patriots Park

It’s time to ring in the holiday season, and this year there is no better place to celebrate than in Downtown Kings Mountain with a month-long Kings Mountain Christmas Festival featuring amazing Christmas lights, interactive experiences, and free festive fun for the entire family.

Make plans to gather downtown for an evening with, Christmas lights, carriage rides, hayrides, train rides interactive characters, and much more!

Kings Mountain takes great pride in its special blend of family friendly holiday magic. Step into a Hallmark movie as twinkling Christmas lights illuminate city streets with Mayor Scott Neisler’s signature Downtown Christmas Fantasy Light Show where a dazzling display of lights synchronize to music playing on your car’s radio (tune into 87.9 to enjoy the show!) Stroll through Patriots Park and experience Costner’s Christmas Lights

Extravaganza, where one special display will be unveiled, guaranteed to take your breath away. Liberty Mountain Garden located at the Joy Performance Center will be transformed into a Downtown Artisan Market featuring local goods that will make the perfect stocking stuffers, and, of course, the extremely popular Polar Express Train Rides will be returning for another season.

See FESTIVAL, Page 4A

KM Crisis Ministry helps neighbors in need

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry (KMCM), an emergency organization sponsored by the Kings Mountain Ministerial Association, helps individuals and families in need in our community. With rising inflation resulting in greater needs locally, the ministry is asking the community for help.

Last year, KMCM helped 2133 people with food. That is roughly 25 percent of all the people living in Kings Mountain. This year, 259 families got help with utilities, 128 families were helped with rent, 184 individuals received clothes, and 72 families received needed gas or kerosene.

Executive Director Lisa Harrison shared, “The numbers are double what they were the year before, and we anticipate even more individuals and families will need help this coming year.

Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry is unique to our area. Shelby and Gastonia have nothing like this, it is truly an example of Kings Mountain people taking care of each other in the community.”

“The individuals and

families we help are in crisis, and they come from all walks of life,” she said.

“They are in need, and we are able to meet them where they are and provide much

needed resources like food, rent, and utilities – to help propel individuals and families into a better position for success and well-being.” See CRISIS, Page 5A

MOUNTAINEER FANS CELEBRATE AT KM COUNTRY CLUB – This group of Kings Mountain Mountaineer fans were ecstatic after the last second touchdown scored against the West Charlotte Lions last Friday night. The Mountaineers won the game 22-19 with just a little over 10 seconds remaining. See more action highlights and game details on Page 1B.

Stroll through Patriots Park and experience Costner’s Christmas Lights Extravaganza. (photo provided)

Kings Mountain Christmas parade will be held on December

Parade registration has been extended to Dec. 23. See details on page 3A. (Photo provided)

Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry Executive Director Lisa Harrison checks the Clothes Closet inventory.

Photos by Loretta Cozart

Virginia Payne

Self

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Virginia Payne Self, 76, of Kings Mountain, NC, went to be with her Lord on November 10, 2022 at her daughters home.

She was born in Gaston County, NC, daughter of the late Ernest and Claudia Ware Payne and was pre-

ceded in death by her husband, James W. Self and her brother, Ernie Payne.

Virginia, affectionately known as Ginger, was a devout follower of Christ and lived her life so that her love for her Savior was shown to people everyday.

She worked in retail for short periods of her life but was a dedicated homemaker for her family. Ginger loved cats and was an avid reader. She enjoyed a good cup of coffee and binge watching home decorating shows. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who will be missed dearly by her family and friends.

She is survived by her daughter: Kimberly Hill (Jerry), Kings Mountain, NC; grandchildren: Alex Johnson (Natasia), Noah Johnson, Gracie Hill,

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

NOV. 10: Christopher Dean Bridges, 52, Charlotte, felony probation violation, second degree trespass, $76,500. Secured bond.

NOV. 12: Jason Andrew Payne, 43, Kings Mountain, communicating threats, drunk and disorderly, $5,000 secured bond.

NOV. 13: Gary Wayne Cothern Jr.,49, Gastonia, driving while license revoked, not impaired; first degree trespassing, $1,000 secured bond.

NOV. 14: Phillip Daniel Hughes, 51, 201 Fulton Drive, assault on female, interfere emergency communication, no bond.

NOV. 15: Amber Scott Philbeck, 32, 603 Meadowbrook Road, driving while license revoked, written promise.

NOV. 15: Datrixian Nehemiah Seigle, 19, 510 N. Piedmont Avenue 5, 50B violation, no bond.

NOV. 15: Deandra Lasharee Banks, 29, 900 Grace Street, driving while license revoked, no vehicle insurance, $500 secured bond.

NOV. 15: Rodney Avery Boyd, 47, 227 Walker Street, two counts driving while license revoked, expired tag, $1,000 secured bond.

INCIDENTS

NOV. 6: A resident of Landing Street reported theft of a motor vehicle ignition switch.

NOV. 9: A resident of Morris Street reported theft of a 2012 Nissan Altima.

NOV. 10: Police recovered a stolen silver 2005 Dodge reported stolen by a resident of Pacolet, SC

NOV.10: A resident reported someone discharged a handgun causing $1,500 damage to the front door and storm door of a house on Waco Road.

NOV. 11: Mr. Tire Auto Service, 407 S. Battleground Avenue, reported larceny of a Catalytic converter for a Ford valued at $1,000.

NOV. 12; Walmart, 101 Shelby Road, reported larceny of $50.54 in assorted food products.

NOV. 12: A resident of Graystone Drive reported larceny of a black .38 revolver with laser sight valued at $520.

NOV. 14: Patriot Jacks, 832 East King Street, reported larceny of $90 in merchandise.

NOV. 15: A resident of Walker Street reported someone used a cutting tool to damage his back right truck tire.

NOV. 16: COATS, York Road reported $700 damage to an Impact time clock.

CITATIONS

NOV.3: Marcus Eugene Riley, 50, 108 Benfield Road, trespass.

NOV. 5: Michael Scott Howard, 26, 2027 Sparrow Springs Road, no operator’s license.

NOV. 5: Melissa Gayle Jones, 43, 315 Brice Street, no vehicle insurance.

NOV. 6: Melissa Ann McMahan, 800 Rhodes Avenue, revoked driver’s license.

NOV. 6: Gerri Strong,154 Cane Drive, expired tag.

NOV. 6: Bryan Ethan Dwaine Thompson, 22, Grover, revoked driver’s license.

NOV. 6: Kayla Joyce Blanton, 33, 114 Matthews Drive, revoked tag.

NOV. 6: Garrett Allen Dickson, 24, 4838 Barrett Drive, expired tag.

NOV. 7: Danielle Ometra Hunter, 42, 111 N. Watterson Street, red light violation.

NOV.9: Brittany Danielle Cloninger, 34, Bessemer City, expired tag.

NOV. 9: Briana Lee, 33, 711 West Gold Street, fictitious tag, revoked license.

NOV. 9: Kimberly Dawn Wright, 46, 110 Latham Drive, no operator’s license.

NOV. 10: Rebecca Ann Dunlap, 69, 714 Kings Row Drive, 104, speeding.

NOV. 10: Sherry Moore Revis, 50, 909 Margrace Road, no operator’s license, tag improperly located on vehicle.

NOV. 12: Danny Eugene Dixon, 1910 Shelby Road, forged license plate.

NOV.12: Miranda Jean Lipscomb, 43, 612 Charles Street, 46, revoked license.

NOV. 13: Benjamin Calvin Propst, 32, 23 Chesterfield Court, speeding.

NOV. 13: Jonathan Lee Hunt, 206 Ganley Street, revoked license.

NOV. 13: Karla Sanchez Suarez, 317 Waco Road, permit minor to drive a motor vehicle.

NOV. 13: Kenaz Monte Byers, 28, Grover, expired tag, no vehicle inspection.

NOV. 14: Rodney Avery Boyd, 47, 227 Walker Street, revoked license, expired tag, parking in a fire lane.

WRECKS

NOV. 1: Officer Geissinger said Ricky Dean Gruber, 1002 Jackson Street, operating a 1997 Merc, reported he was turning out of Boost Mobile into the turning lane on East King and was struck by another vehicle that left the scene. Property damage was es-

Karaline Hill, Casey Davis (Tyler), David Hill, and Ashley Hill; great-grandchildren: Everleigh Davis, Zoey Hill, Myah Hill, Emma Martinez and Marlee Martinez.

Funeral service was held on Friday, November 18, 2022 at 2:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Rob Craig officiating.

Visitation was held on Friday, November 18, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service at Harris Funeral Home.

Interment was held 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.

Human remains found near Cherryville identified

On Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at about 11:30 am Gaston County Police responded to the area of Aderholdt Rd and Gaston Webb Chapel Rd near Cherryville, NC after a hunter reported finding human remains.

On Wednesday, November 16, 2022 the remains were positively identified by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Medical Examiner’s Office as those of Quintin Lee Allen Roark. Roark was reported missing by

family members on July 14, 2022. He was last seen on July 12, 2022 in the area of Flat Rock Dr., which is in the vicinity of where his remains were found. This area in the northwestern portion of Gaston County. At this time, County Police investigators do not suspect foul play.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have any information, should contact Det. J.N. Hanline of the Gaston County Police Department at 704-866-3320 or call 911.

By Loretta Cozart

timated at $2,000.

NOV. 2: Officer Bullins cited Robert Allen Price, 100 Kirby Drive, with driving while license revoked and William Samuel Parks, 128 Montcliff Drive, with failure to reduce speed to avoid a collision. Parks was transported by EMS to a Gastonia hospital. Parks, operating a 2017 Volks on Lake Montonia Road, said he tried to avoid the collision. Price said his stopped 2010 Chevrolet was rear-ended by the Volks. Property damage was estimated at $2,000.

NOV. 3: Officer Dee said Janice Harper Welch, 412 Bennett Drive, operating a 2014 Nissan, failed to yield the right-of-way and struck a 2022 Nissan operated by Michael Scott Black of Gastonia. Welch was exiting the parking lot at 716 York Road and Black was attempting to turn into it from NC 161.

Property damage wase estimated at $7,000.

