KM Herald 11-27-24

Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run December 7

The Kings Mountain Family YMCA’s 24th annual community Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run 5k Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The 5K begins at 9 AM, and there will also be a Kids Fun Run at 9:45 AM.

Packet pick-up is between 4 PM and 7 PM on Friday, Dec 6, or between 8 AM and 8:45 AM the morning of the race. The race and Packet pick-up will occur at First

Baptist Church, 605 W King Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086.

All runners, walkers, strollers, and pets (on a leash) are welcome at this great annual family-friendly race.

To register, visit https:// runsignup.com/km-jinglebell

All proceeds from this family-friendly event go to your YMCA’s financial assistance and scholarships programs. Your support helps kids and families in our com-

Thanksgiving Grocery Giveaway at King’s City Church Nov. 26

King’s City Church will distribute 100 Thanksgiving meal kits, along with a turkey or honey ham, to anyone in need. This Thanksgiving Grocery Giveaway will be held at 1128 York Rd, Kings Mountain, on November 26 at 6 p.m.

In addition to these groceries, they offer household necessities/cleaning supplies, pet food, diapers, and warm clothing for those in need.

“Our hope is that no family will go without a Thanksgiving meal in our town,” Senior Pastor Nakisha Wenzel said. “The Thanksgiving holiday is all about generosity, community, and gratefulness. As a church, we plan to express our love for our city by sharing what we have and caring for those in need.”

Choral Society’s Winter Concert

The Cleveland County Choral Society is a non-auditioned community choir. Its mission is to promote and provide quality choral music for the citizens of Cleveland County and surrounding communities. Experience the season's wonder and delight in Mack Wilberg's four-hand piano rendition of "Carol to the King," the tender strains of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and two powerful pieces from Handel's Messiah. For more information, email clevelandcountysings@gmail.com.

During its November 14 City Council meeting, the Planning Department provided updates on several commercial projects in different planning and development stages. These include hotels, fast-food restaurants, and other ventures set to shape the local area.

City Planning Director Henry Earle noted the scale of activity, stating that 2.2 million square feet of commercial space and 2.9 million square feet of industrial development are either proposed, underway, or recently completed. “There’s a lot happening here,” Earle said.

City Planning Department provides updates on area development projects

Boutique Hotel: The Cobblestone Hotel Preliminary work for a boutique hotel, The Cobblestone Hotel, is underway on West Gold Street, near the town hall. Earlier this year, land was cleared, and grading was completed. City Manager Jim Palenick mentioned plans to collaborate with Cleveland County to fund a parking deck using shared occupancy tax revenues. Palenick highlighted the need for additional parking downtown, noting that space for surface lots is limited.

Candlewood Suites on York Road A 2.5-acre site at 707

York Road has been proposed as the location for a Candlewood Suites hotel. The property owners have expressed interest in the project, but according to the planning department, no detailed plans have been finalized.

Chick-fil-A and Mobil Gas Station A Chick-fil-A restaurant and Mobil gas station are being considered for a fouracre site at the intersection of York Road and Innovation Drive. The planning department described the project as being in the early stages, with no formal plans yet submitted. Fast Food expansions on

York Road

Several fast-food restaurants are in various stages of development along York Road:

• Cook Out: Construction is currently underway near Starbucks, Biscuitville, and Taco Bell, with grading activities ongoing.

• Zaxby’s: Proposed near Waffle House, just north of Exit 8, this project is in the commercial review phase and undergoing a traffic impact analysis. Southern Artisan Spirits: Cardinal Gin Distillery Southern Artisan Spirits plans to open a distillery and

Shop Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30

Small Business Saturday is November 30, and KM Forward is excited to bring together local shops and encourage our community to shop locally—with a little added incentive! Shoppers can take care of their shopping needs that day and have a chance to win prizes.

Here’s how it works:

For every $10 spent at participating businesses, customers will receive one entry ticket into a drawing with three major prizes:

• $500 gift card

• $250 gift card

• $100 gift card

Participating businesses will collect and deliver their customers’ tickets to the Joy Theatre by 7 p.m. The drawing will be held at 7:15 p.m.

This year’s participants include:

• 133 West, 133 West Mountain St.

• 238 Cherokee, 222 S. Railroad Ave.

• Back Door Antiques, 209 S. Battleground Ave.

• Big Red’s Café, 830 E. King St.

ª Bridges Hardware, 301 W. King Street

• Carolina Cotton, 227 S Battleground Ave.

• Chat-n-Nibble, 415 N. Piedmont Ave.

• CRAVE Hot Dogs & BBQ, 218 S Railroad Ave.

• Dellinger’s Jewel Shop, 112 W Mountain St.

• Farmers Home Furniture, 401 S. Battleground Ave.

• Gold Medusa Coffee Co., 138 W Mountain St.

• Imperial Mercantile, 138 W Mountain St.

• Imperial Mercantile & Outfitters at 832 E King St.

• K-Donuts, 110 W. King St.,

• KM Marketplace, 125 S Battleground Ave

• Papa Johns, 231 S. Battleground Ave.

• ScissorSmith Salon, 125

W Mountain St.

• Simply Grace, 1300 Shelby Hwy.

• Southern Arts Society, 301 N. Piedmont Ave.

• The Skillet, 238 S. Cherokee St.

• The Social House at Royal T, 212 S. Railroad Ave.

• The Sweet Station, 211 S. Battleground Ave.

• The Wild Cholla, 213 S. Battleground Ave.

• Transparent Dreamz, 223 S. Battleground Ave.

• Trackside Trader, 210 S. Railroad Ave. KM Forward also thanks the community for supporting local businesses. Together, let’s make this Small Business Saturday a day to remember!

KM Christmas Tree Lighting drew the crowd to Patriots Park

By Loretta Cozart

Despite the cold temperatures, over 100 citizens gathered in Patriots Park on Friday, November 22, at 6 p.m. to welcome the holiday season and light the Christmas Tree.

Everyone gathered beside the tree as Kings Highway performed seasonal music, and The Social House by Royal T provided free hot cocoa, marshmallows, and candy canes. KM Forward poured cups of warm deliciousness and distributed cookies.

The Star of the show.

event, organized by the City of Kings Mountain’s Marketing, Tourism, and Events Department, was enjoyed by all as everyone got into the Christmas spirit!

This annual holiday

• Would you like

Mayor Rob Wagman offered a blessing, followed by remarks. His family joined him for the evening’s festivities.

Special Events Coordinator Angela Padgett read The First Christmas Tree. The crowd enjoyed the musical entertainment, courtesy of Kings Highway, and participated in carols before the tree was lit. Pastor Gabrial Thomas

A pop-up market featuring local artisans and merchants will occur on Saturday, November 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Adams Chapel AME Zion Church, 212 Lake Montonia Road, Kings

counted everyone down at the designated time, and the tree shone brightly in Patriots Park for all to see. The crowd cheered as the light came on!

Pastor Thomas thanked Marketing, Tourism, and Events Manager Susan Mosk and Special Events Coordinator Angela Padgett for all their hard work in planning the celebration. See TREE, Page 5A

and are asked to register at https:// forms.office.com/r/vevzv1yigk

The “Click It or Ticket” Campaign began Nov. 25

Kings Mountain Police Department announced that the North Carolina Governor’s Safety Program Thanksgiving “Click It or Ticket” Seatbelt Campaign will be in full force from Monday, November 25, through Sunday, December 1.

In a 2023 NC Seat Belt study, 91.9% of all drivers and 93.6% of front-right passengers wear seatbelts.

All drivers, front-seat passengers, and back-seat passengers ages 16 and older must wear seat belts. The driver is responsible for himself and all children under 16, and passengers ages 16 and older are responsible for themselves.

A child less than 8 years of age and less than 80 pounds in weight shall be properly secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system. In vehicles equipped with an active passenger-side front airbag and if the vehicle has a rear seat, a child less than 5 years of age and less than 40 pounds in weight shall be properly secured in a rear seat unless the child restraint system is designed for use with airbags.

If no seating position is equipped with a lap and shoulder belt to properly secure the weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system, a child under 8 years of age and between 40 and 80 pounds may be restrained by a properly fitted lap belt only. Children who weigh 80 pounds or more may be restrained by a properly fitted seatbelt and shoulder harness. Children less than age 16 in front

or back seats are covered under this law. The driver is responsible for all children less than 16 years old.

• Penalty not to exceed $25

• $188 full court costs

• Two (2) driver's license points

• No insurance points

• No conviction if the child is less than eight years old and the proof is presented at trial that Child Restraint Device (CRD) has been acquired since violation.

Children in rear-facing child safety seats should not be placed in the front seats of vehicles equipped with passenger-side airbags. The impact of a deploying airbag striking a rear-facing child safety seat could result in serious injury to the child.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that child safety seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 percent for infants (younger than 1 year old) and 54 percent for toddlers (1 to 4 years old) in passenger cars.

Children under age 13 should ride in the back seat for maximum safety.

In 1993, North Carolina became the first state to implement Click It or Ticket, an education and enforcement initiative to remind motorists that wearing a seat belt can save their life. The initiative aims to increase driver seat belt usage rates and reduce fatalities across North Carolina and has yielded significant results over the years. North Carolina law requires motor vehicle passengers in front and back seats to use seat belts.

Fifth rabies case in Cleveland County this year

On November 19, 2024, the Cleveland County Health Department was notified that a skunk tested positive for rabies. This is the fifth rabid animal identified in the county this year. The animal was found on AA Barrett Road, Shelby. Any person bitten or exposed to potentially infectious saliva from this animal should contact their healthcare provider or the local health department for a rabies risk assessment. You may contact the Cleveland County Health Department at 980-484-5169 or 980-484-5100.

Rabies is a fatal yet preventable disease if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is administered. Rabies is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal or via contamination of open wounds or mucus membranes with potentially infectious material such as saliva. Prevention of rabies is based on the protection of susceptible animals and people and the appropriate management of persons and animals exposed to rabies:

• Vaccinate pets. Per NC State Law, all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies and wear a rabies tag. Cats are the most commonly identified domestic animal with rabies.

History Of Thanksgiving

By Jack Weller

• Control measures for pets exposed to rabies: If pets are exposed to rabies, they should receive a booster dose of the rabies vaccine if they are currently vaccinated at the time of exposure. If pets are not currently vaccinated against rabies when exposed, they will be euthanized or quarantined for six months in accordance with state law.

• Control measures for persons exposed to rabies: If you believe you have been exposed to rabies, seek medical guidance from your healthcare provider or the local health department.

• Limit stray and feral animals. In the cities of Shelby, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, and Grover all dogs must be kept on a leash. People should not approach stray or feral dogs or cats. Feral cat colonies should be intensively monitored, and their location should be reported to Cleveland County Animal Services.

• Leave wildlife alone. Raccoons and other wildlife serve as the reservoir for rabies in North Carolina.

Rabies occurs throughout North Carolina. Anyone who sees an animal demonstrating unusual behavior should call Cleveland County Animal Services at 704-481-9884.

Have you ever wondered why America was the first nation to celebrate Thanksgiving in November each year? The following article shares the three federal proclamations that set the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day.

If you have ever watched Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, you would hear Linus van Pelt explain the first Thanksgiving like this:

In 1621, the Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving feast in America. They invited the great Indian Chief Massasoit and ninety of his warriors, who brought abundant amounts of food. Honored guests were Governor William Bradford, Captain Mills Standish, and Elder William Brewster, who was a minister who may have said a prayer something like this: We thank you, God, for

our homes, our food, and our safety in a new land. We thank God for the opportunity to create a new world for freedom and justice.

