KM Herald 1-26-23

KM Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

By Loretta Cozart

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was remembered by the citizens of Kings Mountain in an observance held on Monday, January 16 at 2 p.m. at the Joy Performance Theater.

Opening remarks were brought by Mayor Scott Neisler, followed by the invocation by Mayor Pro Tempore, Annie Thombs.

“Meet Dr. King,” of Bright Star Touring Theatre of Asheville, was brought to life by actors Lauren Ainsworth and Ryan Anthony.

Keynote Speaker, Steve Crump, Emmy Award winning journalist at WBTV, shared the legacy of Dr. King, his impact on our area, and his everlast-

City of KM; Gaston Co. partner to provide enhanced EMS service to area residents

ing imprint on civil rights in America. Crump spoke of King’s trips to Charlotte and South Carolina’s St. Helena Island. Those trips to the SC low country reduced his risk for arrest and allowed his creative juices to flow in a relaxed environment. While changes continue supporting civil rights, Crump reminded those in attendance there is much left to do to achieve Dr. King’s dream.

Afterward, Mayor Neisler presented Crump with a key to the City of Kings Mountain.

Henry Gilmore, III paid musical tribute to Dr. King by singing “Amazing Grace and “We Shall Overcome,” during the observance.

Cleveland County appoints Interim County Manager

At its January 17 meeting, the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners announced the appointment of interim County Manager Todd Carpenter. Mr. Carpenter will assume the role effective February 1, 2023, and will replace outgoing County Manager Brian Epley, who has accepted a position with another county in the same role.

Carpenter is a lifelong Cleveland County resident who brings more than 38 years of local government experience to the interim position.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to work with the great team in place in Cleveland County,” Carpenter said. “I look forward to steering the ship as the Board conducts a search for a permanent manager. I’m thankful for the trust placed in me by the Board of Commissioners and I look forward to

Kings Mountain; western Gaston County residents will soon see new, bright green QRV unit responding to calls

By MICHAEL E. POWELL

On Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, the City of Kings Mountain Fire Department and Gaston County Emergency Services (GEMS) partnered with each other to provide a new Quick Response Vehicle, or QRV, to the Kings Mountain Fire Department.

One thing is for sure… you WILL see this emergency vehicle coming; it is painted a bright, neon green and will be VERY visible, noted one of the folks attending the afternoon press and public meeting.

The new vehicle, according to KMFD Fire

American Legion Male Beauty Contest

By Loretta Cozart

11 a.m. meeting at the KMFD Fire Station, “EMS response times in Kings Mountain and western Gaston County have been a significant issue, most notably to industry on Canterbury Rd., two (2) housing subdivisions, and the I-85/US 74

began discussions a while back (September 2019) on the needs and plans for making our vision come about; to make it a reality,” said Chief Harmon. Harmon noted the response times in the Gaston County portion of Kings Mountain

and the western Gaston County area had “…the longest EMS response time of anywhere in the county.”

See EMS, Page 5A

Woman dies after stabbing, ex-boyfriend arrested

getting to work.”

Board of Commissioners Chairman Kevin Gordon expressed confidence in Carpenter’s abilities. “We are fortunate to have found such an experienced and knowledgeable leader who is willing to step in on an interim basis to assume the duties of County Manager,” Gordon said. “We welcome Todd to the team and look forward to working with him.”

The County Manager

American Legion Post 155 announces their Kings Mountain Male Beauty Contest on January 28, at 7 p.m. Dinner will be served beginning at 6 p.m. They invite all to come have dinner and enjoy an evening of family friendly entertainment. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance. Cost is $12 at the door.

Candidates participate in casual wear, evening wear, talent, and impromptu response events. Judges and talent include elected officials, business owners, well-known members of the community, and members of the American Legion. Sponsorships are available.

Tickets can be purchased at the American Legion between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, while supplies last.

Kings Mountain Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Thursday afternoon, January 19, near 400 Dixon School Road and I-85 on a vehicle of interest, a 2003 BMW 325I occupied by one white male and one white female.

The driver was identified as 37-year-old Timothy Prescott Parson and he was placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Kings Mountain Police Department for processing in connection to the murder of 34-year-old Ashley Erin Scoggins. He has been charged with homicide and assault on a female with no bond.

The passenger was identified as 42-year-old Tracy Marie Hartis. She was placed under arrest for obstruction of justice and transported to the Kings Mountain Police Department for processing.

On January 17, KMPD responded to the Silver Express at 501 E King Street

in reference to a stabbing. Officers discovered that a female had been assaulted with a knife and suffering from life threatening injuries.

The next day, the vehicle was located abandoned at a business in Kings Mountain. A search of the area was conducted but at this time Timothy Parson has not been located. The vehicle was seized and is in the possession of the KMPD.

Cleveland County

Emergency Medical Services and Kings Mountain Fire responded to the scene along with KMPD to provided medical care. The victim was transported to Kings Mountain Hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Parson, the victim's ex-boyfriend, was identified as the assailant. He allegedly assaulted the victim inside of the store before leaving the parking lot in a dark in color gray Nissan Sentra.

TIMOTHY PRESCOTT PARSON TRACY MARIE HARTIS

Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler delivers his comments at the GEMS QRV vehicle presentation on Monday at the Kings Mountain Fire department.

The new GEMS QRV, Unit 131, stands at the ready inside the bay of the Kings Mountain Fire Department.

Steve Crump is presented the Key to the City by Mayor Neisler. See more photos on page 3A. Photos by Angela Padgett

Kings Mountain Fire Chief Tommy Harmon speaks to the crowd at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 QRV presentation. (photos by Michael Powell)

Cameron

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Sherran Huffman Cameron, 59, of Kings Mountain, NC passed away on January 16, 2023 after a four year battle with ovarian cancer.

Sherran was born on December 30, 1963 to Clyde Huffman and Gloria Dean. She graduated from Blacksburg High School in 1982. She met and married her husband, Mark Cameron, in 1984. They were life partners for 38 years.

Sherran loved the Lord and witnessed to people until the very end of her life. She taught Sunday School for 25 years and was very involved in her church. She had the spiritual gift of servanthood and lived out that gift every day. She was always there for anyone who needed her and never met a stranger. She was extremely thoughtful and caring and was blessed with many great friends and family who will always love her.

She is survived by her husband, Mark Cameron; sister, Lisa Smith; brotherin-law, Jeffrey Smith; sister, Myra Huffman; son, Josiah Cameron; daughter-in-law, Dianna Cameron; daughter, Abigail Shirey; son-in-law, Warren Shirey; daughter, Hannah Cortes; son-in-law, Isaac Cortes; grandchildren: Maggie, Emmi Jane, and Rowan and many nieces and nephews.

Sherran lived for her family and many friends, whom she loved dearly. She adored her children and grandchildren.

A memorial service was held at First Baptist Church Kings Mountain, NC on Sunday January 22, 2023 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Church: 605 W. Kings St. Kings Mountain, NC 28086 Online condolences my be offered at cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Cameron family.

Marjorie Evelyn Bess

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Marjorie Evelyn Sellers Bess, 100, passed away on January 19, 2023 in Gastonia, NC. She was born in Gaston County, NC, daughter of the late Charlie Clayton and Mary Ella Sellers.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Wayne Bess; son, Robert Wayne Bess; daughter, Patricia Church; sisters, Ruth Hoyle, Edna Craft; brothers, Earl Sellers, Walter Sellers, Chatman Sellers and J. L. Sellers.

Mrs. Bess was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Kings Mtn. NC

She is survived by her son: Stephen Bess (Betty), Gastonia, NC; daughter-inlaw: Karen Bess; son-inlaw: Mike Church; brother: Herbert Sellers (Sue); sister: Mary Jackson; 4 grandchildren: Tracy Morgan (Frank), Gary Bess (Crystal), Kelly Bess and Kevin Bess; 5 great-grandchildren: Tyler Bess (Summer), Nathan Bess, Daniel Morgan, Daisy Morgan and Emmalyn Farmer; 4 great-great Grandchildren: Owen, Asher, Rory, Andi.

Funeral service was held at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Monday, January 23, 2023 at 2:30 P.M. Rev. Dr. Steve Taylor, officated.w

Visitation was held at 1:30 - 2:30 P.M. Monday, January 23, 2023 prior to the service in the Christian Activities Center of Bethlehem Baptist Church.

Interment was held in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, Bethlehem Baptist Church Building Fund, 1017 Bethlehem Road, Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086.

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

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

Deputy bitten while serving domestic violence protection order

Cleveland County Sheriff’s sergeant attempted to serve a domestic violence protection order on Aaron Lee Thomas, 42, at 2552 Whelchel Rd on Friday, January 13, 2023, at approximately 2:40 p.m. Mr. Thomas was immediately uncooperative, telling the sergeant “You will have to shoot me!” numerous times. The man retreated into his residence, only to re-emerge aggressively wielding a knife the first time, then with a knife and a machete.

The man went back inside and refused to speak with deputies, who were attempting to de-escalate the situation. A short time later, deputies noticed smoke coming from inside the residence and then saw the man emerge once again, this time holding his large dog by the collar as if he might release it on the deputies.

A deputy was able to use his TASER, which eventually incapacitated the man, causing him to fall back into the front doorway. When the man let loose of his dog, the dog attacked Deputy Robert Taylor, seriously biting him and causing multiple puncture wounds. Another deputy shot and killed the dog, who continued to be in the mode of attack. Once deputies rushed to Mr. Thomas to take him into custody, they saw the interior of the home was on fire. They had to hurriedly drag Mr. Thomas away from the residence that was completely engulfed in

Court dates set in Scoggins’ murder case

By Loretta Cozart

Timothy Parson, charged with the homicide of his ex-girlfriend, Ashley Scoggins on January 17, has had his court date set for Thursday, February 9 in Cleveland County. Parson’s first appearance in court was last week, before Judge Justin Brackett.

Crying in the courtroom, Parson heard his charges, “You have been charged with a class A one misdemeanor and a class A felony

carrying a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole, or the death penalty,” according to Judge Brackett. The judge mirandized Parson and told him that David Teddy is his court appointed attorney.

The judge set no bond in the first-degree murder charge, and Assistant District Attorney Kevin Sheriff shared information further with the judge of “prior crimes of violence, numerous assaults on female that

have been dismissed.” A secured bond of $50,000 set for the charge of assault on a female.

Tracy Marie Hartis, 42, a passenger in the car at the time of Parson’s arrest also went before the judge on a felony obstruction of justice charge. In a video first appearance, Hartis asked for a court appointed attorney.

According to Assistant DA Sheriff, Hartis “ provided false information to law enforcement officers in Kings Mountain and the

US Marshall Service during the course of the investigation and murder of Ashley Scoggins. That act immediately obstructed, impeded, and hindered their duties. She gave false information with respect to the timing and nature of travel after the murder of Ashley Scoggins and told investigators she had not been in contact with the murder suspect, Mr. Parsons.”

Hartis was given a secured bond of $75,000. Her next court date is February 9.

County Police respond to shooting

On Monday January 16, at about 6:00 p.m., the Gaston County Police Department responded to the 600 block of Hickory Grove Road, just north of McAdenville, in reference to a shooting. Several callers had advised a male at this location was shot one time in the leg. A wrecker was seen leaving the after right after the incident. Witnesses told police the shooting stemmed from a confrontation over a vehicle.

On Monday, January 23, Gaston County Police arrested both individuals involved in the shooting. Both suspects are currently

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

JAN. 5: Emmanuel Miquel Palmer, 23, 704 Katherine Avenue, failure to appear, driving while license revoked; failure to appear, expired registration; failure to appear, expired inspection, $1,000 secured bond.

