KM Herald 7-13-23

Bolin’s Day Care under new ownership

By Loretta Cozart

Jeff and Kelly Bolin reached out to the Herald last week sharing news that on Friday morning they had sold Bolin’s Daycare at 901 Ramseur Street. The new owners are Tyler and Jessica Fletcher, and Woody Edwards, owners of Ronald’s Garage.

But Kelly won’t be stepping away just yet. “Well, I am going to be here for another year as the Director.

I’m going to give them a year’s worth of experience, whatever they need,” she said. “The decision is bittersweet, but I feel now that the time is right.”

Sheriff’s Deputy Seagle ambushed

At approximately 8 a.m., on Monday, July 10, Capt. Jody Seagle of Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office was ambushed on Curt Ledford Road, near Lawndale, by a man who struck him from behind with a metal bar when the deputy stopped to investigate a suspicious vehicle.

During a press conference, Sheriff Alan Norman said, “It’s just senseless, totally senseless. (It was) an attack that came out of nowhere. Before he struck Deputy Seagal, he knew that he was a law enforcement officer.”

The sheriff described this as an unprovoked, vicious assault. The deputy was in route to work when he noticed an abandoned, suspicious vehicle. When he exited his vehicle, the deputy was attacked from behind and assaulted with a piece of metal bar. “It is our desire to have this individual in custody and off the streets,” he said.

“The deputy fired upon

the vehicle when he feared the driver would back over him,” the sheriff explained. “It goes to show that he (the attacker) has no regard for the safety and welfare of any individual in North Carolina, or anywhere there is that he is at,” Norman said. Capt. Jody Seagle was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect is a white male, over 6 feet tall, believed to have a full-sleeve tattoos and a possible left-side neck tattoo. He was wearing work boots, black shorts, and a white T-shirt. The suspect vehicle was a beige or tan 4-door Buick, with a square front end. The driver’s side door may have bullet holes.

If you know anything about this incident, please contact Cleveland County Communications Center with information at 704-484-4822.

July 29 at KM Historical Musem

The Catawba and the American Revolution

Join Catawba Archivist

Mr. Ensley Guffey as he presents a deeper look into the Catawba People and their participation and involvement in the American Revolution.

This free event is Saturday, July 29, at 1 p.m. at Kings Mountain Historical Museum. Visit the museum’s website to reserve your seat for this event.

Ensley F. Guffey has com-

pleted his AA, BA, an MA in History, and an MLIS. Since 2020, Ensley has been the tribal archivist for the Catawba Indian Nation, working out of the Catawba Nation Archives in the Catawba Cultural Center on the Old Reservation outside of Rock Hill, South Carolina. There he cares for a multi-media collection including everything from documents to pottery to projectile points to traditional regalia to audio and video on a variety of formats.

Tyler Fletcher’s stepdaughter has spent many years enrolled at Bolin’s Day Care, so the family is familiar with the business. This is their first day care, so they asked Kelly to stay on for a year in the transition.

“Whatever they do, I know it is going to be an improvement,” Kelly said. “I'm excited to see those because that's why we've hung in there for so long. We had to trust that the buyers are good people and that they plan to keep things going.”

Kelly has worked in the daycare for 33 ½ years, with Jeff having just a little less time working there. But for Jeff, Bolin’s Day Care has

always been a part of his life; he has never known a day, until last Friday, that his family didn’t own the business.

In 1970, Barbara Ellen Bolin and her husband, Herman, lived two blocks away at 705 Ramseur Street. They had just completed construction of their new home on Cansler Street and decided to open a daycare in the basement. They had three children: Cindy, David, and Jeff. Jeff was just a year old.

Eventually, the Bolin's business outgrew their space, so they moved the daycare back to their house on Ramseur Street. In 1978, the Bolin’s bought the cur-

rent property across from North School and built a facility that accommodates 98 students. The 74 Bypass took their property, and they needed a new location.

Eventually, Jeff and Kelly bought the daycare from Barbara.

Bolin’s Day Care is well known for keeping traditions, like hot dog and chili day on Friday. When asked about the chili recipe during their 50th anniversary celebration, Jeff almost disclosed the recipe. Kelly quickly interrupted and explained, “it is a highly classified.” It was not disclosed if the chili recipe was included in the sale.

The Fun Factory comes to Patriots Park July 19

Join CJ and Fidget for The Fun Factory, in Patriots Park, 220 S. Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain on Wednesday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for this family friendly event.

This interactive program reminds us that when we work together, anything is possible! Young readers will help an incredible factory come to life as gears turn, games unfold, and

“Liberty Mountain” local audition dates for 2023 season

Auditions for the upcoming fall season of “Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama” will be held on July 22 at the Joy Performance Center in downtown Kings Mountain at 6:30 p.m. Auditions and interviews will be held for paid roles available for onstage and offstage positions, with the company seeking professional, local, and student talent. The production will be directed by Caleb Ryan Sigmon and is written by former WBTV news anchor Robert Inman. Performers will be expected to memorize and perform a 60-second monologue of their choice along with an optional 16-bar musical audition. Those acting and singing will be given 90-seconds. They are also seeking musicians – those wishing to play an instrument should prepare

a 60-second selection to showcase their musical talent. They are seeking topnotch talent from across the Southeast. Company housing is available for out-oftown performers. Rehearsals will begin on September 1, with performances running on select dates, September 15 through October 8.

“Liberty Mountain –The Revolutionary Drama” tells the epic true story of the Battle of Kings Mountain, that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War in October of 1780. The show features state-of-the-art See LIBERTY, Page 5A

toilet paper goes flying through the air! This high-speed show is guaranteed to capture attention with lots of music, interactive play, and a valuable lesson that audiences are guaranteed to remember; that we are strongest when we work together!The Fun Factory is presented by Sigmon Theatrical and hosted by Mauney Memorial Library.

Last Saturday, this family enjoyed a wonderful day at the downtown Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market. The market is open every Saturday through August, from 8 a.m. to noon. Enjoy fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, and locally sourced products and merchandise that supports farmers and merchants in our area. Photo by Loretta Cozart

CAPTAIN JODY SEAGLE

ARRESTS

reem Connor, 44, Charlotte, failure to appear, breaking and entering, felony; failure to appear, breaking and entering and larceny, felony, $10,000 secured bond.

JUNE 26: Jarvis O’Neal Adams, 45, 403 Belvedere Circle, failure to appear, larceny of motor vehicle, felony; failure to appear, 2nd degree kidnapping, felony, failure to appear, conspiracy to commit larceny, felony, no bond.

JUNE 27: Mary Allison White, Concord, DWI, revoked license, $2,000 secured bond.

JUNE 28: Steven Alan Dills, 46, Gastonia, possession stolen property, possession drug paraphernalia, $1,000 secured bond.

JUNE 30: Kurstin Taylor Cordle, 30, 107 S. Gaston Street, simple assault, $1,000 secured bond.

JUNE 30: Justin Charles Griffin, 34, 522 Harmon Court, failure to appear, DWI, failure to appear, driving while license revoked. Failure to appear, probation violation, $10,000 secured bond.

JUNE 30: Michael Donavan Cox, 42, Gastonia, failure to appear, unauthorized use of vehicle, $5,000 secured bond.

JULY 2: Sandra Marie Terry, 33, Shelby, DWI, $5,000 secured bond.

JULY 4: Donald Wesley Sellers, 56, 405 Walnut Street, assault on female, District Court July 5.

JULY 5: Misha Hartgrave Coble, 52, 5047 Long point B, failure to appear, breaking and entering, misdemeanor; failure to appear, simple assault; failure to appear, injury to real property, misdemeanor. Suspect transported to Gaston County Law Enforcement Center, written promise.

INCIDENTS

JULY 1: Verizon Wireless, W. King Street, reported larceny of a Google watch valued at $350.

JULY 1: A resident of Alpine Drive reported damage to a window.

JULY 1: A resident of Herman Court reported larceny of a brown Pitbull Mix.

JULY 4: A resident of Par-

Missing Gaston County teen

Gaston County Police are searching for Bailey Binsted. She was last seen on June 28, at her DSS Group/Foster home located in the 1300 block of Crowders Mountain Rd. in Gastonia. Bailey is in DSS custody, and she left the group home shortly after learning she was being sent to another foster/group home soon. Bailey may be staying in the Lincoln County area with family members.

Bailey was last seen wearing a brown shirt and tan shorts. She is described as a white female, 15 years old, 5ft 4in tall, 130 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes.

If you have seen Bailey or have any information on her whereabouts, please contact the Gaston County Police Department, Det. R.C. Cogdill, or call 911.

WRECKS

JUNE 23: Officer Matheson said Marissa Blanton, 414 Scotland Drive, operating a 2011 Ford, struck a 2017 Mercedes operated by Liliana Faxas-Moya, West Gold Street, at a red light on Canterbury Road Property damage was estimated at $8,000.

JUNE 27: Officer Rochford said Marcus Hodges parked his 2007 Cadi at his residence and a hit and run driver sideswiped it doing an estimated $1500 damage.

June 28: Officer Collins said both drivers claimed the steady green light on NC 161 and Woodlake Parkway.

Égalité Physcien, Gastonia, operating a 2011 Nissan, was traveling south on NC 161. Thomas Lewis Feemster Jr., operating a 211 Merz, was traveling west on Woodlake Parkway and both drivers proceeded through the intersection. A passenger in the Nissan was transported to the local hospital. Property damage was estimated at $6,000.