On October 3, 1789, President George Washington wrote a proclamation that declared that November 26th, the last Thursday in November, would be a public day of Thanksgiving. The proclamation can be found at: https://founders. archives.gov/documents/ Washington/05-04-02-0091

Washington wrote:

•To be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor—and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me “to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts

the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”

• To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us--and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.

• —To render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed On October 3, 1863, Abraham Lincoln declared that the last Thursday in November would be a national holiday of Thanksgiving.

His proclamation is available at: https:// obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/photos-andvideo/photo/2012/11/ abraham-lincolns-thanksgiving-day-proclamation-page-1

Lincoln wrote, “It has seemed fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and

those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. “ On October 6, 1941, the House passed a joint resolution declaring the last Thursday in November to be the legal Thanksgiving Day. The Senate, however, amended the resolution establishing the holiday as the fourth Thursday, which would consider those years when November has five Thursdays. The House agreed to the amendment, and President Roosevelt signed the resolution on December 26, 1941, thus establishing the fourth Thursday in November as the Federal Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Roosevelt's proclamation is available here: https:// www.roosevelthouse. hunter.cuny.edu/exhibits/ the-roosevelts-and-thanksgiving/

Here's one thought for you to consider: Perhaps the fourth day of November should be declared a Day of Giving Thanks. May each of us take time to give thanks for the gifts God provides – our house, food, clothes, safety, a fair government, our health, and the opportunity to serve others. Give Thanks for these gifts, this Thanksgiving.

Governor Cooper pushes for $25B in Federal Aid for

Hurricane Helene recovery amid

wrote.

Governor Roy Cooper has called for $25.57 billion in federal aid to address the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. This request, presented during a trip to Washington, D.C., includes meetings with President Joe Biden, Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, Congressman Chuck Edwards, and other federal officials.

A preliminary assessment by the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management estimates the hurricane caused $53.6 billion in damages—more than three times the destruction of Hurricane Florence in 2018.

"Hurricane Helene was the deadliest and most damaging storm our state has ever faced, and Western North Carolina needs our help to rebuild," Governor Cooper said. "Recovery will be long, complex, and expensive, requiring immediate and significant federal and state funding."

Federal Aid Breakdown

The Governor's $25.57 billion request includes funding for transportation, housing recovery, disaster loans, and agricultural relief:

• $7.41 billion for rebuilding highways, bridges, airports, and railroads.

• Nearly $6 billion for housing recovery, water quality, and infrastructure improvements.

• $1.75 billion for FEMA's Community Disaster Loan Program.

• $1.67 billion to address crop and timber losses, watershed protection, and forest restoration.

• $1.23 billion for the Small Business Administration's disaster loan programs.

President Biden echoed the urgency in a formal letter to the U.S. House Speaker, noting that FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund and the Small Business Administration's disaster loan program have nearly depleted their resources. "Without additional funding, FEMA's ability to provide life-saving and life-sustaining assistance will be compromised," Biden

political stand-off

The President also called for funding to restore power grids, repair drinking water systems, and address critical shortages of medical supplies caused by the hurricane.

State-Level Funding Stalemate

While Cooper pursues federal assistance, state-level recovery funding remains locked in a political impasse.

The Governor proposed an initial $3.9 billion state recovery package to rebuild homes, businesses, schools, and farms. However, Republican lawmakers in the North Carolina legislature passed a controversial 131-page bill allocating just $227 million for Hurricane Helene recovery. Critics argue this amount falls far short of what is needed. Furthermore, the funds are tied up in a restricted account that cannot be accessed until lawmakers convene again to appropriate them.

Three Republican legislators from Western North Carolina joined Democrats in opposing the bill, calling it rushed and insufficient.

"The state legislature has failed to approve meaningful funding for Western North Carolina while planning to lock in billions of dollars for taxpayer-funded private school vouchers," Cooper said.

The Governor and state legislators have been battling over a separate bill that would allocate an additional $500 million in grants for private school vouchers instead of distributing the funds for other purposes.

Adding to the controversy, the newly proposed Hurricane Helene recovery bill includes provisions unrelated to disaster relief, explicitly stripping powers from Democratic leaders in the Executive Branch, including the Governor and Attorney General. Western North Carolina Democrats have labeled the bill a partisan power grab. FEMA and Relief Efforts

FEMA has disbursed over $244 million in Individual

Assistance funds to Western North Carolina survivors, with more than 260,000 people registering for help. Additionally, 9,000 residents have received support through FEMA's Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.

Small Business Administration loans have attracted over 6,000 applications, reflecting the scale of the storm's economic impact.

Nearly 2,000 FEMA staff are assisting survivors, delivering resources, and aiding in search and rescue efforts.

Residents in need can apply for FEMA assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362, visiting https://www.disasterassistance.gov, or downloading the FEMA app.

Ongoing Challenges

Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction that includes 103 confirmed fatalities in North Carolina, a number expected to rise as recovery efforts continue.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner updates the figures daily.

Power restoration efforts have significantly

progressed, with outages reduced to 554 customers from a peak of over one million. Crews continue repairs, temporarily taking circuits offline to restore service more broadly.

Looking Ahead Cooper's administration continues advocating for federal and state funding to meet immediate needs and ensure long-term recovery. "We must work together to rebuild stronger, safer, and more resilient communities," Cooper emphasized.

As the political gridlock in the state legislature delays additional relief, the Governor's federal funding request remains critical to Western North Carolina's recovery. Residents and lawmakers alike await decisive action to rebuild infrastructure, restore homes, and bring stability back to affected communities.

For more information on the Governor's federal funding request, visit https:// www.osbm.nc.gov/hurricane-helene-recovery-federal-funding-needs/open.

The North Pole Express Carriage Rides are back this Christmas season, courtesy of KM Forward. This year, rides will be held on December 7, 14, and 21, 2024, from 5 to 9:00 p.m. The route will move back to Railroad Avenue loading at the Joy Theatre’s Liberty Mountain Garden. Carriage rides will move down Railroad Avenue, turning right on West Gold Street, right on South Tracy Street, right on West Mountain Street, and back on South Railroad Avenue. Two carriages, one car-

Older North Carolinians projected to outnumber children in the state by 2030

NCDHHS recently released a new data dashboard to provide statistical data about statewide and county-level aging profiles. The dashboard includes detailed information about population growth, income levels, and information breakdowns on key demographic populations.

The data dashboard will serve as a vital resource for residents, advocates, policymakers, and state officials as the Division of Aging moves forward with implementing its multi-sector plan for aging, known as All Ages, All Stages NC, released in September.

North Carolina ranks 9th in the nation for its population aged 65 and older, with one in six North Carolinians in this age group – a number that continues to grow. By 2025, one in five North Carolinians is projected to be 65 or older. By 2030, older adults will outnumber children for the first time in the state’s history. The Division of Aging’s data dashboard is a living,

interactive tool that will be updated regularly. In the next phase, the division will enhance the dashboard by incorporating metrics aligning with the four topics and eight priorities of all ages, All Stages NC.

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Join us as the City of Kings Mountain presents the “Christmas Kings Mountain” Parade, presented by CaroMont Health, on December 7 at 3:00 pm. The parade will begin on East King Street near KFC and proceed down West King Street, turning on South Railroad Avenue to Patriots Park.

LIEAP Application Day at Sr. Center Dec. 10

proof of income. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan to arrive early in case of a significant community turnout.

Over 100 entries are expected for the parade, including the Kings Mountain High School Marching Mountaineers, the Catawba Shrine Club’s Gator Patrol, the jolly ole elf himself, Santa Claus, and many other surprises. The 2024 Grand Marshal will be announced soon.

The Christmas Parade will impact various roads, beginning on King Street (74 Business) at the intersection of Deal Street, west down King Street, and then south on can relax and enjoy the holiday cheer. Tickets are available for purchase from club members, and pricing is: Adults $10, Children $5 (ticket is for breakfast only).

Breakfast is served from 7:30 am to 10:30 am while the Elf Closet is open from 7:30 am to 11:30 am and photos with Santa are from 8:00 am to 11:30 am (payment directly to photographer). Got any questions? Send Kings Mountain Woman’s Club a message on Facebook and they will be happy to help! You can email Kingsmountainwc@ gmail.com with questions too!

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE:

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings –William Arthur Ward

Pieces of Kings Mountain History

I often write this article about historical events in Kings Mountain. This week, I’m writing about an event that occurred less than a week ago, on Friday, November 22, at Gaston Christian School—East Cleveland campus, 105 E. Ridge Street. This event, too, was historical since it was the first time students had gathered as a student body in the auditorium in more than 40 years.

was excited for the moment the students would use this space to celebrate together.

As I looked around the room, I saw the care taken to honor the space as it was originally designed. The layout, seats, and stage hadn’t changed, either.

As a former junior high student at what was then known as Central School, my heart swelled with pride as I entered the auditorium. When Gaston Christian School purchased the property, I dreamed this day would one day come, but I had no idea I would be invited to witness the gathering. Surprisingly, the emotions that washed over me were almost overwhelming. Luckily, I held it together, as a sixth grader welcomed me and offered to usher me to my seat.

The day before, I received a text from Gaston Christian’s Head of School, Dr. Marc Stout, sharing the good news that the auditorium had received its certificate of occupancy that day and that the school would be holding its Thanksgiving Chapel in the auditorium with a special program on Friday. I was very honored to be asked to attend.

Dr. Stout greeted me near the stage, sharing they were close to finishing the work, with a few minor touches to be completed. He also explained that the night before, volunteers worked feverishly to build and paint risers for the students to use on this special occasion. It

But I knew years of neglect had left the old girl in bad shape, and loving hands had repaired all that damage. A fresh coat of paint, new lighting, carpet, HVAC, and updated electrical brought her into the 21st century. All the seats were sanded and sealed. Attention to detail was evident in the outcome; what I saw was beautiful.

I wanted to capture the moment, so I stepped up the left-side stairs and took a quick photo. I am sharing it with this story so you can see what words cannot adequately describe.

As the program began, Principal Victoria Ahern welcomed everyone. After Dr. Stout made a few remarks, the program began.

The children performed in small grade groups:

• First, the Kindergarten and first graders led those gathered in scripture and pledges and then sang “Fruits of the Spirit.”

• Pre-school and pre-K students sang “Thank You, God” and recited a prayer.

• Second and third graders recited the Thankfulness Poem and sang “Counting My Blessings.”

• Fourth and fifth graders sang “I Thank You God” and “The Goodness of God”

• To conclude, Chapel leaders lead the students and those gathered in the hymn, “Gratitude.”

As we sang in unison, I had to thank God for his hand in saving this place.

he saved a place that had been loved by so many, and this place will live on for future generations long after I am gone. Gratitude, abundant gratitude.

I often think of this school as a vibrant, living entity, a sanctuary of growth and learning. While I know that might sound ridiculous to some, it reflects the joy that fills my heart when I am in this space. Hearing the voices of children come together in celebration once more brought a profound sense of joy. This place, silent for so long, again resonates with laughter, camaraderie, and song, reminding us of the power of community and the magic that unfolds when we gather together. If a building can feel, then it too was celebrating with them. What began on Friday, November 21, at 11 a.m. will continue for decades to come.

