KM Herald 8-21-24

Feeding Kids of Cleveland County impacts local families

Feeding Kids of Cleveland County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was started in 2016 out of the homes of several families who wanted to make a difference in the lives of students in need in our community. Since its inception, it has grown from serving 20 students in 2016 to serving 220 students in 2023, which adds up to over 800 people it is currently and consistently serving through our programs.

Its mission is to provide food and books to Cleveland County students and families identified as food insecure. They do this through weekend food bags, school break food and book deliveries, and Community Table Thanksgiving Meals.

Over the summer, Feeding Kids Cleveland County served 607 children and 400 adults, totaling 1,007 people across the county.

Reading Kids Cleveland County worked hard to individually choose, pack, and give away over 2,500 books for all students and families throughout the summer. Each child received one book on their reading level and each

family received one nonfiction book at each delivery.

The impact of this initiative is significant. By bringing books into the homes of these families, they are improving literacy rates and promoting a love for reading in a small way. This is a testament to the power of collective action and the difference we can make when we come together.

With the work of Cleveland County Schools social workers and its team of volunteers, it provides a bag of shelf-stable, kid-friendly food on weekends and a large box of shelf-stable food, a bag of fresh food, and age-appropriate books during the four breaks from school throughout the year to bridge this nutritional gap: Spring Break, Summer Break, Thanksgiving Break, and Winter Break. See KIDS, Page 5A

KM Forward hosts sign ordinance Workbench

Session

September 5

KM Forward will hold a Workbench Session on proposed sign ordinance changes featuring the City of Kings Mountain’s Planning Director, Henry Earle, on Thursday, September 5, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at the Patrick Senior Center at 909 E. Kings Street in Kings Mountain.

KM selected as host for Lead for NC Program

The City of Kings Mountain is thrilled to announce its selection as a host city for the Lead for NC (LFNC) Program for the 2024-2025 cycle. This prestigious program is designed to foster a new generation of public

service leaders by pairing enthusiastic young professionals with meaningful fellowships in local government offices across the state.

The LFNC Program is a dynamic initiative to

strengthen public institutions and enhance community support by engaging young talent in local governance. Through this program, fellows gain hands-on experience and contribute to advancing public service

while local governments benefit from fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Kings Mountain, known for its vibrant community and rich history, is set to benefit significantly from See LEAD, Page 8A

NC BeachBlast Festival celebrates its 25 years in KM

By Loretta Cozart

The NC BeachBlast Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary in Kings Mountain on Saturday, August 17.

The sign ordinance will impact any Kings Mountain business with signage, and this is the stakeholder's opportunity to hear the proposed changes and have input.

The city seeks stakeholder engagement on the proposed sign ordinance changes by the Planning and Zoning Board. The planning director will review the proposed sign ordinance changes, followed by a question-and-answer session.

The city wants input on possible renovations for parks

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings

feedback.

The festival featured performances by The Tonez, Blackwater Band, and headliner The Voltage Brothers, and was sponsored by Carolina Power Partners.

This year’s event, pre-

sented by Yates Construction and Metcon, offered something for everyone of all ages. Activities included inflatables, games, the Kids’ Pavilion sponsored by Clearwater Paper, the allnew Pirate Port sponsored by Southeastern Container, the Rotary Splash Pad, watermelon eating sponsored by Food Lion, swashbuckling pirates, the big Beach

Ball Drop sponsored by Sun-Drop, and the second annual BeachBlast Golf Cart Parade.

The music began at noon with DJs Johnny B and Eric Bowman. Over 50 vendors provided great food and beverages, and more than 3,000 festivalgoers shopped until they dropped on Boardwalk Vendor Row.

easy to see why the NC BeachBlast Festival continues to receive acclaim. City of Kings Mountain Tourism and Events always does a great job of bringing fun downtown. They are the first to say that they could not do it without their dedicated volunteers who always show up to make local events a huge success, as

Mountain invites you to view renderings of possible renovations to Davidson/Sims Street Park (soccer fields), vote on your favorite, and give

Your first opportunity was during Beach Blast at Patriots Park on Saturday, August 17, from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. If you missed that, share your thoughts through Friday, August 23 by visiting Mauney Memorial Library. The renderings will be available for viewing and feedback during regular library hours.

Take this opportunity to voice your opinion on these potential renovations.

Fin and Gil hope everyone attending the NC BeachBlast Festival had a great time at this historic event. Have any cool pictures of the event you would like to share? Post your pictures using #BeachBlastturns25 and enter to win a meet and greet with our fantastic fish. We will share your photos here and with the KM Herald. Photo by City of Kings Mountain

Beach music lovers always enjoy the dance floor for their signature moves. (Photos by Angela Padgett) See more photos on page 5A

■ OBITUARIES

Robert Houser

KINGS MOUNTAIN

– Robert Houser, 85, died Sunday, August 4, 2024 at Hospice at Wendover.

Born October 6, 1938, Robert went home August 4, 2024. He was the beloved son of Curtis Henry Houser and Devola Houser Smith and step-son of Jack Smith.

Bob leaves behind a wife, Diane Ormand Houser of Kings Mountain, NC; a brother, Rod Henry Houser, of Greer SC, and three children: Robert Curtis Houser, Jr. of Matthews, NC, Lisa Michelle Houser, and Christopher Andrew Houser, both of West Jefferson, NC.

Bob spent his childhood in Kings Mountain, attending high school there. He played football for the legendary John Gamble and Shu Carlton, then served his country as a member of the 82nd Airborne.

Nicholas Arthur Smith, Sr.

August 28, 1938August 2, 2024

ORANGE COUNTY, CA – Nicholas Arthur Smith, Sr., former longtime resident of Colorado Springs, CO and Sewanee, TN, passed away on August 2, 2024 in his more recent place of residence in Orange County, CA, after a long illness, which he fought bravely and with good humor.

He was born on August 28, 1938 in Charlotte, NC and was raised in nearby Kings Mountain.

He attended Kings Mountain High School and the Fishburne Military School after surviving a devastating case of polio in 1952 that led to his temporary confinement to an iron lung, proving his tenacity even at a young age. He was a graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Law and the University of the South School of Theology. His myriad career saw legal practice in North Carolina and Virginia and work in academia at universities in North Carolina, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and Colorado.

Once considered a rising star in the party, he was the Republican nominee for Attorney General of North Carolina in 1972, at which time he became the first white candidate in a statewide election in North Carolina to employ an

A voracious reader, he most enjoyed the Bible, history, and a good newspaper. He attended college at King College in Bristol, TN, as well as Limestone College in Gaffney, SC. He was a natural salesman with a great work ethic. He had an illustrious career with Emery Air Freight, matriculating from sales to management. Bob was also an entrepreneur, launching Specialty Transport Inc. later in life. He loved the Lord, his wife, his family and friends, and any form of motorsports.

The Houser family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the Ormand and Trammell family for their love and sacrifice in caring for Bob, they are angels.

Aquamation services are provided by Clay-Barnette Funeral Home and Aquamation of Kings Mountain www.claybarnette.com

African-American campaign manager. He also served as the Director of the North Carolina Department of License and Enforcement, which oversaw all State Patrol and DMV operations statewide. He was particularly proud to have founded and run legal aid clinics serving the Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribal population in Cherokee, NC and the impoverished population of Roanoke, VA.

Later consulting work in the 1980s and 1990s took him to places as far afield as Western Europe, Indonesia, Japan, and the Komi Province of Russia. The new century found him studying theology, discovering a renewed sense of faith, which showed in his interactions with others. He was never found without a stack of books and a legal pad with notes on subjects as diverse as anthropology, bioethics, history, philosophy, international affairs, and religion, among others.

He loved traveling, opera, documentaries, roaring fireplaces, and exploring new ideas and knowledge up until his final days. He wore his heart on his sleeve, never hesitated to say “I love you,” and was a friend and mentor to many. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his four children: Nicholas A. Smith, Jr. (Antonia) of Philipsburg, NJ, Jocelyn Busby (Greg) of Memphis, TN, Edward Gideon Smith of Charlotte, NC, and Benjamin Woodford Smith (Karla) of Irvine, CA, as well as six grandchildren: Cole, Kathleen, Henry, Maxwell, Christina, and Vasilis and their spouses, and three great-grandchildren: Ann, Brantley, and Jennie, and his first wife, Carol Walker Jordan of Charlotte, NC.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edward A. Smith, Jr.

to their

NC State Highway Patrol graduates 41 new Troopers

The State Highway Patrol proudly welcomed 41 new troopers on August 16, at a graduation ceremony for the 163rd Basic Highway Patrol School. The ceremony celebrated our state's newest Troopers on their accomplishments and decision to embark on a rewarding career of service to the state of North Carolina. It culminated 27

and Eloise Moss Smith, older brother Edward H. Smith, and his second wife, Susan Woodford Smith of Colorado Springs, with whom he maintained a close friendship until her death in 2005 despite their amicable 1990s divorce, having served as one of her caretakers during her final illness.

He shared his life with numerous dogs who were faithful companions over many decades, beginning with Happy, a much loved Cocker Spaniel in his childhood, and concluding with Juno, an Aussie mix who was his traveling companion on many road trips around America prior to his illness and was a comforting presence for him after it descended upon him. Most recently he enjoyed visiting with his son’s Terrier mix Edie, whom he affectionately referred to as his “granddog.”

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff of the Stanley Healthcare Center in Westminster, CA, which was his home for several years, as well as to The Rev. Charles Sumners, formerly of Colorado Springs, CO, and The Rev. Nathan Biornstad of Huntington Beach, CA, who each provided great spiritual comfort to him over the long years of his illness.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to St. Wilfrid’s of York Episcopal Church in Huntington Beach, CA, the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region in Colorado Springs, CO, or the Mauny Memorial Library in Kings Mountain, NC, where his lifelong love of learning was born.

A memorial service will be held on September 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Wilfrid’s of York Episcopal Church in Huntington Beach, CA. It will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.

According

weeks of demanding training received at the State Highway Patrol Training Academy in Raleigh. The ceremony was held at The Shepherd's Church in Cary. North Carolina Department of Public Safety Secretary Eddie M. Buffaloe Jr. was a guest speaker and congratulated the graduates. Associate Supreme Court Justice

Trey Allen of the North Carolina Supreme Court administered the oath of office. Colonel Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol, encouraged the new troopers and their families.

“It is admirable that these new Troopers have chosen a life of service to our great state,” said Johnson. “I have great faith that their work as ambassadors will only strengthen the positive reputation our agency has built throughout our storied 95-year history.” Trooper Caleb E. Mullins will report to his duty station in Shelby on Wednesday, Sept. 11, to begin his demanding field training program.

State Board recognizes “We The People” as Official NC Political Party

According to its website, the State Board of Elections recognized the We The People Party of North Carolina as an official political party in the state on Tuesday. Recognition of this party means voters now have eight choices of party affiliation when registering to vote or updating an existing registration. Voters may register with the Constitution, Democratic, Green, Libertarian, No Labels, Republican, or We The People parties, or as unaffiliated. This recognition also means that voters currently registered with a different political party or as unaffiliated may switch to the We The People Party, if they wish. We The People also will have candidates on ballots in November, which it chose during its June 2024 nominating convention. They include Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Nicole Shanahan for president and vice president of the United States, Jeff Scott of Charlotte for NC Senate District 40, and Mark Ortiz of Kannapolis for Rowan County Commissioner, according

to a letter from We The People, North Carolina. The State Board will update voter registration applications to include the new political party option. Until then, voters may register with the new party by checking the “Other” box and writing “We The People” on the line in the “Political Party Affiliation” section of the voter registration form.

