KMHS FFA pepper project celebrates huge harvest
The pepper project began at KMHS’ FFA last February by inviting
to talk about different types of advertising for agricultural commodities and how to start a business.
After connecting with Kings Mountain Agriculture students, Shelby Spice reached out and asked if there was a way for students to participate in hot sauce production by growing a variety of peppers called Puma Peppers. The Puma pepper is
a hot pepper similar to a habanero that changes to a purple and orange shade when ready to harvest.
Students started seeds during horticulture classes, spending each day watering and transplanting plants into larger pots until they were old enough to be transplanted outside in the garden beside the school.
With help from Rhodesdale Farm, the land was tilled and prepped for the Puma Peppers. Around 150 peppers were planted in the garden in late May and have just now begun changing colors for harvesting since school started back in mid-August.
With the peppers harvested, Shelby Spice has released its new locally sourced and organically grown small-batch hot sauce, “Fang.” It is all made from Puma Pepper and was grown by the agriculture students at Kings Mountain High School.
As noted on the FANG label, “Among the most sunning hybrid peppers ever developed, the puma pepper is a delight from beginning to end. With a sweet and herbal flavor, this hot sauce is sure to rip your face off. Bite down and hold on for the ride. This is a hot sauce made for those who ask for more.”
By Loretta Cozart
An item directing the mayor to renew City Manager Jim Palenick’s, contract was removed from the city council’s agenda after it had been published as a discussion item the week before.
The City of Kings Mountain published the agenda for the regular city council meeting on August 22.
Item H included: Motion to adopt and authorize the mayor to enter into an employment agreement with the City Manager.
The proposed city manager’s contract included a salary of $189,305 and other benefits provided to all city employees. Additionally, the city manager would receive a $500 car allowance, four weeks of vacation, and a merit and performance package as part of his compensation, which read:
“That the merit bonus payable to the Manager
shall be one fourth of 1% of cash payments paid to the City, during the term of this amended agreement. The city shall pay that amount within 90 days of receipt of a cash payment to the City by the Albemarle Corporation. That additionally all land donated to the City by the Albemarle Corporation, during the term of this Amended Agreement, which may be suitable for development by the City shall be appraised, and that the Manager shall receive a merit bonus of one fourth of 1% of the appraised values. For clarity, real estate deemed developable must not be constrained by conservation, utility, wetland easements or any other setasides which may render the real estate undevelopable.”
Item H had been removed from the agenda by Friday morning, and a revised agenda was published.
During the Citizen Recognition portion of the meeting on August 27, Kings Mountain Business owner Jimbo Thompson addressed the city council, saying, “I think it's imperative that the citizens
of Kings Mountain know what's going on and their council’s involvement. It is of most importance that the city manager serves at the council's pleasure. However, I don't think this is the case.
“According to the council members, none of them, nor the mayor, have ever sat in on any negotiations between the city and Albemarle. That means our city manager negotiates on behalf of the citizens of Kings Mountain, with no oversight.
“So last week, when the city published this night's agenda, there was an item that's no longer on there. I read the proposed contract language, as many others have. I was taken aback and received numerous calls from the business leaders in the city. An egregious contract asking to take funds from the citizens of Kings Mountain for his own personal gain struck very hard,” he continued.
“Not only did he (the city manager) ask for a percentage of these funds, but he also asked the city that any land donated be
See CONTRACT, Page 5A
By Loretta Cozart
On Friday, August 30, the City of Kings Mountain called a special meeting on September 3, to consider dissolving the Kings Mountain Housing Authority and transferring its powers, duties, and responsibilities to the Kings Mountain Redevelopment Commission.
By Loretta Cozart
space limitations, only one parent and one North School student can
The Herald went to print before the meeting was held, so the outcome will be shared in the next edition.
During that 4 p.m. meeting last Tuesday, city council discussed adopting a resolution appointing members to the Kings Mountain Redevelopment Commission with overlapping terms and appointing an Interim Executive Director who will be an employee of the Kings Mountain Redevelopment Commission.
The N.C. Department of Information Technology’s (NCDIT) 911 Board awarded $21.028 million in grants statewide at its Aug. 23 meeting to benefit 14 public safety answering points (PSAPs) handling 911 calls on behalf of North Carolina’s communities.
Cleveland County received a $371,769.65 grant for a 911 facility improvement project.
During the Boot Camp, each teacher presents curriculum information to help you and your child during the school year.
After the meeting, the parent and student will receive one Chick-fil-A sandwich. To register, visit North Elementary School’s Facebook page and print a ticket to return to your student’s teacher.
“Public safety answering points perform life-saving work across our state,” said N.C. 911 Board Chair Jim Weaver, state chief information officer and Secretary and State Chief Information Officer of the N.C. Department of Information Technology. “The N.C. 911 Board is proud to provide grant funding for facility and equipment upgrades that will help PSAPs continue to carry out their critical mission.”
Additional grant awards include:
• Alamance County Central Communications –$6,155,711.26 for 911 services facility project
• Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office – $719,765.07 for AXS radio console mi-
gration
• Caldwell County 911 Communications–$2,659,312.07 for 911 and emergency services facility project
• Jones-Lenoir Emergency Communications Center– $607,200 for APX consolettes & MCD5000 desksets
• McDowell County 911 – $116,230.63 for console/ radio replacement project
• Pamlico County Sheriff Communications –$373,258.79 for equipment for new Pamlico County PSAP
• Pasquotank-Camden Central Communications
– $1,188,203.58 for equipment upgrades
• Perquimans-Gates 911 Communications –$4,831,481.00 for 911 center expansion project
• Person County PSAP –$255,740.57 for radio console replacement
• Pitt County 911 Communications –$640,893.68 for Motorola Command Central Axis Radio Console
• Scotland County Emergency Communications–$17,250.00 for radio console expansion project
• Stanly County
911 Communications–$2,414,424.11 911 for emergency services facility project
•Washington County –$677,407.50 for emergency management training operations center
“The N.C. 911 Board is committed to supporting our state’s PSAPs through grants and other efforts,” said L.V. Pokey Harris, executive director of the N.C. 911 Board. “We will continue to partner with local PSAPS to ensure that our state’s emergency responders are well-equipped to help callers quickly reach the services they need.”
PSAPs will receive official notification of the award of grant funds for the FY2025 cycle within the next two weeks. The application period for the FY2026 PSAP grants will start in spring 2025. Once it is underway, applications and instructions will be available on the N.C. 911 Board’s Grants web page at https:// it.nc.gov/about/boards-commissions/nc-911-board/ nc-board-911-grants-legislation-policies.
JIM PALENICK City Manager
By Alexys Padgett, FFA student contributor
Duncan Blunt, owner of the local hot sauce brand Shelby Spice,
North Elementary School in Kings Mountain will hold their Monster Boot Camp on Monday, September 9, at 5 p.m. at 900 Ramseur Street. Due to
attend the event.
FFA students currently involved in the FANG hot sauce project at KMHS. See more photos on page 3A. Photo by FFA
Cynthia “Cindy” Jane Green Brown
KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Cynthia “Cindy” Jane Green Brown, 72, of Kings Mountain, NC, defeated Parkinson’s disease and gained a new body when she entered heaven on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at her home.
Born December 25, 1951 in Cleveland County, North Carolina, she was daughter of the late Lawrence Lyndell and Martha Wilson Green. She was also preceded in death by her infant son, Shannon Micheal Brown, brothers Wesley “Dink” Green, Ken Green, and Lawrence Green. Cindy graduated from Limestone University in Gaffney, South Carolina with a B.A. in Psychology. She served as a social worker with Cleveland Mental Health for over
Howard Carlo Swofford
NEWTON, NC – Howard Carlo Swofford formerly of Kings Mountain went home to be with his Lord and Savior August 31, 2024 where he resided at Terra Bella of Newton, NC.
He was born April 4, 1926 to Robert and Ethel Swofford 98 years ago in Hollis, NC. At three years of age, his family moved to Brooke Park, MN where he grew up on a farm and attended a one room schoolhouse.
He joined the United States Navy at 18 serving aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Shangri-La during World War II. He moved with his parents and younger brother back to NC and to Kings Mountain in 1947. Here, he was a farmer raising chickens and milking dairy cows. He worked at Margrace Mill, Sterchi Furniture, and finally retiring from J.E. Herndon and Co. He was a “Mister Fix-it” man who could tackle any repair problem including building three chicken houses and remodeling from top to bottom his home built in 1875. He loved Mountain Dew and reading Louis L’Amour western books. He was a storyteller and practical joker known by many for his good sense of humor. He used his beautiful bari-tone voice in the choir at El Bethel United Methodist Church where he was a member. He loved flea markets and could not pass up a hammer he felt he needed nor a piece of India brass of which he had thousands
20 years before retiring. Cindy was also owner and co-owner of several businesses. She was co-owner of the White House, the historical former Neisler home in Kings Mountain that served as a venue for weddings and parties, Quality Sandwich Shop, the Joy Theater, Hound’s Drive-In Theater and Campground, and Brown Enterprises with her husband of 55 years, Micheal.
Cindy was a former member of First Wesleyan Church where she taught Sunday School and assisted in leading the CYC (Christian Youth Crusaders) program. She also served on the Board of Directors at Broughton Hospital in Morganton, NC.
Cindy was an animal lover who enjoyed gardening, decorating for Christmas, and vacationing in the snow at her Beech Mountain home. She worked tirelessly as an advocate for those with dyslexia and Parkinson’s Disease.
Cindy loved her family dearly and always enjoyed hearing her children sing. Her warmth, love, and care will be missed by all who knew her and held her close.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years: Micheal Eugene Brown, of the home; children: Preston Brown and wife,
upon thousands of pieces. But most of all, he’s remembered for his love of wife and family.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Corrine Reynolds Swofford. Together, they loved to travel in retirement. They made memories for their nine grandkids by taking them on long trips to major tourist and historical sites all across the U.S. They took many long-distance trips themselves including a number of visits to Alaska, a state they loved, and back to Howard’s hometown and childhood friends in Minnesota. His family will always remember the wonderful family reunions at the beach.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters. Surviving Howard are his children: Wayne and Faye Swofford, Michael and Melissa Swofford, Diana Blanton, Steve and Cindy Jones, and Robert and Janet Swofford. He is also survived by his sisterin-law, Ruth Swofford. He had nine grandchildren, fourteen great-grand-
Holly; Jason Brown and wife, Heather; and Jada Brown McDaniel and husband, Cale, all of Kings Mountain; siblings: Brenda Breakfield of Kings Mountain and Roy “Bill” Green of Gastonia, NC; grandchildren: Brandon Brown, Michael Brown, Bryson McDaniel, Stetson McDaniel, Lucianna McDaniel, Corbin Brown, and William Nail, all of Kings Mountain and great-grandchild: Kinsley Brown.
