Bauman named KM Postmaster
Earlier this year Jeffrey Bauman was officially named the Kings Mountain Postmaster, a position he is honored to hold. Bauman said, “As Postmaster, my goal is to ensure that customers of the Kings Mountain Post Office receive the best possible service whether it’s mail and package delivery or retail services.”
The U.S. Postal Service has a long-standing tradition of connecting people— through letters, packages, and reliable service. Bauman is committed to upholding that tradition while working to enhance the customer experience in every way possible.
“The Postal Service continues to modernize operations to better serve customers. They are becoming more financially sustainable, strengthening our workforce, investing in our high-speed processing and delivery network, using the latest technology and logistics, and ultimately providing service excellence to our customers,”
said Bauman.
“Whether it’s ensuring timely deliveries, improving our retail services, answering your questions about postal products and services, my goal is to make our post office a place of trust and support for everyone,” said Bauman. Bauman is honored to be part of a great postal team in Kings Mountain, and proud to serve this community as the Postmaster.”
A New Vision in Motion
Construction to begin at Thombs Walking Track
A new chapter begins for the City of Kings Mountain as the long-envisioned renovation of Thombs Walking Track at Watterson Park officially breaks ground on Monday, November 3, 2025. This project is a major step in the city’s comprehensive Master Parks and Recreation Plan, setting the stage for exciting improvements that reflect community needs and future growth.
Project Features Include:
• A fully renovated walking track
• Brand new restroom facilities
• A welcoming entry sign and information kiosk
• Comfortable benches and a covered picnic table
What to Expect During Construction:
For the safety of residents, the walking track will be temporarily closed during the renovation period. The city anticipates completion of this initial phase by mid-April 2026, weather and conditions permitting. Regular updates and progress highlights will be shared with the community throughout the project timeline.
For more information and project updates, visit www. cityofkm.com or follow the City of Kings Mountain on social media.
Dashing through the Snow Performances in November
Kings Mountain Little Theatre and Bobby and Tosha Dearmin – Cleveland County Farm Bureau Insurance present Dashing through the Snow, directed by David Baez. Performances will be at The Joy Theatre on November 7, 8, 14, 15 at 7:30 PM and November 8, 9, 16 at 3:00 PM.
Tickets: Adults $20 and students and senior citizens: $10
Accepting season member reservations at tickets@kmlt. org & 704-730-9408. Online ticket sales available at www. kmlt.org
It’s four days before Christmas in Tinsel, Texas, and a parade of eccentric guests arrive at the Snowflake Inn to deck the halls with holiday hilarity. Trina, the innkeeper, has more than she can handle! It’s clear it will take more than a kiss See DASHING, Page 4A
Great Pumpkin Parade coming to Kings Mountain on Oct. 31
Trick or Treat, Bags of Sweets, Ghosts and Goblins walk down the street!
The City of Kings Mountain will host its annual “Great Pumpkin Halloween Parade” on Friday, October 31. Children, along with their parents, are invited to gather at Cherokee Street Parking at 9:30 am to line up
for this spectacular spooky parade. At 10:00 am, the foot parade will travel to the Gazebo at Patriots Park for a howling good time. This event is open to children aged newborn to 4. School groups of children up to age seven are welcome as well.
Kings Mountain Marketing, Tourism and Events Department, Mauney Memorial Library’s Harris Children’s Department, in cooperation with Dance Magic Studio, Cleveland County Childcare
Connections, and Cleveland County Partnership for Children, will provide entertainment, games, Halloween stories, songs, sing-alongs, and fun for all. Local merchants are encouraged to dress in costumes to greet the children and hand out candy along the parade route. Tables will be provided at Patriots Park for businesses to use to give away candy and treats.
Afterward, children and parents are welcome to stay and play, have a pic-
or
The parade will start at the Cherokee Street parking lot and continue to Mountain Street, turn left on Battleground, cross Battleground at W. Gold Street, and ends at Patriots Park. For additional information, call 704-730-2101 or visit the website at www. kingsmountainevents.com.
Moore fights to continue WNC recovery during the shutdown
U.S. Congressman Tim Moore of Kings Mountain introduced the Disaster Relief Continuity Act to ensure the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) disaster recovery efforts continue uninterrupted, despite Senate Democrats blocking a clean House-passed bill to keep the government open.
“House Republicans did our jobs to pass a bill to keep the government open and continue Helene recovery in Western North Carolina and other communities that are rebuilding from natural disasters,” said Congressman Moore. But Senate Democrats blocked it.
“Democrats are playing politics with people’s livelihoods and putting disaster recovery at risk just to jam through their $1.5 trillion liberal wish list. My Disaster Relief Continuity Act would ensure that Western
government shutdown.
North Carolinians continue receiving the help they need, regardless of the dysfunction in Washington,” he said.
The Disaster Relief Continuity Act would temporarily authorize FEMA to continue essential disaster
operations during a lapse in government funding. This includes life-saving response activities, continued payments for ongoing recovery projects, and support personnel working in federally declared disaster areas. The bill prohibits any funding for unrelated programs, new policy development, or nonessential administrative functions. In his floor speech in support of the Continuing Resolution, Congressman Moore said, “If the government is shut down, those relief efforts, which are vital to my state, vital to other states, including California that are dealing with cleaning up from disasters, vital to making sure that those things continue, if we shut this government down, those efforts will stop. That is malpractice. We cannot do that.
2025 Community Table Thanksgiving Meals Sat., Nov. 22
The 2025 Community Table Thanksgiving Meals are scheduled in six (6) different locations around the county on SATURDAY, November 22, at 4 pm. You read that right, SATURDAY instead of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Feeding Kids Cleveland
County. decided to change the event to Saturday in hopes of increasing participation and welcoming more folks to the table for this wonderful, community-wide meal.
This year's locations are a little different. We have two different locations from last year. Please see below for this year's locations:
• Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 220 N. Watterson Street, Kings Mountain, NC
• Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (Waco), 235
A W. Black Street, Cherryville, NC
• Jefferson Park, 915 Buffalo Street, Shelby, NC
• Bobby Bell Pavilion (NEW), 126 West Marion Street, Shelby, NC
• Holly Oak Park, 809 Holly Oak Road, Shelby, NC
• Burns High School (NEW), 307 E. Stagecoach Trail, Lawndale, NC We hope you will attend one of the meals at a location near you on Saturday, November 22, at 4 pm. All are welcome!
JEFFREY BAUMAN KM Postmaster
Last year’s parade begins. Photo by Gabriel Thomas
nic lunch, take photos with the Peanuts gang in Linus’ pumpkin patch,
dine in one of the convenient downtown restaurants.
Congressman Tim Moore at the Broad River in Rutherford County, encouraging aid to continue during the
Photo provided by Tim Moore
What Does Iryna's Law Accomplish?
Last week, Senator Ted Alexander shared with his constituents in NC District 44, which includes Cleveland, Lincoln, and part of Gaston County, just what Iryna's Law accomplishes. In his message, Sen. Alexander shared, “Iryna’s Law brings meaningful reform to North Carolina’s justice system by ensuring violent and repeat offenders are held accountable and that public safety remains the top priority.
“This legislation eliminates the option for certain defendants to be released on just a written promise to appear and creates a new category for violent offenses, triggering stricter pretrial conditions. For those charged with violent crimes, there is now a presumption against release unless a judge determines it can be done safely.
“If pretrial release is allowed, the conditions are firm and consistent:
• First arrest: Only a secured bond or house arrest with electronic monitoring is permitted.
• Second or subsequent arrest: Only house arrest with monitoring is allowed.
• Three or more prior convictions (Class 1 misdemeanor or higher) within ten years also require house arrest with monitoring.
“Counties that do not currently have GPS monitoring contracts must now establish agreements with monitoring
SENATOR TED ALEXANDER
vendors, at the defendant’s expense. Those unable to pay will remain in custody.
“To ensure greater accountability in judicial decisions, Iryna’s Law requires officials to review a defendant’s criminal history, make written findings explaining any release decision, and establish consequences— including possible suspension—for failing to follow these requirements. The law also authorizes the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court or the Chief District Court Judge to initiate suspension proceedings for magistrates who do not comply.
“Recognizing the link between mental health and public safety, the law mandates mental health evaluations in certain cases—such as when a defendant charged with a violent crime has a recent history of involuntary commitment or when there is reason
to believe they are experiencing a crisis. It also directs the North Carolina Collaboratory to study how mental health and the justice system intersect, as well as how electronic monitoring and other alternatives can be improved.
Other key provisions include:
• Treating crimes committed on public transit as an aggravating factor during sentencing.
• Requiring death penalty appeals to be heard within 24 months in the county of conviction.
• Clarifying procedures for defendants lacking the capacity to proceed to trial, ensuring courts consider involuntary commitment before dismissing charges.
• Extending juvenile probation and supervision terms for violent offenses and protecting victims’ rights to notification.
• Providing funding for new district attorney and legal assistant positions in Mecklenburg County to help implement these reforms.
Senator Alexander concluded, “Together, these measures make North Carolina’s justice system stronger, fairer, and more responsive to the needs of victims and families. Iryna’s Law stands as a tribute to Iryna’s memory and a promise that her tragedy will bring lasting change for the safety of all.”
KMPD needs the publics’ help locating stolen street bike
The Kings Mountain Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in locating the pictured Vitacci Raven 250cc Enduro street bike, which was stolen from near S. Deal Street, Kings Mountain, NC, between October 9th and October 11th.
The bike has black fairings and a red and white “250” sticker on both sides.
Anyone who may have seen this bike or has information regarding its whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Cutler with the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704734-4610 and reference case number KM202502777.
Tips may also be submitted anonymously through Cleveland County Crime Stoppers by using the QR code provided with this post.
Fentanyl lab dismantled after “Blue Hammer” investigation
A major fentanyl bust occurred in Gaston County on October 17. The discovery was the result of a six-month undercover investigation, called “Blue Hammer,” led by Gastonia Police Vice Detectives and federal agents.
The investigation culminated with the identification of an active fentanyl lab operating out of the Stanley residence. Inside, investigators found a highly contaminated environment requiring North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) laboratory
agents to wear full hazmat protection to collect and remove evidence safely.
The operation yielded over 10,000 fentanyl pills, and two portable pill press machines used to make counterfeit fentanyl-laced pills.
Seizing a functioning lab and its production equipment is considered rare, as such operations are often hidden and moved frequently to avoid detection. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is $300,000 to $400,000. Two suspects have been
arrested in connection with the investigation:
• 29-year-old Phillip McGill, Jr.
• 27-year-old Tryiq Curry.
The Gastonia Police Department extends special thanks to our federal partners, the Stanley Police Department, the Gaston County Police Department, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for their vital assistance in this investigation.
CCSO investigates late-night shooting in Grover
On the night of October 13, at approximately 10:55 p.m., the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a suspicious person at 138 Mallard Drive in Grover.
According to investigators, the homeowner became concerned after noticing lights on inside a nearby home currently under renovation. Knowing the property should have been unoccupied, the homeowner stepped outside to investigate and observed a man in a yellow sweatshirt carrying an un-known item near the residence. The homeowner confronted the individual, at which point the suspect fired a shot at him. Fortu-nately, the homeowner was not injured and immediately called 911. A neighbor, alerted by the sound of gunfire, also went outside to assess the situation. During the encounter, the neighbor reportedly saw the suspect make a threatening movement. Fearing the sus-pect was about to fire, the neighbor discharged his weapon. The suspect fled the scene on foot and escaped in a vehicle believed to be an Audi. Currently, authorities have not confirmed any injuries. The incident remains under active investiga-tion, and the Sheriff’s Office is working to identify and locate the occupants of the Audi involved. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 4844822 or Crime Stoppers at (704) 481-8477. Tips submitted to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous.
Missing Person Alert: KMPD
Kings Mountain Police Department (KMPD) requests the public’s help to provide information about the whereabouts of a missing woman from the com-
On October 13, Julia Archage-Carcamo (30 years old) was reported missing by a family member. Julia was last seen on the morning of October 11, 2025, on surveillance footage at a gas station in Duncan, South Carolina. Later that same day, she is believed to have returned to the Kings Mountain area.
Julia Archage-Carcamo is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing around
160 pounds, with blue eyes. She has a distinctive rose tattoo on her neck. At the time she was last seen, she was wearing a black hoodie, black sweatpants, white flip-flops (with yellow smiley faces), and a green toboggan. She is also believed to be wearing a blue-colored wig. If you have any information regarding Julia’s whereabouts or any recent sightings, please contact Detective A.J. Geissinger at the Kings Mountain Police Department at (704) 7340444.