As I left the school, I thanked Dr. Stout for inviting me. While I walked to my car, I realized what a wonderful moment in time I had been blessed to witness. My once lonely school is lonely no

Thanksgiving and ungrateful American celebrities

It’s been reported that some “A-list” celebrities are considering leaving the United States because Trump was reelected President. President Trump is a man who will serve four more years and then there will be someone else elected to take his place. The person in the White House is not forever.

Keep in mind that the pendulum swings. If Trump has a bad four years, then America would most likely elect a Democrat. Elections are not easy to predict. Just look at this past election. Many Americans including me were duped into thinking that Kamala Harris had a chance of winning. Almost every day ABC, CBS, NBC, and CNN lied to the American public about the poll numbers. Or, pollsters were lying to the networks. Every day it sounded like Harris either had a very small lead or that Harris and Trump were tied. Fox news kept reporting that Trump was in the lead which started sounding like they were pulling an ABC and just making up the stats as bad as the others were. On election day we came to find out that Fox news sources must have been better since Trump won by a resounding majority all the way around.

So, who knows what four years will bring?

It’s insane that people want to throw temper tantrums and stomp out of the country but may the door hit your fanny on the way out. Go ahead and leave. Do you think the average American cares?

I don’t understand how anyone can be raised up in America and become a successful movie star, entertainer or business person, make millions of dollars and maybe even billions and then cry in their cheerios. Most of these entertainers who want to pack up and leave made their money from people in the United States. They live lavish lifestyles. Sounds to me like they are very ungrateful and very spoiled. Italy, France, the United Kingdom, etc., are all great places but they aren’t the ones who elevated them to stardom and multi-millionaire statuses.

How about some gratitude? Thanksgiving would be a great time for some of these Hollywood icons to stop and give thanks for America, the Amirian people and all that America has done for them. This country is not perfect. Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, and Elon Musk are all people who have done well but they have their faults as do we all. If we tuck our tails and run out the door

because leadership has changed, then how do you make an impact four years from now when it will be time to change leadership again?

The early pilgrims sacrificed and risked their lives for America. They came here seeking religious freedom and a better life. They paid the price paving the way for these United States to become the greatest country in the world. Every generation has to pay a price. Our beautiful freedom and the opportunity to enjoy all that America has to offer has come as a result of the hard work of our forefathers and lives given on battle fields around the world so you and I can sit down at a table and give thanks to God and the many who have given so much for us.

I like to visit other countries. There are some beautiful people all around the world. However, there is no place like America. We have a lot of work to do. Our new leadership has a full plate of hard work ahead of him. Pray for Donald Trump. Pray for the new leadership. Pray for this country and for each other. Give thanks every day for every opportunity that comes our way. May this Thanksgiving be the best ever for you and may all of us in America have an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving.

LORETTA COZART

Kindergarten and 1st Grade students sing

“Fruits of the Spirit,” a fitting message for the inaugural performance at Gaston

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Dr. Marc Stout admires the space he and his team have worked tirelessly to restore.

Breakfast with Santa at the Woman’s Club

By Loretta Cozart

GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club held its annual Breakfast with Santa at the clubhouse on W. Mountain Street early Saturday morning. The young and young at heart shared the season's joy and did a little holiday shopping.

Children visited with Santa and enjoyed breakfast with their families before visiting with elves to pick special gifts for their parents and siblings.

Santa took a little time away from the North Pole to wish the children of Kings Mountain a Merry Christmas. If you missed him, don’t fret. He’ll be back for the Christmas Parade and visit with children at the Santa House in Patriots Park afterward.

1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons melted butter

3 eggs, beaten 1 cup pancake syrup (do not use lite!)

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 9” unbaked pie shell

1 cup chopped pecans Mix well, pour into pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until set.

Kings Mountain, with a mix of hospitality, dining, and service businesses contributing to the city’s expansion. Development plans are fluid now, with more updates from the city to follow.

Making lifetime memories. Photos by Loretta Cozart

Angela Padget reads The First Christmas Tree.

“Snowfall” in Patriots Park.

Friends of the Kings Mountain Woman's Club helped with Breakfast with Santa. Pictured L-R: Mary Weaver, Margot Plonk, and Julie Wright. Photo by Anne Gamble

This young fellow chats with Santa and shares his wish list during the GFWC Kings Mountain Breakfast with Santa event.

PECAN PIE (Joyce Lail)

Thankful for the Simple Things

Ready or not, it is here. Thanksgiving Day is on top of us. It’s time to gather for a hearty meal with family and friends and hopefully reminisce on past and present blessings in our lives. The Apostle Paul said “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (I Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV)

PASTOR PERRY HINES Central Methodist Church Kings Mountain

What stirs gratitude in your heart? I’m afraid that ingratitude is the order of the

day. Unfortunately, so often we don’t see the intrinsic value of something until it is gone. The hymn writer has said, “Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done... “

I am afraid that in a day so often characterized by affluence, it is easy to become numb to the simple blessings that accompany our lives.

I learned so much from my family of friends when I served for 16 years as the Director of the Open Door, a ministry to the marginalized and disenfranchised in the mountains of Western North

Carolina. I was placed there by God to love and serve the patrons who frequented our doors. As I look back on my life, I’m more aware every day, that I received more from them than I was able to give.

One such occasion was at our annual Christmas party celebration. Each year at Christmas, we pulled out all the stops to have a wonderful Christmas event to share our resources with our family of friends many of which were struggling to make ends meet. Though we served warm meals daily, on this occasion we went all out to have a meal fit for a king.

In addition to the warm meal, we gave out a gift box with staple food items and topped off the boxes with toys for those with children and clothing for all ages.

It was on one of those annual events, that I witnessed something that I have never forgotten. An elderly lady was sitting in the dining room in a world of her own, totally oblivious to anyone around her. I just happened to glance at her as she pulled a pair of white socks from her box. I watched her as tears profusely ran down her cheeks and she softly muttered under her breath,” Oh that’s just what I needed!

“ You would have thought she had received the keys to a new car or an all-expenses-paid vacation to the Bahamas.

I still think of that dear lady when I am ever so slightly discomforted by some perceived deprivation. I can’t help but wonder, have I lost the ability to be thankful for the simple things?

I remember the story of an old man who was overheard praying, “ Lord teach me that You are all that I need, before I have come to the place that You are all that I have. “ What a meaningful prayer to reflect on during this Thanksgiving season.

www.momsinprayer.org

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

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

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

Sunrise Baptist Church 208 Mail Road 704-692-3007

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

The Favor Center Church 602 Slater Street

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

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

El Bethel United Methodist Church

Long Creek Presbyterian Church

701 Long Creek Road

704-629-4406

Love Valley Baptist Church

2032 Bethlehem Road

704-730-0075

Macedonia Baptist Church

1101 S. Battleground Ave.

704-739-6811

Midview Baptist Church

703 Margrace Road

704-739-6711

Mount Zion

Missionary Baptist Church

220 N. Watterson Street

704-739-8354

Mountain View

Agape Church

506 Sparrow Springs Road

704-739-0160

122 El Bethel Rd. • Kings Mountain, NC

Mt. Olive

Baptist Church Compact School Road

704-739-4516

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

220 N. Watterson Street

704-739-8354

New Beginnings Church of Jesus Christ 541 Crocker Road

704-730-9507

New Bynum Chapel

AME

Zion Church N. Cansler Street

704-739-2606

New Camp Creek

Baptist Church 863 New Camp Creek Ch. Road

704-487-7128

New Life Family Worship Center 428 Oak Grove Road

704-739-9371

New Way Missionary

Baptist Church 105 Waco Road

704-724-0414

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

Oak View Baptist Church 1517 York Road

704-739-7831

Pathway Baptist Church 3100 Parkdale Circle 704-734-0852

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

Penley’s Chapel Church 1805 N Piedmont Ave

704-524-4139

Peoples Baptist Church 1010 Groves Street 704-739-0398

Proclaiming the Word Ministries 7011 Cleveland Avenue

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

Resurrection Lutheran Church 600 Crescent Circle 704-739-5580

Royal Praise Ministries 2055 Shelby Rd.

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

Second Baptist Church 120 Linwood Road 704-739-4216

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

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

Westover Baptist Church 114 Westover Drive

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

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

Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700

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

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Notice: In order to accommodate the number of churches in our communities, we will print two alternating lists of churches each week. If you don’t see the church you’re looking for, be sure to check next week.

The Nutcracker at Joy Theatre for one weekend only

Believe it or not - the holidays are fast approaching. Enjoy a family classic, The Nutcracker, the all-time favorite story of Clara’s magical trip to the land of sweets this holiday season. The Nutcracker will be performed on Friday, December 13th, at 7 pm, Saturday, December 14th, at 2 pm and 7 pm, and

Sunday, December 15th, at 4 pm at The Joy Theatre in Kings Mountain. Tickets are $17 each for general admission seating and $160 for a mezzanine seating

cluster of 4 with hor d'oeuvres. Tickets are available by calling 704-300-4130 or at https://sites.google.com/ site/kimberlasclassicalbal-

let/the-nutcracker-tickets.

Experience this magical storybook ballet with your family and friends, or escape one evening to dream with your children

for Kimberla’s School of Classical Ballet’s 15th annual production of The Nutcracker. They hope to see you there!

December library news

By Mari Slaughter

Mauney Memorial Library is proud to provide engaging programs for every age group! Below are programs offered in December. The Library will be closed for Christmas, December 21 through December 25, and for New Year’s Day on January 1.

• Library Storytime in Person (preschoolers) Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 am, Mauney Library Commu-

Come to the library to enjoy a story, music, and a take-home craft with

• Learn Grow Play (preschoolers) Fridays 10:00-11:30 am, Mauney Library Community Room. Play in centers, then enjoy a story, music, and a take-

home craft with Miss. Anne •Holiday Cupcake Decorating (Family – Register once for each person), Monday, December 9, 5:30pm -7:00 pm, Mauney Library Community Room. Join Emily to create fun and yummy holiday cupcakes. All supplies provided.

• Holiday Express at Deal Park (Family Program) Thursday, December 12, 4:30pm – 6:30 pm Walking Track Next to the Kings Mountain YMCA—Deal Park. Hop

on the Holiday Express for a train ride around the walking track! Walk the storywalk, read The Polar Express, eat cookies, drink hot chocolate, and see Santa!

• Lego Club (ages 6-12) Third Thursday of every month 3:30 pm4:30 pm, Library Community Room. Free build and participation in group projects; snacks are provided.

• Technology Assistance Make an appointment 704-739-2371

Mauney Memorial Library is at 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. For the latest in library news and events, visit www.mauneylibrary.org. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Patrick Senior Center December events

The Patrick Center is a SHIIP site and can help with Medicare questions and check to see if you qualify for Extra Help with your drug costs. We can also assist with transportation, loan equipment, incontinence supplies, nutritional supplements, and other services.

Please call the center at 704-734-0447 for more information or to sign up for programs. Unless otherwise noted, programs are open to people ages 55 and up.

The Center will be closed on Monday, December 23, Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, for Christmas and on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, for New Year’s Day.

December 2024 Special Events:

• Christmas Flower Arranging Class by Cheryl: Tuesday, December 3, 1011:30 a.m. The cost is $10. Please come to the front desk to sign up and pay the fee.