Funeral service was held on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 3:00 P.M. at First Wesleyan Church of Kings Mountain with Rev. Robert Wells officiating.
Visitation was held prior to the service from 1:30 P.M. to 2:50 P.M. in the sanctuary of First Wesleyan Church.
Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Cindy’s memory may be made to VIA Partners Founded as Hospice of Cleveland County at 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC 28150.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.
children, and recently welcomed his first greatgreat-grandchild.
The family would like to thank the staff of Terra Bella in Newton, NC not only for their wonderful care of him but also for their amazing, great love for him. They treated him as if he were their own grandfather.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at El Bethel United Methodist Church in Kings Mountain where he was a member for 77 years on Saturday, September 7 at 2:00 PM.
Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the Fellowship Hall of El Bethel United Methodist Church Interment will be at El Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services , Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.
Sign up for the 2024 Sheriff’s Citizens Academy
Sheriff Alan Norman and the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting a Sheriff’s Citizens Academy beginning this fall. The academy will run for eight weeks from September 17 through November 5.
The Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy is an eightweek program designed to provide residents of Cleveland County with insight into the responsibilities and operations of their Sheriff’s Office.
Successful participation requires a commitment to one weekly class during the ten-week session
What does the program entail?
• Overview of the Sheriff’s Office
• Uniform Patrol Operations and Communications
• Criminal Investigations and Sex Offender Registry
• Crime Scene Investigations
• Detention Center, Court Security, and Civil
Process
• Crime Prevention, SRO, and STAR Program
• Vice, Narcotics, and CIT
• Special Operations (SERT and K9)
The academy will be every Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Law Enforcement Center, 100 Justice Pl. Shelby, NC 28150.
To apply, complete the Citizens Academy Application on our website www.sheriffclevelandcounty.com. If you have any questions, please contact Courtney Simpson at 704-484-4852.
Third rabies case reported in Clev. County
On August 29, 2024, the Cleveland County Health Department was notified of a skunk that tested positive for rabies. This is the third rabid animal identified in the county this year. The animal was found at Kee Lane, Shelby. Any person bitten or exposed to potentially infectious saliva from this animal should contact their healthcare provider or the local health department for a rabies risk assessment. You may contact the Cleveland County Health Department at 980-4845169 or 980-484-5100.
Rabies is a fatal yet preventable disease if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is administered. Rabies is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal or via contamination of open wounds or mucus membranes with potentially infectious material such as saliva.
Prevention of rabies is based on the protection of susceptible animals and people and the appropriate management of per-
sons and animals exposed to rabies:
• Vaccinate pets. Following NC State Law, all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies and wear a rabies tag. Cats are the most commonly identified domestic animal with rabies.
• Control measures for pets exposed to rabies: If pets are exposed to rabies, they should receive a booster dose of rabies vaccine if they are currently vaccinated at the time of exposure. If pets are not currently vaccinated against rabies when exposed, the animals will be euthanized or quarantined for six months in accordance with state law.
• Control measures for persons exposed to rabies: Seek medical guidance from your healthcare provider or the local health department if you believe
you have been exposed.
• Limit stray and feral animals. In Shelby, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, and Grover all dogs must be kept on a leash. People should not approach stray or feral dogs or cats. Feral cat colonies should be intensively monitored, and their location should be reported to Cleveland County Animal Services.
• Leave wildlife alone. Raccoons and other wildlife serve as the reservoir for rabies in North Carolina.
Rabies occurs throughout North Carolina. Anyone who sees an animal demonstrating unusual behavior should call the Cleveland County Animal Services at 704-481-9884.
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 trying to gather contact information
on all classmates. If you have not received any information, please email kmclassof1974@ gmail.com or call 704-2840284, or 704-466-8043 so they can get the information to you.
Governor announces new re-entry initiatives for people exiting prison
On August 13, Governor Cooper announced the release of the Reentry 2030 Strategic Plan, approved last week by the Governor’s Joint Reentry Council. The Joint Reentry Council was established in January by Governor Cooper’s Executive Order No. 303, which directed whole-of-government coordination to improve reentry for formerly incarcerated people and issued specific directives developed in partnership with each cabinet agency, the Office of State Human Resources and the Post-Release Supervision and Parole Commission.
The Reentry Strategic Plan contains 26 objectives, including bold, measurable goals to dramatically improve reentry, rehabilitation, and educational services for people existing incarceration. The Plan also contains 133 strategies, which are commitments by state agencies and other organizations to take specific actions to reach the objectives. The Plan also contains performance metrics, which will help North Carolina track progress toward the goals.
Since Governor Cooper signed Executive Order 303, state agencies have taken multiple actions to improve
reentry. State accomplishments since January include the announcement of fourteen new local reentry councils to provide coordinated services to people reentering their communities from prison, the launch of a Commercial Driver’s License program for incarcerated people, and an investment in a transitional work program to place formerly incarcerated people on road work crews to gain experience and skills leading to gainful employment.
With the announcement, the Governor addressed the Joint Reentry Council to thank them for their historic work and commitment to improving reentry services.
“This plan lays out our roadmap to help transform the lives of people leaving prison and reentering society while making our communities safe,” said Governor Cooper. “Committing to rehabilitation and education in and out of our prisons is both the right thing and the smart thing to do to strengthen our economy, reduce recidivism, and give people the second chance they deserve.”
“The NC Department of Adult Correction’s mission is to protect the public by collaboratively focusing on
rehabilitation, protection, innovation, accountability, and professionalism,” said Department of Adult Correction Secretary Todd Ishee. “The Reentry Strategic Plan embodies our belief that successful reentry begins on day one of our custody of a person.”
“North Carolina was one of the first states to join Reentry 2030, a national initiative that aims to dramatically improve reentry success for people exiting prison and those under supervision,” said Megan Quattlebaum, director of the CSG Justice Center. “We commend Governor Cooper and Secretary Ishee for this plan – it’s a bold, collaborative, cross-sector approach, and an example we hope leaders across the country will draw from.”
Since the signing of Executive Order 303, state agencies immediately began acting to improve reentry. The Strategic Plan highlights several accomplishments since January, including:
• The North Carolina Department of Commerce awarded grants totaling $750,000 to three local Workforce Development Boards to support the creation of three new local reentry councils to provide coordinated services to people reentering their communities after incarceration.
• The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (DAC) launched a program in partnership with the TransTech Driving School to train incarcerated people and provide them with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• The Post Release Supervision & Parole Commission created a reentry See PRISON, Page 5A
When harvesting the peppers, KMHS FFA students always wear gloves, which is a requirement.
Puma Peppers at harvest. (Photo by FFA)
OPINION
–John C. Calhoun
Pieces of Kings Mountain History
In a town as old as ours, structures come and go. Buildings are useful until they aren’t. Such was the case for the Bonnie Mill. Built around 1900, the mill employed many Kings Mountain residents. The village around the enterprise had many homes built by the mill, which still exist today.
Joe Falls had made the brick. And in two seconds it was nothing but dusty rubble.
Round two of the Kings Mountain Redevelopment Commission demolition contract with Bradley-Jenkins Enterprises to remove 30 city buildings got underway Tuesday when the wreckers moved in on the old Bonnie Mill structures.
From the 1938 – 1942 Henry Lee Waters films shot there, employees can be seen entering and exiting the mill. If you haven’t seen them, theyare online at https:// archive.org/details/mml_ kingsmountainhistorical1942_a_no_ audio. It is interesting to see all the buildings that have changed or lost since then.
Later, the Bonnie Mill became known as the MurGlow Spinning Mill, which closed in 1972. At the time, it was deemed a temporary closure.
The mill was demolished, except for the smokestack, in 1972. And, in 1975, the property was advertised for sale by bid in the paper.
This article, by Tom McIntyre, shares the story of the demolition of the last remaining vestige of the mill, its iconic smokestack: Another landmark is gone.
One man said the structure had been there since “like about 1897 or so.”
Carl Mauney said, “My dad told me how he helped haul brick to build it.”
The mill, built near the turn of this century, was the largest structure to be demolished, but there seemed to be more citizen interest in bringing down the 94-foothigh smokestack.
Preparations to bring down the crumbling structure were more elaborate, and according to John Jenkins, executive vice president of the contracting firm, this was so because of the unknown factors concerning the brick tower. Jenkins said blasting was ruled out because the brick and mortar were too much of an unknown quantity, and there was fear the wreckers would not have control over which way the structure would tumble.
It was almost that way anyway, Tuesday. The plans called for bulldozing dirt and debris high on the backside of the smokestack, chipping away the base on the front side, then giving the column a nudge to drop it forward.
To weaken the base, a dozer operator ever so gently scooped away brick and dirt. Three times he did so, and as the dozer backed away, the top of the tower moved a bit. Then, the tower base began to crumble, twisting a few
degrees, and down it came in so much sooty dust.
Carl Mamey was there to watch it fall.
“I started to work in that old mill in 1931,” he said as he watched the workmen attack the smokestack and buildings. ‘‘There’s a lot of memories connected with this place.” Jenkins said it would take three or four days to bring down all the structures and haul the debris away then they would be ready to move on to the next project.
Dean McGinnis, assistant director of the city’s redevelopment commission, said, “Originally, the old Sterchi’s
was due to come down before the mill, but we discovered Southern has umpteen phone lines wrapped around the warehouse. As soon as Bell has taken care of its equipment the warehouse will come down.” While we hate to see these properties disappear, we also know that maintaining an old building can be a costly, time-consuming challenge. If built properly and maintained over time, the brickwork can last for centuries. But if neglected, it won’t.
It is easy to blame the owners. But the hard truth is that they often inherit and are attached to these buildings, as Carl Mauney’s quote shows. It was where they
and their parents made their livelihoods and they grew up learning the family business, which has now become a tremendous financial burden. Practicality says they should sell it, but their hearts just can’t let it go. It is sad. If they hold on too long, the structure falls apart, the roof caves in, and they realize too late they should have divested the property years before.
Carl Mauney realized this with the Bonnie Mill, which he eventually sold to the City of Kings Mountain for redevelopment. The town needed a new city hall, and the property was conveniently located. So, in December 1976, the city bought the property for $15,625.00 at
ducted from
On January 1, 1977, the City of Kings Mountain received an Economic Development Grant for $999,250 to construct the new city hall. On August 4, 1979, Kings Mountain’s newest city hall was dedicated as about 200 citizens and politicians looked on. What was old was transformed into something new. And what was new then, is now forty-five years old. The funny thing is, that to many residents of Kings Mountain, this is the only city hall they have ever known. It hasn’t been here since the town was founded, just the beginning of recent memory.