JAN.6: Lillian Dawn Kinser, 48, 123 Castlerock Road, failure to appear, second degree trespass; failure to appear, resist, delay, obstruct, $500 secured bond.

JAN. 7: Jarvis Oneal Adams, 45, 403 Belvedere Circle, failure to appear, two counts assault on female, no bond. He was cited for driving with a revoked license.

JAN. 7: Justin Monyell Ward, 36, breaking and entering, misdemeanor, no bond.

KM Amusement Park, 420 S. Railroad Avenue.

JAN. 7: A resident of W. Mountain Street reported theft of a yard sign valued at $250.

JAN. 8: Walmart, 1011 Shelby Road, reported larceny of steaks and salmon valued at over $150.

JAN. 10: State Employee’s Credit Union, 2104 Shelby Road, reported an incidence of fraud.

WRECKS

speed as necessary to avoid colliding with a vehicle.

CITATIONS

JAN. 3: David Bryan West, 38, 410 Canterbury Road, expired tag, speeding.

JAN. 5: Cody Andra Keller, 25, Bessemer City, speeding.

JAN. 5: Najee Ocebesion Gainesgist, 834 Mountain Crest Drive, no operator’s license, expired tag, no insurance, expired inspection.

for Misdemeanor Failure to Appear.

Johnny Reeves Jr. is currently being held in the Gaston County Jail under a secure bond of $100,000 dollars. Conner was charged with Felony Larceny.

The investigation is on-going. Anyone with further information is asked to contact Det. S. Brogden at 704-866-3320 or Crimestoppers at 704861-8000. A reward of up to $1,000 is available for information pertinent to the investigation. There is no further information available currently.

JAN. 8: Onesimo Isidro Mendez, 800 First Street, no operator’s license, stop light violation.

JAN. 8: Kelvin Barnwell, 52, 305 Campbell Street, no operator’s license.

JAN.8: Xavier Sylek Buckner, 200 Lackey Street, speeding.

flames at that point.

Deputy Robert Taylor was transported by ambulance to Atrium- Cleveland Medical Center where he was treated and released for non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect was arrested without injury, and transported to Atrium- Cleveland Medical Center for treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

Charges have been obtained against Mr. Thomas for Second Degree Arson, Felony Assault

See DEPUTY, Page 3A

JAN. 10: Hubert Larry Nations Jr., 44, 105 Beech Lane, failure to appear, driving while license revoked, $1,000 unsecured bond.

INCIDENTS

JAN. 6: A resident of Jim Patterson Road reported $355 damage to the rear passenger window of his Pontiac.

JAN. 7: City of Kings Mountain, 101 W. Gold Street, reported $500 damage to a bathroom mirror, sink and stall door at the

DEC. 28,2022: Officer Earls cited Flor Demaria Godoy, 331 Oak Grove Road 23, with driving while driver’s license revoked after the 2019 Nissan she was driving struck a 2021 Ram operated by Thomas Eugene Slade, Gastonia, in the parking lot at 1011 Shelby Road. Property damage was estimated at $1,750.

JAN.7: Officer Dee said Cameron Blake Carringer, 159 Crown Court, operating a 2005 Ford, failed to stop at the stop sign and reduce speed and struck a 2001 Ford operated by Beverly Kay Lawrence, Lawndale. The accident happened on US 74 Business at the parking lot at 2111 Shelby Road. Property damage was estimated at $12,500. Carringer was cited for failure to decrease

Domestic dispute results in couple’s death

On January 15, at 11:27 p.m., Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a home at 6558 Casar Road in Casar. The call was about an active domestic situation between husband and wife.

The caller, David Owens, reported that he was in a domestic dispute with his wife, Clarice Owens. Mr. Owens then called Jordan Stephens, a family member, who lives next door to come to the residence.

Mr. Stephens arrived shortly before law enforcement and was assisting Mr. Owens in leaving the home for the night. As Mr. Owens walked out the door of the

residence his wife, Clarice presented a handgun and shot Mr. Owens who fell in the yard of the residence.

Mrs. Owens then turned her gun toward Mr. Stephens who was in close proximity and witnessed Mr. Owens get shot. Mr. Stephens fearing for his life pulled a handgun that he carries for personal defense and shot Mrs. Owens who also fell into the yard of the residence.

Deputies and EMS arrived on the scene shortly after the shootings and attempted lifesaving measures but neither of the Owens survived their injuries.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office Criminal

Investigation Division responded to the scene to process the scene for evidence and conduct interviews. The investigation is still ongoing and will be screened with the Cleveland County District Attorney’s Office once the investigation is complete.

JAN. 6: Henry Michael Hartleb, 23, 119 Castlerock Road, revoked driver’s license.

JAN. 6: Brandi Nicole Crespo, 40, 110 Benton Road, expired tag, speeding in school zone.

JAN. 6: Susan Annette Newton, 51, 400 Hill Street, stop sign violation.

JAN. 6: Kendra Gwyn Whitaker, 48, 121 Alston Circle, speeding.

JAN. 6: Christine Michelle Coleman, 28,1820 Alpine Drive, speeding in school zone.

JAN. 7: Melvin Vernon Smith, 66, 102 Toy Court, revoked driver’s license.

JAN. 7: Chris Leslie Siegler, 52, 131 Castlewood Road, revoked driver’s license, no insurance, no registration.

JAN. 8: Ginger Lackey Hammett, 1728 Kings Row Drive, red light violation.

JAN. 9: James Clayton Garrett, 39, 401 Baker Street, revoked driver’s license.

JAN. 9: Linda Richardson Guevara, 42, revoked driver’s license.

JAN. 10: Charles Michael Adams Jr., 67, 107 Butternut Drive, speeding in school zone.

JAN. 10: Darien Thomas Parker, 28, 811 Margrace Road, no vehicle registration.

Sherran Huffman

in the Gaston County Jail. Michael Conner is being held on a secured bond of $101,000 dollars. Conner was charged with Posses-

sion of Firearm by a felon, Felony Larceny, Assault with a Deadly Weapon inflicting serious injury. Connor also had a warrant

MICHAEL CONNERJOHNNY REEVES JR.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in KM

Preschool screenings in March, by appointment only

Cleveland County School District’s Preschool screenings for 2023-2024 preschool classes will be held March 20 – 24 at the Office of School Readiness, 308 W. Marion Street, Building B in Shelby.

Screening is for children who live in Cleveland County and will be 4 years old by August 31.

For more information, or to schedule a screening appointment, call 704-4768064 from 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Appointments will be scheduled until all slots are filled, and no appointments will be made after February 24. Screening is provided by appointment only.

County taking nominations for Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service

The Governor's Volunteer Service Award honors the true spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals, groups, and businesses that make a significant contribution to their community through volunteer service.

Cleveland County is Ac-

cepting local nominations for the 2023 Governor's Volunteer Service Awards through February 8. For full details or to nominate a deserving local volunteer visit https://www.clevelandcounty.com under Media.

DEPUTY

From Page 2A

on a Law Enforcement Officer w/serious injury, Felony Assault on Emergency Personnel, and Felony Obstructing Justice, and he was served with the domestic violence protective order, however, he continues to receive treatment at Atrium- Cleveland. As such, he has not received a bond or been booked into the detention center yet.

Sheriff Alan Norman said, “Our agency serves, on average, well over 70 new domestic violence protective orders per month. Serving these protective orders has real potential for violence. In this case, the man was only going to be evicted from the residence until he had his day in court, due to allegations of domestic violence.

I am proud of our deputies for creating space and using time to try to peacefully resolve this situation. Despite their best efforts, this man showed his intent to not cooperate through these extreme measures, and they risked their own lives to save him and bring him to justice.”

Actors Ryan Anthony and Lauren Ainsworth of Bright Star Touring Theatre present, “Meet Dr. King.”

Henry Gilmore, III sang two inspirational songs in tribute to Dr. King.

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County

TODAY’S QUOTE:

If you love your work, you’ll be out there every day trying to do it the best you possibly can, and pretty soon everybody around will catch the passion from you - like a fever. – Sam Walton

Pieces of Kings Mountain History

Monday, January 23, marked the 50th anniversary of President Richard Nixon’s speech to the nation announcing the agreement to end the war in Vietnam. At that time, I was just 12 years old and had watched accounts of the war through the lens of CBS News, with commentary from Walter Cronkite.

LORETTA COZART

Looking back, it was such sad news for one of such a tender age. I vividly remember watching live reports from the battlefield of correspondent Dan Rather, who often shared his stories while crouched in a ditch near the fighting.

The night of President Nixon’s speech, my husband’s father came to him crying, and told him he would not have to serve in Vietnam. That conversation made an indelible mark upon my husband and is a conversation that he will never forget.

Before the cease fire, daily we heard of the increasing war casualty numbers from the safety of our living rooms. It was a scary time and I remember worrying for my brothers, too. Our nation was at war, and both were approaching draft age.

Here are a few excerpts from President Nixon’s speech that day: “At 12:30 Paris time today, January 23, 1973, the Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam was initialed by Dr. Henry Kissinger on behalf of the

United States, and Special Adviser Le Duc Tho on behalf of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam [North Vietnam]. . . . [T]he United States and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam [South Vietnam] express the hope that this agreement will ensure stable peace in Vietnam and contribute to the preservation of lasting peace in Indochina and Southeast Asia.”

President Nixon continued his speech, but America had heard what it needed to hear: the fighting in Vietnam had ended.

I cannot imagine what the families of the sons and daughters serving in Vietnam might have felt at this news.

Moreover, I cannot imagine what the families of those who were lost during the war were going through. The thought of that is utterly heartbreaking.

In 1982, when the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. was dedicated, 57,939 members of U.S. armed forces were listed as having died or were missing because of the war. Over the following years, additions to that list brought the total past 58,200.

Closer to home, Kings Mountain lost ten men who died during the Vietnam War. Let us not forget them and the heartache their families felt. We call being killed in action (KIA) the “ultimate sacrifice.” I suppose that is accurate, but everyone in a family who loses a family member to war feels that loss personally. It is real, and they are reminded daily of it …. at dinner, at birthdays, at

Looking Back

A few weeks ago, Hayne Neisler shared more interesting information about early times in Kings Mountain. He wrote: ‘’Most people believe the first school in Kings Mountain was Captain Bell’s military academy. In fact, before the town of Kings Mountain was founded in 1874, the small community here was called White Plains. In 1860, the White Plains Male and Female Academy was organized. Located near the current El Bethel Church, the following ad appeared in newspapers across the state.

White Plains Male and Female Academy

The next session of this school will open under the supervision of J.N. Baird, on Tuesday the 15th of January 1860 and continue for twenty weeks. Tuition varies from

$5 to $15 per session. Board will be $6 or $7 per month. Students admitted at any time and charged from time of entrance to the close, without deduction expect in the case of extended sickness.

This school is located in the Southeastern part of Cleveland County, five miles west of Crowders Mountain, in a neighborhood proverbial for health and morality. For particulars, address the Principal, White Plains , Cleveland County, N.C.

The academy operated in 1860 and 1861 and closed after the outbreak of the Civil War.

Also few people are aware that town of Kings Mountain had a college located here. In 1884, Captain Bell opened a college at the site of his military academy. Called the Kings Mountain Busi-

ness College, twenty-one students enrolled. The following ad appeared in local newspapers.

