Kings Mountain Herald 9-6-23

Liberty Mountain opens for 8th season September 15

By Loretta Cozart

The curtain will open on Friday, September 15, and Bob Inman’s play, Liberty Mountain: The Revolutionary Drama, will begin its eighth season. For the first time, Bob will perform the role of Reverend Samuel Doak.

“I may be a little creaky, but I’ll be up there in some regard during the battle itself. I’m the oldest cast member this year, and my eighteenyear-old grandson, who plays Caleb Martin, is the youngest,” Bob shares with a smile.

Liberty Mountain shares the personal trials many families faced during the Battle of Kings Mountain. When

KMFD

hosts Patriot Day Observance

Kings Mountain Fire Department will host its annual Patriot Day service, on Monday, September 11th.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m., First Baptist Church leads the observance, presenting Patriotic music, followed by guest speaker United States Air Force Master Sergeant John Whitaker.

asked why he wrote the play, Bob replied, “When I was in school, Revolutionary War history was all about Saratoga, Brandywine, Bunker Hill, Lexington, and Concord. There was nothing taught about the Southern campaign.”

When he decided to write a play about the Battle of Kings Mountain, he, Jim Champion, and Caleb Sigmon agreed that the story

See LIBERTY, Page 8A

City, KM Forward responds to story

By Loretta Cozart

On August 30, the Gaston Gazette published a story about the condemnation of the building at 124 W. Mountain Street in Kings Mountain. The story stated, “At the July 25 meeting, Kings Mountain City Council agreed to give $2,500 to Lahti as ‘a business that had been displaced by city actions.’”

The Herald reached out to City Manager Jim Palenick for comment regarding the article and received the following statement, “Upon recognizing that the building that housed the Uncommon Artisans and Medusa Coffee Company businesses was deemed to be unsafe, no longer allowable for occu-

pancy, and in such state of disrepair as to require City Council action to order repairs or face demolition, I personally approached KM Forward, through their Board President, David Stone, to inform him that the Businesses would have to find an alternate location because City Council action was likely imminent.

“I felt KM Forward was best suited to assist the

See STORY, Page 8A

Mountaineers for a Better Community hosts candidate forum

By Loretta Cozart

On Monday, October 9, at 6 p.m., Mountaineers for a Better Community (KM Better) will host a candidate forum at Central United Methodist Church’s Christian Activity Center at 113 S. Piedmont Avenue in Kings Mountain.

KM Better is a non-profit and nonpartisan organization encouraging community ed-

ucation and transparency to promote a forward-thinking vision for the future of Kings Mountain.

The forum will include mayoral and city council candidates, providing an excellent opportunity for citizens to learn more about the city's issues and how each candidate plans to address those challenges while keeping the See FORUM, Page 5A

Patriot Day is an annual observance held across America to remember those injured or died during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of those attacks. Kings Mountain Fire De-

partment is located at 106 Spruce Street. For more information on Patriot Day, contact the Kings Mountain Fire Department at 704-734-0555.

Patriot Jack’s Outfitters under new ownership

By Loretta Cozart

On Thursday, August 31, Jan and David Stone, owners of the Imperial Mercantile in downtown Kings Mountain, took ownership of Patriot Jack’s Outfitters at 832 E King St, Kings Mountain from John and Ashley Herndon.

The Stones shared that they “are thankful to John and Ashley Herndon

and their contribution to keeping Patriot Jack’s a thriving business in Kings Mountain, NC, and are excited about this new venture and the changes in store!”

Patriot Jacks Outfitters carries a variety of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories and has been locally owned and operated at this location since opening in September 2010.

Papers filed for 384-acre mixed use project in Dixon community

I nsignis Partners, an investment and real estate development firm, filed plans Wednesday with the City of Kings Mountain to rezone a 384-acre property along a growing economic development corridor. The request would facilitate a mixed-use project with up to 5 million square feet of new buildings and is one of the largest development proposals in the city’s history.

The Dixon Ridge project envisions a vibrant mix of industrial, research and development, and residential space at a key intersection on Interstate 85 near Dixon School Road. Insignis' plans

include over 57 acres of open space, pickleball and tennis courts, parks, walking trails, and a greenway trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists connecting to nearby city-owned lake properties.

The request includes an application to rezone the property to a new Planned Development District and a development agreement outlining terms between Insignis and the city. Insignis expects the project to exceed $750 million in value at full build-out. It has committed to developing the project exclusively within the City of Kings Mountain’s jurisdiction, ensuring

the city will benefit from property taxes and development and utility fees to be paid by the project. Both Insignis and Kings Mountain leaders are excited about how the project fits into the growth of Cleveland and Gaston counties. The project will help spur new economic investment and job creation, and Insignis views it as a collaborative effort with the city.

"We’re excited to introduce Dixon Ridge to the Kings Mountain, NC market," Insignis Managing Partner and Co-Founder Paul Sparks said. "Submitting our application for this

project is such a significant step forward for something that’s taken us 18 months to create and fine-tune. And now, everything becomes a lot more real, which is exciting."

Kings Mountain City Manager Jim Palenick joined the city last year after spending the past seven years in local government leadership positions in the Midwest. He's confident the proposed Dixon Ridge project will help fuel Kings Mountain's economy for years.

"We see this development as truly transformational to the community and See DIXON, Page 5A

Thrive Kings Mountain opposes Dixon Ridge development

By Loretta Cozart

Thrive Kings Mountain released a statement on Thursday, August 31, expressing their opposition to the proposed Dixon Ridge development. According to spokesperson Christina Hildebrand, the organization obtained the proposed plans and found them to be unfavorable. Specifically, Thrive

Kings Mountain opposes the proposed dense residential housing on the side of Shepard Mountain with access from Alex D Owens Drive, as well as the proposed over 3 million square feet of industrial and office space. The statement shared that the development “looks small, but these buildings will be HUGE…a football field is

57,600 sq ft. The industrial office space covers over 50 football fields. The residential area is over 40 football fields.”

The primary concern for the Shepard Mountain community is that “the topography of this area with steep hillsides, creeks, and rock formations will require significant blasting of the hillside, which will cause severe ecological

damage to the area as well as reduce property values significantly.”

In January, Thrive Kings Mountain opposed the 3.5 million square feet warehouse space proposed by development partners Insignis Partners and Panattoni Development Co. Inc. with more than 200 acres. The newly announced Dixon Ridge encompasses 300 acres.

JOHN WHITAKER

L-R: John and Ashley Herndon and Jan and David Stone.

The building located at 124 W. Mountain Street has been condemned by City of Kings Mountain.

Photo by Loretta Cozart

theran Church. He retired after 30 years of service in industrial sales from Vallen. Roy was an avid antique furniture collector and during his early years, traveled many miles searching out the best furniture. He enjoyed soaking up all the information he could about history.

Roy Lee Huffstetler Jr.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Roy Lee Huffstetler Jr., 71, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on August 30, 2023 at Atrium Health Mercy in Charlotte, NC.

He was born in Cleveland County, NC, son of the late Roy Lee Huffstetler Sr. and Doris Barrett Huffstetler and was preceded in death by 3 children, Roy Lee “Tripp” Huffstetler III, Christopher Harleigh Huffstetler, and Jennifer “Jennie” L. Huffstetler.

Roy was a lifelong member of Resurrection Lu-

Thomas William Steel

GAFFNEY, SC – Mr. Thomas William Steel,

Doris Burdett Davis

SHELBY, NC – Doris

Burdett Davis, 84, of Shelby, NC, passed away on August 29, 2023 at her home. She was born in Greenville County, SC, daughter of the late Paul and Emily Jane Willis Burdett and was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Harvey Davis, 2 sons, Mike and Tony Davis, siblings, Lucille Darnell, Clarence Burdett, J.P. Burdett, Grace Lowe, Carlos Burdett, and Carl Burdett.

Doris was a member of Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church where she loved attending until her health prevented her from going.

She worked at Winn Dixie for 20 years, retiring as the floral manager. Doris

Whiteside Huffstetler, of the home; son: Craig Huffstetler and wife Shannon, Kings Mountain, NC; grandchildren: Barrett Andrew and Oliver Wayne Huffstetler, Kings Mountain, NC; cousin and dear friend: Anita Huffstetler, Kings Mountain, NC.

Albert “Buddy” Plato Falls

SPARTANBURG, SC –

Albert “Buddy” Plato Falls passed away surrounded by his family at the Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home on Thursday, August 31, 2023. He has been healed from Parkinson’s and has been reunited with his lifelong love, Gwendolyn “Gwen” Pearson Falls. Buddy was born on January 24, 1936, in Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

He was the son of the late Gillie Falls, Sr. and Lallage Warlick Falls Holtschulte. Buddy grew up in a large

Roy especially loved learning about the history of sports, automobiles, and wars. He and Melva owned rental properties and Roy loved taking an unlivable house and turning it into a home for someone. He had a knack for turning his vision of a house into a reality. Roy was an integral part of his wife’s painting business, “The Painted Lady”. He often quipped he handled finance and transportation, Melva allowed him to count her money and drive her around. Roy was a wonderful father and husband whose strength, compassion, and love has left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years: Melva

71, of Gaffney, SC passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023.

He was born in Kings Mountain, NC on August 22, 1952 to the late Everette Lee Patterson and Annie Delores Williams Patterson.

Mr. Steel was a member at Tabernacle of Love where he served as a Deacon. He loved playing guitar, traveling, and loved going to the beach.

Left to cherish his memory in addition to his wife, Bertha Skates Steel, are his daughters, Nicole Smith (Chris), Amanda

was an avid reader and enjoyed beach trips with her family. She enjoyed cooking and feeding people. She was generous with her time and always made people feel welcome and loved in her home. Doris was always giving of herself to others and cherished making everyone feel special when they were around her. The love shown by Doris will be missed dearly by her family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Mark Davis and wife, Abby, Travelers Rest, SC and Christy Silver and husband Gary, Shelby, NC; grandchildren: Binh, Shannon, Tony, Lauren, Emma, and Hannah Davis, Josh Peterson, Stephanie Duncan, and Michael Silver; great-grandchildren: Toni Rae, Tiffany and Lilliann Davis, Grayson and Rainey Duncan, and Noah Peter-

family with lots of brothers and sisters. He is preceded in death by his wife Gwendolyn Pearson Falls, brother, Gillie Falls Jr., and sisters Jackie Falls Ruddock, Jo Ann Falls, and Sarah Katherine Falls Cobb.

Abron Plato Falls graduated from Kings Mountain High School in 1954 and joined the Air Force. After receiving a copy of his birth certificate for enlistment, he learned that his legal name had been recorded as Albert.

Upon completion of his service, Buddy attended Western Carolina University where he met Gwen. They eloped and a year later their only child Subetha was born. While supporting his family, he completed a bachelor’s degree in accounting and was a charter member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.

Buddy worked as a corporate accountant before starting his own personal accounting business. He had impressive math skills. His only grandchild, Martha Lee, enjoyed going to work

Funeral service was held on Sunday, September 3, 2023 at 2:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Scott Hardin officiating.

Visitation was held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harris Funeral Home.

Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kings Mountain Optimist Club at PO Box 121, Kings Mountain, NC 28086.

Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com. Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

Westmoreland (Joey), and Brittney Smith; and sons, Billy Smith (Jessica), Joseph Smith, and Dustin Smith; as well as 14 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. He was predeceased by his parents.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 3:00PM at Tabernacle of Love, Chesnee, SC officiated by Rev. Calvin Branch and Rev. Johnny Jones. The family will received friends at 2:00PM, one hour prior to the service.

son; siblings: Alvin Burdett and Christine Burdett, both of Marietta, SC; daughter-in-law and caregiver: Marsha Davis and special friends Tammy Porter and Betty Ivey.

Funeral service was held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 2:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Mark Davis officiating. Visitation was held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.

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

with him and quizzing him with difficult math problems, which he could solve instantly in his head.

He loved working in the yard and tending to his remarkable flowers and gardens. Growing up, his daughter, Subetha, would be right along beside him also developing his green thumb. Buddy loved to joke and have a good time, but he was an intentional friend and giver that put countless hours toward building relationships with those he loved. He was blessed by many close friendships in his life. He and his wife were longtime members of First Baptist Church of Shelby where they were a part of the Parlor Co-Ed Sunday School Class.

Buddy is survived by daughter Subetha Falls Lancaster and husband Chris of Spartanburg, SC; granddaughter Martha Lee Alexander and husband Mark of Spartanburg, SC; great-grandson Benjamin Brady Alexander of Spartanburg, SC; brothers David Falls and wife

William Keith Patterson

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – William Keith “Bill” Patterson, 66, of Cherryville, NC, passed away on September 1, 2023 at Atrium Health in Lincolnton, NC.