State Board voter data also will be updated to include the new party registrants.

According to a review by State Board staff, “We The People submitted 18,309 valid signatures from registered N.C. voters, 4,444 more than the required 13,865 signatures. The signatures were verified by the county boards of elections of the counties in which they were collected. We The People also received at least 200 signatures from three different congressional districts, a requirement of ‘Political party’ defined; creation of new party (N.C.G.S. § 16396(a)(2)).”

“A majority of the State Board voted not to rec-

ognize the Justice for All Party in North Carolina. Members opposed to the party’s recognition cited evidence of fraud in the signature gathering process, as well as the refusal of independent signature gatherers to comply with a subpoena for information from the Board.”

In response to this decision, NC House Speaker Tim Moore issued the following statement, “The extreme partisan North Carolina State Board of Elections has denied Cornel West and the Justice for All Party the right to appear on the ballot in November, despite the party meeting all requirements for ballot access. This blatant attempt by Democrats on the NCSBE to bend the rules to insulate their own party’s nominee perfectly illustrates the need for a more balanced Board of Elections."

In other business, the State Board of Elections appointed Roy Burton Osborn, a Democrat, to the Jackson County Board of Elections.

Graduates of the 163rd Basic Highway Patrol School completed 27 weeks of training before being assigned

respective duty stations on September 11. Photo by NCSHP

The Extension Master GardenerSM Association of Cleveland County invites the community to participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census on August 23-24.

Participating is easy, and anyone can do it. Pick a spot in your garden, yard, local park or other outdoor location. Choose a pollinator plant to observe, any blooming plant that has insect activity. Spend 15 minutes observing the plant and count and categorize the insects that land on it. The community can also join members of the local Master

Gardener volunteers at the Foothills Farmers’ Market in Shelby on Saturday, August 24 to participate.

Links to a counting sheet and a pamphlet with the categories can be accessed on the Great Southeast Pollinator Census website at gsepc. org. This site is also where participants will upload their counts.

“Scientists estimate that pollinators are responsible for one in three bites of the food humans eat,” said Joe Bothel, an Extension Master Gardener volunteer in Cleveland County, “but pol-

linators are declining. The main causes are habitat loss, pesticide use, and for honeybees it’s disease.” He added that in the United States pollination is valued at nearly $20 billion annually.

According to the N.C. State Extension Master Gardener volunteers’ website, the pollinator census project is a “citizen science project that invites community members of all ages to observe and count pollinator activity in their yards and neighborhoods.” The data collected provides information on pollinator popula-

tions and diversity.

The project was started by a University of Georgia Extension specialist in 2017. North Carolina joined the effort last year through the efforts of extension experts from NC State and NC A&T State University. Last year in North Carolina, more than 200 volunteers in 39 counties participated.

“Pollinators are essential for our way of life,” said Bothel, “and we need to do what we can to protect them.”

For more information on the Great Southeast Pollinator Census and how to participate, visit gsepc.org.

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE: I tremble for my country when I hear of confidence expressed in me. I know too well my weakness, that our only hope is in God.

–Robert E. Lee

Pieces of Kings Mountain History

Hayne

Neisler shared an interesting article from the October 1882

Gastonia Gazette about an event in Kings Mountain. It states, “The most phenomenal and marvelous musical performance in its seeming impossibilities was given to astonished and delighted citizens of Kings Mountain this past week. The bills posted all over town stated, “A Grand Concert by the Gruber Family’’, Mr. Gruber and his family arrived in Kings Mountain Friday afternoon staying at Dick Cansler’s hotel. Mr. Gruber, without the introductory of ornate oratory- a man possessing so vast the magic of music, exhibited a violin 865 years old. It was a beautiful instrument, covered with indistinct Roman characters, finely finished ending (if that is the term), with the head of Homer. It

was the perfect likeness of ‘Home,’ as we boys dubbed him at school, and was the sweetest tuned violin we ever heard.

“Mr. Gruber played his fiddle ottom up,

played the bow with the fiddle, with one hand, with his chin; without holding it--played it in so many inconceivable ways that we believe if he had laid both fiddle

and bow on opposite sides of the stage the tune would have still gone on; for during all these rapid evolutions not a note was lost or the slightest break occurred. If he had hung his fiddle in the sun, there’s no doubt he could have drawn a tune from its shadow.

“Mr. Gruber was able, with a fiddle, to imitate a steam piano, a mockingbird, a pig excitedly grunting and

frantically squealing. He also imitated the Southern Railway train heading to Gastonia.

Miss Mary Louise Gruber, the three-year-old daughter, was the highlight of the show, singing several entertaining songs that were often applauded. The astonishing precocity was the wonder of all, and her child-like manners caused exclamations of ‘’the little darling,’’ all over the house. Master

Willie Gruber, aged nine years, was an outstanding comic who sang a beautiful duet with sister Camille, aged five. The performance was so such a success it was held over for one more night for an appearance at Captain Bell’s Academy.” The Gazette estimated that over 500 people attended the two performances, and 1/3 of the gate was donated to the local Baptist Church.”

Competition and the freedom to choosecars, hamburgers, schools, and ice cream

In 1975, I bought a four-cylinder Chevrolet Monza. In my opinion in was a terrible buy and a lousy car. There was one episode after another of maintenance issues and the four-cylinder engine was just a piece of junk.

I survived that car long enough to trade it in on a Toyota Celica. I felt like I had gone from the bottom to the top in the world of driving. The ride was so smooth and the acceleration was sweet in comparison to what I had been driving. I drove that car about eight years and never had an issue.

That was way back then. Today is different in America. Overall, our cars are better, safer, more powerful, and more efficient than ever before. We have come a long way in our auto industry and we can be thankful for one thing – competition. Germany, Japan and China have put us on our toes the last 50 years and the competition has simply made us work harder to deliver a competitive

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

chia. We only had one doctor in our county seat town. I can remember my mother and I sitting for two hours waiting to see Dr. Ford in Inez, Kentucky. We desperately needed a couple more doctors for the sake of the community and for the sake of Dr. Ford. A second doctor down the street would have helped. Today, the town has more access to doctors which is good for everyone.

Can you imagine if McDonalds was the only fast-food hamburger chain? In some communities, it may be. However, in many communities there is a McDonalds, a Burger King, and a Hardees often all within a block or two. Seems to me like they all do well even though there is competition.

What if you only had one gasoline station in town? Or, what if one gasoline distributor owns all the local gasoline stations? Then the price of gas would be very high. In some communities, people are struggling with this exact scenario. Gas is outrageous partly because there isn’t enough competition. Don’t knock those who are trying out electric cars as it brings another level of competition to the playing field.

Don’t get upset if someone starts a private school in your county. When I was a child, we had one choice for elementary and high

school. In 1964, our county (Martin county Kentucky) was said to be the poorest county in the United States. President Lyndon Johnson even began his campaign on poverty there. We didn’t know we were poor but we were either very poor or marginally poor. My dad had a coal mining job. We always had food to eat but there was no way he could have paid tuition for a private elementary or high school. It wouldn’t have mattered because there wasn’t a choice.

I loved my schools and loved my friends from those days, but we didn’t have much. The public school made it possible for us to receive an education. I can remember having two terrible teachers in those days who slept through many of our classes. They should have been retired or fired many years prior. They were good people, and they were loved, but their days of teaching

and handling a class had long passed. Obviously, this can happen in many places. Children rarely recuperate from what was supposed to be taught during that formative period.

A private school in town could take money from the public school if the tax money follows the student to the private school or even to another district. It might even be home school. Twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia have at least one private school choice program.

This aggravates and terrifies some school boards and administrators. Why be afraid of competition? I don’t think very many people want to pay extra money to send their kids to a private elementary or high school. There is almost always extra tuition and fees to pay even if the tax money follows the student. There will always be a few who choose the private school. Let them do it and don’t worry

about it. Just be a great public school with zero tolerance for bullying. Expect respect and work from the students. Support the teachers and expect them to do their jobs. Give the students all the support and love they deserve. Thus, you won’t have to worry much about local competitors.

Most every town has the Baptist, Methodist, Catholic churches, and more. You can be one of these or nothing at all. You have a choice. I recently went into an ice cream shop that had over 100 flavors. The decision was tough but black cherry won over all the other flavors. The competition was fierce, but I’m so glad I had a choice.

Glenn Mollette is published in all fifty states. Find books by Glenn Mollette at Amazon. com Learn more about his books, columns and music at GlennMollette. Com. Email him at gmollette@aol.com

LORETTA COZART

Mr. Gruber and his violin. Photo by Hayne Neisler

Scenes from NC BeachBlast

(From Page 1A)

KIDS

From Page 1A

It delivers three times during Summer Break since this is the most extended break for students. In Cleveland County, one in three children is food insecure. Extended breaks from school, such as Spring and Winter Break, leave hundreds of students without a reliable food source they would normally receive through the school nutrition program at breakfast and lunch. As a new school year begins, they have already begun

thinking about Thanksgiving deliveries, Community Table Thanksgiving Meals (Nov. 27), Christmas deliveries, and the Light Ball Dash (Dec. 22).

Facepainting keeps the kids busy, as the day lazily passes by.

The young enjoy the watermelon and fun activities.

The Splash Pad is always a great way for the kids to cool off.

Nothing like a face full of cold watermelon on a hot summer afternoon. Ahhhh!

The drummer is having a great time playing for the crowd.

The entrance to the park is always a magical experience, as this young girl can attest.

NC BeachBlast is always about the music, and dancing, and fun! (Photos by Angela Padgett)

The Beach Ball drop is a favorite for the young and old alike.

Did we mention dancing? That continues until the last song is played.

The image is defaced but not erased

Sometimes I wonder if we could split up our society into two groups…the people who talk about politics and those we wish we could stop talking about politics.

I believe we could give a constructive critique of both groups. I have met people who refuse to stop talking about politics. They watch politics on television all day, check their social media, and read the news online every chance they get. They even get upset or joyful based on how their preferred candidate performs on a given week.

some point. This group likely needs to remember that politics only matter because elected officials enact programs and policies that have a direct on the daily lives of people in America and around the world. Politics help shape how we live our lives and reflect the deeply held values of the people who vote for them. As much as some people would like to see the discussion of politics end, part of the beauty of politics is the way it forces us as people to engage one another in pursuit of truth, useful programs, and a better understanding of how to move forward.

The other group wishes people could stop talking about politics at

But I think you and I could benefit in a uniquely Christian way of

approaching any discussion of politics. In Genesis 1:27 Moses writes “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them.”

Whether you read those words for the first time or the fortieth time today, I want you to focus on the words “in his own image.” It felt like those words jumped off the page the first time I read them.

God made you and I in His image. God also made the person you disagree with about politics. He made the people on both sides of the political aisle. He even created those who talk too much about politics and those who could care less. Everyone was created in His image.

