KM Herald 9-24-25

FINKELSTEIN 3

September Nights

Finkelstein 3 expected to draw a crowd September 25

By Loretta Cozart

In what was possibly the fastest September on record, or so it seemed, Thursday evenings were filled with music at Patriots Park. Last week’s performance featured Black Coffee Quartet, a four-piece jazz group that drew a crowd. The arrangements were complex, surprising those gathered with each song. Both the young and young at heart enjoyed a fantastic night of music at the gazebo.

This Thursday, September 25, at 6 p.m., we’re wrapping up Kings Mountain Special Events’ September Nights concert

series with the amazing Finkelstein 3! Fresh off their performance at the Cherry Bounce Festival, this talented trio is ready to blow you away with their unique sound. Influenced by legends like Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and David Grisman, they mix bluegrass with various other genres to create something truly special.

So, gather your friends, grab your favorite chair, and join us for one last magical evening under the stars at the Gazebo in Patriots Park! As summer transitions into fall, let’s celebrate this vibrant community gathering! See you there; let's make some beautiful memories!

Charges dropped against Padgett

By Loretta Cozart

On September 15, charges were officially dropped against Edward Ray Padgett, 37, who had been accused by his fiancée of assault with a deadly weapon, specifically related to an incident on August 31 in which she was shot in the thigh.

Padgett was arrested on September 1 and subsequently released on a $100,000 bond the following day after his initial

court appearance. Considering her concerns for her safety and that of her child, the fiancé sought a 50B domestic violence protective order. A hearing to consider extending this order was scheduled for September 15. During this hearing, the fiancée expressed her desire to have the charges dropped. When questioned by the judge about whether she had faced any coercion or threats, she affirmed that she had not.

Throughout the investigation, Padgett was placed on suspension from the Kings Mountain Police Department without pay.

Clev. Co. Fair starts Sept. 25

For over a century, the Cleveland County Agricultural Fair has been a cherished tradition in North Carolina. Since its start in 1924, the fair has brought families together to celebrate agriculture, community, and good old-fashioned fun. From livestock shows and local exhibits to thrilling rides and live entertainment, the fair continues to honor its roots while evolving with each generation. Now the largest county fair in North Carolina, it welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually—proof that its legacy is as strong

as ever. As we mark 101 years, the Cleveland County Fair remains a place where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and everyone feels right at home.

Cleveland County Fair Inc. is an agricultural organization assisting the development of agricultural education resources in the county and annually includes family fun and entertainment.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), and $5 for kids ages 6-12, plus tax. Ride ticket prices range from $3 (2 tickets) to $55 (55 tickets). Ad-

vance-purchase Armbands, good for any one day, including rides but not including entry admission to the fair, are available for presale for just $25 plus tax, if purchased online before September 25. Tuesday, September 30 is $15 Armband Day. Tickets are on sale at https://clevelandcountyfair.com/.

Schedule: • Thursday, September 25: Gate 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 3:00 p.m.

KMPD receives state accreditation

On September 9, during

the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting at City Hall, the Kings Mountain Police Department was formally presented with a Certificate of Accreditation by Bill Hollingsed, Chairman of the North Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Committee.

This distinguished recognition reflects the department's successful completion of 116 rigorous standards of professional excellence. The accreditation process involved months of disciplined work, including thorough policy review, extensive training, detailed documentation, and exceptional professionalism demonstrated by officers and staff across the department.

Special recognition was extended to Police Chief Gerald Childress, the Police Department Command Staff, Accreditation Manager Toni Mode, and the entire department for their dedication to the process. Jennifer Harris, who served as the department’s Accreditation Mentor, was

valuable support and guidance throughout the accreditation journey.

Accreditation brings numerous benefits to the City of Kings Mountain and its residents, including increased public confidence, reduced departmental risk and liability, improved officer development and retention, and an enhanced reputation as a forward-looking and

Importantly, this achievement is not a conclusion, but rather a commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining the highest standards of law enforcement.

Mayor Rob Wagman read a formal resolution during the meeting, recognizing the exceptional professionalism of the Kings Mountain Police Department and congratulating

them on becoming only the ninth law enforcement agency in the state of North Carolina to earn this prestigious accreditation status. The City of Kings Mountain commends the Police Department for its hard work and dedication in achieving this milestone and remains proud of the department's unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community with excellence.

KMPD receives state accreditation – Photo by City of Kings Mountain

■ OBITUARIES

Brenda Hullender Couch

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC

– It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Brenda Hullender Couch, aged 82, who departed this life on September 19, 2025, at White Oak Manor in Kings Mountain, NC.

Born on July 9, 1943, in Cleveland County, Brenda was the cherished daughter of the late John and Bertha King Hullender. She is now united in eternal rest with her only brother and all eight of her beloved sisters. Brenda was a radiant spirit whose joyful presence touched the lives of many.

An alumna of Central High School in Kings Mountain, she embraced her youth with passion, relishing in the art of dance and proudly serving as a member of the cheerleading squad.

Her profound faith found expression at Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church,

a community where she devoted herself to glorifying God with her lovely voice. A treasured member of the choir, Brenda delighted in sharing her gift through song, particularly with her favorite solo, “God on the Mountain.”

Professionally, Brenda contributed her talents to Rauch Industries in Gastonia, where she crafted Christmas ornaments, and later, she dedicated her skills to Mauney Hosiery in Kings Mountain until her well-earned retirement. In her leisure, Brenda found joy in exploring flea markets and embarking on shopping escapades. During her earlier years, she savored delightful vacations in the mountains with her family, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. As time went on, she embraced the peace of home, finding immense joy in the company of her loved ones. Brenda was not only a devoted wife and mother but also an exceptional grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love for two generations of treasured grandchildren. Her kind heart and gentle spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those lucky enough to have known her. As we celebrate Brenda Hullender Couch’s remarkable life, we find solace in the love she bestowed upon family

William Scott Kelly

(March 15, 1951January 31, 2025)

William Scott Kelly died in Charlotte, NC from complications of a stroke. He was the son of William Clavon Kelly and Betty Elizabeth “Jo” Kelly (nee Lynn). His maternal grandparents were Robert and Sally Lynn of Kings Mountain. His paternal grandparents were Nathanial and

Kyva Kelly. He was “stolen” away from Kings Mountain to attend college at UNCChapel Hill and later by his wife Catherine Munson. They lived in Fort Mill, SC. He primarily worked as a landlord and as a Heating and Air Conditioning installer/repairman. He loved music, food, and the TarHeels. When crippled by arthritis he took up praying for several hours each day as his occupation. You may have known him as:

• Your newspaper boy

• Your classmate

• Boy Scout

• First Baptist or Eastside Baptist attender

• Best friends of Jim Ware were Corky Fulton, Steve Sipes, and Kelly Chadwick, among others.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine Munson of Wilmington, NC; his sons William Paul Kelly of

Michael Steven Tessener, II

Steven Tessener, 53 passed away on September 14. 2025. He was born on October 7, 1971 in Cleveland County.

Steven is survived by a son, Nicolas Steven Tessener and his mother Nicole Harris. Steven was the son of Michael S. Tessener and Kathy W. Goforth. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Geraldine Tessener and Carl and Lela Ware; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A graveside memorial will be held at Mountain View Cemetery in Kings Mountain on September 28, 2025 at 3 p.m

and friends, a love that will endure beyond her earthly presence.

She is survived by her husband: Raymond Couch, of the home; children: Dana Smith and husband Gregory Smith Sr., Fort Mitchell, AL, Kim Moore and husband Jon, Kings Mountain, NC and Raymond Couch Jr. and wife Lori, Raleigh, NC; grandchildren: Jonathan Smith (Sam), Gregory Smith Jr. (Maddy), Heather York (Houston), Rayleigh Couch, Leah Couch, and Jon Michael Moore; great-grandchildren: Malloy Smith, Maisey Smith, Chloe and Saylor Smith (twins), Ella Smith, and Hadley York.

Funeral service was held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Reverend Roger Woodard officiating.

Visitation was on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home.

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

Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.

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

Help CCSO identify larceny suspect

Do you know this person? The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) requests the public’s help to identify the person of interest who may have been involved in a recent Larceny at the Dollar General located on 1036 Oak Grove Road in Kings Mountain. If you have any information about who this individual

Baltimore, MD and James Scott Kelly of Wilmington, NC; stepbrother Ed Robbs and his wife Rosina of Chaparral, NM; and his step sister Karen Yoder and her husband Gary Olnovich of Cornelius, NC. He is also survived by some of his cousins and their children.

A memorial service will be held at Charlotte Friends Meeting, 570 Rocky River Road West, Charlotte, NC on September 28 at 12:15. Meeting for Worship is the same day starting at 10 am and all are welcome to attend. Fellowship starts at about 11:15-11:30. Attendance by zoom is possible. The link for using zoom is available via the Meeting website: charlottefriendsmeeting.org.

Instead of flowers, consider donating to Charlotte Friends Meeting, The Arthritis Foundation, or listen to your favorite song.

The Serenity Club reopening soon

By Loretta Cozart

The Serenity Club announced that it will be opening its new location soon! This club will serve as a welcoming meeting place for anyone who is looking for support to overcome their drinking challenges. As spokesperson, Darrell Austin, Jr. puts it, “If you want to drink, that's your business. If you want to stop, that's ours.” The New Serenity Club

proudly serves individuals from at least three counties, thanks to state funding, particularly after the original facility was razed due to the Shelby bypass. With close to $800,000 invested in this new venue, the organization remains committed to providing quality support for our community. Located at 2110 Vestibule Church Road, Kings Mountain. The club ensures the anonymity of its members, fostering a safe

and supportive environment. Since its inception in the early 1980s, many have found success in achieving and maintaining sobriety with us. As they believe, “Alcohol destroys families. We put them back together. We can’t wait to welcome you through our doors and support you on your journey!"

Stay tuned for more information as the group finalizes its opening date.

Rotary Spaghetti Supper Oct. 24

By Loretta Cozart

On Sunday, October 5 (10:00 a.m.), Eastside Baptist Church in Kings Mountain will celebrate its 74th anniversary which will also be Homecoming Sunday. Dr. Mike Minnix will bring the Homecoming message.

Rev. Ron Caulder, Eastside’s pastor, extends an invitation to all former members and friends of Eastside to join them in

their Anniversary/Homecoming celebration.

After the service, everyone is invited to remain for a covered-dish dinner in the church’s fellowship building. Pastor Caulder said, “Come and be our guests”!

Eastside Baptist is located at 308 York Road Kings Mountain.

Club will hold its famous 'Rotary Spaghetti Supper" on Friday, October 24, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., between Kings Mountain and Hunter Huss. Individual plates are $15.00. Donations are also being accepted and will in-

the following tickets:

$50.00 donations - 4

$70.00 donations - 6

$90.00 donations - 8

• $135.00 donations12 tickets

Event sponsor levels include: • $1,000 banner at the event with 100 tickets

• $500.00 banner at the event with 45 tickets

• $250.00 banner at the

event with 20 tickets

This event raises funds for the Rotary scholarships given to KMHS seniors, the Rotary backpack weekend food program, Thanksgiving lunch for the seniors, and other community projects funded by the club. The club has also supported other projects in the community, such as the KM Touchdown Club, Hospice, and Boy Scouts, among others.