Your assistance is greatly appreciated as the KMPD works to locate Julia and ensure her safety.
On the night of October 17, /2025 between 9:00pm and 10:00pm, intentional fires were set at two different churches in the Casar, NC area. Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded alongside local fire department personnel and Cleveland County Fire Marshalls Office. The churches affected, Tabernacle Baptist Church on Corinth Church Rd and Calvary’s Cross Baptist Church on Mt. Zion Church Rd., were both damaged by suspected arson. Fortunately, both fires were spotted by citizens who quickly put the fire out before significant damage occurred. These events are still under investigation. If you have any information regarding these arsons or have seen anything suspicious in the area around these times, please call the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office (704-4844822) or Crimestoppers (704-481-8477).
KMPD is looking for this Vitacci Raven 250cc Enduro street bike that was stolen last week. Photos by KMPD
View of the stolen motorcycle from the back.
Missing: Julia Archage-Carcamo – Photo by KMPD
SBI agents dismantle seized fentanyl manufacturing equipment – Photo by the Gastonia Police Department
Kings Mountain honors veterans on November 11
The City of Kings Mountain encourages everyone to support our veterans by attending the Veterans Day Parade and Observance, Tuesday, November 11. The parade will begin at the Joy Theatre at 10:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend. The tribute to veterans continues at the Mauney Memorial Library. Stop by the library at 100 South Piedmont Avenue through October 31 to make “Thank You” cards for veterans in the community. The Patrick Senior Center will also honor veterans with a breakfast on Thursday, November 6. All veterans are invited to attend and bring a guest. Please call the Patrick Senior Center at (704) 7340447 to RSVP by October 31. The center is located at 909 East King Street.
The City of Kings Mountain will honor veterans with a parade on November 11 – Image by the City of Kings Mountain Tourism and Events
Call (704) 730-2101 or access the website: https:// www.kingsmountainevents. com for more information.
City Council meeting
a recent call to Crisis Assistance Ministry in which an emergency concern was solved with effective communication and forethought.
By Allyson Parker
Kings Mountain City Council held a regular meeting on October 14, 2025 at Council Chambers at 101 West Gold St, Kings Mountain.
The meeting began with the call to order and determination of a quorum by Mayor Robert Wagman, followed by an Invocation by Pastor Scott Whitley from East Gold Street Wesleyan Church, and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance
There was a motion to adopt a proposed agenda that only emergency items would be able to be added to the agenda, per the request of the City Manager. Such “emergency” items shall be defined by the city manager. Approval by both the Mayor and City Manager is also required.
There were several citizens present to voice concerns, including:
• Citizen inclusivity in decision-making
Councilman Todd Carpenter introduced the newly hired human resource supervisor, Kourtney Kennedy. Ms. Kennedy addressed the mayor and the council by expressing her gratitude in becoming the new HR supervisor for Kings Mountain, a position in which she brings twelve years of experience. She reiterated her passion for serving employees and protecting employers.
Jimmy West agreed that “it is important for everyone to do their part for the betterment of Kings Mountain” and asked everyone to “put the past in the past and move forward together. It is important that we all work together, now.”
Mountain Redevelopment Commission. The effective date of such will be May 31, 2026.
• Need for additional police officers
• Increasing crime occurrences
• The need for financial aid for senior adults
• Financial aid for upcoming heating costs
• The importance of recreational centers for seniors and youths
Council members voiced their opinions regarding teamwork and communication.
Councilman Dee urged each council member to make a strategic plan with the city manager. He stated this approach would enable the most efficient problem-solving. One example of effective communication he noted was
Mayor Robert Wagman thanked Mr. Simpson, one of the citizen speakers, for his passion in taking the care and concern to speak in front of the council members. Mayor Wagman also complimented workers at Kings Mountain City, stating that he felt they were excellent employees.
Mayor Pro Tem Annie Tombs wanted to leave the citizens with one thought: “I do want the residents to know that we hear you speak and we are here for you.”
Motion to adopt the following consent agenda:
A. Adopt the minutes of the meeting of August 12, 2025 and August 26, 2025.
B. Adopt a resolution to rescind 25-32 and titled, “Dissolving the Kings Mountain Housing Authority.
C. Adopt the resolution to dissolve the Kings Mountain Housing Authority while transferring the responsibilities, duties, and powers of that Authority to the Kings
D. Motion to adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 97 of the Code of Ordinance for the City of Kings Mountain in its entirety, and adopting the amended Solid Waste Fee Schedule. Motion was passed. E. Motion to award a contract to Harvin Engineering, PLLC for professional engineering services in support of the Lead and Copper Service Line Replacement Project, authorize the City Manager to execute the Professional Services Agreement, and amend the budget to appropriate funding needed to complete all engineering servicesMark Breen, City Engineer. Motion was passed. The regular meeting motion began with a motion to adopt a resolution to add KM Police Sargent over criminal investigations as an authorized official with the NC ABC Control Commission on suitability for staffing and locations for ABC permits which fall within the city of Kings Mountain. This would allocate two people to be available to approve the above, whereas, at present, there is only one person. Councilman Miller made the motion to approve, and the motion was passed.
Council Member Mike Butler expressed gratitude to fellow Council Member Phil Dee for his diligent volunteer work in providing food to the Crisis Assistance Ministry. Jimmy West agreed and further stated, “Let’s all work together and move forward together, that is what makes the difference.” Motion to adjourn, meeting concluded.
Daylight saving time ends on November 2
On November 2, daylight saving time ends, and we will turn our clocks back one hour. The end of daylight saving time can feel like a mixed bag. On one hand, the days grow shorter, and evenings arrive more quickly. On the other hand, we gain an extra hour in the morning, which might make the day feel a bit longer, depending on your perspective. If you enjoy spending time outdoors after work or school, losing that evening sunlight might be disappointing. But if you’re someone who values your sleep or likes having more time in the morning, the time change can be a welcome shift. The arrival of fall brings a sense of joy and anticipation for what lies ahead— pumpkin-spiced treats, warm knit sweaters, vibrant autumn
foliage, and brisk, refreshing air. However, there’s one part of the season that tends to spark mixed feelings. As summer fades into fall, the change isn’t just about cozy traditions like apple picking, horror movie marathons, and hearty meals. It also marks the countdown to the end of daylight saving time (DST), bringing with it earlier sunsets and longer nights. When daylight saving time began back in the spring, we moved our clocks forward, welcoming longer days filled with sunshine well into the evening—perfect for beach days, poolside
lounging, and enjoying a cone from your favorite ice cream shop. But now that fall is in full swing, we’re preparing to “fall back,” and the daylight hours are slowly shrinking as the sun sets earlier each day. In simple terms, daylight saving time involves setting the clocks ahead by one hour in the spring ("spring forward") and back by one hour in the fall ("fall back"). According to The Old Farmer’s Al-manac, the purpose behind this practice is to conserve energy and make better use of natural daylight. Pushing the clock forward in the spring extends evening daylight during the warmer months, while turning it back in the fall provides more light during the early morning hours of winter.
“Iryan’s Law” takes effect December 1
Governor Josh Stein signed House Bill 307, known as “Iryan’s Law” on October 3, marking a significant step in North Carolina’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety and protect vulnerable communities. The legislation, which passed with bipartisan support in the General Assembly, was celebrated during a signing ceremony where Stein emphasized the state’s responsibility to ensure that “everyone deserves to be and feel safe in their daily lives.”
The law, named in honor of Iryna Zarutska, a 23 year old Ukrainian refugee who was tragically killed on a LYNX transit train in Charlotte, NC, in August 2025. Iryan's tragic story galvanized lawmakers and advocates introduced new measures designed to close gaps in the state’s criminal justice and public health systems. While the bill’s provisions are multifaceted, its central aim is to prevent future tragedies by enhancing accountability, expanding resources for families, and ensuring that law enforcement and health officials have the tools they need to intervene before harm occurs.
The law takes effect on December 1, 2025. That means its provisions will apply to offenses committed on or after that date.
Speaking at the signing, Governor Stein underscored the moral imperative behind the legislation. “We can and must do more to keep North Carolina safe,” he said, noting that the law reflects both the lessons of past failures and the aspirations of a safer future.
Stein framed the bill as part of a broader vision for public safety that balances enforcement with prevention. “This law is about protecting our children, supporting our families, and making sure that no parent has to endure the kind of loss that inspired this legislation,” he said.
The bill’s namesake, Iryan, became a symbol of the urgent need for reform after his death revealed systemic shortcomings in how the state responds to threats against children and families. Advocates, including Iryan’s family, collaborated closely with lawmakers to ensure that his legacy would lead to meaningful change.
During the ceremony, Stein acknowledged their courage. “Iryan’s family turned their grief into action,” he said. “Because of their advocacy, countless other children will be safer. That is a powerful legacy.”
While the Governor’s
remarks focused on the human impact, the legislation itself contains several concrete reforms:
• Enhanced Reporting Requirements: Agencies must now share critical information more quickly when a child is at risk, ensuring that warning signs are not overlooked.
• Stronger Accountability Measures: Law enforcement and social services are required to coordinate more closely, with clear timelines for intervention.
• Expanded Support Services: Families in crisis will have greater access to counseling, emergency housing, and other resources designed to prevent escalation.
• Training and Oversight: The law mandates new training for officers and caseworkers, as well as oversight mechanisms to track compliance.
These provisions, Stein argued, are designed to “make sure that the system works the way it should — to protect, not to fail.”
House Bill 307 passed with support from both Democrats and Republicans, reflecting a rare moment of unity in a polarized political climate. Lawmakers from across the aisle joined Stein at the signing, praising the collaborative process that led to the bill’s passage.
Representative sponsors of the bill highlighted the importance of listening to families and communities.
“This is not about politics,” one legislator said during the event. “It’s about doing what’s right for our children.”
Stein echoed that sentiment, noting that “when it comes to protecting kids, there should be no partisanship. This is about our shared values as North Carolinians.”
Advocacy groups that had long pushed for reforms welcomed the signing as a victory for grassroots organizing. Child welfare organizations, public health advocates, and community leaders attended the ceremony, many of them wearing ribbons in Iryan’s memory.
One advocate described the law as “a promise kept
to families who have been let down in the past.” Another added, “This is a reminder that when communities speak up, change is possible.”
Governor Stein placed Iryan’s Law within the context of his broader public safety agenda, which includes tackling violent crime, addressing the opioid crisis, and investing in mental health services.
“Safety is not just about policing,” he said. “It’s about prevention, about health, about making sure people have the support they need before tragedy strikes.”
He also emphasized the importance of trust between communities and government. “When people feel that the system is working for them, they are more likely to reach out for help. That trust saves lives,” Stein said.
While the signing of Iryan’s Law was met with celebration, Stein acknowledged that the work is far from over. “This law is a step forward, but it is not the end,” he said. “We will continue to push for reforms that make North Carolina safer for everyone.”
He urged continued vigilance and collaboration, calling on lawmakers, agencies, and citizens alike to remain engaged. “We owe it to Iryan, and to every child in this state, to keep going,” Stein concluded.
Early reactions to the law have been largely positive. Editorial boards praised the bipartisan cooperation, while community leaders highlighted the tangible benefits for families. Critics, however, cautioned that implementation will be key, warning that without adequate funding and oversight, the law’s promises could fall short.
Still, the prevailing mood at the signing was one of hope. As one parent in attendance put it, “This law gives us a little more peace of mind. It tells us that our leaders are listening.”
The enactment of House Bill 307 — Iryan’s Law — represents both a legislative milestone and a deeply personal tribute. By embedding accountability, prevention, and support into the state’s framework, the law seeks to honor Iryan’s memory with lasting protection for North Carolina’s citizens.
Governor Stein’s words captured the spirit of the day: “Everyone deserves to be and feel safe in their daily lives. This law is about making that promise real.”
Interpersonal Relationships and Critical Conversation
Your relationships will be few, if you wait for everyone to come to you. More and more people are living in isolation. Their world is their telephone. Their friends are on their phones. Their church experiences are on their phones. Their recreation is on their phones.
Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial
Most all of us spend more time on a cellphone than we ever dreamed of doing. I for one do a lot of my vocational work on my cellphone, so I look at my phone as much as anyone. However, man cannot live by phone alone. There has to be more to life than a cellphone, tablet or computer. There is a world out there. There are people who live in the world who are just like you. They crave connections and relationships. Most are finding them on their cellphones through social media or various Internet sites.
