Green Tree Apartments fire claims a fatality
In the early morning of April 30, shortly after 4:00 a.m., the Kings Mountain Police Department received multiple emergency calls reporting a structural fire at the Green Tree Apartments, at 612 Charles Street. Upon arrival, the Kings Mountain Fire Department found one of the apartment buildings fully engulfed in flames. Immediate firefighting efforts were initiated; however, two (2) apartments were destroyed, and six (6) suffered extensive smoke and water damage, leaving several families displaced.
In a statement, the Police Department said, “Tragically, after the fire was brought under control and a thorough search was conducted, one fatality was confirmed at the scene, identified as Evelyn Blakeney, 45, of Kings Mountain. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and loved ones affected by this loss. We are thankful that the American Red Cross arrived to assist.”
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the following agencies
for their swift response and mutual assistance during this difficult incident: Oak Grove Volunteer Fire Department, Crowders Mountain Fire Department, Bethlehem Fire Department, Grover Fire Department, Kings Mountain Police Department, Cleveland County EMS, Cleveland County Fire Marshal’s Office, Kings Mountain Energy Services, and the Cleveland County Sheriff’s
Department Chaplain,” the statement continued.
A follow-up email from the department shared, “The apartment building in question did not have a sprinkler system installed. Due to the severity of the fire, no smoke detectors were recovered from the wreckage of the affected units. However, it is important to note that adjacent apartments within the same building were
found to have smoke detectors installed.”
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing and is being conducted jointly by the Cleveland County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Kings Mountain Police Department. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444.
Major Joseph Maner makes his last flyover
On April 28, Major Joseph Maner completed his final flight in a C-17 during a flyover at Shelby–Cleveland County Regional Airport, watched by his father, Bobby Maner, along with friends and family.
“Joseph called on Sunday night to tell us that he would be making his last flight as a C-17 pilot for the Air Force,” Bobby said. “He chose the route and performed a flyover of Shelby Airport early Monday afternoon. He made two passes before continuing to Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and then back to his station in Charleston. C-17s are too large to land at Shelby Airport.”
Charleston, his son, Shep, assisted the aircraft marshaller in guiding him as he parked the C-17 for the last time.
Joseph has served 11 years in the United States Air Force. He reported to flight school in January 2014 and earned his wings in July 2015. After three years of flying C-17s in Charleston, he became an instructor pilot at Vance AFB in Oklahoma for another three years before returning to Charleston. He is expected to retire soon and plans to fly for American Airlines.
“Very few people ever get a job they truly love,” Bobby shared. “He’s living his dream.”
New “Be Like Bob” Award named for Bob Smith III
Among many awards & scholarships to be given to Seniors at KMHS’s annual Awards Ceremony on May 19 will be a new one for a junior student to honor Bob Smith III, who died earlier this year from lifelong complications of Hodgkin’s lymphoma he endured as a teenager. The “Be Like Bob Smith” Award was established by dear friends of Kings Mountain civic leader Mary Wade Smith to honor her son’s legacy of kindness, wisdom, and faith. Bob graduated from KMHS and earned degrees in journalism at UNC-Chapel Hill and later in architecture at UNC-Charlotte. He served as president of Talley & Smith Architecture in Shelby, designing a host of schools, municipal buildings, businesses, and homes in Cleveland County and beyond. He was married to Lisa Toms Smith of Boiling Springs for twenty-five years.
Donors to the Be Like Bob award seek to recognize a rising senior each year who exhibits civic spirit, humility, kindness, and the ability to persist with dignity and grace through adversity. Awardees must be good students academically and also show promise for a meaningful career and a lifetime of service to others. The award includes a $500 scholarship for higher education, which will be given annually for ten years.
“We wanted a tangible and meaningful way to keep Bob’s unique
spirit alive in the hearts of students at KHMS, choosing to include a class officer in the selection committee each year. Students know how to choose who among their peers is deserving of this award,” said Laura Carpenter Bingham, who spoke for the five founding donors.
“We hope others will make tax-deductible contributions so we can keep it going for years to come,” Shirley Brutko says. Gifts should be mailed to the “Be Like Bob Smith Award” c/o Cleveland County Schools Educational Foundation, 400 West Marion St., Suite 221A, Shelby, NC 28150. “Bob was calm and quiet and never wanted to be in the spotlight. He said he had had a good life and was ready to go if that was God’s will. He attended Boys State, Governors School, Presidential Classroom in DC, and was picked to study in Italy one summer with other architectural students,” his mother, Mary Wade, shared. “Becky Champion said all the teachers wanted Bob in their classes. He and Pam Hatch were #1 in their class of 372 students. They battled back and forth each week. He was elected student body president when he returned home from four months at Bowman Gray in Winston-Salem with Hodgkin’s Disease in 1980.”
Mary Wade shared with the Herald her appreciation for her friend’s meaningful tribute to her son.
National Day of Prayer
By Loretta Cozart
When he returned to
Joseph is the son of Bobby and Susan Maner. He is married to Stephanie, whose parents are Paul and Allison Houser of Kings Mountain. Joseph and Stephanie have two children, Shep and Stella.
National Day of Prayer: On Thursday, May 1, at noon, a National Day of Prayer ceremony was held at The Gazebo in Patriots Park. The event included music and prayers from local pastors and community leaders. The community gathered under the Gazebo to protect them from the noontime sun, some seeking shelter beneath the
beautiful canopy of trees nearby. Kings Mountain Police Department’s color guard presented the colors. Mayor Wagman spoke, welcoming guests. Chief Childress addressed the crowd and led the pledge to the flag. Ministers, lay people, and community leaders participated in the ceremony. The National Day of Prayer is an annual day
See National Day Prayer
3A
Green Tree Apartments Fire on April 30.