Alyssa Glenn-Campbell

The Serenity Club, locaed at 2110 Vestibule Church Road, Kings Mountain, NC (Photo by Greg Ledford)

Kings Mountain Forward offers $10 discount tickets to Liberty Mountain

Kings Mountain Little Theatre, Liberty Mountain, Founding Sponsor Gilbert and Jancy Patrick, and Presenting Sponsor Albemarle are proud to announce that Kings Mountain Forward is sponsoring 150 coupons for a $10 discount redeemable at the box office during performances beginning Saturday, September 20, through Sunday, October 12. The coupons are available at the Joy Theatre (weekdays between noon and 2 PM) at 133 West, The Skillet, and The Imperial Mercantile. There is a 4-coupon limit per person/visit. Kings Mountain Little Theatre and Liberty Mountain are grateful to KM Forward and all our sponsors for their support.

Liberty Mountain: The Revolutionary Drama, by Playwright Robert Inman, depicts the dramatic events leading to the October 7, 1780, Battle of Kings Mountain. The performance tells a vibrant, compelling story about a piece of local history with gigantic national implications. It brings to life

the story of these Carolina Backcountry patriots, who, with their victory, helped secure our nation's liberty. The indoor drama features full theater action, music, epic battles, & special effects. Performances each weekend beginning September 19 and ending October 12.

The Battle of Kings Mountain turned the tide of the American Revolution after a series of British atrocities took place in the southern Colonies. Through a little theatrical magic, the crucial event that took place on Kings Mountain becomes more real than any lecture, textbook, or lesson plan could accomplish. Liberty Mountain features cutting-edge theater elements like projections, pyrotechnics, and live-firing historic weaponry. It is an immersive experience, with historical reenactors greeting you at the door and action happening in the aisles and all around. Real, powerful history, compelling writing, and vibrant, innovative storytelling make Liberty Mountain a must-see event for everyone.

Our revolutionary history is unique to Kings Mountain, Cleveland County, and the Carolinas. Please help celebrate and preserve it for future generations by supporting the telling of our history. Tickets are available online at https:// www.libertymountaindrama. com and https://www.kmlt. org, or at the Joy Theater box office between noon and 2:00 p.m. most weekdays, or by calling (704) 730-9408.

Members of the 2025 Liberty Mountain Committee include: Founders Shirley Brutko, Jim Champion, Rick Dancy, Jerry Ledford, Gilbert and Jancy Patrick, Treasurer Mary Grace Keller, Committee Members: Bobby Childers, John Harris, Rick Hendrick, Sandra Jenkins, Kirsten Martin, Shearra Miller, Warren Moss, Angela Padgett, Margot Plonk, Jada Rees, MaryWade Smith, Wes Westmoreland, and Lloyd Williams, Jr., Playwright, Robert (Bob) Inman, Artistic Director, Jeremy Trent Homesley, and Music Director, Ashley DeMar.

Free child seat check-up events

The Kings Mountain Police Department (KMPD) reminds county residents that "Child Passenger Safety Week" will take place from September 21 through September 27. During this period, there will be free child car seat checks available in our area.

On Thursday, September 25, you can visit Shelby City Fire Station #1 at 560 East Grover Street in Shelby between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for a free child seat safety check. For more information, please email jessica.crawford@advocatehealth.org.

Another opportunity for a free car seat check-up will be offered on Saturday, October 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Ross Grover Baptist Church, located at 1225 Fallston Road in Shelby.

The KMPD extends its gratitude to Safe Kids Cleveland County and Cleveland County EMS for hosting these events.

Child Passenger Safety Week is a national awareness campaign held every September to promote the proper use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts for children. The purpose of the event is to educate parents and caregivers about selecting and correctly installing the right car seat for a child’s age, weight, and height. The correct car seat can significantly reduce injuries and fatalities from motor vehicle crashes, which remain a leading cause of death for children.

Using the proper car seat at every stage is crucial: from rear-facing infant seats to forward-facing seats, booster seats, and eventually seat belts. Correct installation is critical, as nearly half of car seats are misused, which can compro-

mise safety.

In 2022, 599 children aged 12 and under were killed in motor vehicle crashes nationwide, and over 106,000 were injured. Of the children killed, 35% were not buckled up at the time of the crash. In 2023, an average of three children under age 14 died every day in traffic crashes, with 442 injured daily.

In North Carolina, the statistics are even more sobering. Around 50 children under age 12 die annually in car crashes statewide, and 40% of those deaths involve children who were unrestrained—not properly buckled up. More than half of children aged 8–14 killed in crashes were not properly restrained. Nine out of ten car seats are used incorrectly across North Carolina.

Car seats reduce fatal injury by 71% for infants under one year old and 54% for toddlers aged 1–4 in passenger cars. Despite their effectiveness, 46% of car seats are misused, often due to incorrect installation or using the wrong type for the child’s size. Among infants who survived fatal crashes in 2023, 95% were properly restrained. Children ages 8 to 12 had the highest number of fatalities in passen-

to premature transition to adult seat belts. These numbers underscore why campaigns like Child Passenger Safety Week are so vital.

Cleveland County, which includes Kings Mountain, participates in North Carolina’s Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Diversion Program. This program allows caregivers cited for improper car seat use to have their ticket dismissed by attending an educational session and proving proper installation. Permanent Car Seat Checking Stations are available nearby through BuckleUpNC, where certified technicians help ensure seats are correctly installed.

There are several helpful tools and online resources for parents and guardians of small children. The NHTSA’s Car Seat Finder helps match the right seat to your child. You can find it at the NHTSA website. The SaferCar app alerts users to recalls for registered car seats. And the S.E.A.T. Safety Steps (Select, Ensure, Adjust, Technical Help) simplify car seat safety for families.

Scene from Liberty Mountain: The Revolutionary Drama Photo provided by the Liberty Mountain Drama website.

KM Herald and Shelby Shopper credited

Cleveland County Crime Stoppers wins state award

The Cleveland County Crimestoppers received the “Best Promotional Idea Award” at the North Carolina Crime Stoppers Association (NCCSA) annual training conference on September 17.

On its social media

Meta page, Cleveland County Crimestoppers posted, “Shout out to one of our main sponsors, Shelby Shopper & Info.

Due to their partnership with Crime Stoppers, we earned the “Best Promotional Idea Award” at the yearly training conference.

The post continued, “The support shown by Greg Ledford (Shelby Shopper & Info and the Kings Mountain Herald publisher) is exceptional. We will proudly display this award in our office!”

Be sure to check the weekly Shopper for Crime Stoppers stats, including the volunteer hours for each quarter.

Freedom to Speak, Freedom to Employ

The first amendment protects our free speech but employers will protect their bottom line. However, to some extent, there are some limitations and barriers for all of us. When he began his career, national radio personality Howard Stern couldn’t keep a job. His content was so raw and shocking that station owners and managers couldn’t afford to keep him on because advertisers couldn’t afford to risk supporting him. Things changed. He eventually became acceptable to enough listeners that he was hugely profitable. A massive contract with Sirius XM radio gave him a huge audience, allowed him to say whatever he wanted and paid him handsomely. Since 2004, they have paid him hundreds of millions of dollars. His employer found him to be profitable and accepted by many.

Stearns’ contract recently expired and his deal hasn’t been renewed. The renewal won’t be based on Stearns’ freedom of speech but it will be based on whether he will be profitable for Sirius XM radio which means he probably won’t be returning.

Jimmy Kimmel is off

the air, for now. He has been making a nice $15M a year salary from the Disney corporation who owns ABC and the ESPN network as well. He has had a nice job with them for 20 years and come out five nights a week saying whatever he wanted to say. After some recent comments made about Charlie Kirk that have been replayed numerous times on national TV, Disney decided to take his show down for a while, possibly forever. Stations across the country let it be known to Disney they weren’t going to air Kimmel’s show after his remarks about Kirk and Disney listened. It was about money. Disney is in the business to make money, big money. The Stephen Colbert show was losing $40M a year and Colbert’s show had better ratings than Kimmel. The idea of losing millions of dollars on Kimmel was unacceptable to Disney. If TV station chains, cable companies and local stations around the country had applauded Kimmel, if ratings and profitability had soared, Disney would have kept Kimmel on. No employer is going to keep you on the payroll if your mouth is bankrupting the business. You may have the

right to speak but you may be speaking on the street corner somewhere without a paycheck if the employer doesn’t like what you are saying.

The minister of your local church may have the freedom to preach the Bible. Yet, he or she could find themselves unemployed if they ruffle enough feathers of the congregation’s leadership. A politician may speak freely but only has a job if he or she can sway enough voters. You can walk into wherever you work and say whatever you want about the company or your boss. Most likely, you’ll end up in the unemployment line. Plus, you will not be able to obtain a reference or recommendation for your next interview.

Yes, we have freedom of speech but it has limitations and consequences. Charlie Kirk was his own employer. That seems to be about the only way you can really pull off free speech. He said just about whatever he wanted and there wasn’t anyone to fire him, so someone killed him. Sadly, Charlie Kirk’s free speech cost him his life.

There is almost always a price to be paid for freedom of speech. It is important and it is American, but your employer doesn’t have to agree with you or keep you on the payroll.

KMLT announces exciting 2025–2026 season

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Little Theatre (KMLT) announced its 2025–2026 season lineup, featuring five outstanding productions that promise to entertain, inspire, and delight audiences of all ages. With a mix of history, comedy, mystery, classic literature, and Broadway spectacle, this season truly has something for everyone.

This season’s performances include:

Liberty Mountain: The Revolutionary Drama, by Bob Inman | directed by Jeremy Homesley and Ashley DeMar, September 19–October 12, 2025. The season opens with the return of Liberty Mountain, the acclaimed drama that tells the story of the Battle of Kings Mountain, a turning point in the American Revolution. This immersive production combines compelling writing, pyrotechnics, live-firing historic weaponry, and professional-level staging to make history come alive.

Tickets are available at: www.libertymountaindrama. com

• Dashing Through the Snow, by Jones Hope Wooten | directed by David Baez, November 7–16, 2025. Kick off the holiday season with a hilarious southern-fried Christmas comedy. At the Snowflake Inn in Tinsel, Texas, a parade of eccentric guests — feuding aunts, quirky actors, and last-minute wedding guests — create yuletide

mayhem guaranteed to have audiences laughing out loud.

• Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express

- Adapted by Ken Ludwig | Directed by Wendy Walega, February 20–March 1, 2026. The world’s most famous train becomes the setting for intrigue and suspense in this stage adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic novel. Detective Hercule Poirot must unravel a shocking murder before the killer strikes again.

• Alice in Wonderland, based on the Classic by Lewis Carroll | Directed by Bridget Allen, April 17–26, 2026.

Step through the rabbit hole with Alice into a whimsical world of talking animals, peculiar characters, and unforgettable adventures. This family-friendly production brings Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale to life on stage.

• 1776 – The Musical , Music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards | book by Peter Stone, directed by Jeremy Homesley and Ashley DeMar, June 19–28, 2026. The season closes with the Tony Award–winning musical 1776. This rousing production follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson as they work to persuade the Second Continental Congress to declare independence. With wit, music, and humanity, 1776 shines a light on the people behind America’s founding document. Season memberships available now

KMLT encourages the-

Applicants sought for city advisory boards and commissions

Kings Mountain citizens are invited to apply to serve on any of the city's advisory boards or commissions.