Vice President Harris, “I did not ban fracking, nor will I.”
Vice President Kamala Harris recently did an interview with Dana Bash of the CNN network. In that interview Harris made sure that Bash and the country understood that she had not banned fracking during her term as Vice President nor would she ban fracking as President. Harris made it clear that she has been in charge all along. She didn’t say we. She didn‘t say President Biden. She didn’t say our administration. She said I. Harris should have made some other postulations during the interview. She did not reverse Roe vs. Wade. She did not lead or create a new national abortion law. She has had almost four years to slug out some kind of new national policy but she hasn’t. Harris didn’t secure our borders. Over eight million undocumented people have flooded into our country during the Biden/ Harris reign. This is a population the size of New York City. She won’t even visit the Southern border. She hasn’t done anything
Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial
about our national border security crisis. Towns like Aurora, Colorado are seeing the results of gangs entering our country. Why would we be duped into thinking this will change if we promote her to President?
Americans are becoming hungrier every day. We are spending more money at the grocery store and coming home with less food every week. In the fall of 2022 inflation was eleven percent. It has slowed recently but Americans have not caught up. Senior Americans can’t catch up unless there is a larger Social Security increase. Teachers’ pensions and others have not caught up to the increased cost of living. This has all happened on her watch. She sits in the second highest office in the world. If she can’t be influential at that desk, she won’t be successful sitting in the Oval office.
Interest rates have strangled home and car buyers. Credit card debt has skyrocketed. Has Harris made life easier for Americans who need housing
and a car to drive? No, most Americans cannot currently afford to buy a house and rent is a major strain.
Harris has done nothing to stop the barrage of fentanyl and other illegal drugs pouring into this country resulting in thousands of American deaths. What has Harris done to make the world safer? Six hostages being held by Hamas were executed in the last few days. Netanyahu and Israel’s army were moving very close to where these hostages were being held to rescue them. While this was going on President Biden was at his favorite place, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Harris was out campaigning. She has done nothing to resolve the Israel-Hamas war. She had not made any efforts to meet with Vladimir Putin to resolve the Ukraine war. What has Harris done? She is right. She has not banned fracking in Pennsylvania or any other state, but she hasn’t done anything else either. We are dependent on foreign oil. She has done nothing to make America energy independent. We should See HARRIS, Page 5A
LORETTA COZART
The Bonnie Mill demolition, seventy-two years after its construction in 1900.
Mur-Glow Spinning Mill 1972 after closure. Photos by Herald Archives
Bonnie Mill Smokestack Falls 1975.
Taxpayers can file NC Taxes for free under new direct file program
On August 16, Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Revenue (NCDOR) Secretary Ronald Penny announced North Carolina will join the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Direct File program for the upcoming tax filing season. Beginning in 2025, eligible North Carolina resi-dents will be able to utilize the free Direct File tool to submit both their both state and federal tax re-turns directly to the IRS. Approximately 1.25 million North Carolinians will be eligible to use Direct File for the upcoming tax season. This new resource is offered as part of the Inflation Reduction Act to provide taxpayers a user-friendly, free filing option.
“Filing taxes is often stressful, expensive, and time-consuming for North Carolina taxpayers and families. The IRS Direct File tool helps remove unnecessary hurdles and fees by allowing taxpayers to file directly with the IRS for free, keeping more money in their pockets,” said Governor Cooper. “This resource will help ensure qualifying families receive tax credits. We are grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for their diligent work in developing this tool and making it available at no cost to North Carolinians. We look forward to rolling it out as an option this coming tax season.”
“Making Direct File available as a filing option to North Carolinians is a huge win for working families. It provides a free filing option for eligible taxpayers, many who struggle to make ends meet,” said NC Department of Revenue Secretary Ronald Penny. “Direct File will help minimize tax fraud, strengthen the security of our tax system, and protect our residents against identity theft so that we continue to invest in our state and its people. It will also reduce the number of paper filings state employees are required to process, which will increase overall efficiency at the Department of Reve-nue.”
More than 1.25 million North Carolina taxpayers can file their taxes online for free, directly with the IRS this coming Filing Season.
“Direct File will save North Carolinians time and money and help ensure they receive the tax benefits they are owed,” said U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen.
“After a successful pilot this
Filing Season, we are pleased to expand the program as a permanent offering and welcome North Carolina as the latest new state to offer this free option to tax-payers.”
During the 2024 filing season, the U.S. Department of Treasury and IRS ran a successful Direct File pilot program enabling 140,000 taxpayers to claim over $90 million in tax refunds. The average taxpayer spends approximately $270 and up to 13 hours filing their taxes every year. According to the IRS Filing Season 2024 After Action report, the Direct File pilot saved an estimated $5.6 million in tax preparation fees for participating taxpayers.
“Code for America is thrilled to be working with North Carolina to expand FileYourStateTaxes to the Tar Heel State,” said Amanda Renteria, CEO of Code for America. “Direct File is already changing the face of tax filing in America, democratizing access to the tax system, and empowering millions of taxpayers to easily claim the refunds they are due without fees. We are honored to be part of this project and to help bring these benefits to North Carolinians.”
“Direct File is an opportunity to reduce the overload of financial stress on families, especially those with lower incomes, by simplifying the process to pay their taxes and receive their tax refunds. When parents have more money, it reduces stress and creates opportunities for economic mobility. Ensuring caregivers have what they need before problems arise allows the children in their care to thrive,” said Sharon Hirsch, President & CEO of Positive Childhood Alliance.
“We are grateful for the Governor’s support of Direct File to increase financial security and economic mobility for NC families.”
“OnTrack WNC tax preparation volunteers have years of experience serving low to moderate income taxpayers and we see firsthand how cumbersome, confusing, and expensive the tax filing systems have become,” said Rebecca Strimer, VITA Coordinator and Housing Counselor at OnTrack WNC.
“Access to free and simple federal and state filing systems through Direct File will be a big help to taxpayers and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs
across the state. Despite our efforts to serve as many people as possible, many taxpayers spend hundreds of dollars each year on tax prep software and services. Direct File will expand our capacity to serve more North Carolinians through our VITA program."
As a permanent filing option, Direct File will continue to be one option among many from which taxpayers can choose. It is not meant to replace other important options by tax professionals or commercial software providers, who are critical partners with the IRS in delivering a successful tax system for the nation. The IRS also remains committed to the ongoing relationship with Free File Inc., which has served taxpayers for two decades in the joint effort to provide free commercial software. Earlier this month, the IRS signed a fiveyear extension with industry to continue Free File.
As detailed in the IRS Direct File Pilot: Filing Season 2024 After Action Report, more than 15,000 Direct File users participated in the General Services Administration’s Touchpoints survey, which collects comprehensive user feedback about government systems. 90% of respondents ranked their experience as Excellent or Above Average. When asked what they particularly liked, respondents most commonly cited Direct File’s ease of use, trustworthiness and that it was free. Additionally, 86% of respondents said that their experience with Direct File increased their trust in the IRS.
Direct File’s users reported saving time: Filing taxes with Direct File generally took less than an hour, and many reported filing in as little as 30 minutes. Nearly half of Direct File users reported paying for tax preparation the previous year, and the Treasury Department estimates that Direct File users saved $5.6 million in tax preparation fees this filing season. The program is considered an essential step in the IRS’s digital transformation.
As the IRS works to expand Direct File, it will also work to strengthen all free filing options for taxpayers, including Free File, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program (TCE).
New State housing plan expands support for people with disabilities
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recently launched the North Carolina Strategic Housing Plan to help maintain, increase, and better utilize affordable supportive housing for people with disabilities across the state. This plan addresses housing needs for individuals with disabilities, including those currently receiving or eligible for NCDHHS-funded services, as well as those experiencing homelessness, presently residing in congregate settings, or at risk of entry into these settings.
Access to stable housing and other social determinants of health play an essential role in a person’s overall well-being. Safe, quality, affordable housing and the support necessary to maintain it are es-sential to a person’s overall health. This plan is a strategic guide over the next five years to focus policy efforts and decision-making toward creating and maximizing community-based housing options and support for people with disabilities. These efforts build upon NCDHHS’ Olmstead Plan, Transitions to Community Living, and Money Follows the Person initiatives.
“Improving equitable access to housing opportunities empowers people with disabilities to choose their own path for their life,” said NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health Equity and Chief Health Equity Officer Debra Farrington. “We appreciate the partners across North Carolina who contributed their expertise and perspectives to creating this plan, and we look forward to continuing to work together to
PRISON
From Page 3A
analyst position to support incarcerated people who are participating in a Mutual Agreement Parole Program (MAPP), reentrants granted parole from the Commission, and reentrants on post-release supervision.
• DAC has designated seven additional facilities for reentry including the first Close Custody Institu-
improve choice and inclusion in our communities.”
Beginning in May 2021, NCDHHS gathered diverse stakeholders and department leaders to form the Housing Leadership Committee. This group collaborated to develop the Strategic Housing Plan to increase access to a broad spectrum of community housing options while simplifying pathways to community-based care for individuals within their chosen community.
The NC Strategic Housing Plan addresses the housing needs of individuals with disabilities, including people with disabilities who are currently receiving or eligible for NCDHHS-funded services at the state and local levels, who are either experiencing homelessness, presently residing in congregate settings, or at risk of entry into these settings.
The Strategic Housing Plan focuses on five goal areas to improve access to housing in North Carolina communities:
• Increasing access to and development of supportive housing: Strategies include supporting the creation of 3,400 permanent supportive housing opportunities through the construction of new units and rehabilitation of existing properties to provide new access to existing units.
• Increasing household stability and efficient access to affordable supportive housing through non-development activities: Strategies include identifying and securing additional funds for rental assistance, leveraging and streamlining existing resources, lowering barriers to housing access, and improv-
tion. This will increase the total number of facilities designated for reentry to 21.
• The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has awarded funding to communities for services including $5.5 million to expand NC-FIT (North Carolina Formerly Incarcerated Transitions), a program that offers psychiatric and physical healthcare services along with community supports
ing the quality of existing housing.
• Providing quality housing support services statewide and supporting the development of training related to these services: Strategies for this area include identifying and leveraging funding streams to support pretenancy, transition, and tenancy support services, and increasing provider capacity and system infrastructure.
• Enhancing coordination among state agencies administering housing funding and programs: The department will explore creating a formal structure for accountability and strategy alignment across all state agencies.
• Increasing partnerships across the state to bolster affordable housing: The focus for this area is to improve coordination and partnerships at the state and local levels, leverage funding, and identify housing-related needs and system gaps across the state.