Photo by Jennifer Lynn
Loretta Cozart
Major Joseph Maner flies over Shelby - Cleveland Regional Airport during his last flight in the Airforce.
Photo by Bobby Maner
Shep Maner assisted the aircraft marshaller in guiding his father as he parked the C-17 for the last time.
Photo by Bobby Maner
Dream Flights 2025 gave veterans a chance to soar in the skies again
Loretta Cozart
The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, CCSO, participated in Dream Flights 2025, a program celebrating the bravery and service of our nation’s veterans at the Cleveland County Airport in Shelby
ible program honors these heroes by allowing them to take to the skies again in a beautifully restored aircraft from history.
“Among the highlights was the stunning PT-17 airplane—a true symbol of perseverance and freedom,” the CCSO shared on Meta.
aviation history served as a trainer for WWII pilots, and their stories of courage continue to inspire us today.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to support and celebrate our veterans alongside this iconic aircraft. Join us in honoring those who’ve served,” the
Trump signs EO to end NPR and PBS funding
President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Biased Media” on May 1. This order aims to strip federal funding from National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), accusing them of biased and partisan news coverage, as The Hill and other news agencies reported.
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Trump’s executive order mandates that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) cease direct and indirect funding to NPR and PBS. The CPB must revise its 2025 Television and Radio Community Service Grants General Provisions and Eligibility Criteria to prohibit any federal funds from supporting these organizations. Trump stated, “No media outlet has a constitutional right to taxpayer subsidies, and the Government is entitled to determine which categories of activities to subsidize.”
NPR receives about 1 percent of its funding directly from the federal government, while its 246 member institutions — operating more than 1,300 stations — receive, on average, 8 percent to 10 percent of their funding from the CPB. According to NPR, PBS and its stations receive about 15 percent of their revenues from the CPB’s federal funds.
Both companies have served the public news for
more than five decades, and representatives argue that a cut to their funding would hurt marginalized communities.
The executive order could significantly impact the delivery of news and information to communities across the United States. NPR and PBS have served the public for over five decades, providing essential news coverage, especially in rural areas where other local news options are scarce. NPR CEO Katherine Maher expressed concerns, saying, “The big impact would be on rural stations, stations in geographies that are quite large or complex; to be able to receive broadcast or infrastructure, costs are very high. You could see some of those stations really having to cut back services or potentially going away altogether.”
“This is tremendously important as a public service, and just because not every single person uses it every day – you know, I don’t drive on our interstates every day, and yet when I need it, it’s there. The same is true of public media,” she added.
PBS CEO Paula Kerger echoed these sentiments, stating, “There’s nothing more American than PBS, and our work is only possible because of the bipartisan support we have always received from Congress. This public-private
partnership allows us to help prepare millions of children for success in school and in life and also supports enriching and inspiring programs of the highest quality.”
The enforcement of the executive order remains uncertain. CPB President Patricia Harrison argued that CPB is not a federal executive agency subject to the President’s authority and that Congress directly authorized and funded CPB to be a private nonprofit corporation wholly independent of the federal government. Congress has already approved funding for the corporation through September 2027. Trump’s executive order comes weeks after the administration attempted to dismantle Voice of America and affiliated news services. A federal judge blocked the effort. It is unclear whether PBS or NPR will file a lawsuit over the potential funding cuts ordered by the President. Both entities emphasize the public’s dire need for their services. Maher notes, “About 20 percent of Americans live in an area without any other local news coverage other than their local public radio station.” The controversy surrounding the executive order will likely continue, with potential legal battles and public debates on the horizon.
A veteran thanks the pilot for his flight.
Veterans were honored with a Dream Flight at Cleveland County Airport in late April.
Photos by CCSO
Phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced a series of new measures to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply, a significant milestone in the administration’s broader initiative to “Make America Healthy Again.”
The FDA is taking the following actions:
• Establishing a national standard and timeline for the food industry to transition from petrochemical-based dyes to natural alternatives.
• Initiating the process to revoke authorization for two synthetic food colorings—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B— within the coming months.
• Working with industry to eliminate six remaining synthetic dyes—FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2—from the food supply by the end of next year.
• Authorizing four new natural color additives in the coming weeks while also accelerating the review and approval of others.
• Partnering with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct comprehensive research on how food
additives impact children’s health and development.
• Requesting food companies to remove FD&C Red No. 3 sooner than the 2027-2028 deadline previously required.
“For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our children’s health and development. That era is coming to an end. We’re restoring gold-standard science, applying common sense, and beginning to earn back the public’s trust. And we’re doing it by working with industry to get these toxic dyes out of the foods our families eat every day.”
The FDA is fast-tracking the review of calcium phosphate, Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, butterfly pea flower extract, and other natural alternatives to synthetic food dyes. The agency is also taking steps to issue guidance and provide regulatory flexibility to industries.
“Today, the FDA is asking food companies to substitute petrochemical dyes with natural ingredients for American children as they already do in Europe and Canada,” said
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, MD, MPH. “We have a new epidemic of childhood diabetes, obesity, depression, and ADHD. Given the growing concerns of doctors and parents about the potential role of petroleum-based food dyes, we should not be taking risks and do everything possible to safeguard the health of our children.”
In partnership with the NIH Nutrition Regulatory Science and Research Program, the FDA will enhance nutrition and food-related research to better inform regulatory decisions. This collaboration will strengthen the FDA’s ability to develop evidence-based food policies, support a healthier America, and advance the priorities of the “Make America Healthy Again” Commission.
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines, and other biological products for human use and medical devices. The agency is also responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and regulating tobacco products.