JUNE 28: Officer Herndon said Pamela Adams, Hickory, operating a 2015 Chevrolet, changed lanes on NC 161 and struck a 2020 Kia operated by Margaret Fay Alicea, Ike Brooks Drive. Property damage was estimated at $2,000.

JULY 3: Officer Cooke said John Lewis Prather, Grover, operating a 2014 Toyota, was backing from a parking spot on Gold Creek Trail and hit a 2017 Merz operated by Beverly Jones, 110 Rollingbrook Road. Property damage was estimated at $2,000.

JULY 3: Officer Medlin said three people were transported to Atrium HealthCleveland after a crash on Kings Mountain Boulevard.

Christian Isaiah Moss, 204 Fairdale Street, operating a Hawk motorcycle, was transferred to Atrium Main in Charlotte. Flora Arant Brown, 1714 Kings Row Drive 203, operating a 2013 Hyundai, was making a left turn off Kings Row Drive heading north on KM Boulevard when her vehicle was struck by the motorcycle traveling south on KM Boulevard at a high rate of speed, ac-

cording to the officer’s report. Brown said she did not see the headlight on the motorcycle until she was in the intersection. Moss was thrown 111 feet from the point his motorcycle came to rest. Property damage was estimated at $10,000.

JULY 4: Officer Cooke said Kimberly Cline, 227 Branchwood Circle, was backing her 2012 Dodge from the gas pumps at Circle K, 305 Cleveland Avenue, and hit a 2008 GMC operated by Gary Scott Weaver of Marion. Property damage was estimated at $2,000.

CITATIONS

JUNE 22: Brian Keith Parker, 42, 204 Marigold Street, expired tag, no inspection.

JUNE 22: Darryl Woods jr., Shelby, revoked license, no liability insurance.

JUNE 24: Jeffrey Whisnant, Connor Court, revoked license, stoplight violation.

JUNE 28: Joshon Moore, 29, Grover, expired tag.

JUNE 29: Chance Steele, 28, Cherryville, no operator’s license.

JUNE 29: Jesse Eugene Lanier, 51, Bessemer City, operating vehicle in a fire lane.

JUNE 28: Randall Dillard, Gastonia, improper right turn.

JUNE 28: Lisa Marie Genereux, 57, Cherryville, expired tag, no inspection.

JUNE 28: Lawrence Gass, 130 Lewis Curry Road, speeding.

JUNE 28: Otillua Dawn Spry, 44, Shelby, expired tag.

JUNE 29: Sarah Mathis Moss, Fairdale Street, no vehicle registration, rear lamps violation.

JUNE 29: Rebecca Barner, Forest City, speeding.

JUNE 29: Summer Nicole Holland, 31, Linwood Road, expired tag, no inspection.

JUNE 30: Douglas Pruitt Jr., 49, 722 McDaniel Road, expired tag.

GPD officer moonlights as a NASCAR driver

When Officer Rita Goulet is not out patrolling the streets of Gastonia on one of their night shifts, you’ll be able to find her at various race tracks across the country driving the #31 Rise Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR ARCA Menards Series.

This year, Officer Goulet has raced the #31 car in Pensacola, Dover, Nashville, and Minnesota. Her next race will be on July 14 in Iowa. She is also scheduled to race later this year at Indianapolis and Bristol with some possible other stops in between.

Officer Goulet’s husband, Tim, also drives the #31 car and raced last month in Michigan. Tim, who has worked with race teams in the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity

CCSO needs help finding stolen motorcycle

In late June, the pictured 2016 Silver Harley Road King motorcycle was taken from property on Castle Court in Kings Mountain. If any person has seen the motorcycle, or knows anything about the location of it, please contact Investigator Tom Watterson with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office at 704-476-3076, or by email at tom.watterson@ clevelandcounty.com. You can also submit a tip through the Cleveland County CrimeStoppers app

Series will drive the #31 car at his home track in Milwaukee next month.

Officer Goulet started with GPD in January after lateraling over from the Tuscaloosa Police Department in Alabama. She applied to many different

law enforcement agencies in this area of North Carolina and ultimately chose GPD. With her ARCA racing schedule, Officer Goulet said that GPD’s work schedule was a big factor in her decision to come to GPD.

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office released their July statistics. During the month, there were 8,984 calls for service, 168 arrests, 1,167 papers served including 339 criminal, 574 civil, and 254 subpoenas.

One hundred forty-five incident reports were handled: 130 were criminal and 15 were non-criminal. Two Hundred twenty-nine concealed carry permits.

Narcotics seized were 29,746 DU pills, Cocaine 34.9 g, Marijuana 334.10 g, Meth 185.11 g, and Fentanyl/Heroin 2,272.08 g. The monthly average of inmates handled by the sheriff’s office were 244 males and 33 females.

CCSO releases July stats State offers reward in 2020 Gaston Co. murder

Governor Roy Cooper announced that the State is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Gavin Alexander Plyler, age 24.

On May 5, 2020, at approximately 9:16 p.m., law enforcement officers responded to a shooting at a home on East Park Avenue, Gastonia, North Carolina.

Officers located Mr. Plyler on the couch suffering from a gunshot wound. Mr. Plyler later died from his injuries.

Anyone with information about this case should contact the Gastonia Police Department at (704) 866-6890 or the State Bureau of Investigation at (919) 662-4500.

This 2016 Silver Harley Road King was stolen from property at Castle Court in Kings Mountain in late June. Photos provided

If you know anything about this theft, call CCSO and speak to Investigator Watterson.

Officer Rita Goulet with her husband Tim. (Photo provided)

On Friday June 30, Kings Mountain Police Department celebrated the retirement of Lieutenant Doug Shockley after his 26 years of service. Pictured L-R: KMPD Chief of Police Gerald Childress, Lt. Doug Shockley, and Assistant Chief Chris Moore. Photo by KMPD

Supreme Court rules against student loan forgiveness

White House announces Plan B

On Friday, June 30, the Supreme Court of the United States delivered its final ruling on President Biden’s plan to forgive all, or part, of federal loan debt owed by tens of millions of Americans. The court ruled that federal law does not authorize the Department of Education to cancel such loan debt.

In response to the ruling, President Biden said, “While today’s decision is disappointing, we should not lose sight of the progress we’ve made – making historic increases to Pell Grants; forgiving loans for teachers, firefighters, and

others in public service; and creating a new debt repayment plan, so no one with an undergraduate loan has to pay more than 5 percent of their discretionary income.”

“I believe that the Court’s decision to strike down our student debt relief plan is wrong. And later today, I will provide more detail on all that my Administration has done to help students and the next steps my Administration will take.”

Later, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) released final regulations on its new income- driven repayment (IDR) plan, which will provide student loan bor-

SCOTT NEISLER

rowers with the most affordable repayment plan ever. The SAVE plan will cut payments on undergraduate loans in half compared to other IDR plans, ensure that borrowers never see their balance grow as long as they keep up with their required payments, and protect more of a borrower’s income for basic needs. Under the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, a single borrower who makes less than $15 an hour will not have to make any payments. Borrowers earning above that amount would save more than $1,000 a year on their payments compared to other IDR plans.

The SAVE plan, which

is available to student borrowers with a Direct Loan in good standing, will replace the existing Revised Pay-As-You-Earn (REPAYE) plan which is the most generous existing IDR plan for most borrowers. Borrowers who are already on the REPAYE plan will be automatically enrolled in the SAVE plan and see their payments automatically adjusted, with no action on their part.

While the Department makes this transition, borrowers may see the names REPAYE and SAVE used interchangeably. Borrowers can sign up for the SAVE/REPAYE plan today by visiting StudentAid.gov/IDR.

By law, the regulations will go fully into effect on July 1, 2024. But the Department will implement three critical benefits this summer before the student loan payment pause ends:

excluded from their family size when calculating IDR payments, simplifying the choice of repayment plan for borrowers.

Borrowers will see the following additional benefits that reduce monthly and lifetime payments when the SAVE plan is fully implemented next July:

• Payments on undergraduate loans will be cut in half (from 10% to 5% of incomes above 225% of FPL). Borrowers who have undergraduate and graduate loans will pay a weighted average of between 5% and 10% of their income based upon the original principal balances of their loans. For example, a single undergraduate borrower making $50,000 a year would see their payments fall a further $72 a month, bringing their total reduction on the SAVE plan to $163 a month.

income information that shows they would have had a $0 payment at the time of default will be automatically moved to good standing, allowing them to access the SAVE plan.

• Borrowers will receive credit toward forgiveness on certain deferments including those related to unemployment, cancer treatment, and military service. Going forward, borrowers will also receive credit for certain forbearances such as those related to natural disasters. This will eliminate many common pitfalls that can make it harder for borrowers to successfully navigate repayment.

I have been so honored to represent you, so I want to thank you for letting me serve you! I have really enjoyed it and celebrating all of the events I have attended. We truly live in the best place in America and it’s because of our people.

When considering running I had to think deep down if I was still able and had the drive to contribute in making Kings Mountain even better. It would not do anyone any good to be in that position and not have that drive. I have never thought that Kings Mountain couldn’t survive without me being Mayor, but I still have that drive and excitement for what the future holds. And I promise when that excitement is no longer there I will not run.