Two weeks ago, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a nearly $8 million grant awarded to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NC HFA) to create 225 additional affordable housing units in North Carolina for people with disabilities. NCDHHS will continue to partner with NC HFA and other community organizations to implement strategies to improve affordable housing options for people with disabilities and to meet the goals of the NC Strategic Housing Plan. For more information about the NC Strategic Housing Plan, visit ncdhhs.gov.
such as housing, transportation, and phones for reentrants who have serious mental illnesses.
• NC Medicaid granted DAC access to the Medicaid provider portal, NC Tracks. This will help DAC track Medicaid applications. For more information about the program, read North Carolina’s Reentry 2030 Strategic Plan at https://www.dac.nc.gov/ media/12802/open/.
nicipalities.”
CONTRACT
From Page 1A
appraised and that a percentage of that be taken for himself as well.
“When someone makes a bold move like this, you must look at their past. I did just that. I found his history to be nothing more than losses to previous mu-
HARRIS
From Page 4A
Thompson then reviewed the city manager’s employment past, citing three municipalities that had fired him, and he received severance packages. He also cited a New Mexico Supreme Court decision finding for the municipality. “He not only took $110,000 from Rio Rancho, but he also doubled down and filed suit for an additional $111,000, which the New Mexico Supreme Court ruled against” “I ask the council to consider not renewing his contract and begin searching for someone to replace him immediately.” As this item was not on the agenda for the evening, no discussion or action was taken.
use everything we have, wind, solar, oil,
Have
and
cars, have
cars, planes, trains, and whatever. Why can’t we have a balance and once again be energy
independent? We can, but Harris isn’t out leading the charge to make this happen. I don’t see how our country can survive four more years of what we have been through. The last 12 of the 16 years of Presidency has been held by Barack Obama and the Joe Biden/Kamala Harris team. What would eight or even four more years bring is a scary thought. Glenn Mollette is read 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
Be Anxious for Nothing
Part 1
Death and taxes. It has long been said that death and taxes are the two inevitables in life.
To be sure, both are very real and unpleasant. If I may, I would add one more to the list: anxiety. Anxiety comes to us all at some point in our lives. Based on a 2019 study, more than one in ten Americans are currently on antianxiety
medication. Anxiety is nothing new. In fact, we see anxiety and depression throughout biblical history. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul confronts anxiety:
(Philippians 4:67)
You may say, “It’s easy for you to say Paul, but you don’t know what I am going through.” True, your circumstances may be different from Paul’s, yet we must remember that in his life, Paul has been beaten, shipwrecked, imprisoned, blinded, suffered from a thorn in the flesh and is currently in prison, and will ultimately be martyred for
his faith in Jesus Christ. So, I believe we should at least hear him out. With this in mind, let’s begin by looking at the word anxious. In the Greek language, anxious literally means double-minded. The definition may mean nothing for the non-Christian, but for a believer in Christ, “double-minded” should hold significance for us. Anxiety causes us to focus on our problem, situation, or what might happen rather than on Christ. Anxi-
ety traps and imprisons our thoughts until we become incapable of thinking or functioning clearly. The Danish philosopher and theologian Søren Kierkegaard exclaimed, “Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom.” Indeed, There is a battle for our minds. Instead of fixating and enslaving ourselves to worry, we must focus on Christ, our Savior.
The famous hymn encourages us, “O Soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness, you see. There’s light for a look at the Savior and life more abundant and free. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace.”
This month-long series will confront anxiety. Yes, death and taxes may be a fact of life, but constant anxiety doesn’t have to be.
Blessings, Jonathan Bundon
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
Dr. Jonathan M. Bundon Worship Pastor First Baptist Church
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Mu Omega Chapter 2024 chapter retreat
Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Mu Omega Chapter, Gastonia, NC, held its annual Chapter Retreat on Friday and Saturday, August 9 - 10. The group convened in the Mildred J. Sadler Fellowship Hall at St. Stephens AME Zion Church, in Gastonia.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, was founded on January 15, 1908, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, DC. It is the first Greek letter organization established by college-educated African American women. The main objective of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, is “To be Supreme in Service to All Mankind.” Currently, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has over 355,000 members worldwide.
Zeta Mu Omega’s 2024 Retreat theme was “Majestic Sisterhood: Reclaiming Our Commitment, Promise, and Foundation” to emphasize the 69 years the Gastonia Chapter has existed and continues
proudly serving the community. The retreat was a time to strengthen their sisterhood, evaluate their purpose, and focus on reclaiming members. Attendees were also interested in learning about opportunities to become more involved in Alpha Kappa Alpha and Zeta Mu Omega Chapter, and “Soar to Greater Heights in Sisterhood and Service.”
Ms. Whitney Hill, Zeta Mu Omega’s vice-president, opened the retreat with a heartfelt welcome and prayer. President Mrs. Cassie Watkins gave the State of the Chapter Address and reminded members of the importance of strengthening the bonds of sisterhood. The keynote speaker for the event was Mrs. Felicia Setzer of Hickory NC. Mrs. Setzer is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and serves as the Mid-Atlantic Representative to the International Nominating Committee. She reminded members of their commit-
ment to Alpha Kappa Alpha and involved members in interactive conversations and games while keeping with the overall theme of the retreat.
Zeta Mu Omega members collected items and donated them to two groups. Personal hygiene items were gifted to the less fortunate in the Lincolnton, NC, area. Men’s clothing and shoes were gifted to a Gastonia resident whose home was flooded during a recent storm. This effort was in conjunction with the Sorority’s Empower Our Families Initiative.
Vice-President Ms. Whitney Hill personally handcrafted and presented a commemorative Ivy Leaf chapter pin to over 75 Zeta Mu Omega Chapter members in attendance. Zeta Mu Omega encourages the community to follow the chapter on its social media page, www.akagastonia.org, to learn more about the chapter’s Program Initiatives as they work to provide essential services to the community.
Mauney Memorial Library September programs
By Mari Slaughter
Mauney Memorial Library is proud to provide engaging programs for every age group! Below are programs offered in September.
• Library Storytime in Person (preschoolers)
Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 am, Mauney Library Community Room. Come to the library to enjoy a story, music, and a take home craft with Miss. Anne.
• Learn Grow Play (preschoolers)
Fridays 10:00-11:30 am, Mauney Library Community Room.Play in centers, then enjoy a story, music, and a take home craft with Miss. Anne.
• Adult Book Club Monday, September 9th 6:30-7:30 pm. Join the Mauney Library book club and meet with people every month to discuss popular books. This month’s book is Weyward by Emilia Hart. Contact info@mauneylibrary.org to join! The book
is available for checkout at the front desk.
• Sit and Stitch (Adults) Wednesday, September 18th 2:30-4:30 pm Meet us in the community room to work on a project, chat, and get advice from fellow crafters. Bring your current project or pick up one of the provided puzzles or coloring pages to work on while you chat. This group is open to everyone to drop in and get to know each other.
• Lego Club (ages 6-12) Third Thursday of every month 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm, Library Community Room. Free build and participate in group projects, snacks provided.
• Planting Fall Bulbs (Adults) (Registration Required) Wednesday, September 25th 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Library Community Room. Presented by Master Gardener Joe Bothel
• Fishing at Shorts Lake in Crowder’s Mountain (Registration Required) (Family), Friday, September 27th 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Crowders Mountain Lake Trail (Sparrow Springs Access) 522 Park Office Lane. School is out, so come enjoy a time of fishing with a ranger. Snacks and prizes.
• Technology Assistance Make an appointment 704-739-2371, Mauney Memorial Library is at 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. For the latest in library news and events, visit www. mauneylibrary.org. Please follow us on Face-book and Instagram.
Patrick Senior Center September events
By Mari Slaughter
The Patrick Center is a SHIIP site and can help with Medicare questions and check to see if you qualify for Extra Help with your drug costs. They can also assist with transportation, loan equipment, incontinence supplies, nutritional supplements, and other services.
September 2024
Special Events:
• Senior Day at the Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market: Saturday, September 7, 8 am-12 pm. Technology Presentation with Trey: Monday, September 9, 10-11 am. Join us to learn about a new technology topic!
• Senior Tar Heel Legislators: Friday, September 13, 10:30-11 am. Max Hopper and Clark Poole will discuss this year’s community goals
and important senior needs.
• Build a Birdhouse Workshop with Dale George: Monday, September 16, 10 am-12 pm. Come build a wooden birdhouse with several patterns to choose from. Sign up and pay the $10 fee before Monday, September 9.
• Intermediate Computer Classes by Beth McDaniel with Cleveland Community College: Wednesdays, 9 am-12 pm, September 18October 30. Call the Center to pre-register. You must attend one of the first two classes to get enrolled.
• Cleveland County Re-Appraisal Presentation (Part 2): Wednesday, September 18, 10-11 am. Join us to learn about the Schedule of Values for the 2025 reappraisal, how property tax bills are calculated, and ask questions.
• Exercise Equipment Consultations by Ivy Rehab: Wednesday, September 18, 10:30 am-1:30 pm. Call the Center to sign up for a 30-minute session.
Paint Class with Kathy: Thursday, September 19, 5:30-8:00 pm. Join us for an art night of fun! Sign up and pay the $20 fee at the front desk. Refreshments served and all supplies are provided. Open to the public.
• Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body by the Alzheimer’s Association: Monday, Septem-ber 23, 11 am-12 pm. Learn about re-
search in nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and so-cial engagement to make a plan for healthy aging.
• Social Security 101 Lunch and Learn by Lisa Wallace: Tuesday, September 24, 12-1:30 pm. Join us for this free virtual presentation. We will discuss everything you need to know about Social Security and have your questions answered. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to the Center by Tuesday, September 17.
• Cognitive Health in Older Adults (Part 2) by Synergy Homecare: Wednesday, September 25, 11 am-12 pm. Learn about the facets of cognitive health, as well as balance, dementia and nutrition. Ongoing Activities at the Patrick Center
• Ceramics: Mondays, 9:30-11:30 am.
• Facebook Chat: Mon-
days, 10-10:45 am. (Online via Facebook)
• Seniors in Motion: Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays, 10:30-11:30 am. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.
• Quilting: Mondays, 12:30-3 pm.
• Beginner Quilting: Thursdays, 10 am-12 pm & 1-3 pm.
• Intermediate Line Dance (Dance Floor Rockers): Mondays, 1-3 pm.
• Intermediate Line Dance (Southern Class): Thursdays, 10-11:30 am.
• Beginner Line Dancing: Mondays, 11:30-12:30 pm.
• Clogging: Mondays, 3:30-4:30 pm.