The dangers of smartphone usage while driving
Few likely imagined that a day would come when a person could communicate, browse the internet, take photos and videos, play music, and much more all from a device small enough to store in a pants pocket. But that’s just what one gets with a smartphone. These amazing devices have transformed how people engage in everyday life. Although smartphones have their upside, there are disadvantages to the connectivity they provide — including the threat phones pose when used while behind the wheel. Anything that causes a driver to take his or her eyes off of the road, even if only for a few seconds, can prove disastrous. And smartphones have proven particularly distracting for drivers. In fact, according to Franciscan Health, one in four accidents occur because a driver was using a cell phone, hands-free or not. Distracted driving contributed to 3,522 deaths and 362,415 injuries in the United States in 2021, the most recent year for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s published estimates. More than 20 percent of respondents in a 2022 NHTSA survey admitted to using at least one smartphone-based distraction, such as social media, texting or video calls, while driving. Each time a driver gets away with using a phone without incident while behind the wheel, he or she may feel like it is no big deal. However, there is very real danger in doing so. Here are some facts that highlight how dangerous using a smartphone while driving can be.
• The National Safety Council has found drivers using hands-free and handheld cell phones fail to see up to 50 percent of the information in their driving environment. This is known as “inattention blindness.”
• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says using a cell phone while driving increases crash risk, as researchers have consistently linked texting or manipulating a cell phone to increased risk. When the IIHS monitored drivers who frequently use cell phones while driving for one year, those drivers had the highest rates of near crashes and crashes.
• Using driving simulators or instrumented vehicles, various analyses have found typing or reading text messages significantly slowed reaction time and increased lane deviations. It also increased the length of time drivers looked away from the roadway. The NSC says drivers using cell phones had reaction times slower than drivers impaired by alcohol at .08 blood alcohol concentration.
• When a person sends a text message or reads a message, it takes his or her eyes off the road for five seconds. Going 55 miles per hour while texting is like driving the length of a football field with one’s eyes closed.
Although smartphones are convenient, they should be stored out of reach while driving to limit the temptation of use.
2025 Cleveland County Artists Competition: The Art of Self Expression
The Cleveland County Arts Council invites artists 18 and older to submit work to the Annual Cleveland County Artist Competition. Work must be original, created by the artist within the last 2 years and not previously entered in a competition at the Arts Center. Artists must be residents of Cleveland County or fulltime students at a Cleveland County college or university.
Entries may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. Paintings, drawings, sculpture, print-making, and fine crafts will be accepted. All two-dimensional entries must be ready to hang with picture wire on the back. No sawtooth hangers. The Arts Council reserves the right to reject any entry that requires special installation.
The entry fee is $25 for up to two entries; additional entries are $5 each (max. four).
Artwork must be delivered to the Arts Council, 111 S. Washington St., on May 8 and 9, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
The judge for this year’s show is Emily Tuttle, assistant professor of art history and gallery director at Limestone University. Over the past four years, Emily has curated over eighteen exhibits and supervised eleven student-run exhibits between the two Limestone galleries. Her art history research specialization is medieval domesticity and material culture, and she works predominantly out of Yorkshire, England. In addition to teaching at Limestone, Emily is an adjunct instructor at Wofford College and Winthrop University. The following awards will be presented: First Place $500.00, Second Place $250.00, Third Place $125.00, and three Honorable Mention Awards for $50.00 each. The opening reception and awards presentation will be on Thursday, May 15, from 5:00 to 7:00. This event is free and open to the public. The exhibition will remain open until June 21. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 – 4:00, and Saturday, 10:00–2:00 p.m.
Sausage, sliced meat, and poultry recall
Smith Packing, LLC, a Utica, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 18,792 pounds of various ready-to-eat sausage and sliced meat and poultry products due to sodium nitrite levels that exceed the regulatory limit, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The ready-to-eat sausage and sliced meat and poultry items were produced between February 19, 2025, and April 24, 2025.
According to WebMD.com, sodium nitrate is a “yellowish-white, odorless powder” found in small amounts in certain foods, often used to preserve them and enhance flavors. However, in excessive amounts, it can “lower the ability of your red blood cells to move oxygen. Doctors refer to this harmful condition as methemoglobinemia. This can affect your ability to breathe, which can cause you to collapse. Very high levels of sodium nitrite can kill you.”
Brands affected by the
recall include As-Salaam, Smith Packing, Honest John, and Beefland USA. Items include beef breakfast sausage, franks, knockwurst, smoked sausage, bratwurst, export bologna, export salami, polish sausage, and varieties of roasted chicken sausage.
The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “EST. 4578” or “P4578” inside the USDA mark of inspection. They were shipped to institutional and retail locations in New York.
The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received consumer complaints about offtaste and off-color products.
There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to the consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is concerned that some products may be in institutional and consumer refrigerators or freezers. Consumers and institutions that have purchased these products are urged not to consume
or use them. They should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify that recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and take steps to ensure that the product is no longer available to consumers. The retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls. Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Joe Schaeffer, Palmer Foods’ Director of Marketing, at jschaeffer@palmerfoods. com. Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888674-6854) or email their questions to MPHotline@ usda.gov. For consumers who need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis. usda.gov/eCCF/.
Real Love
Let love be without hypocrisy. Romans 12:9a I don’t know about you, but the first time I read this verse, I kind of looked at myself and said, “duh!” If you are being a hypocrite, (by definition –saying one thing while acting the exact opposite), you can’t be very loving. That just doesn’t make sense. Then I look at how kids treat each other. I have three girls, so I often tease them about boys, but they
Rev. Jason Ballard Associational Mission Strategist of the GCCBA
assure me that, for the most part, the boys at their school are immature, stupid and gross. “Yes,” I remind them, “but for some of those boys, being immature, stupid and gross is how they tell you they like you.” It’s just like when they were 5 yearsold and pulled a girl’s hair just to get their attention. They don’t know how to show love! The same is true in our spiritual life. When we are immature in our faith, showing love often takes on an
element of saying one thing, but doing another. We tell God we praise him, but we remain silent in a worship service because it is more “reverent.” We tell God we want to grow closer to Him, but we fill our days and schedules with ways we serve that leave us no time to be with Him. We tell God we will follow Him, but when he calls us to “go,” we are too busy or obligated to follow through. When I look at my love for God, all I see sometimes is…stupid, immature and gross.