Kings Mountain Business College In connection with the Kings Mountain High School, a business college under the direction of Frank P. Martz Ph. D., will open August 24th, 1884. Professor Martz is an expert in book-keeping, German, and economics. Expense of the Full Course, board, tuition, etc. in Book-keeping and all kindred branches, will not exceed $100. No uniform or drill required in the Business College. Students may enter at any time.

Enrollment for the second year, in 1885, fell to thirteen students causing the college to fold after only two years of operation.”

anniversaries, and during holidays. The empty chair is all too real for them. Let us remember them, also, on this solemn anniversary.

Those who were lost from Kings Mountain include:

• Christopher Eugene Brooks, Army, KIA July 3, 1966

• Roy Benjamin Cochran, Army, KIA March 16, 1968

• Robert Larry Dellinger, Army, KIA October 27, 1968

• Charlie Melvin Ellison, Navy, KIA

February 27, 1969

• Michael Allan Graham, Army, KIA October 7, 1970

• Dudley Carroll Hughes, Jr., Navy, KIA December 23, 1967

• Sammy Ray Morrison, Army, KIA May 24, 1970

• William (Pete) Dale Small, Marines, KIA, July 15, 1969

• Gregory Wayne Thomas, Marines, KIA May 21, 1968

• Harold Hugh Welch, Army, KIA January 29, 1968

Renting or buying, which is best for you?

A retired minister and his wife had never owned a house. They had spent all their married lives living in housing provided by churches.

At age 65 they bought a house and financed it for 15 years. They had been frugal and had saved a good down payment. They paid for the house by age 80. The value of the house increased over the years and at age 83 they sold the house and received a very nice check. The money from the sale was enough to help them fund their next 10 years in a nice assisted living apartment. While taking on a mortgage at 65 appeared crazy to some it afforded them financial security further down the road.

Many years ago, I bought a modest new house that cost $151,000. I barely scraped together the nearly $30,000 down payment. The house was financed for 15 years. I began the laborious journey of writing a monthly check to the bank. After about eight years, I needed money to pay medical bills and was able to borrow $30,000 against my

equity. It was nice that I had the equity because at that time I really needed the cash. Looking back, I would never do that again because it made the actual cost of my house increase to $181,000. For a couple of years, I had two payments to make to the bank. A couple of years later my wife passed. If I had needed to borrow $10,000 against my house, I could have done so to pay for funeral expenses. Fortunately, we had both taken out small insurance policies that covered that cost. Eventually, I refinanced and consolidated the mortgages. By the grace of God, I still paid for the house in 15 years.

I don’t like monthly payments or paying rent. For most of us, at some point in our lives there will be a monthly payment of some kind. I’ve lived in apartments on several occasions and even houses furnished to me by congregations I served. I didn’t care for either one. I’m not saying I wouldn’t do it again but my preference is to live in a place that is actually mine for as long as possible.

Renting a house or an apartment works for many at different stages of life. Buying a house is tough because it is a major financial commitment. You normally have to come up with 20 percent of the

price to pay down as well as have the income to make the payments. That’s not always easy.

New houses in a nearby neighborhood are presently selling for $400,000. Most of them are modest three- to four-bedroom houses. Having enough money to make the down payment and monthly payments is a lot for any person or family.

However, rent is expensive. Depending on where you live you may be paying $800 to $3,000 a month for a small apartment. You don’t have maintenance or property taxes but you’ll also never see that money again.

A friend of mine sold her house at age 70 and moved into an apartment complex for people over age 55. She pays rent but she says the landlord treats her well and is timely with upkeep. A landlord who is very untimely with upkeep is very frustrating.

There are pros and cons to owning and renting.

Choosing depends on your situation and personal preferences. A landlord can raise your rent and have rules pertaining to pets, painting, and more.

However, it may be just exactly what you need.

Typically, you don’t want to sink your money into property if you are going to move in

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Highway Patrol graduates 37 new troopers

The State Highway Patrol welcomed 36 new troopers on Friday, January 20, at a graduation ceremony held for the 157th Basic Highway Patrol School. The ceremony commemorates 27 weeks of extensive training to prepare the graduates for a rewarding career in law enforcement.

Three of the state troopers will serve the local area. They are Brian Hawkins, serving Cleveland County; Cody Childress, serving Gaston County; and Jason Marshall, serving Gaston County.

The ceremony was held at the Shepherd’s Church in Cary at 10:00 a.m. Department of Public Safety Secretary Eddie M. Buffaloe, Jr. served as guest speaker and provided congratulatory remarks to the graduates.

The oath of office was administered by Judge Jeffrey K. Carpenter of the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Colonel Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol, provided remarks to the newest sworn members of the State High-

way Patrol.

“As new state troopers, we feel you are ready to fulfill this role and be ambassadors who represent the State Highway Patrol,” said Johnson. “My charge to you is to be a leader in your community by your actions, your character and your important role as a law enforcement officer.”

These new state troopers will report to their respective duty stations on Wednesday, Feb. 15, to begin a demanding field training program.

EMSFrom Page 1A

To that end, Chief Harmon said Gaston County “… facilitated the implementation of the first responder program by providing radios and dispatch services for calls in Gaston County.”

He added that KMFD then began “…to respond to all medical emergencies in the Gaston County portion of the city in 2022.”

In the department’s media release, Chief Harmon also noted the primary reason for locating the new GEMS QRV at the KMFD station (which is just inside Cleveland County) are as follows: “1.) quick access to Canterbury Road industry and the housing developments of Linwood and Northwoods; 2.) quick access to I-85 northbound

MANAGER

From Page 1A serves as the chief administrator of county government. His duties include

and the area of Exit 10; and 3.) addressing this area as the next longest EMS response time in Gaston County.”

Harmon continued, “Additionally, the City of Kings Mountain welcomes this partnership and will allow GEMS to room-in at no cost.”

The two entities both acknowledge they “enjoy a great relationship,” with it being noted in the media release that, “KMFD and GEMS have an excellent working partnership.”

It is further noted that, “The GEMS QRV is the next step in the expansion and enhancement of services to the residents, visitors, industry, and taxpayers of Gaston County in this area.”

Chief Harmon, in referring to the KMFD first responder program, said the new GEMS QRV is, “…the icing on the cake.”

overseeing County departments, programs, and operations pursuant to the policies, ordinances, and directives adopted by the Board of County Commissioners.

A search for a full-time

Chief Lamphiear thanked everyone for coming out as did Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler, who also thanked Gaston County Manager, Dr. Kim Eagle and all the Gaston and Cleveland County dignitaries and officials present for the ceremony. Mayor Neisler also praised the men and women of the KMFD and GEMS for what they do to serve others.

Chief Lamphiear also noted the new QRV was “a bridge to the future” for KMFD and Gaston County.

Gaston County Commissioner Bob Hovis noted how “public safety is the number one priority for the county and its residents, adding it is Gaston County’s honor to place the new QRV at KMFD to serve the people in the county and the area.

County Manager is underway utilizing a nationwide executive search firm. The position reports directly to the Board of Commissioners and will be hired by that five-member board.

the Albemarle Kings Mountain project

Gaston County EMS Chief Mark Lamphiear addresses the crowd at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 presentation of the GEMS QRV to the Kings Mountain Fire Department. (photos by Michael Powell)

The GEMS Honor Guard files in for the Posting of the Colors at the Presentation of the Colors at the Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 presentation ceremony of the GEMS QRV to the Kings Mountain Fire Department.

The EMS professionals who will assume the duties of QRV Unit 131; left to right, are: Paramedics Jake Hoffman, Nick Wilkinson, Josh Helton, and Selina Rodriguez.

TROOPER BRIAN HAWKINS TROOPER CODY CHILDRESS TROOPER JASON MARSHALL

Last weekend I used a new computer

pay a bill. I was accustomed to putting in the username and the password would automatically popup. This time it didn’t happen, so I thought, not a problem, I know the password. After a few attempts of manually entering it, the system locked me out. Afterwards, I remembered two of the letters were capitalized, but it was too late. It was a long holiday weekend and there was no one working to help

with the reset. As a result, I could not get help until the following Tuesday, but by then it was too late, my account was now past due and with that came a late fee, just because I didn’t remember my password. It cost me more than I planned to pay.

In Judges 12, there was a tribal conflict between Gilead and Ephraim. During the conflict some Ephraimites escaped and when one of them said to the Gileadites, let me cross over the Jordan, the Gileadites would ask them to say the word Shibboleth but they

could not pronounce it correctly and said, Sibboleth. The Gileadites would then kill the Ephraimites because they couldn’t say Shibboleth (Judges 12:5-6). This transpired during the time of a Judge named Jephthah. He led a group of Gileadites in war with the Ammonites and when God had given them the victory and great recognition, a group of fellow Israelites, the Ephraimites, became upset because they didn’t assist the Gileadites even though they were asked to help. Jealousy rose up in the Ephraimites and they began to attack the Gileadites. How often do we get upset or jealous when fellow believers achieve something great for the kingdom and attention is turned toward them? As this battle ensued, the Ephraimites, who from

all outward appearances looked like the Gileadites, fled for safety toward the crossing at the Jordan. When they arrived to cross over, the Gileadites, who were the keepers of the crossing at the Jordan River would ask if they were Ephraimites. If they answered no, the Gileadites would ask them to say the password, Shibboleth, and if they could not pronounce it correctly, they were killed (42,000). I began to wonder how many of us who look like, dress like and talk Christ like, will journey through this life and get to the final crossing not remembering the correct passwords of humility, honor, helps ,and holiness, forgetting the ”H” in each word and as a result, we don’t make it to the other side. Be Blessed!

Westover Concert Sunday, January 29

www.momsinprayer.org

OUR MISSION: Moms in Prayer International impacts children and schools worldwide for Christ by gathering mothers to pray.

• Working Moms

• Homeschool Moms

• College Praying Moms

• Moms of Career Age

Young Adults

• Military Families

• Moms Praying For Prodigals

• Special Needs Praying Moms

• Church Based Groups

• Language Based Groups

• Prison Based Groups

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

Concord United Methodist Church 2404 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Bessemer City, NC

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

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

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 7011 Cleveland Avenue Progressive Church of 1001 Cleveland Avenue

Resurrection Lutheran 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

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

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

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

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

Dr. John L. Houze People’s Baptist Church

Charlie Griffin will be in concert at Westover Baptist Church, 114 Westover Drive, on Sunday, January 29th at 11:00 am. Everyone is welcome.

KM Middle School student publishes children’s book

By Loretta Cozart

While most middle schoolers spend their summers watching television, spending time at the pool with friends, or chatting on social media, Kalashja Womick spent last summer writing her first book, “To The Mountains We Go!”.

February library news

By Mari Slaughter

Mauney Memorial Library has the following events scheduled during February. Mauney Memorial Library is located at 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. The library will be closed Saturday, February 18 and February 20 in observance of Presidents’ Day. Be sure follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Technology Assistance

Make an appointment 704-739-2371

Library Storytime in Person (preschoolers)

Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 am, 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)

Fridays 10:00-11:30 am, Mauney Library Community Room. Play in centers, then enjoy a story, music, and a take home craft with Miss. Anne.

Cancer Education Class (Adults) (Registration Required). Monday, February 6th 10 – 11 am, Library Community Room. Levine Cancer Institute is hosting this free cancer education on tumor types, early testing, and prevention. Attendees can receive a free blood pressure and glucose check.

Book Club: “Educated” by Tara Westover (Adults) Monday, February 6th 6:00– 7:00 pm. Join the Mauney Library book

club and meet with people every month to discuss popular books. Contact info@mauneylibrary.org to join!

