KMMS basketball beats East Lincoln

The Kings Mountain boys basketball team took on the Falcons from East Lincoln. Kings Mountain played its best game from start to finish, jumping out to a quick 11 to 4 lead after one quarter. Chrisitan Hill gave the Pats the lead at 3 to 0, as he hit the first of two threes from the left corner. Silas Tate chipped in with six during the period. The second quarter saw KM grow a little cold from the field. Tate and Xavier Huthens rounded out the scoring for a Patirots 16 to 9 lead at the half.

KM's smothering defense led by Nazire Davis and KJ Bell, continued in the third period holding East to just 2 points, to extend

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

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:

MARK DONALD CAMPBELL, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 20th day of January, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of MARK DONALD CAMPBELL, 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 Administratrix on or before the 4th day of May, 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 1st day of February, 2023

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr, Admin. CTA CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KM (2/1, 8, 15, & 2/22/2023)

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:

JOHN CHRISTOPHER WILLETT, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 24th day of January, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of JOHN CHRISTOPHER WILLETT, 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 Administratrix on or before the 4th day of May, 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 1st day of February, 2023

Burice Willett, Admin.

3618 George Beam Road

Shelby, NC 28150

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KM (2/1, 8, 15, & 2/22/2023) their lead to 29 to 11. As Hutchens and Tate kept the offensive pace up, the duo combined for 12 of the Pats' 13 points. The period was led by Malachi Powell and Hill's 5 points to finish off the visiting team 38 to 19.

KM was led by:

Silas Tatee 17 points, Xavier Huthcens 8 points, Christian Hill 6 points, Na- zire Davis 4 points, Malachi Powell 2 points, and Christian Jarrett 1 point. KMs' defense was tremendous limiting the EL's starters to just 5 points (only one field goal).

KM hit a season-high 6 three-pointers

KM is 8 and 3 overall and 7 and 2 in East Division, currently the 2nd seed.

Legal Notice

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 10th of January, 2023 as Administratix of the Estate of SARALYN ELAINE DAVES, 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 Elder Law in Shelby, North Carolina, on or before the 1st day of May, 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 1st day of February, 2023.

Melissa Daves Ware, Administratix Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

PO Box 165 Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (2/01, 08, 15 & 22/2023)

Legal Notice

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of January, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of JOHN R. HARTMAN, 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 Elder Law in Shelby, North Carolina, on or before the 1st day of May, 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 1st day of February, 2023.

Christopher Hartman, Executor

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW PO Box 165 Shelby, NC 28151

KMH (2/01, 08, 15 & 22/2023)

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 12th of January, 2023 as Administratrix 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

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)

KM closes out the regular season on the road against Lincolnton middle school on Thursday.

The Patriots clinched a spot in next week's playoffs for the fourth year in a row and 7 out of the last 8 years.

Legal Notice

Notice to Creditors

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of William Michael Moran, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to hand deliver or mail them to the Clerk of Court for Cleveland County, North Carolina, 100 Justice Place, P.O. Box 1210, Shelby, NC 28150; A copy of the claim must be mailed to the undersigned c/o Robert T. Sawyer, II, Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, 117 East Main Avenue, Gastonia, North Carolina 28052, on or before the 12th day of May, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 8th day of February, 2023.

Sarah Warfield 4920 Kemp Road

Reisterstown, MD 21136

Executrix of Estate of William Michael Moran, Deceased.

Send Mail: c/o Robert T. Sawyer, II

Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC

117 East Main Avenue

Gastonia, NC 28052

Cleveland County Estate File --- 23-E-90

KMH (2/08, 15, 22 & 3/01/2023)

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX CTA

Having qualified on 20th of January 2023 as Administratrix CTA of the Estate of Thomas Floyd Wright (17 E 762), 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 CTA, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before May 10, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned. This the 8th day of February, 2023.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix CTA of the Estate of Thomas Floyd Wright Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (2/8, 15, & 3/1/2023)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The public will take notice that the City Council of the City of Kings Mountain has called a public hearing regarding an application for rezoning.