Born in Cleveland, NC, He was son of the late Dorothy Cook and was preceded in death by his wife of 24 years, Phyllis Gossett Patterson.

Bill enjoyed his career as a truck driver following in his fathers footsteps. He was a hard worker and one who could fix anything. He loved his dog, Ralph, grilling out steaks, and playing cards. He was a one of a kind father, son, brother, grandfather and friend who will be missed greatly.

He is survived by his children: Melissa Lynn Patterson, Lincolnton NC; Jessica Stroupe Knavel (David), Kings Mountain NC; father: Odell William Patterson, Kings Mountain, NC; sisters: Donna Lynn Reynolds, Kings Mountain NC; Rita Owens Conner (Robert), Lawndale NC; Sybil Walker, Cherryville NC; Nancy Pack (Richard), Grover NC; brother: Robert “Bobby” Risica (Olivia Armstrong), Shelby NC; grandchildren: Emily

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

AUG. 18: Alex Mackenzie Reynolds, 26, 206 Victoria Circle, failure to appear, larceny, criminal summons.

AUG. 19: Lafrea Daytonna Ross, 42, Shelby, failure to appear, simple assault, no bond.

AUG. 21: Madison Skye Gill, 23, 803 W. King Street, failure to appear, unauthorized use of vehicle, $1,500 secured bond.

AUG. 22: Shaquil Nicholas Bennett, 30, Charlotte, failure to appear, assault on campus police, failure to appear, resist, delay, obstruct; failure to appear, carry concealed weapon, $11,000 secured bond.

AUG. 22: Alvarez Carlos Sarvana, 34, Charlotte, DWI, $1,000 secured bond.

AUG. 22: Amit Paul Shergill, 39, Spartanburg, SC, assault on female, no bond.

AUG. 23: Quindon Nygee Brooks, 26, 1900 Alpine Drive, aggravated assault, felony, no bond.

AUG. 24: David Scott Noblett, 41, Hickory, damage to property, $1,000 secured bond.

AUG. 25: Heather Elizabeth Moore, Kings Mountain, failure to appear, possession of drug paraphernalia, $500 secured bond.

AUG. 27: Denis Wayne Heath, 43, 110 Benfield Road, resisting arrest, $1,000 unsecured bond.

AUG. 28: Larry Anthony Johnson, 52, Clover, SC, DWI, hit and run, no

Lena of Johnson City, TN and Jack Hamrick and wife Barbara of Hilton Head, SC; sister Diane Falls Swift of Spartanburg, SC; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial to First Baptist Church, 120 N. Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28150, or Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Davis Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 6 at 2:30 pm in the Webb Chapel at First Baptist Church of Shelby, North Carolina. A burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory on Tuesday, September 5 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfunerlhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Falls.

Thomas, Lillian Knavel and Bennett Knavel; numerous nieces and nephews and dog companion: Ralph.

Memorial service was held on Monday September 4, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel, Kings Mountain NC with Rev. Wade Dellinger officiating. Visitation was on Monday September 4, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM prior to the service in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society 1901 Brunswick Avenue #100, Charlotte NC 28207. Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com. Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services , Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

driver’s license, revoked, $7,500 secured bond.

CITATIONS

AUG. 23: Dosirea Nicole Reinhardt, 22, 612 Charles Street, 34, expired tag.

AUG. 24: Cedrick Monea Huskey, 29, 520 Harmon Court, revoked license.

AUG. 27: Brooke Floyd, 31, 348 Crocker Road, unsafe movement.

AUG. 28: Herman Lee Tate Jr., 43, Gaffney, SC, no operator’s license.

AUG. 29: Kajaha McManus, 21, Charlotte, expired tag, no inspection, speeding in a school zone.

AUG. 29: Rhonda Armstrong, 50, 101 Lois Lane, speeding.

AUG. 29: Zora Black, Sterling Drive, impeding the normal movement of traffic.

INCIDENTS

AUG. 17: Ingles, 2111 Shelby Road, reported a customer presented counterfeit money.

AUG. 22: Battleground Petroleum, 724 York Road, reported $1,500 estimated damage to the front door of the service station.

AUG. 24: Cleveland Animal Hospital, 103 S. Watterson Street, reported damage to flood lights.

AUG. 26: A resident of Campbell Circle reported a break-in and theft of a 32inch TV.

WRECKS

AUG. 18: Officer Butler said Tamara Cherka, Shelby, operating 2021 Toyota, and Norma Jean Waldsmith, Grover, operating a 2006 Chevrolet,

Are

were both backing their vehicles at the same time from Grace Christian Academy, 420 Branch Street, and hit. Property damage was estimated at $1,700.

AUG. 22: Officer Graham said Pamela Belt Boone, Wilson Acres Drive, was attempting to park beside an unoccupied vehicle at Love’s Fish Box, and struck the 2014 Honda owned by Barbara Hardin, 4810 Barrett Road. Estimated property damage was $3,200.

AUG. 23: Officer Matheson said Sandra Mullen Smith, 319 Somerset Drive, operating a 2008 Honda, stopped to let a firetruck running emergency traffic pass. Her car was struck by a 2002 Chevrolet operated by James Cody Smith, Cameron Dive. Damage to Sandra Smith’s vehicle was estimated at $2,000. Damage to James Smith’s vehicle was estimated at $500.

AUG. 26: Officer Price said Bryant Courtney Paysour, 115 Branchwood Circle, operating a 2018 Genesis, was traveling NC161 at the intersection of Woodside Drive. Paysour said he swerved to miss a deer, ran off the road and hit the northeast corner of East Elementary School, 600 Cleveland Avenue. Paysour climbed out of the passenger side of the vehicle and was transported by Cleveland EMS to Caromont Regional Hospital in Gastonia. Property damages were estimated at $10,000 to the school building and $10,000 to the vehicle.

Claudia

231

Death in traffic crash Friday

On Friday, September 1, at 07:23 a.m., the Kings Mountain Police Department responded to the U.S. 74 bypass near the I-85/Hwy 29 exit ramp for a traffic crash. Upon arrival, officers were notified that a single car had struck a pedestrian in the roadway.

Officers located the pedestrian just off the roadway unresponsive. Upon arrival of Gaston County EMS, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Driver of the vehicle was identified as Kevin Mullin, 36, of Forest City, NC. Mullin suffered no injuries in the crash.

A diligent search of the victim’s person and personal property was conducted; however, no identification was located. At the time of this release, the victim has not been identified. Kings Mountain is asking for the public’s assistance to identify the victim in this incident.

The victim is described as a white male, approximately 25 to 35 years old, between 5’9 – 6’0 tall, and weighing 140-150 pounds. He wore plaid green/brown/blue colored shorts, a lime green shirt, black socks, and brown slipper shoes.

Anyone with information pertaining to this

incident is encouraged to contact the Kings Mountain Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division (704) 734-0444 or submit a tip through Gaston County CrimeStoppers Tip line at 704861-8000 or Cleveland County CrimeStoppers Tip line at 704-481-8477.

Kings Mountain Police thanked Kings Mountain Fire Rescue, Gaston County EMS, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation for their assistance. The crash is still under investigation.

SHP member involved in shooting during pursuit

A preliminary investigation has revealed that on Friday, September 1, at approximately 1:08 a.m., a member of the State Highway Patrol attempted a traffic stop on I-40 westbound near the 322-mile marker in Johnston County for a speeding violation. The involved black Nissan Rogue was clocked speeding 101-m.p.h. in a 70-m.p.h. zone. The driver failed to stop for emergency equipment, and a pursuit ensued west towards Wake County. During the pursuit, a Johnston County Sheriff’s Office member joined the pursuit in a supporting role.

The pursuit continued on I-40 west until the

suspect exited onto Hammond Road. The driver made several additional turns until crashing into an open grassy lot at the intersection of East St. and Branch St. in the city of Raleigh. Law enforcement officers attempted to take the driver into custody when the operator of the suspect vehicle produced a firearm and fired upon them. The involved officers returned fire, striking the suspect. The suspect was transported to Wake Medical, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect is identified as Jaylen Latrelle Routt, 20 years old, of Fayetteville, NC. He was currently wanted for multiple charges from

Cumberland County, including murder. The involved State Highway Patrol member is identified as Master Trooper Harrison Nazal, a 10-year veteran assigned to Troop C, District 6(Johnston County).

In accordance with agency protocol in any trooper-involved shooting, the involved member will be placed on administrative duty. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is conducting an independent investigation of the incident. Any further inquiries into this incident should be directed to the SBI due to their separate ongoing investigation.

GCPD needs help in larceny case

On Monday, August 28, at 4:20 p.m., suspects driving the pictured vehicle stole equipment from a person who maintains the lawns at two homes located near Ashebrook Park Road in Dallas. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a gray Ford EcoSport, but it did not have a registration plate displayed.

Once the suspects entered the driveway, the passenger exited the vehicle and ran a short distance to grab a backpack blower and a weed trimmer. The passenger fell on the way back to the vehicle, dropped the equipment, and lost a light-colored

slide shoe. The passenger got up, grabbed the backpack blower, and jumped back into the vehicle.

As the driver backed out of the driveway their vehi-

cle almost struck a pick-up truck before leaving the area.

The equipment stolen was a Stihl backpack blower. The weed trimmer was left behind.

If you are the driver of the pick-up truck that almost collided with the suspect vehicle or have any information regarding this case, please contact Officer R. Proctor with the Gaston County Police Department at 704-866-3320 or Crime Stoppers of Gaston County at 704-861-8000.

Please reference the case number 2023-00071388.

GCPD describes the vehicle used in the theft as a gray, Ford EcoSport.

Suspect running to steal a backpack blower and a weed trimmer. Photos by GPD

Suspect carrying stolen equipment runs back to the vehicle.

Illegal Chinese-owned biochemical lab discovered in CA last March

Earlier this week, I read a story from California about a secret biological lab discovered in March in the Fresno County farm town of Reedley. The lab, owned by a Chinese company called Prestige Biotech, Inc., contained over 800 biological materials and chemicals on site, including blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids, as well as thousands of unlabeled vials that contained fluids. Codes enforcement investigated the facility because an illegal garden hose had been attached.

LORETTA COZART

During the investigation, they also discovered nearly 1,000 bioengineered mice that were genetically engineered to catch and carry the COVID-19 virus. With 178 mice found dead, the county euthanized the other 773 mice after being advised to do so by a veterinarian.

The CDC inspected the warehouse in May and found bacterial and viral agents such as chlamydia, E. Coli, streptococcus pneumonia, hepatitis B and C, herpes 1 and 5, rubella, and malaria.

Fresno County Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the

FBI, the California Department of Public Health, and other agencies were brought in to deal with the situation. Yes, we have not heard about this on a national level. This is a big and important story for all Americans to know.

On August 23, the United States Congress Select Committee on the Coronavirus Pandemic requested more information regarding this from the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

“According to recent reports, a Chinese company called Prestige Biotech, Inc. (Prestige) was operating a dangerous and unlicensed laboratory in Fresno County, California. These reports indicate that the laboratory was conducting potentially dangerous experiments. It is highly concerning that an unlicensed lab operated by a Chinese company on American soil was apparently conducting dangerous research involving COVID-19 and other viruses.

“We are committed to investigating the origin of COVID-19, but also assessing the federal government’s ability to keep America safe from biological threats. This assessment is critical to bolstering our ability to prepare for and prevent future pandemics.

Further, it is clear from court documents that the FBI and CDC are involved in this matter. Therefore, we request documents and communications relevant to our inquiry and in the custody and control of the Bureau and Department.

“On March 10, 2023, the City of Reedley, California (City) applied for a search warrant to investigate a property believed to be an illegal and unlicensed laboratory. The City stated, ‘[i]t appears that the owners and/or occupants of the Property may also be using various dangerous chemicals and/ or materials in their unpermitted laboratory activities in the locked portion of the structure that may pose serious health and safety risks.’

“On March 16, 2023, various City and Bureau officials executed a search warrant and found “several hundred mice that…have been genetically modified to catch and carry the COVID-19 virus.” The mice were being kept in dangerous and unsafe conditions. The city stated, “[t] he tenant has been unable to provide evidence of any state or federal licenses or certifications that would permit the breeding and experimentation being conducted on these mice.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Division of Select Agents and Toxins inspected the lab and determined at least 20 potentially infectious agents were stored under inadequate conditions. This included Chlamydia trachomatis, E. coli, Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and 2 (HIV), Malaria, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, known as COVID-19). According to

documents, a purported representative of Prestige made false statements and claimed no infectious agents were stored at the laboratory.

“To assist us in investigating not only what occurred in this case but also in developing policies to help prevent future pandemics, we request the following documents and information as soon as possible but no later than September 6, 2023:

1. All documents and

communications, between or among employees or contractors of the Bureau regarding Prestige Biotech, Inc. or Universal Meditech, Inc.