The sad reality of this is that people aren’t really connecting to other people. Cellphone or social media communication is typically very surface
communication. We aren’t really sharing that much about ourselves nor understanding that much about what others are doing or going through. Usually, we have perceptions that are not completely accurate.
Interpersonal communication is critical to the mental and spiritual health of our planet. We need communication and real in-person talking.
Telephone conversations are critical but personal visits, when possible, are even better.
Political leaders must sit down at the table and talk. The government cannot accomplish anything without verbal one-onone exchanges or at least small group dialogues.
Family gatherings are critical. People need to feel connected to family. Your family may be small, but you need each other and love must always be the priority. How many terrorist shooters might have been saved from their heinous acts if family and possibly a couple of friends could have had real connections to those people?
As parents, we often back off too much. We
give too much freedom and too much space. We need to stay right in the middle of our children’s lives as much as we possibly can. This means keeping the conversations going. We have to continue to care about what they are doing, where they are going and what is going on in their lives. This becomes very difficult as children grow up and don’t want their parents in their business.
Keep in mind that you are still a mom or a dad. You can’t treat your 21-year-old like they are ten, but you can still keep reaching out, expressing love, giving encouragement and embracing them emotionally. Of course, even then, some children grow up to choose destructive lifestyles or make horrific life decisions. People have minds of their own. Yet, if parents and family members keep reaching out to each other it might just be enough to keep a loved one on a good path and living a good life.
You and your family to orchestrate and implement this dire initiative.
The church is located at 122 El Bethel Rd., Kings Mountain. Plates $8, Biscuits $3-4. El
Come out and enjoy a Country Breakfast and support Scout Troop 92 on Saturday, November 1 at 7AM-10 AM
DASHING
From Page 1A under the mistletoe to keep her spirits merry and bright. But a Christmas Eve wedding that unites the Futrelle sisters and their best friend, Raynerd, takes a delightful turn that leads to a laugh-’tilyour-sides-ache climax! This Christmas comedy is more
fun than a joyride in a onehorse open sleigh.
The cast includes: Maddie Spurling, Jim Champion, Wendy Clower, Leslie Brown, Greg Dixon, Chad Spurling, Jackie Newton, Denise McCoy, Linda Sharp, Kevin Burke, Synthia Kearney, Natalie Gray, Lesley Villarose, Estelle Grabert, Caswell Martin, Nick Howell, Hannah Hood
Kings Mountain Little Theatre, Inc. is a volunteer based, 501c3 tax-exempt community theater. It owns and operates the Joy Theatre and the Liberty Mountain Garden. It is a funded affiliate of the Cleveland County Arts Council and is supported in part by a Grassroots Grant from the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency.
IRYNA ZARUTSKA Inspired the new N.C. Iryan’s Law –Photo by James Funeral Home
Bethel UMC Country breakfast supports Scout Troop 92!
N.C. Forest Service calls on the public to help prevent wildfires
As North Carolina’s Fall wildfire season approaches, the N.C. Forest Service (NCFS) urges the public to protect homes and neighborhoods by reducing wildfire risk and using recommended best practices to prevent wildfires.
“Wildfire prevention and risk reduction are two important areas that each of us have the ability to directly impact,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Sometimes a wildfire is inevitable due to circumstances beyond our control such as lightning strikes or downed powerlines. However, most of our wildfires are avoidable as human activity continues to be responsible for more than 99% of all wildfire causes.”
In North Carolina, wildfire activity typically increases in October through early December. From July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, the NCFS responded to nearly 5,600 wildfires that burned more than 34,000 acres. Backyard debris burning, machine and vehicle use, arson and escaped campfires continue to be common ignition sources for human-caused wildfires.
“We’ve just surpassed the one-year mark since Hurricane Helene unleashed significant devastation on so many of our citizens and natural resources,” Troxler added. “Being prepared for wildfire is more important than ever, especially in Western North Carolina where more than 800,000 acres of forestland were damaged, leaving substantial fuel on the ground. Please do
your part to prevent and prepare for wildfires.”
To help create a defensible space and better protect your home from wildfire, the NCFS offers the following guidance:
• Clear off pine needles, dead leaves and anything else that can burn from your roof lines, gutters, decks, porches, patios and along fence lines. Falling embers will be less likely to ignite.
• Store away furniture cushions, mats, potted plants and other decorations from your doors, decks, porches and patios. These items can catch embers and ignite your home if you leave them outside.
• Screen windows and seal any openings. Windblown embers can get into homes easily through vents and other openings, burning the home from the inside out. Walk around your house to see what openings you can screen or temporarily seal up.
• Rake up leaves and mulch at least five feet away from your home. Embers that land in mulch touching your house, deck or fence are a big fire hazard.
• Trim back any shrubs or tree branches closer than five feet from your house, in addition to any overhanging branches.
• Remove anything within 30 feet of your house that can burn such as woodpiles, spare lumber, vehicles and boats – anything that can act as a large source of fuel.
• If ordered to evacuate, make sure all windows and doors are closed tightly and seal up any pet doors. Many
homes are destroyed by embers entering these openings and burning the house from the inside out.
For safe burning practices to help prevent wildfire, the NCFS offers the following guidance:
• Make sure you have a valid permit. You can obtain a burn permit at any N.C. Forest Service office or authorized permitting agent, or online at https://apps.ncagr. gov/burnpermits/.
• Check the weather. Never burn on dry, windy days.
• Keep your fire small,
not tall.
• Be sure you are fully prepared before burning.
To control the fire, you will need a water hose, bucket, steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. Keep a phone nearby, too.
• Never use kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to speed up burning.
• Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfires thoroughly with water. Drown all embers, not just the red ones. When soaked, stir the coals and soak them again. Make sure everything is wet
and that embers are cold to the touch. If you do not have water, mix enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire, being careful not to bury the fire. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area.
If you are adding or changing your Medicare or Healthcare.gov coverage during open enrollment, watch out for unsolicited calls claiming to "help" you find the best deal. Unfortunately, scammers see this open enrollment period as a chance to trick people out of money and personal information.
Open enrollment for Medicare runs through December 7 (Medicare). Medicare Advantage open enrollment is from January 1 to March 31. or within three months of getting Medicare. Heathcare.gov open enrollment begins November 1; December 15 is the last day to enroll or change plans for coverage starting January 1, and January 15 is the last day to enroll for coverage starting February 1.
What you'll learn:
• How scammers use Medicare and Healthcare.gov open enrollment periods to trick consumers into sharing personal or financial information.
• The common tactics scammers use — including fake phone calls, texts, and of-
• Never leave your fire. Stay with it until it is completely out. Where there’s fire, there’s smoke, and if you live in an area where wildfire risk is high, staying smokeready can be critical to personal health and well-being. Take steps now to prepare for wildfire smoke. This is especially important for smoke sensitive individuals including children, active people, older adults and people with heart or lung disease such as asthma. Being prepared means knowing where to find information about air quality and utilizing the air quality index. Use resources like https://www.ncair.org, https://airquality.climate. ncsu.edu/ and https://www. airnow.gov.
To learn more about preparing for and preventing wildfires, visit https://www. preventwildfirenc.org.
Beware of health care cons during open enrollment
fers for “free gifts” or “health screenings.”
• How to protect your information, spot red flags, and verify legitimate assistance when choosing or changing your healthcare coverage.
The BBB Scam Tracker frequently receives reports of scam calls and texts pretending to be from Medicare. In a recent report, one person shared, "They called to have me sign up for a new Medicare card. I declined. They have been persistent in their calls to me and my husband."
In another report, the target reported that a caller pretended to be an agent, "asking if I got a new updated Medicare card in the mail. He then verified my name and mailing address. Then he wanted me to get my old card and read off info to him, such as the date on the lower right side of the card. When he asked me to read my card number, I told him I cannot."
Another consumer reported being targeted through a text message and shared the follow-
ing: "I received a text saying that my health benefits were about to expire, and I needed to call the number to renew. Then, the representative told me I had to pay, and my bank had to verify with them...That's when I knew it was a scam." If you stay on the line, these callers allege they can enroll you in a better plan than what you currently have, according to Scam Tracker reports. This new plan is cheaper, and you can keep all the same services. To get started, all you need to do is provide some personal information, such as your Medicare ID number and your Social Security number. No matter how good the deal sounds and how convincing the caller seems, don't do it! The call is a scam, and sharing personal information will expose you to identity theft. Tips to avoid open enrollment scams: Selecting a health insurance plan can be challenging and complex. Be on the lookout for common red flags.
Gaston County has its 15th confirmed rabies case
On Tuesday, October 14, at approximately 10:30 am, Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement received a call in reference to several cats that had possibly been exposed to a skunk showing neurological issues in the 800 block of Mary’s Grove Road in Cherryville. None of the cats were vaccinated, and one died as a result of the attack. The remaining cats were quarantined until the test results were received. There was no human contact with the skunk. Animal Care and Enforcement Specialists investigated the incident and impounded the skunk on Tuesday, Oct.
14. The skunk was sent to the NC Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh on 10/15/25. The official laboratory results were received on Friday, October 17, at approximately 11:00 am, indicating that the skunk tested positive for rabies. Enforcement Specialist completed a neighborhood canvass around Mary’s Grove Road, Cherryville, on October 17 to notify the community of the positive rabies results and verify rabies vaccinations for family pets in the area. The remaining cats will be kept under a strict quarantine at a local veterinarian’s office for 4 months for observation, in compliance with state regulations, and at the owner’s expense. The Gaston County Police Department Animal Care and Enforcement Division stresses the importance of having a valid rabies vaccination for the health and safety of all pets, their owners, and the community. Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement also notified the Gaston County Department of Health and Human Services about the incident. This represents the 15th confirmed rabies case in Gaston County this year.
The Four Conditions for Healing
(Part 2)
Continued from October 17 Herald
C. Seek My Face Seeking God’s face means longing for His presence, not just His blessings.
• We must stop treating God like an emergency responder and start honoring Him as Lord of all.
• It means turning our eyes from idols—whether money, politics, entertainment, or self—and focusing on Him.
(D) Turn from Their Wicked Ways
• Repentance is not a word of con-
demnation—it’s a word of love. This more that anything moves the heart of God. Repentance denotes re-thinking actions, thoughts, or desires that have violated not only another but more specifically the will of God.
• God calls us to leave behind sin: hatred, racism, greed, sexual immorality, corruption, violence. All of these are sins that not only grieve the heart of God but also showcases that we are in need of a continuous heart change and to surrender our will totally to His.
• America cannot be healed if we will continue to celebrate what God condemns.
(E). HEAL THE LANDGod’s Promise
• “Then will I hear from heaven.” God’s ear is attentive when His people cry out in sincerity.
• “I will forgive their sin.” Forgive-
ness is the greatest need of our nation—it cleanses the soul of the people.
• “I will heal their land.” Healing is possible. The fractures can be mended. The wounds can be bound up. The dry places can live again.
Application to America
• We want economic strength, but God promises spiritual strength first.
• We want national security, but God says that repentance is our best defense.
• We want unity, but God says revival must begin in the church and it becomes the draw line to bring change to the world.
• America will not be changed by legislation, but by restoration through the power of God’s Holy Spirit resignating in the heart and minds of His people.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
• America, the time is urgent. Do not sit on the sideline and watch tragedy unfold. Pray for its demise and make room for God transformational power to prevail.
• The hope of our nation does not rest in political parties, military might, or cultural movements. It rest solely in the plans and will of God.
• Our hope rests in Jesus Christ and in a people who will answer God’s call.
So today, let us humble ourselves. Let us pray like never before. Let us seek His face earnestly. Let us turn from wickedness boldly.
And watch as God keeps His promise—healing our families, our communities, and our nation.
