KM Herald 12-14-22

Statues dedicated to Officer Tyler Herndon

By Loretta Cozart

On Sunday, December 11 at 2 p.m.,

KM Christmas continues downtown, Dec 16 and 17

In an interview with WBTV, Tyler’s father Mark Herndon spoke of the statues dedicated to his son, “It’s a great tribute to Tyler. I’m sure upstairs he is looking down and saying, ‘You didn’t have to do this for me.’ I know he is excited and glad. As a family, we are glad to keep his name and memory out there, and to keep his memory going.”

See HERNDON, Page 9A

Kings Mountain Family YMCA held their 22nd Annual Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run 5k Walk/Run on Saturday December 3 at 9 a.m., at First Baptist Church in Kings Mountain.

This year, 423 runners participated in the race, including 116 from Kings Mountain.

The benefit of running the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run is that participants get to run a race that makes a difference this holiday season. The proceeds from the race go directly to those in need of financial assistance to have access to YMCA programs.

By Loretta Cozart

This year Wreaths Across America Day is Saturday, December 17; the ceremony begins promptly at noon. The event is spearheaded by the Colonel Frederick Hambright DAR Chapter, supported by Kings Mountain Woman’s Club and Shelby Civil Air Patrol. Together, these groups garnished sponsorships for more than 800 wreaths to honor veterans.

Each December, on National Wreaths Across America Day, the community’s yearlong mission to Remember, Honor and Teach, is in part carried out with a wreath-laying ceremony at Mountain Rest Cemetery, located at 111 S. Dilling

Street in Kings Mountain, as well as at more than 3,600 participating locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea, and abroad.

See WREATHS, Page 8A

It’s time to ring in the holiday season, and this year there’s no better place to celebrate than in Downtown Kings Mountain with its month-long celebration featuring amazing Christmas lights, interactive experiences, and free festive fun for the entire family.

Make plans to gather downtown for an evening with Christmas lights, Holly Jolly Hayrides, Interactive Characters, and much more.

Kings Mountain takes great pride in its special blend of family friendly holiday magic. Twinkling Christmas lights continue to illuminate city streets with Mayor Scott Neisler’ s signature Downtown Christmas Fantasy Light Show where a dazzling display of lights synchronize to music playing on your car’s radio (tune into 87.9 to enjoy the show!)

$57,527 per day for each violation

On December 7, Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), E. Sequoyah Simermeyer, issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) against the Catawba Indian Nation, Kings Mountain Sky Boat Partners, LLC (Sky Boat), and Sky Boat’s owners, officials, managers, and consultant. The NOV resulted from a thorough investigation by the NIGC Washington, D.C. Region Office that identified multiple violations of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and NIGC regulations.

As set forth in the NOV, the investigation found the Nation allowed Sky Boat to manage in part the expansion of Catawba Two Kings Casino without an approved management contract. Additionally, the

Nation and Sky Boat failed to submit a management contract within 60 days of its execution, as required by NIGC regulations.

“Based on an exhaustive investigation and analysis of the circumstances, we issued a Notice of Violation to both enforce regulatory compliance and ensure the Nation is the primary beneficiary of its gaming revenue. We do not take this enforcement action lightly, but do so to preserve the integrity of the industry and

All this and more in can be found in

Mountain

one more weekend, both Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

protect the valuable tool Indian Gaming represents for many Tribes as codified in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act,” Simermeyer said.

The Nation, Sky Boat, and Sky Boat’s owners, officials, managers, and consultant could face civil penalties not to exceed $57,527 per day for each violation and the Nation’s gaming operation could be subject to a temporary closure order.

Implants

Locally Here In Kings Mountain For Dental

Baker Dental Care Preventative, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

OFFICER TYLER HERNDON

Stroll through Patriots Park and experience Costner’s Christmas Lights Extravaganza. This yearly tradition gets better and brighter every year. Liberty Mountain Garden at the Joy Theatre has been transformed into a Downtown Artisan Market. Local Artisan Vendors are on hand selling the perfect stocking

stuffers. The market opens at 4:30 p.m. The mayor’s new Holly Jolly Hayrides will run for the first time this season.

downtown Kings

for

Shoppers enjoy visiting the Holiday Market for special holiday gifts. Photo by Damien O’Brien

two new statues were dedicated at Mt. Holly Police Department Memorial Plaza in honor of Officer Tyler Avery Herndon. Both statues represent the sorrow citizens of Mt. Holly feel for the loss of Herndon in the line of duty.

Officer Herndon was known for his kindnesses to people in the Mt. Holly community. This statue represents that relationship he had with the community.

Photo by Tyler Herndon Memorial Foundation

Dean Spearman

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Luther Dean Spearman, 90, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 7, 2022 at Peak Resources in Cherryville, NC.

Born in Cleveland Co, NC, He was Son of the late Charles Abram Spearman and Willie Norman Spearman He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Hamrick Spearman and brothers, Charles Edward Spearman, Ralph Decatur Spearman, Hunter Thomas Spearman, Joe Dan Spearman.

Dean was a graduate of the Evans College of Commerce, Gastonia, NC and worked as a Manufacturing Representative in the home furnishing industry. Mr. Spearman was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Kings Mountain, NC and the Florida Home Furnishings Association. He also served his community as a Mason and a Shriner. He will be truly missed by his family and his entire community.

He is survived by his wife: Carolyn Rogers Spearman, Kings Mtn. NC; son: Charles Guthery Spearman, Satellite Beach, FL; daughter: Sara Spearman Coolidge and husband Michael, Greenville, SC; sister: Nancy Spearman Scism and husband Charles, Kings Mtn. NC; 2 grandchildren: Nancy Elliott and husband James, Greenville, SC; Natalie Richards and husband Travis, Greenville, SC; 2 great-grandchildren: Emma Elizabeth Elliott and James Christopher Elliott; numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral service was held at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Sunday, December 11, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. Rev. Dr. Steve Taylor, officiating Visitation was 1:00 - 2:00 P.M. Sunday, December 11, 2022 prior to the service in the Christian Activities Center of Bethlehem Baptist Church.

Internment was in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery, Kings Mountain North Carolina.

Memorials may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church Building Fund, 1017 Bethlehem Road, Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086.

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

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

Teresa Taylor Baggett

PIEDMONT, SC – Teresa Gayle Taylor Baggett, 60, passed away Wednesday, December 7, 2022.

Born in Wilson, NC, she was a daughter of the late James W. Baggett, Sr. and Cherrill Darlene Newton Baggett.

She is survived by son, Christian Gilmer (Symone) of Matthews, NC; sister, Debra Baggett Garza (José C.) and brother, James W. Baggett, Jr. both of Austin, TX; and grandchildren, Mikayla Harlin, Yakira Gilmer, and Nyomi Gilmer.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 17, at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel at Gray Mortuary, with visitation to follow.

Gray Mortuary, Pelzer, SC.

Condolences: www. graymortuary.com

Road closure notice downtown

A Kings Mountain Christmas would not be complete without Christmas festivities in our Downtown. Friday evening, December 16, and Saturday evening 17, between 5:30 - 8:30 p.m., Downtown Kings Mountain will turn into a Christmas wonderland of fun and excitement.

Various roads along West Mountain Street, South Railroad Avenue, West Gold Street and South Cansler Street will be impacted.

Please use extreme caution when traveling on these roads due to the increase in motor vehicles, pedestrians and carriage and hayrides. Please plan to travel different roads if you are impacted by this change. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

CCSO releases November stats

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office released their November statistics.

During the month, there were 11,742 calls for service, 124 arrests, 1,069 papers served including 271 criminal, 531 civil, and 267 subpoenas.

One hundred thirty-two incident reports were handled: 96 were criminal and 36 were non-criminal. Two hundred and seventy gun permits were issued, along with 139 concealed carry permits.

Narcotics seized were 226,484.0 DU pills, Co-

caine 10 g, Marijuana 192.6 g, Meth 132.4 g, and Heroin 36.2 g. The monthly average of inmates handled by the sheriff’s office were 246 males and 51 females.

The founders of a fake “hedge fund” appeared in court on December 7 and pleaded guilty to federal charges for orchestrating a $4 million Ponzi scheme, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Austin Delano Page, 26, of Grover, N.C., pleaded guilty to wire fraud, and Brandon Alexander Teague, 26, of Belmont, N.C., pleaded guilty to securities fraud. U.S. Magistrate Judge David C. Keesler accepted the defendants’ guilty pleas.

North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall, Robert R. Wells, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), which oversees Charlotte, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed plea documents and the plea hearings, from October 2020 to December 2021, Page and Teague engaged in an investment scheme that defrauded hundreds of investors, some of whom were at or near retirement age, of more than

$4 million. Court documents show that the defendants falsely represented to victims that Page and Teague were running a hedge fund in Kings Mountain, N.C., D&T Investment Group (D&T), that invested in various securities, including stock of wellknown companies like Apple.

Contrary to representations made to victim investors, D&T was not a hedge fund and it did not hold any securities licenses or registrations. Also, Page and Teague were not licensed to sell securities and did not have a background associated with the sale of securities. In fact, prior to orchestrating the investment scheme the defendants sold campers.

According to court documents and admissions made in court, Page and Teague required investors to sign, among other documents, an investment contract with D&T. These documents contained false information, including that D&T would guarantee 100% of the investors’ initial investment, and that investors would receive 70% of the trading profits. In reality, the investors’ money was not guaranteed, and the purported “profits” investors received were Ponzi-style payments, whereby the de-

■ POLICE

ARRESTS

Dec.1: Kimberly Gail Perkins, second degree trespass, breaking and entering, misdemeanors, $1,000 secured bond.

DEC.2: Jacqueline Elizabeth Snyder, 31, Lincolnton, simple assault, $10,000 secured bond.

DEC. 3: Christa Shea Camp, 30, 110 Wave Road I, driving while license revoked, no insurance, no registration plate, order for arrest, $2,500 secured bond.

INCIDENTS

DEC. 1: A resident of Mary’s Grove Church Road reported damage to a passenger side mirror and passenger door paint on a 2022 Honda Acord.

DEC. 1: A resident of Cleveland Avenue reported theft of a 3 feet tall Jesus statue.

DEC. 1: City of Kings Mountain, 101 W. Gold Street, reported damage to two white porcelain sinks.

DEC. 1: A resident of Morris Street reported theft of a revolver valued at $600.

DEC. 2: Mountain Mar-

ket, 506 Waco Road, reported a suspect pointed a gun at the employee and demanded money.

DEC. 2: A resident of Waco Road reported $500 damage to an exterior metal storm door and plex glass on exterior of storage building during a break-in.

DEC. 2: A resident of Rhodes Avenue reported theft of a Dell laptop from a vehicle.

DEC. 2: A resident of Hillside drive reported theft of a handgun valued at $350.

DEC. 3: A resident of Sandy Crest Court reported theft of an Apple watch.

DEC. 5: A resident of Spruce Street reported theft of social security cards and birth certificates.

DEC. 5: A resident of Spruce Street reported theft of an Insignia Smart TV remote.

DEC. 6: A resident of Bridges Drive reported he entered a mutual fight.

DEC. 6: Walmart, Shelby Road, reported shoplifting. CITATIONS DEC. 2: Arthur Janes

fendants used new investors’ money to make payments to existing investors.

To cover up the fraud, Page and Teague sent victim investors monthly statements that reflected fictitious trading gains. When certain investors and D&T employees began to question the legitimacy of D&T’s operations, Page created fictitious screenshots of various financial accounts that reflected inflated D&T account balances. For example, Page created a fake screenshot of a D&T brokerage account that reflected a balance of over $16,000,000, when in reality the account had a balance of less than $7.00.

Contrary to representations made to victims, their money was not generally invested in securities.

In addition to making Ponzi payments to investors, a significant portion of the funds was used to pay excessive salaries and other compensation to D&T employees, including to members of Page’s family.

For example, Page paid several D&T employees annual salaries of over $100,000 and also paid certain employees several thousand dollars each for getting the D&T company logo tattooed on their bodies. The defendants also

squandered victims’ money on personal expenses such as clothing, jewelry, travel, luxury car rentals, and to make cash withdrawals.

On December 2, 2021, as the fraudulent scheme was collapsing, the defendants traveled to Italy. On the same day, Page informed D&T employees, who did not know that D&T was a fraud, that they would be closing the company. The pair was arrested on New Year’s Eve at JFK Airport in New York upon their voluntary return to the United States.

The defendants were released on bond with home detention and location monitoring following the plea hearings. Page pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum prison term of 20 years and a $250,000 fine. Teague pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum prison term of five years and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date for the defendants has not been set.

In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney King thanked the Securities Division of the North Carolina Secretary of State, the FBI and USPIS for their investigation of the case.

Welsh, 522 Waco Road, expired tag.

DEC. 3: Noah Christopher Stanley, 18, 105 Lake Montonia Road, no operator’s license, no vehicle registration, unsafe movement.

DEC. 3: Joshua Christopher Allen, 22, 110 Cheryl Court, speeding.

DEC. 3: Bryant Marquane Petty, 32, 311 E. Ridge Street, expired tag.

DEC. 5: Brandon Willis Smith, 22, 130 Mountainside Drive, failure to reduce speed to avoid a collision.

DEC. 5: Devin Chance Gann, Grover, no operator’s license.

DEC. 7: Tracy Diane Meeks, 57, 415 Fulton Street, revoked driver’s license.