• Knitting: Tuesdays, 8:30-10:30 am.
• Veterans Meeting: 1st Tuesdays, 9-10 am.
• Bible History: Tuesdays, 10-11 am.
• Monthly Birthday Celebration: 4th Tuesdays, 10-11 am.
• REFIT Dance Exercise: Tuesdays, 11 am-12 pm.
• Volunteer Meeting: 3rd Tuesdays, 12:15-1 pm.
• Chair Volleyball: Tuesdays, 1-3 pm and Fridays, 12-2 pm.
• Canasta: Tuesdays, 1-3p m.
• Seniorcise: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4-4:45 pm. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.
• Tai Chi for Arthritis: Wednesdays, 9-10am.
• Jewelry Class: Wednesdays, 10-11 am.
• Chair Yoga: Wednesdays, 11:45-12:45 pm. ($3 Fee).
• Blood Pressure Clinic (Sponsored by Centerwell Home Health): 1st See PATRICK, Page 8A
BASIL, TOMATO CHEESE SNACK Carolyn Henwood
favorite cracker with:
basil leaf, halved cherry tomato and drizzle with balsamic vinegar glaze. Easy and delicious.
Members gather for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Mu Omega Chapter’s chapter retreat. Photo by Katherine Pendergrass
Transportation Administration of Cleve. Co. provides a vital service
By Alan Hodge
Transportation
Administra-
tion of Cleveland County, Inc.
(TACC) is a non-profit agency that provides general public transportation for Cleveland County residents.
TACC started back in April 1988 in an uptown Shelby location before moving to a spot at the corner of Double Shoals road and NC18. It settled in its present location at 952 Airport Road, Shelby in July 1999. TACC’s white and blue vans are a familiar sight in and around the county. TACC has a total of twenty-five vans. All vans are ADA compliant with wheelchair accessibility (all but one).
Twenty-three of the vans are used for Demand Response trips and the other two are used for our Fixed routes Cleveland
County Transit (CCT) and West End REACH. Rides for Demand Response trips include trips to Medical appointments, pharmacy, Dialysis, Adult Day Care programs and etc. Cleveland County Transit (CCT) has 31 stops/4 rounds daily Monday through Friday from 7am ~ 3:10pm. West End REACH has 9 stops/7 rounds daily Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 9:00am ~ 2:45pm. Rides for the fixed routes are free to the public. The fixed routes include stops at the Public Library, Cleveland Community College, Walmart, Cleveland Mall, Department of Social Services, Atrium Health ER, other local offices and shopping places. Outside of Cleveland County, TACC provides rides to Gastonia, Charlotte, and the VA in Asheville on the second Tuesday of every month.
nie Costner, TACC provided 45,826 trips last year. James Mask is a faithful TACC rider.
“ I do not drive, and I have been riding TACC for seven and a half years,” he said. “I love it.” A REACH rider has been using the service for three years. It has helped me tremendously get to my appointments and to Walmart. It has really been a blessing.
Costner, who has been with TACC for 25 years and started out as a driver, has seen the service grow as it meets the needs of Cleveland County residents. It is a wonderful service, she said. There is a high demand for transportation services in Cleveland County and TACC is a way for those who might not have any means of transpor-
tation or family or friends to help them get back and forth to appointments. I have met some wonderful people using this service. Some of them were riding TACC when I first started as a driver and are still using it. Our main goal is service to serve the community and the safety of our passengers. This is something TACC strives to achieve daily in its quest to help folks keep moving to the places they need and want to be.
Interested in using TACC; rides can be scheduled by calling (704)482-6465. Other contact and general information on these services are available online at www.taccshelbync.com.
Clover School District Auditorium 23rd season Performing Arts Series opens
The 23rd season of the Clover School District Auditorium Performing Arts Series begins September 12.
T heir annual Ticket Distribution, Reception and Open House is a Clover School District Auditorium Series Subscriber Special Event and will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, 5:30-8:00 PM.
Series subscribers are invited to drop in anytime between 5:30pm and 8:00pm to pick up their season tickets, explore the auditorium, enjoy light refreshments, and listen to great music by Alan Kaufman and friends.
Young Original will be the first performance to be held on on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 7:00
PM. Tickets are $20.00. Young Original is a four piece acoustic band with a passion for breathing new life into classic American music. Their unique fusion of Jazz, Classical, Folk, and Pop influences has made this group an absolute must-see for all music lovers.
Since forming in 2022 they’ve delighted audiences across the United States with their riveting live shows. Their dynamic performance videos have racked up millions of views online. Each member is a stunning performer in their own right with striking combinations of instrumental mastery on the piano, guitar, mandolin, dobro, accordion, and cello.
The band’s equally stunning vocal harmonies, dynamic performances and laid-back, genuine connection with audiences is worth experiencing for
Items Include: 16” Boring machine with augers, floor saw with blades, manhole boxes, trench box, shop tools, wrenches, hydraulic press, drill press, steel concrete forms, water pump with hoses, fire hydrant hoses, backhoe buckets, pipes, water and sewer repair fittings and much more...
Date: September 9th through 14th
Time: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Location:
Kennedy Concrete and Utilities Inc.
Hwy. 18 South at Hickory Creek 2106 Cedar Circle Drive Shelby, NC 28152
PATRICK
From Page 7A Wednesdays, 10-11:30 am.
• Color Me Calm: Wednesdays, 10-11 am.
• Food Giveaway: 3rd Wednesdays, 8:30-10 am (Summer Schedule). Please call to sign up each month.
• sBook Club by Mari with Mauney Memorial Library: 4th Wednesdays, 1-2 pm at the Patrick Center. Please call Mari at 704-739-2371 for more information. New members welcome.
• Healthy Lifestyles Class: Thursdays, 8-9:30 am.
• Gentle Exercise: Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 am.
• Bingo: Thursdays, 10:30-11:15 am.
• Coffee & Conversation: Fridays, 8:30-10 am.
• Dulcimer Jam: Fridays, 9-10 am.
• Chorus: Fridays, 10-11 am. New members welcome.
• Friday Lunch: Fridays, 11 am-12 pm. Call to sign up by Thursday at Noon or until we are full. Cost is $4.
• Ping Pong/Corn Hole: Fridays, 12-2 pm. Shred Truck: Truck will be here September 11 to shred onsite, but you can bring your items to be shredded at any time the center is open and put them in the locked bins in the lobby. Please call the center at 704-734-0447 for more information or to sign up for programs. Programs are open to people ages 55 and up unless otherwise noted.
Passengers love the service TACC provides. According to Executive Director Stepha-
TACC executive director Stephanie Costner has been with the agency for 25 years. She started out as a driver. (Photos by Alan Hodge)
TACC headquarters at 952 Airport Rd., Shelby.
YOUNG ORIGINAL
Wednesday, September 4, 2024 The Kings Mountain Herald | www.kmherald.com
Kings Mountain defeats Cox Mill 42-17, county rival Burns comes to town Friday
In a game that was stopped by rain on Friday and resumed Monday at John Gamble Stadium, the hometown Mountaineers defeated non-conference foe Cox Mill 42-17.
The Mountaineers will have a much tougher test Friday when they host county rival Burns at 7:30 p.m. It will be the Mountaineers’ final non-conference game and they will be open the following week before beginning Big South Conference play.
Friday’s game was halted at the 8:19 mark of the second quarter because of lightning and the teams hoped to resume it later. However, at 9:30 p.m. a severe storm ended those hopes.
Kings Mountain was leading 14-7 at the time.
Cox Mill took the opening kickoff to the KM 43 yard line and took just three plays to go up 7-0 on a touchdown catch by Marcus Sales and PAT by Cooper Lemon.
Kings Mountain lost the ball on downs at the Cox Mill 27 on its first possession, but their sec-ond possession ended with a five-yard touch-down run by Josiah Hill and PAT from Matthew Rhom to make it 7-7.
In the second period
KM’s Antonio Armstrong recovered a fumble at the Cox Mill 13 and Hill took it in from there. Rhom added the PAT for a 14-7 lead.
KM was in scoring position again at the Cox Mill 31 at 8:19 p.m. when the game was called due to lightning in the area. The storm wouldn’t go away and at 9:30 p.m. the game was suspended.
After the game resumed Monday KM’s Jayden Gash returned a punt to the Cox Mill end zone but during the run the Mountaineers were pe-nalized and had to take possession at the 40. A face mask penalty by Cox Mill put the Moun-taineers in business at the 25 and four carries
by Hill put them at the 11. Matt Rhom’s field goal increased the lead to 17-7 with 3:21 left in the first half. After the KM defense
at the half. The Mountaineers continued to pour it on as Gash returned the second half kickoff from the KM one to the Cox Mill 48. It took the Mountaineers just six plays to score with Hill and Vaughn catching passes of 10 and 14 yards, respectively, and TJ Armstrong carrying once for seven yards and Hill three for 17 yards including a four-yard touchdown run. Rhom’s PAT made it 31-7.
The visitors actually stopped the Mountaineers on their next drive but KM’s Dakota Smith scored a safety to run the score to 33-7.
Cox Mill’s kickoff went out of bounds and the Mountaineers took over at the visitors’ 45. Four plays later Armstrong hit William Vaughn for a 35-yard TD pass and Rhom added the PAT for a 40-7 lead that stood until the fourth quarter. The visitors’ Cooper Lemon kicked a 36-yard field goal to cut the margin to 40-10 at the 11:48 mark of the fourth period. KM’s final two points came on a safety with 5:17 left in the game. Cox Mill got a three-yard touchdown run by Mason Emory with 1:18 left to account for the final margin.
Kings Mountain High’s volleyball teams opened Big South 3A Conference play last week with a sweep of the Ashbrook Lady Green Wave.
The JVs won 25-5, 25-9 and the varsity won 25-5, 25-6, 25-13. Both teams’ overall records are 1-0 in the conference and 5-1 overall.
Both teams got outstanding play from all play-ers.
For the JVs, Elyn Phongsa had three kills, three serve receptions, two digs and nine service points. Elyn Phongsa had three kills, three serve recep-tions, two digs and nine service points and Jil-lian Patton had 16 assists and four service points.
Ruby Osborne had 11 service points and three kills and London Brown and Denet Houey had 11 and 7 kills, respectively.
The Lady Mountaineers were scheduled to host Hunter Huss in a BSC match Tuesday and will host East Gaston in a non-conference match Wednesday. After that the teams will resume conference play with matches at North Gaston on Septem-ber 5 and Forestview on September 10. Their next home game will be against South Point on September 12. All matches begin at 6 p.m.
For the varsity, Alexa Jones had 23 service points, five serve receptions, six kills and three digs. Camden Pasour had 27 assists, four kills and a block.