My mission for the next 4 years will be that bridge from the past in preparing for the future. Growth has arrived and I am committed to maintaining and even improving the quality of life we all enjoy. I am proud of what we have accomplished while having our tax rate low. I am committed to keeping it that way in advocating for effective responsible spending and taking advantage of a reasonable return on investment of our utility systems.

We have a bright future if we are in control of what we want for community as the best years are ahead of us. It will be a pleasure to work for you!

Scott

PAID FOR BY SCOTT NEISLER FOR MAYOR

• The amount of income protected from payments on the SAVE plan will rise from 150 percent to 225 percent of the Federal poverty guidelines (FPL). This change means a single borrower who earns less than $32,805 a year ($67,500 for a family of four) will not have to make payments. As a result, we estimate that more than 1 million additional low-income borrowers will qualify for a $0 payment, including 400,000 who are already enrolled on the REPAYE plan and will see this benefit applied automatically. This will allow them to focus on food, rent, and other basic needs instead of loan payments. Borrowers not eligible for a $0 payment will save at least $1,000 a year compared to the current REPAYE plan. A single borrower would save $91 a month on payments ($1,080 a year), while a family of four would save $187 ($2,244 a year).

• The Department will stop charging any monthly interest not covered by the borrower’s payment on the SAVE plan. As a result, borrowers who pay what they owe on this plan will no longer see their loans grow due to unpaid interest. We estimate that 70 percent of borrowers who were on IDR plan before the payment pause would stand to benefit from this change.

• Married borrowers who file their taxes separately will no longer be required to include their spouse’s income in their payment calculation for SAVE. These borrowers will also have their spouse

• Borrowers whose original principal balances were $12,000 or less will receive forgiveness after 120 payments (the equivalent of 10 years in repayment), with an additional 12 payments added for each additional $1,000 borrowed above that level, up to a maximum of 20 or 25 years. Current IDR plans require all borrowers, even those who only attended school for a single term, to repay their loans for at least 20 or 25 years before receiving forgiveness of any outstanding balance. This change will make IDR a more attractive option for borrowers who would otherwise struggle the most to repay their loans, including those with low balances and those who left college before completing their program.

Additionally, the final rule will make it easier for borrowers to navigate repayment by eliminating common pitfalls to forgiveness and protecting at risk borrowers. This includes the following changes, which will take effect when the rule is fully implemented:

• Borrowers who go 75 days without making a payment will be automatically enrolled in the SAVE plan if they have previously provided approval for the disclosure of their federal tax information to the Department.

• Borrowers in default will gain access to the existing income-based repayment (IBR) plan, allowing them to access lower payments and accumulate progress toward forgiveness while they work to exit default. Borrowers in default who provide

• Borrowers who end up in a deferment or forbearance that is not counted toward forgiveness (other than in-school deferment) will have up to three years to make additional payments based upon their current IDR payment to receive credit toward forgiveness for those periods.

• Borrowers will receive credit for payments made prior to a consolidation based upon a weighted average of the principal balances in the loans being consolidated rather than having their progress toward forgiveness reset.

Estimated effects of the SAVE Plan: The benefits of the SAVE plan will be particularly critical for low- and middle-income borrowers, community college students, and borrowers who work in public service. Overall, the Department estimates that the plan will have the following effects for future cohorts of borrowers compared to the existing REPAYE plan:

• Borrowers will see their total payments per dollar borrowed fall by 40%.4 Borrowers with the lowest projected lifetime earnings will see payments per dollar borrowed fall by 83%, while those in the top would only see a 5% reduction.5

• A typical graduate of a four-year public university will save nearly $2,000 a year.

• A first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree will see a two-third reduction in total payments, saving more than $17,000, while pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

• 85% of community college borrowers will be debt-free within 10 years.

• On average. Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Alaska Native borrowers will see their total lifetime payments per dollar borrowed cut in half.

Today

I signed up to run for Re-election to continue to be your Mayor of Kings Mountain

OPINION

TODAY’S QUOTE:

The cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. And one path we shall never choose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission. –

John F. Kennedy

“God’s Children Are Not For Sale”

Mountain.

Last week, I became aware of a new movie called Sound of Freedom, a film about the trafficking of children as sex slaves throughout the world, and here at home. According to the producers more than two million children are being exploited daily. I know this is not a popular topic, because dark topics are never pleasant. But after watching the movie, I am compelled to draw attention to the prevalence of such behaviors all around us, knowing that there may be children in our own community who are suffering.

LORETTA COZART

ries about individuals in our community who take advantage of children; sometimes it is their own child, a stepchild, or a neighbor’s child, often with other’s knowledge. And yet, nothing was done to stop it. Sometimes, these children are deprived of food, left starving and unable to defend themselves. It breaks my heart.

In the few years I have written for the Herald, I

In the 1980s and early 1990s, individuals in Kings Mountain were investigated for possession and distribution of pornographic photographic materials. One was later imprisoned, and his name was added to the sex offender registry. However, once his imprisonment and probation ended, he was no longer required to be on the sex offender registry. No community is

Why are so many people drawn into sex trafficking? UNICEF USA reports, “Human trafficking is fueled by a high reward, low risk dynamic. This means that traffickers can expect to make a lot of money with minimal fear of punishment or legal consequences. It’s the second most profitable illegal industry, second only to the drug trade. And while drugs are sold in one transaction, human beings can be sold over, and over, and over again. The costs are low, and the profits are extremely high. The International Labor Organization estimates that profits from human trafficking and forced labor are $150 billion annually.” Other facts about human trafficking include:

trafficked persons globally today and 25% of them are children (Liberate Children, International Labour Organization)

• Forms of Child Trafficking include forced marriage, begging, sweatshops, pornography, migrant farming domestic labor, sextourism, armed groups (commonly known as child soldiers) (Unicef)

• Sex trafficking is the most common type of trafficking in the US. In North America 72% of detected survivors were trafficked for sexual exploitation. (UNODC, HTIP report 2020)

• 70 million Child Sexual Abuse Material files are estimated in 2019. 78% of this file are children under the age of 12(Thorn)

• The extent of family involvement in child

in cases of adult trafficking(CTDC)

• 53% of all male victims trafficked into sexual exploitation are children. (CTDC)

• Child sex trafficking has been reported in all 50 U.S. States. (NCMEC)

• A higher percentage of identified children are trafficked for sexual exploitation than for forced labor(UNODC)

Online Exploitation:

Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) refers to any content that depicts sexually explicit activities involving a child. Visual depictions include photographs, videos, live streaming, and digital or computer-generated images indistinguishable from an actual minor. CSAM better describes the reality of this crime, rather than

pornography. It’s important we use terminology that reflects the impact of this crime on its victims (Thorn.org). ”At any given time, there is an estimated 750,000 child predators online — and they all have a key to your house via the Internet” (FBI, nd) Federal law now provides extraterritorial authority over certain sex offenses against children. Extraterritorial jurisdiction is the legal authority of the United States to prosecute criminal conduct that took place outside its borders. I am not here to convince you to watch Sound of Freedom, although it inspired me to share this story. I am only one person. What can one person do to change the world? I can write, and I hope these words will inspire you to See CHILDREN, Page 5A

Looking Back

By Loretta Cozart

After celebrating the 247th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it is an interesting fact that some eleven months before that historic event of July 4, 1776, some of the ancestors Kings Mountain’s founding families signed a similar document.

Hayne Neisler shared a photo, along with notes made by W. A. Mauney after the 1913 gathering of descendants at the site of Christian Mauney’s home, designated as the Tryon Courthouse.

In a document penned by W.A. Mauney, he describes the gathering writing, “A Big Reunion, On Saturday, the 19th day of August at

the site of the Christian Mauney home, which is between Cherryville and Bessemer City, a large gathering of Christian Mauney’s descendants met for a picnic lunch. Guest speakers were the Honorable Clyde Hoey and Judge Alfred Nixon who gave patriotic speeches. An orchestra from Lenoir -Rhyne College in Hickory played hymns and songs.”

On August 19,1775, a declaration known today as the Tryon Resolves was signed. In it, they condemned the behavior of the British for actions taken toward citizens near Boston on April 19 and 20, 1775, proclaimed their right to defend themselves if attacked, and expressed hope for a reconciliation. A century later, we refer to this type of doc-

ument as a Resolve.

Signing of the Tryon Resolves occurred at the home of Christian Mauney which stood near present day Tryon Elementary school, some eight miles north of Kings Mountain.

Christian Mauney was the great grandfather of Kings Mountain’s founder and first mayor, W.A. Mauney and his brother Jacob S. Mauney. The declaration signed at Tryon called for the ‘’painful necessity of having to recourse arms in defense of our national freedom and constitutional rights, against all invasions.”

The signers also vowed “to take up arms and risk our lives and our fortunes in maintaining the freedom our country.’’

The signers at Christian Mauney’s home

also declared they would continue to follow the Continental Congress or Provincial Conventions in defiance of British declarations, as these were illegal. Finally, all who signed warned that force would be met with force until such a time

as a ‘’reconciliation’’ can be made between the colonies and Britain. Unlike the Declaration of Independence, the resolves did not call for independence from British rule.

Across North Carolina, five such resolves

were signed. Two hundred and forty-seven years later, only the Tryon Resolves’ original document survives, stored safely in the North Carolina State Archives in Raleigh. The four other documents have been lost to history.