Movie Showing: Respect (Adults) Monday, February 13th 5:00 – 7:30 pm, Library Community Room. Enjoy a showing of the 2021 Aretha Franklin biopic Respect while eating free popcorn!

Small Business Success (Adults) (Registration Required) Wednesday, February 15th 10:00-11:00 am, Library Community Room. Join local businesswoman Nakisha Wenzel, owner of Big Red’s Café, to hear her journey to success, and learn some essential tips for small business. Light refreshments to be served.

Lego Club (ages 6-12) Third Thursday of every month 3:30-4:30 pm, Library Community Room. Free build and participate in group projects, snacks provided.

President’s Day Observance February 18th through February 20th, Houseplant Propagation (Adults) (Registration Required), Tuesday, February 21st 2-3pm. Join Master Gardener Judy Ford to learn how easy it is to propagate many popular houseplants. Bring in your own houseplant if you’d like to share a part

of it with others.

Understanding Personal Finances (Adults) (Registration Required), Wednesday, February 22nd 10:00 am – 2 pm

This course presents essential knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about real world financial decisions. Students will understand strategies to achieve financial success. Some of the topics that will be included in this class are:

Knowing How To Manage Your Money, How To Pay Your Debts, How To Save Money, How To Avoid Poor Financial Choices, Money Strategies and Goal Achievement.. Presented by Cleveland Community College. This continuing education class is free if you meet one of the four following criteria:

• Are unemployed • Are being laid off • Are working and are eligible for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit

• Are working and earn at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines

Please pick up a class fee waiver at Mauney Library. You will need to bring it to class.

Zoom’N On-Line Book Group

(Adults) (Registration Required) Read. Relish. Recap. Read a book of your choice and share with the group. Fourth Wednesday of every month 4:005:00 pm Register: info@ mauneylibrary.org event calendar. Event URL will be sent via registration email.

“The Spirit of Harriet Tubman” (Adults)

Thursday, February 23rd 4:00 – 5:00 pm. The spirit of freedom is alive in Diane Faison, who retells the Harriet Tubman story and refuses to let the lessons of history fade from memory in this onewoman play. Learn more about Diane Faison at her website https://www.dianefaison.life.

Jewelry Class: Bird’s Nests Pendants (Adults) (Registration Required), Tuesday, February 28th, 1:00 – 4:00 pm

Make your own bird’s nest pendant with wire and beads in this fun, hands-on workshop. Participants will be sharing a set of tools with a partner. If you own your own jewelry crafting tools, please bring them to class.

Kalashja is a ninth grader at Kings Mountain Middle School and was inspired by her aunt Cynthia Stitt to write her first book. “My aunt inspired me to write this book and with the encouragement from my parents, Barbara, and Trent Dillard , I finished it in three months. My aunt is an author, and she knows the process of publishing through Amazon. Once I finished writing and illustrating the book, she took it from there.”

“To The Mountains We Go!” is a story written for children between 5-years and 10-years-old. The main character, Lay is an adventurous little girl. She is excited about her trip to the mountains. She spends time there fishing, hiking, and camping. While there, she gets sad. According to Kalashja, the moral behind this story is, “Your destination stops when you do.” The book asks readers, “Would

you like to see the amazing things to do in the beautiful mountains? If so, let's take a trip to the mountains with Lay, ‘Here we go!’"

“I didn’t find the publishing side of the book too hard. It took three months to write and illustrate the book and two months to get it published. The book went on sale Amazon on August 7, 2022. So far, I’ve sold about 250 books. I am grateful for the support of

my family throughout this process.”

“I want to tell others not to let your age get in the way of things you want to do. Once you set your mind to do something, you can do anything,” Kalashja said. She has begun work on her second book in this series titled, “To The Beach We Go!” Who knows what adventures Lay might find there?

SASi “Small Wonders” art competition and exhibit

by Jewel Reavis

Southern Arts Society’s first exhibit of the new year “Small Wonders” opens this week featuring works of art with an image size of 5 x 7 inches or less. Artists were challenged to produce works in a smaller format showing their skill at planning and executing artwork in miniature. The technical skill of the artist is put to the test to produce artwork that maintains their style and quality. While working on a smaller scale is not always easy for the artist, it benefits the buyer who wants to purchase multiple works at an affordable price.

Artists from around the region have submitted over

seventy works of art to be judged for cash prizes. Work can be found in a variety of media: oil, acrylic and pastel paintings, mixed media, fiber, wood, and col-

lage.

The public is invited to meet participating artists at a public reception on Saturday February 4th from 6-8 See SASI, Page 8A

(Ed. Note- The recipes in today’s’ Cooking Corner’ are from ‘’ Monumental Recipes’’ Vol 2 published by Kings Mountain Woman’s Club.)

CHICKEN POT PIE

in 9x12 inch baking dish. Bring to a boil in a saucepan chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour over chicken. Mix margarine, flour, buttermilk. Pour over chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Turn heats up to 450 degrees to brown for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

CROWDERS MOUNTAIN TRAIL DAY – Crowders Mountain State Park plans another Volunteer Day Saturday, January 28, 8:30 a.m. until noon. Come spend the morning at Crowders and help on the Campground Trail above Pinnacle Trail. Snacks and drinks provided. Meet at Sparrow Springs Visitor Center, 522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC. All are welcome. (By Loretta Cozart)

KALASHJA WOMICK

Reverie (mixed media) by Mary Bartrop

Suspects caught on camera

Gastonia Police Department asks if anybody recognizes the two suspects pictured who used a fake ID with a victim’s personal information to open a credit card accounts at Kay Jewelers and The Home Depot.

The suspects fraudulently charged a total of over $11,000 between the two accounts. One charge at The Home Depot was the fraudulent purchase of over $4,600 for a John Deere riding mower.

The truck the suspects used to transport the riding mower is pictured. A second silver sedan was also used by one of the suspects. If you have any information about these suspects or their vehicles, please call detectives at (704) 854-6647 or Crime Stoppers of Gaston County at 704-861-8000. You may be eligible for a cash reward and callers may remain anonymous.

Sheriff Norman recognizes outstanding staff at CCSO

Sheriff Alan Norman recognized several individuals this morning for different awards, promotions, retirements, and actions in the line of duty.

Deputy B. Tesseneer and Detention Officer T. Swaney were presented member of the quarter awards.

The Criminal Investigative Division was awarded the 2022 Squad Fitness Award. The top five finishers from the division were:

Sergeant D. Shaffer

Investigator M. Clayton

Investigator C. Carpenter

Investigator A. Shumate

Investigator A. Paz. Deputy S. Staton was awarded the 2022 Top Fitness Award.

Ten members of the agency were presented 2022 Top 10 Shooter awards:

Investigator M. Hinson

Deputy A. Beal

Investigator A. Shu-

Lieutenant D. Bryson

Investigator D. Toney

Deputy K. Smith

Deputy M. Lawrence

for his actions during his line of duty injury in August 2018. He was presented a shadow box with his service

Detention Officer G. Woodard was promoted to

SASI

From Page 7A

pm. Awards will be presented at 7 pm. This is a Free event and dress is casual. Winners will then be posted on Southern Arts Society’s website and Facebook page. The exhibit is on view through February 24, 2023. Artwork in the exhibit is available for sale.

The Gift Shop at Southern Arts Society also has new artwork, jewelry, textiles, pottery and note cards suitable for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.

Southern Arts Society (SASi) Gift Shop & Gallery is located at 301 N. Piedmont Ave. at the intersection of Piedmont and Battleground Avenues in the historic Southern Railway Depot. SASi offers a gift shop, ongoing art exhibitions and competitions, programs, and classes in a variety of media for artists of all levels. Gallery Hours: Tues through Sat, 10 am to 3 pm, and by Appointment. Admission is Free. The public is asked to wear a mask when visiting. For more information go to SouthernArtsSociety.org or call 704.739.5585. Email southernartssociety@gmail.com.

Tim Sims was recognized heroic actions in the line of duty. Photos by Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office

Detention Officer G. Woodard was promoted to Corporal.

Painted Bunting (thread painting) by Janet Baxter.

Reverie (scratchboard) by Shelby Sabelli.

SUSPECTS

Kings Mountain slugger Rusty Bumgardner inducted into National Softball Hall of Fame

Kings Mountain native Rusty Bumgardner’s sports career came full circle recently when he was inducted into the National Softball Hall of Fame at its 41st annual ceremony in Shreveport, LA.

His list of Hall of Fame inductions include the Kings Mountain Sports Hall of Fame and the USSSA, ISA, WSL, ASA, USA and North Carolina USSSA Halls of Fame. Bumgardner says this latest honor and his hometown hall of fame inductions are the most special.

“Any Hall of Fame is truly awesome,” Bumgardner said, “but my hometown and this means more to me. This is the original. I’m privileged to be in it. It dates back to the sixties when they had teams like Howard’s Furniture and other big time teams that paved the way. That makes this award even more meaningful.”

Longtime Kings Mountain High School fans can remember Bumgardner’s exploits on the football and baseball fields. He went on to play four years of football at Wake Forest University under Coach Bill Dooley and he and his high school teammate Aubrey Hollifield helped the Deacons post some of their best records back then.

“We were both redshirted our freshman year and then started every year,” he recalled. “We graduated Kings Mountain High School in ’87 and we had

really good teams there in 1985 and 1986. In the fall of ’86 we won the conference championship for the first time since 1964. Both of us played four years and were winners our last season.

“Some of my best memories were at Kings Mountain Junior High and High School,” he said. “David Heffner was our coach at the junior high and Denny Hicks at the high school. Then I helped Coach (Bruce) Clark in high school baseball. My father (the late Bud Bumgardner) helped him from ’89 to ’93 when we won state championships.

I had just started at Wake Forest when dad got sick.

I took a semester off in the spring of 1989 and helped Coach Clark that year. I also helped Coach Clark in ’93. In ’89 we had people like Paul Brannon and Dale Greene and in ’93 people like Stephen Fisher, Todd Ware, Rick Marr, Damon Putnam and others. The ’89 team wasn’t expected to win. We didn’t even win the conference. South Point did. Once the playoffs started we got on a roll. Paul Brannon hit 20 home runs and Chad and Chris Plonk had double digit home runs. Our pitching staff fell in place with Todd McDaniel, Robert Wingo and Sharee Hopper. Wingo was a sophomore

and pitched the state championship game. The hitting and pitching just all came together at the right time.”

Always a heavy hitter in baseball, Bumgardner was a natural for softball. He got his start with Coach Mike Grayson, whose wife Suzanne would later join the coaching staff at KMHS and lead the girls volleyball and softball teams to state championships.

Looking back on his Wake Forest career, Bumgardner said it was “just overwhelming. You started having fun and the football team just took off under Coach Dooley.

“As far as baseball, I just played my senior year because football was over. But I wish I’d played all four years. It was a memorable time. My freshman year of football our left tackle got hurt and they put me in there and I became a starter.”

His first start is one he will always remember.

“It was against Michael Dean Perry at Clemson,” he noted. “On film I saw him just picking up people and throwing them out of the way. I was determined he wasn’t going to do that to me. It ended up he made just

one tackle that day.”

As for softball, he said the highlight was playing on teams that won 24 world titles and had 34 all-star selections. Bumgardner was All-World four times and

was a two-time World Series MVP.

All-World, he said, was like an All-American team. He was All-American 18 straight years beginning

Rusty Bumgardner is pictured with other inductees into the National Softball Hall of Fame. From left to right, the late Christian Dowling’s family, Pup Shortland, coach of team USA Softball and All Military team, Rusty Bumgardner and Brett Helmer who both played on the first three team USA teams and also played several years together on the circuit.