Positions on two highlighted boards include the Board of Adjustment and the Planning and Zoning Board. The

The Board of Adjustment is a terminal decision board that interprets the zoning ordinance, issues orders granting or denying variations from the zoning ordinance, and issues orders granting or denying conditional use permit requests. They act in a quasi-judicial manner, and their decisions are subject to judicial review. There is currently a vacant seat on this board. Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month in the City Council Chambers at 4:00 p.m.

The Planning and Zoning Board is an advisory committee that takes part in the development of the city’s comprehensive plan, preparation of special studies, updating of land use plans, development of policies relating to land uses, drafting ordinances, reviewing zoning ordinances, and zoning text amendments. It also reviews and advises the City Council on

the matter of major subdivision plats. Members serve a three-year term. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm. If you are interested in contributing to your community through serving in these important roles or if you are interested in applying for any other board seats, please scan the posted QR code or visit the https://CityofKM.com website to submit your application. Applications that are not immediately appointed will be retained for one year for future consideration. For more information, call the City of Kings Mountain at (704) 734-0333. The City Council Chambers are located in the City Hall at 101 West Gold Street in Kings Mountain.

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Jeff Yates, Chairman of Crimestoppers Cleveland County and Greg Ledford (right) celebrate the annual Crime Stoppers Award. Photo by the Cleveland County Crimestoppers

Cleveland County students lose previous public library access

On September 10, the Mauney Memorial Library posted the following message on its social media Meta (Facebook) page:

“Due to circumstances beyond our control, all books checked out using a Cleveland County Student ID (lunch number) must be returned by October 1st, 2025, and all Student ID library accounts will be deactivated on October 22.. Students interested in checking out Mauney Library materials can have a library card issued to them with a parent or legal guardian present.”

The announcement follows a county-wide policy change that was triggered by the recent passage of North Carolina House Bill 959 (signed into law on July 1, 2025). That law requires local boards of education across the state to ensure students only access age-appropriate materials. Since the school system cannot control what students check out from the public library

system, they are ending the automatic student ID accounts at the Mauney Memorial Library and other outlets.

Previously, students had been able to borrow up to 10 items and access databases, Mauney Library Director Christina Martin confirmed. Martin directed further questions to the Cleveland County School System. Students were also able to access audiobooks, online resources that included test prep, homework help, and more. Now, county students must obtain a library card

to continue accessing the library’s resources.

The Mauney Memorial Library Meta post generated comments from individuals expressing concern over limiting access to library content for local students and citing frustration at the inconvenience of forcing students to obtain library cards to use its resources.

The Mauney Memorial Library is located at 100 South Piedmont Avenue in Kings Mountain. For more information, call (704) 7392371.

Last week remains for KM Hometown Farmers’ Market

By Loretta Cozart

Enjoy all things local at KM Hometown Farmers’ Market on Saturday, September 27, the last day of the market for this season. Kids receive a free $2 POP token to shop at the market for fresh fruits & veggies, and it helps to teach them how these foods play a key role in their health.

SNAP/EBT is always accepted, plus shoppers get an extra $10 in Market Moolah when they swipe their card each week.

Senior Nutrition Farmers’ Market Vouchers accepted through September.

Don’t miss the last day of the mark

NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION CLEVELAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in pursuant to NC GS 163-33 that a Municipal Election will be held on November 4, 2025, to vote on the following contests:

Water Board Commissioner; Belwood Commissioner; Boiling Springs Mayor; Boiling Springs Council Member; Casar Mayor; Casar Commissioner; Earl Mayor; Earl Council Member; Fallston Mayor; Fallston Council Member; Grover Commissioner; Kings Mountain Ward #2, Ward #3, AtLarge Council Member; Kingstown Mayor; Kingstown Council Member; Lattimore Mayor; Lattimore Alderman; Lawndale Mayor; Lawndale Commissioner; Mooresboro Council Member; Patterson Springs Commissioner; Polkville Commissioner; Shelby Ward #1, Ward #4, Ward #5 Council Member; Waco Alderman; Town of Lawndale Mixed Beverage Election

Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote. All voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. Voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id.

The polls will be open for voting on Election Day from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. Residents of Cleveland County registered to vote within one of these jurisdictions are eligible to vote. Voters who are already registered to vote need not re-register. Residents who are not registered to vote or those registered who need to make changes must do so by Friday, October 10, 2025, 5:00pm.

Early voting will begin Thursday, October 16, 2025, and will continue through Saturday, November 1, 2025. There is ONE early voting location for this election. Schedule is as follows:

Board of Elections Office · 215 Patton Dr., Shelby, NC 28150

Thursday-Friday October 16-17, 2025 8:00am-5:00pm

Monday-Friday October 20-24, 2025 8:00am-5:00pm

Monday-Friday October 27-31, 2025 8:00am-5:00pm Saturday November 1, 2025 8:00am-5:00pm

Voters who are not registered in the county by October 10, 2025, may still register and vote during the early voting period. Persons who register during early voting will be required to provide proof of residency.

Any qualified voter may vote an absentee ballot by mail. Absentee ballots will be available starting Friday, October 3, 2025. The deadline for applying for an absentee ballot by mail is 5:00pm on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Completed ballots should be returned to the office on or before Tuesday, November 4, 2025, by 7:30pm.

The Board of Elections will hold meetings each of the following dates for the purpose of approving absentee ballots if necessary: October 14 (5:00pm), October 21 (5:00pm), October 28 (5:00pm) and November 3 (5:00pm). Absentee ballots will be counted on Election Day at the Board of Elections office.. Unofficial election results will be released no earlier than 7:30pm on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Official election results will be certified at the Canvass Meeting.

The Sample hand-to-eye count will be held at the Board of Elections Office on Thursday, November 6, 2025 (9:00am).

The Canvass meeting will be held at the Board of Elections Office on Friday, November 14, 2025 (11:00am)

Please call the Cleveland County Board of Elections with any questions concerning voter registration, absentee ballots, location of polling places, voter id, and other election matters at (704) 484-4858 or by visiting our website at www.clevelandcounty.com.

J. Ronnie Whetstine, Chairman Cleveland County Board of Elections

KM Women’s Club BBQ plate Fall Fundraiser

Kings Mountain Woman’s Club will hold a BBQ Plate and Fall Fundraiser on Wednesday, September 24. Pickup will be from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Kings Mountain’s Woman’s Club, 108 E. Mountain Street. Plate includes: pork bar-b-que, slaw, baked beans, chips, 2 buns and 2 homemade cookies. All proceeds are to finance the projects and community activities of the KMWC. Tickets are on sale for $12 now from any club member or email kingsmountainwc@gmail.com.

FAIR

The Mauney Memorial Library announces new access restrictions for students – Photo by Mauney Memorial Library

Be sure to drop by and partake of Fall’s bounty. Photos by KM Farmers’ Market

breads and garden-fresh pesto for your next gathering.

The Solid Foundation - Jesus Christ

(1 Cor.3:11)

I was watching a television commercial by Ramjet, it’s a foundation restoration service and the commentator said, “when you see a crack in your interior wall, it means there is a problem in the foundation due to some type of erosion or shifting.” To replace the wall with a different material will not solve the issue, it’s just a cosmetic cover up that will end up in the same condition eventually. When we look at our lives and the condition of the church today,

have we shifted from Christ as our foundation to whatever is popular? Are we waiting for the next book on how to have a successful Christian life or the next curriculum on how to grow your church? Paul had laid the groundwork as a master builder from God and the people had accepted this; yet, they still had the mentality of the world. Paul tells them that the foundation which has been laid, no one can lay a greater foundation than Jesus Christ (verse11)

and he warns them (as representatives of Christ) to take heed of how they build because every man’s work will be tried by fire to see what it is made out of (verse 13 ); will it be a reward or rejection. We must ask ourselves what are we building? Is it from the love of God and man, are our tools love, joy, peace etc. (Gal.5:22-23), is faith our plumb line, is prayer our cornerstone, is the Bible our blue print, is obedience our walls, is hope our roof, is the Holy Spirit our contractor, and as we build can we honestly say what we are building is actually covered by the blood of Jesus?

I’m reminded of the story

of the three little pigs and the wolf as we look at church today. Some of us are building with straw and when storms come because of no relationship with God, we crumble, and there are those who are hypocrites and build out of particle board because it appears strong, but in challenging times it caves. Then there are the true believers who worship and praise God, those who strive to live holy. When they face storms, they are still standing because they are anchored in the Lord, and have built on the true foundation, Jesus Christ. How solid is your walk with Christ or does your life need some new construction? Be Blessed!

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

Bethlehem Baptist Church

Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member

230 Oak Grove Rd.

704-750-0171

Anew Beginning Baptist Church 145 Battleground Dr.

704-473-1372

Ardent Life

Church

420 Branch Street

704-739-7700

Arise Church

830 E. King St.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road

704-739-7487

Boyce Memorial ARP Church

Edgemont Drive

704-739-4917

1017 Bethlehem Baptist • Kings Mountain

Calvary Way

Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

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

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

Cherokee St.

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

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

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

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

Concord United Methodist Church 2404 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Bessemer City, NC

704-629-3571

Connections Church

306 N. Piedmont Ave. 704-750-4972

Cornerstone Church Of God

202 Margrace Road 704-689-4430

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Crowders Mountain Baptist

125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310

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

Dixon Presbyterian Church 602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com

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

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

Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055

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

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

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

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

Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road

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

Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888

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

Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714

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

Life of Worship Ministries

405 S. Cherokee St. 704-777-2927

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

Lighthouse Ministries 1908 Shelby Rd. Kings Mountain

Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406

Love Valley Baptist Church 2032 Bethlehem Road 704-730-0075

Macedonia Baptist Church 1101 S. Battleground Avenue 704-739-6811

Dr. John L. Houze People’s Baptist Church

SASi celebrates the Southern Railway Depot’s centennial

By Loretta Cozart

According to the September 6, Cleveland Star article, “New Depot

Opened at Kings Mountain: The new Southern railroad depot is finished and will be opened for business Tuesday morning (Sep. 8, 1925).

“It is an attractive and commodious brick veneer building with interior finish in dark oak. It contains six or eight rooms. It is well equipped with all modern conveniences.” The article went on to share that the facility had segregated waiting rooms and a ladies' restroom.

This site is on the Kings Mountain Downtown Historical Walking Tour, created by Mauney Memorial Library, which can be accessed by phone for those taking the tour, at Kings Mountain Downtown Historical Walking Tour, at https://theclio.com/ tour/2144.

Further details share that the depot is the “Current home of the Southern Arts Society, the depot was built in 1925 in the Arts and Crafts style and served as a passenger and freight depot until the mid-1960s. Restored in the late 1970s, during the J. H. Moss ad-

ministration, it served as Kings Mountain's first Senior Center. When plans for a new Senior Center were approved in 2000, the city began leasing the building to the Southern Arts Society in 2002.”

Southern Arts Society, SASi, is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the historic Southern Railway Depot, which is its home. Artists from around the region were invited to create art that speaks to the history and power of moving by rail. Over forty works of art have been entered to compete for prizes totaling $1,500. Judging the work will be Ashley Lathe, Instructor of Art at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC. The exhibition runs September 10th through November 1, 2025.