Luke Judd, Applicant/Owner has requested an amendment to the Zoning Map of the City of Kings Mountain regarding the following:

Rezone approximately 42.89 acres, identified as Cleveland County Parcels 64023, 10910 and 64022 located on the south side of Dillon Road and southwest of the intersection with Patterson Road. The petitioner would like the property to be rezoned from Suburban Residential (SR) to Rural (RU). Case Z-22-25

The public hearing will be held at City Hall, 101 W. Gold Street, Kings Mountain, North Carolina on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Opportunity for public input will be offered during the public hearing portion of the meeting. A copy of the application may be obtained by contacting the City of Kings Mountain Community Planning Department at 704-734-4595.

KMH (2/8 & 2/15/2023)

KINGS MOUNTAIN BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Tuesday February 21st, 2023 5:30pm

Notice is hereby given that the Kings Mountain Board of Adjustment will hold a Public Meeting and Public Hearing on Tuesday February 21, 2023 at 5:30 pm at CITY HALL in the City Council Chambers, located at 101 W Gold St Kings Mountain, NC. The meeting will hear the following case:

CASE NO. SU-23-1 Request by Julie Ratcliffe for a Special Use Permit on Gaston County Parcel 153201 located at 130 Grand View Drive.

The meeting will be open to the public for those wishing to attend.

You are receiving this letter because you own property adjacent to, or in close proximity of, the subject property located at 130 Grand View Drive.

For further information please call the Planning and Zoning office at 704-734-4595.

KMH (2/8/2023)

KMH (2/15/2023) do odd jobs ($10hr). Must be able to pass criminal background check. 828-429-3075 or 828-429-

0800.

PART TIME FARM WORK. Paint fences, trim trees, barn work, weed eating, in Summer. Must have own transportation, be responsible. 828-289-4901.

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

ONE ON ONE CARE. Is hiring for Direct Support Professional/

DSP for full/part time on 2nd shift. Transport experience recommended not required. Apply in person at 203 Lee St, Shelby NC

SALVATION ARMY STORE has positions available in our Shelby Family Store. We need Store Clerks, a Truck Driver, and a Truck Helper. Backgrounds are required for all positions and a clean driving record for the Driver position. Please apply in person at 310 W. Dixon Blvd, Shelby, NC 28150.

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 704-434-6771. Please send resume to SRBC, PO Box 297, Mooresboro, NC 28114. (704) 434-6771 sandyrunoffice@gmail.com

NOW HIRING LANDSCAP-

ERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

RETIRED ELEMENTARY TU-

TOR. Accepting students for help in Reading and/or Math. $13 hr. Call Kathy, (704) 6927250

Business Services

HOME REPAIRS & PAINTING. Veteran offering home

For Sale

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 ARROWHEADS. Large selection of arrowheads. Take some or all. Price depends on the amount you buy. (573) 5445806, Polkville.

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 with Legacy assurance membership it will lock in the price of a casket; headstone, vault for $4,000 or urn as $99. Don’t leave your family with a burden. Call your local rep (NC/SC) today Shelia Warthen 704-284-1106 (704) 284-1106 SReneeWarthen60@icloud.com

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

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

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICE. Paint Kitchen Cabinets only. Pre-estimated price. References available. 828-4297511 or 828-429-3743. Ask for James.

HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE

AGENTS, need a little work?

Jackson Corbin Property Services, LLC. Specializing in small jobs/punch list. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, tile, etc. Need a hand for a day or two? Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

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

For Sale

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. 55 gallon drum $65 in your drum. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve:

For Sale

WHIRLPOOL CABRIO DRYER $150. Call 704-477-4621. Leave message/text.

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

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

1999 DODGE 1500. $800. I have ‘99 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine. Does not run, Parts only. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

KENMORE DRYER FOR SALE. In good condition. $50. (704) 484-3128

SHIPPING CRATE $35.00. I have wood shipping crates for sale with lids. I can send pictures of them. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

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

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

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

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

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 538-5788 GUNS FOR SALE. 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, 38, 45/410 Taurus. Call for appointment to see. 828-289-8255.

$12 pint. Produced in Rutherford County. Comb honey $24 quart. Call/text Jackson Corbin 828-980-1823.