Carol Henry Maloney III, 41, of Grover, NC was arrested on sex charges November 2. He was arrested in Cleveland County following an investigation by the Alexander County Sheriff’s Department.

Maloney’s arrest record shows charges for statutory rape 13, 14, 15-year-old and sexual activity by a custodian. His secured bond was set at $75,000. Maloney’s next court date is scheduled for January 9, 2023.

Gaston County has two new rabies cases

Last week, Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement reported two new cases of rabies, bringing the total for the year to 12.

On Tuesday, November 13, at 10:20 pm, the Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement responded to a call regarding a cat that attacked a resident in the 800 block of Fairview Drive in Mt. Holly, NC. The resident was bitten and scratched during the attack. Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement collected the cat for processing. On November 14, 2022, the cat was processed, and a rabies specimen was sent to the North Carolina State Lab.

On Wednesday, November 15, Gaston County Police

Animal Care and Enforcement was notified the cat tested positive for rabies. Animal Care and Enforcement notified the resident and conducted a neighborhood canvas around Fairview

Drive, Mt. Holly, NC to notify the community of the positive rabies result and to verify rabies vaccinations for family animals in the area.

Gaston County Animal Care See RABIES, Page 4A

QUINTIN LEE ALLEN ROARK

CAROL HENRY MALONEY III

KM Christmas Parade registration deadline extended

Registration for the

Kings Mountain Christmas Parade has been extended to Wednesday, November 23. Want to participate?

PARADE

From Page 1A

through Kings Mountain.

While vehicles will not be allowed, spectators are

Participants may register online at Kings Mountain Special Events website. Participants must pay for an entry in the parade at the time of registration.

encouraged to take chairs or stand along the parade route.

After the parade, City of Kings Mountain will host “Kings Mountain Christmas Festival, which will include, a Downtown

For more information or assistance with registration, please contact Angela Padgett, Special Events Coordinator at 704-7302101.

Artisan Market, Carriage Rides, Fantasy Light Show and Katie and Grady Costner Christmas Lights Extravaganza at Patriots Park. This event will begin at 5:30 p.m.

Merry Little Christmas Concert at Patriots Park December 3

Mark your calendars now to bring the family and spend December 3 taking in the sights and sounds of a Christmas in Kings Mountain with Kelly Crabb and the Bowling Sisters.

City of Kings Mountain is proud to welcome Kelly Crabb & the Bowling Sisters and their Merry Little Christmas Tour to Patriots Park, Saturday, December 3. This free concert will begin at 6:00 p.m. with King’s Highway and then Kelly Crabb and the Bowling Sisters at 7:00 p.m.

American Legion Veteran’s Breakfast to be held Dec. 3

By Loretta Cozart

Veterans and guests can order a made-to-order breakfast of eggs, bacon, liver

HEATING

From Page 1A company on behalf of the

mush, gravy, grits, biscuits, toast, coffee and juice.

Members of three Amer-

person who has applied and determined to meet eligibility requirements. However, many utility bills

ican Legion branches, Auxiliary, Legion Riders, and Sons of the American Legion volunteer to take requests, deliver orders, and clean up afterward.

All veterans are invited to this free breakfast. Others are welcome to attend for a small donation that helps fund future breakfasts.

bundle electric or heating with water, sewage and/or trash. This program provides financial assistance for the portion of the bill that covers heating. The purpose of this program is to resolve the financial crisis caused by the heating bill. If the total utility bill has fees associated with other utilities (trash, water, sewer), that portion of the bill must be paid before the applicant can receive financial assistance for heating, or else the crisis that the household is facing will not be resolved.

Last year, Cleveland County provided heating and cooling assistance to 2,775 applicants for a total of $588,000.

For more information on the program and eligibility, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/low-income-services/crisis-intervention. You also can call Cleveland County’s Department of Social Services at (704) 487-0661, ext. 394.

KELLY CRABB & THE BOWLING SISTERS

KING’S HIGHWAY

Woman’s Club Breakfast with Santa a huge success

By Loretta Cozart

Smiles graced the halls of GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman's Club Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Clubhouse at 108 East Mountain Street, while families created memories as they visited with Santa.

Breakfast was sold out as everyone enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by Santa’s Elves. After, children enjoyed visiting the Elf Closet to get special gifts for members of their family.

After a two-year hiatus, this much anticipated start to the holiday season returned and warmed the hearts of many young

children

all those

RABIES

From Page 2A and Enforcement also notified

On Friday, November 11, at 9:07 pm, Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement responded to a call regarding a raccoon that entered upon the back porch of a residence in the 800 block of St. Marks Church Road in Bessemer City and got in a fight with the resident’s two dogs. The dogs eventually chased the raccoon into some nearby woods. Animal Care and Enforcement later located the raccoon deceased in the woods. The raccoon was processed, and a rabies specimen was sent to the North Carolina State Lab.

On Tuesday, November 15, Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforce-

tested positive for rabies.

Both dogs were up to date on their rabies vaccinations and received a booster.

Animal Care and Enforcement notified the animal owner and conducted a neighborhood canvas around St. Marks Church Road in Bessemer City, NC to notify the community of the positive rabies result and to verify rabies vaccinations for family animals in the area. Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement also notified the Gaston County Department Health and Human Services.

The Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement stresses the importance of having an up-to-date rabies vaccination for all your pets. By keeping your pet’s current on their rabies vaccines, you are protecting them from contracting the disease from wildlife and spreading the disease to your family and

other animals, and people in the community. Furthermore, it is important to never handle or transport sick wildlife. The animal could have rabies. Gaston County residents should contact Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement to capture and transport sick wildlife.

FESTIVAL

From Page 1A

All this and more in Downtown Kings Mountain, Saturdays, December 3, 10 and 17, 2022 from 5:30 - 8:30pm.

For more information, contact the Special Events Department at 704-7302101, access their website at www.kingsmountainchristmas.com or Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/CityofKMSpecialEvents.

the Gaston County Department Health and Human Services.

and brought joy to

who worked so hard to make such a successful event.

This youngster enjoys a visit with Santa. Photos provided

Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run set for Dec. 3

It may not be Thanksgiving yet, but now is the time to get your holiday running/walking gear in order. Registration for the 22nd annual Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run (JBRR) is underway, and the event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022.

“Not only are we offering an awesome 5K race, but we will also have a kids fun run, customized jingle bell hoodies for participants, and photo ops with Santa, Mrs. Claus and Dasher the Reindeer,” says Kevin Osborne, YMCA vice president of operations/senior executive director.

Cost for the 5K registration is $30 until Nov. 24, 2022, when it will go up to $35. The kids run is $15 and can be purchased at any time up until the day of the race. A virtual race option is also available for $25.

“Of course, the greatest benefit of running the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run is running (or walking) a race that will make a difference this holiday season,” says Osborne. “All proceeds from the race will go directly to those in need of financial assistance so that they can have access to YMCA programs throughout the year.”

Race proceeds provide scholarships to things such as swimming lessons, youth basketball, afterschool childcare, summer camps and YMCA memberships.

Something new for this year is that the JBRR will be US Track & Field certified.

“We are excited to be able to offer this to our dedicated runners who like to log their times and keep up with the precise timing that goes with the certification process,” says Osborne.

One of the runners participating this year will be Susan Simpson.

“My first race was in 2010, and I have run in every one since then except for the year that I was recovering from a foot injury,” says Simpson, who also co-directs the

race each year. “Part of the agreement when I started volunteering to help with the race was that I would still get to run. It’s such a fun race –lots of people dress in holiday costumes, and there’s a really festive spirit to the race.”

Mona Hinson agrees. She and her husband, Eddie, have walked the race for many years.

“It’s always so enjoyable – you see folks dressed up in tutus and Santa hats – it really gets you into the Christmas spirit,” Hinson says.

“We usually have more walkers than runners,” says Osborne. “This is a kidfriendly, pet-friendly, festive event, and we hope to have a lot of participants this year.”

The 22nd annual Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run is hosted by the Kings Mountain Family YMCA, a branch of the Cleveland County YMCA. The race will begin and end at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain at 9 a.m. Those interested can register by going to www.runsignup.com/Race/NC/ KingsMountain/JingleBellRockinRun.

For more information on the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run or other YMCA programs, visit www.Clevecoymca.org.

CRISIS

From Page 1A

When the organization began, it was funded by local churches that pooled funds to help with the needs of food in Kings Mountain. At that time, it was called the Helping Hands fund.

In the 1990s, the group moved to into the YMCA at 208 Cleveland Avenue and began a food pantry, clothes closet, and financial assistance with rent and utilities.

KMCM is a Second Harvest Food Pantry and receives donations of fresh produce, deli and bakery items from Food Lion and Walmart. The receive can goods from many businesses, churches, and individuals that hold food drives and donate food monthly. Local realtors leave door hangers, and many individuals support

the mission through them. Bethware School recently donated, also.

KMCM Board member Barbara Tackett shared that her church has food contests, choosing two items to donate. “We might choose jelly and tomato sauce for the food drive and members bring in those items. We communicate which item is winning and members might bring in more of the other item just to keep it interesting. The contest is just in good fun, and it helps us help others.”

The ministry receives funding from local churches, individuals, United Way, City of Kings Mountain, grants, charitable organizations, and fundraisers. City of Kings Mountain provides office space and facilities at the YMCA free of charge.

Those applying for assistance must meet certain criteria and provide all the following items: driver’s license or picture ID of all

adults in household, Social Security CARDS of all in household (adults & children), proof of income/ money received in last 30 days, copy of DSS Food Stamp Letter, proof of residency (correct name & address), and proof showing why in crisis - any receipts, statement, etc.

Anticipating greater needs from people, and due to rising inflation, KMCM is looking for partners, both individual and corporate, to become monthly donors. For more information or to make an online donation, visit www.kmcrisisministry.org.

The Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry is located on the back, right side, of the YMCA building. Visitors can park at the outside pool area. The ministry is open for donations, food, clothes, and financial assistance on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Call 704-739-7256

to make an appointment. Items needed are clothing, and linens. No furniture or other household items are accepted.