On August 19, 1913, 83 of the then living 87 descendants of Christian Mauney met for a great celebration at the exact site of the signing of the Tryon Resolves. See W.A. Mauney’s penned account of the reunion on page 5A. (Photo by Hayne Neisler)

Stock you medicine cabinet for free

NC MedAssist offers a free over the counter (OTC) medicine giveaway to everyone on Friday, August 4, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church at 220 N. Watterson Street, in Kings Mountain.

The event is sponsored by Albemarle Corporation and supported by community partners: The Davidson Association, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, NC Department of Insurance, City of Kings Mountain, WNCAP, and Patrick Senior Center. The event will be held rain or shine. All NC residents are welcome to participate. There are no income requirements to receive products and no I.D. is required. Those participating must be 18 years or older.

LIBERTY

From Page 1A projection technology, live music, epic battle scenes, and other special effects that bring the story of the

Items include cold, cough, flu medicine, pain relief, vitamins, children’s medicine, etc. All event participants will be able to choose up to eight items, while supplies last.

On the day of the event, you can stop by Mt. Zion Church from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. to receive free OTC products. If you want to request specific medications, you can pre-order online using the QR Code or by visiting www.medassist.org/ mobile. Online registration closes July 28 at 1 p.m. You may pick up your pre-order during our event and can choose a convenient time for you. You can also pick up items for a friend or family member. If you do not pre-order your medications, you can

founding of our nation to life in immersive and thrilling ways. Anyone wishing to audition may email material in advance to caleb@sigmontheatrical.com. Virtual auditions are also being

Life coaching is often missing in today’s world…

come by and shop for your free OTCs. All event participants will be able to choose up to eight items, while supplies last.

No appointment or pre-registration is required.

NC MedAssist provides OTC medications at no charge to everyone through Mobile Free Pharmacy events such as this one. They are also a nonprofit pharmacy providing access to prescription medications to qualified uninsured North Carolina residents.

What is next for you? Are you making plans for furthering your education? Are you interviewing for employment? Are you debating about your career path? What type of occupation will be fulfilling and pay the salary you want to earn? Possibly you are making plans to get married? You may be wondering about the best strategies for buying a house or saving for retirement. Consider talking to people who are doing what you want to do.

accepted for those unable to attend in person. Please send an updated resume and headshot along with your email. Learn more about the production and apply today: www.libertymountaindrama.com.

Life coaching and mentoring are sadly missing today. It’s missing in our schools, churches and even worse, our families. Young people are desperate for the wisdom of senior Americans but most of the time think they know everything, We all thought we knew everything when we were young. Looking back, we now realize how

little we really knew. Throughout life we are typically stuck with figuring it out by ourselves. We made the choice to make our own decisions. When we make our own decisions then we can’t blame anybody but ourselves. However, education is expensive. Learning the hard way is never fun. You have heard people say, “Let him figure it out. He’ll learn.” This is typically true, but if your grandchild is about to pick up a poisonous snake, would you just stand back and let the child learn? Would you not care enough to snatch the child away from the snake? Of course, you would save your child. You can’t save everybody, but when you can, then why not do what you hope someone would do for you?

If you consider yourself a young adult then you need to interview some older people. You need to ask questions about their vocations, businesses, and whatever path they have walked. How did they do what they have done? What would they do over?

LOOKING BACK

From Page 4A

What would they never do again? What would be their advice to you about life in general, money, marriage, faith, church, raising kids and anything else. You might be surprised at what you will learn.

Most older people think no one wants to hear their opinion and too often it is true. Sadly, years of life’s experiences – worth more than money could ever buy – are never utilized.

Every high school and church should have an occasional life coaching day. A day when some of the community sages are invited to sit and field questions from small groups and even talk one on one. You may not always hear what you want to hear. Sometimes the truth is surprising. Always keep in mind that the truth will set you free. Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” And lastly… always keep in mind that advice giving should always be done in love and gentleness.

CHILDREN

From Page 4A reach out to our local politicians to make changes to the law. Together our votes can affect change.

Sound of Freedom is the true story of Tim Ballard, a Homeland Security agent who arrests those who distribute child pornography. In 2012, Ballard realized he had the opportunity to save the life of one child. To do so, he would have to quit his job and go rogue. Ballard and his wife have six children and he consulted her before deciding how to proceed.

After asking her thoughts, she told him, “I will not let you jeopardize my salvation by not doing this.” The operation resulted in the rescue of 59 children.

America is the biggest consumer of Child Sexual Abuse Material. We have the capability, yet we have not been able to stop these crimes. With $150 billion fueling the fire, and smaller police departments strapped for both personnel and funds, things are not looking good for us to win this fight. But we cannot be discouraged. We must raise our voices as one, to educate and engage our communities,

and to join the fight to end exploitation that threatens our children. Together, we can make a difference.

Aside from grace, I consider my children to be my greatest gift from God. When they were young, it was my job to protect them. I feel those same feelings toward my grandchildren. If anything were to happen to them, it would devastate me. And I feel the same for all children. So, I am speaking up to encourage our community to let the world know, God’s children are not for sale. And that message should begin with us right here in Kings Mountain.

Glenn Mollette Guest Editorial

W.A. Mauney’s penned account of the 1913 family reunion held at the homeplace of Christian Mauney.

Let’s Love Our Children: Embracing the Biblical Call to Parent with Unconditional Love

Children are a precious gift from God, and as parents, we are entrusted with the responsibility to love, nurture, and guide them. The Bible provides us with invaluable wisdom on how to love our children unconditionally, creating a nurturing and loving environment where they can thrive and grow.

Dr. Moses Neuman

Proverbs 22:6 teaches us, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This verse emphasizes the importance of teaching and guiding our children in the right path from an early

age. It encourages parents to invest time and effort in instilling godly values, morals, and teachings in their children, which will help them develop into responsible and godly adults.

Ephesians 6:4 further reinforces the significance of loving our children by saying, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This verse highlights the need for parents to parent with patience, understanding, and grace, avoiding harsh discipline or provocation that may harm the child emotionally or spiritually. It calls for a nurturing approach that incorporates godly instruction and discipline, guiding the child in the

ways of the Lord.

1 Corinthians 16:14 reminds us of the importance of love in all aspects of life, including parenting: “Let all that you do be done in love.” This verse emphasizes that love should be the foundation of all our actions and interactions with our children. Our love should be unconditional, selfless, and compassionate, mirroring the unconditional love that God has for us as His children.

Furthermore, Psalm 127:3 beautifully captures the divine gift of children: “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” This verse reminds us that children are a blessing from God, and we

should treasure and cherish them as precious gifts. It highlights the privilege and responsibility of parenting and calls us to approach it with a heart full of love and gratitude.

In conclusion, the Bible teaches us that as parents, we are called to love our children unconditionally. We are to train, discipline, and instruct them in godly ways, while also showing them unwavering love and acceptance. Let us be guided by these powerful Bible verses as we strive to create a nurturing and loving environment for our children, reflecting God’s love in our parenting journey.

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

Resurrection

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

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

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 Davidson Association awards scholarships

The Davidson Association held a Scholarship Tea for three well deserved students and their families. The recipients were chosen and received scholarships based on their essay and academic achievements.

The students are listed with their chosen college/ university: Dariyon Black, Gardner-Webb University, Boiling Springs, NC; Jazmir Dye, A&T University, Greensboro, NC, and Christina James, Clinton College, Rock Hill, SC.

Valerie Boyd is Chairman of the Scholarship Fund, Katherine Pendergrass, president of The Davidson Association. Scholarships were also awarded to the winners of the Masters of Distinction (not pictured): Brandon Johnson, Carson Zito, Prince Perry, and Jamari Gist. Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

Museum prepares for two new exhibits

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Historical Museum is preparing two new exhibits opening July 18 through October 21. They have been bustling in preparation for the opening of their next exhibit “A Delicious Country,” a traveling exhibit from City of Raleigh Historic Resources and City of Raleigh Museum. Another small exhibit called “Kings Mountain Area-Early 1800s Gravestone Industry: A Heritage of Artisty in Stone” has been created by Keith Stewart and Leonard H. Caveny to share

Soup starter recall

with the museum. Both exhibits open July 18 and will be open through October 21.

Remember to mark your calendar for Kings Mountain Historical Museum’s 20th Annual Reverse Raffle and Auctions that has been ac-

Senior Center Memory Bear Workshop

By Loretta Cozart

Patrick Senior Center, at 909 E. King Street in Kings Mountain is hosting a Memory Bear Workshop on Wednesday, July 26, from 9 a.m. until noon. Participants will make a stuffed bear pillow using an article of clothing from a loved one. Call the Senior Center to sign up.

The Patrick Center is a SHIIP site and can help with Medicare questions

and check to see if you qualify for Extra Help with your drug costs. They can also assist with transportation, loan equipment, incontinence supplies, nutritional supplements, and other services. Please call the center at 704-734-0447 for more information or to sign up for programs. Programs are open to people ages 55 and up unless otherwise noted.

United States Food and Drug Administration announced that Ziyad Brothers Importing of Cicero, IL, is recalling its 35.2 fluid ounce packages of Ziyad Brand Jameed Soup Starter because it does not declare milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The recalled Ziyad Brand Jameed Soup Starter was distributed nationwide in retail stores and through Amazon.

All products that are labeled as Ziyad Brand Jameed Soup Starter and sold in a 35.2 fluid ounce tetra pak container with UPC code 0 74265 00597 1 is included in this recall.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered during a routine internal company review that the product was distributed in packaging that disclosed the presence of “lactic casein powder” in the ingredient list but it did not further clarify that this ingredient is derived from “milk.”