Kings Mountain Area Church Directory
St. Paul United
Methodist Church N. Cansler Street 704-739-1256
Sunrise Baptist Church 208 Mail Road 704-692-3007
Temple Baptist Church 612 N. Cansler Street 704-739-4716
The Favor Center Church 602 Slater Street
True Gospel Holiness Church 1608 Shelby Road 704-739-6764
Unity AME Zion Church 948 Unity Church Road 704-228-0328
Penley’s Chapel
1508 N. Piedmont Ave. • Kings Mountain
Macedonia Baptist Church
1101 S. Battleground Ave.
704-739-6811
Midview Baptist Church
703 Margrace Road
704-739-6711
Mount Zion
Missionary Baptist Church
220 N. Watterson Street
704-739-8354
Mountain View
Agape Church
506 Sparrow Springs Road
704-739-0160
New Beginnings Church of Jesus Christ 541 Crocker Road
704-730-9507
New Bynum Chapel
AME
Zion Church N. Cansler Street
704-739-2606
New Camp Creek
Baptist Church 863 New Camp Creek Ch. Road
704-487-7128
New Life Family
Worship Center 428 Oak Grove Road
704-739-9371
Oak View Baptist Church
1517 York Road
704-739-7831
Pathway Baptist Church 3100 Parkdale Circle 704-734-0852
Patterson Grove
Baptist Church
301 Oak Grove Road
704-739-5826
Penley’s Chapel Church 1805 N Piedmont Ave
704-524-4139
Peoples Baptist Church 1010 Groves Street 704-739-0398
Resurrection Lutheran Church 600 Crescent Circle 704-739-5580
Royal Praise Ministries 2055 Shelby Rd.
Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church 201 N. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-7466
Second Baptist Church 120 Linwood Road 704-739-4216
Shady Grove Baptist Church 339 Shady Grove Road 704-739-8920
Vestibule AME Zion Church 2175 Vestibule Church Road 704-739-7961
Westover Baptist Church 114 Westover Drive
Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member 230 Oak Grove Rd. 704-750-0171
Anew Beginning Baptist Church 415 Dixon School Rd. 704-473-1372
Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700
Arise Church 830 E. King St.
Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road 704-739-7487
Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917
Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan
Carson Memorial Baptist Church 262 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-2247
Central Methodist Church 113 S. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-2471
Cherokee St. Baptist Church 421 S. Cherokee Street 704-739-7697
Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church 618 Chestnut Ridge Road 704-739-4015
Christian Freedom Southern Baptist Church 246 Range Road 704-739-4152
Christ The King Catholic Church 714 Stone Street 704-487-7697
Concord United Methodist Church 2404 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-3571
Cornerstone Church Of God 202 Margrace Road 704-739-3773
Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477
BILLY HOUZE Retired Pastor Lawndale First Baptist Church
Keeping The Memory Alive:
Infant Loss Awareness Candlelight Walk held at Patriot Park Oct. 15
By Allyson Parker The loss of a
brought Dana Anderson and many others together at sPatriot
on October
for the Infant Loss Awareness Candlelight Walk. Dana and her friends arrived early to decorate the Patriot Park in beautiful, fall mums and a pink and blue theme for the event that began at 6 pm.
There is an old adage, “What doesn’t destroy a person will make him or her stronger.” Dana Anderson, founder of the Michael Heath II Foundation, has made the adage her reality.
Like others, she has seen her share of life’s ups and downs; however, Dana is adamant when she speaks out about losing her son, Michael Heath II, as the most heart-wrenching event of her life.
On May 17, 2016, she and Mike Heath (husband) lived through that devastating event. After carrying Michael Heath II for thirty-three weeks and without the knowledge of any complications, they learned that their child was stillborn.
“For many years, if a child died due to stillbirth or miscarriage, most parents were not given any special attention and merely sent home to deal with their loss. So, Mike and I went to grieve our loss, but we grieved differently. We had a difficult time understanding how each of us was grieving; therefore, we also had a difficult time comforting each other. In the end, we lost ourselves and we lost our marriage due to the stress. The end result was a divorce,” said Dana.
The life-shattering events continued for Dana shortly after she was involved in a serious automobile accident in 2017. She not only suffered from mental pain at this point, but the physical pain was tremendous, and she was prescribed painkillers to help.
“The grief was too heavy to carry, and I began to use that medication to cope with the mental anguish I was suffering. Medicine made it easier at times. I mean, I may
have acted like myself on the outside because I was a very functional person, but on the inside, I was not myself at all. I began to feel like I doubted God because I simply did not understand why I had to lose my son.”
At that point in the process, Dana did not understand the five stages of grief, which she cited today as being Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and lastly, Acceptance.
After allowing herself to accept the loss, she decided to do something positive, and the first step was to recover and make herself strong. She went through a seven-step rehab program and is completely free of substance abuse and has been for seven years now. The second goal for her was to celebrate her son’s memory, so she formed the Michael Heath II Foundation, a 501(c)(3), which is the sponsor of the event today.
“When Michael Heath II died physically, I died spiritually, and that is why I do not feel others in the same situation should suffer this grief alone. Although most people have family and friends, it is hard to understand a tragedy unless they have lived through that tragedy. That is why we have this event. We can help others, and we want to help. That’s why it is important to speak that lost child’s name and keep that memory alive,” explained Dana.
Each year since the event began in 2018, it has been centered around a topic of focus. This year’s topic was ‘what it feels
like losing a child from the mother’s perspective.’ Dana began the event by giving a recollection of her journey, and other guest speakers followed, including Shana McPeters, Jennifer Smith, Angela Padgett, Aerial Melia, and Scott Neisler. Each guest spoke about her individual loss, and Scott Neisler thanked the group for giving to their community by sharing their stories. Sarah Braxton easily recapped the topic theme by singing Hard Fault Hallelujah. She was accompanied on stage by Shelia Broom, along with Aerial Melia and her husband on backup and keyboard. As the event neared the end, Dana Anderson led the group in a closing prayer. Then, she invited the guests to approach the stage and take a luminary (pink for girl loss, blue for boy loss, and white if the child’s gender was unknown) to carry as the group walked together, light in hand, in remembrance of their loss and in hope of healing.
Carolina Pottery Festival returns Nov. 1
The Carolina Pottery Festival returns for its 25th year on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the LeGrand Center in Shelby, located at 1800 E. Marion St. There is plenty of free and convenient parking.
This pottery festival attracts crowds of over 1,000 pottery lovers, with close to 100 well-known regional potters showing and selling their work. It is one of the largest "pottery-only" festivals in the Southeast, featuring a wide range of traditional and contemporary work that is functional, deco-rative, and sculptural. Artists are on hand to discuss their inspiration, methods of creation, and answer any questions.
This festival was started by potters for potters and continues to celebrate and honor the rich heritage of pottery in our region. "I'm just amazed that the little
show we started at the fairgrounds is still going on 25 years later and has grown into one of the largest all-pottery shows in the Southeast,” stated Bobbie Black, one of the original organizers.
“We have had a great team of potters to work with, and the Arts Council has been an incredible help. I hope it can continue to grow for another 25 years. It's hard work, but worth it."
New for This Year - Early Bird Admission! You can be one of the first to come in and start shopping before the crowds. Have coffee with the potters while you shop. Be one of the first 50 and receive a commemorative 25th Anniversary Tote Bag.
Vicki Gill, of Bluegill Pottery, is also one of the original organizers. "The Carolina Pottery Festival’s 25th anniversary is so exciting for me because this show
has been a great experience as a participating potter in a wonderful atmosphere over all of its years. It’s in my favorite season and is about my favorite art form—pottery! The talent of the artists involved always inspires me, and I get to create some very personal pieces exclusively for this show. This year, I designed a limited-edition 25th anniversary ornament, which will be available for purchase from the Arts Council only at the festival. I can’t wait to see old friends and meet new ones at the festival!"
Held at the LeGrand Center, located at 1800 E. Marion St. in Shelby, there is plenty of free and convenient parking. Tickets are available in advance and at the door. Regular admission is $8, while Early Bird admission is $10 and can be purchased online online.
Lighting the path for lost children. (Photo provided)
MORRIS SELECTED AS DAR GOOD CITIZEN – Kings Mountain High School student Kenzlie
Addison Morris, daughter of David Morris, Ashley Wilson, and step-mom Heather Morris, was selected as the Kings Mountain DAR Good Citizen for 2025. Connie Phifer Savell (right), Good Citizen Chairman for the Colonel Frederick Hambright Chapter presented Kenzlie with her Good Citizen pin. (Photo provided)
Solero Technologies is closing its Shelby plant by 2026
and
will begin
the
at Solero Technologies’ plant in Shelby (previously known as Kendrion Automotive), located at 1100 Airport Road. The facility currently designs and manufactures high-quality electromagnetic valves, pressure switches, and lighting modules for the automotive and truck markets. produce high-performance valves, switches, actuators, clutches, and control components for a wide variety of automotive, heavy truck, off-road, recreational vehicles, engine systems, and more. In the WARN notice, Solero stated it will permanently lay off 102 workers and close its plant by the end of 2026.
ploys 102 workers.
all Shelby employees with respect and dignity remains steadfast, and maintaining the highest level of quality and service to our customers continues to be our top priority.”
The layoffs are anticipated to occur between Nov. 28, 2025, and March 31, 2026, although exact timing has not yet been determined. Solero said a list of job titles and the number of affected employees for each affected position would be on-site.
According to the company, “This move is designed to create a leaner, more integrated operation that drives efficiency and profitability in a highly competitive market. Throughout this transition, our commitment to treating
Solero explained the closure on its website, stating “Following Shelby’s acquisition by Solero Technologies, the company has decided to consolidate and restructure operations by integrating the Shelby facility into the Water Valley, Mississippi plant. Clutch production will move to the Markdorf plant in Germany.”
In a press release, a Solero company representative said, “The WARN notice filed on September 29 by Solero for its facility in Shelby, North Carolina, is related to a decision the company made following its acquisition of Netherlands-based Kendrion’s automotive business last October. That acquisition included the Kendrion Automotive facility in Shelby, North Carolina, which currently em-
All the workers at the plant, along with key community stakeholders, were informed last year about the company’s plans to eventually close the facility. At the time, we communicated the need to restructure Shelby’s operations and integrate them into Solero’s existing manufacturing footprint over the next 18 to 24 months. That decision was necessary to align with the evolving needs of Solero in a very competitive market and best position our company for future growth.
The legal disclosures provided to the state of North Carolina on Monday are in line with our previously announced plan. We expect to fully wind down the Shelby operations by the end of the first quarter of next year."
On its website, Solero describes the history of the
Shelby plant, saying, “With roots tracing back to 1911, our Shelby, North Carolina facility has been a cornerstone of innovation in advanced component manufacturing for over a century. Originally founded as FAS Controls and later known as Kendrion, this site has grown and evolved into what is now Solero Technologies Shelby, LLC.” After Solero Technologies acquired the Shelby facility in 2024, operations are being integrated into the Water Valley, Mississippi plant to streamline efficiency and ensure competitiveness.
The Shelby facility excels in metal forming, plastic molding, and wire winding, enabling flexible support from low-volume custom orders to high-volume production with competitive pricing and quality.
SOLERO TECHNOLOGIES, SHELBY.
Photo by Solero Technologies
Support the Feeding Kids Cleveland County Giving Campaign
Feeding Kids Cleveland County hopes you will consider supporting its 2025-26 Giving Campaign, A Decade of Difference: Feeding Kids Together! Any amount makes a difference! Its fundraising goal this year is $100,000 as they celebrate 10 years of Feeding Kids Cleveland County. So far, we have raised a quarter of our goal!
They invite you to join us as a sponsor and help expand our impact in Cleveland County:
• Community Builder Sponsor: $15,000 ($3,750 quarterly, $1,250 monthly)
• Empower Sponsor: $10,000 ($2,500 quarterly, $834 monthly)
• Sustain Sponsor: $5,000 ($1,250 quarterly, $417 monthly)
• Support Sponsor: $2,500 ($625 quarterly, $209 monthly)
• Nourish Sponsor: $1,000 ($250 quarterly, $84 monthly)
• Neighbor Sponsor: $360 ($90 quarterly, $30 monthly) Commitments are due by November 4. With your partnership, we can make the next decade even more impactful for the children and families we serve.
KM shut out by Raiders, Hunter Huss here Friday
Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers -suffered their second straight loss to a Gaston County team last Friday when they took a 35-0 blowout from the South Point Red Raiders in Belmont.
They fell to Ashbrook the week before in Gastonia, 45-7.
The Mountaineers will face yet another Gaston foe, Hunter Huss, Friday night at John Gamble Stadium. They will host Greg Lloyd’s strong Crest team in their regular season finale the following Friday.
South Point’s balanced offense dominated from start to finish.
Kaveaun Pless led the Red Raiders with 176 yards rushing. Patrick Blee wasn’t far behind with 121 yards on 11 carries. They had two touchdowns each as the Raiders built a 28-0 lead. South Point’s final TD came in the fourth quarter on a 22 yard run by Jesse Ledford.
Lady Mountaineer volleyball sweeps Crest for Big South 6A championship
Kings Mountain High’s JV and varsity volleyball teams defeated Crest in their final Big South Conference contests last week to win their conference championships.