Board member Ricky Yow is also a member of Battleground Community Church that supports KMCM and suggests if people want to make donations outside the ministry’s hours, donors can call 704734-5419 and schedule a time to drop-off donations at 309 S Battleground Avenue instead. They will get them to the ministry.

This year, KMCM is holding a Bell Ringing Fundraiser at Ingles during December and volunteers are needed to man the kettle and ring the bell. Individuals, churches, and corporations are asked to call 704-739-7256 for more information on ways to support Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry’s mission.

Early last week, the Food Pantry’s cupboards were bare. Thanks to generous donations, shelves were replenished just in time for 100 families to be served.

Photos by Loretta Cozart

The Children’s Closet has clothing, shoes, outerwear, and supplies necessary for all ages.

Five Keys to Thanksgiving… Psalm 100:1-5

On Thursday, as a nation we will celebrate Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a very unique day in our American heritage. It doesn’t commemorate a battle or anyone’s birthday. It is simply a day set aside to express our thanks to God.

In 1789, our first President, George Washington, made a public proclamation saying that, “it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection and favor.” President Washington then assigned Thursday, the 26th day of November 1789 to be a day of national Thanksgiving.

Pastor Ron Caulder Eastside Baptist

were already celebrating thanksgiving.

Often lost in the chronicles of time, the story of the first Thanksgiving in 1621 is forgotten. It was quite different from what most of us experience with an abundance of food.

For the early Pilgrims, it as called the “starving time.” The Pilgrims had very limited food supply. Following their first thanksgiving the Pilgrims continued to struggle with provisions. The general food rations continued to decline through the winter of 1622. The Pilgrims had put a lot of their hope in the fall harvest of corn but it was a dismal failure.

with the items they would need to trade with the Indians for food. But even with the additional food from the Indians, the food shortage was still severe. Rations continued to be decreased due to the extreme shortage of food.

At one point during 1623, rations were only a few grains of corn each day. The Pilgrims were surviving on just 5 kernels of corn a day.

As Spring came and the planting time for the corn, a boat was fitted with some fishing gear to catch fish for the colony. There was some success with fish and clams. The Pilgrims planted corn and hoped for a bountiful harvest.

the Plymouth colony and gave hope that they would never face starvation again!

Thereafter, on their day of Thanksgiving, the Pilgrims would have by their dinner plates five grains of corn so that they would not forget their early time of hardship and near starvation as well as reminding them to count their blessings!

In Psalm 100, we read of five keys of Thanksgiving— Five things which we can be thankful unto God.

The first key is found in verse 1: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.”

Being thankful to God can turn our sadness to gladness. May your gladness cause you to break out in song!

The third key is DEPENDENCE. Note verse 3: “Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath mad us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.”

In this verse we see three roles of God:

First, God is Lord. He is to be the Ruler and Master of our lives.

The fourth key is psalm 100 is THANKFULNESS.

v. 4 “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” (NKJV).

Thanksgiving is what flows out of a thankful heart. If a person does not have a thankful heart, he or she is not going to offer thanksgiving!

Later, the fourth Thursday in November each year would be designated as Thanksgiving Day.

However, before this official proclamation, the early Pilgrims

In late 1622, a ship bound for England held the various items the Pilgrims desperately needed, but the captain of the ship cheated them terribly. However, this ship did provide them

Sadly, a severe drought struck the area and soon the corn crop withered. The Pilgrims turned to God in prayer and asked Him for rain. Their prayers were answered as gentle showers fell off and on for two weeks. The corn crop was spared. Later that month another ship of colonists arrived with people and provisions. The harvest of 1623 was the best yet in

This first key is JOY! The psalmist says we are to shout to the Lord. Thanksgiving is a time for us to lift our voices in praise to God for what we do have…not what we don’t have!

The second key is GLADNESS. V. 2 “Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.”

We need to help bring gladness and joy to the lives of others, but we can’t do this if they do not see gladness in our lives.

Secondly, God is Creator. He is the One who has made us. God has every right over us because He created us and has done so in His image and likeness. No other created being has the privilege to have an intimate and personal relationship with God. We are God’s unique creation!

Thirdly, God is our Shepherd. “We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” (v. 3)

God guides us to a place of security, plenty and rest.

We are dependent on God for everything! Without Him we are nothing! He is our All in All!

We need to have a thankful heart for all that God has done for us!

The fifth key to thanksgiving is GRATITUDE.

V. 5 “For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.”

God is good! God is merciful! God’s truth endures forever.

As you celebrate Thanksgiving this week, be sure to offer you thanksgiving and praise to God for all the ways He has blessed you!

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

St. Paul United Methodist Church N. Cansler Street 704-739-1256

Sunrise Baptist Church 208 Mail Road 704-692-3007

Temple Baptist Church 612 N. Cansler Street 704-739-4716

The Favor Center Church 602 Slater Street

True Gospel Holiness Church 1608 Shelby Road 704-739-6764

Unity AME Zion Church 948 Unity Church Road 704-228-0328

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street

Pastor Clifton Morgan Carson Memorial Baptist Church 262 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-2247

Central United Methodist Church 113 S. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-2471

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

Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406

Love Valley Baptist Church 2032 Bethlehem Road 704-730-0075

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

Midview Baptist Church 703 Margrace Road 704-739-6711

Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church 220 N. Watterson Street 704-739-8354

Mountain View Agape Church 506 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-0160

Mt. Olive Baptist Church Compact School Road 704-739-4516

Mt. Zion Baptist Church 220 N. Watterson Street 704-739-8354

New Beginnings Church of Jesus Christ 541 Crocker Road 704-730-9507

New Bynum Chapel AME Zion Church N. Cansler Street 704-739-2606

New Camp Creek Baptist Church 863 New Camp Creek Ch. Road 704-487-7128

New Life Family Worship Center 428 Oak Grove Road 704-739-9371

New Way Missionary Baptist Church 105 Waco Road 704-724-0414

Oak Grove Baptist Church 1022 Oak Grove Road 704-739-4833

Oak View Baptist Church 1517 York Road 704-739-7831

Pathway Baptist Church 3100 Parkdale Circle 704-734-0852

Patterson Grove Baptist Church 301 Oak Grove Road 704-739-5826

Penley’s Chapel Church 1805 N Piedmont Ave 704-524-4139

Peoples Baptist Church 1010 Groves Street 704-739-0398

Proclaiming the Word Ministries 7011 Cleveland Avenue

Progressive Church of Our Lord 1001 Cleveland Avenue 704-734-1070

Resurrection Lutheran Church 600 Crescent Circle 704-739-5580

Royal Praise Ministries 2055 Shelby Rd.

Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church 201 N. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-7466

Second Baptist Church 120 Linwood Road 704-739-4216

Shady Grove Baptist Church 339 Shady Grove Road 704-739-8920

Vestibule AME Zion Church 2175 Vestibule Church Road 704-739-7961

Westover Baptist Church 114 Westover Drive

Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member 230 Oak Grove Rd. 704-750-0171

Anew Beginning Baptist Church 415 Dixon School Rd. 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

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

Cornerstone Church Of God 202 Margrace Road 704-739-3773

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Cornerstone Church Of God 107 Range Rd. • Kings Mountain, NC

December Library news

By Mari Slaughter

Mauney Memorial Library has the following events scheduled during December. The library will be closed May December 23 through 26 for Christmas, and December 31 through January 2 for the New Year observance.

Mauney Memorial Library Food Drive One item for $2.00 of fines

(Only in-date items accepted)

November 1st through December 20th

See Website for more details.

T’was the Night Before Christmas: American Christmas Traditions December 1st through the 16th

Presented virtually on demand

The real-life story chimes to life as told by educational entertainer Martina Mathisen. Also, stories of our American Christmas Traditions will be explored.

Technology Assistance Make an appointment 704-739-2371

Zoom Storytime with Miss Anne (preschoolers) Tuesdays 10:30-11 a.m.

Register: www.mauneylibrary.org event calendar. Event URL will be sent via registration email.

Follow along with stories and songs from the comfort of your home.

Library Storytime in Person (preschoolers)

Thursdays 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mauney Library Community Room

Come to the library to enjoy a story, music, and a take home craft with Miss. Anne.

Learn Grow Play (preschoolers)

Play in centers, then enjoy a story, music, and a take home craft with Miss. Anne.

Fridays 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mauney Library Community Room

Chapter Book Club: (Ages 10 - 14) (See Mauney Library Calendar for more details)

Thursday, December 8th 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Library Community Room

Discuss the book of the month. Refreshments served.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (Family Program) Registration Required

Wednesday, December 14th 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Library Community Room

Musical performance by Sigmon Theatrical features live actors, puppets, and lots of audience interaction.

Lego Club (ages 6-12)

Thursday, December 15th 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Third Thursday of every month

Library Community Room

Free build and participate in group projects, snacks provided.

Zoom Bedtime Storytime

Join event by typing in URL: https://zoom. us/j/96659968320

Tuesday, December 27th 7:30 – 8 p.m.

Fourth Tuesday of every month Christmas Holiday Observance

Library Closed December 23rd through 26th New Year Observance

Library Closed December 31st through January 2nd

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Mauney Memorial Library is located at 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086.For the latest in library news and events, visit www.mauneylibrary.org.

KMHM welcomes the trains back this Friday

By Loretta Cozart

The 20th Annual Toys, Games and Trains Exhibit at Kings Mountain Historical Museum officially opens to the public on Friday, November 25. Visitors can enjoy the train exhibit Wednesday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from November 25 through December 31. This year’s exhibit has filled the museum with model train displays assem-

bled by local “S” Gaugers, as well as railroad memorabilia, and antique toys and games. Visitors of all ages will be enchanted as they explore

the miniature snow-covered scenes that line the tracks, and discover the interactive carousel, hot air balloons, and mailbag pickup.

Patrick Senior Center Holiday Open House Dec. 1

By Loretta Cozart

Patrick Senior Center announces their Holiday Open House for Thursday, Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 909 E. King Street. Bring the whole family for a day of Christmas joy and see what the Senior Center has to offer! Have your pic-

ture taken with Santa, story time for the kids, enjoy some holiday music and do a little shopping while you are there. Refreshments will be served. For more information, please call the Patrick Senior Center at 704-734-0447.