Rusty Bumgardner is pictured with his family at his induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame.

Rusty Bumgardner is inducted into the National Softball Hall of Fame.

NG Wildcats here Friday

After the last of five straight road games tonight in Shelby, Kings Mountain High’s basketball teams will get back into Parker Gym Friday night for a Big South Conference doubleheader with the North Gaston Wildcats and will remain at home next Tuesday against the Forestview Jaguars.

While the Lady Mountaineers have had a bumpy road lately, the KM men have stayed in the thick of the Big South Conference race as the regular season hits the home

Mountaineers regain share of lead with 61-55 victory over Ashbrook

stretch.

After Forestview, the BSC schedule will be down to three games as the Mountaineers have games at South Point on Feb. 3 and end up at home against Stuart Cramer on February 7 and Crest on February 10. Between those last two games, on Feb. 8, they will go to Cox Mill for a non-conference contest.

The BSC tournament will be held Feb. 13, Feb. 15 and Feb. 17 at a site to be determined. The state tournament begins on Tuesday, Feb. 21

Chargers sweep KM

Kings Mountain High’s varsity basketball teams were defeated by county rival Crest in the final game of the first half of the Big South Conference schedule Tuesday night at Ed Peeler Gymnasium in Boiling Springs.

The Crest women came out on top 64-27. In the men’s game, the Chargers and Mountaineers were deciding who would take sole possession of first place and the hosts prevailed 69-51.

The Crest men were obviously on fire fueled with the goal of winning in memory of the school’s all-time winningest coach Ed Peeler, who passed away several days prior to the game. The Mountaineers stayed with them – and actually led on several occasions – early but the Chargers gradually pulled away in the second half.

Crest led by just 13-11 after the first period and 30-21 at the half. The biggest damage was done by A.J. Adams who scored all of his 19 points before intermission. Tylik Briscoe and D’various Surratt also hit

double digits with 15 and 11 points, respectively.

Kings Mountain, which fell to 6-1 in the BSC, got a game-high 20 points from freshman Bradley Floyd but he was the only Mountaineer to hit double digits.

The Crest ladies were also dominant. Monica Surratt and Neveah Blackwell led the winners with 14 and 13 points, respectively. Their defense limited KM’s top scorer Khalia King to just two points. CoRey Simpson led the Lady Mountaineers with 12 points and eight rebounds. Tyasia Bell had eight points and five rebounds. Myracle Davis had four points and four boards and Aaliya Miller rounded out the scoring with one point.

BOYS BOXSCORE

KM (51) – Floyd 20, Simpson 8, Linney 7, Robinette 6, Smith 4, Sanders 4, Brown 2.

C (69) – Adams 19, Briscoe 15, Surratt 11, Goodlett 8, Pass 5, Hemphill 3, Whisnant 3, Mitchell 2, Thurmond 2, Huskey 1.

Patriots roll 62-13 over West Lincoln

Kings Mountain Middle School’s boys basketball team won its third division game in a row last week, defeating West Lincoln 62-13.

Nazire Davis and Christian Jarrett made backto-back baskets to get the Patriots off to a quick 4-2 start. They kept rolling and increased to lead to 19-2.

Jarrett led the scoring during the run, scoring six of his eight points to put the Patriots up 23-4.

During the second quarter the Kings Mountain bench kept up the scoring pace as five players scored.

RUSTY

From Page 1B in 1994. He is 11th on the list of the top 50 home run hitters of all time with 2,344 home runs. Nine of those top 11 were people that played on barn storming teams like Howard’s Furniture of Denver that traveled all over the country several days a week playing softball. Bumgardner always played for teams that just played on weekends, thus he had fewer at-bats than sluggers on barn storming teams. For example, a slugger on a barn storming team would average about 2,400 atbats a year while Bumgardner and others on weekend teams would average about 250 to 300 at-bats per year.

“The dimensions of the fields back then were a lot smaller than when we played,” Bumgardner noted. “And, they were swinging wooden bats. I remember seeing a Shriners tournament at the Kings Mountain Community Center and saw people like Stan Harvey and Don Arndt of Howard’s Furniture. It was crazy watching those guys hit the ball so far. I said ‘one day I’m going to be like

Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers regained a share of first place in the Big South Conference Friday night. While the Mountaineers were defeating Ashbrook 61-55 the previously undefeated Crest Chargers were losing to the Hunter Huss Huskies in Boiling Springs.

Those results left the Mountaineers and Chargers tied for first, but they were facing another big obstacle last night when they were in Gastonia again, this time playing the Hunter Huss Huskies who were looking to

avenge an earlier close loss to the Mountaineers at Parker Gym.

Kings Mountain got the upper hand early and led the Green Wave 17-7 after the first period and 38-18 at the half. But the Green Wave got on a roll in the third period and outscored the Mountaineers 24-11 to trail by just 49-42 heading into the final eight minutes.

The Mountaineers were able to hold them off with good defense and an offense featuring three players in double figures. Freshmen

Bradley Floyd and Tucker Robinette led the way with 17 points each and junior Zay Smith scored 13 including five of nine from the free throw line. The Mountaineers were also strong on the boards with Floyd grabbing 12 rebounds, Bryson Brown nine and Curtis Simpson seven.

The Ashbrook girls stayed in a tie for first place with Stuart Cramer by turning back the Lady Mountaineers 41-27 in the opening game. Khalia King led the KM ladies with 13 points and also grabbed

four rebounds. CoRey Simpson had five points and seven rebounds, Farri Martin four points, Tyasa Bell two points and six rebounds and Austyn Dixon one point and five rebounds.

BOYS BOXSCORE

KM (61) – Floyd 17, Robinette 17, Smith 13, Simpson 7, Osborne 3, Brown 2, Sanders 2.

A (55) – Greene 19, Leslie 11, Patton 8, Clark 7, Miller 3, Bess 2, June 2.

KMHS relay team qualifies for state

Last Thursday night the Kings Mountain High indoor track and field teams participated in the Titan II indoor track meet in Winston Salem. This is a true indoor facility and the location of the 3A state championship on Febru-

ary 10.

The men’s 4x800m relay finished second and qualified for the state meet by running a new school record of 8:43. The team consisted of Max Thompson, Marty Lovingood, Isaiah Watts, and Hunter

Cruise. Also qualifying in the pole vault was Nicolas Horne with a vault of 10’0”. Andre Willis added two second place finishes in the 55m high hurdles and the 55m dash. He had already qualified in the 55m hurdles earlier this season.

The highest-finishing Lady Mountaineer was Divinity Ervin finishing second in the 1600m run with a 6:01. She also was in the fourth place 4x800m women’s relay with teammates Brooke Waseman, Sarah Eagle, and Sindy Ulloa.

Qua Ingram scored six points during the run and Coryon Gaines’ deep three from the left wing gave the Patriots a 39-6 lead at halftime.

KM came out strong to start the second half and the lead increased to over 40 points. Christian Hill scored four of his game-high 11 points and Xavier Hutchens pitched in with five. Yates Toney and Malachi Powell added four points as the lead increased to 54-11 going into the fourth quarter.

Camren Houser and Joe See PATRIOTS Page 5B

that.’”

Bumgardner quit playing travel ball in 2015. He said his life was “built around softball but my body was telling me I’d had enough. My kids had started playing ball and I wanted to watch them. I don’t miss softball at all.

“Plus, the game had started changing,” he said. “There was a lot of drama in the game. The best time of my career was in the ‘90s and early 2000s when softball was still softball. We were always battling to be number one. That was a goal for the team. The home runs weren’t the main thing. Yes, I could hit them but I wanted the team to win championships.

“Yes, I led the team in home runs, batting average and being named Player of the Year many times. But it’s not a one man deal. I was always about the team, not myself.

“I’m glad I went in the Hall of Fame with the people I did. They were three of the best of all time – Steve (Pup) Shortland, Brett Helmer and Christian Dowling. Christian Dowling passed away about a year ago. She was the one that pretty much changed women’s softball.”

(Boys)

Teams

BIG SOUTH BASKETBALL STANDINGS

Conf. W-L

Crest 7-1

Kings Mountain 7-1

Hunter Huss 6-2

South Point 5-3

Stuart Cramer 3-5

Forestview 2-6

Ashbrook 1-7 North Gaston 1-7

Girls

Stuart Cramer 7-1

Ashbrook 7-1

Hunter Huss 6-2

Crest 4-4

Kings Mountain 2-6 Forestview 1-7 North Gaston 0-8

Kings Mountain Elite basketball game summaries

K-2 Beginners

Team Hustle 31, Team Try Hard 19

Team Hustle – Cali Boyce 6, Cameron Twitty 6, Sadie Bert 5, K.J. Moore 5, Joseph Bell III 5, Tiffany Evans 3, Antonio Shannon 2. Team Try Hard – Khamoni Marable 9, Cori Kirschemann 7, Liam Moore 1, Noah Lee 1, Kendrick Halvorson 1.

Elite Dawgs 29, Elite Takeoff 23

Dawgs – Timothy Tate 11, Karter Sandars 8, Gabriel Woods 5, Kameron Fortenberry 3, Kyler Holmes 2, Liam Pierce 1. Takeoff – Brayden Allen 10, Legend Carter 5, Caleb Ross 4, Khoen Brice 4.

3rd-4th grade division Elite Ballerz 25, The Yetis 11

Ballerz – Michael Rice 8, Zander Smith 7, Khyier Marable 6, Seth Tate 4.

Yetis – O’Brian Smith 6, Ellie Hollifield 3, Easton Pierce 2, Kayden McGill 2. Team Lockdown 16, Team Takeover 10 Lockdown – Kaliyah Allison 7, Jeremiah Plummer 5, Easton Pasour 4. Takeover – Dallas Hamrick Jr. 8, Kylen Owens 2. 5th-7th grade division Elite Kings 35, Elite Yellow Jackets 19

Kings – Carlos Boyce 26, Desmond Nolan 4, Jamarius Hill 3, Nehemiah Hogue 2. Jackets – Kingston Moore 10, Mills 4, Ashtun Hall 2, A.J. Fagan 2. Warriors Elite 18, UnderDogs 11

Elite – Harper Hollifield 14, Jaden Byrd 3, Xavier Epps 1. Dogs – Jasmine Twitty 3, Timahzje Phillips 3, Mason Powers 2, Skylar Garner 2, Espn Carpenter 1. 7th-9th division 704 Dream Team 28,

Week two Kings Mountain Elite

Trailblazers basketball results

K-2 Beginners:

Team Try Hard 24, Elite Takeoff 21.

Try Hard – Khamoni Marable 16, Channing Byers 4, Cori Kirschemann 1, Braylon Gist 1, Noah Lee 1, Korbin Moore 1. Takeoff – Caleb Ross 6, Khoen Brice 4, Amir Surratt 4, Legend Carter 4, K. White 1.

Elite Dawgs 20, Team Hustle 19.

Dawgs – Kameron Fortenberry 6, Gabriel Woods 5, Karter Sanders 4, Timothy Tate 3, Liam Pierce 1. Hustle – Sadie Bert 8, K.J. Moore 4, Cameron Twitty 4, Cali Boyce 3.