2. All documents and communications between or among the Bureau and other federal, state, or local government entities, including but not limited to the Department of Health and Human Services, the California Department of See LAB, Page 5A

Looking Back Biden, Trump, and world issues… fervor or fever?

By Loretta Cozart

Looking back at the stores that were once in downtown Kings Mountain is interesting. For decades, Roses was an anchor in the downtown area. Downtown was always vibrant and busy, with many people working hard to keep Kings Mountain citizens supplied with the necessities of life.

On January 1, 1975, Mrs. Robert Ruff received the keys to the Kings Mountain Roses store and became the new manager, succeed-

ing P. H. Wilson, who had been a member of the Roses staff since 1936 and the manager of the Kings Mountain store for 17 years. Wilson retired on December 31, 1974, and he congratulated Mrs. Robert Ruff on assuming the management post. Mrs. Ruff had also joined the local store 17 years before and had been a checkout person and office assistant.

Wilson’s wife, Mary Carpenter, was a cashier and insurance clerk at Kings Mountain Hospital, a position she held

“Between May 2 and 4, 2023, staff from the

for several years. The couple had three children: Mary Scott Yarbro, James Wilson (of Kings Mountain), and Robert Wilson (of Shelbyville, KY).

Mr. Wilson was a native of Tennessee, graduated from the Bristol school system, and worked for the Roses chain in that area for many years before moving to Kings Mountain.

In Kings Mountain, he and his family were active in First Presbyterian Church, where Mr. Wilson is an Elder.

Every day in America we hear the names of President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump mentioned on various news television or radio stations. We daily hear about the struggles of Ukraine and Russia. Border security, illegal immigrants, inner city issues, and China – all are almost daily themes. How could we ever get through a day in America without hearing these ongoing names, themes, and issues? It doesn’t seem like we can, especially if we daily watch the national news.

Many of us don’t want to live with our heads in the sand thinking the world is a cozy place, with everyone living in unity. Most of us understand the world has problems and political personalities that we either admire or abhor or can’t live without.

However, most of us have our breaking point when it comes to the daily fodder of political jockeying, mudslinging

and media grids and gridlocks committed to swaying how you are supposed to feel about different candidates or world problems.

Recently, I attended my high school senior class reunion and thoroughly enjoyed the gathering of old classmates. We caught up on old times, old ballgames, previous teachers, and administrators, as well as how life is going today. We remembered those who are already deceased and heard some funny stories and jokes. We shared food together and enjoyed small talk, laughs, and some hugs. The line often repeated throughout the evening was, “You sure are looking good.” This was an honest compliment for the most part because old friends always look good. An old classmate or someone who shared years of school history with you is typically a welcomed sight.

I couldn’t help but noticing, as the evening wound down, that I didn’t hear anybody wanting to argue about politics or political candidates. I didn’t hear anyone worried that China might invade Taiwan. There wasn’t any discussion about

our border or America’s growing homeless crisis. Our two-plus hours were spent simply enjoying each other, reminiscing, and having a few laughs. A lot of good, admiring words were shared between people, making for an enjoyable evening. We had a two-hour successful gathering that didn’t involve the top news stories of the week or the bad stuff that we hear about every day.

Taking a break off from all the mainstream daily tensions that divide many of us would be a novel idea for all of us. Take a break from it all, at least occasionally. Just focus on kindness, friendship, helping people, and being good to each other.

You’ll have ample opportunity to express your frustrations when you vote or when you decide to watch a political debate. There are plenty of those coming. If you start feeling like you are an indifferent observer or listener and detached from reality, then you can always turn on the evening news to have your fervor or fever reignited.

is only through labor and painful effort, by grim energy and resolute courage, that we move on to better things. –Theodore Roosevelt

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Pictured in 1975 L-R: P.H. Wilson and Mrs. Robert Ruff

Real Kosher Ice Cream Cups recalled by the FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections potentially linked to Soft Serve On The Go ice cream cups produced by Real Kosher Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY on August 10. Based on epidemiological data provided by CDC, both sick people reported eating Soft Serve On The Go vanilla chocolate ice cream before getting sick. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture collected an unopened sample of Soft Serve On The Go from an ill person’s home. This sample was reported as positive for Listeria monocytogenes.

Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis is still pending to determine whether this is the same strain of Listeria causing illness in this outbreak.

In response to these findings, Real Kosher Ice Cream has been cooperating with the FDA investigation and voluntarily recalled all flavors of Soft Serve On The Go 8-oz cups. This product was distributed to retailers in CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, IL, MA, MD, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, VA, WV. Real Kosher Ice Cream has temporarily stopped production of these

DIXON

From Page 1A the region," Palenick said. "Much like Research Triangle Park has come to define the Raleigh-Durham metro, Dixon Ridge presents a similarly seminal opportunity for the future of Kings Mountain."

“Dixon Ridge is an exciting project that has been planned with the utmost care to be what the de-veloper and city desire for the future of Kings Mountain. It addresses our housing needs and provides good paying jobs for our citizens,” Mayor Neisler said. “Thanks to our city manager and Insignis Partners’ Development team for working so hard on this project that took many months

products.

• Soft Serve On The Go

Vanilla Chocolate

• Soft Serve On The Go

Razzle

• Soft Serve On The Go

Caramel

• Soft Serve On The Go

Vanilla Chocolate

Parve

• Soft Serve On The Go

Sorbet Strawberry Mango

• Soft Serve On The Go

Lite Peanut Butter Throw the product away or return to place of purchase

to hammer out. It also serves as a template for future development that will surely streamline the pro-cess of our city's economic development to keep our city moving forward ”

The rezoning and development agreement filing begins a public process to unfold over the next several months. Both Kings Mountain staff and elected officials will review the project moving forward.

Parker Poe partner Jamie Schwedler, leader of the firm's Development Services Industry Team, and associate Matthew Carpenter serve as land use attorneys for Insignis and have worked closely with City of Kings Mountain staff.

2023 Community Health Assessment Underway

Local agencies work together to assess community needs and plan programs to address issues

for a full refund. Consumers may contact Real Kosher Ice Cream’s Soft Serve On The Go team at: 845-668-4346 or info@softserveonthego. com. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

FDA’s investigation is ongoing. Updates to this advisory will be provided as they become available.

FORUM

From Page 1A growth of the local economy at the forefront.

The forum will also allow candidates to share their vision for Kings Mountain and why they are running for office. This free event is open to the public. During the forum, candidates will answer questions critical to the community. The event will be recorded during the forum and later air on Cleveland Community College’s C19.

Early voting will occur from October 19 through November 4; election day is Tuesday, November 7. Kings Mountain Polling locations are Patrick Senior Center, 909 E King Street, Kings Mountain, and Mauney Memorial Library, 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain. It is important to note that photo IDs are now required for all municipal

In an effort to improve the healthw of our community, the Cleveland County Health Department is conducting a comprehensive Community Health Assessment (CHA). The role of a CHA is to identify factors that affect the health of a population and determine the availability of resources within the community to address these factors. A CHA has been conducted in Cleveland County every four years since 1985, with the most recent assessment published in 2019. These assessments contain a wealth of information about critical issues in Cleveland County and have been used by county agencies to develop, implement and evaluate services and programs for local residents.

Local partners serving on a Community Health Assessment Steering Committee have developed a 2023 Community Health Assessment Survey for community members and will review the data once it is collected. Community participation is extremely important. This is your opportunity to have a voice in local programming that affects the future health

elections.

If you do not know your Polling Place, visit the Cleveland County Board of Elections at 15 Patton Dr. in Shelby or call (704) 484-4858.

KM Better has three main goals:

• To foster conversations with the community about our collective future – what it holds and how we get there. We will always prioritize transparency, accountability, and engage-ment when it comes to City Government.

• To add knowledgeable voices to important conversations – to ensure that ALL citizens are involved and educated when it comes to important issues facing our city.

• To create change – for the better. This comes from engagement and education, but also col-lective action towards a forward-looking vision for Kings Mountain. For more information about Mountaineers for a Better Community, please visit https://www.betterkm.com.

Scan UR Code to complete survey process.

of Cleveland County. The survey will open September 1, 2023, and the deadline to respond is September 30, 2023.

The survey process is being conducted in two formats this year—electronic and hardcopy. Community members may complete the survey online by going to the following website or QR code (above): https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/ClevelandCounty2023HealthAs-

sessment Participation in the online survey is confidential. At the close of the survey, participants will be offered the opportunity to register for a chance to win one of seven Amazon gift cards in the amounts of 1 @ $750, 2 @ $500, and 4 at $250.

Don’t have internet access or prefer a paper copy?

Community members may also pick up a hardcopy of the 2023 Community Health Assessment survey at any of the following locations: Patrick Senior Center in Kings

LAB

From Page 4A

Public Health, the California Department of Toxic Substance Control, the Office of the Governor of California, Fresno County, or the City of Reedley, regarding Prestige Biotech, Inc. or Universal Meditech, Inc.

“The Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic is authorized to investigate “the origins of the Coronavirus pandemic” and “the implementation or effectiveness of any Federal law or regulation applied, enacted, or under consideration to address the coronavirus pandemic and prepare for future pandemics.” To that end, the Select Subcommittee is tasked to learn from the U.S. response to

Mountain, Neal Senior Center in Shelby, all Cleveland County YMCA branches, Mt. Calvary Community Center, Davidson Association of Kings Mountain, Shelby Housing Authority, Mauney Memorial Library in Kings Mountain, Spangler Library in Lawndale, Young Library in Shelby, Cleveland County Chamber, and Cleveland County Health Department.

Completed surveys may be returned where you picked them up or dropped off at the front desk of the Cleveland County Health Department located at 200 S Post Rd, Shelby, NC 28152. They may also be mailed to the Cleveland County Health Department to the attention of Anne Short. Individuals who complete the hardcopy format may also register for a chance to win the gift cards. Community Health Assessments are conducted in all counties in North Carolina on a three to four year cycle to provide residents with up-to-date information about issues and needs in their counties. Agencies throughout the county will use the information collected from the 2023 CHA to set priorities, plan programs, and begin new initiatives.

the COVID-19 pandemic and recommend alterations where necessary to enhance our preparedness and responses in the future.”

The United States Congress Select Committee on the Coronavirus Pandemic has given the FBI and the CDC until Wednesday, September 6, to share documents and communications relevant to their inquiry in each agency’s custody and control.

I wonder why we have not determined the origin of COVID-19. Why have those individuals responsible for the deaths of seven million people not been held accountable for their actions and brought to justice? It baffles me. Why are we not asking these questions? Perhaps this investigation will lead us to the smoking gun.

Real Kosher Ice Cream Cups recalled by the FDA after Listeria outbreak. Photo provided

Rendering of Dixon Ridge provided by Insignis Partners.

Quit your Stinkin’ Thinkin’

Have you found yourself angrier than usual this last year or two?

Have you felt an enormous sense of fear, anxiety, or depression? You are not alone. According to several polls and research groups, anger and stress levels of American teenagers and adults are at an alltime high. While I will not get into all the specific triggers and stressors in this article, studies reveal Americans now live with a higher baseline of anxiety and anger. It is no wonder that life seems to be on the edge of nega-

tivity and worst-case scenarios.

To be sure, it’s not that we shouldn’t prepare ourselves and plan for life’s conflicts and trials, but we shouldn’t constantly dwell on the worst. One of my former professors put it this way, “Quit Your Stinkin’ Thinkin’!” Professor Farris was well known on campus for this concise and colloquial phrase, but there is great truth in this statement, and it has stuck with me all these years. This simple statement can correlate to the writings of the Apostle Paul. To a greater degree, Paul poi-

gnantly recognizes the needs of the Philippians as well as a solution for those needs. Paul proclaims,

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)

Not only does Paul instruct the Philippians, and us what to do when anxiety comes in life, but Paul provides ways to give us

peace amid life’s daily stressors. Notice the word “anxious” literally means double-minded. When we believers fail to go to the Lord and let anxiety consume us, we are being double-minded. We are children of God, yet we rely on our efforts to get us through our strength. Let’s face it: we all have our fair share of problems to deal with in this world. From personal struggles to global issues, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose sight of what’s essential.