WINSTON CIGARETTES ELECTRIC CLOCK $500. Call or email: (704) 300-1818 kim_ hopper@bellsouth.net

WOW! 2021 LOAD TRAIL GOOSENECK 10 Ton Trailer. 40Ft. Long with Mega Ramps. ONLY 1 at this price! $21,000, or $950 Down / $1040 Month. No Credit Check! Daily Cash Specials! Give use call at J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

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

CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PARK. For Sale, 4 plots beside walkway near fountain. $3333. We screen calls. Leave message and we will get back to you. (704) 472-4151

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

WANT TO BUY

BUYING OLD VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS. Looking to buy your old Nintendo, Sega, Dreamcast and Gameboy games and systems call or text me if your in the Cleveland and Gaston County, Kings Mountain, Shelby and Charlotte areas. Call Tim 661-312-6159 (661) 3126159 saveyourearth@live. com

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

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

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. CKC Registered, shots & worming UTD. These are big healthy pups that will respond to training well and make good family protectors. $300 ea. (704) 466-3135 TOY AND MINI

Male and female, assorted colors, some blue-eyed. Shots, wormed, fully vetted. 828-289-6756.

OLD CHIHUAHUA

$350. Pit bull puppies, 6 weeks old. $450 each. Call or text 704-974-8055 or 704-4666983.

USED & NEW MOBILITY

CHAIRS from $475 to $750, 7 different units Call Scooterman John (704) 951-4224 mobilityservices07@gmail.com

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

TREE, BRUSH AND DEBRIS

REMOVAL. Also land clearing, dump truck service, driveways and gravel hauling. 828-2890742.

NEW RESIDENTIAL PLUMB-

ING SERVICES are now available. Badger Plumbing is now open to service you at reasonable rates. Call 704524-3387.

RETAINING WALLS, PAV-

ERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION, site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, pruning, planting, excavator work. 828453-8113.

BLANTON’S TREE SERVICE LLC. TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL SERVICES, STORM CLEANUP, LANDSCAPING AND SMALL GRADING JOBS FULLY INSURED. CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE TODAY! (704) 692-4203

YARD SALES

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

INDOOR YARD SALE Every Saturday, 9AM-2PM. Pampas-grass, toys, clothes, kitchen items, more. 1237 Piney Ridge Road, Forest City. Forest City, NC 28043

ANTIQUES

UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Tues.-Sat. 11am-4pm. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on FB. 828-3820075.

For Sale

KITCHEN APPLIANCES FOR SALE. Newer Frigidaire top freezer refrigerator $250.

GE self-cleaning stove $150.

Panasonic turntable microwave oven only $30 OBO. All were removed from rental property so they are working good. Call 704-747-9076 or 704-739-7027 and make an offer. (704) 7479076 smileydl@bellsouth.net

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

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

LAND WANTED, 10+ ACRES. In Blacksburg, SC. To build small home. Call (704) 576-7022 WE BUY Cars, Trucks, Vans. Running or not. Lost titles or have titles. We take over payments. 704-524-3387.

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

3 MUSCOVY DUCKSROOSTERS. Will trade for hens. 3 Dominique Roosters for sale. (704) 466-8741

How Social Security recipients stay alert to cost of living adjustment scams

Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves a cost-ofliving adjustment (COLA) for recipients of Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Due to inflation, payments can increase by 8.7% this year. It’s a significant increase – the highest COLA approved in more than 40 years – and scammers are taking advantage.

If you or a loved one receive Social Security benefits, stay alert to the signs of a scam.

How the scam works: Scammers contact you by phone, text or email. This “Social Security Administration representative” claims you must apply for your cost-of-living increase. They might ask you to visit a website, send information via text or email, or speak with them on the phone to get the benefit. The scammer will ask you to verify your identity by sharing personal details, such as your full name, address or Social Security number. They may even ask for your bank account information, claiming that the representative will deposit the extra money directly into your account.

In any case, if you give your information to the person in question, they will have gained access to your most sensitive personal information, making you susceptible to identity theft. If you give up your

GWU Hoopscoming and Legacy and Legends Basketball Events Featured on Feb. 11 and 18

Programs Include Recognition of 1963 Men’s Conference Winners and Title IX Celebration banking information, they may even be able to gain access to your money.