GRILLED TURKEY

STEAKS

Lorraine Belk

6 (1/2 inch) turkey breast steaks

Marinade

1/3 cup oil

1/3 cup white wine

1 clove garlic, crushed

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 Tbsp. soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce

Mix marinating ingredients well and put steaks in marinade. Turn steaks several times during marinating tome. Let set 6 to 8 hours or overnight.

Grill on preheated grill for 6 to 7 minutes or until done.

COMPANY MUSHROOM CHICKEN

Barbara Champion

6 chicken breasts, boned and halved

1 pkg. dried beef

1 can mushroom soup

1 carton sour cream

12 strips bacon Place dried beef in a layer on

the bottom of casserole. Wrap each half of chicken breast in a strip of bacon. Place on dried beef. Combine soup and sour cream; pour over chicken (no salt and pepper needed.) Bake at 375 degrees for 3 hours. Will serve 6 for dinner.

HOT AND ZESTY CRANBERRY DIP

Millie Shytle

1 (16 oz.) can whole cranberry sauce

1 c. prepared barbecue sauce

1 c. catsup 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. lemon juice

In medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil, stirring until well blended. Serve hot with cooked meat balls, ham cubes, shrimp, or cocktail sausage.

(The recipes in today’s Cooking Corner are from “Something old, Something New” by White Plains Shrinettes.)

2 c. sweet milk 1 cup canned milk 1 egg. Well beaten Dash of butter 1 box vanilla wafers Pour over vanilla wafers in oblong Pyrex dish. Serve very hot. Delicious.

APPLE DUMPLINGS

Jean Moore 1 can Hungry Jack flaky biscuits 5 med. cooking apples 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1 stick butter

Pull biscuits apart, making 2 thinner biscuits out of each. Wrap apple quarters in biscuit dough, pinching dough shut around edges. Place dumplings in a 9x13 dish. Melt butter and sugar; dissolve. Str in water. Pour mixture over dumplings. Bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees or until apples are tender and tops of dumplings are golden brown.

Remains of soldiers excavated at Camden Battlefield

The South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust Friday announced a significant historic discovery at the Revolutionary War Camden Battlefield. The Trust, acting on behalf of Historic Camden Foundation, contracted with the South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of South Carolina to excavate a number of bodies of Revolutionary War soldiers killed in the August 16, 1780 Battle of Camden.

A team of archaeologists from the South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, along with biological anthropologists from the Richland County Coroner’s office and the University of South Carolina unearthed the skeletal remains and accompanying artifacts of 14 Revolutionary War soldiers.

“These young men demonstrated their allegiance in an intense battle for liberty. They are truly America’s first veterans,” said Doug Bostick, CEO, South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust. “We have a responsibility to honor their sacrifice by ensuring their remains are protected in perpetuity and their stories of bravery are shared.”

and compare the forensic data to the historic record.”

Based on preliminary field examinations, the team believes that twelve bodies are Patriot Continental soldiers from either Maryland or Delaware, one is likely a North Carolina Loyalist, and one served with the British 71st Regiment of Foot, Fraser’s Highlanders. SCIAA archeologist James Legg has conducted research on the Camden Battlefield for more than 40 years and led the onsite field team.

“People visit battlefields like Camden, Cowpens and Kings Mountain every day and don’t often consider that they are walking in unmarked cemeteries. The dead are still there,” remarked Legg. “The work we are doing honors their sacrifice by shedding light on details that are not yet documented in the historical record and by providing them with decent marked graves for the contemplation of battlefield visitors.”

eral Horatio Gates was soundly defeated.

Although the Battle of Camden was disastrous for the American cause, it ushered in changes in military leadership that altered the war’s course.

After the battle, Major General Nathanael Greene was promoted to command of the Southern Campaign, and his leadership ultimately led to the evacuation of the British army from Charleston, South Carolina, in December 1782.

Historic Camden Foundation, a non-profit with the mission to protect, educate, and celebrate Camden’s colonial and Revolutionary War history, owns the largest portion of the Camden battlefield.

“As property owners, we are the caretakers and stewards of not only the resources we can see above ground, but also to the rich history below ground,” remarked Cary Briggs, executive director, Historic Camden Foundation.

www.momsinprayer.org

Our Mission: Moms In Prayer International impacts children and schools worldwide for Christ by gathering mothers to pray.

These human remains, some discovered less than six inches below the surface in seven separate locations across the battlefield, were located during site research, and were carefully excavated, and removed over an eight-week period beginning in September. “This discovery is particularly significant to the history of our state and nation,” said Dr. Steven D. Smith, research professor, South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology and principal investigator for the project. “This is a rare opportunity to examine and analyze a large sample of Revolutionary War soldiers to get information about their health and diet, age, gender,

Forensic anthropologists from the Richland County Coroner’s Office assisted in the final stages of removal, transport to the coroner’s office, and will assist in the forensic study of the remains. “The Richland County Coroner’s Office is one of only two coroner’s offices in the state with forensic anthropologists on staff,” commented Dr. Bill Stevens, deputy coroner, director of anthropology, Richland County Coroner’s Office. “Over the next five months, we will gather information to uncover details such as age, race, and potentially the region of their birth, further telling the personal stories of these soldiers.”

In 1780, Camden was the oldest and largest town in the Carolina backcountry. It was strategic to both the British Army, which occupied the town, and the Patriots in the Revolutionary War. Following a series of strategic errors before and during the Battle of Camden, the Patriot army under command of Major Gen-

The Liberty Trail, a partnership between the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust and the American Battlefield Trust, owns another recently acquired part of the Camden battlefield. The Liberty Trail has introduced Voices of Camden, an immersive audio play that is an excellent companion to The Liberty Trail app. The Liberty Trail is also writing, designing, and will be installing new interpretive signage on the Camden battlefield.

Planning is underway by SCBPT and Camden area partners for reinterment ceremonies April 20-22, 2023, in Camden.

Bostick continued, “When these young men marched into the darkness on that summer night in 1780, they did so out of love for their country despite the consequences that may befall them. Our intent is to lay them to rest with the respect and honor they earned more than two centuries ago.”

Archeologist excavate soldiers’ remains from the Camden Battlefield last September. Photo SC Battlefield Preservation Trust

Late comeback beats Lions 22-19

The late, great New York Yankee catcher Yogi Berra said it 50 years ago when the Yankees were down to the Brooklyn Dodgers three games to one in the World Series and it’s still true today:

“It aint over til it’s over.”

Many in the crowd and watching on TV might have thought the same thing Friday night when Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers were down 19-7 to West Charlotte in the fourth quarter of their NCHSAA playoff game at John Gamble Stadium. Some may have even left the stadium on the bitter cold night.

But the Mountaineers didn’t believe it and they rallied for two late touchdowns – the last with just 10.9 seconds remaining –to defeat the Lions 22-19 to keep their hopes alive for the school’s first NCHSAA state championship.

“It was a great comeback,” said Mountaineer head coach Greg Lloyd. “I’m proud of all of our players. They didn’t give up and found a way to win in adversity.”

Both teams used big defensive plays to score or set up their touchdowns –early for the Lions and late for the Mountaineers.

Pressure by the Lions on a KM field goal attempt on the first possession of the game resulted in a miss, and two possessions later the Lions’ linebacker Julian Carmichael intercepted a KM pass and returned it 37 yards for a TD. One of several big KM defensive plays – a blocked extra point by big AJ Richardson – kept the score at 6-0 and that would be a big factor in the end.

The Mountaineers got good running from Caleb Holland and Teddy Jeffries throughout the game, but the West Charlotte defense came up big time and time again to keep the home team at bay. Two early KM drives were stopped by a fumble and pass interception and the first period ended 7-0.

Two minutes into the second quarter the Lions

blocked a KM punt and their Jaden Smith recovered it in the end zone for a 12-0 lead. Yet another potential Mountaineer scoring drive ended at the WC 22 on a fourth down incomplete pass.

Kings Mountain’s scoring drought finally ended with 2:53 left in the half when Caleb Holland circled left end for a 33-yard touchdown run and Jaden Ellis added the PAT to make it 12-7 at the half.

The run capped a 48-yard, seven play drive that included a key pass reception by Ja’Qualyn Sanders and runs by Holland and Jeffries.

“In the first half I think all of those penalties got to us,” Lloyd noted. “They got us out of rhythm. But we played much better in the second half.”

The Mountaineers’ Antonio Armstrong caused a fumble and Micah Ward recovered it to stop a potential Lion TD drive at the KM seven early in the third quarter. But, with just 3:22 left in the period the Lions’ Scottie Cooper took a direct snap and went untouched 58 yards right up the middle of the field to put the Lions on top 19-7.

Big defensive plays put the Mountaineers in position to make their comeback, beginning with pressure on the WC kicker who missed a 21 yard field

goal attempt with 8:39 remaining. Big AJ Richardson had stopped Cooper at the KM five yard line to force fourth down.

And, after that big stop the Mountaineers played some of – if not their best - football of the year.

Taking over on their 20 yard line, the Mountaineers moved 80 yards in seven plays to come within 19-14 with 6:37 remaining in the game. Littlejohn, who had perhaps the best quarter of his career, started things off with a 37-yard pass to Sanders. A penalty pushed the Mountaineers back to their own 42 but Littlejohn hit Bryson Brown for 25 yards at the West Charlotte 33. Jeffries and Holland took turns running the ball to get to the nine yard line from which point Littlejohn hooked up with Brown for a touchdown. Ellis’s PAT cut the margin to 19-14 with 6:37 remaining.

West Charlotte ate four minutes off the clock but faced a fourth and two and called its final time out at the KM 44. The Lions elected to go for the first down instead of punting and the KM defense stopped Caleb Barringer, who had been the Lions’ leading rusher all night, for no gain with 2:38 remaining.

“That was a big stop,” Coach Lloyd said. “That changed the momentum.

That stop was huge.”

A quick out from Littlejohn to Sanders went for 15 yards to the 39, and facing third and eight Littlejohn hit Jake Lloyd for nine yards and a first down at the 28. Another catch and run by Sanders put the Mountaineers at the WC nine with 1:11 remaining.