Paul goes even further in verse 8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever

is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about such things.” Paul encouraged them and us to pray, present our requests to God, and think about the good things every day. How different would our days go if we honestly thought about, prayed about, and sang about the noble, right, pure, and lovely things? I can tell you that while writing this today, my attitude and day have improved. I challenge us all this week to think about these things. During the month of September, we will address specific stressors and situations and how Scripture answers life’s challenges.

www.momsinprayer.org

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

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

Emmanuel Independent Baptist Church 102 Canterbury Road 704-730-7855

Faith Ablaze Church 1128 S. York Road 704-739-8496

Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road

Faith Holiness Church Hwy. 161/ Bessemer City Rd. 704-739-1997

Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206

First Baptist Church 605 W. King Street 704-739-3651

Good Hope Presbyterian Church 105 N. Cansler Street 704-739-1062

Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888

Grace United Methodist Church 830 Church Street 704-739-6000

Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714

Kings Mountain Baptist Church 101 W. Mountain Street 704-739-2516

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

Anew Beginning Baptist Church 145 Battleground Dr. 704-473-1372

Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700

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

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan Carson Memorial Baptist Church 262 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-2247

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

Cherokee St. Baptist Church 421 S. Cherokee Street 704-739-7697 Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church 618 Chestnut Ridge Road 704-739-4015

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

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

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

Connections Church 306 N. Piedmont Ave. 704-750-4972

Cornerstone Church Of God 202 Margrace Road 704-689-4430

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Crowders Mountain Baptist 125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310

David Baptist Church 2300 David Baptist Ch. Rd. 704-739-4555

Dixon Presbyterian Church 602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com

East Gold Street Wesleyan Church 701 E. Gold Street 704-739-3215

East Kings Mountain Church of God Hwy 161, Bessemer City/ KM Hwy. 704-739-7367

Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055

Ebenezer Baptist Church 1621 County Line Road 704-739-8331

El Bethel United Methodist Church 122 El-bethel Road 704-739-9174

First Church of the Nazarene 121 Countryside Road 704-734-1143

First Presbyterian Church 111 E. King Street 704-739-8072

First Wesleyan Church 505 N. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-4266

Galilee United Methodist 117 Galilee Church Road 704-739-7011

Gloryland Missionary Baptist Church 101 Benfield Rd. 704-740-7212

Gospel Assembly Church 202 S. Railroad Avenue 704-739-5351

Life of Worship Ministries 405 S. Cherokee St. 704-777-2927

King’s City Church 1128 York Road 704-739-8496

Lighthouse Ministries 1908 Shelby Rd. Kings Mountain Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406

Love Valley

and hearing by the word of God.

Romans 10:17

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Hebrews 11:6

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous.Be strong. I Corinthians 6:13

Dr. Jonathan M. Bundon

Worship Pastor First Baptist Church

The Patrick Senior Center in Kings Mountain is holding its Annual Yard Sale/Bake Sale/Craft Sale on Friday, September 15, from 9 a.m. until Noon.

goods, and other items for sale. The public is welcome to shop that morning. Tables will be set up both outside and inside the center. Proceeds from the Patrick

will all go toward the Patrick Center Pet Food Pantry.

The Patrick Center is at 909 E King Street in Kings Mountain, NC. For more information, call the Patrick

Imagine yourself under the twinkling lights of the Bobby Bell Pavilion on a cool October evening, surrounded by friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Soft music echoes under the shade of the Pavilion behind the chorus of conversation flowing across the elegant farm-style table. Celebrate, and listen to the stories of local farmers sharing their produce as you enjoy a 5-course meal finished onsite by a talented team of culinary artists and chefs.

Photo

Old North

will

and growth. Jamie local ingredients grown right here in Cleveland County. For more information, visit uptownshelby.com. Your year of Discovery with Girl Scouts is right around the corner!

Are you ready for amazing new adventures this year?

Conduct a science experiment. Take the stage in your first talent show. Ride a horse. Build a robot. Make s’mores around

the campfire. You can do all this and more as a Girl Scout. Join Girl Scouts today and get ready for your best year ever!

Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont (GSCP2P) is cur-

rently forming troops and recruiting new leaders for the new troop year this fall. All girls in grades K-12 are invited to join.

Girls and their families who are interested in learning more about Girl Scouting and troop opportunities in their area can find several Girl Scout Information Events happening throughout western and central North Carolina by visiting the online calendar at www. girlscoutsp2p.org.

Why does Girl Scouts work? Girl Scouts encourages teamwork and collaboration, as well as independence and self-discovery. It helps girls learn and apply the skills- like positive values, healthy relationships and a strong sense of self- they need today and throughout their lives. Girl Scouts learn vital leadership skills and work collaboratively to solve problems. They gain the confidence and social skills they need to succeed in life, school, their communities and their careers. And as active members of the organization and community, Girl Scouts will be better prepared for life’s challenges and know how to be problem-solvers when needed.

“There’s no limit to what girls can do as Girl Scouts,” says Jennifer Wilcox, CEO of See SCOUTS, Page 8A

TEXAS TORNADO CAKE

Elizabeth Johnson

1 ½ cups sugar

2 tsp. baking soda

17 oz. can fruit cocktail including juice

2 cups flour

2 eggs

Put all ingredients in blender or food processor and mix well. Pour into 9x13-inch pan. Sprinkle with brown sugar and chopped walnuts.

ICING

Melt one stick butter, add ¾ cup sugar, one cup coconut, ¾ cup evaporated milk, ½ tsp. vanilla. Boil for 2 minutes and pour over hot cake.

BLUEBERRY POUND CAKE

Estelle Stanley

1 box yellow cake mix

½ cup oil

8 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature

3 eggs

2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen

Mix all ingredients with mixer. Grease and flour Bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

LEMON LIGHTS

Mary Williams-Davis

1 box lemon cake mix, without pudding

5 oz. carton Cool Whip

1 egg beaten

½ cup confectioner’s sugar Grease cookie sheet. Mix cake mix, topping, and egg in a large bowl. Roll spoonful’s of the dough in a small plate of confectioner’s sugar. Place on cookie sheet 1-2 inches apart. Bake 12 minutes in pre-heated oven at 350 degrees. Remove to rack to cool. Makes 4 dozen.

PUMPKIN CHIFFON PIE

Susan Templex

Ed. Note: The recipes in today’s Cooking Corner are from “Star Spangled Recipes,” a cookbook published by American Legion Auxiliary of North Carolina.

1 ½ cups canned pumpkin

1 pkg. Knox gelatin

½ tsp. salt

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

½ tsp. cinnamon

¼ tsp. nutmeg

¼ tsp. ginger

2 egg yolks

1/3 cup milk

2 egg whites

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2 cups mini marshmallows

9-inch baked pastry shell

Combine first 9 ingredients. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly until mixture boils. Cool.

In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry. Gradually add granulated sugar while beating. Fold egg whites into pumpkin mixture together with marshmallows. Pour into prepared pastry shell. Chill until firm.

Keep Kings Mountain beautiful; Fall Litter Sweep in September

KM City Council has proclaimed September 16 – 20 as the official “Fall Litter Sweep” and encourages civic and professional groups, businesses, churches, schools, families, and individuals to participate in the Department of Transportation cleanup by sponsoring and organizing local roadside cleanups. Now is the perfect time

STORY

From Page 1A to-be-displaced businesses in finding a suitable site for relocation within the Kings Mountain Downtown. Mr. Stone then immediately approached the Uncommon Artisans owner, Ms. Lahti to inform her of the likely pending Council action and to offer assistance in securing an adequate location in Kings Mountain to relocate.

“Further discussions between the City and KM Forward resulted in the City and KM Forward agreeing, and City Council approving (on July 25th), that the City of Kings Mountain would approve an amendment to our contract with KM Forward to increase their contractual compensation by $2500, with the understanding that KM Forward would, in turn, match that amount with an additional $2500 in its own funds, to provide for up to $5,000 total in Grant assistance to

to spruce up your yard and clean up your property for Fall. Get out of the house and enjoy the warm sunshine by picking up trash, cutting tall grass, and mowing your yard.

This is also your opportunity to rid your property of junk and debris like old windows, doors, automobiles, and bicycles. A beautiful, well-main-

aid in covering portions of expenses, including possible increases in rent, toward relocating the Uncommon Artisans and Medusa Coffee to an alternate relocation site within Downtown Kings Mountain.

“There was to be no payments or stipends to the displaced businesses simply because of displacement, but rather the City and KM Forward came together to create, in essence, an economic development grant opportunity that would be available if and when a suitable relocation site was identified, and the business(es) moved thereto. The Grant funding rests with KM Forward and any determination of eligibility for, or distribution of said monies rests with that entity.

The Herald also requested a statement from KM Forward’s David Stone, and received this reply, “In my capacity as President of KM Forward, I want to share that the facts the city manager outlined are consistent with how the city engaged KM Forward.

tained yard adds curb appeal and value to your home, creates an inviting atmosphere for you and your family to play or relax outside, adds charm to the community, and makes the city an attractive place to live, work, and play.

Let’s welcome Fall by cleaning up lawn, litter, and junk debris on your property to enhance our

“KM Forward immediately reached out to the business owners of Uncommon Artisan and Gold Medusa Coffee to communicate the impending condemnation. KM Forward pulled together also to try to assist by asking the city to provide the businesses with 30 days to vacate which the city granted in the July city council meeting. We also contacted other property owners to try and connect the business owners with potential leasable space in the city of Kings Mountain.

“Lastly, KM Forward, recognizing that this condemnation was not the first the city has initiated on a downtown property, determined the need to support businesses impacted by condemnations, and created a Condemnation Grant program.

“The condemnation grant is available to businesses in the Central Business District who become impacted by building condemnations when the building owners don't maintain their buildings. The guidelines for that pro-

city and homes. For more information about city solid waste pickup or to schedule the pickup of large items like old cars, please call Kings Mountain Public Works at 704-734-0735. Thank you for helping keep Kings Mountain beautiful.

gram have been emailed to the business owner. If the business owner meets the terms of the condemnation grant which require that they relocate in the Central Business District, they can apply for the grant.

“Please note that this is the first grant program established by KM Forward and as a new organization with the mission to Build a community of citizens and business leaders to advocate for Kings Mountain as a place to live, play, shop, explore, and invest. Promoting the economic, social, and cultural environment throughout the city, we plan over the next year to identify other opportunities to support the economic development of our local business community.”

If you want to watch the July city council meeting, visit vimeo.com/showcase/ cityofkm, click on the meeting date, and click the blue “Start Watching” button.

We want to hear from you!

take the 2023 Community Health Assessment: Sept. 1st - Sept. 30th

Coffee

and conversation with KM City Manager

By Loretta Cozart

Mark your calendar for City of Kings Mountain’s Coffee & Conversation with City Manager Jim Palenick from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, September 15, at Kings Mountain Family YMCA at 211 Cleveland Ave. in Kings Mountain.

If you are interested in what’s going on in Kings Mountain or have questions you would like to ask, meet the new city manager to start a conversation.

SCOUTS

From Page 7A GSCP2P. “Our organization helps girls discover their passions, find their voice, build lifelong friendships and make a difference in their world. And the great thing about the Girl Scout program? It integrates seamlessly into what girls are already learning in school and in their communities, setting them up for success in all they do.”

Opportunities to participate in Girl Scouts in both a troop setting or as an individually registered girl are available. With both options, girls can participate in council and

LIBERTY

From Page 1A had to be historically accurate. So, Bob did his research and leaned heavily upon the works of three historians: UNC-Charlotte Professor Dan Morrill, USC Professor Walter Edgar, and one of Bob’s college professors at the University of Alabama, John Pancake. “These three men wrote seminal works that helped me tremendously in writing the play,” Bob said.

But the story is also personal for Bob because he descends from Col. James Williams, the highest-ranking officer at the Battle of Kings Mountain. William’s two sons were with him and participated in the battle. “Williams was shot by a Loyalist who didn’t want to surrender, and he died the next day in Rutherford County. His body was later exhumed, and he is buried on the grounds of a library in Gaffney, SC,” Bob explains.

JIM PALENICK CITY MANAGER

community partnership programming, community service initiatives, the annual cookie program and so much more. Interested in being a volunteer? Volunteer opportunities range from being a troop leader for the year to volunteering on an episodic basis, where you can share a special skill or talent with girls as needed. More information about volunteering can be found at https://www. girlscoutsp2p.org/en/get-involved/become-a-volunteer. html.

Ready to join today? Visit www.BeAGirlScout.org. You can also find out more information about Girl Scouting in your area or starting a new troop by contacting info@girlscoutsp2p. org or 800-672-2148.

that. We feel like this country has been given to us,” Bob said. “It was not given to us; we had to fight for it. That is what the Battle of Kings Mountain is about. People were fighting for their homes, their families, and their faith, and I want people to understand that this affects all of us right now. It’s not just something that happened 200-plus years ago. Good people rose up for a common cause.”

“America has gone through periods of difficulty, and we are in a period of difficulty right now, but somehow, we have always muddled through. Today, we have divisions over political ideology, and I’m sure people did during the Revolution, too. But they got together and got the job done. And we can do that today.”