I don’t mean to imply that everyone lives perfectly and never makes mistakes. We all fail and also have

flawed thinking at times. I feel certain you know someone who has beliefs that seem so odd you struggle to imagine what’s going on in their brain. You might think that about what I’ve written here.

Bottom line: God created everyone in His image. Because of that they have worth. They are worth loving. They have ideas, thoughts, and stories that could teach us a little about God. God created them.

Let’s think about this for a second. Every single person you meet could teach you and I something about the character of God. God made them in His image. I learn more about God from each person I meet.

But some of you want me to answer the question “What about sin?” Great question. The image is defaced but not erased. Not every-

thing a person does, thinks, or says will beautifully reflect the image of God due to the impact of sin in our world. Sometimes the thoughts and actions of the people you disagree with demonstrate the ongoing struggle they have with some area of sin in their life more than how God made them in His image.

When we remember the image is defaced but not erased we carry the responsibility looking for how God could be at work in the other person. Both political parties are filled with people made in God’s image. We may disagree with someone’s views or who they vote for but we should never deny the fact that God made them in His image and they are worthy of our love. Because after all… the image is defaced but not erased.

Blessings, Pastor Brad

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

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

Sunrise Baptist Church 208 Mail Road 704-692-3007

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

The Favor Center Church 602 Slater Street

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

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

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

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

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

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

Long Creek Presbyterian Church

701 Long Creek Road

704-629-4406

Love Valley Baptist Church

2032 Bethlehem Road

704-730-0075

Macedonia Baptist Church

1101 S. Battleground Ave.

704-739-6811

Midview Baptist Church

703 Margrace Road

704-739-6711

Mount Zion

Missionary Baptist Church

220 N. Watterson Street

704-739-8354

Mountain View

Agape Church

506 Sparrow Springs Road

704-739-0160

Mt. Olive

Baptist Church Compact School Road

704-739-4516

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

220 N. Watterson Street

704-739-8354

New Beginnings Church of Jesus Christ 541 Crocker Road

704-730-9507

New Bynum Chapel

AME

Zion Church N. Cansler Street

704-739-2606

New Camp Creek

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

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

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

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

Oak View Baptist Church 1517 York Road

704-739-7831

Pathway Baptist Church 3100 Parkdale Circle 704-734-0852

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

Penley’s Chapel Church 1805 N Piedmont Ave

704-524-4139

Peoples Baptist Church 1010 Groves Street 704-739-0398

Proclaiming the Word Ministries 7011 Cleveland Avenue

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

Resurrection Lutheran Church 600 Crescent Circle 704-739-5580

Royal Praise Ministries 2055 Shelby Rd.

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

Second Baptist Church 120 Linwood Road 704-739-4216

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

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

Westover Baptist Church 114 Westover Drive

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

Anew Beginning Baptist Church 415 Dixon School Rd. 704-473-1372

Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700

Arise Church 830 E. King St. Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road 704-739-7487

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

BRAD BRIDGES Pastor Patterson Grove Baptist Church

Woman’s Club Indoor Yard Sale Sat, Aug 24

Museum’s 21st Annual Fundraiser September 21

Kings Mountain Historical Museum will host its 21st Annual Fundraiser on Saturday, September 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Kings Mountain Historical Museum with a catered dinner, beer and wine, historic demonstrations, and raffle prizes. The fundraiser generates revenue to support the museum's programming. Tickets for the annual fundraiser are now on sale! You can purchase

a ticket online, from a board member, or in the museum Gift Shop. Tickets are $100 per person for non-members and $75 per person for members.

The evening features a catered dinner by Jo’s Florist & Catering, LLC, musical entertainment, beer & wine, and historic demonstrations on the museum grounds. There will be no auctions this year, but we will have some great raffle items

KMHS Band Heritage exhibit at KM Historical Museum

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Historical Museum now features a Kings Mountain High School band history exhibit. The exhibits, which end on October 26, overview Kings Mountain's band history and culture. The public is invited to reminisce with

old photographs, band uniforms, and ephemera from days past.

Classes holding reunions this fall should visit the museum’s exhibit while celebrating their school year, as it includes artifacts and photos from across the decades.

Exhibits are on display

cited in federal regulation and as outlined in Outpatient Pharmacy Clinical Coverage Policy No. 9, which is available on the

for giveaways! Get your tickets today and help preserve Kings Mountain History. Tickets can be purchased online, at the museum, or from a KMHM Board Member.

The event also welcomes event sponsors and in-kind donations for auction items. To learn more about sponsorship and donation opportunities, please call 704-739-1019 or email kmhmdirector@ outlook.com.

Kim Callahan Memorial Scholarship Recipient announced

VIA Health Partners, founded as Hospice Cleveland County, announced the recipient of this year’s Kim Callahan Memorial Scholarship. Named for Hospice Cleveland County’s former Director of Nursing, Kim Callahan, the scholarship was established to provide tuition reimbursement to VIA Health Partners – Cleveland Co. nurses who choose to advance their nursing credentials through an accredited program.

This year’s award was presented to Angela Humphries, RN and Clinical Director at Wendover and Testa Family Hospice Houses. Humphries is currently pursuing her master’s degree at UNC Wilmington and has been a member of VIA Health Partners’ Cleveland team

since 2006. She was recently recognized at a reception given in her honor. Kim Callahan began her career with Hospice Cleveland County in 1996 and served the organization for 21 years before passing away from pancreatic cancer in October 2017. Following her passing, the Callahan family established a scholarship in her name to honor her years of distinguished service. VIA Health Partners offers hospice and palliative services spanning 35 counties across North and South Carolina. The VIA Health Partners Cleveland County office serves as the hub of the Western Region which includes Caldwell, Burke,

McDowell, Rutherford, and Polk counties.

About VIA Health Partners: VIA Health Partners began as Hospice at Charlotte, the state’s first hospice, and was incorporated in 1978. Later, Hospice at Charlotte operated under the name Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region (HPCCR) for decades before changing its name change to VIA Health Partners in 2023. In Fall 2020, Hospice Cleveland County and HPCCR merged. Today, VIA Health Partners serves over 3,500 patients on any given day through its hospice and palliative services. For more information, visit VIAhp.org.

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

Program Specific Clinical Coverage Policies web page: https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/ providers/program-specific-clinical-coverage-policies.

NC Medicaid is adding this coverage because of the substantial weight loss associated with these medications and the impact on comorbidities. Prescription obesity management medications are now playing a role in addressing the obesity epidemic, as they may provide additional weight loss benefits compared to lifestyle modifications alone. Certain weight loss therapies, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists (GLP-1s), can help reduce weight, lower blood sugar, and lower rates of significant cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke.

This new coverage helps to mitigate gaps in care that are unaddressed by currently covered services and reaches eligible beneficiaries who are most at risk of obesity-related health complications.

Medicaid beneficiaries should contact their healthcare provider for more information.

The Medicaid Contact Center can be reached at (888) 245-0179, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

knife to remove backbone from chicken to lay flat. Remove rib cage, if desired, or push flat with hands.

• Mix butter, heat-and-sweet seasoning and garlic powder. Using meat injector, inject mixture into chicken. Rub remaining buttered seasoning over chicken and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

• Place spatchcock chicken breast-side up over indirect heat and cook 35-40 minutes.

• When internal temperature reaches 145 F, flip chicken breast-side down over direct heat 5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. serving. CARAMELIZED BANANAS

VIA Health Partners Staff with Angela Humphries – L to R: Tom Atwood, Angela Humphries, Cindy Hamby, Jason Beam, Rachel Hill, Pam Sharts, Jada White, Erin Sarratt and Christy Ledbetter.

Kings Mountain High School marching band circa 1947-1948.

Photo DigitalNC

August is Child Support Awareness month

By Loretta Cozart

August is Child Support Awareness Month, a time dedicated to honoring the vital role of the Child Support Services Program. This observance in North Carolina underscores the program's commitment to ensuring child and family well-being, one of the top priorities of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS).

Child support is more than financial assistance— it's a commitment to providing essential resources like food, shelter, clothing, and contributions to education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. Navigating the child support system can be challenging, so initiatives like Child Support Awareness Month are crucial. These initiatives empower parents, guardians, and communities by educating them about available resources and assistance.

Parents who receive support should feel empowered because they understand their rights and the steps involved in obtaining

child support services. Furthermore, parents who pay support must know their responsibilities and the impact of consistent support payments on their child's well-being. Studies consistently show that children who receive adequate financial support from both parents tend to have better education, health, and emotional well-being outcomes.

In Fiscal Year 20222023, NC Child Support Services distributed more than $644 million in child support payments to families statewide. They commend the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support families every day. Let’s strive to create a culture where child support is viewed as a shared responsibility and expression of love and care for our children.

Throughout August, NC Child Support Services will sponsor an internal Backto-School Supply Drive, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting needy families. During the 39th Annual NC Child Support Council Conference in New Bern, NC, there will

CLASS REUNIONS

KMHS Class of 1974 50th Reunion

The KMHS Class of 1974 will be holding their 50th class reunion on Saturday, September 21, 2024, with some special events also on Friday, September 20th. They are currently try-

ing to gather contact information on all classmates. If you have not received any information, please email kmclassof1974@gmail.com or call 704-284-0284, or 704-466-8043 so they can get the information to you.

KMHS Class of 1964 60th Reunion

The KMHS Class of 1964 will hold its 60th Class Reunion on Friday, September 20, and Saturday, September 21. If you are a classmate and have not received an invitation in the mail, please call Jim/Mary Medlin at 704/739-4321 to receive information on the reunion events.

From Page 1A

this partnership. As a host city, Kings Mountain will welcome LFNC fellows into its local government

be a Child Support Awareness Walk; this event aims to unite passionate professionals and raise awareness about the valuable services offered through the Child Support Services Program. Keep up with the latest events on the NC Child Support Council’s Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/chaildsupportcouncilnc/.

Additionally, NCDHHS staff will adorn Dix Campus in Raleigh and the conference venue with green pinwheels to prominently signify Child Support Awareness Month. To bolster our outreach, look out for our social posts, a robust social media campaign, sharing achievements, resources, and details about the eChild Support Parents’ Portal on NCDHHS’ Facebook (https://www. facebook.com/ncdhhs/) and X (formerly Twitter) (https://x.com/ncdhhs) pages. We encourage everyone to repost and retweet these updates across their own social media platforms to amplify our message and reach a wider audience.

99 NC-eligible hospitals signed on state’s debt relief plan

Last week, Gov. Cooper and NCDHHS Secretary Kody H. Kinsley announced that all 99 eligible hospitals in North Carolina have signed on to the state's innovative plan to relieve medical debt for millions of people.

The estimated total impact of the medical debt relief incentive program is approximately $4 billion. Nearly 2 million low- and middle-income North Carolinians will have more than a decade of existing medical debt relieved.

By signing on to the plan, hospitals have committed to relieving medical

offices, where they will have the opportunity to work on critical projects, support community

Rising NC unaffiliated voters to impact upcoming elections

The significant percentage of unaffiliated registered voters in North Carolina could have several implications for upcoming state and national elections.