The JVs won 25-14, 25-20 and the varsity 2512, 25-19 and 25-20.
CCSO Deputies speak with students during CCS’s Career Day – Photo by the CCSO
Cleveland County middle school students connect with deputies during 2025 Career Day
On October 17, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) posted on its social media Meta page, “We had a fantastic time at the Cleveland County Schools (CCS) 2025 Career Day!” The post continued, “Connecting with middle school students and shar-
ing what it’s like to serve our community was both energizing and meaningful. Their questions, curiosity, and enthusiasm reminded us that the future is bright and full of potential.” The CCSO stated, “Thank you to CCS for hosting such a well-orga-
Avery Cruise and Elyn Phongsa led the JV offense and defense and Caroline Lane was outstanding on offense.
nized event and to every student who stopped by to learn more about what we do. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a deputy, a detention officer, a communications team member, or something entirely new, we’re cheering you on.”
Camden Pasour, Denet Houey, Abigail Hedgepath, Ava Tipton and Kenzlie Morris gave outstanding efforts for the varsity.
Houey had 16 kills, three blocks and two digs. Hedgepath dished out 13 assists to go with nine digs, a kill and 10 service points.
Tipton had 10 serve receptions, eight digs and six service points.
Pasour had 23 serve receptions, 23 assists, seven digs, two kills, two blocks and six service points.
Morris had six kills, four blocks and a dig.
Both teams finished 12-0 in the conference.
Overall, the JVs were 18-2 and the varsity 30-0 at the end of the regular season. The varsity was scheduled to host a first round game of the 6A state playoffs last night.
Teeing up support: Yetis Athletic Golf Tournament raises $45,000 for athletics
Cleveland Community College’s sixth annual Yetis Athletics Golf Tournament teed off Friday, October 10, at Deerbrook Golf Club, bringing together 32 teams and 128 golfers in support of Yetis Athletics. The event raised nearly $45,000 to fund athletic scholarships and enhance the College’s growing athletics programs.
This year’s winning team featured Matt Bryant, Jason Deans, Curtis Bailey, and Rod Howard. Additional recognitions went to Dan Jablonski and Robby Reynolds for Closest to the Pin, and Dalton Putnam for Longest Drive.
The tournament was made possible through the
generosity of sponsors and community partners, who provided monetary support and donations to a silent auction.
The Title Sponsor was Bank OZK, with Platinum Sponsors Berry Business Systems and Albemarle Corporation providing significant support.
“A huge thank you to all our amazing sponsors and to Tommy Gales and his staff at Deerbrook Golf Club for hosting such a fantastic tournament,” said Grayson Pierce, executive director of the Cleveland Community College Foundation. “Because of your support, we were able to raise important funds that will go directly
toward athletic scholarships. You’re making a real impact in the lives of our student-athletes, helping them grow on the field or court, in the classroom, and beyond. We couldn’t do it without you!”
Funds raised through the annual tournament directly benefit the Cleveland Community College Foundation, providing scholarship opportunities and resources that support the success of Yetis student-athletes both academically and athletically.
For more information about Yetis Athletics or how to support student-athletes at Cleveland Community College, visit cccyetis.com.
South Point defeated KM Mountaineers on Friday night with a blowout 35-0. (Photos by Zach Smith/Charlie Smith)
North Elementary School’s PE Teacher, Tyler McDaniel, is pictured with fourth grader Aiden Baker. Aiden ran in the 1/2 Mile Run for 4th grade at the CCS Fun Run on October 18. He placed 2nd for the males. Photo by Anna Hughes
The Yetis student-athletes were represented by the team of Mikalister Andersen, Jacob Adair, Miles Beard, and Juliana Ball. (Photo provided)
Gardner-Webb and Pinnacle Classical Academy
launch College Readiness Partnership
New Program through GWU’s Searight PACE Equips High School Students with Experiential Learning Experiences.
Representatives from Pinnacle Classical Academy in Shelby and Gardner-Webb University met recently to establish a Skills Training Partnership Agreement. Offered through GWU’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) Program, this five-week summer college readiness experience will strengthen Pinnacle high school students’ development of advanced analytical, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Interim GWU President Nate Evans welcomed Pinnacle representatives to Gardner-Webb for the formal signing ceremony.
“I’m excited to see the support here today,” Evans praised. “These partnerships are vital for Gardner-Webb. It plugs us into the community with the incoming students we serve.
To have these partnerships, to bring folks in to build those pathways early, ultimately that serves the region and the greater good.
We’re proud to do that, and I just want to offer a sincere thank you to everyone who was involved in making this happen.”
Speaking on behalf of Pinnacle was former N.C. state Sen. Wes Westmoreland, a GWU alumnus, who is vice chair and a founding member of Pinnacle’s Board of Directors. He thanked the University for collaborating to provide the academic opportunity to Pinnacle students and
recognized the efforts of Dr. Anthony Negbenebor, Gardner-Webb professor and assistant vice president for Business Development and Partnerships.
“Dr. Negbenebor has been a friend, a teacher and advisor for many, many years,” Westmoreland shared.
“Thank you for being the catalyst to bring this together. I graduated in ’88 and have served as a trustee here. I’m so very happy to have this relationship with Gardner-Webb. We really appreciate the partnership, and we look forward to where this is going.”
Joining Westmoreland from Pinnacle were Dr. Pauline Cahill, a local dentist and also a founding board member; Chief Education Officer Dr. Shelly L. Shope, a GWU alumna; Headmaster Angela Brooks; and Dean of Academics Jeff Ziegler. Pinnacle’s Board is chaired by former N.C. state Sen. Debbie Clary, who also helped found the public charter school in 2013.
Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters noted that career exploration begins with K–12 education, and the opportunities provided during the critical high school years greatly influence students’ educational journeys and future professional paths. “The Skills Training Partnership Agreement between Gardner-Webb University’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education Program and Pinnacle Classical Academy offers students the opportunity to engage in experiential learning, enhancing critical
CCC announces Honor Students for the 2025 Summer Term
Jose Hernandez
thinking and refining the academic skills necessary for college readiness,” she explained.
The partnership agreement initiates the Academic Skills Accelerated Program (ASAP) for Pinnacle students in 10th- through 12thgrade. Beginning in June 2026, Gardner-Webb will provide courses in AI, cybersecurity, project management, economics and personal finance,
medical terminology, introduction to agriculture, and American history of inventors.
Coupled with an emphasis on Christian business ethics and disciplinary concepts, the classes will offer students opportunities for reality-based and hands-on learning. They will be mentored by the Gardner-Webb faculty and participate in networking with corporate CEOs from
regional, national and international companies.
Business etiquette and professional skills will be emphasized. The program concludes with a fieldstudy tour of the BMW automotive plant in Greer, S.C.
Waters concluded, “We are honored to have the opportunity to support the high school students participating in this initiative. This partnership builds
on the current foundation of PCA’s academics, strengthening the primary commitment of meeting the needs of our community.”
The ASAP program is scheduled for June 9 through July 9, 2026. For more information, visit the Searight Pace website or email pace@gardner-webb.edu.
Cleveland Community College announced its summer term Honor Students in September for the President’s List and Dean’s List.
To be named to the President’s List, students must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and receive a perfect 4.0 Grade Point
Average. The following students were named to the President’s List (listed alphabetically).
President’s List:
Simone Anderson
Geocarlo Arce
Madison Austin
Heaven Baker
Cora Barbee
Jonathan Behrman
Brianna Bohandy
Ila Bridges
Hailey Bush
Lily Byas
Jaila Davidson
Raven Angela Dumlao
Stacey Duncan
Ariana Egan
Rachel Elliott
Madison Gardner
Catherine Grossnicklaus
Caleb Guiler
Sadler Gwynn
Haley Hamrick
Larry Hannah
Sarabeth Harmon
Brittany Harper
Sydney Hayes
Kristen Hearn
Lawson Higgins
Ava Jensen
Geonnce Jordan
Khalia King
Brea Kiser
Diannetae Lawrence
Kassidi Lee
Kadeyn Marshall
Antoinette McBride
Brandon McCall
Clarklynn McDaniel
Zachariah Morrow
Emma Mull
Matthew Pinion
Tyler Putnam
Dallas Seagle
Ava Sklavounakis
Anna Warlick
Benjamin Wilson
Justice Wright
Dean’s List:
To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and achieve a Grade Point Average of at least 3.5. The following students were named to the Dean’s List (listed alphabetically).
Brylee Greene
Rebecca Grier
Crissa Griffin
Stacy Hernandez Luna
Arjun Italia
Dominic Jones
Tiffany Lankford
Jennifer Mellon-Cook
Crystal Mowery
Kalei Perry
Taylor Roper
Brandon Walker
Pinnale-PACE partnership participants.
Gaston College sets enrollment record
Gaston College has recorded its highest enrollment numbers in history as the 2025 fall semester begins. As of Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2025, total curriculum enrollment, which includes students seeking a degree, diploma, or certificate, stands at 6,925, reflecting a rise of 669 students from the previous year. This marks the fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth at the college, with an impressive increase of 32% since fall 2021.
“Reaching this level of enrollment is an exciting moment for Gaston College. It shows that more and more people are recognizing the value of the programs, partnerships, and opportunities we offer,” said John Hauser, President of Gaston College. “We’re
building momentum that not only strengthens our college, but also the entire community we serve. This year’s growth is a big step forward, and it’s a testament to the work our faculty and staff are doing to reach, recruit, and retain more students every semester. We can’t wait to see the impact these students will have in the years ahead.”
In the 2024–25 academic year, Gaston College awarded 867 associate degrees, 179 diplomas, and 1,176 certificates. The current cohort includes students from various programs, including university transfer/general studies and several career and technical pathways, such as business, industrial trades, healthcare, and public safety. With enrollment con-
tinuing to grow, Gaston College is expanding opportunities for students and enhancing its role in
the region’s economic and workforce development. During the 2023–24 academic year, Gaston Col-
lege students received over $10 million in institutional, federal, state, and scholarship aid, benefiting 61% of its student population. This support highlights the college’s mission to make education attainable.
59th Annual Pancake Supper!
PRIOR TO THE SHELBY HIGH LIONS AND BESSEMER CITY YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL GAME
Friday, October 24, 2025 5:15 Until Game Time
Thank you to the Following List of Supporters of This Year’s Shelby Kiwanis Pancake Supper!
Honda Of Shelby
Kings Mountain Energy Center
Ag South Farm
Credit
Crazy Chinese Girl, LLC
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
Nephrology
Associates of the Carolinas
Waco Cattle Co.
Greenbrook Design
Allcare Insurance Services
Alston Bridges BBQ
Cleveland County Sheriff’s
Office
Cleveland Lumber Company
McNichol Insurance & Investments
AAA Self Storage
Bill Shuford Heating & Air
Conditioning
Boulevard Animal Hospital
Cleveland County Fair
Commercial Bank
Cummings Furniture
Edward Jones Investments
Fedyshyn Group
H & H Pest Control
Hoke Enterprises, Inc.
Holland and Hamrick
Architects, P.A.
Holly’s Flowers
Horn, Pack, Brown, Dow P.A.
J. Morgan Company
Jack Weller
Lattimore & Peeler Surveying
Turner Trucking, LLC
McIntyre Elder Law
Ora Supermarket
Personnel Services Unlimited
Shelby Eye Center
Shelby Shopper & Info
Spake Concrete Products, Inc.
Tracy Whisnant-Remax Select
Via Health Partners
Webb Chemical & Paper Co. Inc.
Yarbro Construction, LLC
Bankhead Surveying
Craig, Barry and Poston
John V. Schweppe, Jr., P.A. Scottree
American Restoration
Arnold’s Jewelry
Asphalt Paving of Shelby
Beam, Edwards & Brooks Construction
Berry Business Services
Business Consulting Group
Butch and Cathy Bowen
Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home
Clay Barnette Funeral Services
Cleveland Contractors, Inc.
Cleveland Urologic Surgery
Computer Connections, Inc.
Cornerstone Dental Associates
Cottonwood Veterinary Hospital
David White Investment Co.
Dr. Joseph R. Hendrick, Jr. DDS
Dr. Mike Alexander
Dr. Pat Hayes
Dr. Ron Maskarinec
Eddie Tillman
Flowers & Martin, P.A.
Folk’s Cleaners
Foothills Podiatry, P.A.
Fred Blackley, Landscape Architect
Heath and Associates
Hoyle Plumbing Company
James S. Wilson, D.D.S., P.A.