Share the link with friends & family

Your feedback is important to us. We want to ensure that you are heard and kept in Mind when planning and implementing community health programs and policies.

enter to win A gift card

It only takes 10-15 minutes to complete a survey!

Complete a survey online or a paper copy for a chance to win an Amazon gift card. Amazon Gift Cards – one valued at $750, two valued at $500 and four valued at $250. Winners will be selected using a computer-generated random number drawing program.

Paper copies available at the following locations:

• Patrick Senior Center, Kings Mountain

• Neal Senior Center, Shelby

• Dover Foundation YMCA

• Ruby Hunt YMCA

• Kings Mountain YMCA

• Mt. Calvary Community Center

• Davidson Association, Kings Mountain

• Shelby Housing Authority

• Mauney Memorial Library, Kings Mountain

• Spangler Library, Lawndale

• Young Library, Shelby

• Cleveland County Chamber

• Cleveland County Health Department

Scan the QR code or visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ClevelandCounty2023HealthAssessment 200

The creative team has also been working hard to keep the story fresh for those who may have seen the play in years past, so several new scenes have been added this season. They follow two rules when adding new scenes: First, the play must be historically accurate, and second, it must entertain keeping in context with rule number one.

Bob shares his thoughts on the Revolutionary War in the South, “This area, here, Tennessee, Virginia, they were backwoodsmen. They didn’t have much, so the King could not do much to them. They just wanted to be left alone and didn’t want the King, or anyone else, telling them what to do.”

“In some respects, this was also a religious war. People immigrated from Europe and brought their faith, especially the Scots Irish, who were mistreated in Ireland. This is a story of faith in God and faith in the whole idea of a nation,” he said. “Militias were small groups of 100 to 200 men. The story is also about people who often acted independently together.”

When asked what he hopes the audience takes away from this performance, Bob replied, “I want the audience to feel like this is a modern play, that how we live as Americans today depended on the outcome of the battle. The British had been doing great: Charleston, Camden, The Waxhaws, and Charlotte, and were getting ready to go North. If they had not turned the tide of success, we might be singing God Save the King, were not for the Battle of Kings Mountain.”

“This story impacts how Americans live today, and everyone needs to appreciate

Performances for Liberty Mountain are each weekend beginning September 15, at the Joy Performance Center, 202 S. Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

This year’s performances are scheduled for:

• Friday, September 15, at 7:30 PM

• Saturday, September 16, at 3:00 PM

• Saturday, September 16, at 7:30 PM

• Sunday, September 17, at 3:00 PM

• Friday, September 22, at 7:30 PM

• Saturday, September 23, at 3:00 PM

• Saturday, September 23, at 7:30 PM

• Sunday, September 24, at 3:00 PM

• Friday, September 29, at 7:30 PM

• Saturday, September 30, at 3:00 PM

• Saturday, September 30, at 7:30 PM

• Sunday, October 1, at 3:00 PM

• Friday, October 6, at 7:30 PM

• Sunday, October 8, at 3:00 PM Group discounts and VIP packages are available.

Kings Mountain Little Theatre, Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit, produces the play. Gilbert and Jancy Patrick are the Founding Sponsor. Albemarle is the Presenting Sponsor. Kings Mountain Tourism Development Authority is a Major Sponsor. The creative team is Sigmon Theatrical, LLC, Artistic Director Caleb Sigmon, and Bob Inman. For more information, visit KMLT.org or LibertyMountainDrama.com, tickets@kmlt.org, or call 704730-9408.

Mountaineers defeat Burns 23-14 for third straight win, next game Big South 3A opener at Huss on Sept. 15

Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers struggled at times against a good Burns defense and faced one of the best quarterbacks in the state in the Bulldogs’ Ben Mauney, but never trailed in winning their third straight game of the new season 23-14 Friday night in Lawndale.

The defense managed to control Mauney early, holding the Bulldogs to three and out to begin the game only to fumble the punt and give the Dogs another series. The Dogs were then able to move to the KM 23 before KM’s Thomas Fair recovered a fumble.

It took the Mountaineer offense just six plays to take a 7-0 lead on an eight-yard run by Ja’Qualan Sanders and Max Thompson’s PAT.

But Mauney and the ‘Dogs proved quickly they were also one of the best teams around regardless of classification. The fouryear starter Mauney led a 78-yard, nine-play drive that culminated with a threeyard run by Jeremiah Norris. The Mountaineers were able to stop a Bulldog twopoint conversion attempt and held on to a 7-6 lead.

The second quarter was almost all-Mountaineers as

they put two touchdowns on the board to go into halftime up 21-6.

First, they went on an 80-yard, 17-play drive that culminated with a one-yard Teddy Jeffries TD with just 3:10 left on the halftime clock. Along the way the Mountaineers got key pass receptions by Sanders, Josiah Hill, Jayden Gash and Xzorian Lenair to drive to the Burns 21. Behind good blocking, Jeffries took care of the final 21 yards on four carries. Thompson’s PAT made it 14-6.

Burns went three-andout and KM took possession at its own 49 with 2:02 on the first half clock. Sanders streaked far past the Burns secondary and Zollo hit him in full stride for a 51-yard touchdown and Thompson kicked the point-after for a 21-6 lead that held up until halftime.

The Bulldogs took a big bite out of that lead in the third quarter, stopping the Mountaineers short on a faked punt to set up a 51-yard, 10-play drive that ended with a one-yard touchdown run by Zavion Wilson. Jonny Johnson caught a two-point conversion pass to cut the score to 21-14.

Burns recovered a fumble at the KM 45 with 1:19 left in the third period and drove to the 25 before losing the ball on downs. The ‘Dogs regained possession on a KM fumble, but two plays later fumbled themselves and KM’s Jason

Melton recovered it at the KM 49 with 6:02 left.

Neither team was able to provide much offense after that. With 1:56 remaining and KM at the Burns 37 facing fourth and seven, Thompson got off a punt that was downed at the five

yard line. Trying to scramble for a possible deep throw downfield, Mauney was being stormed by the KM defense and intentionally grounded the ball. However, he was in the end zone which resulted in a safety to account for the

final score.

The Mountaineers are idle this Friday and will open Big South 3A Conference play on Friday, September 15 at Hunter Huss. Their next home game is September 22 against the North Gaston Wildcats.

KM’s Zaylen Ramos (50) and Curtis Simpson (9) bring down Burns’ talented QB Ben Mauney. Photos by Gary Smart

Mountaineer QB Landon Zollo looks to throw to Teddy Jeffries in last week’s game at Burns.

Ja’Qualyn Sanders scores for the Mountaineers in their win over Burns Friday night.

KM’s Jason Melton recovers a fumble which was caused by a hard hit by Curtis Simpson (9) in Friday’s game at Burns.

KM’s Josiah Hill recovers a fumble in Mountaineers victory over Burns Friday in Lawndale.

Max Thompson gets off a long punt against the Burns Bulldogs.

Barry Moore is happy with the Mountaineers’ performance on the field Friday night at Burns. KM won 23-14.

JVs shutout Burns 36-0

Kings Mountain High’s JV football team shook off some early penalties on its first two drives to roll over the Burns Bulldogs 36-0 Thursday night at John Gamble Stadium.

Penalties hurt both teams on their early possessions but Jakelan Littlejohn’s 22-yard punt return to the Burns 22 yard line got the Mountaineer offense fired up. After a personal foul penalty the Mountaineers took possession at their own 42 and took just four plays to score on a one-yard run by Savion Lindsay.

Along the way the Mountaineers got a 10-yard run by Lindsay for a first down and a 26-yard pass reception by Lindsay for a first and goal at the one. Lindsay scored on the next play and Ethan

Reed’s point after split the uprights for a 7-0 lead.

The Bulldogs put themselves in another big hole after an illegal block on Reed’s kickoff made them start from their own 14. Facing fourth and six from the 16, the Bulldogs decided to go for a first down but KM’s Jayden Williams picked off the pass and took it the house. Reed’s PAT made it a quick 14-0.

KM’s Wiley Rainey blocked a punt on the Bulldogs’ next possession and the Mountaineers had to go just 10 yards to score on a six-yard keeper around end by quarterback Micah Byers and a four-yard run by Lindsay. Again, Reed split the uprights to put KM up 21-0.

The Mountaineer defense got into the scoring

act on the Bulldogs’ next possession when Semaj Odems blocked a punt and Wiley Rainey took it to the house. Reed added another PAT for a 28-0 lead.

Kings Mountain drove 62 yards in six plays to account for the final margin.

Jakelan Littlejohn took it in from the two and Daeshawn Camp passed to Lathan Feemster for a two-point conversion. An 18-yard run around left end by Lindsay set it up. Along the way Lindsay had three carries for 34 yards and Littlejohn two for 32.

The Mountaineers have an open date this week and will begin Big South Conference play Septem-ber 14 at home against the Hunter Huss Huskies. Game time is 7 p.m.

SPORTS THIS WEEK

Thur., Sept 7 4 p.m. – High school volleyball, Kings Mountain at Hunter Huss (JV, varsity doubleheader).

6 p.m. – High school soccer, East Rutherford at Kings Mountain.

Fri., Sept. 8

TBA – High school volleyball, Mountaineer Invitational at KMHS.

Mon., Sept. 11 6 p.m. – High school soccer Stuart Cramer at Kings Mountain.

Tue., Sept. 12 4 p.m. – High school

volleyball, North Gaston at Kings Mountain (JV/ varsity DH).

Wed., Sept. 13 6 p.m. - High school soccer, Kings Mountain at Ashbrook.

Fans, Bands & Stands

(Photos by Charlie Smith)

KMHS JV football players Travis Gardin, Levi Williams, Mason Wright and Matthew Kiser at last week’s game against Burns.

Coach Jacob Lineberger has a chat with Jakelan Littlejohn at last week’s JV game with Burns at Gamble Stadium.

Photos by Gary Smart

Fans, Bands & Stands

GWU Fall Career & Internship Fair

Photos by Gary Smart

Prepare now for storms and tornados

Ellie's Place performed at Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market and drew a crowd throughout the morning. The Farmers’ Market has decided their last Saturday will be September 16. Fruits, vegetables, meat, honey, flowers, and a variety of other offerings are available. Be sure to drop by and support farmers and artists by shopping locally. Photo by Loretta Cozart

Newton, Rocky Mount receive a disaster declarations

Governor Roy Cooper signed disaster declarations for the City of Rocky Mount in Nash and Edgecombe Counties and the City of Newton in Catawba County. Rocky Mount experienced damage from an EF-3 tornado in July and Newton experienced damages from a straight-line wind event in August.

“Communities in Nash and Catawba Counties were hit hard by severe weather this past month and I appreciate state officials working diligently with local leaders to leave no stone unturned in

identifying areas eligible for state support. These disaster declarations will help these communities recover from the destruction and help them to rebuild stronger,” said Governor Cooper. The Governor’s Orders authorize state-funded disaster assistance through public assistance grants to eligible local governments for debris clearance and emergency protective measures. These disaster declarations expire sixty days after issuance.

Local and state emergency management officials

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of August, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of ROBERT MILTON BEAM, 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, Robert Michael Beam, Administrator on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Robert Michael Beam, Administrator

Estate of: Robert Milton Beam

1129 Sellerstown Rd. Cherryville, NC 28021

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th of June, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of MICHAEL ALLEN MELTON, 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, Vickie B. Melton, Executrix on or before the 6th of December, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Vickie B. Melton, Executrix

Estate of Michael Allen Melton

505 Crawley Gin Road Shelby, NC 28150

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/06, 13, 20 & 27/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 16th of August, 2023 as Ancillary

Administrator of the Estate of FRANKLIN C. EAVES, 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, Alma Jackson, Ancillary Administrator on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Alma Jackson, Ancillary Administrator

Estate of: Franklin C. Eaves

1841 Lowman Rd

Shelby, NC 28150

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

conducted joint preliminary damage assessments and determined that Rocky Mount and Newton have each incurred more than $10,000 in uninsured disaster-related damages equaled to or exceeded one percent of their annual operating budget in their respective storms.

The City of Rocky Mount and the City of Newton would not qualify for federal assistance based on the preliminary damage assessments. State officials with Emergency Management and the Department of Public Safety continue working with communities affected by these events to determine their eligibility for state aid.

September is National Preparedness Month, and the theme for 2023 is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” according to NC State Extension. Tornadoes are violent windstorms characterized by a twisting, funnel-shaped cloud. These naturally occurring phenomena can form as spin-offs of a hurricane or accompany a thunderstorm. While many tornadoes never touch ground or do not affect populated areas, those that do can cause significant property damage in a short time.