North Carolina is a swing state, meaning it can go either way in presidential elections. The high number of unaffiliated voters in the state makes their preferences crucial. The preferences of unaffiliated voters could tip the balance in closely contested races. Their influence extends beyond North Carolina, potentially affecting national outcomes. Candidates will need to appeal to this diverse group to secure their votes.

Campaigns are approaching unaffiliates differently than voters already associated with established political parties. Unaffiliated voters are more likely to prioritize independent thinking and specific policy issues over party loyalty. To connect, candidates must address various concerns, from healthcare and education to the economy and social justice. Campaigns must adopt inclusive messaging to attract unaffiliated voters, and candidates may need to focus on bipartisan solutions and avoid extreme positions.

Unaffiliated voters also play a critical role in state and local elections. Their choices impact the presidency, governorships, legislatures, and other offices, including local races.

Mobilizing unaffiliated voters will be essential. Parties and candidates will need to invest in more aggressive get-out-the-vote efforts. Engaging young voters within this group can significantly impact overall turnout.

A 2023 study by The

debt dating back to Jan. 1, 2014, for all Medicaid beneficiaries and medical debt deemed uncollectible for all patients whose income is at or below at least 350% of the federal poverty level. Past medical debt that ex-

initiatives, and develop essential skills in public administration.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill showed that unaffiliated voters are rising in North Carolina. As of September 2023, over a third (36.3%) of North Carolina’s 7.3 million registered voters are unaffiliated.

Overall, unaffiliated voters have become the largest voting bloc in North Carolina, surpassing registered Democrats. Their growth reflects changing political dynamics in the state.

The study showed that younger voters (ages 18-34) are more likely to register as unaffiliated, comprising a larger share of this group. In contrast, only 25% of voters aged 75 and older are unaffiliated.

Race and ethnicity play a role in North Carolina voter affiliation trends. Unaffiliated voters are more likely to identify as white (66%), followed by Asian (2.3%) and Hispanic (5%). Black voters are less common among unaffiliated voters (11%).

The voters’ place of birth and location impact party choice. Northeastern-born voters are most likely to be registered as unaffiliated, accounting for over 14% of all unaffiliated voters. North Carolina-born voters comprise 33% of the state’s unaffiliated voter population.

There are numerous unaffiliated voters all across North Carolina’s 100 counties. The top 10 counties with the highest share of unaffiliated voters include Transylvania (45%), Watauga (45%), Camden (45%), Henderson (44%), Currituck (43%), Wake (42%), Buncombe (42%), Jackson (42%), Dare (42%), and Madison (41%). Counties with the lowest rates of unaffiliated voter registrations

ceeds 5% of a person’s annual income will also be relieved. Patients do not need to take any action to benefit from the program. The goal is for eligible North Carolinians to begin to see relief for exist-

include Edgecombe (16%), Warren (20%), and Hertford (21%).

In Cleveland County, Rutherford County, and Lincoln County, the percentage of registered unaffiliated voters in each county in 2023 was approximately 36.3%, large enough to heavily influence the outcome of the upcoming election. These unaffiliated voters span a wide range of demographics, with younger adults (ages 18-34) comprising a significant share of this group.

In Gaston County, the impact of unaffiliates will be less in the upcoming election, as they will make up only 15% of the registered voters in 2023.

With a sizable portion of the state’s unaffiliated trending younger (18-34), campaigns are working overtime to craft messages that will attract these voters to support their cause. North Carolina is considered a battleground state in the 2024 Presidential Election. Candidates hope that their stance on issues such as reproductive rights, gun safety, and commitment to combating climate change will resonate with influential young voters, specifically those 18- to 35-years-old. Others feel that the unaffiliated residents’ concerns about the economy will be the driving force to secure needed votes.

In summary, the large percentage of unaffiliated voters introduces challenges and opportunities for candidates. They must navigate diverse perspectives, prioritize key issues, and appeal to this influential voting bloc.

ing medical debt within the next two years. For additional information, visit the updated Frequently Asked Questions page on North Carolina’s efforts to relieve medical debt

The LFNC Program’s mission aligns perfectly with Kings Mountain’s commitment to building a resilient and responsive public sector. By participating in LFNC, the city supports the professional growth of young leaders and strengthens its capacity to address local challenges and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

The selection of Kings Mountain underscores the city’s dedication to investing in its future and nurturing the next generation of public service professionals. The program promises to bring both immediate benefits and long-term impacts, fostering a robust and engaged community ready to tackle the evolving needs of its citizens.

In July 2024, the (LFNC) program welcomed 38 new Fellows to the School of Government to attend the summer training academy and launch their careers in public service. This year's cohort marks the sixth year of the program and the largest cohort of Fellows to date.

LFNC matches young people interested in public service careers with impactful fellowships in local government offices across the state to strengthen public institutions, support local communities, and grow the next generation of public service leaders.

Last year, the program successfully piloted a finance-focused track for Fellows, which returns for a second year. Forty percent of Fellows in Cohort Six are participating in the finance track, and their fellowships will as-

sist local governments facing capacity constraints in their finance departments with everything from accounts payable to internal controls.

Strong partnerships with other organizations have been essential to the program’s success, and the SECU Foundation's support has been particularly instrumental. This year, the SECU Foundation renewed its support of LFNC with a gift supporting up to 150 Fellows over the next five years. This funding allows the program to grow and prioritize placements in rural and under-resourced communities, where local governments may need additional assistance.

“If it weren't for their foundational investment in LFNC in 2019, this program would neither exist nor have flourished as it has over the years,” said Jennifer Willis, associate dean for advancement and partnerships. “They had the bold vision to invest in this initiative, resulting in transformational changes in communities across the state. Additionally, they have inspired a new generation to explore the possibilities of a career in public service.”

Fellow Reed Ballus will serve for eleven months as the NC LFNC Program’s public service leader in the City of Kings Mountain.

Mountaineers open football season this week against longest rival Shelby

The Kings Mountain High School football teams will begin another exciting season this week against their longest rival Shelby.

The JVs will host the Lions Thursday at 7 p.m. at John Gamble Stadium and the varsity will travel to Shelby Friday night for a 7:30 kickoff.

The Mountaineers and Lions have gone through a hot summer workout season and last Friday competed in the annual Cleveland County Jamboree at Burns High School.

The Mountaineers faced the South Mecklenburg Sabres and came away with a 7-2 victory in what amounted to about a half game.

“I was pleased with how we played,” noted Coach Strait Herron. “But I was kind of frustrated for us not doing some things we think we can do. We worked them hard on Wednesday and Thursday and maybe we worked them too hard. We hope we’ll play better this Friday.” Shelby also left Burns with a win and Herron said the Lions are impressive.

“They look very good and won their game by ten points,” he noted. “They were basic and I’m sure they will do more than what they showed. We just want to get ready to do what we do.

“We ran the ball better than we threw it,” he said of the Mountaineers’ win over a good South Meck team. “I’m not really sure where we are at quarterback right now but we’ll give both of them (Darreon Dixon and TJ Armstrong) a shot in practice and make a decision on Friday.

“We had nothing on South Mecklenburg and went in blind,” he added. “What they ran was nothing like what we expected.”

The Mountaineers lost one of their top returning linemen, Dom Davis, to a knee injury in practice recently and Herron said he will probably be out at least two weeks if not more.

Looking to Friday’s game at Shelby, Herron said it will be a tough challenge.

“They didn’t run a lot of

Runnin’ Bulldogs’ first scrimmage game at Western Carolina Aug. 23

Coming off its best Division I season finish in program history—third in the Big South—the Gardner-Webb Volleyball team is eager to make its records in 2024. A new coaching staff, six returning players, and 11 new Runnin’ Bulldogs are set to take the court this week with a scrimmage on Aug. 23 at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C.

Head Coach Alex Hinsey enters his first season in Boiling Springs. His new assistant, Matt Hamilton, joined GWU after two seasons at Millersville University. Gardner-Webb plays a total of 28 matches this season. The team has four weekend tournaments scheduled at Norfolk State, Appalachian State, UNC-Wilmington/Coastal Carolina and George Mason. The first home game in Paul Porter Arena will be on Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. against Furman. The slate of 14 conference games begins on Sept. 28 in a match at home against Winthrop.

One of the returning players is setter Morgan Hornaday, who was named to the All-Academic Team last season after posting a

3.97 GPA pursing a degree in exercise science. Hornaday also ranked first on the team in assists per set with 5.25 and second on the team in total assists with 310. Hinsey spent the last four seasons as head coach at the University of Mary Washington (UMW) in Fredericksburg, Va. In his 11 years of coaching experience, he has garnered multiple awards and built winning programs at the scholastic and college levels. In 2023, UMA closed its season with a record 30-5. In 2022, the team also won the Coast-toCoast Athletic Conference title and ended its season 26-8 in the third round of

the NCAA Tournament. In his first season at UMW, Hinsey led the team to the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference finals. Hamilton served as an assistant volleyball coach and recruiting coordinator at Millersville. Before that, he was head men’s and women’s volleyball coach at Elizabeth College where he had an overall coaching record of 69-25 with the women’s program posting the highest winning percentage (.734) in program history. He led the Blue Jays to three consecutive 20-win seasons, all including a berth in the postseason.

stuff offensively, but they have good athletes in every spot,” he noted. “We have to get ready to play and fix some things on both sides. This should be a very good game. Our kids are working hard and we’ll do the best we can.”

Herron said longtime assistant Shane Cole will

take over as head coach of the JV team, replacing longtime head coach Diron Bell who will be working with the varsity defensive backs.

After this week’s game the varsity Mountaineers will have a three-game home stand with Cox Mill coming to town on August 30 and Burns on September 6. After a bye week on Friday, Sept. 13 the Mountaineers will begin Big South Conference play at home against the Hunter Huss Huskies on September 20.

KM volleyball sweeps East Lincoln in opener

Kings Mountain High’s women’s volleyball team opened its season last week with a sweep of non-conference foe East Lincoln.

The varsity won 25-15, 25-19, 25-8 after the JVs prevailed 25-14, 25-11.

Cambell Benton led the JVs with 12 kills, five digs and six service points. Avery Cruise had nine serve receptions, 17 digs

By Loretta Cozart

People are often in a quandary about whether they have to stop for a school bus with its stop arm out. In North Carolina, the rules are pretty straightforward, but reviewing them each year is a good refresher course for drivers. You do not have to stop in two instances: on a four-lane highway WITH a turn lane or on a divided highway with a median. Here is what the law says:

• A roadway with four lanes or more with a center turning lane: When a school bus stops for passengers, only traffic following the bus must stop.

• Any divided highway with a median separation: When a school bus stops for passengers, only

and seven service points, Jillian Patton 13 assists and four digs and Elyn Phongsa three serve receptions, two digs, five kills and 16 service points.

Alexa Jones had 12 kills, nine serve receptions and 14 service points for the varsity. Camden Pasour dished out 27 assists to go with six service points, 13 digs and three kills. Denet

Houey had eight kills and four blocks and Ruby Osborne had six kills and four blocks.

The Lady Mountaineers were scheduled to go to Highland Monday and will host Maiden August 22 and Sun Valley August 27. They will begin Big South Conference play August 29 at home against the Ashbrook Green Wave.