Maybe we can start each day with the reminder to love God without hypocrisy by being honest with God and ourselves. When we fall short, don’t make
an excuse. Instead, come to him honestly in repentance. When we get too busy to spend time with God or forget our spiritual disciplines, don’t rush through them just to say that we did them. Ask for forgiveness and take the time to make them happen as soon as possible. When we look at our lives and realize we have just plain messed up, don’t run from our mistake. Confront our sin by taking it to God and let Him forgive us. It is the only way we are ever going to grow up in our faith and find the treasure of what lies beyond the stupid, immature and gross expressions of our faith.
Kings Mountain Area Church Directory
Macedonia Baptist Church
1101 S. Battleground Ave. • Kings Mountain, NC
Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member
230 Oak Grove Rd.
704-750-0171
Anew Beginning Baptist Church
145 Battleground Dr.
704-473-1372
Ardent Life
Church
420 Branch Street
704-739-7700
Arise Church
830 E. King St.
Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road
704-739-7487
Boyce Memorial ARP Church
Edgemont Drive
704-739-4917
Calvary Way
Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan
Carson Memorial Baptist Church 262 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-2247
Central Church 113 S. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-2471
Cherokee St.
Baptist Church 421 S. Cherokee Street 704-739-7697
Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church 618 Chestnut Ridge Road 704-739-4015
Christian Freedom
Southern Baptist Church 246 Range Road 704-739-4152
Christ The King Catholic Church 714 Stone Street 704-487-7697
Concord United Methodist Church 2404 Tryon Courthouse Rd. Bessemer City, NC
704-629-3571
Connections Church
306 N. Piedmont Ave. 704-750-4972
Cornerstone Church Of God
202 Margrace Road 704-689-4430
Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477
Crowders Mountain Baptist
125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310
David Baptist Church 2300 David Baptist Ch. Rd. 704-739-4555
Dixon Presbyterian Church 602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com
East Gold Street Wesleyan Church 701 E. Gold Street 704-739-3215
East Kings Mountain Church of God Hwy 161, Bessemer City/ KM Hwy. 704-739-7367
Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055
Ebenezer Baptist Church 1621 County Line Road 704-739-8331
El Bethel United Methodist Church 122 El-bethel Road 704-739-9174
Emmanuel Independent Baptist Church 102 Canterbury Road 704-730-7855
Faith Ablaze Church 1128 S. York Road 704-739-8496
Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road
Faith Holiness Church Hwy. 161/ Bessemer City Rd. 704-739-1997
Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206
First Baptist Church 605 W. King Street 704-739-3651
First Church of the Nazarene 121 Countryside Road 704-734-1143
First Presbyterian Church 111 E. King Street 704-739-8072
First Wesleyan Church 505 N. Piedmont Avenue 704-739-4266
Galilee United Methodist 117 Galilee Church Road 704-739-7011
Gloryland Missionary Baptist Church 101 Benfield Rd. 704-740-7212
Gospel Assembly Church 202 S. Railroad Avenue 704-739-5351
Good Hope Presbyterian Church 105 N. Cansler Street 704-739-1062
Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888
Grace United Methodist Church 830 Church Street 704-739-6000
Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714
Kings Mountain Baptist Church 101 W. Mountain Street 704-739-2516
Life of Worship Ministries
405 S. Cherokee St. 704-777-2927
King’s City Church 1128 York Road 704-739-8496
Lighthouse Ministries 1908 Shelby Rd. Kings Mountain Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406
Love Valley Baptist Church 2032 Bethlehem Road 704-730-0075
Macedonia Baptist Church 1101 S. Battleground Avenue 704-739-6811
The excitement was elec-
tric on Friday, April 11, as
the Ambassadors Club of Kings Mountain High School kicked off its 4th Annual PowderPuff Football Game!
This beloved tradition was charged with the fierce spirit of competition and unparalleled school pride, all in the name of a fantastic cause. Junior and senior girls took to the field, battling it out to
was nothing short of exhilarating.
After a heart-pounding showdown filled with jaw-dropping plays and tenacious defense, the senior girls emerged victorious, edging past the juniors with a nail-biting final score of 12 to 6! Both teams showcased their athletic prowess with explosive runs and incredible teamwork, thrilling the
ball; it was about making a real difference in the lives of others. Every dollar raised went directly to supporting families at the Ronald McDonald House while their children receive critical medical care in Charlotte hospitals. Senior Teddy Brooks passionately advocated for this charity, declaring, “The Ronald McDonald House is such a phenomenal organization. It’s crucial that we, as a community, lift others, especially in tough times. The
world is already turbulent enough, and it’s our mission to strive for a better one.”
This year, the Ambassadors club pulled together an amazing $2,500 from ticket sales! The presence of Kayla Roberts, Marketing and Events Specialist for Ronald McDonald House Charlotte, added to the excitement. She shared, “Without community support, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte wouldn’t be able to provide the vital comforts
of home for families with sick children. It’s uplifting to see students rising to give back to organizations that directly impact youth and their families. You never know when you or someone you love might need our support.
Thank you, Kings Mountain High School, for your incredible generosity, and congratulations to the senior team for their victory!”
A special shoutout to the Kings Mountain YMCA staff, who donned their
referee jerseys and helped keep the game fair and fun!
Players dedicated countless hours to practice and preparation, all fueled by the desire to leave their mark on the special game ball that will forever be displayed in the trophy case, alongside the winning team’s glorious photograph. This unforgettable night blended fierce competition with heartfelt generosity, proving that together, KMHS students can tackle anything!