An incomplete pass and two carries by Holland made it third and goal at the two with 19.2 seconds remaining. After a halfthe-distance penalty on the Lions made it third and goal at the one, Littlejohn scored on a sneak and then hit Lloyd with a two-point conversion pass to account for the final margin.

“Littlejohn made some big throws and the receivers made some big plays,” Coach Lloyd said. “The offensive line came alive and Holland and Jeffries ran the ball really well. We didn’t quit.”

Ellis’s kickoff went into the end zone to make West Charlotte start from its own 20 with 10.9 seconds remaining and the visitors were penalized back to the 15 for delay of the game. A quick out to the visitor’s side of the field resulted in just a four-yard completion as time expired.

Mountaineers host very good East Lincoln in round four

Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers face what could be their biggest test of the season Friday night when the undefeated East Lincoln’s Mustangs come to Gamble Stadium for a Western semi-finals game in the NCHSAA state 3A playoffs.

The winner of Friday’s game will advance to face the winner of the South Point-Eastern Guilford game to see who goes to the NCHSAA state championship game against a team from Eastern NC. South Point goes into that game with a 12-1 record – it’s only loss coming to KM – while Eastern Guilford is 9-4 and the #23 seed in the West.

East Lincoln comes to Kings Mountain with a well-balanced attack led by a good defense and an offense that has put up some big numbers. They come from the strong Western Foothills Conference and have beaten some perennial powers such as Hibriten, Hickory and Statesville during the regular season and Tuscola and Led-

ford in the playoffs.

“They are a top-notch ball team, a state championship caliber ball team,” says KM head coach Greg Lloyd.

“They’ve probably given up the fewest points in the state. They gave up 12 points to Hickory and that’s the most anybody scored on them.”

They are led by senior quarterback Tyler Mizzell who has passed for 2,184 yards and 33 touchdowns and rushed 95 times for 577 yards, a 6.1 yards per carry average.

His big targets so far have been Keandre Walker who has 36 catches for 748 yards and seven TDs, and Markell Clark who has 53 receptions for 689 yards and 15 touchdowns.

They also have a thousand yard rusher in sophomore Christopher Daley who has 1,375 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns.

“They run and pass very well,” Lloyd said. “Their quarterback is a dual threat. He is a special player. We’ll have to play our very best.”

Caleb Holland turns the corner with West Charlotte defense in Friday’s state playoff game with Kings Mountain at Gamble Stadium. Photos by Gary Smart

Kings Mountain’s defense is all over West Charlotte’s Caleb Barringer in Friday’s state 3A playoff game at Gamble Stadium.

KM quarterback Lamont Littlejohn fires a pass in Friday’s playoff victory over West Charlotte at Gamble Stadium. See more photos on page 2B.

KM Middle volleyball sweeps East, Lincolnton

Kings Mountain Middle School’s volleyball team had a successful week last week, defeating East Lincoln 25-22, 25-19, 25-18 and Lincolnton 2520, 25-7, 25-9.

Leading the way for the Lady Patriots were:

Campbell Benton, 25 kills, three aces and five service points.

Jillian Patton 27 assists, three kills, 12 acres, 28 service points and 20 digs.

Avaclaire Moss 24 assists, three kills, five aces and 19 service points.

Avery Cruise 11 aces, 30 service points, 33 digs and six kills.

Jaylee Woodward, 13 kills.

Ava Broome seven aces, 19 service points, 26 digs and four kills;

Alana Laughridge nine kills, five service points, five digs and an ace.

The Lady Patriots were scheduled to end their pre-holiday schedule Monday at home against North Lincoln and Tuesday at Burns.

KM’s Bryson Brown fights for yardage against the West Charlotte defense in Friday’s third round playoff game at Gamble Stadium. Photos by Gary Smart

KM’s Micah Ward (5) and Jake Lloyd are on West Charlotte’s Caleb Barringer in Friday’s third round playoff game at Gamble Stadium.

KM’s Ja’Qualyn Sanders runs after catching a pass in Friday’s win over West Charlotte at KMHS.

KM quarterback Lamont Littlejohn throws to Xzorion Lanair in Friday’s game with West Charlotte at KMHS.

Fans, Bands and Stands

North School heroes honored at CCS banquet

North Elementary School announced that Antoine Strickland was selected as a 2022 Cleveland County Schools Hero at the annual Carl DeBrew Heroes program sponsored by the Cleveland County Schools Educational Foundation and Laughlin Furniture Outlet.

The Carl DeBrew Heroes program was established to recognize incredible students for overcoming great obstacles. Selected by their respective schools for their heroic successes, the students have either overcome adversities or have provided extraordinary assistance to others. Thanks to the CCS Educational Foundation and Laughlin Furniture Outlet, each Hero received a personalized medallion, certificate, and a t-shirt.

Mrs. Bridges was rec-

ognized as a 2022 Hoyt Q. Bailey Agape Award winner. The awards program, sponsored annually by the Foundation, was held in conjunction with the Carl DeBrew Heroes program to recognize three teachers whose love for teaching im-

pacts the lives of students within and outside the classroom.

Each year, schools submit their local Agape Winners to the Foundation for consideration of the district-wide award.

Morrow shapes tomorrow’s nurses while teaching at CCC

Kings Mountain native Avis Morrow, MSN, RN is an alumna of Cleveland Community College and the Foothills Nursing Consortium. More than 40 years ago, she earned her practical nursing degree at CCC and was a charter member of the College’s chapter of Gamma Beta Phi, a national honor society. Years later, Morrow went back to school to earn her associate degree in nursing through the Consortium. Then, she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Winston-Salem State University and her master’s degree from Gardner-Webb University.

About eight years ago, she began sharing her experience and knowledge with future nurses as an instructor in the Foothills Nursing Consortium, the

same program she attended.

When the decision was made to dissolve the consortium and CCC moved forward with beginning its standalone nursing program, Morrow joined the faculty at CCC as a full-time instructor. Morrow says that watching her students grow is special, especially that moment when understanding of a new concept occurs. “I feel a connection has been made,” she says. “The student’s faces light up, they nod their heads and share with one another that they ‘get it’. As they become independent, it really is like watching a bird leave its

nest. They still look back to see if you are there, but they continue forward.”

Morrow lives in Kings Mountain and has been married to her high school sweetheart for 48 years. They have two children and four grandchildren.

When she isn’t helping shape the future of nurses in our community, Morrow enjoys quilting, reading, watching old movies, and visiting her grandchildren.

Photos by Gary Smart

Antoine Strickland is North Elementary School’s Hero nominee. Photos Anna Hughes

Mrs. Bridges was selected by CCS as a 2022 Hoyt Q. Bailey Agape Award winner.

AVIS MORROW

Cleveland County Choral Society to perform Winter Concert

For more than forty years the voices of Cleveland County Choral Society have celebrated the Christmas season. This year the concert will be held at Central United Methodist Church in Shelby, North Carolina.

Two concert dates are scheduled for Saturday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday December 4 at 3 p.m.

Under the direction of Kenneth Brooks, the CCCS will perform a work, commissioned for the 40th An-

niversary season, written by Joseph M. Martin.

The first half of the concert will be “Tidings of Joy” a Celtic Christmas Celebration by Joseph M. Martin. A collection of familiar lyrics and traditional English and Irish melodies, the work leads the listener through the excitement, wonder and ultimate joy of the birth of Christ.

After intermission, the CCCS will perform a selection of popular and wellloved seasonal pieces.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th day of November, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of ROBERT BREVARD CALLAHAN, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Derrick Eugene Callahan, Administrator, on or before the 23rd of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of November, 2022.

Derrick Eugene Callahan, Administrator Estate of: Robert Brevard Callahan 2917 Wood Rd Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (11/23, 30, 12/07, 14/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th day of October, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of MARK MONTGOMERY JOHNSON, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Dale Guffey, Counsel for the Estate,at 812 Waters Street, Shelby, NC 28152 on or before the 9th of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 9th day of November, 2022.

Nathan Mullinax, Executor Estate of: Mark Montgomery Johnson 120 Valerie Drive Shelby, NC 28152

Counsel for the Estate: Dale Guffey 812 Waters Street Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (11/09, 16, 23 & 30/2022)

LEGAL 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: WILLIE MAE NORRIS, Deceased

Having qualified on the19th day of September, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of Willie Mae Norris, 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 Executrix on or before the 11th day of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 9th day of November, 2022

Annette Gentry 426 Kildare Dr. Shelby, NC 28152

KM (11/9, 11/16, 11/23 & 11/30/2022)

“We Need a Little Christmas” by Jerry Herman, arranged by Mark Hayes, “Christmas is for Children”, Hayes, “White Christmas” Berlin arranged by Mac Huff, “It’s A Wonderful Christmas”, Hayes.

Start your holiday season with beautiful music by local musicians. Support the arts in Cleveland County!

Spring concert rehearsals begin in February. Please contact the CCCS via the Facebook page for more information.

Tim Moore renominated Republican designee for NC House Speaker

Speaker Tim Moore has been unanimously renominated the Republican designee for House Speaker for the State of North Carolina. Once formally elected when session convenes in January, he will serve his fifth term as Speaker, making him the longest-serving Speaker of the House in North Carolina history.

First elected Speaker of the House in 2015, Speaker Moore is currently the 3rd longest serving Republican Speaker of the House nationally and 2nd longest serving in the South. He will as a member of the North

NC House Speaker Tim Moore said, "I am honored to once again be nominated by my colleagues to serve as Speaker of the House. We have made great strides under the last 12 years of Republican leadership in North Carolina, and I am eager to get to work with my fellow members to continue the success and the growth that has made North Carolina a beacon to the rest of the nation."

Glam Gala Dec. 3

The Glam Gala, hosted by The Rogers Theater Project Inc, on Saturday, December 3 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., will be a night of fun, friends, and philanthropy. There will be food, drinks, and a silent auction with phenomenal items to bid on.

Join them at Spinning Leaf North Lake, at 1200 N Washington St, Shelby, where like-minded people will come together for

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE

OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th of November, 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of JOHN WRIGHT WILLIAMS, 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, Shanda Spencer, Administratrix on or before the 16th of February, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All per-sons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of November, 2022.