Southern Arts Society (SASi) Gift Shop & Gallery is located at 301 N. Piedmont Ave. at the intersection of Piedmont and Battleground Avenues in the historic Southern Railway Depot. SASi offers a gift shop, ongoing art exhibitions and competitions, programs and classes in a variety of media for artists of all levels.

Gallery Hours: Wed

through Sat, 10 am to 3 pm, and by Appointment. Admission is Free. For more information, go to http://

southernartssociety.org/ or call 704.739.5585. Email southernartssociety@gmail. com.

Carolina Pottery Festival celebrates 25 Years

By Loretta Cozart

The Carolina Pottery Festival returns on November 1, for its 25th year, bringing together nearly 100 regional potters and drawing over 1,000 pottery lovers to one of the Southeast’s largest pottery-only events. The Cleveland County Arts Council coordinates the pottery festival.

“We are thrilled to be back this year with many returning potters as well as potters who are new to our festival,” commented Shearra Miller, Executive Director of the Arts Council.

Visitors will find a wide variety of functional, decorative, and sculptural works—from traditional to

contemporary styles—all available for purchase directly from the artists. This year’s event is at the LeGrand Center, at 1800 E. Marion Street, in Shelby.

Started by potters, for potters, the festival remains rooted in celebrating the region’s rich pottery heritage.

“This is a great way to see so many styles under one roof and meet the artists behind the work,” said co-founder Bobbi Black.

The festival welcomes both returning favorites and new artists.

A new feature, Early Bird Admission is available this year. Be among the first to shop! Early Bird ticket holders get in at 8 a.m. (1 hour early), enjoy coffee with the potters, and the first 50 guests receive a free 25th Anniversary Tote Bag.

• Admission is:

• Early Bird Ticket: $10

• General Admission: $8 (under 12 free)

• Tickets available online or at the door

• Good to know before you go:

• Free, convenient parking

• Perfect for holiday shopping

• Artist demos and Q&A throughout the day

Potters are Wanted! A few vendor spots remain— interested potters can email Shearra Miller at shearra@ ccartscouncil.org for details.

The 2025 Participating

Kings Mountain High School Class of 1971 met for a Reunion Luncheon on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Italian Gardens & Pizzeria in Kings Mountain. There were 29 classmates in attendance. Front Row, Seated L-R: Susan Fite Lovelace, Sandy Whetstine Russ, Jo Turner Tesseneer, Gail Robinson, Mary Parker Logan, Kathy Heavner Dixon, Connie Phifer Savell, and Lynn Lovelace Brown; Second row L-R: Mickey Moss, Linda Ledford Moss, Pamela Kirkendall Waldrop, Renee Goins Sanford, Donna Alexander Martin, Susan Champion Denton, Pam Wright Ford, Geraldine Roberts Logan, Debra Rhea Walker and Phyllis Hamrick. Third row L-R: David Putnam, Calvin Crawford, Arthur Carroll, Wilson Ledford, Daniel Greene, Ronnie Anderson, Kay Patterson White, Brenda Wilson Ross, Jonas “Randy” Bell, Dwight Dixon, Mitchell McKinney.

Stop Here by Darlene Godfrey.

Tracks of Time by Anne Harkness,

Connecting America by Kathleen Marie.

L + C by Kathleen Marie.

Continental Divide brings free concert to POPS September 26

Submitted by Jean Gordon & Michael Howard

... featuring Forest City’s Chris Cole,

former KMHS Band Director

On Friday, September 26, Forest City and the POPS Pavilion Concert Series welcomes home one of its own: home grown and highly accomplished musician Christopher “Chris” Cole, who will perform with the highly acclaimed band Continental Divide. Chris and Continental Divide have long anticipated this special opportunity to perform in Chris’s hometown for friends, family, and a Rutherford County audience which has waited patiently for this opportunity to see Chris perform with Continental Divide and hear this band’s unique sound.

Chris grew up in Forest City and graduated from East Rutherford High School where for many years he was a pillar member of East’s outstanding marching bands, playing trumpet and other brass instruments. He attended Western Carolina University where he earned a B.S. and Masters in music. For the next 42 years he taught high school band at Kings Mountain High School and Piedmont Charter School. His marching bands, and various other music groups he taught, performed to local, national and international audiences earning many prestigious awards. Chris and his wife Sarah reside in Kings Mountain.

In 2011 Chris was inducted into the North Carolina Band Masters Hall of Fame joining his grandfather, Dee C. Cole, who was inducted into the Band Masters Hall of Fame ahead of him in 2003.

The Cole family is well known in Forest City and Rutherford County for their musical talent and musical contributions to the community over many previous decades. Chris’s grandfather, Dee C. Cole, who began his music contributions to the county in the 1910s, is honored, and his legacy remembered, with a special memorial gazebo on the grounds of the former Cool Springs school on Main Street, Forest City (now Rutherford County Schools Adminstrative Offices). The plaque refers to Mr. Cole as Rutherford County’s “Music Man” and the “Father of School Bands.”

Over the course of five decades, Dee C. Cole was responsible for establishing school bands in seven Rutherford County in communities. He also directed several bands and orchestras surrounding areas and taught thousands of students the art of music. His efforts to garner support for Rutherford County school band programs is unprecedented. In addition to the North Carolina Hall of Fame, Dee C. Cole was inducted into the Rutherford County Schools Hall of Fame in 2013.

perform

The City of Kings Mountain updated its loose-leaf collection disposal schedule and posted a color-coded map for residents. The collection process is expected to be completed by the end of the month, weather permitting.

Loose leaves and grass clippings should not be bagged, but they should be placed behind the curb for collection. Having divided the city into 10 routes, the city will operate a single operator vacuum truck, running a single route each day. The routes are as follows:

• Route 1 - Crescent Hill, Meadowbrook Road, West Mountain Street, and West Gold Street areas

• Route 2 - Southwood area, Fulton Drive, Hall Crossing (High School Area)

• Route 3 – North Piedmont Avenue, West to North Cansler Street • Route 4 - Watterson Street through Waco Road and Country Club Road • Route 5 - Shelby Road, Country Creek, Crocker Ridge, Beason Creek

• Route 6 - Stowe Acres to First Street, Second Street, and Grace StreetChurch Street

ther with his own musical passion and success. His grandfather was a great teacher, inspiration and the finest example for Chris and thousands of others who were touched by Dee C. Cole’s influence. It’s obvious that Mr. Cole’s musical talent and upstanding character DNA were passed on to his grandson, Chris Cole.

Chris has played with Continental Divide since its inception in the early 70s. And Continental Divide has performed for crowds around the Southeast equally long. The band has maintained a reputation of quality, professionalism, and above all, top-notch music and entertainment. They continue to deliver a fun and energetic show full of the enduring music of Motown, classic oldies, and beach music.

Frontman singer Gene Pharr, a 2016 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame inductee, leads with his silky-smooth voice supported with the tightness of the rhythm section and flowing melodies of the horn line.

Continental Divide will provide a performance people will long remember and demand to hear again.

Continental Divide will play from 7 pm to 10 pm on Friday evening, September 26. Admission is free and mobile food trucks will be available to satisfy your hunger and thirst. The concert promises to be a special event to help welcome in the long-awaited cooler weather and fall colors. This concert would not be possible without the generous support of local sponsors and the Forest City Event Coordinators. Continental Divide wishes to thank the following:

North State Gas, Walter & Lucille Dalton, Esq.,Rutherford County Symphony, Tree of Life Cultural Foundation, Odom Engineering, Pleasant Grove Methodist Church, T.P. Howard’s Plumbing Co. , T&K Utilities, Inc., Cultivated Cocktails Distillery, Rutherford Weekly, WAGY 107.5 FM and WNCW 88.7 FM. The Forest City Pavilion on Park Square (POPS) Amphitheatre is located at 153

CHRIS COLE

Chris Cole will

in his hometown of Forest City.

Chris Cole will perform with the highly acclaimed band Continental Divide on Friday, September 26.

(Photos provided)

KM Mountaineers shutout Forestview

49-0 in Big South Conference opener

Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers scored early and often to defeat the Forestview Jaguars 49-0 in their opening Big South Conference game Friday in Gastonia.

The Mountaineers, 4-1 overall, will take this week off and return to BSC action October 3 at John Gamble Stadium against the North Gaston Wildcats.

After the KM defense held the Jaguars to threeand-out on the game’s opening possession, it took the offense just three plays to light up the scoreboard on a 48-yard touchdown pass from quarterback KJ Bell to William Vaughn.

Just 34 seconds later Vaughn returned an interception for a TD and a 14-0. Moments later, Chris-

tian Jarrett recovered a bad snap and Camren Houser took a screen pass 20 yards for a 21-0 lead

The Mountaineer defense held the Jaguars again and forced a punt. During the return the Mountaineers were penalized and had to start at the Forestview 49. A 29-yard reception by Branch set up a 20-yard TD reception by Vaughn and a 28-0 halftime lead.

Kings Mountain took the second half kickoff and with a good mixture of running by Khareem Coleman and catches by Xavier Hutchens and Vaughn hiked the score to 35-0.

Coleman scored again early in the fourth period to run the margin to 42-0 and the Mountaineers tacked on a 50-yard TD with 1:14 remaining for the final score.

KMHS volleyball sweeps Hunter Huss and Crest

Kings Mountain High’s women’s volleyball team swept Hunter Huss and Crest last week. Against Huss, the KM JVs won 25-6, 25-6 before the varsity rolled 25-1, 25-3 and 25-7.

Elyn Phongsa had 17 service points and three kills; Avery Cruise 10 service points and a kill; and Mady Camp five kills for the JVs.

The varsity got 17 kills from Denet Houey, six serve receptions 35 assists, a kill and 16 service points from Camden Pasour, 11 kills and four service points from Campbell Benton and seven kills from Kenzlie Morris.

The JVs won 25-20, 25-21 and the varsity 25-21, 25-19 and 25-18 against Crest.

Avery Cruise and Elyn Phongsa stood out on both of-

fense and defense against the Crest JVs. Skylar Garner also had a big game on offense and Masey McDaniel stood out on defense.

For the varsity, Camden Pasour had 26 serve receptions, eight digs, eight kills, 12 service points and 15 assists.

Ava Tipton had six serve receptions, 14 digs and 13 service points.

Abigail Hedgepath had 10 digs, two kills, three service points and 17 assists. Denet Houey and Kenzlie Morris were strong along the nets with 13 and 10 kills, respectively.

The JVs were 11-2 and the varsity 18-1 overall and both were 6-0 in the conference heading into last night’s action at home against Forestview.

KM Elite Splits four games against the competitive West Carolina Ducks Program

In Week Four BSYFL action, the Kings Mountain Elite Trailblazers youth football program captured two wins out of four games against one of the league’s most competitive programs, the West Carolina Ducks of Hickory (feeder program for Hickory High).

The Trailblazers return home this Saturday, September 27, at Kings Mountain High School’s John Gamble Stadium to face the Cramerton Panthers. The 6U game will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Mighty Mites, Junior Varsity, and Varsity contests.

6U Tiny Mites Division

K.M. Elite 46, West Carolina Ducks 0

• Offense : #2 Kyan Brice – 2 rushes, 113 yards, 2 TDs; #10 Braxson Parker

– 4 rushes, 97 yards, 2 TDs, 1 two-point conversion; #4 Amir Simons – 5 rushes, 73 yards, 1 TD, 2 two-point conversions; #0 Sahmir Patterson

– 3 rushes, 50 yards, 1 TD, 2 two-point conversions.