3rd-4th grade: Elite Ballerz 21, Team Lockdown 15 Ballerz – Michael Rice 8, Seth Tate 6, Zander Smith

5, C. Kirschemann 2. Lockdown – K. Allison 8, Jeremiah Plummer 4, Braylon Ellis 2, Dawson Harris 1. Yetis 10, Takeover 6 Yetis – Ellie Hollifield 6, O’Brain Smith 4. Takeover – Jasir Garner 4, Sienna Black 2. 5-7 Division Elite Kings 31, Elite Underdogs 22

Kings – Carolos Boyce 16, Elijah Long 8, Antonio Surratt Jr. 5, Jamarius Hill 2. Underdogs – Mason Powers 11, Jasmine Twitty 8, Brock Phillips 2, Timahzje Phillips 1.

Warriors 26, Yellow Jackets 7

Warriors – Harper Hollifield 9, Xavier Epps 6, Jaden Byrd 4, Wesley Barnes 3, Zoey Bert 2. Yellow Jackets – Keiston

Brooks 4, Ashtun Hall 3. 7-9 Middle WayUp Elite 35, Team Go Hard 27

Elite – Christian Hill 14, Silas Tate 12, Malachi Powell 8, Xavier Epps 1.

Go Hard – Xavier Hutchens 18, Carlos Boyce 8, Brayden Carroll 1.

Dream Team 38, Beastmode 33

Dream Team – Landon Hollifield 21, Cam Houser 13, Mason Powers 4. Beastmode – K.J. Bell 14, Jadarian Bull 12, Braylon Brown 3, Nehemiah Hogue 2, J. Bines 2.

Players of the Week

K-2 – Khamoni Marable 16 points; Kameron Fortenberry six points.

3rd-4th – Seth Tate 6, O’Brian Smith 4. 5th-7th – Mason Powers

11, Harper Hollifield 9.

7th-9th – Christian Hill 14, Landon Hollifield 21.

Standings

Lil Dribblers – Team Bell 2-0, Team Tate 1-1, Team Adams 0-2.

K-2 – Dawgs 2-0, Takeoff 1-1, TryHard 1-1, Hustle 0-2.

3-4 – Ballers 2-0, Yetis 2-0, Lockdown 0-2, Takeover 0-2.

5-7 – Kings 2-0, Underdogs 1-1, Warriors 1-1, Yellow Jackets 0-2.

7-9 – Wayup 2-0, Go Hard 1-1, Dream Team 1-1, Beastmode 0-2.

WayUp Elite 26 Dream – Tee Hollifield 10, Landon Hollifield 8, Mason Powers 3, Nate Kaiser 3, Cam Houser 2, Elijah Hall 2. Way Up – Silas Tate 14, Malachi Powell 5, Keja Baker 5, Xavier Epps 2. Beastmode 44, Go Hard 38

Beasdtmode – K.J. Bell 17, Braylon Brown 10, Christian Jarrett 7, Desmond Noland 6, Jadarian Bull 2. Go Hard – Xavier Hutchens 29, Samuel Bryson 7, Carlos Boyce 3.

Players of the Week: K-2 division – Timothy Tate 11, Cali Boyce 6. 3-4 division – Zander Smith 7, Kaliyah Allison 7. 5-7 division – Carlos Boyce 26, Harper Hollifield 14. 7-9 division – K.J. Bell 17, Xavier Hutchens 29.

DIVISION STANDINGS

Pre-K division: Team Bell Lil Dribblers 4-0, Team Tate Lil Dribblers 2-2, Team Adams Lil Dribblers 0-4.

K-2 division: Elite Dawgs 3-0, Elite Takeoff 1-2, Team TryHard 1-2, Team Hustle 1-2.

3-4 division: Elite Ballerz 3-0, Team Yetis 2-1, Team Lockdown 1-2, Team Takeover 0-3.

5-7 division: Elite Kings 3-0, Warriors Elite 2-1, Elite UnderDogs 12, Elite Yellow Jackets 0-3.

7-9 division: 704 Dream Team 2-1, WayUp Elite 2-1, Elite Beastmode 1-2, Team Go Hard 1-2.

KM YMCA winter basketball, week 3

Kings Mountain Family YMCA finished their second week of basketball games and posted the following scores:

January 16, 2023

13-15 Boys Division

No Limit 38 vs Spartans 32

No Limit – Aiden Smith 16 points

Spartans – William Bridges 11 points

Tarheels 23 vs Wizards 42

Tarheels – Zamari Currence 12 points

Wizards – Menki Pryor 15 points

January 20, 2023

11-12 Boys Division Duke 31 vs Wright 41

Duke – Eli Caldwell 13 points

Wright – Kymani Anderson 16 points

January 21, 2023

5-6 Co-Ed Division

Logan 12 vs Hornets 30

Logan – David Crowell 6 points

Hornets – Ryland Mills 6 points

Steelers 14 vs Campbell 26

Steelers – Parker Heinbach 8 points

Campbell – Alex Ellis 12 points

7-8 Boys Division

Panthers 6 vs Hornets 14

Panthers – Jalijah Clinton 6 points

Hornets – Jayden Lamb 4 points

Fireball 6 vs Campbell 28

Fireball – Asher Robinette 2 points

Campbell – Karter Watson 8 points

Bulldogs 15 vs Tigers 14

Bulldogs – Joshua Jackson 5 points

Tigers – Rylan Turner 4 points

7-9 Girls Division

Wildcats 23 vs Dover 17

Wildcats – Caroline Ruffalo 8 points

9-10 Boys Division

Aces 31 vs Roberts 11

Aces – Daniel Bullock 6 points

Roberts – Quan Rodriguez 2 points

Tarheels 12 vs Bulls 17

Tarheels – Michael Meeks 3 points

Bulls – Darrell Pardo 3 points

10-12 Girls Division

Underdogs 30 vs Ruby C Hunt 20

Underdogs – Jasmine Wilson 12 points

16-18 Boys Division

Kings 51 vs Dover 27

Kings – Sincere Lenair 12 points

Nuhrian Currence concentrates while attempting a free throw.

WEST SCHOOL STUDENTS NAMED TO STATE HONORS CHORUS – Alston Ladd, Kate Fulton, and Seth Tate were recognized at Cleveland County School Board’s January meeting for making State Honors Chorus. The students serenaded those in attendance with one song from the concert. Alston, Kate, and Seth received a certificate of achievement from Cleveland County Schools for being selected to sing in the State Honors Chorus. Photo provided

BETHWARE SCHOOL’S 4TH GRADE SPELLING BEE 2023 WINNERS – Pictured L-R: Shalee

Messer, runner up with Hayden Wray, the Spelling Bee winner. Photo provided

(Through Friday, Jan. 20)

KMMS

JANUARY

3 – at Shelby

5 – at Crest

9 – at North Lincoln

12 – Burns

18 – at West Lincoln

19 – at East Lincoln

23 – Lincolnton

26 – North Lincoln

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

30 – at Burns

FEBRUARY

2 – West Lincoln

6 – East Lincoln

9 – at Lincolnton

13 – Playoffs (TBA)

15 – Playoffs (TBA).

*All games begin at 5:15 p.m.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 19th day of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of TOMMY R. MANNING, 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, Kathy Hinds, Executrix, on or before the 25th of April, 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 25th day of January, 2023.

Kathy Hinds, Executrix

Estate of: Tommy R. Manning 14214 Roland Ct. Woodbridge, Va. 22193

KMH (1/25, 2/01, 2/08 & 2/15/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th day of December, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of JOY GARREN; AKA, JOY EVERHART GARREN, 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, Jacob Daniel Garren, Executor, on or before the 11th of April, 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 11th day of January, 2023

Jacob Daniel Garren, Executor Estate of: Joy Garren; aka, Joy Everhart Garren 163 Wellshire Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (1/11, 18, 25 & 2/01/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th of December, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of PENNY LEE STONE, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Grady T. Stone, Administrator on or before the 4th of April, 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 4th day of January, 2023.

Grady T. Stone, Administrator Estate of Penny Lee Stone 140 Phifer Cir Unit 2. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (1/04, 11, 18 & 25/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th day of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of HESTER LEE ROBERTS, 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, Gloria Denise Roberts, Executrix, on or before the 18th of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Gloria Denise Roberts, Executrix Estate of: Hester Lee Roberts 818 Surry Drive Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

Player Number

Christian Hill 10

Nazire Davis 23

Coryon Gaines 12

Silas Tate 11

Christian Jarrett 21

KJ Bell 31

Camren Houser 25

Joe Johnson 33

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th day of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of PAUL EUGENE WILSON, 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, Linda Ruth Hill, Executrix, on or before the 18th of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Linda Ruth Hill, Executrix Estate of: Paul Eugene Wilson 107 Royal Fern Lane Easley, SC 29642

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th day of January, 2023 as Co-Executrixes of the Estate of KAREN L. VINESETT; AKA; KAREN LAIL VINESETT, 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, Kyerstin Bridges, Co-Executrix and/ or Makenzi Vinesett, Co-Executrix, on or before the 18th of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Kyerstin Bridges, Co-Executrix Estate of: Karen L. Vinesett; aka, Karen Lail Vinesett 1658 Union Church Road Lawndale, NC 28090 And/or Makenzi Vinesett, Co-Executrix Estate of: Karen L. Vinesett; aka, Karen Lail Vinesett 705 Royster Avenue Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 3rd day of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of VIRGINIA PAYNE GOWER SELF, 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, Kimberly Hill, Executrix, on or before the 11th of April, 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 11th day of January, 2023.

Kimberly Hill, Executrix Estate of: Virginia Payne Gower Self 922 S Battleground Ave Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (1/11, 18, 25 & 2/01/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 11th of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of GEORGE LANGDON HATCH, 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 at Kimberly Spicer, P.A. at 214 North Morgan Street, Shelby, North Carolina, on or before the 18th day of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Helen Burnham Hatch, Executrix Counsel for the Estate KIMBERLY SPICER, P.A. 214 North Morgan Street Shelby, NC 28150 704-482-4358

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

MaL’achi Powell 40

Qua Ingram 35

Tristan McCorkle 30

Xavier Hutchens 22

Yates Toney 32

Braylon Brown 20

Coaches – Shane Cole, Maurice Tate.

Managers – Isabella Cole, Nasir Epps, Marquise Thomas.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 29th day of December, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of DENNIS C. STAMEY; AKA, DENNIS STAMEY; AKA, DENNIS CLARENCE STAMEY, 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, Shirley G. Stamey, Executrix, on or before the 4th of April, 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 4th day of January, 2023.

Shirley G. Stamey, Executrix

Estate of: Dennis C. Stamey; aka, Dennis Stamey; aka, Dennis Clarence Stamey 2138 Deal Road Cherryville, NC 28021

KMH (1/04, 11, 18 & 25//2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th of January, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of JANE D. COPENHAVER, 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, Theron Cris Bailey, Administrator on or before the 18th of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Theron Cris Bailey, Administrator Estate of Jane D. Copenhaver 1150 Old US 221 S. Marion, NC 28752

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 5th of January, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of ESTHER LAURA ANN WEBBER, 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, Doris Miller, Administratrix on or before the 11th of April, 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 11st day of January, 2023.

Tanya Denise Webber, Administratrix Estate of Esther Laura Ann Webber 903 Moses Ct Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (1/11, 18, 25 & 2/01/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th of January, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of JANET LYNN SPANGLER ECKARD, 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, Michael Spangler Eckard, Administrator on or before the 18th of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Michael Spangler Eckard, Administrator Estate of Janet Lynn Spangler Eckard 143 Ole Farm Place Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

KM Middle suffers first loss, North Lincoln here Thursday

Kings Mountain Middle School’s boys basketball team suffered its first loss in the division last week to a tough East Lincoln team, 43-37 in overtime.

The Patriots were scheduled to play Lincolnton Monday and will host North Lincoln Thursday.