WRECKS

DEC.3: Officer Geissinger said Noah Christopher Stanley, 105 Lake Montonia Road, operating a 2008 Ford, reported he thought he could get through traffic at E. Ridge Street and Cleveland Avenue and struck a 2006 Infinity operated by Roger Dale Canipe,519 Katherine Avenue. Cleveland County EMS

transported one person to Atrium Health Kings Mountain. Property damage was estimated at $4,500.

DEC. 4: Officer Herndon said Charleta Delinda Pettis, 1503 Northwoods, reported she was stopped at the stop sign on Boyce Street in her 2011 Toyota and her car was hit by a 2016 Jeep operated by Sandra Joetta McLean, 1105 Groves Street, turning left from Groves onto Boyce. Property damage was estimated at $6,000.

DEC.5: Officer Bullins responded to Phifer Road and the scene of a three-vehicle wreck. Bullins cited Brandon William Smith, 130 Mountainside Drive, with exceeding safe speed for weather condition and failure to reduce speed to avoid a collision. EMS and Firemen were on the scene. Other drivers were Ruby Bell Causby, 534 Waco Road, operating a 2008 Saturn, and Denise Nichols, Grover, operating a 2018 Kia. Property damages were estimated at $6,000.

Shelby man charged in drug overdose death

Intent to Sell marijuana.

SERPAS

On October 5, The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office / Narcotics Division began an investigation into an overdose death at a residence on Bettis Road. During this two-month long investigation, Investigators utilized countless techniques, including interviews, surveillance, undercover operations, and direct drug buys to identify a suspect.

The investigation identified Manfredy Gomez Serpas as a suspect selling fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Shelby area and he was found

to have sold drugs directly to the overdose victim. The investigation ultimately led investigators to stop Mr. Serpas in a traffic stop were approximately 1,000 grams or 2.2 pounds of Methamphetamine was seized.

Following that vehicle stop, a search warrant was conducted at his residence at 1010 Dodd Street in Shelby where additional drugs were found.

Based on the totality of all the evidence and seized drugs during this operation, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has charged Manfredy Gomez Serpas, 39, with Death by Distribution, two counts of Trafficking Methamphetamine, two counts of Possession with Intent to Sell Schedule II Controlled Substance, and Possession with

Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office is determined to aggressively investigate and prosecute every person who disseminates poisonous drug

in our community and issued the following warning, “If you sell drugs to someone who dies after their use, we are coming after you.”

ARC Enterprises sharing holiday joy

“ARC

ARC Enterprises currently has Bible Study on Wednesday nights at the Holiday Inn. For more information contact ARC Ministries at (704) 2778443.

Photo By Loretta Cozart

By Loretta Cozart

outreach event on December 21 from 7 – 8 p.m. at Holiday Inn Express at 100 Woodlake Pkwy, Kings Mountain. Following a brief service,

Holiday

Santa visited with children at the Kings Mountain Historical Museum on December 9, meeting with each one to hear special Christmas wishes. Photo by KM Historical Museum

Enjoy the trains exhibit Wednesday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Kings Mountain Historical Museum from November 25 through December 31. Photo by Loretta Cozart

Reagan

Pieces of Kings Mountain History

As Christmas approaches, the excitement of the holiday builds in me. When my children were young, we put up the tree the Friday after Thanksgiving and didn’t take it down until New Year’s Day.

LORETTA COZART

We would make cocoa and play Christmas music. My favorite album is December by George Winston. It is peaceful and reminds me of falling snow. My husband prefers songs like Grandma Got Runover by a Reindeer. And even though we didn’t agree on what music to play, we celebrated together with laughter and love.

Over the years, our daughters Kaysie and Laura, made ornaments and each year we would lovingly place them, one by one, on our tree. We had a wide variety of ornaments, some made at daycare on Country Crock lids. A Better Homes and Gardens tree this was not.

One of my favorite ornaments by Laura is of Jesus in the manger. Above is written in her young hand, “It’s a Christmas Meircle”. Yes, spelled just like that. Laura made it when she was four-years old. We

every year and laugh. As the girls got older, their ornaments got more sophisticated, but these early ones are precious to me.

This year we visited my oldest daughter in San Diego for two weeks at Thanksgiving. And, as my husband and I did when we created our family traditions, she has taken some of them as her own. Not everything, mind you. But the Christmas traditions she and her husband loved as children are now melded into a special Christmas of their own.

early while we were visiting, and it was lovely. They only have few family ornaments, which my husband observed while decorating their tree. The next day, we picked up some ornaments to paint as an evening family project.

The chaos of Christmas morning with two sons, aged 10 and almost two, was an amazing thing to witness. I’m sure I will look back on this time and miss it. I remind myself to enjoy this; it won’t last long.

Later this month, we’ll travel to Sneeds

Looking Back

Ferry, NC where my youngest daughter and her husband now live. They married last September and have been together for seven years. Together they have built a life for themselves on the coast. They have no children yet, but I have no doubt it won’t take long for them to make that leap of love.

This time of year, I think of my parents and dear friends who are no longer with me, re-

membering their words to slow down and enjoy these moments with family. In the hustle and bustle of this world, I sometimes forget. But this Christmas reminds me to savor the moment.

Sunday afternoon, my daughter in California sent me a text. She had applied Mod Podge to the ornaments we created during our visit, and they looked wonderful. My heart is full.

As I listen to my fa-

vorite Christmas music once again, I choose to embrace the passing of time, because through it we create the memories that last a lifetime. Time passes too quickly, and it seems to speed up as I age. Every day I tell my children that I love them, my grandchildren too. And one day, they’ll look back at those ornaments of their youth and smile. Families are “a Meircle,” and I am truly blessed.

A Christmas rest and peace only

Christmas is a good time to catch up on your pumpkin pie eating. Pecan pie seems readily available so this too is a good option. Try to drink one glass of eggnog during the season of joy. Eggnog does have some calories and fat grams but one glass won’t hurt you too bad. I don’t recommend drinking a gallon.

care of the work. Surely, he will show up. Just ask him to bring dinner when he comes. Make sure he comes in the front door. I don’t know about bringing broccoli casserole down the chimney.

If you are putting up lights, now is the time to do so. You want to have time to enjoy the lights and the more you string together and cover your house the more electricity you are using. This in turn creates a big electric bill but you are keeping the paychecks going for the utility people.

make it a day of bedlam. The birth of Jesus was in Bethlehem. His parents were poor. They had gone to an out of the way town to pay their taxes. There was no place for them to sleep. They slept in a barn and Jesus was born while they were there. Mary laid him in a cow’s trough. They were poor, tired, and life was not very easy for Mary, Joseph, and Jesus.

According to Hayne Neisler, the 5,960-seat theater and auditorium was the largest in the world at that time. One of the special features of the music hall was a beautiful gold curtain that hung above the stage. The curtain was created of specially dyed rayon and cotton yarn woven at the Margrace Mill in Kings Mountain.

The curtain required over 2,000 yards of fabric and was sewn together on the actual stage in New York City before hanging. Weighing over three tons, it was the largest curtain ever displayed in the United States.

An interesting story involves delivery of the curtain in time for the grand opening. Running late on the promised delivery of the fabric to New York City, Neisler Mills executives Gene Neisler and Paul Mauney loaded the entire 2,000 yards of fabric in Mrs. Ida Pauline Mauney Neisler’s ten passenger Marmon limousine and drove non-stop from Kings Mountain to New York City, arriving just in time to meet the deadline for the de-

If you had turkey and ham for Thanksgiving, you may have it again for Christmas. There is nothing wrong with repeating the Thanksgiving meal especially if it was good. If it was bad then you might consider something else. The only time of the year that I eat much turkey or country ham is during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Be careful eating too much of that smoked turkey and ham because they can be a bit salty. You don’t want to swell up like a balloon on Christmas.

Christmas should be a relaxing time. If you believe Santa Claus is coming then let him take

The main thing is don’t go crazy this Christmas. You don’t have to buy everything. The stores love for you to max out your credit cards but you won’t love it in February and March when you are paying it back. Use commonsense when it comes to the entire season. Eat a piece of pie but don’t eat the pie. Eat a slice of turkey but don’t eat the turkey. Decorate if you wish but you don’t have to spend a week putting up lights. They will all have to come back down, you know. Spend only what you can afford. If you can’t afford much then don’t press yourself to do what you cannot do.

Christmas is the birthday of Jesus but we often

Keep in mind that Jesus came to save us from our sins. He came to give us peace. The Bible calls him the Prince of Peace. Most people need some peace and one way to have more peace is to focus on the Baby of Christmas. Christ IS comfort and peace!

You don’t always find your peace at church. Why? Because the church isn’t Jesus. If your church is stressing you out, harping about money every Sunday, and pulling you in 10 different directions then you might consider taking a step back and reevaluating.

The season of joy is here. Don’t depend on others to create joy for you. Get alone with God every day and focus on Him. You’ll discover a peace and a rest that only He can provide.

These are the ornaments we created on December 3, and I look forward to hanging them on my daughter’s Christmas tree for years to come.

The 1932 Christmas season in New York City had a strong connection to Kings Mountain and the workers at the Margrace Mill. The fabulous Radio City Music Hall at the Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan was scheduled to have its grand opening on December 27, 1932.

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

Week 2 of KM Christmas celebrations

By Loretta Cozart

Holiday festivities in downtown Kings Mountain continued December 9 and 10, as families celebrated the holiday season. Some stores remained open downtown, providing additional opportunities to shop local.

The Streetscape project on Mountain Street is now completed, so there is easy access to shops, restaurants, and parking along Mountain Street. With new shops open on Mountain Street, the area is seeing more shopping traffic.

Children performed at Patriots Park, as proud parents looked on. Activities

were plentiful, and children could put their letters to Santa in a special mailbox available downtown.

Santa’s Workshop was also open Friday and Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., as it will be for one more weekend of the Kings Mountain Christmas Event, so be sure to bring family and friends to experience this fun and unique family friendly event.

Stroll through Patriots Park and experience Costner’s Christmas Lights Extravaganza. This yearly tradition gets better and brighter every year. Liberty Mountain Garden at the Joy Theatre has been trans-

formed into a Downtown Artisan Market that opens at 4:30 p.m.

December 16 and 17 are the final days of this year’s KM Christmas event, so make plans now to get in the holiday spirit and enjoy the last weekend of holiday fun in downtown Kings Mountain.

With less than two weeks left before Christmas, many were looking for those perfect gifts for friends and loved ones. Shopping local supports local merchants during the holiday season and is a great way to find fun and unique gifts for everyone in the family.

These two are making memories to last a lifetime.

Posing for a photo under the twinkling lights at Patriots Park.

Having a blast outside Santa’s Workshop. (Photos Damien O’Brien)

These kids are having a blast on stage at Liberty Falls Amphitheater.

Having a great time at KM’s Christmas Event.

Mayor Neisler welcomes passengers to Holly Jolly Hayrides through town.

Children enjoying a marshmallow craft with the family.

A couple enjoying the holiday activities in Patriots Park.

Everyone has a great time, thanks to this officer’s watchful eye.

“Peace on Earth”

Prayer changes our lives. Prayer puts our life in perspective. It is easy to allow the problems that arise in our lives to become overblown and out of proportion.

Prayer removes the burden that weighs us down, and we are in a position to trust and believe in God. When we pray, we are seeking the One that is over all of Creation.

Philippians 4:6-7 “6 Do

not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Paul teaches us here that we are called to pray in every situation. This includes the situations in our lives that we struggle to sur-

render to God. We all have these areas of our lives that we have a hard time giving over to the Lord. Not being willing to give something to the Lord will rob us of the freedom we have in God. Jesus gives us the opportunity to be set free from the bondage of sin, but when we cling to this world rather than Jesus, we are failing to trust and believe in the work of grace that God wants to perform in our lives.

We are called to give over our requests or burdens to God. When we do this, the peace of God that goes beyond all of our understanding will protect

us. Therefore, we do not need to worry about anything. In prayer we seek the face of God, the One that delivers you from this world, and desires to have a relationship with you. When we pray, the peace of God covers our lives and guards our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. In prayer, we receive perspective of how little our problems are in the presence of the Almighty God. This same God blesses us by protecting His followers with peace that this world knows nothing about. The peace that we, those that believe and follow God,

receive is a peace that goes beyond our understanding, and especially those that do not know Him.

The peace of God is found in the person of Jesus Christ. In the person of Jesus, we find the hope of God and the peace of God. We find the saving grace that washes away our sins and sets us from the bondage of sin that entangles our lives. God has made away for you to have peace, the true, whole, and perfect peace of Jesus that came into this world as a baby.

www.momsinprayer.org

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

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

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

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

Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road

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

Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206

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

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

Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888

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

Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714

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

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

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

Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700

Arise Church 830 E. King St.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road 704-739-7487

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Temple Baptist Church

612 N. Cansler St. • Kings Mountain, NC

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Crowders Mountain Baptist 125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310

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

Dixon Presbyterian Church 602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com

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

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

Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kings Mtn.Dream Center 1128 York Road 704-739-8496

Tim & Angie Goates, Pastors www.kmdreamcenter.com

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

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

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

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:9-12

Pastor Cameron Barefield Kings Mountain Church of the Nazarene

Habitat for Humanity featured at Rotary meeting

Kings Mountain Rotary Club’s guest speaker this week was Amy Allen with Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland County.