• Mental Health Resources by Oak St. Health: Wednesday, December 4, 10:00-11:00 am. Call the Center to sign up.

• Paint Class with Janie: Thursday, December 5, 5:15-7:15 p.m. The cost is $20. Refreshments will be served, and all supplies are provided. Please sign up and pay the fee at the front desk.

• Candy Cane Wreath-Making Class: Monday, December 9, 1-2 p.m. The cost is $10. Please come by the front desk to sign up and pay the fee.

• Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) Application Day: Tuesday, December 10, 9:00-11:00 am. Bring your current bank statement, electric and/or fuel bill, along with proof of income. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Craft Class with Claudia: Tuesday, December 10, 1:00-3:00 p.m. The cost is $2.00. Come to the Front Desk to sign up and pay.

• Lunch and Learn Presentation by Ivy Rehab: Monday, December 18, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. The topic

will be announced. Call the Center to sign up.

• Advance Directive Workshop by Atrium Health: Monday, December 16, 11:00 am-1:00 pm. Call the Center to sign up. Ongoing Activities at the Patrick Center:

• Ceramics: Mondays, 9:30 - 11:30 am.

• Technology Presentation by Trey Ross: 2nd Mondays, 10-11 am. Join Trey from the Mauney Memorial Library for a technology-topic presentation.

• Facebook Chat: Mondays, 10-10:45 am. Online via Facebook. (Cancelled for December 30)

• Seniors in Motion: Mondays/Wednesdays/ Fridays, 10:30-11:30 am. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.

• Quilting: Mondays, 12:30-3 pm.

• Beginner Quilting: Thursdays, 10 am-12 pm & 1-3 pm.

• Intermediate Line Dance (Dance Floor Rockers): Mondays, 1-3 pm.

• Intermediate Line Dance (Southern Class): Thursdays, 10-11:30 am.

• Beginner Line Dancing: Mondays, 11:3012:30 pm.

• Clogging: Mondays, 3:30-4:30 pm.

• Knitting: Tuesdays, 8:30-10:30 am.

• Veterans Meeting: 1st Tuesdays, 9-10 am.

• Bible History: Tuesdays, 10-11 am.

• Monthly Birthday Celebration: 4th Tuesdays, 10-11 am.

• REFIT Dance Exercise: Tuesdays, 11 am-12 pm.

• Volunteer Meeting: 3rd Tuesdays, 12:15-1 pm. (Cancelled for December)

• Chair Volleyball: Tuesdays, 1-3 pm and Fridays,

12-2 pm.

• Canasta: Tuesdays, 1-3 pm.

• Seniorcise: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4-4:45 pm. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members. (Cancelled on December 12)

• Tai Chi for Arthritis: Wednesdays, 9-10 am.

• Jewelry Class: Wednesdays, 10-11 am.

• Blood Pressure Clinic (Sponsored by Centerwell Home Health): 1st Wednesdays, 10-11:30 am.

• Color Me Calm: Wednesdays, 10-11 am.

• Food Giveaway: 3rd Wednesdays, 1-2:30 pm (Fall/Winter Schedule). Please call to sign up each month.

• Book Club by Mari with Mauney Memorial Library: 4th Wednesdays, 1-2 pm at the Patrick Center. Please call Mari at 704-7392371 for more information. New members welcome.

• Chair Yoga: Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 pm, starts December 4. The cost is $1 for non-YMCA members.

• Healthy Lifestyles Class: Thursdays, 8-9:30 am.

• Gentle Exercise: Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 am.

• Bingo: Thursdays, 10:30-11:15 am.

• Coffee & Conversation: Fridays, 8:30-10 am. (Cancelled on December 13)

• Dulcimer Jam: Fridays, 9-10 am. (Cancelled on December 13)

• Chorus: Fridays, 10-11 am. New members welcome. (Cancelled on December 13)

• Friday Lunch: Fridays, 11 am-12 pm. Call to sign up by Thursday at Noon or until we are full. Cost is $4. (Cancelled on December 13 and December 27)

• Ping Pong/Corn Hole: Fridays, 12-2 pm. (Cancelled on December 13)

• Shred Truck: The truck will be here on December 4 to shred onsite, but you can bring your items to be shredded at any time the center is open and put them in the locked bins in the lobby.

Snowflakes (Photos by Kimberla’s School of Classical Ballet)

Clara and Prince

Piedmont Lithium merges with Australia-based Sayona Mining

Piedmont Lithium Inc., headquartered in Belmont, North Carolina, has announced a merger with Australia-based Sayona Mining Limited to form a leading lithium producer. Under the agreement, Sayona will become the parent company, with both firms holding roughly equal equity in the merged entity. This move aims to strengthen its position in the growing but volatile lithium market.

The merger, valued at approximately $490 million, combines Piedmont's U.S.-focused operations with Sayona's extensive projects in Canada and Australia. Sayona's market value stands at $250 million, slightly higher than Piedmont's $240 million valuation.

The companies plan to raise $99 million in equity to support the new entity, including $27 million each from Piedmont and Sayona and a $46.8 million conditional placement to Resource Capital Fund VIII L.P. Pending shareholder approvals, the transaction is expected to close in the

first half of 2025.

The combined entity will list on Nasdaq while retaining a corporate presence in Belmont, alongside offices in Brisbane, Australia, and Montreal, Canada. Keith Phillips, Piedmont's CEO, described the merger as "a strategic step to weather the current industry downturn and position the company for future recovery in lithium markets."

Piedmont's flagship Carolina Lithium Project in Gaston County will remain a critical part of the merged company's portfolio. The project, leveraging rare U.S.-based spodumene assets, could transform Gaston County into a significant player in the global electric vehicle (EV) supply chain.

However, local opposition has challenged the project. Residents and officials have expressed concerns about environmental impacts and community disruption. Despite these challenges, Piedmont emphasizes its commitment to the Carolina Lithium Project. Phillips

reassured stakeholders, stating, "The merged company will maintain a strong commitment to our Carolina Lithium project and our U.S. headquarters in Belmont, North Carolina."

The project holds the potential for significant economic benefits, including job creation and increased tax revenue. However, community buy-in remains a hurdle as residents weigh these advantages against environmental risks.

The new company faces a volatile market. Lithium demand has surged due to its critical role in EV batteries, spurred by automakers like Tesla. Despite this, declining lithium prices have slowed investments and led to industry-wide consolidations.

The Piedmont-Sayona merger reflects efforts to strengthen operations amid these challenges.

Sayona CEO Lucas Dow emphasized the strategic benefits of the merger, saying, "This merger marks a transformative step… Creating a leading North American lithium producer with

the scale and capabilities to meet the growing demand for lithium products."

Piedmont's diversification strategy, which includes projects in Canada and Ghana, also aligns with industry trends toward geographic risk mitigation. The merger aims to optimize resources, reduce costs, and accelerate development timelines across its portfolio.

For Gaston County, the merger could solidify the area's reputation as a hub for clean energy innovation. The Carolina Lithium Project, paired with a stronger parent company, could attract further investments and elevate the region's profile in the global supply chain.

Charlotte-based Albemarle, a competitor, is also developing mining operations in nearby Kings Mountain.

The merger also aligns with broader goals of U.S. energy independence and transportation electrification. By producing more lithium hydroxide domestically, the U.S. may reduce its

reliance on foreign suppliers.

Once merged, the new Sayona-Piedmont Lithium company plans to scale operations through three definitive feasibility study (DFS) projects and a brownfield expansion opportunity in Quebec. This growth potential could stabilize the company during market fluctuations, ensuring sustained contributions to local and national economies.

Upon completion, Lucas Dow will serve as CEO and Managing Director of the merged entity, while Keith Phillips will transition to a strategic advisory role. The board will include eight directors, split evenly between Piedmont and Sayona appointees. Independent directors will lead critical committees, ensuring compliance and oversight.

The merged company will focus on integrating its operations seamlessly while maintaining a commitment to stakeholder engagement. Both companies' boards of directors have unanimously approved the

merger. As the merger progresses, its success will hinge on community engagement, market recovery, and efficient resource integration. For Gaston County, the stakes are high. The Carolina Lithium Project represents economic potential and a test of balancing industrial growth with environmental stewardship. The combined entity's ability to navigate these challenges will shape its legacy as a leader in the lithium industry. Phillips expressed optimism, stating, "We are positioning ourselves for the recovery in lithium markets that we expect in the medium term." Residents and officials will watch closely as the merger unfolds, hoping it brings sustainable growth to Gaston County and beyond. For more information, follow us on Twitter @PiedmontLithium and visit https://www. piedmontlithium.com or https:// sayonamining.com.au/.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Kings Mountain

By Loretta Cozart

As merchants prepare for Shop Small Business Saturday and the holiday shopping, dining, and festivities the Christmas season brings, it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Kings Mountain!

Last week, the vibrant spirit of the holiday season was beautifully showcased in our downtown area! City workers hung colorful banners and strung delightful garlands on the Overhead Bridge, lamp posts, and throughout the heart of our community, including City Hall. Their hard work truly puts our city's best foot forward, welcoming everyone to join in the festive events planned this season.

Thanks to funding from KM Forward, the alleyway planters on Battleground Avenue have been transformed into a warm and inviting space for visitors. The planters have been reimagined, keeping the gorgeous hostas and purple hearts, all divided and replanted for lush growth

next year. Additional arborvitae, shrubs, and cheerful pansies have been added and beautifully mulched, creating a delightful oasis in the downtown area.

Stop by to see the enchanting new lighting that spans the alleyway between Jimbo Thompson’s and Gregg Johnson’s buildings! These twinkling lights will stay in place throughout the year, adding an inviting glow that brightens the entire area.

Our local merchants are also in the holiday spirit, adorning their storefronts and interiors to create a warm welcome for shoppers this season, just in time for new merchandise arrivals!

It’s a magical time to celebrate Christmas in Kings Mountain, and our local shopkeepers, restaurants, and service providers are grateful for your support. So, why not join your neighbors and prioritize shopping locally this holiday season and beyond? We can’t wait to see you around town!

Santa welcomes you to The Social House by Royal T.

Photos by Loretta Cozart Mountain Street decorated.

Trackside Trader get their decorations ready.

The lighted alleyway as seen from Railroad Avenue.

Letters to Santa mailbox at The Sweet Station.

Santa peeking out of Crave’s Window.

The Imperial Mercantile is warm and cozy.

One of KM’s newest downtown businesses decorates for the holiday season.

The window at The Wild Cholla.

Mountaineers fall to Robinson, end season with a 9-3 record

J.M. Robinson scored on its opening possession and rolled to a 41-14 victory over Kings Mountain in the second round of the state 3A playoffs Friday night at Robinson.

The loss ended Kings Mountain’s season with a 9-3 record. The Mountaineers were Big South 3A Conference co-champions with the South Point Red Raiders who also fell out of

the playoffs last week with their second loss of the year to Gastonia Ashbrook.

Robinson returned a fumble for another TD to go up 13-0 after the first period, then scored again twice more in the second quarter for a 27-0 halftime lead.

The Mountaineers got a touchdown reception by Tex Vaughn to cut the margin to 27-7 with just over a minute

left in the third period.

Eli Lipscomb caught a TD pass for a 22-yard TD to cut the margin to 27-14 but Robinson scored twice more to put the win in the bag.

Robinson advances against a powerful Greensboro Dudley team this week. Ashbrook and Crest will continue as the only BSC teams still in the running for a state crown.