• Defense : Brice – 6 tackles (4 TFL); Patterson

– 4 tackles; Parker – 1 TFL; Kaleb Myrick – 2 TFL; Kyree

Shannon – 4 TFL; Amir Simons – 3 tackles; Kanaan Walls – 3 tackles; Kingston Street – 2 tackles (1 TFL); Zion Wright – 1 TFL; Chance Somerville – 1 tackle.

• Playmakers of the Week: #2 Kyan Brice & #10 Braxson Parker.

K.M. Elite 6U Record: 3-0 (1st Place,6U BSYFL Standings).

8U Mighty Mites Division West Carolina Ducks 24, K.M. Elite 14

Offense: #2 Khoen Brice – 14 rushes, 146 yards, 2 TDs, 1/4 passing for 12 yards; #13 Gavin Smith – 3 rushes, 27 yards; #5 Cali Boyce – 3 rushes, 2 yards, 1 two-point conversion; #8 Ryan Smith –1 carry, 13 yards.

Defense: Kendrick Halvorson – 3 tackles (1 TFL); Malakhi Degree – 3 tackles (1 TFL); James Street – 2 tackles; Timothy Tate – 2 tackles; Gavin Smith – 2 tackles (1 TFL); Clovis Postell – 1 tackle, 1 fumble recovery; Boyce – 1 TFL; Trayquan Mintz – 1 tackle; Kaleb Walls – 1 tackle; Brice – 1 tackle; Ryan Smith – 1 tackle; Mahkai Hayes – 1 tackle. See KM ELITE, Page2B

The Kings Mountain JV football team scored its first Big South victory of the year over the Jaguars of Forestview Thursday at John Gamble Stadium 37-0.

The Mountaineers marched 61 yards on their opening drive, capped off by a 7-yard touchdown run by Elijah Long. Marquis Thomas added the extra point for a quick 7-0 lead.

The KM kick-off team pinned the Jags deep in their own territory, and KM’s Javen Wilson was able to tackle the Forestview runner for a safety for a 9-0 lead.

KM added two more touchdowns before the half as Long took an Amir Parker pass 15 yards and Long added his third touchdown of the night from four yards out. Thomas kicked the extra point for a 23-0 halftime lead.

KM scored on its first two possessions of the second half as Myles Parks scored from two yards out,

and Jarrett Linder’s 8-yard run made the score 37-0.

The Kings Mountain defense held the visitors to

the

and

Jags to one first down,

had seven sacks and 10 tackles for losses to stifle Forestview’s offense.

1-0 in the Big South Conference. KM is on the road on October 2 to battle the Bun-

Scenes from the KM Mountaineer vs. Foresview Jaguars Big South Conference game on Friday night in Gastonia. KM defeated Forestview 49-0.

(Photos by Charlie Smith)

KM JV football team scored their first victory over the Forestview Jaguars on Thursday night. (Photos by Charlie Smith)

Toward Christ

By Gary Miller

Place, 8U BSYFL Standings). 10U Junior Varsity Division West Carolina Ducks 14, K.M. Elite 0 • Offense: #5 Cole Smith – 3 rushes, 25 yards, 1 reception (-3); #3 M.J. Thompson – 5 rushes, 15 yards; # • Defense: Khamoni Marable – 4 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery; M.J. Thompson – 4 tackles (2 TFL), 1 forced fumble; Joseph Bell III – 3 tackles (2 TFL); Jace Faw – 3 tackles (1 TFL); Kam Fortenberry – 3 tackles (1 TFL); Bentley McCaskill – 3 tackles, 1 PBU; Kyler Holmes – 3 tackles; C. Smith – 3 tackles; Brantley Parker – 3 tackles; Antonio Shannon – 2 tackles. Playmaker of the

One of the best places to put up a tree stand or blind is in a funnel. A funnel is a small area where two or more ridges run out or down into a small hollow or trail. If you can imagine the dip between two crests, you will understand what a funnel is. It is basically the easiest route for deer, or any other animal, to travel. And like you and I, most animals look for what takes the least effort and expends the least amount of energy. Not only does this apply to travel routes, but it also applies to food. Just watch any bear or raccoon and you will see how they will opt for a free and easy meal even if it is found in your garage or trash can. And, as you also know as well, it is these easy meals that cause many of these critters, to be caught or killed. While we admire some of the special characteristics of many of the animal kingdom, in some ways they are just like us. They had rather get whatever they can with the least amount of cost. For followers of Christ, this is also a temptation. While I am the first to proclaim the freedom that grace affords, in full disclosure, being a follower of Christ will at times call you to take the more difficult path. And at times it will cost a price others may not have to pay. You may have to give up the hate you so want to hold on to, to love the one who is unlovable. You may have to give up the revenge you want to exact, to give the forgiveness God wants you to give. You may have to give up criticism to show the kindness that comes from the Spirit. Sometimes, you will have to give up your opinion to keep your influence. All of these are not done so someone can applaud your goodness, but for the hope that someone will embrace your savior. And we all should ask the question, “What am I willing to give up so that more people would choose Jesus?” This sounds simple. Some will say, “I am willing to die for my faith!” But that is the easy part. The real question is “What am I willing to live with if more would choose Jesus?” Would you live in communism if more people would choose Jesus? Would you live without the freedom to assemble? Or without free speech? Would you give up your right to own a gun? Or to hunt? You see, the decision to live for our faith is sometimes more sacrificial than the decision to die for it. And it may be a better reflection of the priority my faith holds in my life. The faith funnels are easy and predictable. But they are not the path we may always be able to take.

Miller gary@outdoortruths.org

Week: #8 Khamoni Marable.

K.M. Elite 10U Record: 1-3 (11th place, 10U BSYFL Standings)

12U Varsity Division

K.M. Elite 20, West Carolina Ducks 8 • Offense : #0 Jaiveon Gash – 9 rushes, 157 yards, 2 TDs, 1 two-point conversion; #7 Chris Carthen – 4 rushes, 17 yards, 2 receptions, 32 yards, 1 TD; #8 Khyier Marable – 2/3 passing, 32 yards, 1 TD, 1 rush, 2 yards; #2 Jalen Littlejohn – 3 rushes, 9 yards. • Defense : Gash – 9 tackles (2 TFL); G’Hailyn Smith – 5 tackles (1 TFL); Carthen – 4 tackles (3 TFL); Littlejohn – 4 tackles, 1 PBU; Ka’Darius Smith – 3 tackles (2 TFL); Zayden Mintz – 2 tackles; Mason Barnes – 1 tackle; Marable – 1 tackle; Junior Smith – 1 tackle. Playmakers of the Week: #0 Jaiveon Gash & #7 Chris Carthen.

K.M. Elite 12U Record: 4-0 (1st Place, 12U BSYFL Standings).

GARY MILLER

KM JV football team gets ready to play Forestview Jaguars last Thursday night. (Photos by Charlie Smith)

Fans, Bands & Stands

Mountaineer vs. Foresview Jaguars Game (Photos by Charlie Smith)

Governor Stein and Congressman Moore seek more Helene recovery funds

Last week, Governor Josh Stein and former NC House Speaker Tim Moore (now a U.S. Congressman) were both part of a bipartisan congressional delegation meeting in Washington, D.C. The session was led by Congressman Chuck Edwards and focused on securing additional federal funding for Hurricane Helene recovery in Western North Carolina.

According to the official release, Stein, Moore, and several other members of North Carolina’s congres-

sional delegation (including Virginia Foxx, Richard Hudson, Alma Adams, Greg Murphy, Deborah Ross, Don Davis, Valerie Foushee, Addison McDowell, and Pat Harrigan) joined the discussion.

Earlier on September 15, N.C. Governor Josh Stein formally requested $13.5 billion in new federal funding for Hurricane Helene recovery in western NC.

Stein was joined by N.C. Senator Kevin Corbin and Asheville Mayor Es-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

DEBTORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND

Having qualified on 17th of September, 2025 as Administrator of the Estate of MELINDA DELLINGER TALLENT (25 E 277), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Charles Franklin Tallent, Administrator on or before the 26th of December, 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 24th day of September, 2025.

Charles Franklin Tallent, Administrator Estate of Melinda Dellinger Tallent 143 Elam Street Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 &15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified as Administratrix over the Estate of Rebecca Kay Henderson 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, December 5th, 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 Administratrix.

This the 3rd day of September, 2025.

File No. 25 E 587

Teresa Henderson, Administratrix

C/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/03,10, 17 & 24/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor over the Estate of Martha Curry Thrift; aka, Martha Jane Curry Thrift; 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, December 26th, 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 Executor.

This the 24th day of September, 2025.

25 E 590

Curtiss Eugene Thrift, Executor

C/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 & 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

25 E 544

Having qualified as Executrix of the ESTATE OF SHERWOOD VANOY BROWN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said SHERWOOD VANOY BROWN to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Elizabeth Ann Brown aka Elizabeth S. Brown, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 3rd day of December, 2025 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 3rd day of September, 2025

Elizabeth Ann Brown aka Elizabeth S. Brown, Executrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC

405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/3, 9/10, 9/17 & 9/24/2025)

ther Manheimer and both urged Congress to approve the request.

The funds would include $8 billion from HUD for Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) to rebuild homes and small businesses, $2 billion from FEMA in Special Community Disaster Loans to support local government services (police, fire, sanitation, etc.), and $2 billion from the U.S. Department of Transportation to restore roads and critical infrastructure, including I 40.

The Governor also noted that the total federal need is $23 billion, including previously appropriated but not yet allocated funds.

As WCNC Charlotte

recently reported, North Carolina has received just a fraction of the money lead-

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified as Administrator over the Estate of John Wayne Martin, 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, December 26th, 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 Administrator.

This the 24th day of September, 2025.

File No. 25 E 641

David Leonard Lawson, Administrator C/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08, 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 20th of August, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of GARY BRYON GRAGG, SR. (25 E 638), 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, Jason Daniel Grigg, Executor on or before the 26th of December, 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 24th day of September, 2025.

Jason Daniel Gragg, Executor Estate of Gary Bryon Gragg, Sr. 348 Hunting Ridge Lane Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 & 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor over the Estate of Patricia M. Pasini, 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, December 26th, 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 Executor.

This the 24th day of September, 2025.

25 E 240

Robert Francis Cotter, Executor C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 & 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

OF CREDITORS

NOTICE

Having qualified as Executor over the Estate of Frances Danielle McSwain; aka, Frances F. McSwain, 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, December 5th, 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 Executor.

This the 3rd day of September, 2025.

13 E 417

Walter Hartsel McSwain, Jr., Executor

C/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/03,10, 17 & 24/2025)

ers previously requested from the federal government. According to state records, only about $4.7 billion of the $18.9 billion request has been approved or disbursed to date. That is far less than what is needed, given the estimated $60 billion in damages the storm left behind.

The Governor stressed that nearly a year after Helene, western North Carolina has received only a fraction of what is needed, and that “the time to act is now.”

Congressman Moore emphasized the need for support, posting on his Meta (Facebook) page, “As we approach one year since Hurricane Helene, I remain committed to making sure

every impacted community gets the resources they need to fully recover.”