Habitat for Humanity was affiliated in 1987 and built their first house in

1988. Since its founding, they were reorganized in 2002 and are completing their 33rd home this year.

If you would like to donate furniture or anything, you can call the ReStore in Shelby and they can

arrange for a pick-up on Mondays and Tuesdays.

If you are interested in volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, you can contact Amy at amyallenhfh@ gmail.com.

Free flu vaccine for uninsured adults at CC Health Department

The Cleveland County Health Department is offering free flu vaccine for adults without health insurance while supplies last.

It is not too late to get your flu vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective and the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting the flu. The CDC encourages everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated.

In addition to vaccination, continue practicing healthy habits to protect yourself from flu and other viruses:

Cover your nose and mouth with tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Throw the tissue in the trash promptly after use.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.

Stay home if you are sick. You should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone and other symptoms have improved, except to get medical care.

The flu vaccine is

available at the Cleveland County Health Department Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm with no appointment necessary.

If you are an uninsured adult and would like to receive a free flu vaccine, you may want to consider calling before you come to ensure we still have free flu vaccine for uninsured individuals available.

“We recognize cost can be a major barrier to receiving the flu vaccine for uninsured adults,” Deputy Health Director, DeShay Oliver said. “While the health department receives State supplied flu vaccine that we are able to offer to uninsured children under the age of 18 for free, we do not receive State supplied flu vaccine we are able to offer to uninsured adults. However, we recently received approval to use State grant funds to purchase a limited supply of flu vaccine that we will be offering to uninsured adults for free. We hope this will help some individuals who may not be

able to receive the flu vaccine otherwise, get vaccinated.”

continues to be free of charge for children 18 and younger who have Medicaid, do not have insurance, or are underinsured (meaning insurance does not cover the flu vaccine). The vaccine is also free for uninsured (non-Medicaid) pregnant women 19 and older who are serviced by the health department and women 19 and older who have a family planning waiver (Be Smart) and are receiving services at the health department.

Medicare, or Medicaid, we will bill these third-party payers.

or need additional information, you may call the Cleveland County Health Department Immunization Clinic at 980-484-5100. You may also find additional information about the flu at www.flu.nc.gov.

Friends of Crowders Mountain Meeting January 10

The Friends of Crowders Mountain, Inc.'s Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Sparrow Springs Visitor Center, 522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC.

New members welcome – come join in the fun! The meeting will include election of officers and board members, budget approval, Park updates, grant updates, events and trailwork planning.

Please see facebook.com/FriendsOfCrowdersMtn or www. friendsofcrowders.com. If questions, contact the Park Office at 704-853-5375.

KMIS students recognized for outstanding character

By Trey Robinson

(The recipes in today’s Cooking Corner are from “Star Spangled Recipes” by American Legion Auxiliary members from North Carolina.

FRUIT PIE

softened 1 cup sugar ½ cup coconut 2 eggs, well beaten 12 cup nuts 1 tsp. vanilla Mix well. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Bake at 300 degrees for 40 minutes.

Amy Allen speaks to Rotarians about Habitat for Humanity at its December 8 meeting at Patrick Senior Center. Photo by Amanda Justice

Each academic team at Kings Mountain Intermediate School was tasked with selecting one

student who exemplified the character trait of the month. The following students were selected by their teachers for demonstrating Good Citizenship.

Students were rewarded with a certificate and treats from KMIS administration. KMIS appreciates their hard work and outstanding character.

5th Grade: Ethan Mann – Penguins, Maralee Robert – Seagulls, Ava Hughes – Dolphins, and Joshua Ruppe – Seals.

6th Grade: Gavin Camp – Panthers, Annaleigha Jackson – Hornets, Jonathan Garcia-Diaz –Eagles, and Keilan Shull – Sharks.

Friends of Crowders Mountain, Inc. sends a special thank you to all the litter pick up trails volunteers for helping maintain their beautiful resource. (Photo provided)

WREATHS

From Page 1A

Laying a live, balsam veteran’s wreath on an individual headstone for a veteran and saying their name out loud is a unique and individual experience. It is a small gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy each day, and the community is proud to play a part in making sure that the legacy of duty, service, and sacrifice of each veteran is never forgotten.

Can the Colonel Frederick Hambright DAR Chapter, Kings Mountain Woman’s Club, and Shelby Civil Air Patrol count on you to join them to honor Kings Mountain veterans December 17? The ceremony and honoring of veterans last about an hour and a great way to remember the veterans of Kings Mountain at Christmastime.

If you would like to help

setup for the ceremony, arrive at Mountain Rest Cemetery by 10:30 a.m. and meet near the cemetery’s veterans’ section. Wreaths need to be distributed in bulk to various sections throughout the cemetery, so bring your pickup truck and lend a hand. Feel free to bring a few friends, too. Those who wish to place wreaths are asked to arrive shortly before noon.

As Kings Mountain citizens gather to thank veterans interred at Mountain Rest Cemetery, let us not forget the sacrifices these veterans made for us and our country. Let us remember that these individuals were husbands, fathers, sons, brothers, wives, sisters, daughters, mothers, and friends. Most called Kings Mountain home at some point of their lives, and now they rest among us for eternity. Let us take time to remember and honor each of them this Saturday at noon.

This young fellow poses with Santa and Mrs. Claus Photos by KM Family YMCA

A young runner pauses for a photo with a reindeer.

Half the fun is dressing up in costume for the race and making a difference in the community and lead a healthy lifestyle.

runner

after

race.

Grover Elementary School students give back

By Mary Ingram

Grover Elementary School students have been learning about kindness this month. They have been focusing on showing kindness to others. The also collected canned foods, toiletry items, baby wipes, diapers, socks, gloves, and underwear that were donated to the Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry or our Grover Clothing Room.

School counselor Mrs. Lemons had the students create placemats that were

donated to Summit Place for their Thanksgiving meal. The third graders from Grover Elementary had a wonderful visit with the residents at Summit Place on Friday, December 9. They performed several Christmas Readers' Theaters and sang Christmas carols. The students also made and presented the residents with bookmarks and cards. Everyone enjoyed the visit!

The students then had lunch at Los Tarascos where they sang, “Feliz Navidad”

for the employees and customers.

Mrs. Lemons also had the kindergarten students create cards for the residents of Courtland Terrace. The students will be visiting with the residents and delivering the cards.

Staff hopes that these acts of kindness will not only continue throughout the holiday season but for the remainder of the students' lives and will have a lasting impact on the importance of giving back to the community.

HERNDON

From Page 1A

Officer Herndon, 25, lost his life while responding to a breaking and entering at a Mt. Holly car wash. He had been a member of the Mount Holly Police Department just shy of two years. The young officer died two days before his 26th birthday.

Officer Herndon and his family are from Kings Mountain. His parents are Mark and Debbie Phillips Herndon, his paternal grandparents are Ray and Jean Herndon. His sister is Lindsey Herndon of Charlotte.

Bethware Elementary looking forward to busy days ahead

On Friday, December 16 at 7:30 a.m. the monthly All Pro Dads event will be led by Mr. Reed from KMIS. He will be giving a presentation on gratitude during a doughnut breakfast. Students and their fathers will also get to make gingerbread ornaments together.

That afternoon at 1:30 p.m., third and fourth grade will present their Winter Musical performance. The school encourages parents to come and see all the hard work these students have

put in to make this a festive event.

December 21, the last day before winter break is their Christmas Cruise Through. They encourage parents to decorate their cars and continue driving around the school after picking up their child at the 1:00 early dismissal. The Title I department will be handing out math, reading and SEL resources to use at home. Santa will be present handing out goodies as well!

Be on the lookout for hot toy scams

Every year, there are always a few must-have toys on most kids’ holiday wish lists. The toy sells out fast and becomes expensive and hard to find. On top of that, parents worry about getting their deliveries on time. In 2022, according to Amazon, include Magic Mixies Magical Misting Crystal Ball, Snap Circuits, Breyer Horses Unicorn Magic Wood Stable, National Geographic Break Open Geodes, and everyone’s favorite, Squishmallows. Scammers are using the toys’ popularity to trick parents out of their money.

How the scam works: You are looking for these

toys, but they are sold out at every store you visit. So, you decide to shop online. A quick search takes you to a page that miraculously has the toy in stock. The site may look professional and have original images of the product. It may even offer the product at discounted prices, claiming a “last-minute deal” or “flash sale.”

Unfortunately, many such offers are fake. In many cases reported to BBB.org/ScamTracker, buyers thought they were ordering a high-quality toy. Instead, they received a cheap counterfeit version. In other cases, the products

Students performed several Christmas Readers' Theaters and sang Christmas carols.Residents enjoy having Grover Elementary School students visit them during the holidays.

Former Bethware student, Jadee Wallace, with her gingerbread house. Photo provided

The officer represented in this photo puts his hand to his face in sorrow over the loss of Tyler Herndon. Photos Tyler Herndon Memorial Foundation

COVID-19 numbers double in county last week

By Loretta Cozart

Centers for Disease Control reported 125 new COVID-19 cases in Cleveland County last week. While 125 cases may not seem like much, and the community level remains low, at face value that information can be misleading.

Last week’s 125 cases represent a 137.48 percent increase in Coronavirus cases from the prior week. With Thanksgiving in the past, and Christmas and New Year right around the corner, it is best to protect yourself and loved ones during this holiday season.

Cleveland County Health Department Deputy Health Director DeShay Oliver advises county residents, “One of the most important steps people can take to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and other viruses such as the flu, over the holidays is staying home when they are sick and getting tested.”

“It is easy to mistake COVID-19 symptoms for the common cold or even allergies,” she said. “However, when spread to individuals at high risk due to age or underlying health conditions, symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening.”

“At-home tests are now widely available and easy to use. The Cleveland County Health Department continues to distribute FREE at-home tests Monday – Friday from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to ‘Know Before You Go’ by testing for COVID-19 before gathering with family and loved ones,” she recommends.

There is a limit of 6 tests per household per day available while supplies last at the Health Department and anyone picking up a test must be 14-years old or older. Cleveland County Health Department is located at 200 S. Post Road in Shelby.

NC GA Senate Page Program application process

North Carolina General Assembly Senate Page Program offers young men and women the opportunity to learn about and participate in the legislative process of our state. It is an experience that allows high school students in tenth, eleventh and twelfth grade to observe firsthand how our laws are made. It provides them the unique

SCAMS

From Page 9A

never shipped, and the websites vanished. In either case, when the dissatisfied customers tried to follow up with the company, they found that the staff either didn’t respond or refused to provide a refund.

For example, one shopper told BBB Scam Tracker that they fell for a phony deal on a popular plush toy: “This company offered hard-to-find Squishmallows. I purchased one for

privilege of working on the Senate Chamber floor amid legislative action.

Senate Pages are important to the operation of the General Assembly as they assist the members and staff of the Senate during the legislative session. They participate in daily sessions, committee meetings, and perform other duties including, but

$40. The website claims there is a 30-day hassle-free policy. I finally received the product, and it is counterfeit. There are no tags on it, and it is of extremely inferior quality. I have tried to use the email provided to request a return label and it is not a real email. They also have a chat available on the website, but gee, guess what? No one is on the chat! I will be disputing the purchase on my credit card.”

Another shopper found what they thought was a great deal on a Magic Mixies Cauldron, but the product never shipped. “I

not limited to, delivering messages and materials within the legislative complex, answering phones in senators’ offices, passing out documents and running errands.

Official appointments are made by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate based on recommendations by individual senators. Each senator is allotted a

tried to reach out by email, website contact form and phone with no response. The phone goes to a Gmail mailbox,” the consumer told BBB Scam Tracker. “I was able to resolve it via a PayPal dispute, however, the company falsely had a Priority Mail tracking.”

Tips to avoid toy scams

• Only buy toys from reputable stores and websites. The best way to avoid getting scammed when purchasing toys is to buy them directly from a seller you know and trust.

• Don’t be fooled by extra-low prices. Unrea-

few students he or she can sponsor each session.

Interested students contact their Senator for an application. (You can contact NC State Senator Ted Alexander at (919) 715-0690, or by email at Ted.Alexander@ncleg.gov

Appointments are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

sonably low prices are a red flag for a scam on many products. Avoid making a purchase from a retailer you aren’t familiar with just because the price sounds too good to be true – it probably is!

• Research before you buy. If a company seems legitimate but you aren’t familiar with it, be extra careful with your personal information. Before offering up your name, address, and credit card information, make sure the company has a working customer service number.

Kindergarten, first grade and second grade students performed ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas to a packed house in North Elementary School’s auditorium on December 6, as parents snapped photos and videotaped the performances for posterity. Mrs. Traci Aderholdt is the school’s music teacher. Shown are various scenes from the event.

(Photos provided by Anna Hughes)

now open SENATOR TED ALEXANDER

Hey! My name i s Shariah Creighton-Bey. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: Can I give you a hug and I love you. Two things I want for Christmas are: a Barbie and a car. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Haydan Mosteller. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how is the North Pole and is your reindeers doing fine? Two things I want for Christmas are: a Ninja Turtle playset and a Ninja Turtle van. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Winter Murray. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: are you doing good and do you know what I want for Christmas? Two things I want for Christmas are: one of those play phones and a Barbie that looks like me. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Abigail Wood. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how are you feeling today and are you always watching us? I see your camera in Mrs. Denkler’s room. Two things I want for Christmas are: a dollhouse and a pink camera. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Henry Terry. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you

are: Are you watching us so that you can put Christmas presents under our tree at our house and are you working at the North Pole with your elfs? Two things I want for Christmas are: a nerf gun and a balance scale like Mrs. Denkler uses during math. I want the green frog one. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Tahj Gingles . I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how are you feeling today and how are your reindeers feeling today? Two things I want for Christmas are: an orange ball and mega blocks for my mom and dad’s house. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Jacquaria Burris . I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: Are you making lots of toys and is it cold at the North Pole?