Although North Carolina has fewer tornadoes than the Midwest, residents still face an average of 29 yearly tornadoes. On March 28, 1984, tornadoes killed 42 North Carolinians and injured 801. On November 28, 1988, a deadly tornado killed four and injured 154, leaving 982 homeless. This storm stayed on the ground for 83 miles on a path from Raleigh to Northampton County.

More recently, in 2011, during the three-day period from April 14-16, more than 177 tornadoes erupted across the country. Thirty were confirmed in North Carolina, leaving 22 dead in their wake.

In 2014, the National Weather Service issued 81 tornado warnings for North Carolina and recorded 36 tornadoes that killed one and injured 34 people. The

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 30th of August, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of NATHERN LEWIS LANKFORD, 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, Tracy N. Lankford, Administratrix on or before the 6th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Tracy N. Lankford, Administratrix

Estate of: Nathern Lewis Lankford 213 Old Mill Rd. Shelby, NC 28150 KMH (9/06, 13, 20 & 27/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 21st of August, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of EDWARD DAVES LEE, 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 Lee Olsen, Executrix on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Teresa Lee Olsen, Executrix

Estate of Edward Daves Lee

2320 New House Rd Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 4th of August, 2023 as Co-Executor and Co-Executrix of the Estate of SARAH BLANTON DEDMON, 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 Theodore Dedmon, Co-Executor and/or Lucreita Caroline Dedmon, Co-Executrix on or before the 16th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

James Theodore Dedmon, Co-Executor

Estate of: Sarah Blanton Dedmon

1620 McBrayer Springs Rd. Shelby, NC 28150

And/or

Lucretia Caroline Dedmon, Co-Executrix

Estate of: Sarah Blanton Dedmon

1406 June Rd.

Shelby, NC 28150 KMH (8/16, 23, 30 & 9/06/2023)

tornadoes caused more than $22 million in damages in North Carolina. North Carolina had 41 reported tornados in 2018.

Tornado Watch and

Warning: What They Mean

• A Tornado Watch indicates that weather conditions favor the development of storms, which may produce tornadoes in your area. A watch does not mean that a tornado has been sighted. The watch may last up to 8 hours. You should be prepared for a possible tornado. You don’t need to move to a shelter, but keep a radio or TV, be alert for threatening weather conditions, and have a safe shelter prepared and accessible. If you live in a mobile home, you should stay updated on current weather conditions and be prepared to move to a sturdier shelter at a moment’s notice if storms approach your area. Find a friend or family member living in a sturdy home to spend the night with if the watch extends overnight.

• A Tornado Warning means a local weather bureau office issued a warning when a tornado funnel has been sighted or indicated by Doppler radar. The warning covers a short period of time and specific areas. The warning will indicate where the tornado was detected and the area through which it is expected to move. If you are in the expected path of the storm, take shelter immediately.

How to Spot a Tornado

Tornadoes are most common between March and June in North Carolina, although they may occur any time of the year. Hurricanes may also spawn tornadoes.

It’s important to learn to recognize weather signs. Tornado weather is usually hot, humid, and oppressive, with southerly winds. An hour or two before the storm, the clouds may have a greenish-black color and seem to bulge down instead of up. Rapidly moving lower clouds may shoot with lace-like lightning.

The tornado is a rotating funnel-shaped cloud extending down from the base of a thundercloud. It is usually gray or black. In North Carolina, tornados are often invisible and may be obscured by the storm. A nearby tornado usually sounds like a jet plane or freight train roar.

Tornadoes usually move from southwest to northeast. They may form as a series of two or more, with a large primary tornado followed by one or more secondary or lesser storms. Heavy rain and hail may add to the damage of the tornado itself.

Some tornado funnels never touch the ground. Some touch down, rise again and touch down in another place.

Where to Go

During a Tornado

Knowing what to do during a tornado may mean

See STORM, Page 5B

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 1st of August, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of BILLY RAY HAMRICK, 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, Chris Hamrick, Executor on or before the 16th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Chris Hamrick, Executor

Estate of Billy Ray Hamrick 34 Edith LN Capon Bridge, WV 26711 KMH (8/16, 23, 30 & 9/06/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 1st of August, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of NELLIE MARIE WILSON HAMRICK, 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, Chris Hamrick, Executor on or before the 16th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Chris Hamrick, Executor Estate of Nellie Marie Wilson Hamrick 34 Edith LN Capon Bridge, WV 26711 KMH (8/16, 23, 30 & 9/06/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 11th of August 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Carolyn W. Rikard (23 E 114), 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 Marty Charles Rikard, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before December 8, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Marty Charles Rikard

Executor of the Estate of Carolyn W. Rikard c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150 KMH (9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

STORM

From Page 4B the difference between life and death. If you hear a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately. Stay away from windows.

• In office buildings: Go to an interior hallway on a lower floor, preferably in the basement, or designated shelter area.

• In factories: Go to the section of the plant offering the greatest protection. Someone should be responsible for disconnecting fuel lines and electric circuits. Keep a lookout posted.

• In homes: Get to the lowest level of your home in an interior room as far away from exterior walls and windows as possible. If you have no basement, choose an inside wall away from windows and sit flat against it. Central halls, bathrooms, and closets are good choices. Get under heavy furniture, if possible, to protect yourself from flying glass and debris. Stay away from windows. Keep tuned to a battery-powered radio for the latest weather information. Always wear

shoes and protect your head.

• In mobile homes: Go to the nearest community shelter or other sturdy building before the storm. Mobile homes are especially dangerous during high winds and may be overturned. If you cannot get to a shelter or sturdy building, lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine, or culvert and cover your head with your hands.

• In schools: Go to an interior hallway on the lowest floor. Avoid gymnasiums and buildings with large, free-span roofs.

• In shopping centers: Go to a designated shelter area.

• In a car: Vehicles are very dangerous during a tornado. Seek shelter in a sturdy building if time allows. If you are caught in your vehicle, stay in the car with your seatbelt on. Duck below the windows and cover your head with your hands, a coat or a blanket. If you are on an elevated roadway and can get noticeably lower, you may leave your vehicle and lie flat in that area. Do NOT seek shelter under a bridge.

• Outdoors or open areas: Seek shelter on a sturdy building. If you cannot find shelter, lie flat and face-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 13th of July, 2023 as Administratrix

CTA of the Estate of ALFRED WRAY RICHARD, 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, Amy Elizabeth Richard Breen, Administratrix CTA on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Amy Elizabeth Richard Breen, Administratix CTA

Estate of: Alfred Wray Richard

1336 Williamson Rd

Shelby, NC 28152

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 27th of June, 2023 as Co-Executors of the Estate of ARLENE LANDES KENTER, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Robin Hope Kenter Sheriff, Co-Executor and/or Richard Hugh Kenter, Co-Executor on or before the 16th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Robin Hope Kenter Sheriff, Co-Executor

Estate of: Arlene Landes Kenter

101 Stone St. Shelby, NC 28152

And/or

Richard Hugh Kenter, Co-Executor

Estate of: Arlene Landes Kenter

130 Dekka Rd Rutherfordton, NC 52023

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/16, 23, 30 & 9/06/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

In

KAREN ELIZABETH EVERETTE, Deceased. ADMINISTRATRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on the 23rd day of August, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of Rebecca Louise Smith Huntsinger, deceased, late of Gaston County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 8th day of December, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Brenda Clay, ADM

3925-5 Robert Ridings Road Shelby, NC 28150

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

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

KM (9/6, 9/13, 9/20, & 9/27/2023)

down in a low-lying area. Cover your head with your arms. Stay away from trees and other objects that may be blown over you.

Tornado Survival Rules

Do not go outside to look for the tornado. Go to a below-ground location, if possible. If not, stay on the lowest level of your house.

A storm cellar, root cellar, center laundry room, bathroom with no exterior walls, or a center hallway in your house are possible choices. Stay away from windows. Do not run out into the street or turn into the tornado’s path. Wear shoes when you take cover. Make sure you have something to cover up with.

Pillows, rugs, blankets, sleeping bags, or a mattress could help to protect you from falling/flying debris. Above all, protect your head, neck, and upper body. Wear a helmet (bicycle, football, baseball, motorcycle, hard hat, etc.) if you have one.

Listen to instructions on a battery-powered radio. Beware of possible dangers:

• Flying objects

• Falling trees

• Breaking windows

• Collapsing buildings

A study by Better Business Bureau® finds that while people in North America struggle to pay trillions of dollars in debt, some look for help from companies promising to help reduce or eliminate their debt or fix their credit score. And some companies make big promises but rarely deliver, leaving people further in debt.

The 2023 study, Credit Repair and Debt Relief: BBB® study finds some companies fail to deliver on big promises, examines debt relief, debt consolidation, and credit repair industries, finding a pattern of high fees and overstated promises from predatory companies.

BBB has over 11 thousand complaints and a thousand negative reviews about debt and credit assistance, which reveal a pattern of misleading and sometimes fraudulent claims, especially among a group of companies headquartered in the American West.

Consumers told BBB stories about how their dedication to plans proposed by these companies, meant to boost their credit scores or reduce crushing debt, left them worse off.

Candance from Charlotte, NC told BBB she hired a credit repair company and was guaranteed she would have every-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 2nd of August, 2023 as Administrator-CTA of the Estate of DORIS W. ELLIOTT, 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, William Andrew Elliott, Jr., Administrator-CTA on or before the 23rd of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of August, 2023.

William Andrew Elliott, Jr., Administrator-CTA

Estate of: Doris W. Elliott

3060 East Bridge St. Brighton, CO. 80601

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/23, 30, 9/06, 13/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 4th of August, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of DAVID PRESLEY, 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, Christian Blue Presley, Administrator on or before the 16th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Christian Blue Presley, Administrator

Estate of: David Presley

922 W. Sumter St. Shelby, NC 28150

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/16, 23, 30 & 9/0616/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23 E 359

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH BOYD WILLIS

Having qualified on the 21st day of August, 2023, as Executor of the Estate of KENNETH BOYD WILLIS, deceased, 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 on or before November 28, 2023 or this notice will be pleased in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the Estate should make immediate payment.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Kimberly W. Elliott

Of the Estate of Kenneth Boyd Willis

130 Merton Road Lawndale, NC 28090

Attorney for the Estate:

Robert H. Lutz Lutz Law Firm, PLLC

310-8 East Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

thing taken care of within 90 days, or her money would be refunded. Unfortunately, 90 days came and went, and Candance never received a refund or any improvement in her credit score.

While some consumers report positive experiences with the credit and debt assistance industry, this study shows there are negative patterns reported by consumers to BBB about companies in the industry, and outright scams designed to deceive and take money from consumers. Debt is not inherently bad, but millions of Americans can find themselves underwater as monthly payments and interest stack up. When emergencies strike or monthly paychecks don’t add up, missed payments result in late fees, plummeting credit scores, and further economic distress.

Predatory debt relief, consolidation, and credit repair companies advertise quick and extensive fixes for low credit scores and defaulted debt, but the ability to enact change is often much more limited than implied. Consumers report to BBB that the mounting fees for debt relief programs and lackluster results from credit repair businesses have lost them thousands of dollars and left them worse off than before. Many of the services offered by credit and debt assistance companies can be done by consumers themselves. However, difficulty in understanding their

options, lack of know-how or a time crunch, and other issues can lead some consumers to seek assistance. Here are some key terms and services to know when researching options. BBB offers tips for consumers considering debt relief or credit repair:

• Use AnnualCreditReport. com to get a free credit report.

• Don’t pay or provide payment information until service is rendered.

• Critically examine any guarantee made. Few, if any, companies can ensure a credit or debit company will agree to negotiate with them or adjust reports.

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• Refuse to work with companies that won’t tell you about your rights regarding credit repair or debt relief.

• Be wary of anyone claiming to be associated with a government agency.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 2nd of August, 2023 as Administrator-CTA of the Estate of INA JEAN HAGER; AKA, INA

L. HAGER, 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, David Hager, Administrator-CTA on or before the 23rd of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of August, 2023.