Josiah Hill heading for a touchdown in Kings Mountain's win in Cleveland County Jamboree at Burns High School.

(Photo by Zach Smith)

MORGAN HORNADAY

traffic from both directions must stop.

cautions to protect our children's lives, just as you would your own. Once you develop good habits, especially while the weather is good and we have good daylight conditions, dealing with these issues will become second nature in the Fall and Winter.

Public review and comment period announced for child and adult care food program waiver

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Child and Family Well-Being’s Community Nutrition Services Section has posted a Prospective Waiver for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) for public review and comment. The waiver will streamline the process for NC CACFP to authorize alternative meal service methods in the At-Risk Afterschool component of CACFP when standard meal service operations are limited due to various circumstances, such as natural disasters or unscheduled major building repairs. The waiver, available online at www.ncdhhs. gov/2025-cacfp-public-notice-and-waiver-request/open, is open for public review and comment from Aug. 13 to Sept. 13, 2024. Public comment may be made through the following methods:

• Email: cacfptraining@ dhhs.nc.gov

• Fax: CACFP Program Manager at 919-870-4819

• Letter: c/o CACFP Program Manager, Community Nutrition Services Section, 1914 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1914 Section 12(1) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1760(1), provides the U.S. Department of Agriculture authority to waive requirements for state agencies or eligible service providers under certain circumstances.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal program administered and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (F.N.S.). The program ensures that eligible children and adults attending qualifying non-residential care facilities receive nutritious meals.

To accomplish this purpose, CACFP reimburses qualified caregivers for meals and supplements (snacks) served to participants. While the F.N.S.

develops the regulations and establishes the policies needed to conduct the program, state agencies are responsible for administering the program at the state level and assisting local sponsors.

More information on the N.C. Child and Adult Care Food Program is available on the NCDHHS Division of Child and Family Well-Being at https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/child-and-family-wellbeing.

Aiming Outdoorsmen Toward Christ

By Gary Miller

This time of year, the deer look really bad. They are thin, patchy, and are fighting ticks, other parasites, and disease. As you may know, this is the time of year when the population can be devastated. CWD and EHD are diseases that every hunter will look for during these hot months. The weakest will not survive. But here is what makes this a little confusing. This time of year, the abundance of food sources is perhaps the greatest. Yes, the acorns will begin falling soon, but the fruit trees, garden plants, and other browse are at their peak. Food is everywhere, and yet life is the most fragile. I really don’t know what to think about that. All over the world we see disease and death tied directly to starvation. We rarely see it tied to abundance. The only thing I can attribute to this contrast is the fact that not only does the good and best thrive in abundance, so does the bad and hurtful. It seems that times of plenty are not necessarily a sign of health. In the physical world that may be debated. In the spiritual world, it’s an objective truth. Over the years I have watched people suffer great loss. And while they have serious questions for God, and while they can even get mad at His inaction, most somehow cling to their faith. I have also watched the homeless and hungry look to the sky to thank God when the least blessing comes their way. It seems they too are quick to run to God when hurt, hunger, and heartache come their way. But when it comes to extreme blessings, most of us find a way to replace God with the wealth He has blessed us with. Especially when it comes to money. Money allows us to buy things. And the more money we have, the more things we can buy. And the more things we can buy, the easier it is to preoccupy ourselves. And while we are preoccupied, a disease is setting in that our possessions will not be able to heal. But hear this. It is not the fault of the blessing. God wants to give them to us. But it’s my fault if I don’t keep these blessings in their rightful place. Am I only warning the rich? No. I’m warning guys like me and you. The guys whose blessings are not in the form of yachts, but in the form of Bass Trackers. And whose ownership doesn’t include thousands of acres, but only a few. I’m warning me. I’m reminding myself that during times of abundance, I need to watch for the parasites. Because abundance can be a feeding ground for those things that want to kill my relationship with God.

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 21 years. He also speaks at wildgame dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. gary@outdoortruths.org

You must stop for a bus on a two-lane roadway: When a school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

You must stop for a bus on a four-lane roadway: When a school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

You must stop for a bus on a two-lane roadway with a center turning lane: When a school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

GARY MILLER

KM volleyball sweeps Highland, Maiden comes here

Thursday

Kings Mountain High’s volleyball team defeated Highland Monday and will be at home Thursday against Maiden High School.

The varsity won 19-25, 25-20, 25-19, 21-25, 15-5 after the JVs prevailed 2522, 25-18.

Camden Pasour had a strong overall effort for the varsity with 30 assists, five kills, 15 serve receptions, five digs and 10 service points.

London Brown had 15 kills, a block and four digs.

Denet Houey had 11 kills and seven blocks.

Ruby Osborne had eight kills, two blocks and two digs.

Abigail Hedgepath had 12 assists, a block, six digs and 18 service points.

The JVs were led by Caroline Lane with three kills and four blocks, Campbell Benton with nine kills and seven service points and Avery Cruise with seven serve receptions, 11 digs and 10 service points.

The Lady Mountaineers will be at home Thursday against Maiden High School.

PUBLIC NOTICE

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

THIS ACTION BROUGHT PURSUANT TO THE POWER AND AUTHORITY contained within that certain Deed of Trust executed and delivered by John Donald Bumgardner dated February 17, 2003, and recorded on February 21, 2003 in Book 1361 at Page 1898 in the Office of Register of Deeds of Cleveland County, North Carolina. As a result of a default in the obligations contained within the Promissory Note and Deed of Trust and the failure to carry out and perform the stipulation and agreements contained therein, the holder of the indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust made demand to have the default cured, which was not met. Therefore, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will place for sale that parcel of land, including improvements thereon, situated, lying and being in the City of Shelby, County of Cleveland, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described in the heretofore referenced Deed of trust. Said sale will be a public auction to the highest bidder for cash, at the usual place of sale at the Cleveland County Courthouse, Shelby, North Carolina, on September 4, 2024, at 11:30 AM.

Address of Property: 4011 Hamilton Rd, Shelby, NC 28152

Tax Parcel ID: 45533

Present Record Owners: John Donald Bumgardner

The terms of the sale are that the real property hereinbefore described will be sold for cash to the highest bidder. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. The successful bidder will be required to pay revenue stamps on the Trustee’s Deed, any Land Transfer Tax, and costs for recording the Trustee’s Deed.

The real property hereinabove described is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS” and will be sold subject to all superior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments and other encumbrances. Other conditions will be announced at the sale. The sale will be held open for ten (10) days for upset bids, as by law required. The sale will not confirm until there have been ten (10) consecutive days with no upset bids having been filed.

If for any reason the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property, or if the sale is set aside, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the bid deposit. Furthermore, if the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Trustee in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may declare the sale to be void and return the bid deposit. In either event, the purchaser will have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Trustee.

Additional notice required for Residential Real Property with Less Than Fifteen (15) Rental Units:

An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least ten (10 days, but no more than 90 day, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Posted: _____________________________________

Witness: ____________________________________

Assistant/Deputy clerk of Superior Court

Albertelli Law Partners North Carolina, P.A.,

Substitute Trustee

By: Calleesha Teel, Esq

Albertelli Law Partners North Carolina, P.A.

205 Regency Executive Park Drive Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28217

T: 704-970-0391

24-SP-145/23-009964

KMH (8/21/2024 & 8/28/2024)

Clover train mural restoration underway

A long-time fixture in Centennial Park, located on Main Street in Clover, SC, the Train Mural is undergoing renovation. The project is not yet finished, but the town of Clover featured a sneak peek on its Facebook (Meta) page: (https://www. facebook.com/TownofClover).

Reactions to the workin-progress were mixed. In comments added to the town’s post, many praised the work. In contrast, others were concerned about the apparent omission of key elements previously associated with the painting, including human figures standing beside the train and the names of families who purchased the surrounding Bradford Pear trees planted in Memorium. Other Facebook readers pointed out that a field of clover needs to be added under the water tower to complete the story behind the image.

Last September, Alicia Griffith, Clover Main Street Director, delved into the town’s storied past and ongoing renovation efforts during an interview with The Roaring Eagle, a monthly digital publication by the Clover School District and River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club.

Clover, once just a train stop between York, South Carolina, and Gastonia, North Carolina, began its journey in 1876 when the Chester and Lenoir Narrow Gauge Railroad laid its tracks. Steam engines routinely stopped here to replenish their water tanks from a 5,000-gallon reservoir. By 1887, the area evolved, sprouting homes and businesses, and officially became the town of Clover. But why the name "Clover"?

The town's name harks back to its railroad days. A vibrant clover patch flourished around the water

tower by the tracks, earning the affectionate nickname "Clover Patch" from train conductors. This natural moniker stuck, and the town embraced "Clover" as its official name, a legacy now immortalized in the mural.

Clover Centennial Park, located at Main and Kings Mountain Street, is a tribute to the town’s centennial, celebrated in 1987. The park features a mural depicting Clover’s origin as a railroad stop. A notable highlight within the park is the Centennial Time Capsule, buried on December 20, 1987, containing memorabilia from that year. It is

scheduled to be opened in 2037.

Exciting renovation plans are underway for Centennial Park. Alicia Griffith shared, “The suggested plans would include opening the space with seating, sunshades, and a possible mini stage complete with a selfie spot.” Wall planters are also part of the vision, aiming to enhance the park's beauty and create a welcoming community space. However, funding for some of these projects is still awaiting approval from the Town Council.

Travel Over the Rainbow to Beech Mountain, North Carolina, and celebrate Land of Oz’s annual Autumn at Oz Festival, one of the world’s largest Wonderful Wizard of Oz events this September.

If you’ve ever gone searching for your heart’s desire, look no further. Experience the magic of Oz during this three-weekend event where the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion are ready to perform for you on your journey to meet the Wizard! Keep a lookout for the Wicked Witch and her Winged Monkeys, plus other favorite characters from this classic story!

Visit the Gale farm in Kansas, experience the twister, meet Glinda in Munchkinland, and follow the real yellow brick road to Emerald City where the Wizard grants everyone’s’ wishes, right before your eyes!

During the first three weekends of September, Autumn at Oz opens its doors to the public to join in the festivities and im-

merse yourself in all things Oz. The dates are September 6 – 8, 13-15, and 20-22. Shop unique craft and memorabilia vendors, enjoy delicious varieties of food and beverages, get your face painted, and

watch live performances. Plus, there are plenty of photo-ops along the way including our Over the Rainbow Observation Deck, one mile high in the sky! This one-of-a-kind

event immerses you in the magical Land of Oz on the site of the original 1970s theme park, where the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true. Visit https://landofoznc. com/ for more information.

Ford Motor Co. and Mazda North American Operations have issued a “Do Not Drive” advisory for owners of certain vehicles equipped with non-desiccated Takata airbags. The warning, announced on August 13, affects over 457,000 vehicles that have not yet been repaired following several Takata airbag recalls.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) supports the advisory, urging owners to stop driving the affected vehicles immediately until the faulty airbags are repaired or replaced.

The advisory covers 374,290 Ford vehicles, including Lincolns and Mercurys, from 2004 through 2012 model years and 82,893 Mazda vehicles from model years 2003

through 2015. The vehicles are equipped with airbag inflators manufactured by Takata, which could explode in a crash after being exposed to heat and humidity, causing metal shrapnel to shoot into the car’s interior.