Two things I want for Christmas are: a baby doll and a kitchen set. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Cooper Rice. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: What size boots do you wear and do you like milk with your cookies? Two things I want for Christmas are: a reindeer car and a bear. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Braylee Bridges . I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: where did you get your pretty red hat and where do you get all of the toys? Two things I want for Christmas are: a guinea pig and a monster truck. I have been

a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Zaylee Wyatt. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how are the reindeers doing and are you going to come visit me? I have been a very good girl this year. Two things I want for Christmas are: a Barbie car with Barbies and a monkey that is a stuffed animal. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Karson Bogier. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how are the reindeers doing and where did you get your red hat?

Two things I want for Christmas are: a transformer and a nerf gun. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Rosalie Carter. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: Can I be an elf and will I get to work in the factory? Two things I want for Christmas are: a desk for my homework at home and some LOL stuff. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Mila Floyd I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how is the North Pole and how does your magic work?

Two things I want for Christmas are: a little kids swimming suit and a little kids car. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Paislee Medley. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how does your magic

work and how do elves fly? Two things I want for Christmas are: a Gabby dollhouse that is two inches tall and a Bluey dance thing. It talks to you and asks you if you want to play a game. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Isaiah Williams . I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: is your sleigh working and how are your reindeers feeling?

Two things I want for Christmas are: a bicycle and an electric car that is a monster truck. I have been a very good boy!

Hey! My name is Kyra Wilson . I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: what reindeer is your favorite and do you like all of your reindeers?

Two things I want for Christmas are: a Barbie camper and a Barbie doll. I have been a very good girl!

Hey! My name is Avi Klenk. I am in Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles’ kindergarten class. Two questions I have for you are: how fast is your sleigh and does your reindeer fly all year or just at Christmas? Two things I want for Christmas are: An orange hot wheel car for me and a pink hot wheel car for my sister. I have been a very good boy!

Mrs. Sparks and Miss Purkey Kindergarten Grover Elementary

Dear Santa, Thank you for my presents last year. Can you bring me a big ole washer for my toy room so I can wash my

baby doll clothes and my clothes? I am going to give you milk and cookies. I like the reindeers that drive your sled.

Love, Scarlett J.

Dear Santa, I love you and I will dream about you until you come. When you give me presents I will be surprised. This time I want some new teddy bears, a new Barbie, and a really new unicorn friend. I will leave you some chocolate chip cookies and some white milk and some carrots for the reindeer.

Love, Briella H.

Dear Santa Claus, What do your reindeers look like? What do you really look like? I want a Spider man toy, a shark toy, and a Batman toy. I will leave you cookies and milk in the kitchen.

Your Friend, Noah Y.

Dear Santa, I like your name. I love you because you bring presents under my Christmas tree. Can you bring me a unicorn doll, a unicorn puppet, and a kitty puppets?

I like puppets cause I can put them on my hand and act them. Bring me and Bu candy please like suckers. Your Friend, Sheila B.

Dear Santa Claus, I am going to give you cookies. For Christmas I want a Spiderman toy, a robot that can grab stuff and walk, and Legos. How does reindeer fly?

Love, James B.

Dear Santa Claus, I want to get a toy train for Christmas. I am going to leave you a list of things I want in my bedroom. My baby Theo needs new diapers. We are going to leave you cookies and milk. Thank you for the bell you

gived me on the train last week.

Love, Jaxxon T.

Dear Santa, How do the reindeers fly? For Christmas I want a Barbie camper that is pink and has beds in it. I am going to hang up my stocking. Your Friend, Bahari B.

Dear Santa Claus, Do you like cookies and milk? Do you like flying with your reindeer? I want a baby doll for Christmas like I had when I was little. I want a Barbie any kind will be okay. I also want a fishing duck game. My little sister Stella goes to Mommy’s bedroom at night so don’t wake her up. I will read her a Christmas story and that might work to help her sleep.

Your Friend, Harper P.

Dear Santa, I want a present, a big one. I really want a computer and a phone. I want a Barbie and a real boat. I can make you cookies. I want to give you a hug.

Your Friend, Lilly O.

Dear Santa Claus, I am going to go to sleep really early on Christmas night cause I will be really excited. I want a hamster toy with accessories, a Squishmallow a little one, and a LOL doll house. I am going to leave you cookies and milk.

Love, Trinity B.

Dear Santa Claus, Can I be an elf? I want to have hot chocolate and eat chocolate all day. For Christmas I want all things Pokemon. I also want a light up Grinch that talks. I also want a animal that is the guy that has the leaves on his back from Pokemon. Be careful of our dog because he protects us by snapping.

Love, Brantley R.

Mrs. Denkler and Mrs. Miles Kindergarten Grover Elementary

Dear Santa Claus, Can I see Rudolph the red nosed reindeer? I really want a toy shotgun that is little and lights up when you pull the trigger. And I want a foam shield and sword set. Can I see and feed the reindeer when you come to my house on Christmas? I will feed them carrots or whatever you give me to feed them. Watch out and do not step on any of my dogs’ dog toys. That will be all.

Love, Tucker S.

Dear Santa Claus, For Christmas I want a truck that is red. It is a little one. I have been really good and helped mom clean up. I will leave you cookies and milk.

Your Friend, Leland C.

Dear Santa Claus, I want to go to the North Pole and play in the snow. I want an Elsa car and some baby dolls. I want a big baby doll with straight hair that is red. I want a Mickey Mouse bowl and a Elsa bowl. I want pop its too and a hoverboard. I have been good.

Love, Paisley W.

Dear Santa Claus, I want a big box of Paw Patrols that you have to build. It has little pups. I want a fishing pole so I can go fishing with Piper and Nick. I want a lunch box that is plastic so I can eat after I go fishing. I want Legos you can build. I want a new car for my mom. Don’t step on my cat when you come. I will leave you chocolate cookies and for your reindeer green apples.

Love you Santa, Rylie Grace G.

want a video game and a Sonic car with Sonic inside. I want Sonic to come out and the arms and legs to move, but I don’t want the head to move. I want a Spiderman set just with a Spiderman. I want a tablet iPad and a boy bracelet. I made a paper for you and Piper did too and I will mail it to you.

Love, Braxton M.

Dear Santa, I want Batman toys and Sonic toys. I want you to see my Christmas tree. I will turn the lights on for you to see.

Your friend, Elijah S.

Hello Santa Claus! Where do you live at? For Christmas I want a toy Gremlin, a real cat and cakey blanket. When will my elf come? I am ready to see him.

Your friend, Everly S.

Dear Santa Claus, I see you everyday. I know where you live. You are nice to us and you like for us to sit on your lap. You like to give prizes to us. I want a doll for Christmas and playdough and a toy.

Love, Faith C.

Hi Santa! What do your elves do for fun? Please can I have a Barbie Dream House with a car. Please can I have a gray car with a bunny inside of it. What do you do in the mornings? Do you just get up and put your clothes on? Can I have one more toy? I want a car that is red and one more thing. Can I have a Dream House Barbie girl. I like Legos. I would like to help you in your shop.

Your friend, Gabriella A.

have toys. I will be good so I can have toys. I want a truck.

Your friend, Kale R.

Dear Santa, I like the name Donner. I want a puppy dog for Christmas. I love you! I will leave you some cookies and milk and some carrots for the reindeer.

Love, Kimmorah S.

Hey Santa! Your reindeer ride a long sleigh. What I want for Christmas is a hedgehog and even more presents. You have a little live pet hamster in your sleigh waiting for me. The next day I will listen to my teachers. I sit on the rug sometimes.

Happy Santa! Layla C.

Hi Santa Claus! You work on stuff. I want makeup for Christmas. I want a kitchen set. I have been playing at the playground. I will make you a pointer. I want another dog. I will turn the Christmas tree lights on.

Love, Madelyn P.

Dear Santa Claus, I am thankful for you letting me have an Elf on the Shelf. I want a toy car that I can ride on, a toy truck that I can ride on, a Gekko mobile that I can actually play with. I want a toy kitty cat that says meow, meow and can walk when I push the button. I actually have one, but it doesn’t work anymore and I really want another one. One more thing, a Minnie Mouse toy car for my sister that she can ride on like my car and truck.

Love, Ollie H.

Hi Santa Claus!

Hello Santa Claus! How do the reindeer fly? I want a unicorn for Christmas. I will leave carrots, cookies and milk for you and your reindeer.

Your friend, Addisyn C.

Hello Santa Claus! Your elf is your friend and my friend. I want a teddy bear for Christmas. I hope you will give me a lot of presents. I will leave you some milk and cookies. Can I have 5 different colored presents?

Love, Alivia C.

Hi Santa Claus!

Please tell the elves that I

Dear Santa, I know I have been a little too rough, but I am going to be a good boy. I want something really big for Christmas. It would be a mini dirt bike. I will be really, really good to my sister.

Happy Christmas! Grayden S.

Hey Santa Claus!

I want a LOL Doll toy ball. I have been good. You have to get your carriage ready for the reindeer. I will leave you some cookies and milk.

Your friend, Harlyn M.

Hey Santa Claus! I want a cage and dinosaur truck for Christmas. I want a lot of stuff. I have been good and bad. I already

I want you to come to my house. I want you to bring me a Magic Mixies, a Gabby Playhouse and a Barbie doll. I miss you. Your friend, Paisley W.

Hey Santa!

I want Farming Sim 22 for Christmas. I will leave cookies for you for Christmas and carrots for the reindeer. I have been good this year.

Love, Taylor B.

Hello Santa Claus!

I want a whole entire box full of Spiderman action figures. I also want a motorcycle, a new backpack, a new camo suit, and a action figure of Spiderman with those four things sticking out of his back. I also want new shoes. I have deco-

rated my tree. I can only decorate the top because I have a little brother that will break decorations. I also want a new Charzard snuggly animal. Charzard is a Pokemon. Your friend, Ted R.

I like Santa! I like your reindeer. I want Batman toys for Christmas and Sonic. I like dinosaurs too. I have a Batmobile and a Batman toy at my house that I already play with. I will give you a hug when I see you.

I like you, Zayden W. Mrs. Laney and Mrs. Herndon

First Grade Bethware Elementary

Dear Santa, I want a pink and orange squishy ball. I want a new puppy dog even though my mom doesn’t like it.

Love, Lynny

Dear Santa, I want a crafting set for Christmas. I want books about space and books about animals. I want a stuffed animal that is a Bear.

Love, Carmelita

Dear Santa, I want a toy hamster with babies. I want an American girl doll. I want a baby doll that talks.

Love, Harper

Dear Santa, I want a remote-control car. I want a fake snake so I can scare my brother. I want a Lego car.

Love, Adan

Dear Santa, I want an American girl doll house. I want a barbie doll. I want a princess doll named Jasmine.

Love, Khloe

Dear Santa, I want a smart watch. I want a Lego lake with a boat and a truck and trailer. I want a smart robot.

Love, Grayson

Dear Santa, I want a monster truck. I want some new pajamas and some new shoes. I want Roblox cards.

Love, Karson

Dear Santa, I want Cinderella glass slippers. I want a unicorn popits and an elf on the shelf. I want a hippo toy.

Love, Khaegyn

Dear Santa, I want a robot that can clean my room. I

want a robotic boat that can go in water. I want an electric guitar.

Love, Hudson

Dear Santa, I want a pink volley ball and some books about fly guy. I want a hover board to ride inside my house. I want a custom-made soccer jersey with the number 1 on the back.

Love, Aubrey

Dear Santa, I want fashion heels and clothes to go with them. I want a pink cheetah collar for my dog. I want a fashion doll to go with my barbie dream house.

Love, Josie

Dear Santa, I want a new Minecraft Lego set with metal figures. I want a nerf gun pistol with bullets. I want a remote-control car. Love, Christian

Dear Santa, I want a dirt bike that is blue. I want a football so I can play with my brother. I want a stuffed animal bear.

Love, Lemuel

Dear Santa, I want a big monster truck remote control dog. I want 10 stretchy toys. I want a robot that will do what I tell it to.

Love, Braylen

Dear Santa, I want a car. I want a T-rex. I want a train.

Love, Axel

Dear Santa, I want a Barbie doll house. I want a Squishmallow unicorn. I want a light up cat. Love, Samayah

Dear Santa, I want a Thomas the Train. I want a T-rex. I want hot wheels cars.

Love Terry

Ms. Cooke First Grade Bethware Elementary

Jackson Lail - dear santa can i ples have a bubbl tent, a mincraft cat neck peloe, a stuft anml santa, presten plushee, a lego mario set, a vr set, a rmot chrane, a jrone, a cunptr, a big maro. i promis ill be good to my elf on the shelf

Paytan Cavazos- dear santa i wut a scupruf a baby cat a tablit a bike a lol pet a lol a mot a kto cor a lego fox. i promis i will be good.

Ryan English- dear santa i wud lik som klothz and som stuft animls and som mor toyz lik batman toyz I want madden 23 and a ps5. a new bik too. I wil be good and lisin to my parents.