Gragg Financial
TerraBella The Awning Shop
Friends of Kelly Hastings
Future Energy of Shelby
Gregory D. Blalock, CPA
Jerry Blake
Jo’s Florist
Kelly Hastings
Ken-Wood Landscaping
Lackey & Lackey, Attorneys
Laughlin Furniture Outlet
Leasing Services Inc.
Lynn Lee
Maid New Cleaning Company
Norris Merchandise
Paradise Landscaping
Peak Resources Shelby
Pharr Technologies, LLC
Red Bridges BBQ Lodge, Inc.
Royster Oil
Scism & Son-Paint & Body Shop
Senator Ted Alexander
Shelby Alarm Company
Shelby Hearing and Balance
Smart Construction
Spake Landscaping
Stan Anthony
Stanley Crowder
Stitzel Construction
Taste-T Drive In Teddy, Meekins & Talbert, P.L.L.C.
The UPS Store
Turpish & Company, Inc.
Walker Carpet Care
Wesson Septic Tank Services, Inc.
Westmoreland Printers, Inc.
Winn Finanical Services
Poteat’s Front End & Brake Service
Twin Lakes Veterinary
The following organizations benefit from the Pancake Supper: Farm-City Breakfast, Children’s Homes Cleveland County, YMCA, Young Life, Priority One, Terrific Kids of North Shelby, American Legion Baseball, Kiwanis International Foundation, Kiwanis District Foundation, Cleveland County Educational Foundation Senior Scholarship, Boys & Girls Clubs, Junior Leadership Cleveland County and other community charities.
Gaston College enrolled nearly 7,000 students this Fall, a school record. Photo by Gaston College
Medicare Open Enrollment changes and updates
By Loretta Cozart
Seniors are now in Medicare Open Enrollment through December 7, so beneficiaries need to be aware of changes that could impact their coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
In a recent article published by AARP, award-winning health policy journalist Tony Pugh outlined seven key updates coming to Medicare in 2026. These changes range from lower prescription drug prices to new plan options and policy shifts that affect millions of enrollees.
Below is a concise summary of the most important updates from Pugh’s report. Check with your Medicare Advisor to determine how these changes can affect you.
Key Medicare Changes in 2026
• Lower Drug Prices
• Medicare will offer negotiated lower prices for 10 costly drugs (e.g., Januvia, Stelara, Eliquis), saving beneficiaries and Medicare billions.
• Easier Plan Selection
• The Medicare Plan Finder now includes more
Medicare’s 2026 negotiated prices for 10 high-cost prescription drugs. Data from AARP
provider network info, helping users verify if doctors are in-network. If data is wrong, enrollers can switch plans in early 2026.
• Part D Spending Limits Rise
Cleveland County Arts Council
Bob Ross-inspired oil painting workshop November 22
• Payment Plan Auto-Renewal
• Enrollees in the Prescription Payment Plan (monthly installments for drug costs) will be automatically reenrolled in 2026 unless they opt out or switch plans.
• The out-of-pocket cap for prescription drugs increases to $2,100. The deductible will also rise to $615, though some plans may offer lower or no deductibles.
• Prior Authorization Test in Original Medicare
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF CREDITORS
Having qualified as Executor over the Estate of Joan G. Grigg, 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 the undersigned on or before, January 23rd, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned Estate Executor.
This the 22nd day of October, 2025.
25 E 716
Paul Joel Grigg, Executor
C/o Brenton S. Begley
McIntyre Elder Law
233 E. Graham St.
Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/22, 29, 11/05 & 12/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA
CLEVELAND COUNTY
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24 E 244
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANNY RICHARD BRADSHAW
Having qualified on the 18th day of September, 2025, as Executrix of the Estate of DANNY RICHARD BRADSHAW, 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 January 13, 2026, 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 15th day of October, 2025.
Deborah A. Bradshaw
Of the Estate of Danny Richard Bradshaw
304 Oak Grove Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Attorney for the Estate: Robert H. Lutz
Lutz Law Firm, PLLC
310-8 East Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA
CLEVELAND COUNTY
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25 E 31
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES WILLIAM HENDERSON
Having qualified on the 14th day of August, 2025, as Executor of the Estate of JAMES WILLIAM HENDERSON, 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 January 13, 2026, 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 15th day of October, 2025.
Ronnie William Henderson
Of the Estate of James William Henderson
729 Crawley Gin Road
Shelby, NC 28150
Attorney for the Estate:
Robert H. Lutz
Lutz Law Firm, PLLC
310-8 East Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150
KMH(10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
• End of Supplemental Benefits Pilot
• The Value-Based Insurance Design Model, which offered extra benefits to low-income, chronically ill MA enrollees, ends due to high costs.
• Limits on Nonmedical MA Benefits
• Medicare Advantage plans tighten rules on nonmedical extras. Items like alcohol, cosmetic surgeries, and funeral costs will be excluded from coverage.
• A six-state pilot program will test requiring prior authorization for select services/devices to reduce fraud and overuse. It may expand nationally if successful.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR
Having qualified as Administrator over the Estate of Norma Bowser, 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 the undersigned on or before, January 23rd, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned Estate Administrator.
This the 22nd day of October, 2025.
File No. 25 E 612
Steve J. Morris, Administrator C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law 233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/22, 29, 11/05 & 12/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 26th of September, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of LARRY SADLER (25 E 704), 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, Rashawn Brooks, Executrix on or before the 9th of January, 2025 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 8th day of October, 2025
Rashawn Brooks, Executrix
Estate of Larry Sadler. 1318 Gidney St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/08,15, 22 & 29/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25 E 1766
Having qualified as Executrix of the ESTATE OF SARAH HORD QUEEN aka SARAH ANNE HORD QUEEN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said SARAH HORD QUEEN aka SARAH ANNE HORD QUEEN to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jerrianne Brittain Queen c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 22nd day of January, 2026 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 22nd day of October, 2025
Jerrianne Brittain Queen, Executrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins
Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC
405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/22, 10/29, 11/5 & 11/12/2025)
Get ready to unleash your inner artist as the Cleveland County Arts Council invites the community to “Step Into the World of Color and Creativity” on Friday, November 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in a special oil painting class led by certified Bob Ross instructor Pat Hitchcock. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or have never picked up a brush, this hands-on workshop offers a joyful, relaxing experience inspired by the legendary Bob Ross. Participants will follow step-by-step guidance using the wet-onwet oil painting technique made famous by Ross’s iconic television show The Joy of Painting. Under Hitchcock’s instruction, attendees will learn to bring happy little trees, majestic mountains, and serene landscapes to life. Even beginners will walk away with a completed painting to take home, a canvas full of possibilities.
All supplies are provided, and the class is open to ages 12 and up. The cost is $40 per person, and pre-registration with payment is required. Please note: cancellations must be made at least five days in advance to receive a refund.
Pat Hitchcock began painting at the age of 16 and started teaching art by 28. She holds certifications in Bob Ross Techniques for Landscapes, Floral, and Wildlife, and has taught both in the U.S. and internationally. Her teaching career includes time at St. Johns River Community College in St. Augustine, Florida, as well as the Bob Ross Workshop in New Smyrna Beach. She has also brought her creative instruction to places as far as New Zealand and Taipei City, Taiwan. Now based in Mill Spring, NC, Pat lives with her husband Frankie. The couple has two daughters and five grandchildren. This workshop is more than just a painting class— it’s an opportunity to relax, create, and be inspired in a warm, supportive environment.
Space is limited; don’t miss your chance to paint your own masterpiece in true Bob Ross style! To register, call 704-4842787.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF CREDITORS
Having qualified as Executrix over the Estate of Steven Odis Costner, 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 the undersigned on or before, January 9th, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned Estate Executrix.
This the 8th day of October, 2025.
25 E 692 Carolyn Smith Costner, Executrix C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law 233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/08,15, 22 & 29/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25 E 701
Having qualified as Administratrix of the ESTATE OF BRENDA WILLIS MCDONALD aka BRENDA W. MCDONALD, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said BRENDA WILLIS MCDONALD aka BRENDA W. MCDONALD to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Dawn M. Muller, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 8th day of January, 2026 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 8th day of October, 2025.
Dawn M. Muller, Administratrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/8, 10/15, 10/22 & 10/29/2025)
Bob Ross-style paintings will inspire your inner artist during this workshop. Sign up soon, slots fill quickly.
Photo by CCAC
FDA warns of potential health risks of RF microneedling
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is making consumers, patients, and health care providers aware that serious complications have been reported with certain uses of radiofrequency (RF) microneedling devices.
Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, a procedure that blends traditional microneedling with targeted radiofrequency energy, has surged in popularity as a non-surgical option for skin rejuvenation. The devices use tiny needles to penetrate the skin while delivering RF energy into deeper layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production to produce local heating. Clinicians employ the treatment to address fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, skin laxity, and uneven tone, making it a versatile tool in dermatology and aesthetic medicine.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administra-
tion, these devices are classified as medical devices and should only be used under the supervision of trained professionals. The treatment’s appeal lies in its promise of long-lasting, natural-looking results with minimal downtime. Patients often report improvements in skin texture and firmness that can last two to three years after a series of sessions. Its growing popularity is reflected in the wide range of branded devices—such as Morpheus8 and Genius RF—now available in clinics across the country. While the FDA has cautioned about potential risks, the procedure remains a sought-after option for those seeking for those seeking a middle ground between topical treatments and invasive surgery. With use of these devices for dermatologic or aesthetic procedures intended
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR
Having qualified on the 23rd of September 2025 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Lowell Morris Lahrmer (25 E 727), 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 John Lahrmer, Co-Administrator and Robert Lahrmer, Co-Administrator, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before January 16, 2026, 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 15th day of October, 2025.
John Lahrmer and Robert Lahrmer Co-Administrators of the Estate of Lowell Morris Lahrmer
c/o A. Susan Biggers
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
402 East Graham Street
Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
Having qualified on the 30th of September 2025 as Executor of the Estate of Betty Jean Cochran (16 E 876), 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 Lester Franklin Cochran, Jr., c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before January 16, 2026, 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 15th day of October, 2025.
Lester Franklin Cochran, Jr. Executor of the Estate of Betty Jean Cochran c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 22nd of September, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of BARBARA H. BRIDGES (25 E 720), 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 B. DeVane, Executor on or before the 2nd of January, 2026 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 1st day of October, 2025.
David B. DeVane, Executor Estate of Barbara H. Bridges 135 Montcliff Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (10/01, 08, 15 & 22/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 9th of July, 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of KRISTOPHER LEE APPLEGATE (25 E 87), 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, Cherie Terry, Administratrix on or before the 23rd of January, 2026 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 22nd day of October, 2025.
Cherie Terry, Administratrix Estate of Kristopher Lee Applegate 2764 Royster Rd Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/22, 29, 11/05 & 12/2025)
to improve the appearance of the skin (to treat wrinkles or to achieve skin effects, sometimes referred to as resurfacing, “tightening” or “rejuvenation”), the FDA is aware of reports of serious complications (adverse events) including burns, scarring, fat loss, disfigurement, and nerve damage, and the need for surgical repair or medical intervention to treat injuries.
Radiofrequency (RF) energy is a type of electrical energy that creates heat in tissues. RF microneedling devices use an array of small electrodes (tiny, sharp needle-like projections also known as microneedles) to deliver this energy. During treatment, these microneedles penetrate the skin and allow the RF energy to reach specific depths within and under the skin. Each microneedle produces a small area of intense heat at its tip, which leads to changes
in the tissue. While the FDA’s evaluation is ongoing, we are asking patients, caregivers, and health care providers to report any complications related to the use of these devices for dermatologic or aesthetic skin procedures to the FDA. Prompt reporting of adverse events can help the FDA identify and better understand the risks associated with medical devices.
Recommendations for Patients
• Be aware of reports of serious complications such as burns, scarring, fat loss, disfigurement, and nerve damage, with the use of RF microneedling devices for dermatologic and aesthetic skin procedures.
• Discuss the benefits and risks of all available dermatologic and aesthetic skin procedures with your health care provider.
• If you are considering a skin procedure using RF
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 7th of October, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of MARION CHRISTINA CHATMAN CROSS (25 E 722), 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, Elizabeth Paige Chatman Youmans, Executrix on or before the 16th of January, 2026 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 15th day of October, 2025.
Elizabeth Paige Chatham Youmans, Executrix
Estate of Marion Christina Chatman Cross 102 Rusty Barn Rd Columbia, SC 29212
KMH (10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX
Having qualified on the 25th of September 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Donald L. Cline (25 E 737), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to A. Susan Biggers, Administratrix, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before January 9, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.