80% of consumers report losing money to online shopping scams

With more than $240 billion in U.S. online sales and almost $15 billion in holiday retail expected in Canada, scammers are ready to pounce on unsuspecting shoppers across North America by using fake advertisements to offer deep discounts and hard-to-find popular items.

Since the Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) International Investigations Initiative issued the 2021 study, Theft on a Massive Scale: Online Shopping Fraud and the Role of Social Media, fraudsters continue trickling consumers into buying from fake or misleading online advertisements. Reports are up over 125% from last year, partly driven by items popular on social media, such as beauty products and viral sensations.

Online purchase scam reports to BBB Scam Tracker show consumers are incredibly likely to lose money when confronted with shopping fraud. In reports to BBB in 2023, over 80% of consumers said they lost money when encountering an online shopping scam.

In 2023, nearly 30,000 consumer reports of online purchase fraud were collected, with a median loss of $73 for each offense. This rate doubles the 13,411 reports the bureau received the year before. The trend continued for the first half of 2024, with over 19,000 online purchase fraud events recorded through the end of June.

While an individual's loss in an online purchase scam is often lower than that in other more costly scams, such as investment fraud, the sum of all losses totals nearly $400 million, according to 376,830 reports received in 2023 by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel data includes undisclosed costs, failure to deliver on time, non-delivery, refusal to honor a guarantee on online purchases, internet auctions, and businesses trying to prevent people from giving honest reviews about products or services they purchase.

Scam Tracker figures exceed last year's estimates from a BBB update to its online purchase study. Worse, the cases reported are likely a vast undercount, as one study using FTC data determined that only 4.8% of victims of mass market fraud ever report it to the BBB or a government entity.

While many scams target a specific age group, BBB Scam Tracker data shows that nearly all online shoppers of any age are at risk. According to the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, fraud perpetrated online now accounts for almost 70% of all reports. BBB urges extra caution when dealing with unknown sellers online since these scams are more likely to result in monetary loss than in-person or phone scams.

Tip 1: Research any online retailer before making a

purchase.

When searching online for hockey equipment, Krisha in Mililani, Hawaii, told the BBB she found a website offering brand-name gear at a deep discount. The tracking for the package said it would ship from China to an address in Washington state, not Hawaii, even though Krisha entered her address correctly on the order. When she tried to contact the seller, Krisha found no contact information on the website. She received nothing and never heard from the scammers again.

Online purchase scam tactics have remained unchanged since the 2021 BBB study and 2022 update. Online retail fraud continues to entice shoppers with hard-to-find items and promises of low prices and easy delivery, often on social media.

In 2024, reports to BBB showed scammers continuing to use social media to find targets, with the majority of reports that year originating on social media, particularly on Facebook.

Tip 2: Be skeptical of some social media ads.

For example, in a Facebook group for beekeeping, Dylan in Richmond, Indiana, told the BBB he encountered a business claiming to sell honeybees.

When he attempted to order from the group's website, the scammer instructed him to pay through PayPal using the "friends and family" option, which Dylan didn't realize removed some of PayPal's buyer protections.

TikTok and has become an increasingly hot ticket item over the last few years. It isn't the only viral "musthave" scammers latched onto. In the same timeframe, BBB received nearly 490 reports about the popular shoe brand HOKA One One, which rose to popularity online and has been profiled in national publications like the New York Times.

Tip 4: Beware of "too good to be true" prices.

In March, Irineo, in Sacramento, California, told the BBB he had found a sale listing three pairs of HOKAs for $99 on Facebook. With one pair of shoes often retailing for over $100, he believed he had found a great deal. Once Irineo placed his order, he received a legitimate-looking tracking number but was surprised to see the origin of the China shipping. The tracking number was updated with movement during the 12-week delivery timeframe, but Irineo never received it or a refund once

the package supposedly arrived in the United States.

Nearly every report to BBB about fake HOKA shoe sales originated on social media. Some fraudsters imitate authentic sporting goods stores or retailers, while others pretend to be little-known outfits. Low prices hooked most consumers, many losing nearly $100.

Christian Beckner, vice president of retail technology and cybersecurity with the National Retail Federation, says look-alike scam websites that spoof wellknown sellers and their products trick consumers.

Website hosting companies attempt to take down scam websites, but it is

The scammer provided a fake tracking number but disappeared after sending it, and no honeybees arrived.

Tip 3: Scammers target viral ads on social media.

Social media is a hotbed of viral items, where influencers and regular users interact and talk about recent purchases, what they enjoy about them, and why it might be worth it for others to make a similar purchase.

Scammers pay attention to viral products, watch for hot items, and create fake listings to entice consumers. Their fake advertisements may offer items at a deep discount or promise buyers the opportunity to track down hard-to-find items. With these items slated for many holiday wish lists, scammers are ready to pounce.

Lauren, who is in Reading, Massachusetts, told the BBB that a friend shared an ad on social media for heavily discounted tumblers. Lauren purchased three for $34.99, less than the price for one of the popular insulated cups at most retailers. Lauren was skeptical, and when she received an unprofessional confirmation email, she realized something was wrong. She reached out for a refund but never heard back from anyone.

BBB received 70 reports for the Stanley Tumbler since 2021, which was popularized on social media sites such as Instagram and

more of a "whack-a-mole" effort, Beckner told the BBB. Scammers know how to target online shopping behaviors, and their fake sites are becoming more realistic.

A few years ago, you would see some of these sites, which were so obviously fake," he said. "It is getting harder and harder."

Scammers impersonate popular beauty brands.

Beauty product sales have risen rapidly over the last several years, outpacing many other retail sales categories. In just the first half of 2024, at least one estimate showed over $15 billion in sales related to beauty products.

Popular brands drove

many of those sales, and social media helped drive the hype. Over 280 reports to BBB Scam Tracker since 2020 mentioned "makeup" alone, and many consumers reported poor experiences when attempting to purchase popular products online.

Biancah, in Toronto, Ontario, told the BBB she ordered a product in response to an online ad for a product popularized on TikTok. She was told it would take up to six weeks to arrive, which troubled her. When she contacted the website, they reassured her they were legitimate, so she waited. When six weeks extended

See SCAM, Page 3B

Carter Roberts has signed to play baseball with North Carolina A&T. Pictured front row L-R: Mandy Roberts (mother), Carter Roberts, Rickson Roberts (father). Back row L-R: Trey Robinson (Asst. Principal), Wil Sellers (KM Coach), Hudson Roberts (brother) and Matt Bridges (Athletic Director).

Pinnacle Classical Academy excels on state tests

According to data released by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, Pinnacle Classical Academy's proficiency rate on required state tests exceeded that of all 115 of the state's K-12 local school districts for the fourth year in a row.

72.7% of Pinnacle Classical Academy students attained a score of grade-level proficient on the end-of-grade and endof-course tests in 2023-24 -- a rate much higher than

the state average of 54.2% and higher even than that of top-ranked district Chapel Hill-Carborro's 69.8% Economically disadvantaged students at Pinnacle Classical Academy were much more likely to attain a proficient score than students across the state (65.5% vs. 40.9%), as were black students (65.9% vs. 37.9%) and Hispanic students (71.1% vs. 42.1%).

"Our students' success on state tests is a tribute to the hard work of our teach-

ers and the phenomenal support of our parents," said Dr. Shelly Shope, the school's headmaster. "Our motto is 'Dare To Soar,' and these results show that students of different ages and backgrounds soar at Pinnacle."

Pinnacle Classical Academy is a tuition-free K-12 public charter school located in Shelby. U.S. News & World Report ranks it among the top elementary, middle, and high schools in the nation.

Girl sells lemonade to raise money in memory

of her Grandfather

Caroline Etters, a sixthgrade student at Kings Mountain Intermediate School, wanted a way to remember her grandfather, and give back to VIA Health Partners, founded as Hospice Cleveland County, who helped care for him in his final days. With the help of her friend Caroline Ruffalo, the two decided to sell lemonade at the Kings Mountain Country Club Member Guest Golf Tournament on September 7, 2024, where her grandfather, Stoney Jackson, loved to play golf.

Caroline’s sister, Hadleigh Etters, and her cousin Zoey Etters, also helped sell lemonade at the event and raised $300 for VIA Health Partners. In addition to her grandfather, the organization also served two of Caroline’s uncles, Don and Elbert Oliver, as well as her other grandfather, Zeb Etters. “It was our honor to help such a great organization who has been there for our family many times when we needed them,” said Sandy Etters, Caroline’s grandmother.

Lemonade stand at the event. (Photos provided)

Pam Sharts, Marketing, PR, and Special Events Manager for VIA Health Partners accepted the check. “These sweet little angels worked so hard and were excited to

SCAM

From Page 2B to 18 weeks, Biancah realized she had been scammed out of $75.

Tip 5: Check delivery windows before ordering.

While scammers pretend to be independent sellers in cases like Biancah, others falsely claim to sell popular brands, such as MAC, e.l.f., and Charlotte Tilbury, which were all mentioned in dozens of Scam Tracker reports to BBB.

Buyers looking to save money look for similar but cheaper versions of popular items called "dupes" (short for duplicates). While people often intentionally purchase these items, those looking for legitimate products should be careful

to avoid fakes. Ashley, in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, told BBB she thought she was buying BrookBurg &Co. products from a secondary seller. The man she talked to said he was a small business owner hoping to eventually open a brick-and-mortar store.

When Ashley's items arrived, she saw makeup wipes, mascara, and bronzer, which she had ordered, but they were from a completely different company and were worth significantly less.

Tip 6: Counterfeit goods often fail to meet quality and safety standards. These items can be hazardous with cosmetics, which may contain harmful materials. Unique pets for holiday gifts could spell trouble.

Scams involving dogs and cats remain the most common pet scams re-

Retiree’s gift supports Radiography Program

On Thursda y, October 31, 2024, Dr. Jason Hurst, CCC’s president, announced the naming of the Jo Ann Schilling Radiography Program. “Ensuring that our community has enough healthcare workers in every discipline is so important to the health of our community,” said Hurst. “That’s why the generosity of donors like Jo is so important. They help us provide our students with the best possible training.”

In addition, Hurst announced that Schilling has also pledged an estate gift that will continue to support the Radiography Program’s students and faculty in perpetuity. Schilling came to what was then the Cleveland County Technical Institute as the department head of the Radiologic Technology Program in 1977 after working in the field as a technician for 16 years and teaching for five years at another college. She spent the next 22 years training students and helping strengthen CCC’s Radiography Program.

During the program’s early years, there were only about 10 students per class; today, there are 50. The program has also expanded, adding certificates in MRI and CT and most recently, through a partnership with Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, medical sonography. “I’ve heard that Jo tried to bring sonography into the program when she was the department head, but the College didn’t have the resources. That’s exactly why we value donors and supporters like Jo,” said Hurst. The event honoring Schilling was attended by past and present faculty and staff, several of Schilling’s former students, and

bring us their check,” said Sharts. “It is community support such as this that enables us to provide excellent care and support to patients and their families during the most difficult time regardless of ability to pay”.

VIA Health Partners offers hospice and palliative services spanning 35 counties across North and South Carolina. The VIA Health Partners Cleveland County office serves as the hub of the Western Region which includes Caldwell, Burke,

ported to BBB. However, anyone looking for more unusual animals this holiday season should also be alert for scammers.