Masyn Gardner- dear santa i want a lego titanic, and 4 different plush among us ones. I need another drawing board and two more drawing boards. I draw on all of them. I want a movie of the titanic and dear santa this is masyn

Mark Rosenthal - dear santa i want a magie flying ball with magie wode that cotolls it and a unicorn blanket that glows in the dark bucus i promise i am going to be good

Adalynn Sandall - dear santa i want a christmas book that i can raed and christmas dolls and a boy christmas dolls and a toy baer i will be good for santa

Abigail Ruppe - dear santa i woob like a hnvrbared plees i promise i wil bee nise` and i wat a babee puppy

Levi Terry- dear santa i wut a t.rex and a huvrbood and a legodog and a tablit and a fourwilr and a jiibtaboe and a pee es5 and a little tv i promise i wil bee cide

Alonna Wilson - Bear santa i want a puppy for christmas i promis to be good i want a hover board and roller skates.i want slime and paint and barbie bolls and new shoes like nike. i want new clothes and bows to mach. and i want a phone so i can play games. I want a ps5 and sweaters for the cold. and i want a bike. I want a trampoline and a playground. I will be good and i want a ring and necklace.

Landon Toney - dear santa i want a bed house with a kitchen and a door at the front. I would like a tv, a puppy, a tablet with dangle the tiger with morning and nights game. i would like more clothes and a big house for my mom. more roblox please. i would like a toy tractor. and a trailer for the tractor. a pick up trailer too. i want a dodge powerwheel with a goose neck trailer. thank you santa and we’ll leave cookies. i will see you at the mall.

Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Anthony Kindergarten Grover Elementary

Sophia Fuentes - Dear santa i was a car uf bluey i was a lol surprise i was a barbie drem home, I was a majec peso. I was a Book I was a sesl teshr its mis cooke. I be nice and helpful and good.

Samaya Chambers - Dear santa i want a barbie doll and a lol and a car. Send these to my home. Im going to be good. Thank you.

Colson Frigo - Dear santa ia want hulka bstr lego. I wanta Lego. I want a EEVEE. I want Pet. I want a Krestmus tre. Beg a good at skl.

Mrs. Salter First Grade Bethware Elementary

Dear Santa, What is the weather like at the North Pole? I want a million dollars for Christmas. I also want a remote control race car and a remote control monster truck.

Aiden

Dear Santa, Can I leave carrots for the reindeer? I want a real elf from the North Pole for Christmas. I also want a kitten and to see my BFF Journey for Christmas. I love you and you are the best.

Kinlee

Dear Santa, How do the reindeer fly? I want a furry squishy ball for Christmas. I would also like a baby doll and a baby panda plushie. Merry Christmas Santa.

Carmen

Dear Santa, How is the weather in the North Pole? I want a Mixy Magic Pot for Christmas. I would also like a piano and a toy kitchen with food. Merry Christmas Santa.

Jayden

Dear Santa, How is the weather at the North Pole? I want a Lamborghini remote control car for Christmas. I would also like a toy transformer and a robot. Merry Christmas Santa.

Zayden

Dear Santa, How do the elves make all the toys for all the kids? I want a bike with training wheels for my brother. I would also like a motorbike and a Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage. Merry Christmas Santa. I hope you have a good day.

Briggs

Dear Santa, How is the weather at the North Pole? I want a big Barbie doll for Christmas. I would also like a phone case and a tablet for my sister. Thank you for the presents.

Averie

Dear Santa, How do your reindeer fly? I want a Nintendo Switch for Christmas. I would also like a Hulk Man Action Figure and a robot. Merry Christmas Santa.

Timothy

Dear Santa, How do the elves make the toys? I want a toy Rudolph for Christmas. I would also like Transformers and a computer. Thank you for my presents.

Braxton

Dear Santa, How do the reindeer fly? I want a Star Wars Lego set for Christmas. I would also like a robot and a globe. Your elf has been crazy at my house.

Ezequiel

Dear Santa, How do the reindeer not crash into each other? I want a new dog for Christmas. I also want art supplies and a girl elf from the North Pole. I miss you and I like you.

Sadie

Dear Santa, How do you bring all the presents in just one night? I want a Magic Mixy for Christmas. I would also like a nutcracker and an Aphmau toy. Thank you for my presents.

Emma

Dear Santa, How small are the elves? I want a giant NERF gun for Christmas. I would also like a car picture for my room and crayons to use at home. Thank you for the presents.

Brantley

Dear Santa, How do the reindeer fly? I want a toy truck for Christmas. I also want rocks for the back of the truck and a toy car. Merry Christmas Santa.

Lochlin

Dear Santa, How do the reindeer fly? I want a car toy that walks. I would also like Elsa Legos and a toy kitchen with food. Merry Christmas Santa.

Deylin

Dear Santa, How cold is it at the North Pole? I want a new baby doll for Christmas. I would also like a toy car and a squishy toy. Thank you for the presents.

Terri

Dear Santa, How are the reindeer able to fly? I want a soccer game for Christmas. I would also like a basketball and football. Thank you for the presents.

Gabriel

Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Herndon First Grade Bethware Elementary

Dear Santa, Santa you are nice! I want a elwels and money and a slime and a doly. Love, Jocabed

Dear Santa, I want a 2 wheeled scooter and a gaming computer. Love, Jake

Dear Santa, You have a lot of elves. I want a trampoline and a pop it. Love, Karsyn

Dear Santa, You are so kind Santa! I want a puppy and a popet and money and a scateboode.

Love, Karter Hope

Dear Santa, Santa you are nice. I want legos.

Love, Liam E.

Dear Santa, I love you Santa. Can you bring lots of pris! I want a pup! And pops and a whistle! And money! Ok nal I am done with my list. I love you. Bi! Love, Vada

Dear Santa, You are nice! I want a poppy and batman and toy sniper and a whistle. Love, Kemen

Dear Santa, Santa you are nice! I want a monster truck. Love, Jesus

Dear Santa, Have I been good this year? I want minibrans this year. Love, Rachel

Dear Santa, I will leave you milk and cookies! I love you Santa! I want a poppet and a whistle.

Love, Paisley

Dear Santa, You are the best Santa. I want a football man and a toy jaguer. Love, Will

Dear Santa, Santa you are nice and Santa I will put randeer fud

for you. I want a toy sniper and a light saber and a toy. Love, Liam P.

Dear Santa, I love you so muth. I will leave you milk and cookies. I want a plastic pistl and legos.

Love, Clovis

Dear Santa, I am going to leave you milk and cookies. I want a Nintendo switch.

Love, TInley

Dear Santa, You are cool! I want a giley soot that has a mask and I want a light saber and spy stuf.

Love, Isaac

Dear Santa, You are so nice to kids. I want a puppy and a whistle and legos.

Love, Isabelle

Dear Santa, Thank you for sending the good stuff to us. These stuff are the best. I want a monster truck and 10 poppet. I want 1 dolla and I want a toy car. I will leave you milk and cookies.

Love, Braydon

Dear Santa, I love you Santa! I want a toy sniper and a toy dog. Love, Andrew

Dear Santa, I have been good this year and you are nice. I want a pupy. Love, Cynthia

Mrs. Owens & Ms. Jordan First Grade Bethware Elementary

Dear Santa, I would like a Princess Barbie and a baby sister. I have been good this year. I love you Santa! Brandy V.

Dear Santa, I would like a Barbie car with a kitchen in the back. My brother would like a Nerf gun. I like Rudolph! Callie H.

Dear Santa, I would like to have an Apple iPhone so I can call people. I would also like one million Huggy Wuggys. Can I have a big stuffy of Michael Myers and Jason? Can you bring my sister one million toy unicorns? Santa you are the best!

Braidynn S.

Dear Santa, I would like a four-wheeler, a pet snake, and a new pair of black and white of Dunks. What do the elves do at the North Pole? Will you tell Mrs. Claus that I said hey?

Sinora H.

Dear Santa, I want a squishy baby, a giraffe that can stand on its feet and I can ride it. I would also like a Barbie with brown hair, tan skin and butterflies on her dress. I like that you give us presents!

Tenley E.

Dear Santa, I would like a Hoverboard, and one of those things that you sit on and steer with your feet. My brother and I want the new Xbox. My mom wants love and my dad wants a new truck. I believe in you!

Jaxon J.

Dear Santa, I would like to have some Barbie clothes, and new pajamas. I need some cowgirl boots. My brother loves baby shark! My mom would like a new coffee

cup and my dad needs some Crocs. How is my elf Sparkles doing?

Skyler M.

Dear Santa, I would like a heart shaped Pop it, a unicorn squishy, a magic wand, and a Rainbow High book. My brother wants a skateboard and my sister wants Pokemon cards and my other sister wants Barbies.

I love you Santa!

Jolene B.

Dear Santa, I would like a remote control sleigh that will fly! I would like a remote control four-wheeler too. Can you bring me a bob for apples game? I would also like a remote control person and bear. The bear would bite the person. My brother would like a race car track and a dirt bike, four-wheeler, side by side.

Sebastian F.

Dear Santa, Can I have a Santa phone, new Nike shoes, new Jordans. My sister would like a baby toy and my brother would like a toy motorcycle. How is Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer doing? How is Nugget my elf doing?

Jaelyn R.

Dear Santa, I would like alphabet lores. Thank you Santa! Nicholas E.

Dear Santa, I want a Playstation 5! Can you bring Bella a purple purse? My brothers would like a race track. My mom would like a green purse. Have a great day!

Chaz F.

Dear Santa, I would like a dirt bike, a hoverboard and a motorcycle. My sister would like a Barbie doll with clothes. I like Santa!

Korbyn G.

Dear Santa, I would like a dirt bike. My brother likes a dirt bike too. I have been good at home. Why do you come down the chimney?

Reece P.

Dear Santa, I would like the little magnet balls. Tech Deck finger boards and skate park.

I have been awesome this year!

Cade C.

Dear Santa, I would like a remote control car, some candy and some games. Thank you! Brian G.

Dear Santa, I would like a big squish mello, a new teal and white bike with a basket. I need a white hoodie. You are sweet and kind.

Audrina T.

Dear Santa, I would like a baby doll, a real puppy and a suitcase. I will leave you a cookie with milk.

Malaysia C. Mrs. Morrissette First Grade Bethware Elementary

Dear Santa, For Christmas hope I get a cat plushy, a heating pad, and a new mini elf because my dog chewed mine up.

I have been good by helping my mom and sister and I shared my toys with my friends.

Love, Addy

Dear Santa, I wish I get a remote control alligator, a toy Pteranodon, and a remote control crocodile. I have been really nice to my sister this year.

Love, Everett Dear Santa, I want a hoverboard, a phone, and a magnet set. I really want them and I have been super good and have let my sister play on my tablet.

Love, Corbin

Dear Santa, Can I get this? I want a hoverboard that can fit 2 people, markers, and nail polish. I have been really nice to my brother, been keeping him safe from hot things in the kitchen, and making sure he doesn’t get hurt.

Love, Abigail B

Dear Santa, I really want a football helmet, a football jersey, and a football game for my Nintendo switch. I have been really good. When my brother, mom, or dad fall

down I help them up.

Love, Elijah

Dear Santa, I am going to wish for a baby stroller, a book, and more shoes. I have been helpful by helping my mom with the laundry and doing dishes.

Love, Bella

Dear Santa I really want a teddy bear, an iPad, and a plushy unicorn. I helped my mom put up the Christmas tree this year

Love, Andrea

Dear Santa, I want a four wheeler, an X Box, and a game room. I listen to my mom and dad and I do good at school.

Love, Paxton

Dear Santa, I wish I will get a unicorn pillow, a panda pillow, and a Pete the Cat pillow. I have been helping my mom with the dishes, putting up my clothes, and cleaning my room.

Love, Abigail J.

Dear Santa, For Christmas I wish I could have a gas dirt bike, a football helmet, and a motor cross helmet. I always make sure my baby cousin is staying safe and I help my mom.

Love, Noah

Dear Santa, I wish I had a gaming controller, an X Box, and a game. I clean up my room and help clean the bathroom.

Love, Daquan

Dear Santa, I really want a unicorn pony you can ride on, a toy dog that walks, and an elf of the shelf. I help take care of my baby brother and feed him his bottle.

Love, Milani

Dear Santa, I want a trampoline, a playhouse, and an American Girl Doll. I help my sweep, do the dishes, and pick stuff up.

Love, Natalie

Dear Santa, I want stuff animals, a PS 5, and a gaming set up. I help maw maw do the dishes and cook in the mornings.

Love, Kaiden

Dear Santa, I really want a plushy unicorn, a computer, and soft kitty cat plushy. I help my dad play with my brother, make popcorn, and do chores.

Love, Pricilla

Dear Santa, For Christmas I hope I get a doll house, a pancake set, and a rock set. When I was sick my mom took care of me, so I have been nice taking care of her when she is sick too.

Love, Mia

Dear Santa, I want a monkey box toy for my brother and little squeaky minies and I want some more slime. I have been trying to be so nice to my brother.

Love, Maddisyn

Dear Santa, I hope I get a truck for my brother, slime, and a barbie doll. I have been good and nice to my brother.

Love, Annabelle

Dear Santa, I want some suoerman and spiderman toys. I have been a good boy.

Love, Memphis

Mrs. Smith First Grade North Elementary

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gifts last year. I hope you are doing good. This year I would like a real bunny. I would like to get Zipporah a nintendo switch.

Love, Hannah

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gift last year. This year I would like a pet frog. I wish I could have a nintendo switch.