Shanda Spencer, Administratrix Estate of John Wright Williams. P.O. Box 1899

Boiling Springs, North Carolina 28017

KMH (11/16, 23, 30 & 12/07/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 1st day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of SALLIE IRENE CROTTS; AKA, SALLIE CROTTS EARLS, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Jo Ann James, Executrix, on or before the 9th of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 9th day of November, 2022.

Jo Ann James, Executrix Estate of: Sallie Irene Crotts; aka, Sallie Crotts Earls 1326 Kings Circle Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/09, 16, 23 & 30/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of RUBY S. PRICE, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Jacquelyn H. Price, Executrix, on or before the 23rd of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of November, 2022.

Jacquelyn H. Price, Executrix Estate of: Ruby S. Price PO Box 310 Bostic, NC 28018

KMH (11/23, 30, 12/07, 14/2022)

the evening to get to know one another, enjoy the holiday season, and celebrate breathing life back into one of Shelby’s most iconic buildings.

There will be best dressed competitions, a little theater trivia, great music, and we’ve got a few little surprises planned. Capacity is limited and tickets will set out quickly, so

don’t wait!

The dress code is elegant glam! One hundred percent of proceeds go directly towards the restoration, redevelopment, and preservation of The Rogers Theater of Shelby, NC, a registered North Carolina nonprofit organization. Visit the website to learn more about the project!

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of JAMES EDWARD BLANTON, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Vicky Blanton, Executrix, on or before the 16th of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of November, 2022.

Vicky Blanton, Executrix Estate of: James Edward Blanton 1347 Crossland Rd Clover, SC 29710

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LEGAL 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: GERALD BROADUS NORMAN, Deceased

Having qualified on the 28th day of October, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of Gerald Broadus Norman, 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 Executor on or before the 11th day of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 9th day of November, 2022

Michael J. Norman 1912 Elizabeth Avenue Shelby, NC 28150

KM (11/9, 11/16, 11/23 & 11/30/2022)

LEGAL 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: ALICE ELIZABETH TOWERY aka ALICE ELIZABETH JONES TOWERY File No. 22 E 106

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22 E 106 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Alice Elizabeth Towery aka Alice Elizabeth Jones Towery, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Alice Elizabeth Towery aka Alice Elizabeth Jones Towery to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jessica Jones Lance, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 301-A E. Warren Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 16th day of February, 2023 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 16th day of November, 2022. Jessica Jones Lance, Executor of the Estate, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 301-A E. Warren Street, Shelby, NC 28150 KM (11/16, 11/23, 11/30 & 12/7/2022)

Cleveland County Choral Society practices for their December 3 concert in Shelby. Photos by Anne Gamble

Carolina House of Representatives, representing Cleveland and Rutherford

TIM MOORE

15 ways to lower your energy costs

By Loretta Cozart

With inflation at a 40year high, and energy prices soaring, it pays to take small steps to save money this winter. Last week’s cold snap is a reminder just how much energy costs play into a family’s financial decisions. Small steps taken now can save you money now and into the spring. Here are fifteen ways to reduce energy costs you can implement today.

1. Let the sun warm your home. During daylight hours, open curtains in south facing windows and let the sun in. After sunset, do the opposite. Close curtains to hold in as much warmth as possible overnight.

2. Heat the spaces you use. If you own a three-bedroom house, and use one of those bedrooms for storage, close the vents in that room. Do the same for any rooms you are not using.

3. If you have a fireplace, be sure to close the damper when it is not in use. To reduce heat loss while burning a fire, open dampers in the bottom of the firebox. If your fireplace doesn’t have dampers in the bottom of the firebox, slightly crack a nearby window about an

inch. Close doors leading into the room with the fireplace to retain heat.

4. Maintain your heating system. Have your furnace checked annually.

5. Change your furnace filters. A dirty furnace filter can reduce the furnace’s efficiency and cost you more money.

6. Check the temperature of your hot water heater. A setting of 120 degrees is recommended.

7. Use LED Christmas lights to reduce costs and keep decorations to a minimum this year. Turn on lights at dusk and off before going to bed.

8. Use smart switches on appliances to reduce costs. Even though your coffee pot is off, the clock on it draws power. That goes for all appliances with displays. Unplug devices when not in use or add a smart switch to turn it off and on.

9. Adjust ceiling fans to rotate clockwise and set them on low. That will draw cool air up away from you. The warm air above will then be pushed down keeping you warmer.

10. Add a humidifier because heat dries out the air. Adding a humidifier adds moisture into the air so it

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 21st of October, 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of KENNETH VANCE LEDFORD (22 E 909), 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 February 2, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of November, 2022.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of Kenneth Vance Ledford Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

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LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 20th of October, 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of Anthony Christopher St. Clair (22 E 906), 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 February 9, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 9th day of November, 2022.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of Anthony Christopher St. Clair Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

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LEGAL NOTICE

In the Matter of the Estate of: SANDRA B. WILSON aka SANDRA FAY BUMGARDNER WILSON, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 25th day of October, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of Sandra B. Wilson aka Sandra Fay Bumgardner Wilson, 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 Executrix on or before the 4th day of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 2nd day of November, 2022 Deanna Moore Brown, Ex. 319 Goforth Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086 C. Andrew Neisler, Jr CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KM (11/2, 11/9 11/16 & 11/23/2022)

holds heat better and warms you up.

11. Insulate where you can. Adding insulation to a drafty window or door is a great way to save energy and keep the heat indoors.

12. Add cozy items to your décor. In the winter, add an Afghan or throw to your sofa and put rugs on floors if they get cold.

13. Check your refrigerator settings and make sure vents inside your refrigerator and freezer are not blocked.

14. Use dryer balls in your dryer. Dryer balls help separate clothing and speeds up the drying process. Dryers use a significant amount of electricity and reducing that time will impact your power bill.

15. Use power strips. Plugging and unplugging appliances to save energy can be cumbersome, especially for items you use regularly. When possible, add a power strip and turn it off to control multiple appliances simultaneously.

Saving money is a cumulative process. While applying one item on this list might save you some money, using multiple items could save you significantly over the winter months. When every penny counts, saving

what you will make a difference in your wallet every month.

How to dispose of grease and avoid clogging pipes

When grease, cooking oil, and food scraps are put down the sink or toilet they can build up and cause a blockage in the sewer pipes. A blockage can also cause sewage to overflow from a manhole onto the ground or into streams. Help protect our environment by properly disposing of grease, cooking oil, and food waste.

City of Kings Mountain recommends you handle cooking oil, food scraps, and grease in the following manner: DO:

• Dry-wipe pots, pans,

& dishes with a paper towel before washing

• Put food scraps in the trash (avoid the use of a garbage disposal)

• Mix small amounts of left-over grease and cooking oil with cat litter or coffee grounds and put it in the trash

• Recycle large amounts of left-over cooking oil (such as from deep-frying fish, turkey, french-fries, etc.)

• Recycle larger amounts of cooking oil by taking to one of the Recycling Centers listed below.

• Gaston County Recycling Centers that Accept Cooking Oil

• Crowders Creek, 1120 CP Groves Rd., Gastonia

• Hardin, 3155 Philadelphia Church Rd., Dallas

• New Hope, 235 Lake Wylie Rd., Belmont

• Riverbend, 146 Mountain Island Rd., Mt. Holly

• Tryon, 2755 Tryon Courthouse Rd. / Highway 274, Bessemer City

DO NOT:

• Pour grease or cooking oil down the sink or toilet

• Rinse food scraps down the sink

• Use garbage disposal. Consider composting food scraps or installing an under-the-counter trash compactor if you do not want to put food waste into the trash can.

For further information, contact – (704) 739-7131.

When to replace your smoke detector

By Loretta Cozart

Working smoke detectors alert people to fire in its early stages, providing the warning needed to escape safely. According to the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half. However, smoke alarms don’t work forever.

The presence of smoke

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 2nd day of November, 2022 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of SHIRLEY JANE McMURRY, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Bill K. McMurry, Co-Administrator and/or Dwayne R. McMurry, Co- Administrator, on or before the 9th of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 9th day of November, 2022. Bill K. McMurry, Co-Administrator Estate of: Shirley Jane McMurry 2318 Londonderry Dr Gastonia, NC 28056 AND/OR Dwayne R. McMurry, Co-Administrator 137 Range Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (11/09, 16, 23 & 30/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 25th day of October, 2022 as Administrator-CTA of the Estate of DENNIS WAYNE EDMONDSON, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Gregory S. McIntyre, Administrator-CTA, on or before the 2nd of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of November, 2022.

Gregory S. McIntyre, Administrator-CTA Estate of: Dennis Wayne Edmondson McINTYRE ELDER LAW 112 S. Tryon St. STE 760 Charlotte, NC 28284

KMH (11/02, 09, 16, 23/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 5th of October 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of Frances Carole Bottoms (22 E 760), 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 Julia Bottoms Lucas, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 2, 2023, 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 2nd day of November, 2022.

Julia Bottoms Lucas Administratrix of the Estate of Frances Carole Bottoms c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/2, 11/9, 11/16 & 11/23/2022)

alarms in residents’ homes may give them a false sense of security. Oftentimes, people don’t know how old their smoke alarms are, if they’re still functioning properly, or at all. That lack of awareness can have deadly consequences: nearly two-thirds of all home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms more than 10 years old no longer offer a reliable level of safety. To determine how old your smoke alarms are, you will need to take the smoke detector down to find the date of manufacture located on the back of the alarm. If they are 10 years old or older, replace them immediately. This includes smoke alarms that use 10year batteries and/or are hard-wired. Most CO alarms expire after 7 years, so if you have a combo smoke and CO detector, you should replace it every 7 years.

The yellowing of a smoke detector is an indication of age and not buildup of cigarette smoke, dust, or grease. Smoke detector manufacturers often inject a fire-retardant bromine into the plastic of residential smoke detectors. Bromine serves a dual purpose. It helps protect the unit in the

event of a fire and serves as a visual signal the detector is older and likely should be replaced.