The score went back and forth in last week’s game

before KM’s Silas Tate and KJ Bell hit a pair of threes and Xavier Hutchens chipped in with six points as KM took a 14-10 lead heading into the second quarter.

Bell made two more threes as he scored 10 of his game-high 16 points to help the Patriots to a 28-17 lead at halftime.

The second half saw

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th day of January, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of CARL OWEN MCWHIRTER, SR., 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, Charles Alan McWhirter, Executor, on or before the 25th of April, 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 25th day of January, 2023

Charles Alan McWhirter, Executor Estate of: Carl Owen McWhirter, Sr. 115 Aaron Drive Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (1/25, 2/01, 08 & 15/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE OF NUNCUPATIVE WILL PROBATE BY PUBLICATION

In the Superior Court of Cleveland County Take notice that the nuncupative will of Samuel Arthur Smith is to be submitted for probate in the Superior Court of Cleveland County, North Carolina. This notice is to inform any next of kin or unknown heirs of the Estate of Samuel Arthur Smith, that they have the right to oppose the probate of the nuncupative will of Samuel Arthur Smith.

This the 4th day of January, 2023. 233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150 Counsel for the estate: McIntyre Elder Law

KMH (1/04, 11, 18 & 25/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 3rd of January, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of RONALD GLENN CLAY; AKA, RONALD G. CLAY, 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 at McIntyre Law Firm in Shelby, North Carolina, on or before the 18th day of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023.

Chella Annette Hamrick; aka, Chella Clay Hamrick, Executrix Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW PO Box 165 Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01 & 08/2023)

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: DAVID BRIAN HERNDON, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 22nd day of December, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of DAVID BRIAN HERNDON, deceased, late of Fairfield County, South 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 6th day of April, 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 4th day of January, 2023 Warren R. Herndon, Jr., Ex. 245 Mooring Lane Lexington, SC 29072

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KM (1/4, 1/11, 1/18, & 1/25/2023)

Hutchens, Bell and Nazire Davis combine for seven points to give the Patriots a 35-28 lead. In the fourth period, KM couldn’t buy a shot and went scoreless as regulation ended in a 35-all tie.

During the overtime period, both teams didn’t score for two minutes but East scored on a fast break layup to break the tie and go on to win.

Bell led the Patriots with 16 points. Tate had nine, Hutchens eight, Davis two

PATRIOTS

From Page 3B

Johnson finished off the Patriots’ scoring by adding three points apiece to account for the final margin.

Hill finished with 11 points and Hutchens nine to lead the scoring. Jarrett

and Christian Jarrett two.

Offensive players of the week were Christian Hill and KJ Bell who combined for 30 points and five three pointers in two games.

Defensive players of the week were Davis and Jarrett.

Sixth man of the week was Tristian McCorkle who had several steals and Qua Ingram who scored six points off the bench.

KM carried a 3-1 East Division and 4-2 overall record into this week’s games.

scored eight, Ingram six, Houser five, Powell four, Silas Tate four, Joe Johnson three, KJ Bell three, Coryon Gaines three and Nazire Davis, Braylon Brown and Yates Toney two each.

The win left KM with a 3-0 division record and 4-1 overall mark heading into a Thursday game at East Lincoln.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 14th day of November, 2022 as Administrator CTA of the Estate of LOUISE ELIZABETH GRIGG; AKA, LOUISE EAKER GRIGG, 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 CTA, on or before the 25th of April, 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 25th day of January, 2023.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator CTA Estate of: Louise Elizabeth Grigg, aka, Louise Eaker Grigg

McINTYRE ELDER LAW 233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (1/25, 2/01, 2/08, 2/15/2023)

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: SCOTT D. BLACKWOOD aka SCOTT DEWAYNE BLACKWOOD, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 11th day of January, 2023 as Co-Executrices of the Estate of Scott D. Blackwood aka Scott Dewayne Blackwood, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Co-Executrices on or before the 20th day of April, 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 18th day of January, 2023

Catherine Marie Tate, Co-Ex. 600 Landing Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Samantha Jeanne Tate, Co-Ex. 407 Palm Frond Drive Myrtle Beach, SC 29588

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KM (1/18 & 1/25, 2/1 & 2/8/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 18th of January, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of FANNIE MAE HAMRICK SMITH, 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, Dennis Lee Smith, Administrator on or before the 25th of April, 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 day 25th of January, 2023.

Dennis Lee Smith, Administrator Estate of Fannie Mae Hamrick Smith 3008 Acer Place Apt 108 Charlotte, NC 28216

KMH (1/25, 2/01, 08 & 15/2023)

tratrix of the Estate of John Gregory Fink (23 E 50), 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 April 26, 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 25th day of January, 2023.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of John Gregory Fink Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (1/25, 2/01, 08 &15/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on 22nd of December, 2022 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Chris Duane Ellis (22 E 1069), 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 Phillip Ellis, Co-Administrator and David Ellis, Co-Administrator, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before April 12th, 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 11th day of January, 2023.

Phillip Ellis and David Ellis Co-Administrators of the Estate of Chris Duane Ellis c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (1/11, 18, 25, 2/01/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF MECKLENBURG IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CVD-17365 (CTM)

RACHEL ROFF, Plaintiff, vs. DONYELL MCCLUNEY, Defendant.

TO: DONYELL MCCLUNEY

TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Plaintiff has filed a Complaint seeking child custody of Alexandra Rose Roff, born, February 21, 2021, child support, and attorney’s fees.

YOU ARE REQUIRED TO MAKE DEFENSE TO SUCH PLEADING NOT LATER THAN February 27, 2023, which is forty (40) days from the first publication of this notice (said date being January 18, 2023). Upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This the 18th day of January, 2023.

Tamela T. Wallace Attorney for Plaintiff The Law Office of Tamela T. Wallace, P.A. 301 South McDowell Street, Suite 406 Charlotte, North Carolina 28204 Telephone: (704) 371-4212

KMH (1/18, 25, 2/01/2023)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ROOK TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER for Cleveland-Rutherford Kidney Association at New Home Methodist Church located at 544 Moriah School Rd., Casar, NC. Saturday, January 28th, 2023 at 12 noon. Cost is $25 per team of two. Lunch will be served. Please call 704-481-9535 to register or for more information.

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

MECHANIC WORK. We do Mechanic Work. Foreign and Domestic. Diagnostic fee, $50. Call 704-481-7502

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

CONCRETE SPECIALTIES. Driveways, patios, slabs, sidewalks, Bobcat work. Kelvin Carter 864-590-8054.

FOR SALE

INNOVA LONGARM 26” ON 12’ TABLE Innova Longarm 26” with 12’ table and Pantovision. (828) 403-8667 suzy981flute@gmail.com

LENOVO YOGA TOUCHSCREEN LAPTOP. $650. Runs Windows 11. Has only been used a few times. (704) 487-6771

GLASS DISPLAY CABINET $150. I have two glass display cabinets. Can send picture by phone (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

OLD AUTO PARTS CABINETS $100. I have several different cabinets and display racks, Can send pictures by phone (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

WIDE ELECTRIC CHAIR. Like new. 13,000 watt generator, new, runs on gas and propane, electric start. 828-748-2411.

FOR SALE

MORGAN’S

MONITOR HEATER WITH TANK & STAND $700 OBO. Feed barrels $20, Solid top plastic & metal barrels $10, Totes $75, Burn barrels $15, Metal cages $25. Call Jeff in Hickory before 6pm (828) 3274782

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

704-297-0103

EMPLOYMENT

PART TIME MUSICAL WORSHIP LEADER. We are looking for a part time Worship Leader to lead our congregation in Sunday morning musical worship. A complete description can be obtained from our church office by calling 704-4346771. Please send resume to SRBC, PO Box 297, Mooresboro, NC 28114. (704) 434-6771 sandyrunoffice@gmail.com

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

POSITION AVAILABLE FOR LEAD PERSON for Commercial Landscaping Company located in Kings Mountain, NC. Must be Mature & Seasoned. A valid drivers license is required and have experience hauling trailer and equipment. Travel is required every day with early mornings and some late afternoons, especially in spring and summer months. There are no overnight stays. This position will start immediately. Only serious inquiries need apply. Please send email with resume to zerobugs@bellsouth.net or leave a voicemail at 704-7345370 and your call will be returned.

EXPERIENCED AUTOMO-

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION, site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, pruning, planting, excavator work. 828-453-8113.

AUCTIONS

OLD GAMBLING MACHINE $150. Would make a good man cave piece. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

DRY OAK FIREWOOD. You haul. $50 per load. Upper Cleveland County. (704) 4722022

1999 DODGE 1500. $800. I have ‘99 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine. Does not run, Parts only. (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

2003 CEDAR CREEK 5TH WHEEL CAMPER FOR SALE. 29 foot on lot at Cool Breeze Campground at Maggie Valley, NC. Lot is paid till May 1st. $8,500 or best offer. Call: 704466-4076. If no answer, please leave message.

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

GREAT FOR GIFTS OR COLLECTING SILVER, GOLD & COINS! SILVER Bars & Rounds 1Oz., 5 Oz.,10 Oz., 32 Oz., 50 Oz.. and 2022 Silver Eagles. GOLD 1 Gram, 2.5 Grams, 5 Grams, 10 Grams, 1/10 Oz., 1/4 Oz., 1/2 Oz. & 1 Oz. “We Buy, Sell & Trade”! Jake’s Knives Coins, Collectibles & Antiques located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

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

FOR SALE

2022 ENVY NEIGHBORHOOD CART. Road ready, blinkers, brake lights, headlights, horn, power steering, must sell. $9500. 828-980-1187, for pictures/details.

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

NEW CAR SHED FOR THE NEW YEAR! Single Car $288 Down from $89 month. Double $395 Down from $123.45 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

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.

NEW 6X12 TRAILER “RENT TO OWN” No Credit Check! $582 Down-$161 per month. Includes Tax & Title Fee. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

7 TON GOOSENECK 25 FOOT. Lay Flat Ramp “All Rubber Seal Lights” Tool Box & More! $12,900 OR No Credit Check Rent to Own. From $639 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

BOAT & RV COVERS-WE INSTALL. 14 on Site that you can look at and touch! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

WANT TO BUY

WE BUY Cars, Trucks, Vans. Running or not. Lost titles or have titles. We take over payments. 704-524-3387.

BUYING COMICS & VINYL RECORDS. Looking for 1950s-80s Comics in any condition. I want to buy your comics that are sitting and collecting dust and taking up room as well as old Rock and Roll records. Cleveland and Gaston County, Kings Mountain, Shelby and Charlotte areas. Call Tim 661-312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@ live.com

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

KNITTING MACHINE FOR SALE. Can manufacture the following products and more. Compression tube socks, compression products for arms, legs and wrist where ever pain exist. Beanie caps, Scarfs, Toboggans, Banners, small flags, stockings, leg warmers, mittens, Knit cuffs for garments. Logo’s can be put on all products for your organization. You manufacture the products or we can do it for you. Contact: Jimmie, 704-750-6102

SEASONED SMALL STOVE WOOD. Cut, split and delivered. All seasoned or mixed with green oak. $75. 828-395-0758.

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

FIREWOOD. Seasoned 95% Oak, 1/4 cord load - $70, $85 - delivered. Bundles - $5 each. 704-435-3970 or 704-4583081.

CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704692-6767, (704) 487-0228

I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197

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

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

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

TROY-BILT 42 INCH MUSTANG zero turn mower. Two years old. Serviced yearly. Like new. $1500. 828-395-0043.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

ADULT QUAIL $5 EACH. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Pre order Bob Whites. Hatching Eggs. Laying Hens Available.