According to the NHTSA, at least 27 people have been killed by the airbag inflators in the U.S. among all affected cars and automakers, including at least 400 others who have allegedly been injured. The defective airbags have led to the most extensive series of automotive recalls in U.S. history, with 67 million inflators recalled by the NHTSA since 2019.

Owners of the affected vehicles can check if their car is part of the recall by entering their vehicle identification number or license

plate number on the Ford or Mazda website. Both automakers have assured that the airbags on vehicles affected by the recalls will be repaired or replaced for free.

Ford’s warning covers

374,290 model year 20042014 vehicles previously recalled under previous campaigns:

2005-2006 GT

Centennial Park train mural is going renovations. (Photo provided)

Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion. (Photo by Autumn at Oz)

Medicare drug prices to drop beginning January 1

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a significant achievement in negotiating lower prices for Medicare drugs. This historic agreement will reduce the prices of ten high-cost medications used to treat conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These negotiated drugs are some of the Medicare program's most expensive and frequently dispensed drugs.

The new prices will go into effect for people with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage beginning January 1, 2026, and are expected to save Medicare an estimated $6 billion

annually. For the first time in response to the Inflation Reduction Act, the historic law lowering health care costs, Medicare can negotiate the prices of prescription drugs. On August 15, The White House announced the results of months of negotiations between the government and pharmaceutical companies, including new, lower Medicare prices for ten blockbuster drugs.

The discounts range from 79% for the diabetes drug Januvia to 38% for the blood cancer drug Imbruvica. The announcement also highlighted a 76% cost decrease for Fiasp, Fiasp FlexTouch, Fiasp PenFill, No-

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 22nd of April, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of BILLY J. DEDMON (24 E 361), 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, Deborah L. Dedmon, Administratrix on or before the 31st of October, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 31st day of July, 2024.

Deborah L. Dedmon, Administratrix

Estate of Billy J. Dedmon

116 A Deer Brook Dr. Kings Mountain, NC 28086 Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14 & 21/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 24th of July, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of MELBA WATTERSON BOYLES (24 E 626), 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, Bruce Willard Boyles, Jr., Executor on or before the 7th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of August, 2024.

Bruce Willard Boyles, Jr., Executor

Estate of Melba Watterson Boyles 543 Coman Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (8/07, 14, 21 & 28/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 29th of July, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of ERIC ZAN WITHROW (24 E 589), 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, Brandon Jamar Withrow, Administrator on or before the 7th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of August, 2024.

Brandon Jamar Withrow, Administrator Estate of Eric Zan Withrow 318 Gun Club Road Bostic, NC 28018

KMH (8/07, 14, 21 & 28/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 23rd of July, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of SHAROD JEROME MITCHELL (24 E 624), 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, Bobbie Michelle Mitchell, Administratrix on or before the 7th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of August, 2024.

Bobbie Michelle Mitchell, Administratrix Estate of Sharod Jerome Mitchell 254 Peachtree Rd Apt. B. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/07, 14, 21 & 28/2024)

voLog, NovoLog FlexPen, and NovoLog PenFill. Other price reductions include Farxiga (68%), Enbrel (67%), Jardiance (66%), Stelara (66%), Xarelto (62%), Eliquis (56%), and Entresto (53%).

About nine million people with Medicare use at least one of the ten drugs selected for negotiation. People with Medicare prescription drug coverage

are expected to see aggregated estimated savings of $1.5 billion in their personal out-ofpocket costs in 2026. For more detailed information about the negotiated prices, please see the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Negotiated Prices Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/files/ document/fact-sheet-negotiated-prices-initial-price-applica-

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th of August, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of EDITH MARIE HUDSON WORTMAN; AKA, EDITH M. WORTMAN (24 E 629), 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, James Howard Wortman; aka, James H. Wortman, Executor on or before the 21st of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 21st day of August, 2024.

James Howard Wortman; aka, James H. Wortman, Executor Estate of Edith Marie Hudson Wortman; aka, Edith M. Wortman 5227 Fallston Rd Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (8/21, 28, 9/04 & 11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 24th of July, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of DOROTHY ANN MASK; AKA, DOROTHY A. MASK (24 E 612), 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, Kenneth Mobley, Executor on or before the 31st of October, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporsations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 31st day of July, 2024.

Kenneth Mobley, Executor Estate of Dorothy Ann Mask; aka, Dorothy A, Mask 2231 Ashley Lake Dr. Lewisville, NC 27023

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14 & 21/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 31st of July, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of ANICE T. WALKER (24 E 640), 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, Gary Walker, Administrator on or before the 7th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of August, 2024.

Gary Walker, Administrator Estate of Anice T. Walker 424 Bear Creek Road Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (8/07, 14, 21 & 28/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 24 E 606

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:

ELLA MAE WALDT, DECEASED

Having qualified on July 26, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Ella Mae Waldt, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Ella Mae Waldt to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Nichóle B. Greene, Greene Law Offices, PLLC, 806 North Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 7th day of November, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 7th day of August, 2024.

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

KMH (8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28/2024)

bility-year-2026.pdf.

“Americans pay too much for their prescription drugs. That makes today’s announcement historic. For the first time ever, Medicare negotiated directly with drug companies and the American people are better off for it,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Congressional budget estimators (Congressional Budget Office) predicted about $100 billion savings over ten years from drug negotiations and a $3.7 billion in the first year alone. Today, we’re announcing that in our first year of negotiations, we are saving

Medicare an estimated $6 billion, and Americans who pay out of pocket will be saving another $1.5 billion moving forward. Empowering Medicare to negotiate prices strengthens the program for generations to come and puts a check on skyrocketing drug prices.”

“CMS is proud to have negotiated drug prices for people with Medicare for the first time. These negotiations will not only lower the prices of critically important medications for cancer, diabetes, heart failure, and more but will also save billions of dollars,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita See DRUG, PAGE 5B

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK In the Matter of the Estate of: Betty M. Alexander, deceased. File No. 24 E 673

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Betty M. Alexander, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Betty M. Alexander to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Martha A. Bell, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 21st day of November, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 21st day of August, 2024.

Martha A. Bell, Executrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street Shelby, NC 28150.

KMH (8/21, 8/28, 9/04 & 9/11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of August, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of JON DAVID LEE (24 E 645), 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, Michelle Lee Barker, Executrix on or before the 14th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Michelle Lee Barker, Executrix Estate of Jon David Lee 408 Dunaway Drive Euless, TX 76040

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 24th of July, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of CHRISTOPHER ROBIN BLANTON (24 E 519), 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, Sherry Allen Blanton, Executrix on or before the 31st of October, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 31st day of July, 2024.

Sherry Allen Blanton, Executrix

Estate of Christopher Robin Blanton 339 Wilson Drive Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14 & 21/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 24th of July, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of EDWIN EUGENE PEELER (23 E 109), 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, Todd Eugene Peeler, Executor on or before the 31st of October, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 31st day of July, 2024.

Todd Eugene Peeler, Executor Estate of Edwin Eugene Peeler 113 Benjamin Court Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14 & 21/2024)

DRUG

From Page 4B

Brooks-LaSure. “Medicare drug price negotiation and the lower prices announced today demonstrate the commitment of CMS and the Biden-Harris Administration to lower health

care and prescription drug costs for Americans. We made a promise to the American people, and today, we are thrilled to share that we have fulfilled that promise.”

As a hypothetical example, a senior with Medicare who takes Stelara pays a 25% coin-

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: MARGARET R. BINGHAM AKA MARGARET RUDISILL BINGHAM, deceased. File No. 24 E 653

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Margaret R. Bingham AKA Margaret Rudisill Bingham, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Margaret R. Bingham AKA Margaret Rudisill Bingham to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Samuel Charles Bingham, 845 Baber Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139, on or before the 14th day of November, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Samuel Charles Bingham, Executor of the Estate of Margaret R. Bingham AKA Margaret Rudisill Bingham

Samuel Charles Bingham 845 Baber Rd. Rutherfordton, NC 28139

KMH (8/14, 8/21, 8/28 & 9/4/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of August, 2024 as Co-Executrix and Co-Executor of the Estate of EDWIN REID TILLMAN, SR.; AKA, EDWIN R. TILLMAN. (24 E 537), 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, Teresa T. McCartney, Co-Executrix and/or Edwin R. Tillman, Jr., Co-Executor on or before the 14th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Teresa T. McCartney, Co-Executrix

Estate of Edwin Reid Tillman, Sr.; aka, Edwin R. Tillman 3316 Crawley Rd. Shelby, NC 28150

And/or

Edwin R. Tillman, Jr., Co-Executor

Estate of Edwin Reid Tillman, Sr.; aka, Edwin R. Tillman 403 Yorkfield Dr. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CLEVELAND FILE NO.: 24 E 631

Having qualified as Administrator of the estate of SUZANNE ROYSTER; AKA, SUZANNE CAMPBELL ROYSTER;AKA, SUZANNE C. ROYSTER, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the said decedent to exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before the 14th day of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate are notified to make immediate payment. This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Dustin A. Miller, Administrator 2415 Cherryville Rd., Suite 2 Cherryville, NC 28021

Attorney: Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St., Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

In the Matter of the Estate of:

REID ELLIOTT MILLSON, deceased. File No. 24 E 322

Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Reid Elliott Millson, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Reid Elliott Millson to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Shari B. Millson, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 14th day of November, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Shari B. Millson, Executrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 8/21, 8/28 & 9/4/2024)

surance on the drug, which may amount to about $3,400 today for a 30-day supply. When the negotiated price goes into effect in 2026, that same 25% coinsurance would cost the beneficiary about $1,100 before the person reaches the catastrophic cap, after which the beneficiary will pay no more out of pocket on their prescription drugs. A beneficiary’s actual costs will depend on their plan’s benefit design.

“CMS negotiated in good faith on behalf of the millions of people who rely on these ten drugs for their health and well-being. The new negotiated prices will bring much-needed financial relief, affordability, and access,” said Meena Seshamani, MD, PhD, CMS Deputy Administrator and Director of the Center for Medicare. “Throughout the process, we remained true to our commitment to be thoughtful and

transparent, meeting publicly with patients, providers, health plans, pharmacies, drug companies, and others to help inform the process. We will continue to do so for future cycles. Our team is actively working on the next cycle of negotiations where we will combine what we have learned from this first cycle and apply it in negotiating prices for the next round of up to 15 selected drugs.”

A year ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), announced the first ten drugs covered under Medicare Part D selected for negotiation. The negotiations with participating drug companies will occur in 2023 and 2024, and any negotiated prices will become effective in 2026. Medicare enrollees taking the ten drugs covered under Part D selected for negotiation

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administratrix over the Estate of RAY MCNEIL BRIDGES, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before November 14th, 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

23-E-697

Rebecca Keever Bridges, Administratrix c/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 3rd day of May as Administratrix of the Estate of WANDA MAE MIMS (24 E 22), 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, Shana Runge, Administratrix on or before the 31st of October 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 3lst day of July, 2024.