"The people of western North Carolina are not asking for a handout," Gov. Stein said on September 15. "They're asking for a hand up to get back on their feet. Recovery is a team sport. The state has been putting in money and effort, and one year after this terrible tragedy, it is time for our federal government to meet the needs of the people of western North Carolina." If approved, the additional $13.5 billion would help with rebuilding homes, aiding small businesses, repairing roads and bridges, and reimbursing local governments for work already completed.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified as Administrator over the Estate of Patsy Ann Wease, 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, December 19th, 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 Administrator.

This the 17th day of September, 2025.

File No. 25 E 649

Ricky White, Administrator

C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/17, 24, 10/01 & 08/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 5TH of September 2025 as Executor of the Estate of William Leo Putnam (25 E 689), 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 Stephen Joseph Putnam, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before December 18, 2025, 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 17th day of September, 2025.

Stephen Joseph Putnam

Executor of the Estate of William Leo Putnam

c/o A. Susan Biggers

Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/17, 24,10/01 & 08/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ANCILLARY ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on the 3rd of September, 2025 as Ancillary Administratrix of the Estate of Chuck Mitchell Holt (25 E 582), 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 Lou Ann Wright, Ancillary Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before December 12, 2025, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

Lou Ann Wright

Ancillary Administratrix of the Estate of Chuck Mitchell Holt

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

Governor Josh Stein meets with Congressman Tim Moore about Helene Recovery Funds.

Photo by Congressman Tim Moore

FDA expands dangerous cookware warning

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning retailers and consumers not to sell or use certain imported cookware that may leach significant levels of lead (Pb) into food. Some types of imported cookware products made from aluminum, brass, and aluminum alloys known as Hindalium/ Hindolium or Indalium/Indolium have been tested by the FDA and state partners,

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th of September, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of JAMES ROBERT CRAWLEY (25 E 586), 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, Angel Nicole Flanagan; aka, Angel Buroughs, Executrix on or before the 26th of December, 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 24th day of September, 2025.

Angel Nicole Flanagan; aka, Angel Buroughs, Executrix

Estate of James Robert Crawley 2378 Ferry Rd Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 & 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 17th of Sept., 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of JAMES E. STEPP, JR.; AKA, JIMMY STEPP (25 E 714), 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, Angela Stepp Greene, Executrix on or before the 26th of December, 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 24th day of September, 2025.

Angela Stepp Greene, Executrix

Estate of James E. Stepp, Jr.; aka, Jimmy Stepp 250 Peachtree Rd. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 & 15/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ANCILLARY ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 3rd of September, 2025 as Ancillary Administratrix of the Estate of LEWIS K. HOLT (25 E 633), 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, Julie S.F. Holt, Ancillary Administratrix on or before the 12th of December, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

Julie S.F. Holt, Ancillary Administratrix Estate of Lewis K. Holt 1019 Robbs School Rd Gaffney, SC 29341

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on the 29th of August 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Pamela McSwain Thorp (25 E 648), 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 December 12, 2025, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of Pamela McSwain Thorp Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 27th of August, 2025 as Administrator of the Estate of BARBARA BLANTON DELLINGER (25 E 655), 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 Larry Dellinger, Administrator on or before the 5th of December, 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 3rd day of September, 2025.

David Larry Dellinger, Administrator Estate of Barbara Blanton Dellinger 229 N Church St #205 Charlotte, NC 28202

KMH (9/03,10,17 & 24/2025)

and found to leach lead into food when used for cooking, thereby making food unsafe. Young children, women of child-bearing age, and those who are breastfeeding may be at higher risk for potential ad-

verse events after eating food cooked using these products.

On September 12, three additional cookware products were reported by the FDA, which may leach lead into food when used for cooking

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on the 2nd of September 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of William Pounds (25 E 666), 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 December 18, 2025, 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 17th day of September, 2025.

A. Susan Biggers

Administratrix of the Estate of William Pounds

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/17, 24,10/01 & 08/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on the 16th of September 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Betty Ann Philbeck (25 E 705), 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 Nadine Bell Ramsey, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before December 26, 2025, 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 24th day of September, 2025.

Nadine Bell Ramsey Administratrix of the Estate of Betty Ann Philbeck

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/24, 10/01, 08 &15/2025)

NOTICE

LEGAL

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on the 8th of September 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Betty J. Neighbors (24 E 816), 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 December 18, 2025, 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 17th day of September, 2025.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of Betty J. Neighbors Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (9/17, 24,10/01 & 08/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 3rd of September, 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of GRADY DALE McCLAIN (25 E 681), 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, Lisa Setzer McClain, Administratrix on or before the 12th of December, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

Lisa Setzer McClain, Administratrix

Estate of Grady Dale McClain

507 E Double Shoals Rd

Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 2nd of September, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of NANCY WARLICK CARPENTER (25 E 610), 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, Larry Self Carpenter, Jr., Executor on or before the 12th of December, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

Larry Self Carpenter, Jr., Executor

Estate of Nancy Warlick Carpenter

948 Oak Grove Clover Hill Church Rd

Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

or food storage. Products included in the FDA’s warning include Kadai/Karahi Tiger White (Pure Aluminum Utensils® Tiger White RTM NO: 2608606 AN ISO 9001:2015 Certified Co. SARASWATI STRIPS PVT. LTD. INDIA), Silver Horse (7 6554273084 5 Aluminum Mathar Kadai 26), Silver Horse (7 6554272863 7 Aluminum Milk Pan 4), and JK Vallabhdas (Aluminum Kadai India Bazaar #3 2000000772).

The listed product(s) are cookware tested by FDA. FDA’s analysis demonstrates that such products may leach lead into food. Potentially affected products are not limited to this list. Additional products will be added to this alert as needed.

Because the FDA could not identify and contact the distributor or responsible party to facilitate a recall, this product may still be sold as cookware in retail stores. Retailers should discontinue sales, and consumers should not use this product as cookware or food storage.

The FDA is actively working to remove cookware from the market that may leach lead into food when used for cooking.

Lead is toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status, and there is no known safe level of exposure to lead. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause serious health problems, particularly in children and fetuses. Consuming food with elevated lead levels can contribute to elevated levels of lead in the blood. Children and babies are more susceptible to lead toxicity due to their

smaller body size, metabolism, and rapid growth. At low levels, children may not have obvious symptoms but can still experience trouble learning, low IQ, and behavior changes. At higher levels of lead exposure, people may experience fatigue, headache, stomach pain, vomiting, or neurological changes.

The FDA recommends:

• Consumers should check their homes for the products listed below and throw away any cookware that may be able to leach lead into food when used for cooking or food storage.

• Do not donate or refurbish this cookware.

• Consumers who have concerns about lead exposure or elevated levels of lead should contact their health care provider.

• Retailers and distributors are responsible for ensuring cookware sold and/or distributed for use in contact with food are safe for their intended use and comply with all FDA regulations.

• Various testing methods for leachable lead are available, or retailers/distributors may use FDA’s lead leach testing protocol for cookware.

• Retailers and distributors of cookware are encouraged to consult with the FDA regarding the safety and regulatory status of any products used in contact with food that they market or distribute. The FDA’s surveillance is ongoing. Additional products will be added to this alert as needed.

Questions for the FDA related to this topic can be sent to premarkt@fda.hhs.gov.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th of April, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of BRENDA McSWAIN BRIDGES (25 E 341), 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, Kelly Bridges Collum, Executrix on or before the 12th of December, 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 10th day of September, 2025.

Kelly Bridges Collum, Executrix Estate of Brenda McSwain Bridges. 3025 McKinney Rd Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (9/10,17, 24 & 10/01/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 26th of August, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of FREDERICK SCOTT BROWN (25 E 656), 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, Richard Glen Brown, Executor on or before the 5th of December, 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 3rd day of September, 2025.

Richard Glen Brown, Executor Estate of Frederick Scott Brown 150 Darby Drive Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (9/03,10,17 & 24/2025)

LEGAL NOTICE

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th of August, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of MYRA R. SHEFFIELD (25 E 671), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Robert R. Sheffield, Jr. or Robert Ray Sheffield, Executor on or before the 5th of December, 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 3rd day of September, 2025.

Robert R. Sheffield, Jr. or Robert Ray Sheffield, Executor Estate of Myra R. Sheffield 504 Linwood Rd Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (9/03,10,17 & 24/2025)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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 704-2970102 or 704-297-0103

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENTS! Steel Buildings & Covers. Hay Barns, Boat Storage Sheds, Pavilions, Tractor & Implement Storage. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895

THIS COMPANY HAS TO-

TALLY CHANGED the home business in the health and wellness industry. Great earning opportunity. www. livegoodtour.com/stonehenge01.

EMPLOYMENT

ONE ON ONE CARE, INC.

We are currently hiring for 1st and 3rd shift to work with adults with intellectual disabilities. No exp. necessary, will train. Must be 18 yrs old with a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and registration, and HS diploma/GED. 203 Lee St. Shelby or call Shelley at 704-7-473-9965 (704) 4825200 spacker@oneononecare.net

FULL-TIME PARTS PULLER

POSITION. at Auto Parts of Shelby. Must have your own tools. Apply in person at 1021 County Home Rd., Shelby, NC 28152. Ph. 704-487-5234

HIRING... PERSON 1ST LLC is hiring for Direct Support Professional/Community Living and Support in Gaston, Cleveland, Lincolnton and Rutherford Counties. 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

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

QUALITY FOR OVER 30

YEARS! Now offering Dryer Vent cleaning! Pressure Washing, Deck Staining, Mulching, Pine Needles, Pruning, Install Ceiling Fans & Mini Blinds and much more! Call or Text today (704) 692-4449

EARLS LAWN CARE. Mowing, trimming, edging, trimming bushes, landscaping upkeep, leaf removal. (704) 640-3842 earlslawncarenc@yahoo.com

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Foundations, Fireplaces, Outside Fireplaces, Brick, Block & Stone. Specialty in small jobs. 50 years experience. (863) 532-1587

BUSINESS

SERVICES

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

JIM’S PAINTING SERVICE. Painting, tile floors, decks, all carpentry work, staining. Free estimates. Now is the time to paint outside! Part time painters needed. Ask for Jim 828429-7511.

CRAFTY CLEANING, SALTZ

HANDY SERVICES. House cleaning, garage clean out, haul off unwanted items, light yard work, mowing, lawn care, leaf clean up, light landscaping, debris clean up & more. Free estimates. 828-5560580 or 828-226-9878.

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES. Specializing in small / minor home projects. Kings Mountain, Shelby, Gastonia Area. Minor plumbing repair, furniture assembly, painting touchups, minor sheetrock repair, light fixture repair, fence & gate repair, building / installing shelves, door replacement / repairs, screen repairs, picture hanging, clutter removal, grass cutting, pressure washing, baby proofing. Call or Text (910) 474-2374

LESSONS

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO CAN build Balsa Wood RC Model Aircraft. Willing to pay for you to teach me. Please text to 704-538-6807.