The NFPA offers the following recommendations for buying and installing smoke alarms:

• Purchase combination smoke alarms or both ionization and photoelectric alarms.

• Make sure smoke alarms are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. (Some older homes may not have smoke alarms installed in bedrooms, but it’s important that these locations include them to provide adequate warning.)

According to the NFPA, heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles are leading causes of winter house fires. December, January, and February are the peak months.

LEGAL 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: MARY E. HARTSELL

aka MARY CRAWLEY HARTSELL, Deceased

Having qualified on the 3rd day of November, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of Mary E. Hartsell aka Mary Crawley Hartsell, 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 Executor on or before the 11th day of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 9th day of November, 2022

Joe A. Hartsell 1605 Troy Rd. Shelby, NC 28150 KM (11/9, 11/16, 11/23 & 11/30/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 14th day of June, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of PAULA BELINDA MAUNEY, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Brenton S. Begley, Administrator, on or before the 9th of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 9th day of November, 2022.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator Estate of: Paula Belinda Mauney McINTYRE ELDER LAW 233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/09, 16, 23 & 30/2022)

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

ONE

EMPLOYMENT

BUSINESS SERVICES

HANDYMAN. All rental and residential services. No job too small. Call Ray at 704-813-7623 RV AND BOAT STORAGE. SECURE RV AND BOAT STORAGE. 24/7 ACCESS. ONLINE CONTRACT AND PAYMENT. KEY PAD ENTRY AND PHONE IN ACCESS. WIDE ROADS WITH PULL THROUGH AND BACK IN SPACES, FOR EASY PARKING. GO TO YOURTOYBOXLLC.COM OR CALL US FOR PRICING AND AVAILABILITY. 704-470-5816. FACILITY ADDRESS: 136 ELM RD. GROVER, NC 28073 (704) 470-5816 YOURTOYBOXLLC@YAHOO.COM

FOR SALE

WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS PRESENT. Brand new (unopened box) Roomba Robot $190. (Retail $275). (704) 4822673

CEMETERY LOT AVAILABLE. VETERANS CIRCLE , GASTON MEMORIAL PARK. Reduced price. Call or text (919) 272-5503 FIREWOOD, SEASONED 95% OAK. 1/4 cord load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704-435-3970 or 704-458-3081.

PORTABLE ROOM SIZE A/C UNIT Hisence Brand. Cools 250 Sq. Ft. “Like New!” Original Owner. $255 Firm. Call between 10am & 8pm. (828) 863-0596

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD $150.00 takes it all. 3 big oak trees fell during the storm, cut - not split. Come get it. (843) 307-6985 j.benton.406@gmail.com EZ-GO GAS GOLF CART. $550. MPI 2400 Monitor heater with tank & stand, uses kerosene, $700. Burning Barrels $10. Feed Barrels $20. Totes from $60-$100. Call Jeff, Hickory, NC (828) 327-4782

LOTS OF STUFF TO SELL. Too much to list. Call me and I will tell you what I have. 704240-8023

ALL METAL GARAGES. Big Discounts! Zero down. Call for more details. 828-382-0455.

RENT TO OWN TRAILERS. ENCLOSED, DUMP, GOOSENECK, CAR HAULERS. Thursdays - Fridays 10-5, Sat. 10-12. J Johnson Sales, inc. (828) 245-5895

NEW USED REPO BUILDINGS Thursday - Friday 10-5 Sat. 10-12 J Johnson Sales 2690 US Hwy 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

METAL ROOFING IN STOCK! Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

STEEL CARPORTS & GARAGES 12 wide, 18, 20, 22, 24 & 30 wides on display. Large onsite display. J Johnson Sales Forest City 2690 Hwy 221 South. ThursdayFriday 10-5 Saturday 10-12. Ph.(828) 245-5895

HORSE QUALITY HAY. Square and round bales. Call (704) 487-6855

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CHRISTMAS PUREBRED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. $500 each. Ready to go December 4th. Text 704-6856323 or call 704-702-2235 for more information.

TAKING DEPOSITS. F3 Golden Doodles. Blonde and Black & white. Male and female. 980-925-9048.

GREAT DANE PUPPY FOR SALE. Call for info. 704-3001404, or (980) 404-0068

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. Ready to go. All shots UTD. For more info, contact Ronnie (704) 9742716

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES $800. Golden Doodle puppies $1,000. All 7 weeks old, male & female. All have had first shots. 704-309-4513.

2020

CAMPERS

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

PREPPERS SPECIAL $8995 FIRM. Never be homeless! 828-453-0828.

VACATIONS

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

SHIPMAN’S

EMPLOYMENT

HOMEOWNERS,

MOBILITY

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

CHINESE CRESTED PUPPIES Adorable Chinese Crested pups are available. Born in June this year we have four powder puffs (two tan and buff - one male and one female, and two black and white - both males. There are two puppies who are considered to be “extremely, hairy hairless” or “powder puffs without the subcoat”, both males, one tan and buff and one black and white. Have had two vet checks and shots and are on treatment for tick, heartworms and fleas. Will weigh approximate 7 pounds. Most fun breed to own...a personality that’s a mix of a dog, cat, prancing horse and deer. Got to see them to believe them!

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-7182659.

REAL ESTATE CLEVELAND COUNTY

Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

YARD BUDDY. Outdoor work such as trimming bushes, small trees, spraying weeds, gutter cleaning. General property clean-up. No grass cutting or leaves. Serving Shelby & Cleveland County. (980) 2950750

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPO’S. LARGE SELECTION! CASH or RENT TO OWN. NO CREDIT CHECK! J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 South, Forest City Thursday - Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-12 (828) 245-5895

OLD GAMBLING MACHINE $150. Would make a good man cave piece. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net 1999 DODGE 1500. $800. I have ‘99 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine and new radiator. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

ASSORTMENT OF CHILTON REPAIR MANUALS. I have a large assortment of Chilton Auto Repair Manuals. Some are imports and trucks. Some Motor Manuals all are hard back copies. Best Offer! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net 10FT. X 10FT. X 6FT. chain link dog lot with dog house. $250. 828-919-1477

VISIT ME AT AWESOME FINDS INDOOR FLEA MARKET. 784 W. Hwy 27, Lincolnton, NC 28092

FOR SALE. GREAT DEAL! 2 Grave Sites at Cleveland Memorial Park, $1400.00 for pair. Seller will pay transfer fee. In Section 4, Fountain Area, Lot 115, 828-429-5096

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve: 704-472-8865; Todd: 704-6921627

NEW ALUMINUM RAMPS. Folds in the middle. Bought new for $400. Asking half price, $200. 704-600-7614.

SEASONED MIXED HARDWOOD. Cut, split and delivered, stacked on truck, $100. $10 fee for stacking off the truck. 828395-0758.

RAINIER 13000 WATT GENERATOR. Electric start, runs on propane or gas. Selling with one full and one 1/2 full 100 lb tank. $1300. 828-748-7985.

ALL TRAILERS CASH, FINANCE, CREDIT CARDS or RENT TO OWN. J Johnson Sales Forest City, NC. Thursday - Friday 10-5, Saturday 1012. Ph. (828) 245-5895

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

FOR SALE/TRADE 35 Ft. Windsport RV, Sleeps 6, 48,000 miles. Trade for a pickup truck of equal value. $12, 000-$14,000. 704-915-9323 or 704-842-1794.

DECORATIONS FOR SALE. Christmas and Fall Wreaths with other decorations and crafts. 200 Lutz Rd, Lawndale. 704-538-3808.

WHITE WHIRLPOOL DUET. Front loading washer and dryer with attached drawer pedestals. $1,300. 704-674-8587 (Leave Message.)

WANT TO BUY

DANNY’S AUTOWERKS. Buying used or junk cars. Competitive prices. Call Danny 828-289-3081 or Jimmy 828-289-1175.

CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-6926767, (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

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

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

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

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

FARM & GARDEN

Potty trained to a wee-wee pad or will go outside. Let’s talk if you’re interested! $800.00 each. (828) 775-4089 cyninbuncombe@yahoo.com

MALTIPOO PUPPY Only female left. 2nd shot and wormed. $400. Call: 704-4776762.

GERMAN SHEPHERD FEMALE. Solid black, 18 months old, AKC registered, working bloodline. $450. 828-429-0053, 828-7489238. Check our Facebook at Dysart Wolf & Sheperd Kennel.

AKC REGISTERED SCHNAUZER PUPPIES. Salt & Pepper. Ready by Dec 15th. Call or text, (704) 915-0004

1.97 ACRES, 3000 SQFT BUILDING. 1144 East Stagecoach Trail, Lawndale, NC 28090. INVESTORS: Great investment. More than 100% one day return. 2020 assessed value $220,325. Purchase price $114,000 firm. Call Thomas Bittner. 828453-0828.

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

OUT OF AREA

2 BEDROOM HOME WITH BASEMENT and 10 acres. South Mountains, at 4570 Double Head Road, Connelly Springs, NC (old 18 Hwy). $140,000 firm. 828-308-4267

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

AMERICAN BRITTANY PUPPIES FOR SALE. CHAMPION BLOODLINES 9 WEEKS OLD. READY FOR NEW HOMES. ORANGE AND WHITE, VET CHECKED, WILL BE UP TO DATE ON VACCINATIONS. CALL FOR DETAILS, ASK FOR BEN. MALES $850.00 ONE FEMALE LEFT $1000.00. CHECK RIDGEVIEW BRITTANYS ON FB. 704-472-3652 (704) 472-3652 BRITMAN657@ YAHOO.COM

PITBULL PUPPIES, MALE AND FEMALE. 7 weeks and 10 weeks old. $150 to $350. Call or text 704-974-8055.