The KMHS Ambassadors celebrate a successful event enjoyed by the crowd and the satisfaction of knowing that their hard work helps those in need.
In the spirit of good sportsmanship, players in the KMHS PowderPuff Football Game, hosted by the Ambassadors Club, congratulate each other for a good game and for raising $2,500 for Ronald McDonald House.
Number 8 for the junior team breaks free for good yardage as teammates cheer her on!
Coaches and KM Family YMCA referees celebrate after the game.
The juniors fight back with a great throw in the next series.
A senior player gets a good block as the quarterback sends the ball soaring.
Medical sonography program coming to Gaston College
Gaston College is launching a new Medical Sonography program in Fall 2025 to help address the area’s workforce shortage.
“Gaston College is responding to a critical workforce need by developing a Medical Sonography program to address over 80 annual job openings in the local market,” said Leslie Pressley, Gaston College’s Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. “With projected job growth of 26 percent in North Carolina and median salaries exceeding $84,000, this program will provide high-quality training to support the re-
gion’s healthcare industry.”
Local hospitals and healthcare facilities have shown strong support for the program. Pressley explained, “At the request of local hospital systems, Atrium Health Lincoln and CaroMont Health, Gaston College began research and planning for this program to address the shortage of medical sonographers.
Currently, the region relies on graduates from colleges outside the service area, which does not meet employer demands. By establishing this program, Gaston College aims to equip students
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX
Having qualified on the 25th of April 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of Inez D. Patterson (25 E 338), 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 August 8, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.
This the 7th day of May, 2025.
A. Susan Biggers
Administratrix of the Estate of Inez D. Patterson
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.
402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (5/07, 14, 21 & 28/2025)
LEGAL
NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX
Having qualified on the 17th of April 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of James Conrad Powell (24 E 292), 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 Jaime Powell, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before August 8, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.
This the 7th day of May, 2025.
Jaime Powell Administratrix of the Estate of James Conrad Powell c/o A. Susan Biggers
Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (5/07, 14, 21 & 28/2025)
NOTICE
LEGAL
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 28th of April, 2025 as Administratrix of the Estate of VECIE KELLY HEAD (25 E 339), 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, Ginny Renea Jenkins, Administratrix on or before the 8th of August, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned
This the 7th of May, 2025.
Ginny Renea Jenkins, Administratrix Estate of Vecie Kelly Head 151 Mt Zion Church Rd. Cherryville, NC 28021
KMH (5/07, 14, 21 & 28/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATRIX CTA
Having qualified on 11th of April 2025 as Administratrix CTA of the Estate of Barbara Jean Leigh A/K/A Barbara Benfield Leigh (25 E 4), 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, A. Susan Biggers, Administratrix CTA, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 31, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned.
This the 30th day of April, 2025.
A. Susan Biggers Administratrix CTA of the Estate of Barbara Jean Leigh A/K/A Barbara Benfield Leigh Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150
KMH (4/30, 5/07, 14, & 05/21/2025)
with the skills to fill these essential roles, strengthening the local healthcare workforce and enhancing patient care in our community.”
The program will begin offering the first six courses at Gaston’s Lincoln Campus this fall.
“The Medical Sonography program at Gaston College will be housed in a dedicated 1,595-squarefoot instructional space on the Lincoln Campus, featuring specialized
classrooms, labs, simulation areas, and stateof-the-art equipment to provide students with hands-on, high-quality training,” Pressley added.
If you’re interested in this growing field, applications for the program are now open and will be accepted until May 15, 2025. Visit gaston.edu/ health-human-services/ medical-sonography/admission-requirements/ to learn more and apply.
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 1st of May, 2025 as Administrator of the Estate of VERNIE SMITH (25 E 355), 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, Clifton Smith, Administrator on or before the 8th of August, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned
This the 7th day of May, 2025.
Clifton Smith, Administrator Estate of Vernie Smith PO Box 3273 Shelby, NC 28151
KMH (5/07, 14, 21 & 28/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 8th of April, 2025 as Executrix of the Estate of OLLIE JO ROSS; AKA, OLLIE JO-TURNER
ROSS (25 E 279), 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, Lori Ross Sutherland, Executrix on or before the 16th of July, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 16th day of April, 2025.
Lori Ross Sutherland, Executrix
Estate of Ollie Jo Ross; aka, Ollie Jo-Turner Ross
417 Fulton Dr. Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (4/16, 23, 30, 5/07/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as Administrator over the Estate of Betty Jean Thomas; AKA, Betty Jean Mayes Thomas; AKA, Betty J. Mayes; AKA, Betty Mayes Thomas; AKA, Betty Bowens Thomas, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before Friday, July 18th, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.
This is the 16th of April, 2025.
22 E 338
James Danny Thomas, Administrator c/o Brenton S. Begley
McIntyre Elder Law
233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (4/16, 23, 30, 5/07/2025)
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK
In the Matter of the Estate of: JOHN TERRY HIPP, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified on the 24th day of April, 2025, as Executrix of the Estate of JOHN TERRY HIPP, 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 2nd day of August, 2025, this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 30th day of April, 2025.
Susan Elaine Johnsonbaugh, Ex 902 Sharon Drive
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.
CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS
P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (4/30, 5/7, 5/14 & 5/21/2025)
Did you know?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin damage builds up over time, beginning with a person’s very first sunburn. The more a person’s skin burns, the greater his or her risk for skin cancer becomes. The SCF notes that the same ultraviolet (UV) rays that damage skin alter a tumor-suppressing gene. That alteration gives injured cells a smaller window to repair before a tumor becomes cancerous. Five or more sunburns in a lifetime doubles a person’s risk for melanoma, which can be deadly. That cumulative effect underscores the need to emphasize skin protection methods, such as wearing sunscreen and avoiding exposure to the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Having qualified on 16th of April, 2025 as Executor of the Estate of RICHARD BENJAMIN MARTIN (25 E 301), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Richard Ray Martin, Executor on or before the 23rd of July, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned
This the 23rd of April, 2025.