Consumers who have purchased 35.2 fluid ounce packages of Ziyad Brand Jameed Soup Starter with UPC code 0 74265 00597 1 may return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 708-2228330 between the hours of 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday or email foodsafety@ziyad.com.

claimed the “best event of the year in Kings Mountain.”

This 20th annual fundraiser will be held in-person at the H. Lawrence Patrick Senior Center in Kings Mountain on Saturday, September 16. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

The museum issued an announcement stating, “We anticipate a sold-out event with 300 tickets bought by individuals throughout the region, and we offer a Grand Prize of $10,000! Each ticket is $125 (Entry for 2 People). It also includes 2 drink tickets per person, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a 1 in 300 chance of winning the $10,000 Raffle

Prize, along with other raffle items!”

This event is a great opportunity for local business owners to showcase their business while investing in the community. Kings Mountain Historical Museum is currently welcoming event sponsors as well as in-kind donations for auction items. The Museum is recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit tax-exempt organization; donations are tax deductible as permissible by law. To find out more about sponsorship and donation opportunities, please call 704-739-1019 or email kmhmdirector@outlook.com.

Two areas on Broad River fail swim guide testing

The Broad River Greenway in Boiling Springs and Broad River at Coxe Rd in Rutherfordton failed testing during their most recent samples posted on Friday, July 7, indicating results were above 126 E.coli / 100 ML water. Broad River at Grays Road and Moss Lake tested safe.

From May to September, MountainTrue riverkeepers and volunteers collect weekly water samples from the Broad, French Broad, Elk, Green, Hiwassee, New, Nottely, and Watauga River watersheds. They process and analyze each sample and post the results to the Swim Guide website and mobile app before the weekend, so you know where it’s safe to swim.

All recreators should be aware that results are preliminary and, while posted as soon as available, represent data that is a day old and should only be used as guidance when assessing exposure risk. Bacteria levels can change at any time,

especially after heavy rainfall.

The Broad Riverkeeper is a program of MountainTrue and a member of the Waterkeeper Alliance. Every week from May to September, Broad Riverkeeper staff, interns, and volunteers monitor water quality at sites across the Broad River Watershed. Weekly results are posted on Fridays, so you know where it’s safe to swim, fish, and paddle on your weekend adventures. Results will be communicated through the Swim Guide mobile app and website, as well as the Broad Riverkeeper Facebook and Instagram pages.

MountainTrue utilizes the EPA-approved IDEXX method for collecting and analyzing water samples and, beginning in 2023, compares the results against the EPA’s (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) 2012 Recreational Water Quality Criteria for primary contact of 126 CFU/100 mL. Test results are expressed as Most Probable Number

(MPN) of E. coli CFU (colony forming units) per 100 ml. [Please note that prior to 2023, MountainTrue was using 235 CFU/100mL as its threshold value.]

A beach is marked Green when single sample results are up to 126 E.coli / 100 ML water. A beach is marked Red when the results are above 126 E.coli / 100 ML water. A gray marking indicates no current data is available.

MountainTrue’s Swim Guide bacteria monitoring program keeps recreators up to date with the latest water quality results for the most popular water recreation sites in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. They use their testing data to track down sources of bacterial pollution and push for better policies to address the long-term issues affecting our rivers, lakes, and streams. MountainTrue’s water quality program is powered by our volunteers, members, and donors.

(Ed. Note: The recipes in today’s Cooking Corner are from “100 Years in the Kitchen” by Women of the Church of First Presbyterian Church,)

Add

SQUASH PIE

Marilyn Neisler

Use yellow or zucchini squash 3 cups sliced.

Cook squash with:

2 cups sugar

4 eggs

1 stick melted butter

1 t. nutmeg

2 t. self-rising flour

1 t. vanilla

Toasted coconut (optional)

Pour into unbaked pie shell and bake at 350 degrees 45 minutes or until light brown and set. Makes 2 pies.

VEGETABLE CASSEROLE

Ginnie Arnette

1 pkg. frozen vegetables mixture of broccoli,

cauliflower, and carrots, thawed

1 small onion, chopped

5 oz. can water chestnuts, chopped

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup sour cream

½ cup sharp cheese

Mi soup and sour cream. All other ingredients except cheese. Pour into 9x12 Pyrex dish which has been greased with butter. Sprinkle grated cheese on top. Bake 350 degrees 30 to 45 minutes.

OVEN BAKED BEEF STEW

Christine Ramseur

3 lbs. beef stew

Trim off some of fat.

1 can onion soup

1 can mushroom soup undiluted

Cover with foil and bake at 325 Degrees for 3 hours. Serve over rice.

CUCUMBER DELIGHT

Frances Sincox

1 cup cider vinegar

1 cup water

½ cup sugar

1 ½ tablespoon salt

Bring the above to a boil, then cool. Wash and slice cucumbers. Fill each jar with 1 med. onion and cucumber slices. Fill jar with boiled mixture, and seal. Refrigerate. Better after 2-3 days.

Dariyon Black with Valerie Boyd.

Photos by The Davidson Association

Jazmir Dye and Valarie Boyd.

L-R: Katherine Pendergrass, Becky Smith, (standing in for Christina James), and Valerie Boyd.

Shelby American Legion Auxiliary Unit 82 installs their new officers on June 19

The Shelby unit has been in existence for over 100 years

Submitted by LINDA QUINLAN

Shelby American Legion Auxiliary Unit 82 members met on Monday, June 19, 2023 for their regular monthly meeting and installation of officers for the 20232024 year. The installing officer was Nichole Santelli, who is President of Auxiliary Unit 243 in Bessemer City.

Toni Heberlig was honored as the 2023 Unit 82 Member of the Year. Toni has crocheted and donated dozens of beautiful afghans for veterans. Martha Bridges was recognized by the NC Auxiliary for her 1st place scrapbook.

Linda Quinlan was congratulated on her recent election as NC Auxiliary State Historian.

The Shelby American Legion Auxiliary is an active unit with over 60 members. The mission of the Auxiliary is to honor and assist veterans, military members and their families, along with serving their communities. The Shelby unit has been in existence for over 100 years.

On the local level, Unit 82 members participate in various programs, such as visiting veterans in nursing care facilities, and providing toi-

the Cleveland County Veterans Services Office and Neal Senior Center. They also provide care items for the Asheville VA Hospital, plus care baskets and clothing to veterans shelters. Their current project finds them assisting the American Legion World Series (ALWS) office with preparation of ALWS shirts, hats, and player backpacks in advance of the Aug. 10-15 national baseball tournament in Shelby.

It is to be noted that new members are always welcome. Also, Auxiliary representatives will be at the local Legion Post 82 for a membership recruitment event on Saturday, July 15. Potential new members, or current members wishing to pay their renewal dues, are encouraged to stop by the Post, which is located at 1628 S. Lafayette St., in Shelby on that date between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. At that time, Unit 82 officers will explain eligibility requirements and answer questions.

Representatives from the other three local American Legion 82 entities (Legion, Riders, and Sons of the Legion) will also be present for assistance. Please email Post 82 at: Post82@yahoo.com for more information, or stop by the Shelby American Legion Post 82 building on July 15. We will be happy to assist

NCBOE invites comments on proposed administrative rule regarding voting system data

The State Board of Elections invites the public to comment on an administrative rule proposed to provide procedures for certain authorized individuals to access proprietary information for voting systems certified for use in North Carolina.

The proposed rule is about the process by which a person, authorized by Voting systems: powers and duties of State Board. N.C.G.S. § 163-165.7, may access, review, and examine information that voting system vendors place in escrow as part of the state certification of their voting systems. This escrowed information includes proprietary and highly sensitive information of voting systems, including the source code for voting machines and election management systems and their software.

The proposed rule is designed to ensure that authorized individuals may review this information without risking the disclosure of proprietary or competitive information belonging to voting system vendors or the disclosure of features of voting systems that could be exploited by malicious actors.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has designated elections infrastructure, including voting systems, as critical

national infrastructure. Because North Carolina is one of many states that use the same or similar voting systems, the access that the state provides through this process has implications for the security and integrity of elections nationwide.

The public comment period opens Monday, July 3, 2023, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, September 1, 2023.

Members of the public may comment on the rules in any of the following ways:

• Online: Public Comment Portal: Voting Systems Escrow Access Rule

• Email: rulemaking. sboe@ncsbe.gov

• Mail: Attn: Rulemaking Coordinator, PO Box 27255, Raleigh, NC 27611-7255

A virtual public hearing will be held at 11 a.m. on July 20, 2023. To join the public hearing:

• Online: Webex

Access code: 2430 539 9957#

Passcode: NCSBE (62723 from phones and video systems)

• By Phone: (415) 6550003

Access code: 2430 539

Shelby’s Unit 82 officers group photo: Seated L-R, are: Shirley Standridge, Chaplain; Nichole Sanelli –Bessemer City Auxiliary President and Installing Officer; and Denise Smith, President. Standing L-R, are: Linda Quinlan, Vice President; Madelyn Parker, Historian; Peggy Stroup, Secretary; Jean Lankford, Sergeant-at-Arms; and Martha Bridges, Treasurer. (photos provided)

Martha Bridges (left), NC Auxiliary Scrapbook competition winner holding patriotic award plaque, and Unit 82 President Denise Smith, holding her winning scrapbook entry.

Toni Heberlig (left), Unit 82 Member of the Year, and Unit 82 President Denise Smith.