SPORTS THIS WEEK
Wed., Sept. 4
6 p.m. – High school volleyball, East Gaston at Kings Mountain.
6 p.m. – High school men’s soccer, Kings Mountain at RS Central. Thur. Sept. 5
6 p.m. – High school volleyball, Kings Mountain at North Gaston.
7 p.m. – High school JV football, Kings Mountain at Burns.
Fri., Sept. 6
7:30 p.m. – Burns at Kings Mountain. Tue., Sept. 10
6 p.m. – High school volleyball, Kings Mountain at Forestview.
6 p.m. – High school cross country, Cleveland County meet (KM, Shelby, Burns and Crest) at the Cleveland Community College course.
held the visitors again the offense took over at its own 36 and Armstrong hooked up with William Vaughn for a 64-yard TD and Rhom’s PAT made it 24-7
By Loretta Cozart
safety through the YMCA. Photo by KM Family YMCA
Mountaineers take their pre-game run down the hill of Gamble Stadium for non-conference battle with Cox Mill.
Josiah Hill carries the mail for Kings Mountain in non-conference victory over Cox Mill
Scenes from Friday night’s KMHS vs. Cox Mill. The game was halted at the 8:19 mark of second quarter due to lighting. The game was resumed on Monday at John Gamble stadium.
Brady Sellers, KMHS Band Drum Major.
Beckett Henderson honored as Good Citizen
Beckett is the son of Eric and Michael Henderson. Congratulations Beckett!
Pinnacle Classical Academy archery students compete in Eastern National Championships
Seven students from Pinnacle Classical Academy competed in the 12th annual S3DA (Scholastic 3-D Archery) Eastern 3D National Championship in Rend Lake, Illinois, on June 13-16.
Duncan Pittillo finished in second place in the Eagle Open Class competition.
“We’re so proud of Duncan and the other
“Their persistence and hard work, combined with the support of their families and coaches, have really paid off.”
Founded in 2013, Pinnacle Classical Academy is a tuition-free public charter school in Shelby that attracts 1,200 students from five counties. It is recognized as one of the best elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools in the nation by
L-R: Holly Robinson, West Elementary Principal, Beckett Henderson and Mark McDaniel. (Photo provided)
More scenes from Friday night’s KMHS vs. Cox Mill game.
Eli McComas and Turner Holt, KMHS Band tuba players.
Duncan Pittillo (left) receiving award. (Photos provided)
L-R: Parker Proctor, Clayton Wilkinson, Heather Carswell, Madison Romain, Parker Kaylor, Duncan Pittillo, McKenzie Glenn, Abel Hovis and Edwin Pittillo.
Back to school tips for protecting kids from vaping risks
As students head back to school, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reminding parents about the dangers of tobacco vaping, encouraging proactive prevention for their kids.
E-cigarettes, or vapes, are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid and produce an aerosol. Vapes come in many shapes and sizes, and they typically contain nicotine.
No tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are safe. The danger is especially true for youth, whose brains are still developing until about age 25. Using nicotine during these years can harm the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.
There are many reasons youth might vape. Many students who vape report using e-cigarettes because they feel anxious, stressed, or depressed. E-cigarette marketing and advertising, the availability of appealing flavors, social influences, and the effects of nicotine all play a role in why youth start and continue to vape.
The most common reason students try e-cigarettes is because a friend uses them. The most common reason students give for currently using e-cigarettes is feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed.
Nicotine is highly addictive. Nicotine addiction can harm mental health and be a source of stress. Nicotine addiction or withdrawal can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression or make these feelings worse. Youths might use tobacco products to relieve
their symptoms, which can lead to a cycle of nicotine addiction.
Parents, educators, and health care providers are trusted sources of information for youth. They can talk to youth about vaping and help them learn healthy coping skills instead of vaping, such as:
• Recognizing and managing stressful feelings: Help youth identify what causes their stress or anxiety and help them proactively manage stress when they start feeling this way.
• Practicing relaxation techniques: Encourage positive stress management techniques, like meditation, listening to music, or deep breathing.
• Building a support system: Provide support when youth feel stressed and encourage them to reach out to family and friends.
• Practicing self-care: Teach youth how they can manage their feelings of stress by taking care of themselves, including eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep.
• Staying active: Empower youth to manage their stress and anxiety by getting physical activity every day. E-cigarettes are the most
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 29th of August, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of ROBERT WARREN RUNYANS (24 E 600), 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, Susie Beth Clary, Administratrix on or before the 4th of December, 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 4th day of September, 2024.
Susie Beth Clary, Administratrix Estate of Robert Warren Runyans PO Box 15 Earl, NC 28038 Or 6026 Deep Green Dr Shelby, NC 28152
KMH (9/04, 11, 18 & 25/2024)
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK
MARIE B. MORROW aka MARIE BAKER MORROW, Deceased.
CO-EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
Having qualified on the 23rd day of August, 2024 as Co-Executors of the Estate of Marie B. Morrow aka Marie Baker Morrow, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Co-Executors on or before the 6th day of December, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 4th day of September, 2024.
Bryan C. Morrow, Co-Ex. 4015 Chestnut Woods Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Bruce H. Morrow, Co-Ex. 419 Meadow Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086
C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.
CLONINGER & NEISLER
P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (9/4, 9/11, 9/18 & 9/25/24)
sources are available to help them quit. There are many free and low-cost resources available to help, some designed specifically for teens who vape.
Parents, educators, and health care providers all play essential roles in helping youth reject or quit tobacco use, including vaping. Working together will help ensure that youth live healthy, tobacco-free lives.
commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth.
In 2023, 2.1 million (7.7%) students currently used e-cigarettes. This includes 550,000 (4.6%) middle school students and 1.56 million (10.0%) high school students.
Resources for Parents, Educators, and Health Care Providers
No tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are safe, especially for children, teens, and young adults. Learn how to protect youth from the harms of vaping with resources from the Empower Vape-Free YouthTM.
The Empower VapeFree YouthTM campaign encourages middle and high school educators to speak with students about the risks of e-cigarettes and nicotine addiction. The campaign includes resources for educators to help students avoid or quit vaping. Free resources and more information about the campaign are available at https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/empowervape-free-youth-campaign. html?s_cid=OSH_misc_ M564.
Many youth who vape want to quit and have tried to quit. However, nicotine addiction can make quitting hard. Like quitting smoking, people may experience withdrawal symptoms when they quit vaping.
Youth may not know where to start or what re-
Parents and educators can help youth develop skills to safely cope with stress and help youth resist social pressure to vape.
Educators can also encourage students to build a support system of family, friends, and educators who will help them stay vapefree. School professionals can empower youth to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider about treatment options.
Healthcare providers can ask patients if they use any tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, and inform patients who vape about treatment options and quitting support resources.
There are many free resources offered by the CDC that are available to help youth reject or quit tobacco use, including vaping. Visit https://www.cdc. gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/ youth-quitting.html?s_cid=OSH_misc_M567 for information and links to downloadable guides and sup-port tools. Additional Youth Quitting Resources:
• Home | Smokefree Teen (https://teen.smokefree.gov/)
• Quit Vaping | Smokefree Teen (https://teen. smokefree.gov/quit-vaping)
• SmokefreeTXT for Teens (https://teen.smokefree.gov/become-smokefree/smokefreeteen-signup)
• StateTelephone Quitlines (1-800-QUIT-NOW and 1-855-DÉJELO-YA)
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 4th of December, 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 4th day of September, 2024.
Deborah L. Dedmon, Administratrix
Estate of Billy J. Dedmon
116 A Deer Brook Dr. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (9/04, 9/11, 9/18 & 9/25/2024)
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 30th of July, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of MAGGIE LUCILLE BLACK BROWN; AKA, MAGGIE LUCILLE-BLACK BROWN; AKA, MAGGIE L. BROWN (24 E 382), 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, Cynthia Brown Reid, Executrix on or before the 28th 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 28th day of August, 2024.
Cynthia Brown Reid, Executrix
Estate of Maggie Lucille Black Brown; aka, Maggie Lucille-Black Brown; aka, Maggie L. Brown
4814 Barrett Road
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (8/28, 9/04, 11 & 18/2024)
FDA increases minimum age for tobacco products to 21 nationwide
Photo I.D. required starting September 30
The US Food and Drug Administration announced a final rule that raises the minimum age for certain restrictions on tobacco product sales. These requirements are in line with legislation signed in December 2019 that immediately raised the federal minimum age of sale of tobacco products in the United States from 18 to 21 years of age. Once implemented, the requirements are expected to help decrease underage tobacco sales.
Beginning Sept. 30, retailers must verify with photo identification the age of anyone under 30 who is trying to purchase tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Previously, this requirement ap-plied to anyone under 27. Retailers need to request and examine photo IDs to verify the age of an-yone under 30, regardless of appearance, as research has shown that it is difficult for retailers to determine the age of a customer from appearance alone accurately.
Additionally, starting Sept. 30, retailers may not sell tobacco products via vending machine in fa-cilities where individuals under 21 are present or permitted to enter at any time. Previously, this prohibition applied to facilities where individuals under 18 were present or permitted to enter at any time. These, and the other changes made by the final rule, aim to maximize the public health impact of the original December 2019 legislation.
“Today’s rule is another key step toward protecting our nation’s youth from the health risks of tobacco products,” said Brian King, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. “Decades of science have shown that keeping tobacco products away from youth is criti-cal to reducing the number of people who ultimately become addicted to these products and suffer from tobacco-related disease and
death.” The Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, signed into law on Dec. 20, 2019, increased the federal minimum age for the sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 across the United States. Since then, it has been illegal to sell tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to anyone under 21 years of age. The law also directed the FDA to take today’s action, increasing the age of certain require-ments for tobacco product sales, as explained above.
Today’s action is part of ongoing federal efforts to protect young people from accessing tobacco products. More than 95% of U.S. adults who smoke daily smoked their first cigarette by the age of 21. Accordingly, the FDA continues to robustly enforce the federal minimum age of sale for tobac-co products, including after the minimum age of sale was increased to 21. To date, the agency has conducted more than 1.5 million compliance checks of tobacco retailers to ensure compliance with federal age restrictions. These inspections have resulted in 134,000 warning letters, more than 33,000 civil money penalties and 230 no-tobacco-sale orders for violations related to federal age restrictions. The agency also continues to provide retailers with resources to improve compliance with tobac-co laws and regulations, including age of sale restrictions. For example, the FDA has developed a voluntary education program, “This is Our Watch,” which offers free resources to assist retailers in calculating the age of customers, including a digital age verification calendar and an age calculator app. Retailers can also find information on tobacco products that may be legally marketed in the United States through the Searchable Tobacco Products Database. Updated resources, including further information on these latest requirements, will be made available on the FDA’s website in the near future.