Richard Ray Martin, Executor Estate of Richard Benjamin Martin 574 Community Rd. Shelby, NC 28152
KMH (4/23, 30 & 5/07 & 14/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as the Administrator over the Estate of Thomas Michael Pack, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before July 18th, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.
This is the 16th of April, 2025.
24-E 941
Gregory S. McIntyre, Administrator MCINTYRE ELDER LAW
112 S Tryon Street, Ste 700 Charlotte, NC 28284
KMH (4/16, 23, 30, 5/07/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF CREDITORS
Having qualified as the Administrator over the Estate of Helen Ford Pack (a/k/a Helen Brooks Ford Pack), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before July 18th, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.
This is the 16th of April, 2025.
23-E 216
Gregory S. McIntyre, Administrator MCINTYRE ELDER LAW
112 S Tryon Street, Ste 700 Charlotte, NC 28284
KMH (4/16, 23, 30, 5/07/2025)
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK In the Matter of the Estate of: THOMAS LEE GREENE, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified on the 14th day of April, 2025, as Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Lee Greene, 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 25th day of July, 2025, this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 23rd day of April, 2025.
JOSEPH A. GREENE, JR. 804 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
KMH (4/23, 4/30 5/7 & 5/14/2025)
REAL ESTATE
FARM & GARDEN
KOI FISH FOR SELL. Koi fish; all colors; short and long fin; 4”-10”;
$3-$5. We are wholesalers; call for availability. (864) 546-2778 brendasherman9@gmail.com
PETS & LIVESTOCK
FREE, 7 MONTH OLD WALK-
ING HOUND, Malinois female dog. Loves people. Very smart. Too active for older person. Need to re-home. 828-223-2730.
GREAT PYRENEES PUPPIES, FULL BLOODED. No papers, 3 males, 5 females, 1st shots, wormed, $300 each. 828-7483398 or 828-289-3871.
MICRO MALTESE AND DACHSHUND PUPPIES. Happy, healthy, vet examined and vaccinated. Ready soon. Accepting deposits to hold your choice. (704) 4372060 morninghawk@charter.net
BEAGLE PUPPIES. Male Beagle Pups, 7 weeks old, 1st shots, dewormed weekly. $200 each. Call/ Text (910) 571-2036 TWO CHIWEENIE PUPPIES Ready now. 2 males. Have one set of shots and dewormed. $350 each. 704-466-6983.
MALTISHONS FOR SALE. I have 4 puppies for sale. There are 3 boys and one girl. The puppies will be dewormed. They will be ready the last week of May. $350 (704) 477-3750 Destinywarren1991@gmail.com
10’X10’X6’ DOG KENNELS. Dog Houses and Dog Buildings. Delivery & Set Up Available. J Johnson Sales in Forest City. (828) 245-5895 TOY & TEACUP
CARS & TRUCKS
2015 CHRYSLER 200 Limited 152,100 miles, $5000, New batt. & air filters. New inspection. Low mileage on tires. ABS/Traction. Backup camera. AM/FM/SXM Bluetooth. Heated seats. A/C, Cruise, Power windows & locks. Blue exterior, Black cloth interior. (704) 466-4340 ninsarcat@ yahoo.com
2009 FORD MUSTANG 2 door Convertible. 102,090 miles, Power Steering, power seats, power windows, power top, 4 new tires. Very clean leather seats. Great for summer beach trips. Price $8500. Call or text (704) 466-0012
2018 CHEVROLET CAMARO V-6. Automatic, Red, Great Condition, 35,000 miles, $16,000. ALSO: 2021 Denali Canyon,V-6, 22,000 miles, 4 Door, Cheyenne Red, Excellent Condition. $35,000. Call (828) 755-7100
2003 FORD FOCUS 150,000 miles. Don’t Wait!, $1000. (704) 434-9251
2009 FORD ECONOLINE COMMERCIAL CHASSIS. 178,000 miles. Auto., White, Two ladder racks. $8995. Call (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net
2010 HONDA ODYSSEY 280,000 miles. $3500. Call (828) 980-4016
2005 FORD F-150 4x4, Red, Auto., Shortbed, 170,000 miles, $6000; 1985 Corvette, White, Auto., 140,000 miles. $4000. Call 704-487-7981 leave message.
1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD V6, 149,000 miles. automatic, power windows & locks, good condition. $6,500. 3 ton lever action chain hoist, like new. $450. Plate temp $250. 828-289-1817.
CAMPERS
AC Fantastic Truck for the Job or Farm. Call Kenny and come see this unique work truck. (704) 770-8600 Kenny@myhighgear.com
2004 FORD RV 28 ft., Class C. Good condition. 120,000 miles. $14,000. 802-371-9452.
CAMPERS
24 FT FOREST RIVER SURVEYOR. GENTLY USED & LIGHTWEIGHT. DESIGNED FOR COMFORT & FUNCTIONALITY. SLIDE OUT, OUTSIDE KITCHEN, 2 TVS, 7 FT CEILING, STORAGE GALORE, FULLY STOCKED & READY TO CAMP. CALL TO SEE IT. (828) 245-8159
MOTORHOME FOR SALE.