David Hager, Administrator-CTA

Estate of: Ina Jean Hager; aka, Ina L. Hager 126 Rollingbrook Road. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW 233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150 KMH (8/23, 30, 9/06, 13/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th of August, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of JAMES DAVID WALDROP, 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, Sandra Waldrop, Administratrix on or before the 6th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Sandra Waldrop, Administratrix

Estate of: James David Waldrop

130 Forest Morrison Rd. Lawndale, NC 28090

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/06, 13, 20 & 27/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 11th of August, 2023 as Administrator CTA of the Estate of MARY RUTH BOWEN PRESTON, 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, Nathan Forb, Administrator CTA on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Nathan Forb, Administrator CTA

Estate of: Mary Ruth Bowen Preston 1811 Sardis Rd. N. Charlotte, NC 28270

Counsel for the Estate

McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

Debt relief and credit repair study finds some companies fail to live up to promises, leave consumers further in debt

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or 704-2970103

EMPLOYMENT

ASSEMBLY POSITIONS. Peak Workforce Solutions is hiring Assemblers in Forest City, NC. Pay is $16.50 for 1st Shift and $17.50 for 2nd and 3rd Shift! Apply in person at 160 Ash Drive, Forest City (Off of highway 221 headed toward Chesnee) or apply online and if applying in person bring proof of identity and proof of authorization to work in the United States. Hours: 1st Shift: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM Monday - Friday 2nd Shift: 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM Monday - Friday 3rd Shift: 9:30 PM6:00 AM Sunday - Thursday (Overtime is required depending on production needs) We would love to have you on our team! Some heavy lifting. Overtime is required. 8-10 hour workdays. Mechanically inclined position. Previous forklift experience preferred. (828) 447-1018

SEEKING DIVINITY DE-

GREE CANDIDATE. Are you a candidate for a Divinity degree completing your studies online? If so, we’d like to talk to you. We are a local church with a belief in a busy future serving Our Lord Jesus, Christ. We are seeking to call a pastor who will lead us into and through our lively times-to come. The position we offer comes with salary and some benefits and starts immediately – affording you the opportunity to “earn while you learn.” Candidates receiving Leading from Our Lord should submit letter and resume’ to: offi ce@lafayettestreetchurch. org. For additional information, please call and leave a message @ 704-487-8333 and we will reply promptly and personally. (704) 487-8333 office@lafayettestreetchurch.org

PART-TIME MINISTER OF MUSIC. Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Forest City NC is seeking a part-time Minister of Music. Send resume to mountvernonforestcity@ gmail.com or mail to 2676 Hudlow Rd. Forest City, NC 28043 (828) 286-9294 mountvernonforestcity@gmail.com

EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPER $15 HOUR. Don’t bother calling if you don’t want to work. Must speak English. 704-526-6640.

ONE ON ONE CARE, INC. Is hiring for Day Program Activity Coordinator. Includes some transport. Mon- Fri- 7am3pm Also hiring for 2nd and 3rd shifts in the Residential homes, rotating schedule. Off every other weekend. If interested, apply at 203 Lee St., Shelby, NC 28150

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

FEMALE SEEKING CARE

GIVER POSITION. 20 plus years experience. References available. (980) 241-0465

PRESSURE WASHING, MULCHING, LANDSCAP-

ING, BUSHES TRIMMED,

DECKS RESTORED &

MUCH MORE! 30 Years Experience. Free Estimates! Call (704) 692-4449

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICE. Paint Kitchen Cabinets, Stain Decks, Outside Painting. Pre-estimated price. References available. 828-429-7511, 828-429-3743.

Ask for James. (828) 2879272 jballard591@gmail.com

JUNK REMOVAL AND HAULING Junk removal and hauling. Free estimates! (828) 205-0904

ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & Reliable! (704) 3002332

BUSINESS SERVICES

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 5321587

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

TWO BURIAL LOTS AT Rose Hill Memorial Park Cemetery. $1600 for both or $800 per lot. (704) 297-0098 VIZIO 42’’ TV with stand. Also swivel recliner. $125 for all. 828-817-9512.

LITTLE BEAVER AUGER BITS, points, blades, $150. 40¢ per ft., take all of 4 inch corrugated plastic pipe $140. 828-657-4223.

FLOOR TILE, OAK ENGINEERED WOOD. Great quality 18 x 24” tile. Perfect for a bathroom or foyer. Will cover 57 square feet $100. Oak engineered wood will cover 120 square feet $200. (407) 5792473 ireneglz@aol.com

THE MIRACLE JOURNAL.

FOR SALE

LOST & FOUND

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828-980-0853, 704476-9383.

USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. Keep it dry and safe! 828-980-0788 or 828-286-8674.

LIVESTOCK TRAILER Tandem axle trailer, 2 inch ball.10’x5’. $1000 OBO (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

REFRIGERATOR FOR

SALE. Great Deal! ONLY

$145. Call 704-718-9651 anytime.

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

PARTS TRACTOR. Ford 810 diesel tractor for parts. Lots of good parts. $900. 828-2872511.

MISSING DOG - ROTT-

JOHNSTON GRADING LLC

Skid steer work and Trackhoe work. RV Transport and set ups in Local Campgrounds. Driveway repairs, gravel hauling, Culvert pipe installed. Campground sites built to your specs. Call 704473-5600. (704) 473-5600 johnstongradingllc@yahoo. com

Are you between a rock and a hard place? Does it feel like the walls are closing in on you? Did you receive a serious diagnosis from the doctor? Have you received an eviction notice? Have you lost your job? Are you facing a financial crisis?

BEAUTIFUL WOOD DINING TABLE with 4 chairs. Perfect for small family. $350. Call 704-312-6020. 750 GALLON HICKS WATERSTOVE. 8 solar collectors and attached oil burner. $4800. (704) 482-8851

WE’VE GOT THE KNIVES &COINS! Jake’s Knives & Coins located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

BLACKHAWK LEFT HANDED HOLSTER $35. I have Blackhawk left handed Sherpa level 2 sportster holster fits colt 1911 or anything like it with or without a rail. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

WEILER MIX Missing from Barbee Rd., Shelby area 8/12. Chipped-F-Rottweiler mix, 35 lbs w/ green collar. HWP- needs meds. Text 863258-9310 (704) 406-9088 betswhite@aol.com

WANT TO BUY

WANT TO BUY 1 ACRE OF LAND. In the country. Not Zoned. (704) 538-2004

“SWIFT SOLUTIONS” TOILET REPAIR EXPERTS!. CHOOSE FROM ONE OF BADGER PLUMBING COMPANIES’ COMPREHENSIVE

TOILET REBUILD PACKAGES. BASIC REBUILD PACK-

AGE: $150 (FLAPPER, FILLVALVE, AND SUPPLY LINE); PREMIUM REBUILD PACK-

AGE: $225 (FLAPPER, FILL-VALVE, SUPPLY LINE, WAX SEAL, BOLTS TO FLOOR); ULTIMATE CARE

PACKAGE: $350 (FLAPPER, FILL-VALVE, SUPPLY LINE, WAX RING, BOLTS TO THE FLOOR, TANK TO BOWL SEAL). “EXPERIENCE TOP-QUALITY TOILET REPAIR WITH BADGER PLUMBING COMPANY!”

“SATISFACTION IS GUARANTEED!” CALL: (980) 403-5859 OR LEARN MORE AT WWW.PLUMBINGBADGER.COM (980) 403-5859 CHARLIE@PLUMBINGBADGER.COM

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer

Tune-up Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704-477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

SURGE PRESSURE WASHING, INC. House washing starting @$99. surgepwinc. com (704) 284-9292

CHILD CARE

NOW ENROLLING NC

PRE-K. Must be 4 by August 31st, 2023. Please inquire at Connected Kids Child Development Center at 600 N. Morgan St, Shelby or call Carol Rikard, Damitra Cannon or Katina Smith at 704-4875792.

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

SHOPPING FOR BAR-

GAINS? Something for everyone! Saturday, 9/9/23, 7:001:00pm. You will be glad you came. Turn left at stop light at K.M. High, go two blocks, turn right on Lee St., 902 Lee Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

COMMUNITY 2 DAY YARD

SALE! Sat., Sept. 23rd, 2023 from 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM & Sat. Sept. 30th,

Whatever the problem is The Miracle Journal offers comfort, encouragement, and hope. Topics include: God is able to help you, God wants to help you, miracles of God, triump over trials, keys to answered prayer, and Bible verses and prayers for when you need a miracle now. In addition, there is plenty of space for you to write your prayers, thoughts, ideas, hopes, dreams, and goals...whatever you want. You can use The Miracle Journal for your personal devotions, or you can give it away as a gift to those who are in need. May God turn your mountain into a miracle. 300 pages. 8.5 x 11/ Available on Amazon. https://www.amazon. com/dp/B0C91GYY8H thehopelighthouse@outlook. com

TOTES $60. Metal & Plastic Barrels, Open or Closed Top $10. Feed Barrels 25 & 55 Gallon with Lids & Rings $20. Old Saw Mill Blade, $100. Call Jeff (828) 327-4782

FLEA MARKET ITEMS. I have 2 Utility Buildings Full Of Flea Market Items. Want To Sell The Items. Come See! 828-447-5760. (828) 2230050

BODY SHOP TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT. Cash Only. Items for sale include tools, hot water pressure washer, 3 tool chests, 2 welders, air compressor, 60’s Mustang body, old Mercury body, and tons of Mopar parts and pieces. (704) 419-3422

COMPASS SPORT $725. 2020 model, 250 lb capacity. We deliver, train and offer a warranty. Call Scooterman John (704) 951-4224 mobilityservices07@gmail.com

NEW BADCOCK DIRECT

HAMELTON II. Leather Sofa & Love Seat. Cream Color $1800. (202) 550-5093

ASSORTMENT OF CHILTON REPAIR MANUALS. I have a large assortment of Chilton Auto Repair Manuals. Some are imports and trucks. Some Motor Manuals all are hard back copies. Best Offer! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net DOG KENNEL. 8’tall x 10’wide. 12 pieces, 8 without gate, 4 with gate. Must take down, move. $300 OBO. 828200-7441.

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

“Must Have Title” J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

15 STAINLESS KITCHEN SINKS. $45 ea. Gun Cabinet, glass front, holds 6 guns $150. Exercise Bike $85, Heavy Duty Boat Trailer $600, Stingray Bike $400, 2 China Cabinets $359 ea, 231 Red Bricks $150. Storm Doors & Windows, assorted sizes $185 for all. TV Stand $65, Fireplace Mantel $250. (100)

BF GOODRICH T/A TIRES. 4 like new! ( Size 265/70/170) $400 OBO (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

STEEL BUILDINGS (OPEN OR FULLY ENCLOSED) 14 on Display. 12’ Wide to 40

EVEN 60 Clear Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete”

TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

TRAILERS, TRAILERS! DUMP TRAILERS, GOOSENECK, DECK OVER, EQUIPMENT, ALL PURPOSE TRAILERS, CAR HAULERS.

Cash, Finance, Credit Cards, Rent to Own (No Credit Check) J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

NEW 6X12 TRAILER “RENT TO OWN”. No Credit Check!

$582 Down-$161 per month. Includes Tax & Title Fee.

J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

7 TON GOOSENECK 25

FOOT. Lay Flat Ramp “All

Rubber Seal Lights” Tool Box & More! $12,900 OR No

Credit Check Rent to Own.

From $639 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

BOAT & RV COVERS-WE

INSTALL. 14 on Site that you can look at and touch! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 2455895

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

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

WANT TO BUY: STAMP COLLECTIONS and accumulations of same. Call 828652-9425 or cell 954-6142562. CASH FOR US COIN COLLECTIONS. Buying old Pre 1964 U.S. Coins. Silver or Gold or entire collections no matter what condition they’re in. Searching in the Cleveland, Lincoln, and Gaston County. Call me at 661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@live.com

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

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

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

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

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? I PURCHASE UN-

WANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

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

FARM & GARDEN

SIG SAUER 357 CALIBER Semi automatic stainless steel pistol. $750. Includes a 12 shot magazine. (828) 2891817.

1999 DODGE 1500. I have

1999 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine. Doors have been sold. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

8 Track Tapes $185. Table, 4 Chairs $75. Nice Women’s Dress Clothes & Dress Pants, assorted sizes $300 for all. Also Boys & Girls Clothes, $150 for all. (803) 818-1215

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

DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 704-4774766. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

4X5 ROUND BALES FESCUE HAY. $40 bale or buy in volume for better rate. (704) 215-0214 ROUND HAY BALER FOR SALE. 2013 New Holland, needs $300 worth of parts. $9,000. 828-429-3100. HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. 4x5 Round Bales in barn, $55 each. Fescue and Orchard grass. Rutherford County. 828-429-3100. HAY BALES FOR SALE. Good grass, 4x5 large hay bales. $40 each. 828-4294900.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of John D. Hastings, Sr. of Cleveland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decendent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 21st day of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of August 2023.

John Mark Hastings

PO Box 253 Lawndale, NC 28090

Attorney Martha Wallace King Law Offices, PC

410 N Lafayette St Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (8/23, 30, 9/06 & 13/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE

OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND DEBRA RAINES, Plaintiff, vs. MICHAEL DAVIS, MICHELLE DAVIS, and TIMBER HILLS DEVELOPMENT, LLC.,

Defendants. 22 CVS 2106

The Defendant, Michelle Davis, that in action entitled as above has been commenced in the Superior Court of Cleveland County, North Carolina for the Complaint. Defendant will further take notice that they are required to appear at the office of the Superior Court of said State and County and answer or respond to the complaint filed in said action or action or the Petition will apply for relief demanded in said Complaint.