LABRADOODLE F1B PUPS. Beautiful black Labradoodle pups available January 20th. First puppy shots. (704) 6926713 paintedshilohfarm@yahoo. com

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 532-1587

NEW RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING SERVICES are now available. Badger Plumbing is now open to service you at reasonable rates. Call 704-524-3387.

(704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or

SHOPRIDER STREAMER. Shoprider Streamer, used several years 250 lb wt limit, delivered, charger, tech warranty. Scooterman John. $475.00 (704) 951-4224 mobilityservices07@gmail.com

FIREWOOD SERVICE. Green oak. Cut, split and delivered. $75. thrown off. $85. stacked off. 828-395-0758

big healthy pups that will respond to training well and make good family protectors. $300 ea. (704) 466-3135

LABRADOODLE PUPS. F1B Beautiful cream, black or black/white standard size Labradoodles. Call or text 704-974-6790. Parents shown in pics. (704) 974-6790 susan.mccraw55@gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

& LIVESTOCK

PETS & LIVESTOCK

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FULL BLOODED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. No papers. Parents on site. Black and tan. Ready for pick-up 1-21-23. Call 828-748-9614 or 828-4608187.

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. $250$500. 4 males, 1 female. Call or text for info. (704) 418-9244

3 BOER BILLY GOATS. 8 months old. $175. each or all for $450. 828-980-5067.

REGISTERED GOLDEN LABS $800. 8 weeks old, wormed & shots. Ready for forever home. 4 females, 3 males, vet checked and very healthy. Call or text Kathy (864) 838-4467

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

DOG KENNELS 5X10, 10X10, 10X20. Dog Houses, Tops for Kennels. “Delivery & Setup Available” J Johnson Sales 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

BOSTON TERRIER PUPS FOR SALE. CKC, 6 weeks old, shots and worming up-to-date. Parents on site. $700. 803-222-6730.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. 6 males. 6 weeks old, UTD shots & dewormed. Text for more pics and information (407) 921-2012 samarabuelna@gmail.com

GREAT DANES NEED HOME. 2 beautiful loving Great Danes that need a loving home. 1 yr. 3 months old. Family dynamics have changed here and we can no longer give them the love and attention they deserve. Free to loving caregiver. (828) 297-9757 debbie.shehan21@ gmail.com

BEAUTIFUL HYPO-ALLERGENIC CAVACHON

paburkhart@gmail.com

AKC STANDARD POODLE

Born 9/20/2022, fully AKC registrable. Apricot 6 males and 1 female available. Vet checked and shots UTD. Raised in home with Dam & Sire. Very smart, alert loving pups. Ready for their forever home. $1200 (252) 670-2659 Merceraudrey@yahoo.com

AKC FEMALE MINIATURE SCHNAUZER PUPPY for sale. Beautiful markings. Salt and Pepper. Vet checked and has first shots. $900. 704-9150004.

AKC/CKC REGISTERED BOXER PUPPIES. Taking $200 deposits now. Total price $900. Ready 2nd week of Feb. 3 males, 4 females. (704) 4773900

8 WEEK OLD CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. One Staffordshire male puppy, 12 weeks old. $350 each. Call or text 704-974-8055 or 704-466-6983.

ER@MSN.COM

CKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES $600. I have 9 beautiful CKC German Shepherd puppies that will be ready for a new family on 1/26/23. They were born 11/28/22. They have all been checked and dewormed by a Veterinarian. First shots scheduled along with another checkup at the Veterinarian as well. Registration papers included. Dame and sire are on site. The dame is 75 lbs and Sable. The sire is 110 lbs and traditional black and brown. They have been handled and socialized since birth. Please call or text for more information and pictures. (828) 305-1014

CANE CORSO PUPPIES FOR SALE. I HAVE NINE PUPPIES: I C C F CERTIFIED, TAILS CROPPED, DEW CLAWS ARE REMOVED. A PUPPY WOULD BE A GREAT ADDITION TO YOUR FAMILY. CALL TO RESERVE YOUR PUP

CARS & TRUCKS

1996 FORD ECONOLINE CARGO VAN $2400.00 firm. Call for information Monday through Friday 9am-3pm. 828-919-0688.

2009 TOYOTA TACOMA 380,000 miles. $7500.00, all highway miles, excellent condition inside and out. New tires, battery, alternator. All maintenance documented. Toolbox included. (704) 6340553 bkingery@carolina. rr.com

2013 JEEP PATRIOT 112,609 miles, Call for Price, (704) 7481890 sales@ctcautosports. com

CAMPERS

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

CLUB CAR DS. Club Car DS great condition, runs and drives perfect. New engine and brakes last month Comes with charger and cover. $3,000 obo (941) 773-0941 brinton.mcclellan@ gmail.com

2003 HARLEY DAVIDSON FXDL. Excellent condition, garage kept. $5800 (704) 477-0396

VACATIONS

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

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803718-2659.

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

WANT TO RENT

OLDER MATURE MALE LOOKING for a place to rent. 1 or 2 bedroom, Forest City. Prefer outside city limits. 828-755-6927.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

NO HEAT BILLS HERE. 1 BR Apt., second floor, Excellent location. No Smoking or Pets. Not HAP eligilble. Heat & water furnished. $575/mth. 704-4875480.

COUNTRY LIVING, POLKVILLE. 2 bedroom farmhouse. 2 acres, central heat/air. No Smoking or Pets. Not HAP eligible! $600. (704) 487-5480

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT. In Shelby, NC. 1 to 3 bedrooms renting from $525.00 to $825.00 per month. Call Today. 704-5548861. frontdesk@kluttspropertymanagement.com 135-9 WIGGINS LANE. Kings Mtn, NC. Singlewide, 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Rent $1350, Deposit $1350, application fee $25. 704214-4180

By JIM MILLER Editor

1624-2 S POST ROAD Shelby, NC. 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Rent $1100, Deposit $1100, Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 4734299

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

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby NC or call for more information 704-487-1114.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

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, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704739-0259.

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $550 per month. 828-382-0475.

The Best Reacher Grabber Tools of 2023

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good reacher-grabber tools for seniors with back or hip problems who need help picking things up off the ground? I bought a cheap one a few months ago that doesn’t work very well but would like to find one that does.

Bad Back Betty

Dear Betty, A good “reacher-grabber” is a very practical and popular tool for anyone who struggles with injuries, arthritis or loss of mobility. It works like an extension of your arm allowing you to reach down and pick things up off the ground without bending or stooping over. It can also help with reaching and grabbing things in high overhead places, as well as areas that are difficult to get to.

But with so many different types of reacher-grabbers on the market today, finding a good one that works well for you is not always easy. Depending on your needs,

here are some top-rated products to consider.

All-purpose: For retrieving small and medium-sized items, the “Ettore Grip’n Grab,” is a top option that can handle most chores. This 34-inch-long tool has a soft comfortable trigger handgrip and a rubberized jaw that’s strong enough to lift objects up to 5 pounds and up to 4 inches wide, yet sensitive enough to pick up something as small as a dime. The jaw also rotates and locks at 90 degrees for vertical or horizontal use to help you reach things in awkward spaces.

Lightweight: If you want a reacher primarily for retrieving small lightweight items around the house, the “RMS Featherweight the Original Reacher” is a top pick. Available in 32 and 26-inch lengths, it’s made from ultra-lightweight aluminum and has a trigger-style handgrip with a serrated jaw that provides a secure grip when lifting objects.

It also has a magnet built into the tip for picking up lightweight met-

al objects like a paperclip, and a small hook (or horn) that aids in retrieving things like clothes, shoes or keys. It even has a built-in clip on the arm so you can attach it to canes, walkers and wheelchairs. But, because of its super-lightweight design, it doesn’t work well at retrieving heaver items like canned goods from shelves.

Foldable: For easier storage, the top selling folding grabber is the “Zayad Reacher Grabber Tool,” which is 32-inches long and has a slip-joint in the arm that allows it to easily fold in half. It also has a soft ergonomic grip with a rubberized, rotating jaw that can lift objects up to three pounds and up to 4 inches wide.

Heavy-duty: For heaver-lifting jobs or for outdoor use, the “Unger Nifty Nabber” is a top choice. Available in 36 and 48-inch lengths, this sturdy tool has a rubber-coated heavy-duty claw that grips small, large, and odd-shaped items with ease. It also has a built-in magnet

for picking up small metal objects, an ergonomic squeeze-grip handle and can lift 8 pounds.

Where to Buy

You can buy reacher-grabbers at many pharmacies, retail, medical equipment and home improvement stores. But, because it’s a specialty item, the selection is very limited. Your best bet is to buy one online at Amazon.com, which sells all of the top reacher-grabbers at prices ranging from around $10 to $20. Just type the product name in the search bar to find it.

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.

PETS

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

DATE TRACK TV TIME

Feb. 5 Clash (L.A. Memorial Coliseum) FOX 8:00

Feb. 16 Duel at Daytona FS1 7:00

Feb. 19 Daytona 500 FOX 2:30 ______

Feb. 26 Auto Club Speedway, Cal. FOX 3:30 ______

Mar. 5 Las Vegas Motor Speedway FOX 3:30 ______

Mar. 12 Phoenix Raceway FOX 3:30 ______

Mar. 19 Atlanta Motor Speedway FOX 3:00 ______

Mar. 26 Circuit of the Americas, TX FOX 3:30 ______

April 2 Richmond Raceway FS1 3:30 ______

April 9 Bristol Speedway (DIRT) FOX 7:30 ______

April 16 Martinsville Speedway FS1 3:00 ______

April 23 Talladega Superspeedway FOX 3:00 ______

April 30 Dover International Speedway FS1 2:00

May 7 Kansas Speedway FS1 3:00 ______

May 14 Darlington Raceway FS1 3:00 ______

May 21 N. Wilksboro - All-Star Race FS1 8:00 ______

May 28 Charlotte Motor Speedway FOX 6:00 ______

June 4 World Wide Tech Raceway FS1 3:30 ______

June 11 Sonoma Raceway FOX 3:30 ______

June 25 Nashville Superspeedway NBC 7:00 ______

July 2 Chicago Street Race NBC 5:30 ______

July 9 Atlanta Motor Speedway USA 7:00 ______

July 16 New Hampshire Speedway USA 2:30 ______

July 23 Pocono Raceway USA 2:30 ______

July 30 Richmond Raceway USA 3:00 ______

Aug. 6 Michigan Int. Speedway USA 2:30 ______

Aug. 13 Indianapolis (Road Course) NBC 2:30 ______

Aug. 20 Watkins Glen International USA 3:00 ______

Aug. 26 Daytona Int. Speedway NBC 7:00 ______

Sept. 3 *Darlington Raceway USA 6:00 ______ Sept. 10 *Kansas Speedway USA 3:00 ______

Sept. 16 *Bristol Motor Speedway USA 7:30 ______ Sept. 24 *Texas Motor Speedway USA 3:30 ______ Oct. 1

*Talladega Superspeedway NBC 2:00 ______

*Charlotte Speedway (ROVAL) NBC 2:00 ______ Oct. 15 *Las Vegas Motor Speedway NBC 2:30 ______ Oct. 22 *Homestead-Miami Speedway NBC 2:30 ______

Oct. 8

Oct. 29

*Martinsville Speedway NBC 2:00 ______ Nov. 5 *Phoenix Raceway NBC 3:00 ______ * Denotes Playoff Race (Dates and Times Subject to Change)