$12,000 or best offer. Call for info. (704) 689-4001
MOTORCYCLES & ATVS
2009 ULTRA CLASSIC. HARLEY DAVIDSON, 6700 original miles $10, 000. (704) 692-0977
2013 HARLEY DAVIDSON ULTRA CLASSIC. 1850CC, new battery, very clean, great condition, asking $9,000 OBO. 2009 Yamaha VStar 1300CC, new tires & battery, asking $5,500 OBO. 828-289-8943
1967 CA77 HONDA DREAM MOTORCYCLE. Excellent Condition, Runs Great. $4500. Same owner for 55 years. (704) 685-8535 VACATIONS
NEWLY RENOVATED BEACH HOUSE in OCEAN LAKES. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 4, golf cart. Weeks and weekends. Call nights only.704-472-5182 REAL ESTATE RUTHERFORD COUNTY
LAND FOR SALE, CAMP GROUND on land. Price lowered $160,000 to $150,000. 828-4530828. 3795-3925 Hollis Road, Ellenboro, NC 28040
REAL ESTATE RUTHERFORD COUNTY
2/2 RENT TO OWN -OWNERFINANCE!! MOBILE HOME RENT-TO-OWN. MAKE HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY!! NEW ROOF AND WINDOWS, FULLY REMODELED!. LOT RENT INCLUDED. $7500 DOWN $928.52/MO. RUTHERFORDTON, NC 28139 (727) 743-4908 CRAIG@ BLUERIDGEMOBILEHOMEPARK.COM
RENT-TO-OWN MOBILE HOME 3B/2B. 323 Whiteside Rd., Rutherfordton. $1134/ mo. Fully remodeled & spacious 3/2 Mobile Home with/ large lot, central air and heat, off street parking. $1134/ month includes lot rent, septic and trash! $10,000 down. Contact by email only craig@blueridgemobilehomepark.com
with gutters on both buildings. Vale, NC 28168 (828) 228-4016 valehousing@gmail.com
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
GASTON COUNTY SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMPGROUND.
ROOM FOR RENT - PADSPLIT. Renting a PadSplit room in Charlotte is affordable, flexible, and convenient starting at $750 a month. Enjoy all-inclusive pricing, furnished spaces, prime locations, and hassle-free living with no longterm commitments. Use promo code CLTROOM1 for $100 off your first month. (704) 387-3291 andrew@padsplit.com POLK COUNTY POLK COUNTY, SUNNYVIEW, NC. For sale by owner. Convenient location. 3.62 acre, wooded residential lot. $50,680. No text or email. Call (828) 429-3287 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 MOBILE HOME FOR RENT. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, $900 month. In Shelby. (828) 234-8147 1003-B MARK DRIVE, SHELBY, NC. Apartment, top floor, 2 bathroom, 2 bedroom. Rent $975, Deposit $975,
Garbage truck worker fatally struck in Lincoln County
A tragic accident occurred in Lincoln County, North Carolina, resulting in the death of a garbage truck worker. The incident happened on a busy roadway, where the worker was hit by a passing vehicle while performing routine duties. According to a news release from Highway Patrol officials, the collision occurred at approximately 7:40 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, on N.C. 27 in the Boger City area near Lincolnton. Despite immediate medical attention, the worker succumbed to their injuries at the scene. The driver of the vehicle remained at the location and cooperated with the investigation.
PUBLIC NOTICE
A 2014 Mack garbage truck was stopped in the lane when a 2011 Toyota Camry traveling west on NC 27 failed to slow down and hit a worker at the rear of the truck. The worker, 35-year-old Brandon Scott Carpenter from Dallas, Gaston County, died after being taken to the hospital.
Investigators identified Danica Lashea Borders, 35, of Lincolnton, as the driver of the Camry. She was uninjured. Casey stated, “The initial investigation indicates no impairment. Borders was charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and failure to reduce speed.”
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: MARJORIE ANN ALEXANDER aka MARJORIE ANN CARPENTER ALEXANDER, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified on the 16th day of April, 2025, as Co-Executrices of the Estate of Marjorie Ann Alexander aka Marjorie Ann Carpenter Alexander, 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 Co-Executrices on or before the 2nd day of August, 2025, this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 30th day of April, 2025.
Elizabeth A. Putnam, Co-Ex 111 Amelia Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Janet A. Edwards, Co-Ex. 410 Pineview Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086
C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.
CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS
P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (4/30, 5/7, 5/14 & 5/21/2025)
The North Carolina Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough investigation into the accident. Authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations, especially in areas where workers are present. This incident has raised concerns about the safety of roadside workers and the need for increased awareness among drivers.
The community mourns the loss of a dedicated worker and extends condolences to their family and colleagues. This tragic event highlights the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of accidents involving roadside workers.
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK
In the Matter of the Estate of: VERLA FORD HILL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified on the 23rd day of April, 2025, as Co-Administratrix of the Estate of VERLA FORD HILL, 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 Co-Administratrix on or before the 2nd day of August, 2025, this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This the 30th day of April, 2025.
Donna A. Bieder, Co-Adm
303 W. Mountain Street
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Tina H. Hall, Co-Adm
306 Liberty Court
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.
CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS
P.O. Box 515, 300 E. King Street
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
KMH (4/30, 5/7, 5/14 & 5/21/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as Administratrix over the Estate of Bill Bowman, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before Friday, July 18th, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.
This is the 16th of April, 2025.
25 E 247
Cynthia Bowman, Administratrix c/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law
233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (4/16, 23, 30, 5/07/2025)
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22-E-730
Having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Sherlene Schultz Womack, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, or corporations having claims against the Estate of said Sherlene Schultz Womack, to present them, duly verified to the undersigned
Stewart Allen Spain on or before the 31st day of July, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 30th of April, 2025.