DOG KENNELS & DOG HOUSES Dog kennels 10x10x6, 10x20x6,

2BR, 2BA, 1100SF, heat pump, 10 acres partly wooded, rolling, secluded, pond. $249,000. Text 828-919-1477 or leave message. Additional 14 acres available. 342 Right Prong Road, Ellenboro, NC. Ellenboro, NC 28040

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

COUNTRY LIVING, POLKVILLE. 2 bedroom farmhouse. 2 acres, central heat/ air. No Smoking or Pets. Not HAP eligible! $575. (704) 4875480

2 BEDROOM DUPLEX, FALLSTON. Quiet area, central heat/air, stove, refrigerator, H/W floors. No smoking or pets. Not HAP eligible. Available Dec 1st. $600 mo. (704) 487-5480

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE HAS 1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, (704) 482-7723

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

COMMERCIAL OFFICE BUILDING FOR RENT. across the street from the hospital at 803 N. Washington Street, Shelby. Previously a dentist office and would make a great salon. Call for pricing, 704300-2820

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 473-4299

Hartley shares “Books from the Hart”

By Loretta Cozart

Hartley Plyler, daughter of Charles and Lucy Plyler, begun a social network book drive benefitting Kathy’s Korner at UNC-Chapel Hill’s Children’s Hospital. The book drive, dubbed “Books from the Hart”, is Hartley’s way of giving back to a program she has known since she was just nine-years old.

Former Kings Mountain residents, Hartley and her parents make trips to UNC Children’s Hospital every six- to eight-weeks.to keep an eye on her health. She has a rare genetic disorder known as Gorlin syndrome. She lacks the gene to protect her skin from the sun, and people with this disorder have a high risk of developing basal cell skin cancer during adolescence or early adulthood.

Since being diagnosed,

Hartley has had seven tumors removed. During her treatments and recuperations at UNC Children’s Hospital, Hartley benefited from Kathy’s Korner and now wants to help other patients by collecting and donating books for them to enjoy. All books collected will be given to children at the hospital for them to keep.

Hartley explained her reasoning behind the book drive, “I remember what it was like to be in the hospital, away from home, especially during the holidays. I want the children to have something to take home and books are something I've enjoyed."

Since the book drive began, Hartley has collected 79 of the 100-book goal she set for herself. In late December she and her parents will travel to meet a representative from Kathy’s Korner and make the dona-

tion.

At 24, Hartley is ready to begin work and has her eye on a job at Hobby Lobby. After high school, she also attended a program at Clemson designed for individuals with disabilities.

While she has faced many adversities in life, Hartley is certainly blessed with special gifts: the gifts of kindness, generosity, and love. Through her work, other patients at UNCChapel Hill’s Children’s Hospital will be blessed with the gift of reading.

Throughout the holiday season, there is much for which to be thankful. And Hartley is a shining example of what one person can do to benefit others.

Donations to Hartley’s book drive can be sent to Hartley Plyler, PO Box 392, Ellenboro, NC 28040. Books will be delivered on December 29.

Going big with your holiday decorations? don’t fall for this scam

If you’re planning to get festive with your Christmas, or other holiday decorations, keep your eyes open for this scam. BBB Scam Tracker has received complaints about false advertisements and phony promises for holiday decor.

How the Scam Works: You are searching for some holiday decorations for your home or lawn. You come across the perfect item through a social media ad or a search result. The photos on the website look great! The decorations are largerthan-life with incredible lights and features and, best of all, low prices.

You make your payment and wait for the decorations to arrive. However, when your package is delivered, the product is nothing like what you saw online. In many cases, it’s a poorly manufactured miniature version of what you

thought you bought. You now don’t have a way to return the items or receive a refund. In fact, you probably won’t even be able to contact the company.

One consumer reported the following experience: “For Halloween, I ordered a giant 7-foot pumpkin head and giant 7-foot skeleton with LED eyes and sounds. What I finally got in the mail after almost a month was two rubber 7-inch dolls that sort of looked like what they were advertising. This company will not reply to their emails, which is the only means of communicating. The items looked amazing online, but the store is a total scam.”

How to avoid Holiday Décor Scams:

• Do your research before you buy. Before you make a purchase on an unfamiliar website, check out the company. Make sure they have working contact information. This should include a telephone number, email address, and, preferably, a physical address. Look

on other websites for reviews of the company and reports of scams. You can always look for business ratings and customer reviews on BBB.org.

• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Keep in mind that large decorations that involve special lights and technology are expensive. If you find something amazing for cheap, it could be a scam.

• Don’t make quick purchases on social media. Scam advertisers can track your buying habits from social media ads and then target you with specific products they think you’ll fall for. Don’t buy anything on impulse while scrolling through your feed. Do research first to avoid getting scammed.

• Always use your credit card for online purchases. Credit card companies allow you to dispute fraudulent charges, a resource you may not have at your disposal if you purchase an item with a debit or gift card.

State Highway Patrol reminds drivers to be careful this holiday season

The State Highway Patrol expects the coming weeks to bring more vehicle traffic to our roadways with an increase in holiday travelers. This expected increase in roadway users will put a premium on the need for awareness, enforcement, and education by the Patrol as it hopes to curb dangerous driver behaviors to include speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), an expected 49 million people will travel by automobile across our nation during the holiday weekend. Accordingly, members of the State Highway Patrol will increase visibility on highly traveled roadways in hopes of promoting safe driving behaviors.

“We continue to set the bar high and having no lives lost on our roadways

this holiday season is our goal,” said Col. Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. “Every driver has an opportunity to help us attain this goal by slowing down, avoiding operating a vehicle while impaired and insisting that all occupants in their vehicle wear a seatbelt.”

The Patrol will once again partner with the North Carolina Governors Highway Safety Program for their annual Thanksgiving “Click It or Ticket” campaign during this holiday period. The campaign began today, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 27 with the goal of reducing preventable injuries and deaths in collisions due to a vehicle occupant’s failure to use a restraint device.

The provided safe driving principles can help to ensure a safe holiday travel period:

• Don’t drive distracted. Avoid technological devices while operating a vehicle.

• Ensure all occupants are properly restrained in weight appropriate restraint devices, day or night.

• Never drive while impaired. Have a plan and take advantage of the multiple ride sharing avenues available.

• Obey the speed limit. The faster you drive, the longer it takes to stop your vehicle.

• Check traffic conditions before starting your travel at drivenc.gov.

As always, motorists can contact the SHP by dialing *HP(47) if law enforcement assistance is needed.

844-213-6711

Hartley Plyler gives back to Kathy’s Korner, with a book drive for young readers at UNCChapel Hill’s Children’s Hospital.

Photo by Lucy Plyler

AARP expands tool to help veterans access health care

Last June, AARP launched the updated Veterans and Military Families Health Benefits Navigator to bring together valuable information and resources to help veterans, military families and their caregivers navigate their health care options. The tool provides North Carolina’s veterans with critical information about what is required to qualify for health care benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or Department of Defense (DoD).

“Veterans and military families faced many difficulties serving our country;

accessing health care benefits they earned shouldn’t be as challenging,” said AARP volunteer Ret. Colonel Shirley Gerrior. “This free, onestop resource will help make the process less confusing and overwhelming for veterans and military families as they navigate the best path for their health care needs.”

The AARP Veterans and Military Families Health Benefits Navigator has just been expanded to help veterans and their families access VA Specialty Care Programs and Services in the following areas:

• Women Veterans Health

Care Program

• Specialty Emotional and Mental Health Services

• Specialty Dental, Oral, Hearing and Vision Services

• Family Caregiver Assistance Program

Nearly 60% of all veterans are eligible for VA health care services, yet less than half of those eligible veterans use VA health benefits, according to a RAND study.

And a survey conducted by the VA Center for Women Veterans found women veterans aged 50-plus are the least likely group to use their earned benefits. In addition, of the approximately 724,250

veterans living in North Carolina, only 29% have utilized their earned benefits at VA health care, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Yet quality of care delivered by the VA is generally equal to or better than care delivered in the private sector, according to a RAND study. Frustration with the application process and confusion about qualification requirements keeps many veterans from receiving their health benefits. For more information and other resources for veterans, visit www.aarp. org/veterans.

By JIM MILLER Editor

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend any services that can help my elderly mother with her financial chores? My dad always used to handle the bill paying and paperwork, but he passed away last year, and mom struggles to keep on top of things. And I don’t live close enough to help her on a regular basis.

Concerned Daughter

Dear Concerned, It sounds like your mom could use a good daily money manager (or DMM). These are financial savvy professionals that can help older adults who have difficulty managing their own day to day personal financial affairs.

The types of services they provide typically includes paying bills, maintaining financial records, balancing checkbooks and negotiating with creditors. DMMs can also prepare checks for clients to sign, help older people organize bank and financial records, prepare and deliver bank deposits, gather and organize

documents for tax returns, help decipher medical bills, and review bank statements in order to detect potential financial abuse or fraud.

Where to Find DMMs

Depending on where your mom lives, DMM services may be available through private non-profit elder assistance organizations or government agencies. These agencies often use volunteers to provide basic DMM tasks, such as bill paying at no cost. To find out if this is available in your mom’s area contact her Area Aging Agency. Visit ElderCare.acl.gov or call 800-677-1116 for contact information.

In addition to the non-profit DMMs, an increasing number of individuals and private for-profit companies have started offering DMM services for a fee. Cost for these services varies by region but it often ranges between $25 and $100 per hour. Most clients need approximately four hours of services per month, but this too varies according to the complexity of the person’s financial situation.

The best place to look for a professional DMM in your mom’s area is through the American Association of Daily Money Managers (AADMM.com), which offers an online directory that lets you search by ZIP code. All the pros listed there have signed the group’s code of ethics. Some have passed a certification exam to earn the designation of Certified Daily Money Manager.

Before hiring a daily money manager, however, get references from two or more of their clients and check them. Also, find out what they charge and what type of insurance coverage they have. Keep in mind that neither federal nor state governments regulate the DMM industry, so there is little oversight of these services. So before turning over your mom’s bills, make certain it’s someone you can trust.

One other highly rated bill-paying service you should know about that’s specifically designed for older adults and caregivers is SilverBills (SilverBills.

com). Available nationwide, this is a secure concierge bill management service that will manage your mom’s bills and pay them on her behalf, on-time and correctly, for a flat fee of $50 per month.

If you opt for this service, your mom will be paired with an account manager who will communicate and work with her over the phone, or through email, text or mail (her preference) – no computer is required. SilverBills also reviews all bills for errors and fraud and provides monthly statements showing the date, amount and manner of each payment.

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.