Love, Jackson

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well.

Thank you for my gifts last year. This year I would like a makeup set and trucks for my babe bruthr and a necklis for my mom.

Love, Bentlee

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gifts last year. I hope you are doing well. This year I want a watch. Me and my sisdr want a hrt neclis and a LOL house.

Love, Serenity

Dear Santa, I want a playstation like Brandyn and a PS4. Caidyn wants vbucks. I love you.

Love, Carsyn

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gifts last year. I hope you are good. This year I want you to bring a dirt bike. I want a gaming setup and a phone. For my friend Wrylen I would like a nintendo.

Love, Aiden

Dear Santa, Thanks for the gifts last year. I would like a four whilr and my friend wants one too.

Love Jayon

Dear Santa, Thank you for my presents last year. This year I want LOLs and a LOL pup. For my mom I want her to get a necklis.

Love, Kensley

Dear Santa, Thanks for the gifts last year. I hope you are good this year. I want to get a makeup set and something for my mom.

Love, Reagan

Dear Santa, Thank you for the gifts last year. I hope you are doing well.. This year I would like a nintendo switch. I want to give presents to my friends.

Love, Zipporah

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gifts last year. This year I would like a stuffed anml and makeup. For my friend Lilly I would like a pink naklis. I love you Santa!

Love, Paisley

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well Santa. This year I would like vbucks 10000 and a Gabby Dream House for my sister.

Love, Jared

Dear Santa, Thank you for what I got last year. I want a goldin Freddy plushe. I want a stranger thing legos. I would like a action figr of Bendy ink demen and of Bendy and the dark refl. Merry Christmas!

Love, Atticus

Dear Santa, I hope you are dooing good this year. I thank you for my gifts; I would like a Barbe and necklas.

Love, Karter

Dear Santa, Thank you for my gifts last year. I hope you are ok this year. This year I would like a meklis for my mom and a ring; I want some makeup for me and a car for my brudar.

Love, Lillian

Dear Santa, This year I would like a fone and a robot. For my friend Aiden I would like to give him a ipad and everyone a toy surprise.

Love, Wrylen

Dear Santa, I love you Santa. I love how you gave me a playstation. Thank you for my gifts last year. I hope you are doing well. This year I would like a baby yoda neklas and a mask. I want a nekls for my mom.

Love, Mason

Dear Santa, I like your randirs. Please bring Ka’Mya a LOL doll. Please bring me a cat.

Love, Arianna

Dear Santa, I like your randeer. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me a lego.

Love, Aiden

Dear Santa, I like your sleigh. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me a baby doll.

Love, Rilee

Dear Santa, I like your randir. Please bring my sister a babe toy. Please bring me a unicorn toy.

Love, Hunter

Dear Santa, I like your sleigh. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me the Lego iron man tower with iron man suits.

Love Noah

Dear Santa, I like your randear. Please bring Hunter a necklace. Please bring me uoonackorn.

Love, Ariella

Dear Santa, I like your sleigh. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me toys.

Love, Isaac

Dear Santa, I like your red soot. Please bring my cusin a ntindo shrich. Please bring me a PS five.

Love, Remi

Dear Santa, I like your red soot. Please bring my Mom a pupe. Please bring me a game.

Love, Brayden

Dear Santa, I like your face. Please bring my friend David a car. Please bring me a necklace.

Love, Graysen

Dear Santa, I like your red nose. Please bring my mom a braslit. Please bring me a toy.

Love, Levi

Dear Santa, I like your randirs. Please bring my Mom a reng. Please bring me a four wilr.

Love, Matthew

Dear Santa, I love you and your randr. Please bring my Dad a pupe. Please bring me a brbe drem home.

Love Zoë

Dear Santa, I like your randear. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me a toy.

Love, David

Dear Santa, I like your randir. Please bring my cusin a futbol. Please bring me a lego tran.

Love, Parke

Dear Santa, I like your hat. Please bring Ka’Mya some slime. Please bring me a kitn.

Love, Jocelyn

Dear Santa, I like your randir. Please bring my Mom a necklace. Please bring me a dog.

Love, Ka’Mya

Dear Santa, I like your cherey nose. Please bring my Mom a ring.

Please bring me some makeup please.

Love, Imani

Dear Santa, I like your deers. Please bring Zoë a babee pupee. Please bring me a babee cat.

Love, Rylee

THE SAVIOUR IS BORN

We Celebrate Christmas

Luke 1

The Birth of Jesus Foretold 26 In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31

You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.”

34”How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called[c] the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. 37 For nothing is impossible with God.”

38”I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.

Mary Visits Elizabeth

39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!”

Mary’s Song

46 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name.

50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.

51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.

54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers.”

Luke 2

The Birth of Jesus

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The

Shepherds and the Angels

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14”Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Mrs. Deason and Ms. Cannedy First Grade North Elementary

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible New International Version

Mountaineers place nine players, coach on All-Conference team

Kings Mountain’s Mountaineers placed nine players on the All-Big South Conference team, including three that were Players of the Year, and Coach Greg Lloyd was voted BSC Coach of the Year for the recently-completed 2022 football season.

First team selections were offensive linemen Isaiah Eskridge and Michael Lubas. First team defensive selections were linemen AJ Richardson and Curtis Simpson and defensive back Jake Lloyd. Richardson was also

selected Defensive Player of the Year, Eskridge was selected Offensive Lineman of the Year and Simpson was named Defensive Lineman of the Year.

Making the second team were running back/defensive back Bryson Brown, running back Teddy Jeffries, quarterback Lamont Littlejohn and receiver/defensive back and return specialist Zavian Smith.

Simpson, who has already received numerous major college offers, Brown,

Big plays late

Kings Mountain freshman Bradley Floyd’s running jumper from the baseline with five seconds remaining in the game, along with his steal of Ashbrook’s inbounds pass capped an exciting 50-48 victory over Ashbrook’s Green Wave in the two teams’ opening Big South 3A Conference battle Friday night at KM’s Don-

ald L. Parker Gymnasium.

A big defensive steal by KM’s Zay Smith with 27.3 seconds remaining resulted in a timeout by the Mountaineers to set up the winning shot and KM’s third win in four games overall.

Kings Mountain’s girls weren’t as fortunate in the opener. Leading by just 38-33 going into the fourth

Jeffries and Smith will return next season to lead the Mountaineers to another run for the conference championship. Richardson, Lubas, Eskridge, Littlejohn and Lloyd will graduate in the spring and hopefully continue their football exploits in the collegiate ranks.

Hunter Huss sophomore Jayden Gash, whose father Daryl played for the Mountaineers in the late eighties and early nineties, made the first team as a return specialist and was also named

The Offensive Player of the Year was Ny’Tavious Huskey of Crest.

First team All Conference:

QB, Ny’Tavious Huskey, Crest.

RB – Carmelo Bess, Ashbrook.

OL – Isaiah Eskridge,

Kings Mountain; Michael Lubas, Kings Mountain; Sullivan Absher, South Point; Tymon Childs, Ashbrook; Myles Jackson, Forestview; Trent Mitchell, Ashbrook.

Athletes – Malachi Addison, Crest; Javarius Green, Crest; Christian Holland, Forestview; Isaiah Johnson, Cramer; Cam Medlock, South Point, Justin Rocquemore, Cramer.

DL – AJ Richardson, KM, Curtis Simpson, KM, See NINE, Page 7B

KM over Green Wave

quarter, Ashbrook outscored the Lady Mountaineers 22-5 to cap a 60-38 victory.

Floyd would finish with 13 points to lead the Mountaineer scoring against a veteran Ashbrook five.

Priest Wilson scored 10, Tucker Robinette eight, Charlie Foster seven, Smith and Kee’Donn Linney four each and Bryson Brown

and Ja’Qualyn Sanders two each. Ashbrook was led by Kenneth Greene with 13 and Jashuan Clark with 10.

The game was close throughout. Neither team could get anything going in the first period. Two free throws by Foster gave the Mountaineers an 11-9 lead heading into the second stanza. KM held the lead

most of the second period but Ashbrook’s Gabriel June ran the baseline for a basket that put the Wave on top 22-21 at the half.

After the Wave built a 32-25 lead in the first three minutes of the third period, the Mountaineers got late baskets by Tucker Robinette and Floyd to go into See PLAYS, Page 7B

KM sweeps R-S Central in basketball

Kings Mountain High’s varsity basketball teams swept RS Central in a non-conference doubleheader last week in Spindale.

The Lady Mountaineers placed four players in double figures in a 63-23 victory and the Mountaineers had four double digit scorers in their 70-64 win.

CoRey Simpson had a double-double for the KM ladies with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Tyasya Bell and Myracle Davis added 12 points each and Farri Martin contributed 10.

Khalia King scored six points, Austyn Dixon and Mia Bridges four each and Jailen Moore one.

The Mountaineers were led by a pair of freshmen as Tucker Robinette scored 16 points and Bradley Floyd added 14 points and nine rebounds. Kee’Don Linney scored 11 points and Thomas Spicer 10. Priest Wilson barely missed double digits with nine points.

Other KM scorers were Zay Smith with four points and Ja’Qualyn Sanders and Charlie Foster with three each.

The Mountaineers led 21-15 after the first quarter but were behind 37-35 at the break. The teams were tied at 51-all heading into the fourth quarter when the Mountaineers outscored the Hilltoppers 19-13 to capture their second straight win.

KM ladies win, men lose at EG

Kings Mountain High’s basketball teams split a non-conference doubleheader at East Gaston Thursday night, the girls winning 41-25 and the boys falling 58-48.

Eight different players scored for the Lady Mountaineers as they ran their record to 3-0. Alayna Patrick led the way with 10 points.

Myracle Davis and CoRey Simpson scored eight points each, Austyn Dixon six, Khalia King four, Farri Martin and Mia Bridges two each and Tyasya Bell one.

The Mountaineers trailed almost the entire game. The Warriors led 16-10 after the first quarter and then held the Mountaineers to just three points in the second period to go up 31-13 at intermission. They led 38-28 going into See EG, Page 7B

Special Teams Player of the Year. He returned the opening kickoff in the Huss at Kings Mountain game which was the only time the Mountaineers were behind in a regular season game.

ISAIAH ESKRIDGEMICHAEL LUBAS

BRYSON BROWN

AJ RICHARDSON

TEDDY JEFFRIES

CURTIS SIMPSON

LAMONT LITTLEJOHN

JAKE LLOYD

ZAVIAN SMITHCOACH GREG LLOYD

Mountaineers’

Bradley Floyd drives the lane in Friday’s exciting 50-48 win over Gastonia Ashbrook Friday at KMHS.

Photos by Gary Smart

KM’s Khalia King fires for two of her team-leading 13 points in Friday’s game with Gastonia Ashbrook at Parker Gym.

KM Middle VB going for championship

tory over East Rutherford.

Winners of the East Division, Coach Lindsay Ellis’s KM ladies took an undefeated record into the game and was playing in the overall conference championship for the fourth straight year.

The top-seeded KM ladies advanced to the finals Thursday with a 25-12, 25-8, 25-10 first round vic-

Kings Mountain was led by Campbell Benton with 11 service points, six aces, two digs and 14 kills; Avaclaire Moss with five service points, an ace, a dig and 18 assists; Avery Cruise with 17 service points, five aces, 15 digs, an assist and a kill; Jillian Patton with 14 service points, five aces, 15 digs, four assists and a kill; Ava Broome with five service points and 14 digs, and Jaylee Woodward with five kills.

PLAYS

From Page 6B

the final quarter up 37-34.

Ashbrook scored the first two baskets of the fourth quarter to take a 38-37 lead.

KM got even at 43-all on a basket by Floyd with three minutes remaining, and went on top 46-43 on a bucket by Sanders with 2:14 left.

Ashbrook regained the lead at 48-46 on a bucket by Jashuan Clark with 1:13 remaining but Brown’s baseline runner knotted the score at 48-all with 1:13 to play. Ashbrook was whistled for a

charge with a minute left but got the ball back following a KM missed shot. The Green Wave was running the clock down for a last shot of their own but Smith made the steal of the game to set up a time out and Floyd’s late heroics.

The girls’ game was just as close and exciting in the first three periods, but Ashbrook proved itself to be a championship contender by dominating the fourth quarter.

After KM got off to a 5-3 lead on two baskets by Khalia King, the visitors got on track and led 18-15 at the quarter break. Consecutive threes by King got the KM

ladies back on top 21-19 but Ashbrook answered with buckets by Tori Brooks and Madison Cole to regain the lead at 23-21. The visitors wouldn’t trail again.

Down 37-26 at the half, KM rallied behind buckets by King, CoRey Simpson and Alayna Patrick to pull to within 38-33 heading into the fourth period. Ashbrook began pressing on defense and turned the game into a rout.

King led the KM scoring with 13 points. Simpson had a double-double with 11 points and 16 rebounds. Patrick added seven points, Bell two and Myracle Davis four.

EGFrom Page 6B

the fourth quarter.

Bradley Floyd was KM’s only double digit scorer with 14 points. Kee’Don Linney added eight, Zay Smith, Ja’Qualyn Sanders and Priest Wilson six each, and Tucker Robinette four.

Connor Rankin and T Sherrill led the Warriors with 20 and 13 points, respectively. McCaskill Rivers scored nine, Hoell six, Jayce Rowe five and Velon Rivers and Logan Teno two each.

NINE

From Page 6B

Devon Biggers, Ashbrook, Davonyae Pettus, Crest.