Shana Runge, Administratrix

Estate of Wanda Mae Mims

207 Old Stagecoach Dr. Lawndale, NC 28090

Counseling for the Estate McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14, & 21/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 18h day of June as Administratrix of the Estate of JEFFERY DARRELL CRISP, SR. (24 E 334), 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, Robin Crisp; aka, Robin Walker Crisp, Administratrix on or before the 31st of October 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 3lst day of July, 2024.

Robin Crisp; aka, Robin Walker Crisp, Administratrix

Estate of Jeffery Darrell Crisp, Sr. 2137 Brookforest Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Counseling McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/31, 8/07, 14, & 21/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 17th of July, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of DARRYL D. CRAWFORD (24 E 55), 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, Beth H. Crawford, Executrix on or before the 7th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of August, 2024.

Beth H. Crawford, Executrix

Estate of Darryl D. Crawford

153 Dunes Drive

Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Counseling for the Estate J. Charles Hoyle

207 Hoyle Road

Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (8/07, 14, 21 & 28/2024)

paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2022 for these drugs.

“For far too long, pharmaceutical companies have made record profits while American families were saddled with record prices and unable to afford life-saving prescription drugs. But thanks to the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, we are closer to reaching President Biden’s goal of increasing availability and lowering prescription drug costs for all Americans,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra at the time.

“Although drug companies are attempting to block Medicare from being able to negotiate for better drug prices, we will not be deterred.”

Alongside other provisions in the new law that increase the affordability of health care and prescription drugs, allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices will strengthen the program’s ability to serve people with Medicare now and for future generations. The negotiation process will consider the selected drug’s clinical benefit, the extent to which it fulfills an unmet medical need, and its impact on people who rely on Medicare, among other considerations, such as costs associated with research

and development as well as production and distribution for selected drugs. As a result of negotiations, people with Medicare will have access to innovative, life-saving treatments at lower costs to Medicare. These selected drugs accounted for $50.5 billion in total Part D gross covered prescription drug costs, or about 20% of total Part D gross covered prescription drug costs between June 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023, which is the time period used to determine which drugs were eligible for negotiation. CMS will publish any agreed-upon negotiated prices for the selected drugs by September 1, 2024; those prices will come into effect starting January 1, 2026. In future years, CMS will select for negotiation up to 15 more drugs covered under Part D for 2027, up to 15 more drugs for 2028 (including drugs covered under Part B and Part D), and up to 20 more medications for each year after that, as outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act. More information on the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program is available at https://www. cms.gov/inflation-reduction-act-and-medicare/medicare-drug-price-negotiation.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix over the Estate of PATRICIA ANN ROBBS, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before November 14th, 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

24-E-564

Wanda P. Smith, Executrix c/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of August, 2024 as Co-Executrix and Co-Executor of the Estate of MARY CATHERINE TILLMAN; AKA, CATHERINE G. TILLMAN (24 E 536), 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, Teresa T. McCartney, Co-Executrix and/or Edwin R. Tillman, Jr., Co-Executor on or before the 14th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Teresa T. McCartney, Co-Executrix

Estate of Mary Catherine Tillman; aka, Catherine G. Tillman 3316 Crawley Rd. Shelby, NC 28150

And/or

Edwin R. Tillman, Jr., Co-Executor

Estate of Mary Catherine Tillman; aka, Catherine G. Tillman 403 Yorkfield Dr. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

For Lease of Municipally-Owned Property NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council for the City of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 160A-272, has stated their intentions of entering into a Lease with the Kings Plush, Inc. dba STI, as declared by Resolution 24-19 adopted at their regular work session of Thursday, August 8, 2024. The property being considered for a Lease is described as follows:

1. Property Location: The City of Kings Mountain is presently the owner of fiber optic cabling installed in the City of Kings Mountain.

2. Lease Payments and Term: That for the leasing of the dark unused surplus fiber strands, the rental rate will be approximately $62.13 per month. The term of the lease will be five (5) years.

A full and complete copy of the proposed Lease will be considered by City Council at the regular meeting of Tuesday, September 24, 2024 and is on display at the office of the City Clerk for the City of Kings Mountain, located at City Hall, 101 West Gold Street, Kings Mountain, NC.

Karen Tucker City Clerk

KMH (8/21/2024)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SALE-STORAGE UNITS

CONTENTS. Auction sell at 7799 Hwy 10 W, Vale, on Sept.12th at 1 pm. Registration 10:30 am -12(noon). Must pay cash. Must remove contents that day.

WANTED DOVE FIELD TO HUNT on Labor Day Weekend for three people. Willing to pay. 828-395-0758.

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 704-2970103 CAR & TRUCK DETAILING by Ronnie Henderson. Call for Pricing. Reasonable Rates! (704) 691-5030

HAPPY 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Happy Golden Anniversary Mom and Dad, From your Daughter and Son. We Love You! 867-5309 TheBestParentsEver@BeckyandDan.com

EMPLOYMENT

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

PIANO/ORGAN PLAYER. NEW SALEM CHURCH OF SHELBY needs piano/organ player 9:30am to 10:30am Sunday mornings for non-denominational church. Play 3 hymns and opening and closing music (chosen by church). For info call James at 704-482-6319 (704) 482-6319 jamesejohnson10@yahoo. com

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

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

RUST DOCTOR: Cab Corners, Rockers, Floor Pans, Trunks. Welding Repair: Doors, beds, Windshield frame, etc. Any other rust spots. 828-919-0368.

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

KARLENA RADFORD-4

SEASONS HOMES and Land. Looking to buy or sell your property in Rutherford, Polk, or Cleveland counties? Call Karlena at 4 Seasons Homes and Land! (828) 7160296 karlena@4seasonshomesand land.com

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

CARETAKER LOOKING TO CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONE. Bathing, feeding, light cooking, light housekeeping, run errands. 20 years experience. Cleveland County area. 980-582-5924. PRESSURE WASHING, MULCHING, LANDSCAPING, BUSHES TRIMMED, DECKS RESTORED & MUCH MORE! 30 Years Experience. Free Estimates! Call (704) 692-4449

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

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

SCREEN MAKING & REPAIR. See our experts when you have Screen Issues. (704) 487-5263

D&S LAWN CARE & HAULING. Complete lawn care services. Deliver gravel, dirt, mulch, sand, debris removal. Residential and commercial. Serving Rutherford & Polk County for 20+ years. Free estimates. 828-582-0314. PAINTING, ROOFING, TILE FLOORS, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Ask for Harold or Jim 828-429-7511.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. No job too small. Have references. Construction, landscaping, etc. Jack of all trades! 40 plus years of experience. 828375-5773.

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

BENEFIT INDOOR YARD

SALE. The GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club is holding an indoor yard sale on Saturday, August 24th from 7:00 a.m. until noon. Located at 108 East Mountain Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086, in the downstairs dining hall. Home goods, clothing, toys and decor will be available. All proceeds are for the annual Sallie Southall Scholarship awarded each year to a Kings Mountain senior. Contact the club about rentals or membership Kingsmountainwc@ gmail.com.

COMMUNITY WIDE YARD

SALE at # 7 Volunteer Fire Department Parking Lot in Lattimore. Sat., Aug 24, 2024 from 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Spots available for $10 each. Bring your own table. Vendors Welcome! To secure your spot contact Randi Powell at 704473-3339

HUGE YARD & PLANT

SALE. Fri., Aug 23rd & Sat, Aug 24th. 8 am-Until. (Both days). Lots of new & used stuff. Something for everyone. 7012 Richmond Dr, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

FAMILY YARD SALE FRI.SAT. Aug. 30-31, 8am-?. Tools, Furniture, Cast Iron, Clothes, Toys & & MUCH MORE. CLARK SUPPLY, 2222 Hoey Church Road, Shelby, NC 28152

MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE. Sat., Aug. 31st, 2024 from 7:00 AM - ? Multi Family yard sale. Everything must go. 625 Old Charles Road, Shelby, NC 28152

FOR SALE

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

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

FOR SALE

ONE GRAVE PLOT. Forest Lawn West Veteran Section, Charlotte, NC. 1/2 price -$2,300. I will pay $295 transfer fee. 704-240-8101.

STAIRMASTER FOR SALE. $400. Hardly used. 704-4779664.

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

MICROTECH KNIVES ON SALE! We have 1 OZ. SILVER BARS & ROUNDS Available (While Supplies Last)* Plus: More

KNIVES•KNIVES•KNIVES at Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

METAL ROOFING FOR SALE INSTOCK! Deliveries Twice A Week. One Piece or the Whole Roof. J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 2455895

ITEMS FOR SALE. Whirlpool Washer and KitchenAid Dryer-$150 for the pair. Also, Antique Pump Organ-$250 obo. Call (704) 472-7974

KING SUITE, SLED BED. 9 drawer dresser with mirror, 6 drawer men’s dresser, 2 marble top bedside tables. $2,000. 828-289-5184. no calls before 8AM.

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

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

STORAGE BUILDINGS

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

GE HEAVY DUTY LARGE CAPACITY washer with matching dryer. Like new. $375. Will deliver. Please call 828-289-3371.

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

NEW-USED TRAILERS PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR ALL TYPES OF TRAILERS. 1500 Square Feet of Parts, Axles, Tires, Lights, Gates, Ramps, etc. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, (828) 245-5895

FOR SALE

XPLORER

XPEDITION

HUNTING BOW. 30 in axle to axle, 60 lb draw weight, 27-30 in draw length, wrist sling (864) 490-6221 hhmoorhead@gmail.com

TINY HOUSE / OFFICE UNIT. 12’ X 28’. Small Kitchen, 1/2 Bath, TV on Wall, Heat & Air. $35,900. Deliver & Blocked. “Financing Available”. J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City. (828) 245-5895

TWO CEMETERY PLOTS in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery, spaces 1 & 2, lot 135, Beatitudes section. $2500. for both. 864-4149940.

HUBCAPS FOR 05 CHEVY MALIBU. 15 inch. Used, good condition, clean. 3 available. $25.00 each plus shipping or 3 for $60.00. Accept Paypal. mae7823@gmail.com

CAR PARTS FOR SALE.

1998-2003 Chevy S10 tailgate & rear bumper-$40 each. 1998-2012 Chevy Silverado aluminum radiator & dual electrical fan. Best offer. Misc. Chevy Silverado parts.704-600-5033.

74 BYPASS IS FOR SALE. Visit www.74ByPass.com to get a price within hours. NC4Ever@USA.com

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

ONE ACRE LOT FOR SALE. on Shelby Lawndale Road. Call 828-395-3928 for more details.

TRUMP VANCE MAGNETS AND BUTTONS. Visit www. NC4Ever.com to see pics of TRUMP VANCE Magnets and Buttons for sale. NC4Ever@ USA.com

WANT TO BUY

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

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

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

I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC

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

WANT TO BUY SHIHTZU PUPPY!!! Prefer very young puppy. Text 828-748-2241.

FARM & GARDEN

GRASSHOPPER MOWER FOR SALE. 725D Diesel, 61” deck front mount with grass pickup & hopper. Many extra parts/supplies. $3,850. 704472-6226.