Stewart Allen Spain Executor of the Estate Sherlene Schultz Womack
In C/O Colin P. McWhirter
Attorney 211 South Washington Street
Shelby, NC 28150
KMH (4/30, 5/07, 14, & 05/21/2025)
N.C. ranked as one of the worst states for reckless driving deaths
According to a new May 1 study from the personal finance website ValuePenguin.com, the state had the fifth-highest rate of reckless driving deaths in the nation. The report shows that this number is three times more than the national average and 115 times higher than in South Carolina. From 2018 through 2022 (the latest available data), reckless driving — defined as erratic, careless, or negligent — was a factor in 12,654 fatalities nationwide. That is 6.4% of all motor vehicle deaths in the period analyzed. According to the ValuePenguin.com study, Montana had the highest rate of reckless driving fatalities from 2018 through 2022 at 22.3 deaths per billion miles traveled. Comparatively, the national average was 4.0 — meaning Montana’s reckless driving fatality rate was more than five times higher. Colorado (19.5), West Virginia (15.3), and Alaska (13.9) followed. North Carolina was ranked fifth with 11.5 deaths per billion miles traveled. South Carolina was ranked forty-sixth in the country with
only 0.1 deaths for the same period.
Further, North Carolina’s incidents of reckless driving-related deaths have dramatically increased, with 1,373 total fatalities reported just between 2018 and 2022. “A state’s crash rate has a general impact on its car insurance rates. “Auto insurance expert and licensed insurance agent Rob Bhatt told ValuePenguin.com. “However, the impact is spread out over such a large number of drivers that it usually doesn’t impact an individual’s rate as much as their driving record will.”
You may be a safe driver, but you can’t control the driving habits of others on the road, so it’s crucial to be prepared.
“It’s important to pay attention to your driving environment,” Bhatt says. “This includes scanning the roadway in front of you and regularly checking your mirrors. This allows you to identify potential hazards before they arise and take steps to avoid them.”
Additionally, Bhatt says uninsured motorist coverage is typically worth adding to your car insurance. “It covers you and
BUILD WORD SEARCH
your passengers for injuries caused by a driver without insurance,” he says. “Even though insurance is required by law in almost every state, 13% of drivers don’t have it.” ValuePenguin.com researchers analyzed National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data using the Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST).
Researchers analyzed fatal crash data from 2018 through 2022 (the latest available at the time of research) and compared fatalities in vehicle crashes. To identify incidents and deaths connected to reckless driving, researchers analyzed crashes where drivers were recorded operating their vehicles in an erratic, reckless, or negligent manner. (Note: States differ in how they record related crashes.)
Researchers utilized annual vehicle miles traveled (VMT) data by state from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for 2022. Fatalities were calculated per billion miles traveled.
Did you know?
SUDOKU
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column, and each 3 by 3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9 using logic.
The United States entered the Vietnam War on August 5, 1964, and stopped fighting on May 7, 1975 by order of President Gerald Ford. Millions served in the Vietnam War and many lost their lives while others were wounded. Estimates of how many Vietnam veterans are still living vary. According to DAV®, an organization that helps war veterans, today there are fewer than 850,000 living Vietnam War veterans. However, the 2022 American Community Survey estimated 5.44 million living Americans are veterans of the Vietnam War. These individuals would be 80 years of age and older, comprising a large sector of the senior citizen population.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
CLUES ACROSS
Herring-like sh
Perform on stage
Soda
Small growth
In support of
By JIM MILLER Editor
How Seniors Can Save on Auto Insurance
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you offer any tips to help seniors save on their auto insurance? I recently turned 70 and got hit with a 25 percent premium increase on my car insurance and am looking for ways to save.
Older Driver
Dear Driver, As auto insurance rates across the country continue to rise for all drivers, seniors can face an even bigger price hike, once they reach their 70s and their driving skills begin to decline. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce your premiums. To find out what discounts may be available to you, contact your auto insurer and inquire about these options.
Increase your deductible: Paying a higher deductible could save you big on premiums. For example, raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can bring your annual premiums down by 15 to 20 percent, on average.
Adjust your coverage: If you’re driving an older vehicle, you may want to consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverage if your pre-
mium is more than 10 percent of the car’s value. Collision insurance covers damage to your car if you’re involved in a crash (or if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run) and comprehensive covers damage caused by acts of nature (such as storm damage), vandalism, theft or fire. But if you’re scaling back to liability coverage, make sure you have enough to pay for damages out of pocket if you’re in an accident or your car sustains damage due to weather, theft or another non-collision event.
Take a defensive driving course: Some insurance companies offer defensive driving discounts – between 5 and 15 percent – to drivers who take a refresher course to brush up on their safety skills. Organizations such as AARP (aarpdriversafety.org), AAA (aaa.com/stop) and The National Safety Council (nsc.org) provide these classes, for around $20 to $30 and they can be taken online.
Report your milage: Most insurers offer discounts to customers who drive limited miles each year, which is usually beneficial to retirees who drive less because they don’t commute to work every day. These discounts usu-
ally kick in when your annual milage drops below 7,500 or 10,000 depending on your provider.
Bundle policies: If your auto insurance policy is issued by a different company from the one insuring your home, call each insurer and ask if bundling the policies would be cheaper.
Sign up for driver monitoring: Some insurers offer discounts based on how and when you use your car. They will monitor things like your acceleration, braking habits, driving speeds and phone use, via smartphone app or a device that plugs into your car’s diagnostic port. Drivers can be rewarded anywhere from 10 to 30 percent for safe driving.
In addition, many insurance providers also offer discounts to drivers who do not have any violations or accidents for three or more years.
Ask about membership discounts: Many insurers offer discounts through professional associations, workers’ unions, large employers or membership organizations such as AAA, NARFE, AARP, etc. You could even
qualify for savings based on the college you attended or the fraternity or sorority you belonged to decades ago.
Improve your credit: You may be able to lower your car insurance premium by paying your bills on time and reducing the amount of debt you carry. Insurers look at how their customers manage credit to get an idea of risk and to price policies. Better rates are given to those with good credit scores, typically 700 or above.
Comparison shop: To find out if your current premium is competitive with other insurers, shop around through insurance marketplace websites like TheZebra.com, Insurify.com, Lemonade.com or Policygenius.com. Or use an independent agent (see trustedchoice.com/agent) to help you compare.
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.