LB – Daimean Fernandez, Cramer, Dezmun Porter, Crest, James Taylor, Huss.

DB – Jake Lloyd, KM, Gene Neely, Huss, Will Ross, South Point, Sincere Sanders-Moss, Ashbrook.

Specialists – Charlie Birtwistle, SP, Jayden Gash, Huss, JJ Gordon, North Gaston.

Second team: Bryson Brown, KM,

Teddy Jeffries, KM, Lamont Littlejohn, KM, Zavian Smith, KM, AJ Adams, Crest, Nathaniel Aguilar, Forestview, Patrick Blee, South Point, Noah Comer, Forestview, Chaynce Ford, South Point, Derek Mitchell, Crest, Christian Mixter, Forestview, Kenneth Odugba, Forestview, Jaquis Rumph, South Point, Josh Smith, North Gaston, Hudson Spargo, South Point, Tyler Ward, Cramer.

Kings Mountain Middle School’s volleyball team was hosting North Lincoln for the Tri-County Conference championship Tuesday afternoon.

Marty Lovingood signs a scholarship to continue his cross country and track career at Cleveland Community College. He is pictured in front row with his father Eddie Lovingood, mother Cheryl Lovingood and brother Justin Lovingood. Back row, left to right, KMHS athletic director Matt Bridges, CCC coach Steve McCachren, KMHS XC and track coach Rayvis Key, and KMHS assistant principal Melissa Wilson. Photo by Gary Smart

Alayna Patrick fires a jumper over the Ashbrook defense in Friday’s Big South opener at Parker Gym. Photos by Gary Smart

KM’s Bryson Brown is fouled as he goes inside against the Ashbrook defense in Friday’s BSC opener at KMHS.

KM’s Charlie Foster is hammered as he goes up for a jumper in Friday’s game with Ashbrook.

KM’s CoRey Simpson goes inside against the Ashbrook defense in Friday’s Big South opener at KMHS.

New Mountaineer head coach Andrew Fann keeps a close

KM’s Tucker Robinette breaks for the inside against the Ashbrook defense.

KM’s Myracle Davis puts up a long jumper in Friday’s game

KM’s Tyasya Bell is hammered as she goes inside on the Ashbrook defense.

Thomas Spicer is trapped by two Ashbrook defenders in Friday’s game at KMHS.

or faxed to 704.434.6438 (704) 434-6431 pleasant. ridge@att.net

GENERAL MAINTANENCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704-473-4299. (704) 473-4299

ONE ON ONE CARE. Is hiring for Direct Support Professional/ DSP for full/part time on 2nd shift. Transport experience recommended not required. Apply in person at 203 Lee St, Shelby NC

NEED A CAR DISMANTLER. Auto Parts of Shelby. Apply in person at 1021 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152 704487-5234 (704) 472-4666

NEED A PARTS SALESPERSON. Auto Parts of Shelby. 1021 County Home Road, Shelby, NC 28152 704-487-5234.

PART TIME BOX TRUCK DRIVER and part time CDL Class A driver. Off weekends. Apply at Hardin’s Rental; 365 Oak Street Extension, Forest City or call 828-286-7871 ext. 4.

COMPLETE CARE INC. Is seeking CNAs / In Home Aides for Cleveland and Gaston Counties. Apply M-F, 8am-4pm at 404 W. Warren St, Shelby, NC 28150 or call (704) 4809340

BUSINESS SERVICES

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

RAGE 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. 704477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

BUSINESS SERVICES

YARD BUDDY. Outdoor work such as trimming bushes, small trees, spraying weeds, gutter cleaning. General property clean-up. No grass cutting or leaves. Serving Shelby & Cleveland County. (980) 2950750

JAMES BALLARD PAINTING SERVICE. Paint Kitchen Cabinets only. Pre-estimated price. References available. 828-4297511 or 828-429-3743. Ask for James.

PRESSURE CLEANING NEEDED. Must provide own electric and water, 14x70 ft. mobile home near Ellenboro. 828435-5746.

HOMEOWNERS, CONTRACTORS, REAL ESTATE AGENTS, need a little work? Jackson Corbin Property Services, LLC. Specializing in small jobs/punch list. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, tile, etc. Need a hand for a day or two? Give me a call. Professional quality work, affordable prices. 828-980-1823 or email jacksoncorbin71@gmail.com

USED & NEW MOBILITY

CHAIRS From $475. Call Scooterman John @ NC Mobility Services 704-951-4224

WILL CLEAN HOUSES. Want your house to sparkle and shine for the holidays then give me a call. Call or text me at 704-419-9016 or email me at sgacsa@aol.com (704) 419-9016

TRIPLE D PAINTING, LLC. All your painting needs. Free estimates. Over 25 yrs experience! Facial board replacement available!!! Many local references available !! (704) 418-5736 childresstracy1@gmail.com

J DOUGLAS TREE SERVICE LLC. Tree removal, trimming, 24 hour emergency service, 20% discount to Seniors, First Responders, Police Officers. 704-276-1114.

CONCRETE SPECIALTIES. Driveways, patios, slabs, sidewalks, Bobcat work. Kelvin Carter 864-590-8054.

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION, site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, pruning, planting, excavator work. 828-453-8113.

CUSTOM BUILT PLAY SETS. Metal/Tarp roof. Playhouse, Sandbox, Swings, Slides, Rock Climbs and more. Delivery available. Union Mills, NC. 301491-3174.

CAROLINA BARN AND SHED PICKER! Do you have a Barn, Garage, or Shed full of antiques or lost treasures your looking to get rid of? CALL ME! I have a trailer if you have larger items. Serving Cleveland and Gaston County and surrounding areas. Tim 1-661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 saveyourearth@live.com

NO-BUG CHRISTMAS! Bob’s Pest Control. Yard sprays only. Ants, fire ants, yellow jackets, roaches, mice, rats. 704-6897024.

WARREN AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE. State of the Art Diagnostics for Major or Minor Repairs.Trusted & Skilled Mechanics. Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 6 (828) 748-8050

HANDYMAN. All rental and residential services. No job

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY ESTATE SALE/HOUSE CLEAN OUT SALE TWO DAYS: DECEMBER 15TH, 2022 (THURSDAY) FROM 10AM- 12PM AND DECEMBER 17TH, 2022 (SATURDAY) FROM 10AM-12PM. FURNITURE, DISHES, COLLECTIBLES AND MORE! at 313 EAST KING STREET, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

ANTIQUES

NOW UNTIL CHRISTMAS. Open 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sat. Closed Sunday & Monday. Farm House Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage Toys, Hot Wheels, Jewelry, Christmas and MORE. 985 US 74 Business Hwy., Ellenboro. Find us on FB. 828-382-0075.

FOR SALE

DOZENS ENCLOSED TRAILERS 10% OFF. CASH or CREDIT CARD. “We also Rent to Own” No Credit Check! J Johnson Sales 828-245-5895. Located at 2690 US Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC.

ALL ENCLOSED TRAILERS 10% OFF! 8.5’ x 36’ Enclosed Auto Carrier (Three 7k Axels) with Heat & A/C was $47,900 Repo Price $31,000 til Dec. 23rd. J Johnson Sales, Forest City, NC. Ph. 828-245-5895

DOG KENNELS $449.99 NOW $399.99 til Dec. 23rd, 2022. Dog House was $150.00 NOW $100.00 til Dec. 23rd. “Delivery & Setup is Available!” J Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 US Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC. Ph. 828-551-7176

NEVER BEFORE 10% OFF “ALL” Carports, Garages & RV Covers. Now thru Dec. 23rd. J Johnson Sales in Forest City, NC. Ph. 828-245-5895

INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE NOW THRU DEC. 23rd, 2022! All Buildings & Trailers 10% Off! New, Used, Repos 10% Off! Save 100’s to 1000’s. J Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 US Hwy. 221 South, Forest City 828-245-5895

BIG CHRISTMAS SALE. Fri., Sat., & Sun. Dec. 9, 10 & 11. All kinds of toys, ride-ons and bicycles. All new stuff. No pallets or returns. Sheets, socks, blankets. Sandy Mush beside OHM, across from Fire Dept. Questions/directions 828-7554129. (828) 755-4129

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

FREE MILITARY GRADE TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT Free! Military Grade Tactical Flashlight with self-defense features, 3 brightness levels, window breakage aspect - NC4Ever@ usa.com

ITEMS FOR SALE Stiel Power Auger with 2 attachments-$175, Electric Pole Chainsaw-$95, Draft Beer Refrigerator-5 Kegs and 3 Beer Gas Bottles and many accessories-$185, Weight Bench w/bar & weights-$125. 828-286-8093.

NEW BEE KEEPING PROTECTIVE GEAR Helmet with vail-$15, Gloves-$10/pair, Suit with vail-$65. Limited sizes and quanity available. 828-9801823.

GREAT FOR GIFTS OR COLLECTING SILVER, GOLD & COINS! SILVER Bars & Rounds 1Oz., 5 Oz.,10 Oz., 32 Oz., 50 Oz.. and 2022 Silver Eagles. GOLD 1 Gram, 2.5 Grams, 5 Grams, 10 Grams, 1/10 Oz., 1/4 Oz., 1/2 Oz. & 1 Oz. “We Buy, Sell & Trade”! Jake’s Knives Coins, Collectibles & Antiques located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Call 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

STORAGE BUILDING FOR SALE. 10x16 Barn Style Roof and Door, 2 Lofts, 2 Windows, Metal roof. $4,000 or OBO. 704-718-1035.

PURE RAW LOCAL HONEY. $20 quart, $12 pint. Produced in Rutherford County. Comb honey $24 quart. Call/text Jackson Corbin 828-980-1823.

FOR SALE

BRAND NEW 16’ ALUMNUM Walk Board, $200. (1) 1000 watt generator, new, $100. Call 704-530-7576

FIREWOOD FOR SALE Truck and Trailer Loads. $50 - $75. Can Deliver. 704-466-7623.

OLD GAMBLING MACHINE $150. Would make a good man cave piece. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

1999 DODGE 1500. $800. I have ‘99 Dodge pickup, been wrecked, has some good body parts, has good 360 engine and new radiator. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

ASSORTMENT OF CHILTON REPAIR MANUALS. I have a large assortment of Chilton Auto Repair Manuals. Some are imports and trucks. Some Motor Manuals all are hard back copies. Best Offer! (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net

CEMETERY LOT AVAILABLE. VETERANS CIRCLE, GASTON MEMORIAL PARK. Reduced price. Call or text (919) 272-5503

TRACTORS, EQUIPMENT, RIDING MOWERS, GARDEN TILLERS, GO-KARTS. Ready to mow. All in excellent condition. Can deliver, 30+ years experience in repair work. 828980-0853, 704-476-9383.

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

WANT TO BUY

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

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

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

WANT TO BUY. Low mileage Buick, Toyota, Honda or reasonable priced vehicle. Can receive voicemail but NO TEXTS. (980) 745-5396

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

DANNY’S AUTOWERKS. Buying used or junk cars. Competitive prices. Call Danny 828-2893081 or Jimmy 828-289-1175.

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

CHRISTMAS PUPPIES! AKC LABRADORS. One chocolate male, one black male, two black females remaining. 8 weeks old. Parents on site. Vet-checked, dewormed, first shots $800. Call or text (704) 473-4891

POMERANIAN CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. 1 male, 1 female, 1 longhaired, 1 shorthaired. UTD shots & worming, 8 wks old. $400. (828) 460-5372

AKC REGISTERED CANE CORSO PUPS. Ready to go. All shots UTD. For more info, contact Ronnie (704) 974-2716

GOLDENDOODLE PUPPIES F1B GoldenDoodle Puppies looking for their forever homes. Located in Shelby, NC. They were born on October 21, 2022 to an F1 GoldenDoodle and a Standard Poodle. Both parents are on sight. We currently have 4 sweet girls (Chocolate, Tan, Black & Champaign) and 5 handsome boys (Tan, 2 Chocolate, 2 Pardi). These are very sweet and intelligent dogs. We are asking for a $1000 rehoming fee. They will be the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones! (704) 473-7057 office.shelby@gmail.com

CKC REGISTERED MINIATURE DACHSHUND. 9 week old male. 1st shots, wormed, black, brown, tan. (704) 3007225

MINIATURE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE FOR SALE. 20+ pieces with boxes. (704) 739-7201

10 TON HAND PUNCH $75. Heavy duty bench drill press $75. Fuel oil tank $60. Various wood carvings. 828-305-3123.

1 LOT WITH 4 ADJOINING PLOTS. $3900. Located in Rose Hill Cemetery in Fallston, NC. (704) 472-5682

SMALL KIDS MINI-BIKE $350. Small kids 4 wheeler $450. 2006 Harley $5,000. All garage kept. 828-247-0506.

USED CAMPER TOPS: BUY/ SALE/TRADE. Various sizes and styles. 828-980-0788.

DEER CORN, 50 POUND BAG. $11. Callahan Farms. Cletus: 704-300-5341; Steve: 704-472-8865; Todd: 704-6921627

PETS & LIVESTOCK

RUTHERFORD

BONDED, 4 & 5 MONTH old kittens. Beautiful colors: calico, grey/white, black/white, and ebony. Playful. Fully vetted. No fee, but bet reference. 704-6007142

AKC REGISTERED LABRADOR

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 23rd day of November, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of PANSY H. SELLERS; AKA, PANSY HALLMAN SELLERS; AKA, PANSY ELLEN HALLMAN SELLERS, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Charles Blenard Sellers, Executor, on or before the 2nd of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of November, 2022.