AUCTIONS

STANLEY & MT HOLLY AUCTION. PUBLIC SALE. 10AM, Oct. 3rd, 2025. Stanley & Mt. Holly Mini Storage, 3844 Charles Raper Jonas Hwy., & 1120 Kelly Rd. Contents of Units: #31 Miller, #A04 Barber for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 473-7358 andrew.sain@gmail.com

PATTERSON SPRINGS & RUTHERFORD AUCTION. PUBLIC SALE - 11:30AM, Oct. 3rd, 2025 at Patterson Springs Storage, 1826 Creek Ridge Rd., Shelby, NC & Rutherford Mini Storage 1301 US 221, Rutherford. Contents of Units: #34 #48 Blackburn, #63 Sullivan, #C15, #C16 Vickers for Non-Payment of Storage Rent. (704) 473-7358 andrew.sain@gmail.com

ESTATE AUCTION OF MANZI CALDWELL. ONSITE and ONLINE (Deceased Estate), Saturday, October 4th, 2025 @ 10 am; Preview: Friday, October 3rd, 2025 - 10 am till 6 pm; WWW.EJ-AUCTION. COM; Location: 78 Evans Cove Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751; Partial Listing: Massey Ferguson 362, Kubota L245 Tractor, Allis-Chalmers 6080, Bolen’s Tractor, Farmall 140 Tractor w/Sprayer, New Holland 353, MF 253 Tractor, MF Round Baler, Grain Wagons, Corn Shellers, Corn Grinders, Golf Cart, Shop Tools, Grinder, Mixer, Gravity Wagons, Antiques so much more! Edward Johnson Auctioneers, Inc. 828-593-9649. NC8134, NC8496 (828) 593-9649

PRIVATE AUCTION. DISCOVERY NISSAN, 631 S. POST RD., SHELBY, NC 28152. 2020 FORD ESCAPE AMOUNT STARTING: $7,363.02. THE SALE WILL BE HELD AT 631 S. POST RD., SHELBY, NC 28152 ON OCTOBER 9TH, 2025 AT 2PM. CLEDDEN@DISCOVERYNISSAN.COM

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

ESTATE SALE (3 BIG DAYS!) Fri., Oct 3rd from 1:00 PM6:00 PM; Sat Oct 4th from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. & Sun Oct 5th, 2025 from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Antique Furniture, Jewelry, Floral Arrangements, Clothing and Too Much to List! 1621 N. Oak Dr., Shelby, NC 28150

ESTATE SALE. Sat., Sept 27th, 11am-5:00pm. Furniture. Kitchen table/chairs, big recliner chair. And more! Call 704-739-2117. 405 Brice Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

MOVING SALE Sat, Sept. 27th, 8 am-12 pm. Something for everyone. 201 Churchill Dr, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

ESTATE SALE. SAT., 9/27/25, 8am-until. Questions: call Gayle 704-734-8099. Off of McKinney Rd., 325 Gwen Ln., Shelby, NC 28152

3-FAMILY YARD SALE. Saturday, 9/27/25, 8:00am-until. Electric fireplace logs, luggage, home decor. Lots of stuff. 119 Trotter Lane, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

ESTATE SALE: SAT., SEPT. 27th 2025, 8 am-3 pm. Bedroom Suite, Gun safe, Solid wood dining suite w/6 chairs, Flatscreen TV, dishes, cookware and etc. 135 Old Home Place, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

MOVING SALE SAT., OCTOBER 4, 7:30am-12:30pm. Black Refrigerator, new baby bed w/mattress, Chester drawer-great condition. Baby clothes (3 months-size 6). All kinds of baby things. Boys clothing (size 5-12) Lots of women’s jeans and other clothing. Household goods. Big doll collection! 723 Salem Church Road, Bostic, NC 28018

FOR SALE

BACKHOE BUCKETS FOR

SALE. 1 front end loader bucket, 2 backhoe buckets for 580 case. Excellent condition. All $2,000. 828-394-8277.

MARTIN GUITAR. 1984 Martin HD-28 GM guitar for sale. $3200. 704-473-2034

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD. Cut, split, delivered, all green oak, 15’’ length & shorter. $75., throw off only, cash only. 828-395-0758.

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD. Cut, split, delivered, seasoned mix hardwood $75., throw off price, $10 extra to stack. Cash only. Cut 16’’ to 18’’ length. 828-395-0758.

FOR SALE

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD. Cut, split, delivered seasoned small stove wood mix. 15’’ length & shorter. $75., throw off only, cash only. 828-3950758.

ITEMS FOR SALE. Air Compressor, Battery charger, Gas pressure washer, Kero-Sun heater, New 8,000 Walt Firman Generator, Video cassette recorder, 22” push mower, 46’ John Deere Mower, 27 horsepower 52 inch Ferris Mower, 6 ft. & 16 ft. ladders. Call Tues-Fri. 704-472-8886-Scott.

SPRAY RIG W/Generator & trailer. $2300 (704) 477-0516

GENERATOR, 3 WINCHES, 2 WHEELCHAIR CARRIERS, cherry pickers, front-end loader, box scrape, 6 trailers, Honda tractor- 2 forks, 5 stage cylinder. 828-429-1495. NEW! “HOME STRETCH” RECLINING LIFT CHAIR. Bought August 12th, 2025 for $999. Will sell for $600. (828) 429-6779

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 SWISS BUSH HOG Pull Behind, Been used 6 hrs. $2,000. 828-289-8844.

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

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

TABLE WITH CHAIRS. High top table w/ 4 chairs, all solid wood. Comes with two 12” drop-in inserts. Call for measurements if needed. $65.00 (704) 692-4765 wilcurb@aol. com

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

FOR SALE

METAL ROOFING. Carport Metal “One Piece OR The Whole Roof” We get deliveries twice a week! J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC 28043. (828) 245-5895

KMHS GRADUATION DVDS. $30. Call for details: (803) 627-6067

CAMPING ITEMS. Tent light, fire pit, Coleman propane stove, Coleman iron pan, Silicone Water Guard. All like new. 704-739-7201, 704-4669748

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

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

1 MAUSOLEUM AT ROSE HILL Cemetery. Located in Fallston, NC. 704-300-0590

J. JOHNSON SALES. Steel Buildings, Carports, Garages. Large On-site Display. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895

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

MEN’S BLACK NEW GENESIS CRUISER bicycle $50. Used cruiser, new tires, new rims, $40. 828-782-7221.

15’ TRAILER, $1,200. 8’ trailer, $250; 12’ trailer, $2,000 (has electric winch-drop trailer; (2) 6’ stepladders, $60 each; 32’ ladder, $250; 2-piece ladder scaffolding w/ ladder jacks, $100. (864) 4923238

2 CEMETERY PLOTS l ocated in Four Seasons, Cleveland Memorial Park. $2,500 per space plus buyer pays $499 transfer fee. (704) 9950506

CLEVELAND MEMORIAL PLOTS. $4100 Beautiful resting place located in Cleveland Memorial Park. Fountain 3 lot 168, spaces 1+2, Poly Vaults package deal. Call or Text (828) 713-4187

POWER CHAIR / SCOOTER CARRIER. Comes with cover, tie downs & bifold ramp. (828) 429-1317

HAY FOR SALE IN GOLDEN VALLEY. 4x5 Round Bales $45, Square Bales $5. (704) 538-9529

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

tary save an additional 10%. 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 HEARING AIDS!! Highquality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors.

Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 888-970-4637

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: 1-833641-6577

FOR SALE

2 LAWN MOWERS FOR SALE. New Troy-bilt riding mower, 42” cut, $1550. Also, New in box, Greenworks 60 volt, self-propelled. 21” mower, cut 1 acre on single charge. $400. 704-466-5880. LPV FLOORING. U.S. Floors. Luxury vinyl plank flooring. Waterproof, stain proof, durable, hard-wearing, $199. (941) 284-9692 BROYHILL RECLINER ARMCHAIR. Good condition, multi-color, $69. Best offer. (941) 284-9692

BULLET LOADERS. Bullet loaders .38 caliber, 9mm, 40, and 45 caliber. Includes powder, brass, and lead. Will sell as a package deal. Call Raymond for a price! (704) 6925200 debragarris@carolina. rr.com

RUGER

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. No fuss.

WANT TO BUY

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 4720006

AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828289-1488.

WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 692-1006

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: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-245-6756 or cell # 828289-1488.

WANT TO BUY PRIVATE LOT. With mobile home hook up in Cleveland County. (704) 4668324

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

FORD TRACTOR MODEL 1910. 3 cylinder diesel, front loader, 3 point hitch, wet lines. $6500. 828-289-1817.

FRESH CUT HAY. 4x5 large hay bales. Hasn’t been wet yet. $35 per bale. 828-429-4900. (828) 429-4900

PETS & LIVESTOCK

TRADE AND SALE. Would like to trade 2 guinea roosters for a guinea hen. Also, for sale-9 Muscovy Ducks, 9 months old.

$3 ea. 704-466-8741

FREE CATS. Free cats to good homes. We need to rehome our cats because we are moving. 704-470-7636.

2 BLUE HEALER PUPS. 1 Male, 1 Female $80 for both or $100 for one. Call anytime (704) 482-6010

10’X10’X6’ DOG KENNELS. Dog Houses and Dog Buildings. Delivery & Set Up Available. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MALTESE PUPPIES FOR SALE. Cash Only. (828) 5861842 toosweetkennels@aol. com

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. 13 weeks old. Ready for new home. Dewormed, 1st set of shots. $300 each. 704-4666983.

FEMALE MALTIPOO PUPPY. 10 weeks old. Cream white, adorable & sweet. $850. If no answer, leave message. (828) 675-4968

YORKSHIRE TERRIER READY NOW! One Beautiful Boy “Ready to go Home with You Today!” Vet examined, vaccinated, registered, one year genetic health guaranteed. Two Free 30-Day Health Insurance Policies. $1200. ALSO: female Shih Tzu $1000. Text me (980) 422-6901

MINIATURE PINCHERS, MALES AND FEMALES. Adults and puppies. 8 to 10 pound size. Good temperament, all colors, great breeders. Looking to downsize. Price has been reduced! $300 each. Ask for price on pairs. 828-3518227.

TOY MALTI POO PUPPIES. Males & females. Dew claws removed & tails docked. Wormed & groomed with Puppy Chow Kit. $400 & up. 3 year old YorkiePoo/Maltese female $500 obo. 2 neutered male Manx cats. 1 black, 1 orange. $300 each. Call, NO texts. (828) 3910919 TOY POODLES & MALTESE DOGS for sale. Toy poodles, 8 wks. old - 3 yrs. old. Starting at $150-UP. Also, 2 Maltese, $500 each. 828-289-8844.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MAINE COON KITTENS TICA

REGISTERED. Maine Coon

Kittens available. TICA registered. Non Related litters, males and females available. Parents available for viewing. 1st shots, deworming, health guarantee, and breeding rights. Prices depending on kitten color and sex of kitten. Bi- color Males-2 ($700) 10- weeksBlack male -1($1,000) 10 weeks- Red male -1($1,600) 15 weeks- Red female -1 ($1600) 15 weeks- Black Tortie Classic female -1 ($2,800) 15 weeksBlack Tortie -1 ($1,000) 10 weeks- Also 2 female Rescues available also. ($300) Text, call, or video chat. (252) 5298010 carriewells13@icloud.com

3 AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. 2 males, 1 female. Blue eyes, wormed and shots UTD. $500 males, $600 female. 704-418-6454, (704) 482-0178

CHIHUAHUA & DACHSHUND FOR SALE. Chihuahua long and short hair, shots utd. Dachshund shots utd. Black and tan. Very playful. (919) 738-1299 kthornton1961@gmail.com

TOY POODLE PUPPIES. 1st shots & wormed. $400 cash. 704-466-5883.