BOATS

2007 BENTLEY PONTOON 24’ 90HP motor, 24 foot Wesco trailer. 828-245-1660 or 828-429-0559. Call for price.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FULL BLOODED MINI

SCHNAUZER PUPPIES. Beautiful full blooded Mini Schnazuers. UTD on shots, tails docked, well socialized ready to go to their forever home. Text or call 704-6166273. More pictures can be seen on FB Lisa’s Mini Schnauzers. (704) 616-6273 lpastore3@yahoo.com

BLUE HEELER / LABRADOODLE PUPPIES. Buy one for $100 or two for $75 each. Four and half months old. No Sunday calls. 828-829-3476.

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. Big & beautiful, were born to AKC registered Magnus vom Walls (100lbs) & Mishka (88lbs). Magnus is 5th in the US Seiger show and is the off spring of Negus de Marka IGP3. 4 males & 2 females available July 19. Puppies come with shots, Vet health screening, packet to include registration. 828-292-3001, 828-455-9988 rsutak26@ hotmail.com (828) 292-3001 rsutak26@hotmail.com

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

BEYOND CUTE. Fuzzy & smooth coat, male/female small size 3 shots, microchip $250-$600 (864) 623-8803 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail. com

FREE KITTENS TO GOOD HOME. 19 weeks old, 2 male, all black. Must bring cat carrier. 704-435-3970. (704) 4353970

GERMAN SHEPHERD FOR SALE. 4 years old, male, full blooded, all shots, needs to be rehomed. Rehome for $150. 828-755-1038.

CHIWEENIE PUPPIES. 3 males, 12 weeks old. 1 female Chihuahua, 15 weeks, $350 each. Chihuahua mix male, 1 year old. $75. 704-466-5790.

MINI SCHNAUZER AVAILABLE. Beautiful mini Schnauzer puppies available 8/15. Will have UTD shot, have been dewormed and vet checked. Call or text for info. (704) 616-6273 lpastore3@ yahoo.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

BELGIUM MALINOIS PUPPIES. 6 week old Belgium malinois puppies need forever homes. Text me for more information 252 259 2490. (252) 259-2490 charorrin@gmail. com

AKC MINI SCHNAUZER FOR SALE. 12 weeks old, calm & loving. $400. 704-915-0004.

REGISTERED MINIATURE POODLE PUPPIES. Chocolate-3 males, Chocolate & White, Parti-Male, $700. Ready Labor Day. 704-6921185.

FREE TO GOOD HOMES. Pit puppies. Some Red, some Blue. Had first shots & wormed. Text me at 704-3125510. I’ll call back.

GORGEOUS MINI GOLDENDOODLE PUPPIES. Raised with children. Expected to get around 20 lbs. Vet checked & UTD on shots & wormings. Delivery available. (724) 549-4771 branludw@ aol.com

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

MOTHER CAT SPAYED, SHOTS UTD. Also 18 week old kitten. Free to good home. (704) 562-0370

HENS FOR SALE. 4 Types - Brahma, Ameraucana, Red Producer & Cochins $30 each. Call (828) 289-7719 GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES CKC registered. Located in Kings Mountain, NC. Dad is AKC/CKC registered. Mom is CKC registered. Born 6/19/2024. Sables, Black/ Tans, and Solid Blacks. Dewormed at 2, 4, & 6 weeks and puppy vaccines at 6 weeks. Both Mom and Dad are on site and have been DNA tested through Embark $900 Please call or text (704) 466-2796 CKC BOSTON TERRIERS. 1 male and 1 female born 5/20/24. Vet checked and vaccinations current.$600 (980) 389-3747 jbrbsmith18@ gmail.com

CAMPERS

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY DUPLEX, 112 BOWMAN STREET, Shelby, NC. 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $675, Deposit $675, App Fee $25 per Adult. 704-412-4180.

2009 Yamaha VStar 1300CC, new tires & battery, asking $5,500. 828-289-8943

1979 HARLEY DAVIDSON FXR 80. This Classic Motorcycle is Practically All Original! It Runs Great!. Only $7900. MUST SEE! Call (704) 487-7894

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th of August, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of THOMAS DEAN ALEXANDER (24 E 664), 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, Charles Thomas Alexander, Administrator on or before the 21st of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 21st day of August, 2024.

Charles Thomas Alexander, Administrator Estate of Thomas Dean Alexander PO Box 339 Earl, NC 28038 Or 109 Holden Dr. Grover, NC 28073

KMH (8/21, 28, 9/04 & 11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

In the Matter of the Estate of: Doris Horner Hamrick 23 E 539

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Doris Horner Hamrick of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Doris Horner Hamrick to present them to the undersigned by October 31, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 31st day of July, 2024.

Paula Hamrick Jones 5103 Circle Dr. Shelby, NC 28152

Executor of the Estate of Doris Horner Hamrick

John V. Schweppe, III

THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

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

KMH (7/31, 8/7, 8/14 & 8/21/24)

LAUREL HILL APARTMENTS LOCATED IN SHELBY NC. Is currently accepting applications for our 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes. Rent is based on income (and even some expenses are deducted). Call or visit today! 1526 Eaves Road, Shelby, NC or call for more information. Equal Housing Opportunity. (704) 487-1114

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

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on 6th of August 2024 as Executor of the Estate of Yvonne McGinnis Rollins (24 E 545), 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 Wayne W. Rollins: AKA, Wayne Whitely Rollins, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before November 21, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 21st day of August, 2024.

Wayne W. Rollins; AKA, Wayne Whitely Rollins

Executor of the Estate of Yvonne McGinnis Rollins

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (8/21/2024, 8/28/2024, 9/4/2024 and 9/11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 24-E-494

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS E. WALTERS

EXECUTRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on 5th day of August, 2024 as Exec-

utrix of the Estate of Thomas E. Walters, 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 Executrix on or before the 14th of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment.

This the 14th day of August, 2024.

Thomas W. Martin, Jr. FLOWERS & MARTIN, P.A. 439 Neisler St. Shelby, NC 28152

Recca G. Bingham

Executrix of the Estate of Thomas E. Waters

311-2 Pinkney St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/14, 21, 28 & 9/04/2024)

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY FOR RENT IN KINGS MOUNTAIN. Mobile Home on 2 acres private lot. NO PETS. $1200 deposit $300 weekly. 704-466-9984 for details. FOR RENT, KINGS MTN. Mobile Home on private lot, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. $1000 deposit, $250 week. NO PETS. Background & Credit Check required. (704) 466-9984

135-22 WIGGINS LANES, KINGS MTN, NC. Singlewide. 3 bedroom 2 bathrooms. Rent $1375, Deposit $1375, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-2144180. 1321-A SOUTH LAFAYETTE STREET. Shelby, NC. Apartment. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $625, Deposit $625, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-2144180.

1624 SOUTH POST ROAD. Shelby, NC. Singlewide, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom Rent $875, Deposit $875. App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

116 KENTBURY DRIVE, GROVER NORTH CAROLINA. Singlewide. 2 bedroom, 1.5 bedroom. Rent $925, Deposit $925, App Fee, $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

107-2 OAK DRIVE, LAWNDALE, NC. DUPLEX, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $975, Deposit $975, App Fee, $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

135-4 WIGGINS LANE KINGS MTN. NC. Singlewide, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom. Rent $1375, Deposit $1375, App Fee $ 25 per adult. 704-2144180.

LINCOLN

898-5208., (704) 435-2542 awb311@aol.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 20 E 541

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ISSIE USSERY, DECEASED

Having qualified on August 8, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of Issie Ussery, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Issie Ussery to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Warren Ussery, c/o Nichóle B. Greene, Greene Law Offices, PLLC, 806 North Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 20th day of November, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 21st day of August 2024.

Warren Ussery, Administrator of the Estate c/o Nichóle B. Greene Greene Law Offices, PLLC 806 North Lafayette Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11/2024)

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 the City of Kings Mountain Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).

The hearing will take place at City Hall, 101 W. Gold Street, Kings Mountain, North Carolina in Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2024 during the regularly scheduled City Council Work Shop meeting. Proposed new amendments to the UDO include:

• An amendment to add Commercial Test Kitchens as a use in Commercial and Industrial zoning districts

• An amendment to add Concrete Batch Plants as a use in the Heavy Industrial zoning district

The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Opportunity for public input will be offered during the public hearing portion of the meeting. For additional information regarding the proposed changes, please contact Development Services at 704-734-4595.

KMH (8/21 & 8/28/2024)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

A BARGAIN WORD SEARCH

Dear Savvy Senior, Can I stop my Social Security retirement benefits and restart them later to get a bigger payment? I recently got a nice unexpected inheritance, so don’t need the money from Social Security right now. If possible, I would like to suspend my benefits and restart them at age 70. Do-over Dan

Dear Dan,

Yes, there are actually two different strategies that allow Social Security beneficiaries to undo their claiming decision. But to be eligible, there are certain conditions you’ll have to meet. Here’s what you should know. Withdrawal Benefits

If you are in your first year of collecting retirement benefits, you can apply to Social Security for a “withdrawal of benefits.” Social Security will let you withdraw your original application for retirement benefits, but it must be within 12 months of the date you first claimed your benefits.

If you opt for a withdrawal, Social Security will treat it as if you never applied for benefits in the first place. But

there’s a catch. You’ll have to repay every dollar you’ve received, including those of any family members who have been collecting benefits on your earnings record, such as a spouse or minor child, along with any money that was withheld from your Social Security payments – for example, to pay your Medicare premiums.

You can only withdraw your application for Social Security benefits once, but you can apply for benefits again later when the monthly amount would be larger.

To withdrawal your benefits, fill out Social Security form SSA-521 (see ssa.gov/forms/ssa-521.pdf) and send the completed form to your local Social Security office.

If you change your mind, you have 60 days from the date Social Security approves your withdrawal to cancel the request. Suspend Benefits

If, however, you miss the 12-month window, or if repaying your Social Security benefits is not financially feasible, there is another do-over option, but you’ll need to be full retirement age or older to be eligible.

By JIM MILLER Editor

Full retirement age is 66 and 6 months for those born in 1957, but it rises in two-month increments every birth year to age 67 for those born in 1960 and later. You can find your full retirement age at SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/ planner/ageincrease.html.

At that point, you can “suspend” your Social Security benefit and the good news is you don’t have to repay anything. But the bad news is your monthly Social Security benefits stop and so do those of any dependent family members (except a divorced spouse). During the suspension, you will also accrue delayed retirement credits, which will increase your monthly retirement benefit by two-thirds of 1 percent for each suspended month (or 8 percent for each suspended year) up until age 70.

Suspended benefits would automatically resume at 70, or you could choose to resume Social Security benefits earlier, but you’d only receive delayed retirement credits for the period when benefits were suspended.

You can request a Social Security suspension over the phone (800-722-

1213), in writing or in person at your local Social Security office. The suspension would begin the month after you make the request.

Also note that if you’re enrolled in Medicare, there’s another consequence of withdrawing or suspending your benefits.

Normally, Medicare Part B premiums ($174.70 per month in 2024 for most beneficiaries) are deducted directly from monthly Social Security payments.

If you withdrawal or suspend your benefits and you’re enrolled in Medicare Part B, you’ll start receiving a quarterly bill from Medicare. You’ll have the option of paying electronically or by mail. Or you can sign up for Medicare’s Easy Pay, which automatically deducts your premium payments from your savings or checking account each month.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit

Jim Miller is a contributor to the

day show and author of “The