How to avoid Social Security scams:

• Remember, the SSA’s COLA is automatic. You don’t need to do anything to receive the increase in benefits. If someone tells you otherwise, you’re likely dealing with a scammer.

• Know how the SSA communicates. According to SSA, “If there is a problem with your Social Security number, we will mail you a letter. Generally, we will only contact you if you have requested a call or have ongoing business with us.” A call, text or email from an SSA agent out of the blue is a red flag.

• Don’t give in to threats. SSA will never threaten you with arrest or legal action. They will never suspend your Social Security number or demand payment from you. They will never ask for personal information or banking details to give you an increase in benefits. If someone demands these things or threatens you over the phone, they are not with SSA.

• When in doubt, hang up. If you suspect you might be getting scammed, stop all communications. Visit Medicare.gov to research or call 1-800-MEDICARE to confirm that the correspondence is legitimate before acting.

The Gardner-Webb University Office of Alumni Relations has planned a full week for HOOPSCOMING in February. Alumni, former athletes, and friends are invited to return to campus for two special events on Feb. 11 and 18.

“We are eager to have our alumni and friends back in Paul Porter Arena for Hoopscoming 2023,” asserted Director of Alumni Relations Leah Clevenger. “For our athletes, there is nothing better than having a packed house! The school spirit and energy that our alumni and friends bring, particularly our basketball and cheer alumni, make for an exciting atmosphere for our Runnin’ Bulldogs. We want to see everyone in their red, black, and bulldog for Hoopscoming on Feb. 11 as well as Legacy & Legends on Feb. 18.”

The program on Feb. 11 begins with lunch at noon in Bost Gym. A special feature is the recognition of the men’s team of 1963 on the 60th anniversary of their conference win. During lunch, team member and GWU Trustee, Tom Watson, will speak about the excitement of that big win for Gardner-Webb. Guests will also hear from coaches, Women’s Basketball Alumna, Linda Cody Shelton ’78, as well as Cheer Alumna, Molly McKinney Huss ’12. Then, everyone will attend the men’s game vs. Campbell at 2 p.m. that includes recognition of groups at various timeouts. All men’s basketball alumni will be recognized during one timeout, and the team of ’63 will have a distinct recognition at another. The cost for lunch and the game is $20. Register here.

On Feb. 18, the program is “Legacy & Legends: Women’s Basketball Celebrates Title IX.” The event starts at 2 p.m. in Stewart Hall. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served, and Women’s Head Coach Alex Simmons will speak along with Lauren Bevis, recently named Big South Conference women’s basketball Co-Player of the Week and the program’s all-time leader in career three-pointers made in the Division I era. Alumni and friends will also have an opportunity to meet all the women’s basketball team members and coaching staff. A behind the scenes tour of the team and facilities will be offered. The game against UNC-Asheville starts at 4 p.m. in Paul Porter Arena.

Women’s basketball alumni will have the honor of “building a human tunnel” for the starting five and special seating behind the bench as guests of Simmons. They will be recognized at halftime and receive a Title IX celebration T-shirt. The cost for the program and the game is $20. Register here. Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@ gardner-webb.edu with your request.

GWU President Dr. William Downs Selected as VP of Big South Executive Committee

Downs Dedicated to Student-Athlete Excellence in the Classroom, on the Field and in the Community Big South Conference Commissioner Kyle B. Kallander announced Wednesday (Jan. 18) that Gardner-Webb University President Dr. William Downs has been selected to serve as Big South Vice President of the

PETS & LIVESTOCK

PETS & LIVESTOCK

Executive Committee. Since September 2022, Downs has served on the Executive Committee as at At-Large Member.

By serving in this leadership role, Downs elevates Gardner-Webb’s involvement and commitment to the Big South Conference and its student-athletes.

“Everyone who works with me knows how passionate I am about the success of our student-athletes at Gardner-Webb,” Downs shared. “For the Runnin’ Bulldogs to be successful, we must be part of a strong, nimble, and innovative conference. As vice president of the Big South

Executive Committee, I am committed to enhancing the competitive standing of all our member institutions across the full range of sports in which we compete. There’s so much uncertainty presently swirling around the world of NCAA athletics, and in the Big South we have to mitigate the distractions by rededicating ourselves to student-athlete excellence in all its forms—in the classroom, on the fields of competition, and in the community. If we do that, there will indeed be big times ahead for the Big South.”