Over 200 reports to BBB since early 2021 show the sale of bogus birds, hedgehogs, lizards, and even sugar gliders. Because these types of pets are harder to find, scammers can target those searching online for them, pretending to be expert breeders.

Tip 7: Research and check reviews before buying an exotic pet.

Online purchasing scam red flags:

• The items are offered at a deep discount.

• The deal is too good to be true.

• Popular items sold by unknown retailers.

• The seller asks for payment through a pay-

ment app.

• Unprofessional web pages.

• Long shipping windows.

Tips to avoid online purchase scams:

• Research a seller before purchasing.

• Compare a trusted retailer's prices and shipping windows.

• Don't trust a social media advertisement outright.

• Be extra alert when buying a viral item.

• Avoid sales offering multiple items for the price of one.

• Use a credit card. Visit BBB.org to check out a business or register a complaint, BBB Scam Tracker at BBB.org/ scamtracker, to report a scam, and BBB.org/scamstudies for more on this and other scams.

McDowell, Rutherford, and Polk counties. About VIA Health Partners: VIA Health Partners began as Hospice at Charlotte, the state’s first hospice, and was incorporated in 1978. Later, Hospice at Charlotte operated under the name Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region (HPCCR) for decades before changing its name

how she and one of her students, Lee Ann

now the program’s

ously. “I was the instructor; she was the student, and she bested me by three points!” said Schilling.

change to VIA Health Partners in 2023. In Fall 2020, Hospice Cleveland County and HPCCR merged. Today, VIA Health Partners serves over 4,000 patients on any given day across 38 counties in both North and South Carolina. For more information, visit VIAhp.org.

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION In the Matter of the Estate of: Victoria M. Canipe 24 E 607

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Victoria M Canipe of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Victoria M Canipe to present them to the undersigned by February 27, 2025, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 27th day of November, 2024.

Susan C. Greer PO Box 38 Earl, NC 28038 Executor of the Estate of Victoria M Canipe

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A. Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204 KMH (11/27, 12/4, 12/11 & 12/18/24)

friends. Schilling spoke briefly, telling a story about

Mayse,

clinical coordinator, took the mammography exam simultane-

Ms. Schilling with the new sign honoring her.

Ms. Schilling with her former student Lee Ann Mayse, who now serves as the program’s clinical coordinator, taking a tour of the Radiography Program area.

VIA Health Partners Staff Pam Sharts with girls – L to R (back row): Pam Sharts, Caroline Etter, (front row) Zoey Etters, Hadleigh Etters.

New DOT airline rule takes effect requires automatic refunds for canceled flights

A new Department of Transportation (DOT) rule mandates that airlines automatically refund customers for last-minute cancellations, major delays, and other service disruptions. The rule, which took effect last week, simplifies the refund process and significantly strengthens passenger protections when airlines cancel flights or change schedules.

"Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them—without headaches or haggling," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. "Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines

to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers."

The new regulation outlines specific circumstances that qualify travelers for refunds, creating a uniform standard across airlines. Previously, each airline had its own policies for issuing refunds, leading to inconsistencies that left many passengers unsure of their rights. The DOT also noted that some airlines had shifted to less consumer-friendly policies during recent periods of high flight cancellations, leaving passengers in limbo. Under the DOT rule, travelers are now eligible for refunds in the following sit-

PUBLIC NOTICE

EXECUTRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on 14th of November 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Janice Onetta Harrison (24 E 914) 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 Jennifer Gaye Harrison a/k/a Jennifer Bedford, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 27, 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 27th day of November, 2024.

Jennifer Gaye Harrison a/k/a

Jennifer Bedford

Executrix of the Estate of Janice Onetta Harrison

c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/27; 12/04,11,18/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

EXECUTRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on 15th of November 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Eddie Leroy Bridges, Jr. (24 E 757) 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 Christina Miller Haynes, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 27, 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 27th day of November, 2024.

Christina Miller Haynes Executrix of the Estate of Eddie Leroy Bridges, Jr. c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/27, 12/04, 11 & 12/18/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 13th of November, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of PATRICIA RUSSELL (24 E 863), 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, Guy Scott Russell, Executor on or before the 20th of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Guy Scott Russell, Executor

Estate of Patricia Russell 525 Coman Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (11/20, 27, 12/04 &11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th of November, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of MADGE ETHEL BLANTON LEDBETTER (24 E 897), 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, Bonita L. Curtiss, Executrix on or before the 20th of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Bonita L. Curtiss, Executrix

Estate of Madge Ethel Blanton Ledbetter

1008 S. Patterson Rd Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (11/20, 27, 12/04 &11/2024)

uations:

• Flight Cancellations and Significant Changes: Passengers can receive a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly altered and they decline alternative travel options or credits. “Significant changes” are defined as domestic delays over three hours, international delays over six hours, departures or arrivals from different airports, increased number of connections, downgrades in class, or substitutions with less accessible planes for passengers with disabilities.

• Delayed Baggage: Refunds for baggage fees are due if checked luggage

is delayed over 12 hours for domestic flights or between 15-30 hours for international flights, depending on the trip length.

• Failure to Deliver Extra Services: If an airline does not provide an extra service paid for by a passenger— such as Wi-Fi, seat selection, or in-flight entertainment— the customer is entitled to a refund of that fee.

The DOT’s new rule also aims to streamline the refund process itself. Previously, passengers often navigated complex processes to request a refund, fill out online forms, or spend hours on customer service calls. Air-

PUBLIC NOTICE

EXECUTRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on 12th of November 2024 as Execu-

trix of the Estate of Patsy Taylor Carpenter (24 E 900) 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 Donna Faye Carpenter Haskett, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 27, 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 27th day of November, 2024.

Donna Faye Carpenter Haskett Executrix of the Estate of Patsy Taylor Carpenter c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/27, 12/04, 11 & 12/18/2024)

PUBLIC

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th of August, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of EDITH MARIE HUDSON WORTMAN; AKA, EDITH M. WORTMAN (24 E 629), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, James Howard Wortman; aka, James H. Wortman, Executor on or before the 20th of February, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of to their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 20th day of November, 2024.

James Howard Wortman; aka, James H. Wortman, Executor Estate of Edith Marie Hudson Wortman; aka, Edith M. Wortman

5227 Fallston Rd Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (11/20, 11/27, 12/4 & 12/11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of November, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of BARBARA ANNE ADAMS (24 E 349), 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, Jerry Adams, Administrator on or before the 13th of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Jerry Adams, Administrator

Estate of Barbara Anne Adams 121 Gate Wood Drive Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of November, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of FRANK NELSON BROCK; AKA, FRANK N. BROCK (24 E 887), 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, Judith Mackenzie Brock; aka, Judith M. Brock, Executrix on or before the 13th of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Judith Mackenzie Brock; aka, Judith M. Brock, Executrix

Estate of Frank Nelson Brock; aka, Frank N. Brock

2216 Holly Ln. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

lines commonly issued travel credits or vouchers instead of cash refunds by default, limiting passengers’ ability to rebook with a different airline. Now, airlines must provide refunds automatically and in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card, or airline miles, unless passengers choose another option. The rule sets strict refund timelines: Airlines and ticket agents must issue refunds within seven business days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payment methods. Refunds must include the full ticket price plus any government

and airline fees, minus any used portion of the ticket. Additionally, airlines must notify passengers promptly about their rights to a refund when a flight is canceled or significantly altered. In cases where passengers cannot travel due to government-imposed restrictions or medical advice relating to a serious communicable disease, airlines must offer transferable travel vouchers or credits. These credits must be valid for at least five years, providing travelers additional flexibility during health crises. Passengers may need to provide

See DOT, Page 5B

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th of November, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of GLENDA ANN WOLFE (24 E 895), 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, Mark Dunn Mitchell, Executor on or before the 20th of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Mark Dunn Mitchell, Executor Estate of Glenda Ann Wolfe 1313 Queen Anne Rd NW Wilson, NC 27896

KMH (11/20, 27, 12/04 &11/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 7th of November, 2024 as Executor of the Estate of MARY AURELIA LUCAS (24 E 881), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, William Randall Bowen, Executor on or before the 13th of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

William Randall Bowen, Executor Estate of Mary Aurelia Lucas 1109 Shamrock Road Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 24th of October, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of LUCY JOHNSON VINSON (24 E 855), 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, Revonda Vinson Howard, Administratrix, on or before the 6th of February, 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 6th of November, 2024.

Revonda Vinson Howard, Administratrix

Estate of Lucy Johnson Vinson 2867 Toney Rd Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (11/06, 13, 20 & 27/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK In the Matter of the Estate of: JUDITH H. WHITAKER aka JUDITH HOYLE WHITAKER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

The undersigned, having qualified as Executrix of the estate of Judith H. Whitaker aka Judith Hoyle Whitaker, deceased, late of Cleveland County, hereby notifies all persons having claims against this estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 6th Day of February 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to this estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th Day of November, 2024.

Trina Angel, Executrix 719 Sugarhill Road Lawndale, NC 28090

KMH (11/6, 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/2024)

FDA may block popular ingredient in OTC nasal decongestant

On November 7, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it is proposing to remove oral Phenylephrine as an active ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) monograph drug products for the temporary relief of nasal congestion after an agency review of the available data determined that it is not effective for this use.

For now, companies may continue to market OTC monograph drug products containing oral Phenylephrine as nasal decongestants. Removing these products is simply a proposed order for now. Only a final order will affect what products may be sold. The proposed order is based on effectiveness concerns, not safety concerns.

This announcement comes at the beginning of what is traditionally considered to be cold and flu season. Oral Phenylephrine is widely used as a nasal decongestant active ingredient in many OTC monograph drug products. Some products only contain oral Phenylephrine as its single active ingredient. Other products contain oral Phenyl-

ephrine and another active ingredient (e.g., acetaminophen or dextromethorphan), and the presence of oral Phenylephrine in these medicines does not affect how other active ingredients work to treat the symptoms for which they are intended.

“It is the FDA’s role to ensure that drugs are safe and effective,” said Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). “Based on our review of available data, and consistent with the advice of the advisory committee, we are taking this next step in the process to propose removing oral phenylephrine because it is not effective as a nasal decongestant.”

The agency conducted a comprehensive review of all available data on the safety and efficacy of oral Phenylephrine, including the historical data that were used to support the determination made 30 years ago that oral Phenylephrine was effective as a nasal decongestant, as well as newer clinical data on oral Phenylephrine that have

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 23rd of October 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Elsie Audrey Foster (24 E 635), 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 Cheryl Foster Willson, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 13, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Cheryl Foster Willson Administratrix of the Estate of Elsie Audrey Foster c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 5th of November 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Jaime Brackett Gipson (24 E 882), 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 Amber Ross, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 13, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Amber Ross Administratrix of the Estate of Jaime Brackett Gipson

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: CHRISTOPHER ROY HELMS, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 6th of November, 2024 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Christopher Roy Helms deceased, late of Cleveland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Co-Administrators on or before the 15th day of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Julie Beeson, Co-Admin 4827 Barrett Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Karen Hollingsworth, Co-Admin. 1389 Edwards’ Cove Road Waynesville, NC 28786

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

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

KMH (11/13, 11/20, 11/27 & 12/4/24)

since become available.