Toni Heberlig, Unit 82 Member of the Year, is shown holding her American Legion Auxiliary Certificate. Unit 82 President Denise Smith presented her with an Auxiliary certificate and a gift card. (photos provided)

Western Carolina University Spring 2023 Chancellor’s list

Western Carolina University congratulates more than 2,000 students named to the Chancellor’s List for Spring 2023. To qualify for this honor, students must achieve a GPA of 3.8 or higher while completing 12 or more credit hours.

Congratulations to these students from Kings Mountain: Bailey Jackson, Brian Best, Bryson Key, Emma Herndon, Erica Bridges, Jason Kornegay, Jessica Proper and Rileigh Hazen

GC new 911 Communications and Operations Program partnership

and Alyssa Adams and David Humphries of Grover. As the westernmost institution in the University of North Carolina System, WCU attracts students from around the globe for its nationally ranked programs, affordability through NC Promise and exceptional student support. Recognized as a top adventure college and surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Moun-

tains, students can explore the region’s vast natural diversity through unrivaled experiential learning and recreational activities. Offering residential, hybrid and online programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees at our main campus in Cullowhee, WCU in Asheville located at Biltmore Park, and wherever students are through distance learning.

Board of Education to conduct drop-in sessions to gain community input

Citizens are encouraged to provide feedback for superintendent search process

Gastonia, N.C. – The Gaston County Board of Education will conduct two drop-in sessions on Saturday, July 15, 2023 to engage the public in the superintendent search process.

The morning session from 9:00 - 11:00 is at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 519 W. 19th Avenue, Gastonia. The session will take place in the chapel. The afternoon session from 1:00 - 3:00 is at The Pointe Church, 6700 Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont.

Members of the community with an interest in Gaston County Schools are invited to drop by during either session to talk with Board of Education members about what qualities they would like to see in the next superintendent for Gaston County Schools. The format for each session is informal, and attendees may drop by at any point during the two-

hour time frame.

The Board of Education has hired the N.C. School Boards Association (NCSBA) to facilitate a national search for Gaston County Schools’ next superintendent. The superintendent search process involves advertising the position, reviewing applications, arranging interviews, and selecting a candidate. It also includes receiving feedback from stakeholders.

In addition to the two drop-in sessions on Saturday, July 15 to gain input from stakeholders, the Board of Education is conducting a Superintendent Search Survey. Parents, school employ-

Gaston College and Richmond Community College have announced a joint 911 Communications and Operations curriculum that will allow students at Gaston College to complete the program’s courses online at Richmond Community College. This exciting new collaboration between the two colleges will enrich the students’ education and pave the way for them to potentially land jobs in various emergency dispatch organizations in the future.

“This is a unique step for Gaston College as Richmond Community College is the first college to offer a 911 Communications and Operations curriculum in North Carolina. I know our students will benefit greatly from the knowledge and insights gained while taking these courses,” said Gaston College President Dr. John Hauser.

ees, business/civic leaders, and others in the community are encouraged to complete the survey to give input about what they would like to see in the person who is selected to be the new superintendent.

The survey is available now on the Gaston County Schools website homepage (www.gaston.k12.nc.us). It includes questions about the characteristics, experience, knowledge, and skills that the person chosen to lead the school system should possess. It also includes an open-ended response section where survey takers can provide comments for the Board

“It’s an honor to partner with Gaston College as we expand our new 911 Communications and Operations program. I appreciate the trust placed in us by President Hauser and Dr. Woodson to provide their students a pathway to a great career as telecommunicators,” said Dr. Dale McInnis, President of Richmond Community College. “Our students, communities and employers all benefit when we build on our respective strengths and collaborate.”

The implementation of the 911 Communications and Operations curriculum between the two schools will be a way to provide both students and current practitioners with

to review.

The deadline to complete the survey is Monday, July 17. NCSBA will compile, summarize, and present the survey data to the Board of Education in August.

“As the Board of Education conducts the process to select the next superintendent for Gaston County Schools, we are seeking input from our entire community,” said Board of Education chairman Jeffrey K. Ramsey. “We would like to invite everyone to attend one of our community sessions on Saturday, and we also hope citizens will take about 10 minutes to complete our Superintendent

knowledge and useful skills in particular areas necessary for entrance advancement with emergency communications while earning a public safety communication specialist associate degree.

Students will gain invaluable knowledge in different areas of coursework including basic software, personnel management and supervision, grant writing, mental health awareness, and more. The skillsets of each student will expand significantly, and students will grasp a deeper understanding of emergency communications while preparing themselves for a post-graduate world.

Search Survey.”

Ramsey added, “We want citizens to share their thoughts and ideas with us as we choose a new leader for Gaston County Schools. Not only do we want people to take the survey, we hope they will share the survey link with family members, neighbors, and friends as feedback from all stakeholders is important to us.” Stephen C. Laws, Ed.D., is serving as interim superintendent while the superintendent search process takes place and until a permanent superintendent is hired by the Board of Education.

Access to nutritious food is foundational for overall health and well-being. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offers several programs to support individuals’ access to healthy food, including Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Changes are coming to these two programs due to the end of the federal public health emergency on May 11, 2023. Federal PHE guidelines had allowed certain flexibility and exceptions, which are ending in the coming weeks and months.

More than 260,000 North Carolinians are currently enrolled in WIC, and about 1.6 million North Carolinians currently receive FNS benefits. Beneficiaries in the WIC and FNS programs should take action to keep their contact information up to date with these programs and be on the lookout for official mail, emails or texts from the programs.

Changes to WIC Benefits:

Families participating in WIC can use their benefits to purchase specific items at WIC authorized retailers. WIC products are limited to certain brands, sizes, types, and quantities of products. During the PHE, due to supply chain disruptions, some restrictions on the types of products were loosened — particularly types of milk and yogurt and the size of some whole wheat and whole grain bread. These substitutions will no longer be allowed after Aug. 1. Families can access their WIC shopping list and/or the BNFT® app to identify which food benefits are on their eWIC card. A full list of approved brand, size and form of foods that can be purchased with WIC can be found on the NC WIC Program Shopping Guide; individual products can also be scanned at the store using the BNFT® app

to check for eligibility.

Changes to FNS Benefits: In North Carolina, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is called Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). The following changes will impact individuals receiving FNS benefits:

• Six-month recertifications: During the PHE, the state agency was able to extend FNS certification periods from recertification every six months to every 12 months for certain households. These extensions have ended and now most households will need to recertify every six months to continue receiving FNS benefits. FNS beneficiaries will receive their recertifications in the mail, and it will indicate the date by which they need to submit the recertification to their local Department of Social Services.

• Suspension of claims collections: Some North Carolina households have received FNS overpayments. While repayments were suspended during the PHE, these overpayments are now to be repaid by the beneficiaries through a repayment plan with their local DSS. FNS beneficiaries will be notified if there are new overpayments that must be repaid and will receive instructions about how to make payment arrangements.

Three specific groups of FNS recipients will also be uniquely affected by the end of the PHE:

• College Students: During the PHE, a new exemption was provided that made some college students newly eligible for FNS. Students who had completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid with an estimated family contribution of $0 were able to receive FNS benefits. That exemption is no longer available. The change will be reflected upon the students’ benefit recertification.

See NUTRITION, Page 3B

Changes coming soon to food and nutrition programs

The importance of diversity when donating blood

According to the American Red Cross, people come in all different shapes, sizes, and blood types. Most blood types fall into one of the four major groups: A, B, AB, O. However, some people have rare blood types that fall outside the major groups, and for these patients, we need a more diverse blood supply.

For a small percentage of the population, finding someone else with the same blood type can be as difficult as looking for a needle in a haystack.

Patients who require frequent blood transfusions as part of their treatment, like those with sickle cell disease or thalassemia, can need close blood type matches to prevent these patients from developing complications from their transfusion therapy.

The best blood type match for patients with rare blood types often comes from donors of the same race or similar ethnicity.

Red blood cells carry markers called antigens

LEGAL

on their surface that determine one’s blood type. There are more than 600 known antigens besides A and B. Certain blood types are unique to specific racial and ethnic groups. Therefore, it is essential that donor diversity matches patient diversity.

For example, U-negative and Duffy-negative blood types are unique to the African American community. People with sickle cell disease and these blood types rely on blood donors who are Black when they need a transfusion.

When blood is phenotypically matched (i.e., close blood type match), patients are at a lower risk of developing complications from transfusion therapy. For this reason, it is extremely important to increase the number of available blood donors

Having qualified on the 6th day of July, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Shuford Kirk Peeler, Jr., 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 14th day of October, 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 12th day of July, 2023.

Linda W. Peeler, Ex. 811 Meadowbrook 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 7/12, 7/19, 7/26 & 8/2/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 28th of June, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of CARRIE LEE CLONINGER; AKA, CARRIE R. CLONINGER, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Kenneth Cloninger, Administrator on or before the 28th of September, 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 28th day of June, 2023.

Kenneth Cloninger, Administrator

Estate of: Carrie Lee Cloninger; aka, Carrie R. Cloninger

PO Box 365, Cherryville, NC 28021

201 W. Ballard St., Cherryville, NC 28021

Counsel for the Estate McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (6/28, 7/05, 12, & 19/2023)z

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 19th of June, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of JAMES RICHARD PANTHER, 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, Bianca Long, Executrix on or before the 28th of September, 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 28th day of June, 2023.