Matt vandenBerg, president at Presbyterian College in Clinton, S.C., has agreed to serve in the At-Large position on the Executive Committee through the remainder of this academic year. Gardner-Webb Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich said Downs is highly regarded in the conference. “On behalf of all the Athletic Directors in the Big South, we are excited to see Dr. Downs enter into this leadership role,” Goodrich observed. “His vision and guidance will prove effective as we enter this new era of NCAA governance.”

The Big South Conference Executive Committee has the See DOWNS, Page 8B

PETS & LIVESTOCK

LABRADOODLE PUPS.

F1B Beautiful cream, black or black/white standard size Labradoodles. Call or text 704-974-6790. Parents shown in pics. (704) 9746790 susan.mccraw55@ gmail.com

MINIATURE LONG HAIR DACHSHUND PUPPIES. Facebook.com/knockoutdoxies. $800-$1500. 828-5219904. Quality mini dachshund pups. Raised in our home with our family. Lots of boys. 2 girls available. (828) 521-9904 kourtneelacey@ gmail.com

FARRIER SERVICE SINCE 1990. TRIMS, HOT/COLD SHOEING & CORRECTIVE WORK AT REASONABLE PRICES. SERVING UPSTATE SC/NC DISTANCE TRAVEL FOR MULTIPLE HORSES ONLY. PLEASE TEXT OR LEAVE VOICEMAIL FOR QUICKER RESPONSE. 864-431-5108 (864) 431-5108 MICHELLECROCKER310@YAHOO.COM

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, 803-7182659.

FOR RENT CLEVELAND COUNTY

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.

CHOCOLATE LAB PUPPIES FOR SALE. Male and female. AKC. Gentle/teachable. Parents on site. Champion bloodline. Vet checked. 704-9148241, KM.

AKC REGISTERED CHOC-

OLATE LABRADORS. AKC

Registered Chocolate Labradors. Ready to go home on February 13, 2023 (828) 3456215 brittaina@yahoo.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

HONEYBEES FOR SALE 3 pound packages of honeybees $128 each. Includes queen. Payment at time of order. Pickup day is March 26th, in Mooresboro NC. Call or email to order. Cash, check, or PayPal. 704-4722917 mswaf100@gmail.com (704) 472-2917 mswaf100@ gmail.com

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. PURE BRED GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES SEEKING NEW HOMES. PARENTS ARE AKC REGISTERED (AND BEAUTIFUL) AND OUR FAMILY PETS. PUPPIES ARE 9 WEEKS OLD AND READY TO BE YOUR BEST FRIEND. $600 EITHER GENDER. LOCATED IN KINGS MOUNTAIN, 704-974-3296 SONJAT1@ YAHOO.COM

WEST GERMANY GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. AKC REGISTERED BLACK & RED SHOW LINE PUPPIES FOR SALE. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A DOG THAT’S LOYAL, CONFIDENT, GREAT TEMPERAMENT, AND READY TO PROTECT YOUR HOME, THESE ARE THE DOGS FOR YOU. THE DAM AND SIRE HAVE EXCELLENT PEDIGREE. REGULAR PRICE $3500, VALENTINES SPECIAL $2500, WITHOUT PAPERS $1800. (864) 590-5375 THEHONEYBEECONTAINER@MSN. COM

AKC/CKC REGISTERED BOXER PUPPIES. Taking $200 deposits now. Total price $900. Ready 2nd week of Feb.

3 males,

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

FOR RENT CLEVELAND COUNTY

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT. In Shelby, NC. 1 to 3 bedrooms renting from $525.00 to $825.00 per month. Call Today. 704-554-8861. frontdesk@kluttspropertymanagement.com

3 BEDROOM, 1 BATH HOUSE. Central heat, air. $950 mo, $950 deposit. Available Feb 15th. 605 E. Grover St. (704) 434-9710 MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $200 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. (704) 473-4299