This the 8th day of October, 2025.
A. Susan Biggers
Administratrix of the Estate of Donald L. Cline
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (10/08,15, 22 & 29/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
Having qualified on the 23rd of September 2025 as Executor of the Estate of Jack R. Hall AKA Jackie Ray Hall (25 E 660), 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 Danny Ray Hensley, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before January 2, 2026, 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 1st day of October, 2025.
Danny Ray Hensley
Executor of the Estate of Jack R. Hall AKA Jackie Ray Hall
c/o A. Susan Biggers
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
402 E. Graham Street, Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/01, 08, 15 & 22/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX
Having qualified on the 23rd of September 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Bobby Joe Winn (25 E 726), 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 Myra Grigg, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before January 2, 2026, 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 1st day of October, 2025.
Myra Grigg
Administratrix of the Estate of Bobby Joe Winn
c/o A. Susan Biggers
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
402 East Graham Street
Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (10/01, 08, 15 & 22/2025)
microneedling, seek care from a licensed health care provider with training and experience on the use of RF microneedling devices, and ask your provider which devices they plan to use.
• RF microneedling is a medical procedure, not a cosmetic treatment, and these devices should not be used at home.
• If you experience any problems or are concerned after a skin procedure using RF microneedling, seek care from a licensed health care provider.
• Report any problems or complications experienced from skin procedures with RF microneedling to the FDA. Your report, along with information from other sources, can provide information that helps improve patient safety.
The FDA is informing patients, caregivers, and health care providers about the potential risk of serious
complications with RF microneedling devices used for dermatologic or aesthetic skin proce-dures. The FDA is working with manufacturers of these devices to evaluate the issue and find appro-priate mitigation strategies.
The FDA will continue to monitor reports of adverse events and keep the public informed if significant new information becomes available.
If you think you had a problem with your device, the FDA encourages you to report the problem through the MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form at https:// www.accessdata.fda.gov/ scripts/medwatch/index. cfm?action=reporting.home
If you have questions, contact CDRH's Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE).
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 22nd of July, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of RAYMOND P. SISCO (24 E 33), 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, Najee’ R. Green, Executrix on or before the 23rd of January, 2026 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 22nd day of October, 2025.
Najee’ R. Green, Executrix
Estate of Raymond P. Sisco
402 Hudson St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (10/22, 29, 11/05 & 12/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 2nd of October, 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of JAMES DONALD HAYNES (25 E 756), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Michelle Goode Haynes, Administratrix on or before the 23rd of January, 2026 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 22nd day of October, 2025.
Michelle Goode Haynes, Administratrix Estate of James Donald Haynes 150 Kilmer Dr. Forest City, NC 28043
KMH (10/22, 29, 11/05 & 12/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 6th of October, 2025 as Administrator of the Estate of ANN FALLS DAVIS (25 E 759), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Kenneth Franklin Davis, Administrator on or before the 16th of January, 2026 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 15th day of October, 2025.
Kenneth Franklin Davis, Administrator Estate of Ann Falls Davis 822 McDaniel Rd Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (10/15, 22, 29 & 11/05/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 22nd of September, 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of ELBERT HILL, JR. (25 E 639), 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, Gwendolyn Hill, Administratrix on or before the 2nd of January, 2026 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 1st day of October, 2025.
Gwendolyn Hill, Administratrix Estate of Elbert Hill, Jr. 1526 Eaves Rd. Apt. F6 Shelby, NC 28152
KMH (10/01, 08, 15 & 22/2025)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
11TH TOY SHOW & COL-
LECTIBLES. Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 at Old Mooresboro School Gym, 308 Main Street, Mooresboro, NC 28114, 8:00AM-2:00PM. Admission
$5, Under 10 FREE. (GRAB
BAGS for KIDS UNDER 10)
$15 per table. Bring your own tables. CASH ONLY! For Questions Call Keith at 828351-8822 (6pm-8pm) or David at 704-692-7702.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENTS! Steel Buildings & Covers. Hay Barns, Boat Storage Sheds, Pavilions, Tractor & Implement Storage. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895
FALL BIG SPRINGS CHURCH HARVEST SALE. Saturday, November 1, breakfast 8am, auction 9am. Big Springs Church; 534 Big Springs Church Rd., Ellenboro NC 28040.
CASE KNIVES=LARGEST
VINTAGE COLLECTION IN THE AREA! Hard to Find Case Knives & Displays. We have John Deere Case Knives Too! Must Come and See! We Buy & Sell SILVER AND GOLD COINS, JEWELRY, Etc. Jake’s Knives & Collectibles (Hours: Mon- Fri 9am4pm; Sat. 9am-2pm) located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568
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
UNIQUE CHURCH IN SHELBY. The Chapel of Christ. Visit our website at www.chapelofchristshelby. com
UNIQUE ANTIQUE STATION. Tues.-Sat. 11am-4pm. New vendor: Toy Masters Collectibles, Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Jewelry, MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on Facebook. 828-382-0075. EMPLOYMENT
NOW HIRING LANDSCAPERS FOR FULL TIME YEAR ROUND EMPLOYMENT. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation. Over time available. (704) 473-0341
I NEED A DEPENDABLE AND HONEST PERSON to clean my house. (704) 4843128
COTTAGE PARENT NEED-
ED. Baptist Children’s Homes has an opening for individual to work as Cottage parent who is experienced working with or want to care for children/youth. It is a live in position for seven days on and then off seven days. Must be 25 and have a high school/ GED or higher degree. Cottage parents will be responsible for managing the home and all areas associated with parenting children. Responsibilities include being a positive role model, preparing meals, taking them to appointments and administer medications. If interested apply Baptist Children’s Homes jobs, Laura’s Homes. $32,000 per year (704) 471-1150 rscism@bchfamily.org
EMPLOYMENT
HANDYMAN WANTED: Handyman wanted to remodel rental units. Pay based on experience. Must have tools and dependable truck. 336-225-1050.
HIRING... PERSON 1ST LLC is hiring for Direct Support Professional/Community Living and Support in Cleveland (Casar, Lawndale, Polkville), Rutherford, Gaston, and Lincolnton County Areas.. If you are a positive person and enjoy making a difference in the lives of persons with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, come and join our team. As a one-on-one support staff, you will be providing services in the home and community to help persons served reach beyond their limits! Must have a valid NC Driver’s License, High School Diploma or GED and reliable transportation to and from work. Please contact Eddie Scruggs, Executive Director for further details. (704) 692-6974
EXPERIENCED CARPENTER OR CARPENTER’S HELPER needed part-time. Need your own transportation. Call 704-538-8741 or 828429-4794
FARMHOUSE FLORALS. At Farmhouse Florals, I offer a modern take on flower preservation in a variety of resin shapes and sizes, pressed and framed flowers, made into jewelry and much more. Your flowers are professionally dried to ensure I keep most of the shape, color and beauty they had from your special occasion. I also specialize in breast milk jewelry as well as cremation jewelry!! Find me on Facebook or call for information!! (704) 692-1507
BUSINESS SERVICES
SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Small jobs: underpens, outside fireplace, patios, retaining walls- brick, block and stone. 40 years experience. Call/text (863) 532-1587
HANDYMAN SERVICES. No job too small. Have references. Construction, landscaping, etc. Jack of all trades! 40 plus years of experience. 828375-5773.
ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you. Full Lawnmower Service, Cars & Tractors. Honest & Reliable. (704) 300-2332
HANDYMAN SERVICES. Specializing in small / minor home projects. Kings Mountain, Shelby, Gastonia Area. Minor plumbing repair, furniture assembly, paint touchups, minor sheetrock repair, light fixture repair, fence & gate repair, building / installing shelves, door replacement / repairs, screen repairs, picture hanging, clutter removal & pressure washing. Call or text for a free estimate. (910) 474-2374
JIM’S PAINTING SERVICE. Painting, tile floors, decks, all carpentry work, staining. Free estimates. Now is the time to paint outside! Needed Part Time Experienced Carpenter. Ask for Jim 828-429-7511.
QUALITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS! Now offering Dryer Vent Cleaning! Install Hot Water Tanks, Cleaning, Hauling, Mulching, Pine Needles, Pruning, Install Ceiling Fans & Mini Blinds and much more! No jobs are too small. Great Prices Call or Text today (704) 692-4449
BUSINESS
SERVICES
RETIRED RN will sit with your loved one. Prices and times negotiable. Call for more information 704-999-1339.
EARLS LAWN CARE. Mowing, trimming, edging, trimming bushes, landscaping upkeep, leaf removal. (704) 640-3842 earlslawncarenc@yahoo.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. 704-472-9367.
AUCTIONS
PUBLIC AUCTION Onsite and Online. Sat. Oct. 25, 2025 - 10 am. Preview: Fri. Oct. 24, 10 till 6 pm. Location: Thunder Contracting, 18001 Great Smokey Mtn. Exp., Waynesville, NC 28786. Partial Listing: Ford 550D Backhoe, 2002 F250 Super Duty Truck, Monster Truck, Constuction Tools, Fuel Tank, John Deere Parts Tractor, Culverts, Gas Air Compressors, Hand Tools, Cable, Sandblaster, MANY items to be sold by the Pallets. So much more! EDWARD JOHNSON AUCTIONEERS, INC. NC8134, NC8496 www.ej-auction. com (828) 593-9649
YARD SALES
CLEVELAND COUNTY
IT’S A FAMILY YARD SALE! Sat., Oct 25th, 2025 from 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Name brand clothes, antique items, dishes and holiday wreaths. Counter crushed ice maker, Harley Davidson coat and much more! At 408 Alan Drive, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
THE PERFECT YARD SALE. Sat., Oct 25th, 2025 from 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Household Items, Kitchen Items, Clothes, CDs, Tools & Much More! at 1615 Wesson Road Shelby, NC 28152
MULTI-FAMILY CRAFT/ YARD SALE. Saturday, 11/8/25, 8am-12pm. To reserve a space to sell, text Michelle 561-685-7748. 1223 Oak Grove Clover Hill Church Road, Casar, NC 28020
YARD SALES
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
LIQUIDATION SALE. Friday, October 31, Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2; 8AM-2PM. Cash Only. Follow Bless This Mess Collectible and Curiosity Shop on Facebook. 2161 Hudlow Road, Forest City, NC 28043 FOR SALE
FOUR CEMETERY PLOTS. Located at Cleveland Memorial Park in Shelby, NC. All four plots are next to sidewalk at the Bell Tower “Great Location”. $1200 each or all four $4000. call (704) 466-8295
APPLIANCES FOR SALE. Washer, Dryer, Stove, Refrigerator, and Freezer, $1400 or will sell separate. Delivery available. 864-279-4207.
TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, FLATBED TRAILERS, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867
PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704482-2243. (704) 538-5788
HORSE QUALITY HAY FOR SALE. Call (704) 487-6855
STEEL BUILDINGS, CARPORTS, GARAGES, WORKSHOPS. Car, Truck, Boat, Storage. Grading & Concrete “Turn Key Job”! Large On-site Displays. J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
J. JOHNSON SALES. Steel Buildings, Carports, Garages. Large On-site Display. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895
DUMP TRAILERS & EQUIPMENT TRAILERS. Aluminum Trailers. “Large Selection!”. Financing and Rent to Own Available. No Credit Check! J Johnson Sales, 2690 Hwy. 221 S., Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895
MINIATURE SEWING MACHINES, 40- $25 ea. For **ALL** Call 828-305-3123.
MEN’S BLACK NEW GENESIS CRUISER bicycle $50. 828-782-7221.
FOR SALE
FRIGIDAIRE 30” ELECTRIC RANGE. with smooth surface, 5 burners, all working. Self clean conventional oven. Great price $500. Email melindacorry60@gmail.com
7 TON EQUIPMENT TRAILER “LOADED”. $0 DOWN ! Approx. $200 Month *wac; 5 TON DUMP TRAILER “LOADED” $0 DOWN ! Approx. $240 Month *wac; 6’x10’ & 6’x12’ Utility Trailers $0 DOWN ! Approx. $90$100 Month *wac. J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895
CURRIER SPINET PIANO.