4 TOY AUSTRALIAN SHEP-

HERD PUPPIES. Merles, 2 females, 2 males, born 8/21/25. $550 each. 828-501-3213. 2417 Salem Church Road, Ellenboro, NC 28042.

CARS & TRUCKS

2000 NISSAN QUEST 197,000 miles, $1500. (704) 312-6355

2013 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500HD 2 DR, Automatic, Black, $7,500. Also, 2007 Z-4 BMW, Automatic, Blue. $6,500. Message 704300-9223.

2016 FORD FUSION TITANIC. 103K miles, fully loaded. $5995. 828-287-3820.

CARS & TRUCKS

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! 3-ton chain hoist $195. 6,000 pound coffin hoist $195. Retails for around $600 each. Call/text 828-2891817.

CAMPERS

2020 FOREST RIVER CRUISE LITE. Sleeps 5, has an electric fireplace, full size refrigerator, 2 TV’s, full size sofa. Must Sell! Comes with towing package. Call 704692-5200 for more info and price. Ask for Raymond (704) 692-5200

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS

2014 HONDA RECON 250 2WD, 4 wheeler. $350. 828351-8175.

2005 HARLEY DAVIDSON. 21” Apes, Custom Indicators, Shotgun Exhaust Pipes, Remote Control Garage Door Opener, Chrome Switches, Braided Cables. 14,800 Miles. Original Owner. $6500. (909) 900-5777

2013 HARLEY DAVIDSON ULTRA CLASSIC. 1850CC, new battery, very clean, great condition, MAKE AN OFFER! MUST SELL!!! 828-289-8943. MOBILE HOMES 1999 DW MOBILE HOME. for Sale in Catawba, NC. $25,000. Some flooring needed. Call 980-241-5538.

MOBILE HOMES

FREE MOBILE HOME. Must be moved. Rough —needs work. Solid frame — walls and roof. Has trash throughout inside — must take it AS IS. Must have your own mover. (727) 743-4908 craig@ blueridgemobilehomepark. com

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

335A GOLD ST, SHELBY, NC Duplex. 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom. Rent $995 mo., Deposit $995. App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

104 VALENTINE RD, KINGS MTN, NC. Singlewide, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Rent $300 weekly, Deposit $1000. No pets, no smoking. App fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

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

1233 S. LAFAYETTE ST., Shelby, NC. 3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bathrooms. Rent $1595 mo., Deposit $1595. $25 Application Fee per adult. 704-2144180

110 COMER AVE, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC. Single Wide. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Rent $250 Weekly, Deposit $1000. No pets, no smoking, App fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

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.

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

FOR RENT

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING AT ITS BEST!

55 and older. 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartments. Forest City. $700 deposit, $700 month. (828) 447-9622

FOREST CITY, BUTTERLY DRIVE. SINGLEWIDE . Covered entrances. Storage shed. Central heating and air. Lawn and trash services available. First month rent and security deposit with year lease. Chase area schools. Pet friendly with deposit. 828-289-2980.

2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH TRAILER. Kitchen, living room, air conditioning. Call 828-3950951.

3 BEDROOM, 2 FULL BATH mobile

IRS assesses $162 million in penalties over false tax credit claims tied to social media

The Internal Revenue Service is alerting taxpayers about a growing number of fraudulent tax schemes circulating on social media that promote the misuse of credits such as the Fuel Tax Credit and the Sick and Family Leave Credit. These scams have led thousands of taxpayers to file inaccurate or frivolous returns, often resulting in the denial of refunds and steep penalties.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING

Since 2022, the IRS has seen a surge in questionable refund claims fueled by misleading social media posts and bad actors posing as tax experts. Many of the posts falsely claim that all taxpayers are eligible for credits they do not actually qualify for, such as those meant for self-employed individuals or businesses. The IRS routinely publishes and updates a list of frivolous positions on IRS.gov that could lead to the imposition of penalties. “These schemes are not only misleading but can cost taxpayers dearly,” said James Clifford, IRS Director Return Integrity and Compliance Services. “People who follow this advice could end up with rejected claims and a penalty of up to $5,000 in addition to any other penalties that might apply. So far, the IRS has imposed over 32,000 penalties costing taxpayers more

This is a notice that a hearing concerning the dwelling unit located at 109 Water Oak St. in Kings Mountain, NC being parcel #9877 as shown on the Cleveland County Tax Map and being more particularly described in that certain deed in the Cleveland County Registry in Deed Book #7-Q Page #15 will take place on the 29th day of September, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at the Citizens Service Center (Public Works Building) located at 1013 N. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC.

A preliminary housing inspection conducted on 9/10/25 by a City of Kings Mountain Code Enforcement Officer of the subject dwelling revealed that the same appears to be Unfit for Human Habitation and in violation of the City of Kings Mountain Housing Code because the dwelling is either dilapidated or deteriorated.

The owner of this property and other parties in interest therein have the right to file an answer to this complaint and to appear in person or otherwise, and give testimony at this hearing. Upon such hearing, if the Code Enforcement Officer finds that the above described conditions do in fact exist in violation of the Housing Codes and that they do render the dwelling to be Unfit for Human Habitation, the Code Enforcement Officer will issue an order in writing to the owner and/or responsible parties of such dwelling, requiring the owner and/or responsible parties to remedy such conditions by repairs and/or by vacating, or by demolition, or by taking such other steps as may be necessary to remedy such conditions.

Please call 704-734-4599 if you have any questions. All owners and parties of interest are invited to attend this hearing.

KMH (9/24/2025)

than $162 million. It’s in the taxpayer’s best interest to stay informed.” These scams often have common traits:

• Social media posts that claim everyone qualifies for certain tax credits.

• Promises of “easy” or “fast” refund with minimal documentation.

• Instructions to file amended returns, even if you did not originally qualify for the credits.

• Encouragement to ignore IRS letters or respond with false information.

Taxpayers who submit false claims may face serious consequences:

• Delayed refunds.

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of:

ARTHUR HOUSTON SMITH, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 11th day of September, 2025, as Executor of the Estate Arthur Houston Smith, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 26th day of December, 2025, this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 24th day of September, 2025.

Mark E. Smith, EX. 1137 Granville Road Charlotte, NC 28207

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (9/24, 10/1, 10/8 & 10/15/2025)

• Denied refund claims.

• A $5,000 civil penalty under Internal Revenue Code Section 6702 for filing a frivolous return.

• Subject to further IRS examination and enforcement action.

Taxpayers who believe they have been misled or filed an incorrect return should:

• Amend the tax return as soon as possible using Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

• Respond promptly to any IRS letters or notices.

• Seek help from a reputable tax professional or the IRS’s official resources at IRS.gov.

If you suspect tax fraud, report it to the IRS by emailing phishing@irs.gov or file a complaint with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/. The IRS urges all taxpayers to be cautious when relying on social media posts. Always verify claims with credible sources or consult a qualified tax professional.

For the latest updates on tax scams and IRS warnings, visit Tax Scams at https://www.irs.gov/help/ tax-scams. In addition to https://IRS.gov, the IRS routinely publishes helpful information on IRS Social Media. Follow @IRStaxsecurity on X (Twitter) for fraud awareness information.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25 E 694

Having qualified as Administratrix of the ESTATE OF CHARLEY HERRON, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Charley Herron to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Lori Ann Herron, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 17th day of December, 2025 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 17th day of September, 2025

Lori Ann Herron, Administratrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150.

KMH (9/17, 9/24, 10/1 & 10/8/2025)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FRIENDSHIP WORD SEARCH

Electroencephalograph 23. Middle Eastern country 24. Extremely angry 25. Title used before a woman’s name 26. British thermal unit 29. By the way (abbr.) 30. Anger 31. Nullifies 32. Ones who acquire 35. Time zone 36. Arabic name 38. Protein in mucus 40. Ballpoint pen 41. Mimics 42. Humans have a lot of it 43. Expressions of good wishes 44. Cool!

45. One point east of due south

46. City of Angels football team (abbr.) 47. A way to save for retirement

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

By JIM MILLER Editor

How to Get Relief from Dry Eyes

Dear Savvy Senior

What kinds of treatments are available to combat dry eyes? Since I turned 55, my eyes have become increasingly dry and sensitive.

Blinking Brenda

Dear Brenda,

Dry eye is a very common problem that affects an estimated 16 million Americans. But you don’t have to just put up with it. There are lifestyle adjustments and multiple treatment options available to keep your eyes moist and healthy. Here’s what you should know.

Dry Eye Problems

Dry, red, burning, irritated eyes are one of the most common reasons for visits to the eye doctor, but discomfort isn’t the only problem of dry eyes. Light sensitivity and blurred or fluctuating vision are common problems too, and worse yet, dry eyes are more likely to get scratched or infected, which could damage your vision permanently.

The reason people get dry eyes are because they either don’t produce enough tears to keep their eyes properly lubricated, or because they produce poor quality tears.

In some cases, dry eyes can be triggered by medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome. It can also be brought on by age (tear production tends to diminish as we get older), eye conditions, eyelid problems, certain medications, environmental factors and even LASIK and cataract surgery. Dry eyes are also more common in women, especially after menopause.

Lifestyle Adjustments

The first step experts recommend in dealing with dry eyes is to check your lifestyle and surroundings for factors that might be contributing to the problem and make these adjustments:

• Avoid blowing air: Keep your eyes away from air vents, hair dryers, oscillating and ceiling fans and consider buying a home humidifier.

• Blink more: When you’re reading, watching television, or using a smartphone, tablet or computer, take frequent breaks because these activities cause you to blink less often.

• Avoid irritants: Avoid smoke-filled places and if you swim, wear goggles to cut down exposure to chemicals.

• Use moisture chamber eyeglasses: These goggles/glasses wrap around the sides of your face to seal off your eyes from wind, dust and other drying irritants. These are available in many styles, and some in the Airshield collection from 7Eye.com can be made with prescription lenses.

• Check your meds: Dozens of prescriptions and over the counter (OTC) drugs like antihistamines, decongestants, diuretics, beta-blockers, antidepressants, tranquilizers, and Parkinson’s medications can all cause dry eyes. If you’re taking any of these, ask your doctor about alternatives.

• Get more omega-3s: Studies show that eating more fish and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (or take a supplement) helps some people.

Treatment Options

If adjusting your environment and habits doesn’t do the trick, there are a variety of OTC eye drops called artifi cial tears, along with moisturizing gels and ointments that may help your eyes feel better. If you experience a lot of burning, try another product or opt for a preservative-free formula. Or, if you have itchy dry eyes, you may get more relief from antihistamine eye drops,

like olopatadine (Pataday) and ketotifen (Alaway, Zaditor), or decongestant eye drops like naphazoline/glycerin (Clear Eyes).

If the lifestyle and OTC treatments don’t help, see an ophthalmologist. He or she can offer additional advice and may prescribe a medication. There are several FDA approved medications for dry eye like Restasis, Xiidra and Miebo.

If your dry eye is severe and does not improve, you doctor might recommend some office procedures like punctal plugs, thermal pulsation, meibomian gland expression, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. These procedures target the underlying causes of dry eye, such as meibomian gland dysfunction or tear drainage issues.

Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.