Last fall, the FDA also held a Nonprescription Drug Advisory Committee meeting to discuss the ‘Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective’ (GRASE) status of oral Phenylephrine as a nasal decongestant. The committee discussed new data on the effectiveness of orally administered Phenylephrine. It unanimously concluded that the current scientific data do not support the recommended dosage in the OTC cold, cough, allergy, bronchodilator, and antiasthmatic drug products monograph for orally administered Phenylephrine’s effectiveness as a nasal decongestant.

“Consumers should know that a range of safe and ef-

DOT

From Page 4B

documentation supporting their inability to travel.

The DOT is pursuing further rule changes to protect consumers. Proposed measures include:

• Eliminating Family Seating Fees: The DOT is pushing for a ban on addi-

fective drugs and other treatments is available to temporarily relieve congestion symptoms due to allergies or a common cold,” said Theresa Michele, M.D., director of the Office of Nonprescription Drug Products in CDER. “Consumers can also talk to their doctor or pharmacist about ways to treat these symptoms.”

Because various drug products may be sold under the same brand name, consumers should always read the Drug Facts label to determine which ingredients are in the medication and be aware of important warnings and directions for the product’s use.

It is important to note that Phenylephrine is also an ingredient in nasal sprays to

tional fees for parents to sit with their children. Four airlines now offer fee-free family seating, but the DOT aims to make this a universal standard.

• Enhanced Passenger Compensation for Delays and Cancellations: New regulations could require airlines to provide mandatory compensation and accommodation for delays and cancellations.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 25th of October 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Tommie Steward Feaster (21 E 47), 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 Phyllis Feaster, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before February 13, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Phyllis Feaster Administratrix of the Estate of Tommie Steward Feaster c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

PUBLIC

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 30th of October, 2024 as Administrator of the Estate of WILLIAM CLEMOUTH CHANEY (24 E 872), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, James Robert Barnes, Jr., Administrator on or before the 13th of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

James Robert Barnes, Jr., Administrator Estate of Willaim Clemouth Chaney 134 Spencer Woods Drive Dallas, NC 28034

Counseled by: McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/13, 20, 27 & 12/04/2024)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24 E 838

Having qualified as Administrator of the ESTATE OF JAMES CURTIS ALLEN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said James Curtis Allen to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, William Lane Allen, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 6th day of February 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 6th day of November 2024.

William Lane Allen, Administrator of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150.

KMH (11/6, 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/24)

treat congestion. The FDA’s new action is only related to orally administered Phenylephrine, not the nasal spray form.

The FDA is seeking public comments on this proposed order. Instructions on how to submit comments may be obtained by emailing Monographs@FDA. If, after considering the comments, the FDA concludes oral Phenylephrine is not effective as a nasal decongestant, the FDA will issue a final order removing oral Phenylephrine from the OTC monograph, and drug products after that could no longer contain oral Phenylephrine as a nasal decongestant. The FDA would provide manufacturers with appropriate time to either reformulate drugs containing oral Phenylephrine or remove such medicines from the market.

• Expanded Rights for Wheelchair Users: The DOT also plans to increase protection for passengers who use wheelchairs, ensuring they can travel safely and comfortably.

The final refund rule is available on the DOT’s website (https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/ latest-news) and Regulations.gov (docket number DOT-OST-2022-0089).

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines, and other biological products for human use and medical devices. The agency is also responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and regulating tobacco products.

Various components of the rule will take effect over the next year, with airlines required to provide automatic refunds within six months and transferable travel vouchers within 12 months for health-related travel restrictions. For additional information on passenger rights and DOT policies, visit https:// www.transportation.gov/airconsumer.

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: BESSIE MAE BRISCOE, Deceased. 24 E 888

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Bessie Mae Briscoe, deceased, late of Cleveland County, hereby notifies all persons having claims against this estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 13th Day of February 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to this estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 13th Day of November, 2024.

Leroy DeWitt Briscoe 1907 Vernon Rd. Kingstown, NC 28150

KMH (11/13, 11/20, 11/27 & 12/4/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administratrix over the Estate of MARY JANE BELL; AKA, MARY J. BELL; AKA, MARY ALLEN BELL ( 24 E 810), 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 the 20th of February, 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 settlement with the undersigned estate administratrix.

This the 20th day of November, 2024.

Wanda Bridges, Administratrix c/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law 233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/20, 27, 12/04 &11/2024)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24 E 885

Having qualified as Administratrix of the ESTATE OF CAROLYN JENNIS SHORT aka CAROLYN S. SHORT aka CAROL STONE SHORT, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said CAROLYN JENNIS SHORT aka CAROLYN S. SHORT aka CAROL STONE SHORT to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Dora M. Turner, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 20th day of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Dora M. Turner, Administratrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/20, 11/27, 12/04 & 12/11/ 2024)

EMPLOYMENT

HIRING. PERSON 1ST LLC IS hiring for Direct Support Professional/Community Living and Support. 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! Please contact Eddie Scruggs, Executive Director for further details. 704692-6974. (704) 692-6974

BUSINESS SERVICES

HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097

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

HOME REMODELING AND HANDYMAN. Interior and exterior remodeling. Call today for your free estimate! (828) 244-7087

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE DOORS. Summer Tuneup Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704472-9367.

ABLE TO TRANSPORT FURNITURE, APPLIANCES, building supplies, ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, kayaks, canoes & more. Local or long distance. GPS & cameras in use. Park at dark. Contracts welcome. 828-2896221.

SALTZ HANDY SERVICES. We clean houses & garages, haul off unwanted items, pressure washing, mowing, lawn care, leaf clean up, light landscaping, debris clean up. Light tractor & trackhoe work & more. Free estimates. 828-556-0580 or 828226-9878.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. No job too small. Have references. Construction, landscaping, etc. Jack of all trades! 40 plus years of experience. 828-375-5773.

PAINTING, ROOFING, TILE FLOORS, wood decks, fences & carpentry work. Free estimates. Now is the time to paint outside! Ask for Harold or Jim 828-429-7511.

AUCTIONS

WINTER CONSIGNMENT AUC-

TION. Winter Consignment Auction - Onsite and Online. Saturday, December 7th, 2024 - 10 am. Preview: Friday, Dec. 6th, 2024, 10 am till 6 pm. Location: 12462 NC Hwy 209, Hot Springs, NC 28743; www.ej-auction.com; Partial Listing: 2018 Big Tex Trailer, Trucks, Tractors, Air Compressors, Generators, 5000 lb. Lift, Aluminum Fuel Tanks, Chain Link Gates, Bolt Bins, Metal Shelves, Safety Roll Around Ladder, Rotary Mower, Farm King Finish Mower, Railroad Crossing Sign, Steel and Rebar and more! EDWARD

JOHNSON AUCTIONEERS, INC. NC8134 NC8496 (828) 593-9649

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

FOR SALE

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

UNCUT BODY OILS, SWEAT

SUITS. CALL FOR PRICE. (704) 492-8819 BODYOILDON@ GMAIL.COM

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD Small stove wood. Cash only. Mix hardwood. 15’’ and shorter. Lots of 14’’ and 15’’ lengths. Delivered. $85. 828-395-0758.

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

NIKE SWEATSUITS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS. WHOLESALE OR RETAIL. 704-492-8819. (704) 492-8819 bodyoildon@ gmail.com

METAL ROOFING FOR SALE

INSTOCK! Deliveries Twice A Week. One Piece or the Whole Roof. J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 245-5895

FIREWOOD Seasoned 90% Oak. All hardwood, 70 1/2 ton/1 1/4 cord, small bundle packs-$3 ea. Deliver charge-$15. 312 Helton Rd., Cherryville. 704-4353970.

MORGAN’S FIREWOOD: ALL CHERRY WOOD cut 16’’ to 18’’ long. Split & delivered. $85. Cash only. 828-395-0758.

HARDWOOD FIREWOOD DELIVERED. 1-1/2 ton hardwood firewood delivered on a dump trailer within 20 miles of Lattimore $200. Can deliver farther for extra. You can pick up on your pick-up $50 for short bed, $65 long bed. Larger trucks call for price. Campfire bundles also available. (704) 434-6865 smpc1@bellsouth.net

GUNS & BLACKSTONE FOR SALE. Ruger LCP II 22 LR Pistol $400 firm. Taurus G3C 9mm pistol 3 clips $450 firm. Blackstone Grill 18’’x29’’ cooking surface, 33” tall. $100. (980) 341-9332

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! Press Room Printing. 704-482-2243. (704) 538-5788

DOWNSIZING, THE COLUMNS IN SHELBY. Large, formal Broyhill dining table w/3 leaves, 8 chairs. Gloss finish- solid wood blend of light, soft brown/black. 8 upholstered chairs w/white, blue, peach color. $800. Appt. only. Serious inquiry. 704-284-7043. Leave message, will return call.

LARGE WOOD STOVE, HEAVY

DUTY. Excellent condition, with two blowers and thermostat. Aprox. 34”wx23”dx32”h. Asking $550 obo. Pictures available. 864-219-8690

ITEMS FOR SALE Stainer Fiddle. Over $100 yrs. old- $500. DR Chipper Shredder -$1,800. Call 828-748-3366.

FOR SALE

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

REMININGTON AUTOMATIC RIFLE FOR SALE 30-6 with scope and ammo. Excellent condition. $895. 704-487-9119.

BLACK CHERRY LOGS UNSEASONED Best Offer! Assorted lengths (up to10’). About 1/2 cord. Must see. (828) 803-2708

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Large On Site Display”. Concrete Pads, Grading, Plumbing, Electrical. “One Stop Shop For All !” J. Johnson Sales, inc. Forest City, 2690 Hwy. 221 South. (828) 2455895

CARPORTS, GARAGES, BOAT, RV COVER HAY BARNS, Etc. “Check Out Our Price Before You Buy... There Is Difference!” J. Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 Hwy. 221 South, Forest City. (828) 245-5895

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

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

WERNER 16 FT. ALUMINUM EXTENSION ladder, brand new. Lowes price $179+tax. My price $85. New bench-top table saw. New Metabo air nail

Lafayette St. Shelby, NC 704-600-6996 or 980-295-5568

2 GE COOK STOVES LIKE NEW. 1 black, 1 white. $300 each. 864-805-0343, 704-4069413

CONTENTS IN 4 BUILDINGS.

finish. Dimensions are 52” wide & 30” high. Sale for $30.00. Will deliver locally for additional fee. (704) 692-4765 wilcurb@aol.com

contracting contracts for various trades. On the job training will be provided to the right candidate if necessary. If interested, please contact Alex Gronau at agronau@wodagroup.com or by mail at 1465 W. Academy Street Cherryville, North Carolina 28021 United States (912) 312-2442 agronau@wodagroup.com

INDOOR YARD SALE. Every Monday - Saturday, 9am-6pm. 4120 Kings Mtn Hwy, Bessemer City on Hwy 74. 704-616-4827 NATURALLY UNIQUE ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES. Presents an Estate Tag Sale. Thurs., Dec. 5, 2 pm-6pm; Fri., Dec. 6, 2pm-6pm; Sat., Dec 7, 12pm - 2pm at 602 Charles Rd., Shelby, NC 28152.

FOR SALE

USED REGULATION POOL TABLE. Includes balls, sticks & rack, walnut finish, leather pockets, 2 slates. $300. 828-6575568.