221 South, Forest City, NC 28043. (828) 245-5895
STORAGE BUILDINGS (WOOD•STEEL•VINYL). New Buildings from Approx. $100 month *wac (Includes Delivery & Set Up on Concrete Blocks). J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895
STORAGE BUILDINGS 8’X8’ up to 16’x40’. Built On Site IN ONE DAY! Financing OR Rent to Own Available. You Choose Your Colors and Placement of Your Doors & Windows. Delivery and Set Up is Included! J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 211 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895
VINTAGE PLACE! Open now through Christmas Thurs., Fri. & Sat’s. 9am-2pm. Located at 2740 Carla Dr., Shelby (Off Hwy. 226 N. near Polkville). Unusual, Rare & Old Items from the Past! Makes ideal Christmas & Birthday Gifts, Collectibles & Antiques. It’s worth your while! 3-TON CHAIN HOIST $195. 6,000 pound coffin hoist $195. Retails for around $600 each. Plate Tamp Compactor $150. Call/text 828-289-1817. BLACK LEATHER VEST FOR SALE. Hand made by no other than Dirty
PROACTIVE LIFT:
TRAILERS, NEW, USED, REPO. In stock Dumps, Enclosed, Concession Trailers and Equipment. Inventory changes weekly! Call or Come By! Financing or Rent to Own Available. J Johnson Sales, 2690 Hwy. 221 S., Forest City, NC 28043 (828) 245-5895
Home Improvement No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-877-649-1190 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Plus get 75% off installation and a bonus $250 discount! Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details. Miscellaneous WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home’s value! Call 24/7: 1-833-9281861. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! Miscellaneous Denied Social Security Disability? Appeal! If you’re 50+, filed SSD and denied, our attorneys can help! Win or Pay Nothing! Strong, recent work history needed. 877-5530252 [Steppacher Law Offices LLC Principal Office: 224 Adams Ave Scranton PA 18503] Miscellaneous We Buy Vintage Guitar’s! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6577 Miscellaneous Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-869-7055 today! Miscellaneous We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No
repairs.
FOR SALE
NEW REAR END for Chevrolet pick-up. 92 to 98 model. $650 or best offer. 828-4471254, if no answer, leave message.
MORGAN’S FIREWOOD. Cut, split, delivered, seasoned mix hardwood, ideal outdoor fire pit wood. $75., throw off price, $10 extra to stack. Cash only. Cut 16’’ to 18’’ length. 828-395-0758.
WANT TO BUY
WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828-289-1488.
WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 6921006
I PAY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Up to $10 per 100ct. Must be Unused, Unexpired. I’m local and pay fast. (828) 577-4197
WANTED. 30 to 40 pieces of used 5V metal roofing. Also, Old Stone Chimney to tear down. 704-538-8741 or 828429-4794.
WANTED 100 JUNK CARS AND trucks weekly. We pay top prices! **ALSO** Rental property for sale. 309 Flat Drive, Buffalo, SC. $79,000. 864-347-2080.
FARM & GARDEN
SQUARE BALES OF HAY.
Large quantities, different lots, some lots over 100 bales
$4,$5,$6,$7,$8. Also Round Bales $35. (704) 418-1744
PETS & LIVESTOCK
FREE CATS. I have FREE Female cats and 1 Male cat that have been fixed and shots upto-date. Call 704-562-0370.
PETS & LIVESTOCK
TOY POODLE PUPPIES. 1st shots & wormed. $350 cash. Call 704-466-5883.
10’X10’X6’ DOG KENNELS. Dog Houses and Dog Buildings. Delivery & Set Up Available. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895
CHIHUAHUA PUPPY. 14 weeks old. Ready for new home. Dewormed, 1st set of shots. $300. Chiweenie puppy $100. 704-466-6983.
OUTSTANDING RUSSIAN
MAINECOON KITTENS We have some outstanding kittens. Prices start at 2100$2500. TICA registered kitten and also a health guarantee. Female dbe and female odd eyed pet is more start at 3600 and up silver male. Text or call : (740) 979-9668 maddieranoo1998@gmail.com
TOY MALTI POO PUPPIES. Males & females. Dew claws removed & tails docked. Wormed & groomed with Puppy Chow Kit. $500 up to $800. 3 yr. old Malti Poo male, cream colored, sweet disposition, $600, can be used as stud or pet. 2 neutered male Manx cats. 1 black, 1 orange. $300 each. Call, NO texts. (828) 391-0919
CARS & TRUCKS
2014 FORD FUSION. 6 speed manual, 125,000 miles, clear coat peeling in some areas, but in good condition. Runs/drives great. $6500. 707-499-0594.
2013 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500HD. 2 DR, Automatic, Black, $7,500. Also, 2007 Z-4 BMW, Automatic, Blue. $6,500. Message 704-300-9223.
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 25 E 622
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
CARS & TRUCKS
2015 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500HD. Black, 6.0 Gas, 4x4, Automatic, 173,000 miles, asking $22,000, (704) 477-6894
2013 HONDA ODYSSEY HANDICAP VAN. 81,740 miles, electric side ramp, timing belt changed at 74,446 by Forest City Honda. Asking $28,000. Call 828-289-9260.
1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD V6, 149,000 MILES. Auto., power windows/locks, very good condition, good tires/ brakes, $3,995 firm! Excellent buy at this price! Call/text 828289-1817.
2017 FORD ESCAPE Grey, SE AWD. Immaculate, 1 Local Owner, Very Good Condition, Non-Smoker Car, Automatic, 86,600 Miles, Fully serviced W/ All records since new, Brand New Engine just installed with 5 Year Warranty. $11,999.00. Call (704) 9131033
2005 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. Silver Metallic, 6 Cylinder, Auto., 219,700 miles, $5000.00, Good condition and good tires, CD changer, cassette player. Original owner! (864) 490-6221
1989 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Convertible. AT, AC, PW, PL, CC, red/ black, red leather interior, 40,000 miles, very good cond. (843) 6095903
CAMPERS
28 FT. 1984 PACE ARROW
$10,000. Converted to a tiny home. Set up as a tiny home in a RV park. Must be moved by a flatbed. 828-453-0828.
MOTORCYCLES
& ATVS
MOTORCYCLE FOR SALE. 1999 Honda Magnum with saddlebags. 4 cylinder. $30,000 miles. $3,000 negotiable. 828-447-8141.
2005 HARLEY DAVIDSON. 21” Apes, Custom Indicators, Shotgun Exhaust Pipes, Remote Control Garage Door Opener, Chrome Switches, Braided Cables. 14,800 Miles. Original Owner. $5000 obo. (909) 900-5777
REAL ESTATE
CLEVELAND COUNTY FOR SALE BY OWNER In Kings Mountain. Nice 2 BR House, new roof, plus storage building, good neighborhood. $215,000. (704) 473-5240 RUTHERFORD COUNTY
LAND FOR SALE, CAMP GROUND on land. Price lowered $160,000 to $150,000. 828-453-0828. 3795-3925 Hollis Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040
REAL ESTATE
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
QUAINT HOME NEAR
DOWNTOWN RUTHERFORDTON. Beautiful, well maintained 5 bedroom, 2 bath home. Less than a block from Rutherford Regional Health Hospital. Hardwood floors, 3 car garage, large covered front porch on .47 acres. $330,000.00 Call Mike Gilliam at 828-606-5320 or Mark White at 828-693-3962 for more info. Mark White and Associates 233 White St., Hendersonville, NC 28739; NC RE License #54459. Rutherfordton, NC 28139
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
680 NC HWY 226 #70. Casar NC. Cabin. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms. Rent $1175 mo., Deposit $1175. Includes up to $125 Utilities! Application fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180
MOBILE HOME FOR RENT. 2 BR, 2 Full Baths-in Cherryville,. $900/mth.+$900 deposit. Call or text for more details. 828-390-9120.
1003-B MARK DRIVE, SHELBY, NC. Top Floor Apartment. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Rent $925 mo, Deposit $925. Application 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
Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of James (a/k/a Jimmy) Franklin Talbert, II, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of James Franklin Talbert, II, to present them to the undersigned by January 20, 2026, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
This the 22nd day of October, 2025.
Lavon Goddard Talbert
804 Sterling Drive
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Administrator of the Estate of James (a/k/a Jimmy) Franklin Talbert, II
John V. Schweppe, III
THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.
Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204
KMH (10/22, 10/29, 11/5 & 11/12/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 25 E 740
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Roy McArthur Lewis of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Roy McArthur Lewis to present them to the undersigned by January 20, 2026, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
This the 22nd day of October, 2025.
Sherry Lewis Thomas 116 Grassy Meadows Lane Shelby, NC 28152
Co-Administrator of the Estate of Roy McArthur Lewis
Tony McArthur Lewis 103 Neil Brown Road Shelby, NC 28150
Co-Administrator of the Estate of Roy McArthur Lewis
John V. Schweppe, III
THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.
Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204
KMH (10/22, 10/29, 11/5 & 11/12/2025)
FOR RENT
CLEVELAND COUNTY
NO HEAT BILLS HERE. 1 Bedroom Apartment. Excellent location (Shelby), small quiet complex. Recently renovated. Stove, refrigerator. NO PETS OR SMOKING. Fully furnished. Heat and water included in $695 month rent. (704) 487-5480
2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, (704) 739-0259
LAUREL HILL APARTMENTS LOCATED IN SHELBY NC. Is currently accepting applications for our 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes. Rent is based on income (and even some expenses are deducted). Call or visit today! 1526 Eaves Road, Shelby, NC or call for more information. Equal Housing Opportunity. (704) 487-1114
GASTON COUNTY
MOBILE HOME FOR RENT. 2 BR, 1 BA Mobile Home in Cherryville,
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25 E 762
Having qualified as Executor of the ESTATE OF BONNIE KAY WILLIAMS WALKER, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said BONNIE KAY WILLIAMS WALKER to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jacqueline Diane Walker Page, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 15th day of January, 2026 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 15th day of October, 2025
Jacqueline Diane Walker Page, Executor of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150. KMH (10/15, 10/22, 10/29 & 11/5/2025)
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
By JIM MILLER Editor
How to Get Help with Your Medicare Costs
Dear Savvy Senior, Does Medicare offer any financial assistance for struggling seniors? My mom lives primarily on her Social Security survivor benefit and is having a hard time paying her Medicare costs. Need Assistance
Dear Need, There are actually several different financial assistance programs that can help Medicare beneficiaries who are having a difficult time paying their out-of-pocket health care costs. Here’s what’s available, along with the eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Medicare Savings Programs
Let’s start with a program that helps pay premiums and out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Parts A and B. It’s called the “Medicare Savings Program,” and it has several different benefit levels for people based on their income and asset level. At its most generous the program will pay your Part A and B premiums and pretty much all your Medicare deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. At its least generous the program will pay just your Part B premium.
To qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, the minimum standard set by Medicare is an income under 135 percent of the federal poverty level, which at the moment works out to around $1,715 a month for individuals (or $2,320 for married couples). Everything counts towards income, including payouts from 401(k) plans, pensions, Social Security, and help from family members.
Medicare also allows states to impose an asset test, which can be as little as $9,430 per individual ($14,130 for married couples), not counting your house, car or personal belongs, but counting retirement savings and bank accounts.
But some states have made their Medicare Savings Programs a lot more generous, with much higher income limits and in some cases no asset tests at all. And the program may be called something else in your state. To find out if you qualify or to apply, contact your state Medicaid program. Visit Medicaid.gov or call all 800633-4227 for contact information.
Medication Assistance For help with Medicare (Part D) pre-
scription drug plan costs, there is another completely separate low-income subsidy program she may be eligible for called “Extra Help.” To get it, your mom will need to apply through her Social Security office.
Depending on your mother’s income level, this program will pay part or all of her Part D prescription drug plan’s monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription co-payments. In 2025, individuals with a yearly income below $23,475 ($31,725 for a married couple), and assets under $17,600 ($35,130 for a married couple) can qualify for Extra Help.
If she’s eligible to be in a Medicare Savings Program, she will automatically qualify for Extra Help. But because the requirements are slightly different, even if she doesn’t qualify for a Medicare Savings Program for Part B, she might be able to get Extra Help for Part D. For more information or to apply, visit SSA. gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help or call Social Security at 800-772-1213.
Other Programs
Depending on your mom’s income level,
needs and location there are many other financial assistance programs that can help like Medicaid, SSI (Supplemental Security Income), PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly), SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), (LIHEAP) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and many others.
To help you find out what types of assistance programs she may be eligible for, and learn how to apply for them, go to BenefitsCheckUp.org. This is a free, confidential website designed for people age 55 and older that contains more than 2,500 programs.
It’s also possible to get help in person at one of the 87 Benefits Enrollment Centers scattered across 38 states. Visit NCOA. org/article/meet-our-benefits-enrollment-centers locate a center in your area. Or call their helpline at 800-794-6559.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.