Bianca Long, Executrix

Estate of James Richard Panther

1159 Cleveland Ave Grover, NC 28073

KMH (6/28, 7/05, 12 & 19/2023)

from all ethnic and racial groups. Patients with sickle cell disease may rely on regular blood transfusions throughout their lives to prevent sickle cell complications such as organ and tissue damage, severe pain, and strokes. Unfortunately, frequent transfusions can make finding compatible blood types more difficult when patients develop an immune response against blood from donors that is not closely matched to the recipient. These antibodies can lead to severe complications. One in three African American blood donors are a match for people with sickle cell disease.

• Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic blood disease in the U.S., most commonly affecting individuals of African descent.

• The disease causes

red blood cells to be hard and crescent-shaped instead of soft and round, making it difficult for blood to blood smoothly and carry oxygen throughout the body.

• Blood transfusions help relieve pain during a crisis and can prevent other complications by increasing the number of healthy red blood cells in the body.

Sickle Cell Disease vs. Sickle Cell Trait:

• People with one sickle gene and one normal gene have sickle cell trait.

• Sickle cell trait is inherited, and many individuals are not aware that they carry this trait.

• Sickle cell trait is not sickle cell disease, and in most cases, individuals with sickle cell trait do not experience any symptoms of the disease.

• Approximately 1 in 13 babies who are Black or African American are born with sickle cell trait.

It is essential to know your trait status. All donors who self-identify as African American will be screened for Hemoglo-

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 5th of May, 2023 as Administrator of the Estate of RITA DIANA COOK, 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, Brenton S. Begley, Administrator on or before the 5th of October, 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 5th day of July, 2023.

Brenton S. Begley, Administrator

Estate of Rita Diana Cook McINTYRE ELDER LAW

233 E. Graham Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/05, 12, 19, & 26/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th of June, 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of ROBERT DREW MUNOZ, 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, Melinda Munoz, Executrix on or before the 21st of September, 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 21st day of June, 2023.

Melinda Minoz, Executrix

Estate of Robert Drew Munoz

1283 Dalesford Dr Alpharetta, Ga. 30004

KMH (6/21, 28, 7/05 & 12/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 27th of April, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of RUSSELL SPARKS DAVIS, SR., 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, G. Bryon Gragg, Jr., Resident Process Agent at 9 East Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 21st of September, 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 21st day of June, 2023.

Robert Grier Davis, Executor

Estate of Russell Sparks Davis, Sr.

2824 Belaire Circle Atlanta, Ga. 30340

Counsel for the Estate

Resident Process Agent

G. Bryon Gragg, Jr.

9 East Marion Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (6/21, 28, 7/05 & 12/2023)

bin S, a key indicator of sickle cell trait.

Blood types fall into four major groups: A, B, AB, and O. Some patients require an even closer match than the main blood types. If a patient receives a transfusion that is not a close match, they may form antibodies. Individuals who receive frequent blood transfusions, such as patients with sickle cell disease, need to receive the most compatible match possible.

• Antigens are a substance on red blood cells that help determine blood type.

• There are more than 600 known antigens, and some are unique to specific racial and ethnic groups.

• One in three African American blood donors is a match for a patient with sickle cell disease.

More than 100,000 individuals in the U.S. suffer from sickle cell disease – an enduring and often invisible condition. The disease disproportionately affects individuals of African descent, many of whom rely on

NUTRITION

From Page 2B

• Able-Bodied Adult

Without Dependents: An ABAWD is a FNS applicant or recipient who is between the ages of 18-49, physically and mentally capable of employment and not responsible for or living in a household with a minor child. With the conclusion of the PHE, the ABAWD time limit on benefits goes back into effect, meaning ABAWDs can receive FNS benefits for only three months in a three-year period unless certain extra work requirements or exemptions are met.

•Individuals with class

routine blood transfusions as an essential treatment to prevent life-threatening complications. In fact, a single patient with sickle cell disease can require thousands of blood transfusions throughout their lifetime. If you want to donate blood to help those fighting sickle cell disease, reach out to the American Red Cross and schedule a donation. Blood drives are going on around the county, with two scheduled in August:

• Tuesday, August 8 at First Baptist Church, 403 Cleveland Ave, Grover, NC 28073 from 3:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

• Monday, August 21 at First Wesleyan Church, 510 E. Alabama Avenue, Bessemer City, NC 28016 from 2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

For additional times and locations, visit https:// www.redcrossblood.org/ and add your zip code in the Red “Find a Blood Drive” box in the top right corner of the page.

H or I felony convictions: This category relates to those individuals with felony convictions for controlled substances. During the PHE, individuals with class H or I felony convictions were not required to complete a substance abuse assessment to be eligible for FNS. Now that the PHE has ended, those assessments are again required, and individuals will be required to complete the assessment at application or their next recertification. For more information about the FNS program, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/fns. To apply for benefits online, visit epass.nc.gov. To learn more about additional food resources, visit www. ncdhhs.gov/foodresources.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 6th of July, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of VIOLET S. MICHAEL; AKA, VIOLET SANDERS MICHAEL, 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, Pamela M. Mitchell, Administratrix on or before the 12th of October, 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 12th day of July, 2023.

Pamela M. Mitchell, Administratrix

Estate of: Violet S. Michael; aka, Violet Sanders Michael 205 Claytenna Rd Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (7/12, 19, 26, 8/02/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having qualified on 12th of June, 2023 as Executor of the Estate of NANCY ELAINE LEWIS, 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, Jervey Frank Lewis, Executor on or before the 21st of September, 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 21st day of June, 2023.

Jervey Frank Lewis, Executor Estate of Nancy Elaine Lewis 1085 NC 120 Hwy Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (6/21, 28, 7/05 & 12/2023)

How to create more privacy on your property Popular trends in home exteriors

generations.

Planting

be less costly than fencing.

The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and

$4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though it’s unlikely they will cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more maintenance and will potentially need to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for

Homeowners who choose to plant for privacy will next have to decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating a living fence. A number of varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s important that homeowners consult with a landscape architect prior to choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties. During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.

• Leyland cypress: The Arbor Day Foundation®

notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries, likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60’-70’ and can spread as wide as 25’. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.

• Green Giant Arborvitae: There are different varieties of the arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fast-growing option for privacy planters. The Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet at maturity, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.

• Eastern White Pine: The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height and its potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like it for its resemblance to a Christmas tree, and in fact it is widely used for that purpose. The privacy provided by the eastern white pine is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties. Whether it’s fencing or planting, homeowners have many options to consider as they seek to create more privacy on their properties.

Certain homes have an undeniable wow factor. That instant appeal tends to be noticeable the moment visitors pull up to the curb, and it might be a byproduct of homeowners’ willingness to embrace the latest exterior design trends. Trends come and go, but recognition of the current fashions can help homeowners create that highly sought-after wow factor. The following are some recent trends in home exteriors that have helped homeowners set their properties apart.

Wood

Natural wood has undeniable appeal, and it hasn’t

only found newfound devotion among home interior decorators. Natural wood garage doors create a sense of warmth and can set a home apart from others with steel doors, which tend to be the most popu-

lar garage door material.

In addition to the garage door, natural wood entry doors and wood decks are popular ways to impart this classical, warm look to a home’s exterior. Painted brick

Like natural wood, brick is a traditional material that’s both sturdy and classical. But homeowners can add character to brick with a coat of paint, which has become a popular trend in recent years.

Light tones tend to be most popular when painting bricks. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens note that this could prove a long-term commitment if homeowners so desire, as a properly painted brick exterior could last as long as 20 years.

Hardscaping

Hardscaping isn’t a new trend, but it has been trending in recent years. Hardscaping is an um-

brella term that includes everything from outdoor living rooms to incorporating natural stone into a landscape. Outdoor living rooms are one hardscaping trend that has become increasingly popular of late. These spaces serve as an extension of indoor living spaces. The home improvement experts at HGTV note that recently homeowners have looked to create covered outdoor rooms that can be enjoyed more frequently than patios or decks that are not protected from the elements. Outdoor lighting It makes sense that individuals looking to

spend more time enjoying their properties outdoors would want more lighting outside. Ambient outdoor lighting can be utilized throughout a property. Such lighting can light up walkways and driveways and be used to light up landscaping features like trees and gardens. Home design trends tend to be fickle. But recognition of the current trends in exterior home design can set homes apart and turn properties into awe-inspiring places to enjoy the great outdoors.

YOUTH MIN-

ISTER. Eastside Baptist Church of Shelby, NC is seeking a full-time Associate Pastor/Youth Minister. Preferred qualifications are experience in student ministry, seminary education and ordination. Please send cover letter and resume to office@eastsidebaptistshelby.org or to ATTN Personnel Committee, Eastside Baptist Church, 1165 Wyke Rd., Shelby, NC 28150. office@eastsidebaptistshelby.org

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER. Must have valid drivers license. Call 704-473-4299. (704) 4734299

ONE ON ONE CARE, INC. Is hiring for Day Program Activity Coordinator. Includes some transport. Mon- Fri- 7am-3pm Also hiring for 2nd and 3rd shifts in the Residential homes, rotating schedule. Off every other weekend. If interested, apply at 203 Lee St., Shelby, NC 28150

MAINTENANCE POSITION

LAKE LURE, NC. Full-time, Lake Lure Inn. Knowledge of carpentry, tile, plumbing, electric, and HVAC preferred. Apply within: 2771 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC or online lakelure.com EOE (828) 6252525 ext. 121 engineering@ lakelure.com

WEAVETEC INC. Established Dobby and Jacquard weaving plant needs experienced help for all production positions. Pay depends on experience. Benefits include health insurance and 401K. Please apply in person at 216 Wilbur St., Blacksburg, SC.