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

Auctions WATERFRONT PROPERTIES - AUCTION, 181.5+/-ACRES Craven County, NC. Offered in 16 Tracts. Selling Divided & In Combinations. On Adams Creek, Godfrey Creek & Delamar Creek. Fifteen, Large, 10+ Acre HomeSites, Plus two-Story House on 4 Acres. Waterfront, OnLine Bidding November 20 thru DECEMBER 3, www. HouseAuctionCompany. com 252-729-1162 NCAL #7889 Auctions RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT AUCTION, Saturday, November 30th @10am. 2116 Skibo Road Fayetteville, NC Tons of Late Model Equipment and Seating. See Website. www. ClassicAuctions.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

TWO STANDARD DONKEYS

One Jenny, One Gelding. $500 for both. Mini Mule $100. 864415-0456.

TOY AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD Male. Blue Merle. Blue Eyes. 9 Weeks Old. Shots & Worming UTD. $500. 704-4186454 or (704) 482-0178

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. Ready for new homes. 2 males. First set of shots and dewormed. $450. each. 704-466-6983.

FREE MIXED PUPPIES. Pit Bull/Border Collie, 3 males, 3 mths. old, wormed. Free to good home. (704) 852-7397

ADORABLE BABIES SHI-

HZHU DESIGNERS. M/F, 2 CKC Registered, reputable experienced breeder raised in our home, 3 parvo shots, Microchip $400-$800 (864) 623-8803 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail.com

LAYING HENS $10 EACH. Or 3 for $25. Ready to start laying. 704-434-6733.

TOY POODLE PUPPIES 1st shots & wormed. CKC registered. $650 each. 704-4665883.

FARM KITTENS. 8 Kittens born July 24, 2024. Friendly, litter box trained, good with kids. Grey Stripped and black. (828) 429-0202 tricklecreekfarm21@ gmail.com

PETS & LIVESTOCK

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES, $500 EACH. 4 girls, 1 boy. 1st shots and wormed. Call or text before 8pm. (704) 418-9244

CARS & TRUCKS

RACE CAR/SHOW CAR.Has a racing engine. $4,000 or best offer. Call for more information 828-748-9698.

1997 FORD F-SUPER DUTY CHASSIS CAB XLT Package. 7.3 Diesel Power Stroke, Removable Pipe Rack. Flat Bed. 146,000 miles, PW, PDL, 5 Speed Manual, $15,500. Call (704) 300-1818

1998 MACK CS200P. Box Truck. Very good condition. 169,000 miles. One Owner. 22 ft. fully dry box with 3000 lb. lift gate. Serviced every 8000 miles. Good heat and air. Fully lined sound reduction cab. Turbo charged, Fuel injected Diesel. Good fuel mileage. $12,500 or OBO. 704-472-1997 leave message. Messages checked daily.

1983 TOYOTA CAMRY. Pay small down payment & take up payment. 864-805-0343, 704406-9413.

1985 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. Automatic Transmission, 145,000 miles. White. Runs Great. Hardtop convertible. $5,000. 704-487-7981.

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: EDWARD CORNELIUS EVERHART, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 23rd day of October, 2024 as Administratrix of the Estate of Edward Cornelius Everhart, deceased, late of Cleveland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administratrix on or before the 8th day of February, 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 6th day of November, 2024.

Cathy Bryant Everhart, Admin.

c/o C. Andrew Neisler, Jr., CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

P.O. Box 515

300 E. King Street

Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (11/6, 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/24)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 5th of November, 2024 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of EDITH M. FORBES (24 E 694), 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, Tina Champion, Co-Administratrix and/or Darrell M. Forbes, Jr., CoAdministrator on or before the 13th of February, 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 13th day of November, 2024.

Tina Champion, Co-Administratrix

Estate of Edith M. Forbes

806 Southridge Dr. Kings Mountain, NC 28086 And/Or

Darrell M. Forbes, Jr., Co-Administrator

Estate of Edith M. Forbes 103 McGinnis Dr. Grover, NC 28073

KMH (11/13, 20 27 & 12/04/2024)

CARS & TRUCKS

2005 CHEVROLET MALIBU

$1500 negotiable. (Needs electric power steering pump). Also need caregiver to take me to doctor. 980-880-7324

2003 FORD SUPER DUTY F-250. Automatic, 7.3 Lite V-8 Engine. Tan Leather Interior. Upgrade Maintenance that included New Turbo and Injectors. Have Service Documents. Pioneer Radio. Only 138,800 miles $25,500 OBO. Call (704) 300-1818 CAMPERS

28 FT. 1984 PACE ARROW $9,895. Set up as a tiny home in a RV park. Must be moved by a flatbed. 828-453-0828.

MOBILE HOMES

1979 14X52 MOBILE HOME OR Storage Building. $500 cash, you move. Or you can rent. 864-805-0343, 704-4069413

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE.

Newly remodeled inside & out. 12X65, 2BR, 1BA. All appliances like new. On rented lot. Very quiet neighborhood, $29,000 Firm. 704-300-5027.

REAL ESTATE POLK COUNTY SUNNYVIEW, NC FOR SALE BY OWNER. Convenient location, 3.62 wooded residential acres. $64,500. 828-4293287.

REAL ESTATE RUTHERFORD COUNTY

LAND FOR SALE, CAMP GROUND on land. Price lowered $160,000 to $150,000. 828-453-0828. 3795-3925 Hollis Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040 FOR RENT CLEVELAND COUNTY 2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, (704) 739-0259

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

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) 4827723 (704) 482-7723 Lions@ RPMMANAGED.COM

107-2 OAK DRIVE, LAWNDALE, NC. DUPLEX, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $925, Deposit $925, App Fee, $25 per adult. 704-214-4180. MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. Weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299

1003-A MARK DR Shelby, NC. Apartment. 2 Bedroom, 1 bathroom. Rent $1075 Deposit $1075 App Fee $25 per adult. 704-214-4180.

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: MARIE P. BURRIS aka MARIE PERRY BURRIS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 8th of November, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Marie P. Burris aka Marie Perry Burris, deceased, late of Cleveland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 22nd day of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Kytrina A. McCluney, Ex. 2861 Wimbledon Drive Gastonia, NC 28056

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

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

KMH (11/20, 11/27, 12/4 & 12/11/24)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24 E 874

Having qualified as Administratrix of the ESTATE OF WILLIAM ALEXANDER McCLAIN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said William Alexander McClain to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jeanette McClain Worthey, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 13th day of February 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 13th day of November 2024.

Jeanette McClain Worthey, Administratrix of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150.

KMH (11/13, 11/20, 11/27 & 12/4/2024)

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

NO HEAT BILLS HERE! 1 Bedroom Apartment, excellent Location in Shelby, second floor, small complex with single occupants. No smoking, pets or HAP. Heat & water included in $700 month rent. Deposit plus references & background check. (704) 487-5480

APARTMENT FOR LEASE KINGS MOUNTAIN. 2 BR 2BA apartment thoughtfully designed for senior living. Ground-level open concept living with impressive finishes. Spacious rooms, wooden blind shutters, walk-in closets, laundry room, walkin shower, modern equipped kitchen with granite counter tops, soft-close cabinetry, pantry, attic storage and private outdoor space. Great location, within walking distance of parks and trails, minutes from downtown, restaurants, shopping and community theater. Over 50 and looking for a

jaybee@carolina. rr.com 113 CLONINGER STREET KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC. HOUSE. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom.

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: FRANK BURRIS aka FRANK WESLEY BURRIS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 8th of November, 2024 as Executrix of the Estate of Frank Burris aka Frank Wesley Burris, deceased, late of Cleveland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 22nd day of February, 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 20th day of November, 2024.

Kytrina A. McCluney, Ex. 2861 Wimbledon Drive Gastonia, NC 28056

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

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

KMH (11/20, 11/27, 12/4 & 12/11/24)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th of October, 2024 as Co-Administrators of the Estate of BARBARA LOUISE FREDELL; AKA, BARBARA FREDELL; AKA, BARBARA F. LEONHARDT (24 E 809), 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, Adam Wesley Cain Leonhardt, Co-Administrator and/or Casey Cleotis Speagle Fredell, Co-Administrator and/ or Brenton S. Begley, McIntyre Elder Law on or before the 6th of February, 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 6th day of November, 2024.

Adam Wesley Cain Leonhardt, Co-Administrator

Estate of Barbara Louise Fredell; aka, Barbara Fredell; aka, Barbara F. Leonhardt 530 Hulls Grove Church Rd Vale, NC 28168

And/or Casey Cleotis Speagle Fredell 6059 Fairview School Rd Vale, NC 28168

c/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/06, 13, 20 & 27/2024)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By JIM MILLER Editor

Best CPAP Alternatives for Sleep Apnea

Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have been trying to use a CPAP device for the past six months but can’t tolerate it. Are there any alternative treatment options you can tell me about?

Sleepy Sam

Dear Sam, I’m sorry to hear your CPAP mask is keeping you awake at night, but I’m happy to hear that you’re addressing your obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) problem. Left untreated, OSA is linked to daytime sleepiness and an increased risk of anxiety, diabetes, hypertension and stroke.

For those whose aren’t familiar, OSA causes your breathing to pause during sleep because something blocks your airway, like your tongue or relaxed throat muscles. Losing weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol can all help ease obstructive sleep apnea symptoms such as snoring.

The primary treatment for people with moderate or severe OSA is a continuous positive airway pressure

(CPAP) machine, which keeps your airway open by pumping air through a mask you wear over your mouth and/or nose when you sleep.

But many people, like yourself, have difficulty tolerating CPAP and don’t stick with it. But CPAP machines have become smaller and quieter, with more comfortable options available. And for some people with mild to moderate OSA, less invasive alternatives to CPAP may be worth considering. Here are several to ask your doctor about.

Dental device: This is designed to move the jaw so that the tongue shifts toward the front of the mouth to help keep the airway open. It’s one of the primary alternatives to CPAP and can also be used with CPAP to help make severe obstructive sleep apnea milder.

A dentist who specializes in sleep medicine (find one at dentalsleep. org) will be able to customize its fit to help your breathing without causing harm to your bite or teeth. These custom-made oral appliances can cost between $2,000 and $4,000 but

may be covered by insurance. There are much cheaper options available online to treat snoring, but experts say these may not help with OSA, and could move teeth out of place or cause jaw issues if they’re not properly fitted.

Position therapy: For some, sleeping on the back can make obstructive sleep apnea dramatically worse. In these cases, switching to side sleeping – perhaps using pillows or a tennis ball attached to a shirt back – can sometimes help.

Tongue trainer: In 2021, the Food and Drug Administration approved a tongue-stimulating device for mild sleep apnea called eXciteOSA (exciteosa.com), which people wear for 20 minutes a day for six weeks and then 20 minutes a couple of times a week indefinitely. It costs $1,650 and is not covered by insurance.

Surgery: Those who can’t tolerate CPAP could have upper airway surgery to reduce the size of their soft palate or other tissue in their throat. But such options don’t always work,

have serious potential complications, and cannot be reversed. So, in general, they should not be first-line treatments.

A newer option is a surgically implanted device called Inspire (inspiresleep.com). Approved in 2014, it stimulates a nerve that moves your tongue to keep your airway open. Inspire can be removed if it is not tolerated, but it should also be tried only if someone is unable to use CPAP, and it is not an option for everyone.

Drug therapy: A new study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that tirzepatide – the main ingredient found in type 2 diabetes medication Mounjaro and weight loss treatment Zepbound – helps reduce symptom severity by almost two-thirds in adults with obesity and obstructive sleep apnea. Ask your doctor about this option.

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