This the 6th day of September, 2023.

Brenton S. Begley

Attorney for Plaintiff

233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 17th of August, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of ROBERT N. CAMP; AKA, ROBERT NORMAN CAMP, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corpora-tions having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Judy D. Camp, Executrix on or before the 23rd of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corpora-tions indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of August, 2023.

Judy D. Camp, Executrix

Estate of Robert N. Camp; aka, Robert Norman Camp 105 Oakmount Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (8/23, 30, 9/06 & 13/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 17th of August, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of MILDRED FAYE WHITE, 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, Sandra White Thackrah; FKA, Sandra Faye Hamrick, Executrix on or before the 30th of November, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of August, 2023.

Sandra White Thackrah; FKA, Sandra Faye Hamrick, Executrix

Estate of Mildred Faye White 283 Faye Toney Rd Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (8/30, 9/06, 13 & 20/2023)

CAROLINACLASSIFIEDS.COM - ADS WORK

CLASSIFIEDS

PETS & LIVESTOCK

BALD PYTHONS, 8 WEEKS

OLD. Many different colors & genetics. Males & females. Prices vary. Call Mark (704) 470-5947

TOY & MINI AUSSIES. UTD on shots and worming. Blue eyes, paper & crate trained. 828-289-6756.

HOLLAND LOP AND HAR-

BOATS

1993 HYDRA SPORTS 18’9”

BOAT. Open title. Boat needs work, it’s been sitting for a few years. 150 Mercury motor, runs good. Asking $4,200 OBO. (704) 418-9331 vablab08@gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FREE KITTENS To a good home. 2 males and 7 females are available. 704-562-0370.

LARGE, VERY HEALTHY, ADULT BEARDED DRAG-

ON. Complete with spacious habitat, lamps, and accessories. $275. Call or text 704477-9634

PITT BULL PUPPIES FOR

SALE. 1 litter, 6 months old; 1 litter, 5 months old; brindle and white. $200. Call 704734-7243

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

LEQUIN BUNNY RABBITS. $20 each. Call (828) 4090939

BOXER PUPPIES, CKC REG.

8 weeks old, shots & worming

UTD. Big healthy pups. $300 each. (704) 466-3135

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. We have full blooded German Shepherd puppies ready for their new homes. They were born on June 1st, 2023 and all have had their first shots and been vet checked ! We are located in Springfield,SC! (937) 7075977 spiress075@gmail.com FREE KITTENS. Free to good inside home. Already have 1st vet visit. 704-472-7116

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

File No. 23 E 608

In the Matter of the Estate of:

MICHAEL DWAYNE QUEEN, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 31st day of July, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Michael Dwayne Queen, 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 16th day of November 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Michael Queen 201 N. Sims St. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (8/16, 8/23, 8/30 & 9/6/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

In the Matter of the Estate of: RUBY COLEMAN AIKEN, Deceased File No. 23 E 603

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix of the ESTATE OF RUBY COLEMAN AIKEN deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Ruby Coleman Aiken to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Adrienne Suzanne Aiken Fisher, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 16th day of November, 2023 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 16th day of August, 2023.

Adrienne Suzanne Aiken Fisher, Executrix of the Estate, c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street Shelby, NC 28150 KMH (8/16, 8/23, 8/30 & 9/6/2023)

VACATIONS

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

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY FOR SALE BY OWNER. 3 BR, 2 BA Brick House, 1,371 sq.ft. corner lot. As is $220,000. 704-812-8247

AKC GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. President Gerald Ford bloodlines. 2 rounds of shots, 8 weeks old. 2 boys & 1 girl left. Call 704-884-6805. PUREBRED CHOCOLATE

LAB PUPPIES. Females only. $300 each. Call or text Austin

Sommers 828-289-0671.

GOATS: TWO MINI LAMA-

CHA DOELINGS, $300 OBO for both. Also Mini Alpine $150. Serious calls only. (828) 429-6319

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. 2 females. Sophie and Lily. Born March 24, 2023. Shots and dewormed. CKC registered. $400 each. (704) 477-4341

CONTURNIX QUAIL $5. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Bob Whites $8.00. Hatching Eggs. Guineas $10. (704) 476-9943 jw28178@gmail.com

CARS & TRUCKS

1995 TOYOTA 2WD PICKUPS Good condition. 177,00 miles. Call 704-276-2424 for more details.

1998 FORD CROWN VICTORIA 136,000 miles. Great Deal! clean, one owner. Great car for Uber driver. (704) 5387661

extras. $3,000 OBO. 980-429-7018.

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006 POLK COUNTY SUNNYVIEW, NC FOR SALE BY OWNER. Convenient location, 4 acre wooded house lot on quiet country road. $52,000. Owner financing available. 828-429-3287.

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

3BR, 2BA HOUSE .62 ACRE. Metal roof, vinyl siding, brick underpinned. New: flooring, chair-height commode, paint. Nice yard, wrap-around porch. $160,000. 828-453-8941.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

Call for Price. 3 bedroom 1 bath, small house, good neighborhood. (704) 538-7661 2 BEDROOM MOBILE HOME. Free water, pets welcome $675 mo. Call anytime 704-718-9651 MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $210 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 4734299

2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments, 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby, NC or call for more information 704-4871114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

LABRADOODLE PUPS. Beautiful rust, black, blond, and white pups, family raised. Shots and wormed, dad registered poodle, mom is F1 Labradoodle. 9 weeks old and ready to go! (704) 974-6760 susan.mccraw55@gmail.com

FREE CATS AND KITTENS. Please come to 627 Crow Rd., Shelby NC. Free cats and kittens. We cannot afford to feed them any longer. All are tame. (704) 284-1381 natalieannhicks@ gmail.com

LAB PUPPIES, AKC REGISTERED. Champion Bloodlines, First Shots and Wormed. Ready Aug 18. (252)333-0377 (252) 3330377 TravisHardison@gmail. com KOI FISH FOR SALE. 2”-4” all colors; wholesale price $1. each- minimum 25 fish. (864) 546-2778 brendasherman9@ gmail.com

2009 FORD EDGE 265,000 miles, Best Offer! (704) 473-1289 rebecca_peeler@ yahoo.com

2009 PONTIAC G6 4 door, Red. 38500 miles, Runs great. Call or text (828) 4900559

2006 HONDA ACCORD SDN, 4-Door. 4 Cylinder, Dark Blue, Grey Leather Interior, Automatic, only 75,000 miles, Sunroof, Michelin Tires, Excellent Condition. $8300. Call 704974-4851

1994 FORD RANGER. ALUMINUM WHEELS, chrome grill, cruise, tilt, V6, 106,000 miles, $2950. 828-287-3820.

2008 HONDA ODYSSEY,

2007 HARLEY-DAVIDSON ELECTRA GLIDE, approx. 25,000 miles, JnR air ride on rear, LA Choppers Strip Bar handle bars, Polk Audio speakers, tweeters and amp, Screaming Eagle stage one intake, with K&N filter, Road King seat. $9,000. 704-418-1837.

VACATIONS

PERMANENT CAMP SPOTS

112 KENTBURY DRIVE. Grover, NC. CAMPER. Weekly Rent $275. Deposit $800. App Fee $25 per adult. Includes water/power. 704-214-4180. 135-127 WIGGINS LANE. Kings Mountain, NC. Singlewide. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath. Rent $, 1375. Deposit $1375 Ap Fee $25 per adult. 704412-4180.

1321 S. LAFAYETTE STREET. Apt. C, Shelby, NC

1 bedroom, 1bathroom. Rent $575 Deposit $575. App Fee $25 Per adult. 704-214-4180

112 BOWEN ST., SHELBY, NC. Duplex, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom. Rent $675, Deposit $675. App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

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

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. CKC Registered, 8 wks old, shots & worming UTD. These puppies will make great family protectors. $200 ea. (704) 466-3135

AVAILABLE. 680 NC HWY 226 Casar, NC. Monthly rent is $500 that includes up to $125 in utilities. Deposit is $375. App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180. OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-718-2659.

1624-17 S. POST ROAD. Shelby NC. Singlewide, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath. Rent $975., Deposit $975. Application Fee $25 per adult. This includes up to $125 in utilities. 704214-4180.

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH DUPLEX. Central heat

HICKORY CREEK APART-

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

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $600 per month. 828-382-0475.

Recall of some Digoxin tablets due to label mix-up

Marlex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is voluntarily recalling one lot of Digoxin Tablets USP, 0.125mg and one lot of Digoxin Tablets USP, 0.25mg to the consumer level due to Label Mix-Up. Bottles of Digoxin Tablets, USP 0.125mg s are incorrectly labeled and contain Digoxin Tablets USP,

0.25mg Tablets. Bottles of Digoxin Tablets USP, 0.25mg are incorrectly labeled and contain Digoxin Tablets USP, 0.125mg.

Digoxin Tablets USP, 0.125mg are yellow, circular, beveled, uncoated tablets scored between "N" and "201" on one side and plain on the other.

Digoxin Tablets USP,

CAMPSITE

0.25mg are white to offwhite, circular. beveled, uncoated tablets scored between "N" and "202" on one side and plain on the other.

The label mix-up can cause overdosing or underdosing in patients who unknowingly take the wrong dose. Patients who intend to take Digoxin

Tablets USP, 0.125mg, but unknowingly Digoxin 0.25mg would receive a super potent dose and can experience significant drug toxicity (mental disorientation, dizziness, blurred vision, memory loss, and fainting) from the unintentional overdose.

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column, and each 3 by 3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9 using logic.

? ? ? ?

Answers

By JIM MILLER Editor

Retirement Planning Tips for Single Women

Dear Savvy Senior,

What retirement planning tips can you recommend to single women? I’m a divorced 58-year-old women with a teenaged son and have very little saved for retirement.

Financially Vulnerable

Dear Vulnerable,

It’s an unfortunate reality, but many single women – whether they’re divorced, widowed or never married – face much greater financial challenges in retirement than men.

The reasons behind this are because women tend to earn less money – about 82 cents for every dollar that men make, on average, and they have shorter working careers than men due to raising children and/or caring for aging parents. And less money earned usually translates into less money saved and a lower Social Security benefit when you retire.

In addition, women live an average of five years longer than men, which requires their retirement income to stretch farther for living expenses and healthcare costs. And, according to some studies, women tend to have less confidence about finan-

cial issues than men, which means they don’t always manage their money as well as they should.

Because of these issues, it’s very important that women educate themselves on financial matters and learn how to save more effectively. Here are some tips and resources that may help.

Start Saving Aggressively

If your employer offers a retirement plan, such as a 401K, you should contribute enough to at least capitalize on a company match, if available. And if you can swing it, contribute even more. In 2023, you can save as much as $22,500 in a 401(k), or $30,000 to those 50 and older, due to the catch-up rule.

If you don’t have a workplace plan, consider opening a Traditional or Roth IRA. Both are powerful tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts that let you contribute up to $6,500 annually, or $7,500 when you’re over 50. And if you’re self-employed, consider a SEP-IRA, SIMPLE-IRA and/or a solo 401(k), all of which can help reduce your taxable income while putting money away for retirement.

Also, if you have a high-deductible health insurance policy (at least $1,500 for self-only coverage or $3,000 for family coverage), you should consider opening a health savings account (HSA). This is a triple tax advantage tool that can be used to sock away funds pre-tax, which will lower your taxable income; the money in the account grows tax-free; and if you use the money for eligible medical expenses, the withdrawals are tax-free too.

Pay Off Debts

If you have debt, you need to get it under control. If you need help with this, consider a nonprofit credit-counseling agency that provides free or low-cost advice and solutions, and can help you set up a debt management plan. To locate a credible agency in your area, use the National Foundation for Credit Counseling website at NFCC.org (800-388-2227), or the or the Financial Counseling Association of America FCAA.org (800-450-1794).

Find Help

To help you educate yourself on financial matters like retirement planning, saving and investing, health care, annuities and more, a top resource is the Women’s In-

stitute for a Secure Retirement at WiserWomen.org.

And to help you get up to speed on Social Security, visit SSA.gov/people/women. This web page, dedicated to women, provides helpful publications like “What Every Woman Should Know,” along with links to benefit calculators and your personal Social Security account to help you figure out your future earnings at different retirement ages.

You should also consider getting a financial assessment with a fee-only financial advisor. Costs for these services will vary from around $150 to $300 per hour, but this can be very beneficial to help you setup a retirement plan you can follow. See NAPFA.org or GarrettPlanningNetwork. com to locate an advisor in your area.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.