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
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX
Having qualified on 28th of August 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Kimberly Dawn Parris AKA Dawn Grayson Parris (24 E 706), 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 Logan Blaire Howell, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before December 5, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.
This the 4th day of September, 2024.
Logan Blaire Howell
Administratrix of the Estate of Kimberly Dawn Parris AKA
Dawn Grayson Parris
c/o A. Susan Biggers
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
402 East Graham Street
Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (9/04, 11, 18 & 25/2024)
NCDHHS allocates $4.5M for children’s behavioral health
On August 27, The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) an-nounced a $4.5 million investment in the N.C. Child Treatment Program, a statewide initiative to train mental health providers in trauma-informed treatment models for children with complex behav-ioral health needs. NCDHHS is investing to expand access to proven behavioral health treatments so young people and their families receive the support they need sooner and in the communities where they live and learn.
The investment is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the child
behavioral health workforce and build a continuum of services to improve outcomes for children and families.
“As we work to transform the child behavioral health system in North Carolina, we’re not only in-vesting to increase access to services but to improve the quality of treatment available to children and families,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “We’re training more clinicians statewide to provide effective, evidence-based treatment with high standards so that children have access to the best possible care in their communities.”
The NC Child Treatment
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
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
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)
Program trains mental health professionals and community agencies in a range of evidence-based treatment models shown to prevent the escalation of behavioral health symptoms by providing effective, timely, and trauma-informed intervention. Demonstrated outcomes of treatment include a reduction in symptoms related to depression, suicidal thoughts, post-traumatic stress, and other behavioral challenges.
In the first year of this investment, the number of clinicians and community agencies trained in existing and new clinical models through the program will increase by 96%.
“We have amazing caregivers and community professionals in our state who are committed to sup-porting our youth,” said NCDHHS Director of Child and Family Strategy Hanaleah Levy Hoberman. “This is especially important when a young person experiences a behavioral health challenge that may otherwise prevent them from succeeding at home, in school, or in their community. That’s why we’re investing to expand treatments that work with families and schools along with the child.”
The NC Child Treatment
Program is part of the Center for Child and Family Health (CCFH), which specializes in treating and preventing child traumatic stress and is a key partner in NCDHHS’ work to expand access to trauma-informed services. The department is contracting with CCFH to introduce new models into the program’s training curriculum and to extend the program to rural and under-served communities for more equitable access to services across the state.
“The North Carolina Child Treatment Program has been at the heart of the work of CCFH since 2014,” said Robert Murphy, Ph.D., Executive Director of CCFH. “The investment of $4.5 million from NCDHHS will ensure that many more children and families, especially children living in rural areas of our state, will have access to cutting-edge treatments. Effectively transforming the lives of children and families served by the NC CTP trained clinicians.”
NCDHHS’ investment focus includes the following models, in addition to other select evidence-based treatments effective for children and families:
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-
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
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)
CBT) – A trauma-informed interven-tion for youth experiencing symptoms or behavioral challenges related to trauma, with active involvement from the child’s caregiver(s) to support long-term family healing.
• Cognitive Behavioral Interview for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) – A school-based service to address symptoms of traumatic stress for elementary through high school students.
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) – A tailored treatment for teenagers and caregivers navigating the impact of trauma and post-traumatic stress, often provided in an outpatient setting to help children remain at home or return home quickly.
• Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT) – Group or fami-ly therapy that addresses a child’s difficulty recognizing socially acceptable boundaries for physical or sexual behavior. Most participants are successfully treated through outpatient ser-vices, avoiding the need for out-ofhome placement.
In addition to training, CCFH will use the funding to provide enhanced consultation for agencies and cli-
nicians to ensure fidelity to evidence-based models. The organization also offers implementa-tion guidance on best practices for evidence-based treatments, helping ensure providers can maintain high quality of practice and services.
NCDHHS’ investment in the NC Child Treatment Program is part of a broader commitment to build an integrated behavioral health system for children in North Carolina. Of the historic $835 mil-lion allocated for behavioral health in the 2023 state budget, $80 million is dedicated to improving outcomes for children with complex behavioral health needs and their families. The department con-tinues to invest in a spectrum of services — in homes, schools, communities, and residential settings — that expand equitable access to high-quality, trauma-informed, family-centered care. To help families and care managers find and access behavioral health services, CCFH maintains a statewide roster of NC Child Treatment Program providers. To access the roster and learn more about the program’s therapy models, visit https:// ncchildtreatmentprogram.org.
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 (24e 674), 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)
CALL FOR APPLICANTS
KINGS MOUNTAIN AT-LARGE CITY COUNCIL SEAT
The Kings Mountain City Council is seeking applicants who are interested in filling the At-Large seat vacated on July 31, 2024 by the resignation of Councilmember David Allen. Qualifications are as follows:
• Applicant must be a citizen of the United States
• Be at least 21 years of age
• Have not been convicted of a felony, or if they have been so convicted, have completed their sentence including any probation or parole, and have been restored to the rights of citizenship in the manner prescribed by law
• Have been a resident of the City of Kings Mountain for 30 days prior to filing your application and being qualified to vote in an election for the office sought
Applications will be available beginning Tuesday, September 3, 2024 on the City of Kings Mountain website at www.cityofkm.com and at City Hall, 101 West Gold Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 20, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
For more information, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 704-734-0333.
KMH (9/4 & 9/11/2024)
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)
BUSINESS SERVICES
SCREEN MAKING & REPAIR. See our experts when you have Screen Issues. (704) 487-5263
HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097 PAINTING, ROOFING, TILE FLOORS, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Ask for Harold or Jim 828-429-7511.
ERS 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 704-4826319 (704) 482-6319 jamesejohnson10@yahoo.com
NEEDING CLASS A CDL
DRIVER. Apply in person. Paid by the load. Auto Parts U Pull & Scrap Metal of Shelby. 1025 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152.
BUSINESS SERVICES
MCNEILLY TREE SERVICE & LAND MANAGEMENT. Tree Removal, Trimming, Demolition, Land Clearing, Firewood, Hauling Services, Debris Removal. Free Estimates. (704) 472-3766
ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, full service on lawnmowers or tractor. Honest & Reliable! (704) 300-2332
20 PLUS YEARS EXPERIENCE IN Caring for the elderly. I do light housekeeping and transportation to and from medical appointments. Please contact Cathy at 704-2971827 and leave a message. I will get back with you ASAP.
CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-
RAGE 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.
WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Reasonable rates. Call or text me at (704) 419-9016
PRESSURE WASHING, MULCHING, LANDSCAPING, BUSHES TRIMMED, DECKS RESTORED & MUCH MORE! 30 Years Experience. Free Estimates! Call (704) 692-4449
RUMMY BROTHERS TREE SERVICE. Rummy Brothers LLC is family owned and operated. We take pride in our work and would love to work for you. Fully insured with years of experience. Helping people and trees get along. Our tree specialist at Rummy Brothers provide many services ranging from tree trimming and pruning, stump grinding, clean up services, hazardous tree and limb removal, land clearing and much more! We provide 24/7 emergency tree services and offer a military discount. Give us a call today 828-748-5785 or check us out online rummybrothersllc.com (828) 748-5785 rummybrothers@gmail.com
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
BRANDON’S HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIRS. All phases of carpentry work, painting & bath remodeling. 828-388-0195.
HANDYMAN SERVICES. No job too small. Have references. Construction, landscaping, etc. Jack of all trades! 40 plus years of experience. 828375-5773.
PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE. RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICES - EXCEPTIONAL HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES. SERVICIO PROFESIONAL DE LIMPIEZA PARA CASAS Y APARTAMENTOS. (239) 222-4707 CLUNAMANTILLA@GMAIL.COM
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.
BUSINESS SERVICES
CONCRETE REMOVAL, JUNK REMOVAL, demolition, retaining walls, pavers and grading. 828-453-8113.
AUCTIONS
ONLINE AUCTIONS - 2 AUC-
TIONS. 1st Auction Starts Closing at 7:00 pm EST. on Tuesday, September 10th, 2024. 2nd Auction Starts Closing at 7 pm on Thursday, Sept 12th, 2024. WWW.EJ-AUCTION.COM
Pickup Location: Robbinsville Rd., Andrews, NC 28901. Partial Listing: Antiques, Kubota Tractor B1750, Numerous Implements, Bush Hog, Plows, Spreaders, Tools, Cast Iron Skillets, Collectible toys, Glassware, Kitchen items, Mason Jars and much more! EDWARD JOHNSON AUCTIONEERS, INC NC8134 NC8496 (828) 593-9649
ESTATE AUCTION. Living Estate of Robert Thomas Jr. ONSITE & ONLINE. Saturday, Sept. 7th, 2024 - 10 am, Location: 473 Ashe Loop Rd., Sylva, NC 28779. Partial Listing: Tractors, Tools, Implements, Mowers, Salvage Vehicles, Scrap and more! Edward Johnson Auctioneers, Inc. NC8134 NC8496 (828) 593-9649
YARD SALES
CLEVELAND COUNTY
DEER BROOK COMMUNI-
TY YARD SALE. Don’t Miss This Annual Multi-Family Yard Sale. Sat., Sept. 14, 2024. 8am - 11am. At Least 6 Homes Participating! 133 Eagles Terrace Shelby, NC 28150 PEO YARD SALE. Multi Family Yard Sale. Sat., Sept. 14th, 2024 from 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Proceeds to benefit PEO local chapter. 804 Brittain Dr., Shelby, NC 28150 FOR SALE
PEDDAL GO-CART $75.
Basketball goal $35. Total gym $25. Or trade for tree trimming work. 828-755-4199.
4 MEN’S CRUISER BICYCLES. $200 for all. Must sell! 828-782-7221.
ITEMS FOR SALE. 3 Ton Cherry Picker, Old Sears Garden Tiller (nor running), !0” Electric Tree Saw, 1 Mechanics Creeper, 2 Jack Stands, 2 Ramps. All for $300 Cash Or Best offer. 704-482-0894.
TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, Flatbed Trailers, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867
PROMOTE YOUR BUSI-
NESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704482-2243. (704) 538-5788
TWO COMPOUND BOWS and other miscellaneous archery equipment. 828-3754521.
HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855
FOR SALE
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
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
04’ TOYOTA 4-RUNNER FRONT BUMPER, still in wrap, $125; 2-seat deer
Various Sizes.
with Lids. $25 to $35 each. Call (704) 300-1818 NEW ITEMS FOR SALE Never Used. Wooden Twin Bed Frame, $100, Diamondback Mountain Bike, $250, Craftsman Leaf Blower, 4 cycle, $125. Call 704-308-1081. 2 BURIAL PLOTS ROSE HILL. 2 burial plots. Rose Hill Memorial Park, Lawndale, NC. Seller pays deed transfer fee. (704) 915-1972 nogglelw@gmail.com
OAK DINING ROOM SET with 6 chairs. Pennsylvania House furniture. 704-7343462. 14 FT. TRAMPOLINE $70. Basketball goal $35. Total gym $25. Or trade for tree trimming work. 828-755-4199. 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
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
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
TRUMP VANCE MAGNETS AND BUTTONS. Visit www. NC4Ever.com to see pics of TRUMP VANCE Magnets and Buttons for sale. NC4Ever@ USA.com
RAISED INFLATABLE
QUEEN AIR MATTRESS. 120VAC Built-in Pump. Easy to adjust and deflate. Carry Bag. Used in Quest Room. ndnorma15@gmail.com
E_Z GO GOLF CART. Black, battery powered. $3700 good condition. Contact Tommy or Janet. 704-418-6912.
DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 4774766
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
FARM & GARDEN
HOWSE 5’ DISC HARROW. 16 disc total, 3 pt. hitch, ONLY $475!!!!! 828-447-7331.
GRASSHOPPER MOWER FOR SALE. 725D Diesel, 61” deck front mount with grass pickup & hopper. Many extra parts/supplies. $3,850. 704472-6226.
HAY BALES FOR SALE. Good fresh cut this week! 4x5 large hay bales. $40 each. 828-429-4900.
SPEECO 3 POINT QUICK HITCH. (NO BUSHINGS REQUIRED) $165.00 OBO. Sells for over $250.00 Like New! (704) 718-9122
PETS & LIVESTOCK
CUTE 6WK HUSKY PUPPIES SOLD. I have two male and two female Husky puppies. They have had a shot and a deworming. Asking for a 600 dollar rehoming fee. Call 828-716-0581 (828) 7160581 laura197536@gmail. com
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,
704-434-6788.
KENNELS. 5X10X6, 10x10x4, 10x10x6, 10x20x6. Single Kennel, Double Kennel or Triple Kennel. Dog Houses. Rain Tops Available. “Pickup or Delivery Available.”
CARS & TRUCKS
2004 HONDA ODYSSEY 232,290 miles, $1200, ed@ filtersfortap.com
2007 HONDA ODYSSEY Touring Mini Van. 223,000 miles, Power windows & doorlocks, keyless entry, cruise control, entertainment system. $4,000. 704-473-5445.
2006 FORD ECONOLINE CARGO VAN E-250 Utility Van. Has ladder rack and tool & supply racks with Buckhead gate behind driver seat. 222,000 miles. Cold A/C. Automatic. New Battery & Wiper Blades. $5950.00 OBO. Call (704) 300-1818
2000 CADILLAC DEVILLE DHS. Low mileage good condition, excellent interior, fair paint. $1600. I just bought a new car. (980) 291-2605
2009 HONDA ACCORD SDN. 170,000 miles, $5800, sunroof, very good condition. Just spent $2000 on new alternator, rear brakes & sensors, etc. Tires almost new. $5800. (828) 394-8277
2011 NISSAN SENTRA. 2011 Nissan Sentra, 144,000 miles. (704) 481-7143
1997 FORD F-SUPER DUTY CHASSIS CAB XLT Package. 7.3 Diesel Power Stroke, Removable Pipe Rack. Flat Bed. 146,000 miles, PW, PDL, 5 Speed Manual, $18,500. Call (704) 300-1818
MOTORCYCLES & ATVS
2006 YAMAHA. 3300 miles. $3350. 704-692-0447.
2023 HONDA CMX REBEL 500. Blue on Black, gold rims, 6 year extended warranty, helmet with sound system included. 2000 miles. $6500. (704) 466-5880
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 BEFORE THE CLERK File No. 24 E 682
In the Matter of the Estate of:
SHIRLEY ANN CROSBY, Deceased.
Having qualified on the 19th day of August, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of Shirley Ann Crosby, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 29th day of November, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 28th day of August, 2024.
James Baxter 1336 Newton St. Shelby, NC 28150
T. Brandon Jaynes Archonix Law
412 N. Lafayette St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (8/28, 9/4, 9/11, 9/18/2024)
MOTORCYCLES & ATVS
250 HONDA FOUR
WHEELER. 2018 like new condition! Runs great. Need to sale it was Granddaughter’s, she going to college and not needed! Great deal at $2100! (704) 472-5444 billyrgreene@ gmail.com
REAL ESTATE
MECKLEBURG COUNTY
PRIVATE MONEY FINANCING! We offer Agricultural Loans, Land, Large Farm Loans, Warehouses, Investment Properties, Nationwide Commercial Properties, and Buy/Flip Loans. Over 30 years of experience. STRUCTURED FINANCING, LLC (833) 8363827 structuredfinancingnancy@gmail.com RUTHERFORD COUNTY
LAND FOR SALE, CAMP GROUND on land. Price lowered $160 to $150. 828-4530828. 3795-3925 Hollis Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040
MOBILE HOME PARK FOR SALE. $399K Mobile Home Park for Sale in Rutherfordton, NC. 10 acres with water and sewer for 10 lots, with potential for more. Right off Hwy 221, five minutes from 74 Bypass and fifteen minutes from the Tryon Equestrian Center. Located halfway between Asheville and Charlotte NC. $399K Call or text (828) 375-1576
REAL ESTATE
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
FOR SALE: 4BR, 2BA, basement, garage, also big shop building. 2.39 acres. 828-8173227, leave message. 198 Rock Corner Road, Forest City, NC 28043 FOR RENT CATAWBA COUNTY
FURNISHED CABOOSE for rent in Vale. $1650 includes utilities & internet. Private parking, patio, fire pit, in house laundry. 500 sq. ft, Tiny house, 2BR, 1BA, full size tub & refrigerator, fenced yard for dog. Contact 828-228-4016 for more information.
CLEVELAND COUNTY
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
2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE
HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, (704) 739-0259
1321-A SOUTH LAFAYETTE STREET. Shelby, NC. Apartment. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $625, Deposit $625, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-2144180.
1624-20 S. POST ROAD. Shelby, NC. Singlewide, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $875, Deposit $875, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.
135-22 WIGGINS LANES, KINGS MTN, NC. New Singlewide. 3 bedroom 2 bathrooms. Rent $1375, Deposit $1375, App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.
MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. Weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299
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 Executrix 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
COUNTRY LIVING IN KINGS MTN. 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom single wide mobile home on private lot. $1000 deposit $250 week. Background & credit check required. No pets. (704) 466-9984
3 BEDROOM, 1 BATH HOUSE. Big back deck, central heat & air. $1100 month, $1100 deposit. Polkville area. 704-240-0342.
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 DUPLEX, 112 BOWMAN STREET, Shelby, NC. 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $675, Deposit $675, App Fee $25 per Adult. 704-412-4180.
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
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
COUNTRY SETTING IN KINGS MTN. 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom doublewide mobile home on 2 acre private lot. $1200 deposit, $300 week. Background & credit check required. No Pets! (704) 4669984
116 KENTBURY DRIVE, GROVER NORTH CAROLINA. Singlewide. 2 bedroom, 1.5 bedroom. Rent $925, Deposit $925, App Fee, $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 19th of August, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of HENRY WAYNE DAVIS (24 E 679), 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, Pattie Denise King, Administratrix on or before the 4th of December, 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 4th day of September, 2024.
Pattie Denise King, Administratrix Estate of Henry Wayne Davis 325 Gold St Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (9/04, 11, 18 & 25/2024)
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)
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
FELINE WORD SEARCH
Dear Savvy Senior, If my mother needs to move into a nursing home, what are the eligibility requirements to get Medicaid coverage? Caretaking Son
Dear Caretaking, The rules and requirements for Medicaid eligibility for nursing home care are complicated and will vary according to the state your mother lives in. With that said, here’s a general, simplified rundown of what it takes to qualify.
Medicaid Eligibility
Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that covers health care for the poor, is also the largest single payer of America’s nursing home bills for seniors who don’t have the resources to pay for their own care.
(Note that some states have different names for their Medicaid program.)
Most people who enter nursing homes don’t qualify for Medicaid at first but pay for care either through long-term care insurance or out-of-pocket until they deplete their savings and become eligible for Medicaid.
To qualify for Medicaid, your mother’s
income and assets will need to be under a certain level that’s determined by your state.
Most states (except California) require that a single person have no more than about $2,000 in countable assets ($3,000 for a married couple) that includes cash, savings, investments or other financial resources that can be turned into cash.
Assets that aren’t counted for eligibility include your mother’s home if it’s valued under $713,000 (this limit is higher – up to $1,071,000 – in some states), her personal possessions and household goods, one vehicle, prepaid funeral plans and a small amount of life insurance.
But be aware that while her home is not considered a countable asset to determine eligibility, if she can’t return home, Medicaid can go after the proceeds of her house to help reimburse her nursing home costs, unless a spouse or other dependent relative lives there. (There are some other exceptions to this rule.)
After qualifying, all sources of your mother’s income such as Social Security and pension checks must be turned over to Medicaid to pay for her care, except for a small
By JIM MILLER Editor
personal needs allowance – usually between $30 and $160. You also need to be aware that your mother can’t give away her assets to qualify for Medicaid faster. Medicaid officials will look at their financial records going back five years (except in California which has a 30-month look-back rule) to root out suspicious asset transfers. If they find one, her Medicaid coverage will be delayed a certain length of time, according to a formula that divides the transfer amount by the average monthly cost of nursing home care in their state.
So, for example, if your mom lives in a state where the average monthly nursing home cost is $8,000 and she gave away cash or other assets worth $160,000, she would be ineligible for benefits for 20 months ($160,000 divided by $8,000 = 20).
Spousal Protection Medicaid also has special rules (known as the community spouse resource allowance) for married couples when one spouse enters a nursing home, and the other spouse remains at home. In these cases, the healthy spouse can keep one half of the couple’s
assets up to $154,140 (this amount varies by state), the family home, all the furniture and household goods and one automobile. The healthy spouse is also entitled to keep a portion of the couple’s monthly income – between $2,465 and $3,854. Any income above that goes toward the cost of the nursing home recipient’s care.
What about Medicare?
Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities, does not pay for long-term care. It only helps pay up to 100 days of rehabilitative nursing home care, which must occur after a three-day hospital stay.
For more information, contact your state Medicaid office. You can also get help from your State