Charles Blenard Sellers, Executor Estate of: Pansy H. Sellers; aka, Pansy Hallman Sellers; aka, Pansy Ellen Hallman Sellers 246 Sellers Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (11/30, 12/07, 14 & 21/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 23rd day of November, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of J.L. SELLERS, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Charles Blenard Sellers, Executor, on or before the 2nd of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of November, 2022.

Charles Blenard Sellers, Executor Estate of: J.L. Sellers 246 Sellers Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (11/30, 12/07, 14 & 21/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK In the Matter of the Estate of: KAREN TESSENEER MACOMSON, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS and DEBTORS

Having qualified on the 10th day of November, 2022 as Executor of the Estate of Karen Tesseneer Macomson, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 8th day of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 7th day of December, 2022

BRANDON LEE MULL 636 S. POST RD. SHELBY, NC 28152

KM (12/7, 12/14, 12/21, & 12/28/22)

& LIVESTOCK

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE

OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 9th day of November, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of ROBERT BREVARD CALLAHAN, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Derrick Eugene Callahan, Administrator, on or before the 23rd of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of November, 2022.

Derrick Eugene Callahan, Administrator Estate of: Robert Brevard Callahan 2917 Wood Rd Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (11/23, 30, 12/07, 14/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 8th day of December, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of LAURA BELL VAUGHN, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Daphne Petty, Executrix, on or before the 15th of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of December, 2022.

Daphne Petty, Executrix Estate of: Laura Bell Vaughn 111 Ridgewood St Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (12/14, 21, 28/2022 & 1/04/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 15th day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of RUBY S. PRICE, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Jacquelyn H. Price, Executrix, on or before the 23rd of February, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 23rd day of November, 2022.

Jacquelyn H. Price, Executrix Estate of: Ruby S. Price PO Box 310 Bostic, NC 28018

KMH (11/23, 30, 12/07, 14/2022)

CARS & TRUCKS

No batteries. (828) 453-0828

CAMPERS

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

VACATIONS

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

OCEAN LAKES MYRTLE BEACH. Cottage N34. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, den, kitchen, dining, covered deck, near country store. Call Dorcas, 803-718-2659.

MOBILE HOMES

1997 HORTON SINGLEWIDE. Completely remodeled inside and out. 2 bedroom, 2 bath. All appliances stay. Unfurnished, $28,000. (828) 4484303

REAL ESTATE

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

2BR, 2BA, 1100SF, heat pump, 10 acres partly wooded, rolling, secluded, pond. $249,000. Text 828-919-1477 or leave message. Additional 14 acres available. 342 Right Prong Road, Ellenboro, NC. Ellenboro, NC 28040

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 31st day of October, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of PATRICIA A. ROSS; A/K/A, PATRICIA POOLE ROSS, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Tammy Pearson, Executrix, on or before the 15th of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of December, 2022.

Tammy Pearson, Executrix Estate of: Patricia A. Ross; a/k/a, Patricia Poole Ross 124 Kelly Jo Lane Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (12/14, 21, 28/2022 & 1/04/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: JEANNE B. ESKRIDGE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS and DEBTORS

Having qualified on the 21st day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of Jeanne B. Eskridge, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administrator on or before the 1st day of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 30th day of November, 2022

LYDIA WILSON 1112 BLENHEIM DR RALEIGH, NC 27612

KM (11/30, 12/6, 12/13, 12/20/22)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 1st of December, 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of GREGORY CLAYTON OLMSTEAD, 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, Cindy M. Spearman, Administratrix on or before the 7th of March, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 7th day of December, 2022.

Cindy M. Spearman, Administratrix Estate of Gregory Clayton Olmstead 1834 Stony Point Road Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (12/07, 14, 21 & 28/2022)

FOR RENT CLEVELAND COUNTY

FOR RENT

MOBILE HOMES

APARTMENTS. In

Mountain. P. Call (704) 739-4417 117 GARVER STREET LAWNDALE, NC. 2 BR, 1 BA, Central Heat & Air, big back

NO PETS, non-smokers

Criminal background

$600/mth,

$350 deposit. Contact Tommy Wilson, w/ Clay & Associates Real Estate. Call: 704-418-1251. 2&3 BEDROOM TOWN HOMES. Townhomes located in Shelby, NC. We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Rent is based on income (and some expenses are deducted). Please visit us today at Laurel Hill Apartments 1526 Eaves Rd., Shelby NC or call for more information 704-487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

LIONS SENIOR VILLAGE has1 bedroom HUD subsidized apartments for low income seniors. Taking applications. Age 62 or older. Equal Housing Opportunity. 211 North Morgan Street, Shelby, NC (704) 482-7723

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

COUNTRY LIVING, POLKVILLE. 2 bedroom farmhouse. 2 acres, central heat/air. No Smoking or Pets. Not HAP eligible! $575. (704) 487-5480

1233 S LAFAYETTE ST, Shelby, NC, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Rent $1650, Deposit $1650. Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

1624-2 S POST ROAD, Shelby, NC, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Rent $1100, Deposit $1100, Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

1038 CASAR BELWOOD RD, Casar, NC. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathrooms. Rent $1450, Deposit $1450, Application fee $25. 704-214-4180.

FISHERMAN’S SPECIAL. FULLY FURNISHED. 2 bedroom cottge on Lake Houser with pier and boathouse, $1000 mo. (704) 472-6280

113-2 OAK DRIVE LAWNDALE, NC. 2 bedroom, 1 bath. Rent 900, Deposit $900, Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

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.

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

COMFY AND VERY CLEAN 2-Bedroom, 2 full baths, bonus room. Large private lot not in park. New plush carpet, new paint and master bath. Fridge, new range and water included. No pets. No smoking. $750 mo. Email exxona@yahoo. com for pictures.

2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Small private park between Spindale and Forest City. Starting at $550 per month. 828-382-0475.

2 BAY SHOP & GRILL for lease. Low rent. 4982 US Highway 64, Union Mills, 28167. Contact Devinder 864533-1353.

YORK CO., SC

ALL GOOSENECKS & EQUIPMENT TRAILERS. 25 Ft. Gooseneck 10 Ton was $16,900 NOW $15,200 “Only 1 at this price til Dec. 23rd” J Johnson Sales, inc. 2690 US Hwy. 221 South, Forest City, NC. Ph. 828-245-5895

Enough is enough: Bad behavior by coaches, parents and fans must stop

By Dr. Karissa Niehoff, Chief Executive Officer of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), and Que Tucker, Commissioner of the

There’s an unfortunate trend continuing in North Carolina and across the nation that must be stopped: the bad behavior of coaches, parents and fans at high school athletic events.

We’ve all seen it: the yelling, harassing, berating, dis-

respecting and even physically assaulting high school referees, umpires and other officials during and after games. And oftentimes, the harassment continues on social media.

QUE TUCKER KARISSA NIEHOFF

Perhaps you’ve witnessed it firsthand or even been one of those offenders yourself. Not only is this behavior

LEGAL NOTICE

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

CLERK

In the Matter of the Estate of: DONALD RAY POWELL, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS and DEBTORS

Having qualified on the 5th day of December, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of Donald Ray Powell, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administrator on or before the 16th day of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 14th day of December, 2022

Donald Christopher Powell, Adm 909 Oak Grove Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KM (12/14, 12/21, 12/28/22, & 1/4/23)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: JOHN HOGUE GJELHAUG, Deceased File No. 22 E 382

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22 E 382 Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of John Hogue Gjelhaug, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said John Hogue Gjelhaug to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jessica G. Morton, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 301-A E. Warren Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 8th day of March, 2023 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 7th day of December, 2022. Jessica G. Morton, Administratrix of the Estate, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 301A E. Warren Street, Shelby, NC 28150 KM (12/07, 12/14, 12/21 & 12/28/2022)

unacceptable and embarrassing, but it’s also having serious consequences on the future of high school

That’s because another unfortunate trend is sweeping the nation: a critical shortage of high school officials in every state. The #1 reason? You guessed it: coaches, parents and fans mistreating officials.

National surveys of officials report alarming statis-

tics: 55% of officials say verbal abuse from coaches, parents and fans is the #1 reason they quit.

59% don’t feel respected.

57% think sportsmanship is getting worse.

84% feel officials are treated unfairly by spectators.

46% have felt unsafe or feared for their safety due to spectator, coach, administrator or player behavior.

Officials are quitting faster than new ones are signing up. It’s a major area of concern for states like North Carolina just to cover games. We’re already seeing middle school

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th day of October, 2022 as Administrator of the Estate of VICKY DARLENE DUKES, deceased, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned, Brenton S. Begley, Administrator, on or before the 2nd of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 30th day of November, 2022.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator Estate of: Vicky Darlene Dukes McINTYRE ELDER LAW 233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (11/30, 12/07, 14 & 21/2022)

LEGAL NOTICE

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: RODGER T. MCDANIEL, aka RODGER TALMADGE MCDANIEL, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 30th day of November, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of Rodger T. McDaniel aka Rodger Talmadge McDaniel, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 9th day of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 7th day of December, 2022 Cynthia M. Smith, Ex 129 Uley Branch Road Dallas, NC 28034

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

KM (12/7, 12/14, 12/21, & 12/28/22)

and JV games being cancelled and, in some cases, varsity games too. All because there aren’t enough officials.

Unfortunately, bad behavior at high school athletic events has become normalized. It is almost expected that coaches, parents and fans will disrespect the individuals serving as officials.

This culture of bad behavior and the negative perception of officials must change now. Everyone involved in high school sports—parents, coaches, administrators, fans, the media—must turn their focus to the student-athletes playing the games and away from the individuals officiating the contests.

The bottom line: With no

high school officials, there can be no high school sports.

That’s why the NFHS is partnering with state high school associations across the country to launch the nationwide #BenchBadBehavior campaign. We’ll use the power of social media along with other tools to help educate everyone about the importance of good behavior at high school athletic events.

You can help by being a positive role model at your high school’s athletic events. And if you think you have what it takes to be a licensed official, sign up today at HighSchoolOfficials.com and help fill an urgent need in North Carolina!

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: MARY ELLEN HARRIS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS and DEBTORS

Having qualified on the 7th day of December, 2022 as Executrix of the Estate of Mary Ellen Harris, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executor on or before the 15th day of March, 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This the 14th day of December, 2022

MYRA GETTYS 1459 UNION CHURCH ROAD SHELBY, NC 28150

KM (12/14, 12/21, 12/28/22, & 1/4/23)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX

Having qualified on 1st of December, 2022 as Administratrix of the Estate of Billy Gene Lovelace (20 E 940), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to A. Susan Biggers, Administratrix, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before March 15, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 14th day of December, 2022.

A. Susan Biggers Administratrix of the Estate of Billy Gene Lovelace Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (12/14, 21, 28/2022 & 1/04/2023)

By JIM MILLER Editor

Little Known Property-Tax Relief Programs Help Seniors Save

Dear Savvy Senior,

I recently learned about a property-tax relief program for seniors in the county where I live. Apparently, there are hundreds of these programs across the country that many retirees, like me, are eligible for but don’t know about. What can you tell me about this?

Overtaxed Eddie

Dear Eddie,

Great question! Residential property-tax refund and credit programs exist in nearly every state, but unfortunately few people know about them. These programs can help retirees and many other Americans by reducing their property taxes. Here’s what you should know.

Rising Property Taxes

Property taxes are a major source of income for local governments, but while they help fund key public services, they can be a financial drain for many homeowners, especially retirees, many of whom live on fixed incomes.

According to Attom Data Solutions, a property-data provider, the average American household payed $3,785 in property taxes in 2021, but this amount varies widely depending on your state’s tax rate and your home’s estimated value. For example, New Jersey residents paid $9,476 per year on average in 2021, while West Virginia residents paid $901.

To help ease this tax burden, most states offer a number of property-tax relief programs. But states aren’t always proactive in letting people know. It’s up to you, the homeowner, to find out what’s available in your county or city that you may be eligible for, and to apply.

Relief Programs

Property tax relief programs, sometimes called exemptions, release eligible homeowners from paying some or all of their property tax obligation. How long the exemption lasts can vary depending on where you live, and the reason you’re applying for the exemption.

The tax-relief process varies by county, city or state. In general, you’ll have to meet certain eligibility requirements, submit an application and provide documents that support your request. Most programs will either reduce, waive or freeze property taxes for seniors, veterans, surviving spouses, disabled and low-income residents.

But there are some counties that also offer basic homestead exemptions to homeowners regardless of age or income, and others that may provide exemptions to homeowners that have recently made energy-efficient improvements to their home.

Where to Look

The best way to learn about local property-tax relief programs and their eligibility requirements is to visit your county, city or state website that collects your property tax. Most of these sites also provide applications and instructions, and will allow you to apply either online, by mail or at your local tax office.

Another good resource for locating programs in your area is the Lincoln Institute, which has a property-tax database that lets you to browse programs across the country. To access it go to ResidentialPropertyTaxReliefPrograms.org.

AARP may also be able to help through their Property Tax-Aide service – see PTAconsumers.aarpfoundation.org. This free program, which is available in 13 states (Arizona, Colorado, Florida–Miami Dade County, Illinois-Cook County, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York and North Carolina) and the District of Columbia helps eligible homeowners and renters apply for relief.

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.

North Carolina High School Athletic Assocation