BUSINESS SERVICES

SINGLE STORY HOUSE

PAINTING, pressure wash and paint. $1900. 828-8293716.

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

RAGE DOORS. Summer Tune-up Special, $69.95. We will check all your equipment lube, make sure it’s working correctly. We repair broken doors. Also offering new installations. 704-477-9119 or 704-472-9367.

WE DO IT ALL! Customer service 864-219-8495. Problems, complaints, concerns 864-490-9803.

HOVIS REAL ESTATE

SOLUTIONS. For all your Handyman needs. Carpentry, Sheetrock, Plumbing, Clean-up and Removal of Trash and Debris, etc. (704) 466-5400 ashovis.67@ gmail.com

J’S LANDSCAPING & MORE. Tree cutting, haul off junk, lot clearing, grass & limb cutting, construction. Call anytime 828-744-2920.

J & W LAWN CARE. Mowing, trimming, leaf removal, pressure washing driveways & patios. Call Jeff for pricing. 704-418-5178.

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY- 48 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Brick, Block & Stone, Outside Fireplaces, Foundations, Underpinnings. “Free Estimates”. 1st Quality Work! (863) 5321587

BUSINESS SERVICES

HANDYMAN LAWNCARE. CHEAPER TODAY THAN YESTERDAY. Cut, Seed, Lawn Aeration, Plant Grass, Bushhogging, Driveway Grading. 704-297-1326, 980-291-2357.

Cash Only.

GRAVEL & MULCH DELIVERED. Rutherford County area. 828-829-3716.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. NOW IS THE TIME. Over 25 years Exp! Install Replace Hot water Heaters, Mulching, Trees and Bushes trimmed, Minor Repairs, Ceiling Fans, Mini Blind Installation, Any Handyman Services. No Job too Big or Small! References available. We will show up and do the job. Call us first, 704-692-4449.

RETAINING WALLS, PAVERS, GRADING, DEMOLITION. Site cleanup, ponds, fencing, maintenance, irrigation, landscaping, concrete, excavator work. 828-453-8113. ERIC MOBILE MECHANIC. I will come to you to repair any car, lawnmower or tractor. Honest & Reliable! (704) 300-2332

SURGE PRESSURE WASHING, INC. House washing starting @$99. surgepwinc.com (704) 284-9292

SALES

YARD

CLEVELAND COUNTY

INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD

SALE. Women’s Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Houseware, Holiday Decoration & More. Sat., July 15th, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Sat. July 22nd, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Sat. July 29th, 2023 from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. 618 Norwood Street, Shelby, NC 28150

YARD SALE - SATURDAY,

JULY 15, 2023. From 7:00 am until Noon, 208 Wintergreen Court, (in Hall Crossing Neighborhood) household and furniture items! Kings Mountain, NC 28086 FOR SALE

BOOKCASES, GLASS FRONT, $125 EACH. (Books not included, 4 shelves, 57”x23”; Antique heavy-metal animals: camel, pig and horse, $25 each, 4”-7” tall; Collection of Vintage metal boxes, $20 each, owl, lion, teddy bear, frog, size varies. Vintage diamond ring value at $2,500.

Beautiful solitaire stone set in yellow gold, $1,800. Leave message at 704-466-3097.

4200 HUSKEE RIDING

MOWER. 42” Deck, 420cc Powermore. Engine runs very smoothe. VGC overall. $425 cash. Call: 8am-8pm. 704538-9743.

JOHN DEERE MOWER 42” cut. 18.5 HP, Briggs Engine, Good condition. $450 cash only. Leave message, please 704-538-9743.

WOMAN’S LEATHER MO-

TORCYCLE JACKET. Never worn, size 24, $80. Job Box, in good condition, $150. Gazelle free style glider exerciser, $75. 980-429-7018

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

2 TAN RECLINERS. Very good condition. $75 for both. Queen headboard, footboard, rails, all wood $60. (704) 470-5751

FIREWOOD, BUNDLE

PACKS. 7-10 sticks per 23-25 pound pack. Stretch wrapped. $5 ea. Can deliver, minimum 15 packs. 704-458-3081, (704) 435-3970

10 NORMAN ROCKWELL PICTURES. In nice frames. 7 Norman Rockwell plates, no chips. $200 for all (704) 8604705

GE WHITE TOP AND BOTTOM refrigerator. Approximately 15 to 20 years old. $150

OBO. 828-289-5242

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

FOR SALE

MEN’S CRUISER BICYCLE. New $75. Men’s used cruiser bicycle $35. Must sell. 828782-7221.

BOAT & RV COVERS-WE INSTALL. 14 on Site that you

FOR

WANT TO BUY

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

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

WANT TO BUY: STAMP COLLECTIONS and accumulations of same. Call 828-652-9425 or cell 954-614-2562.

FARM & GARDEN

6588 INTERNATIONAL 4WD TRACTOR. 177 Horsepower with Turbo. PRICED TO MOVE.... NOW $16,000 Call 704-487-6929 or 704-6896042.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

TRAILERS, TRAILERS! DUMP TRAILERS, GOOSENECK, DECK OVER, EQUIPMENT, ALL PURPOSE TRAILERS, CAR HAULERS. Cash, Finance, Credit Cards, Rent to Own (No Credit Check) J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

STEEL BUILDINGS (OPEN OR FULLY ENCLOSED) 14 on Display. 12’ Wide to 40 EVEN 60 Clear Span. “We do Grading, Gravel, Concrete” TURN KEY! J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

NEW CAR SHED LOWER PRICES! Single Car $288 Down from $89 month. Double $395 Down from $123.45 month. J Johnson Sales, 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

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

PLANTS FOR SALE. Hosta-over 20 varieties, Daylily, Iris, Yellowbells, Crape Myrtle, Weeping Cherry Trees. 206 Woodburn Drive, Forest City. 828-245-0245.

BEAUTIFUL CEMETERY PLOTS, GASTON MEMORIAL. 3 Available. Will sell one at a time. Need to sell. Make offer. 919-272-5503, call/text.

CEMETERY LOTS WESTVIEW GARDENS, BC 2 Lots in Eternal Gardens at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City, NC. Cost $2400.00. Will sell both for $1500.00 or one for $900.00. Owner will pay the transfer fee. Call for more information. (704) 616-6051 rebeccapoe@gmail.com

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

TRAILER-BUY-SELL-TRADE!

“Must Have Title” J Johnson Sales (828) 245-5895

STORAGE BUILDINGS NEW, USED, REPOS “BUY, SELL, TRADE!” J Johnson Sales, Forest City, NC. (828) 2455895

Various sizes and styles. Keep it dry and safe! 828-980-0788 or 828286-8674. CO2 TANK 20LBS. Have 2, $150 I have two co2 tanks, one is full and the other is 1/3. Can send pictures by phone. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@bellsouth.net LIVESTOCK TRAILER. $1275 Tandem axle trailer, 2 inch ball. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net 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. DISCOUNT APPLIANCES. Refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. 704-477-4766. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby, NC. (704) 477-4766

LOST & FOUND

LOST MY SET OF KEYS. If Found please contact me. Shelby area. Has Dallas Cowboys Strap and Honda Car Keys & Remote attached. Cal 704-8349848 or 704-431-8100

WANT TO BUY

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 USED MOVING BOXES WANTED. 8 WD’s, 5 DT’s, and 20-.3U. Call 704-905-2398. CASH FOR YOUR CAR. Running or not, title or no title. Call Charles Dellinger at Red Road Towing. 704-6926767, (704) 487-0228

SELL YOUR ABANDONED DILAPIDATED BUILDING I’M LOOKING TO BUY A ABANDONED OR DILAPIDATED BRICK BUILDING BETWEEN 1000-3000 SQFT. THAT HAS A ROLL UP DOOR, PREFERABLY LOCATED IN CLEVELAND COUNTY. WOULD PREFER IT TO BE IN KINGS MOUNTAIN IF POSSIBLE. CAN BE RUNDOWN IN NEED LOTS OF TLC. PLEASE CALL ME IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET RID OF. TIM 661312-6159 (661) 312-6159 SAVEYOUREARTH@LIVE. COM

PETS & LIVESTOCK

AKC/CKC BOXER PUPPY $350. Female boxer pup, 7 months old. Papers, tail docked, shots worming. Location: Shelby, NC (704) 477-3900 wbmanning33@gmail.com

MICRO MINI GOLDENDOODLE PUPPIES. These are F1b multigen Goldendoodles. 7 week puppies, ready to go home in 1 week. Pups will be 10-20lbs fully grown. Pups come vet checked, microchipped, dewormed, first round vaccines, crate trained and potty training started, well socialized and ready to be loved! Cost $2600. Follow us on Instagram @4kids_doodle or check us out at https://www.gooddog. com/breeders/4-kids-doodle-south-carolina 4kidsdoodle@gmail.com MILL-SEC K9 OBEDIENCE Board and Training. Contact us for your free evaluation. 828755-7335.

FREE KITTENS. Free kittens to a good home. Please call after 4:00 pm or text any time. (828) 201-3861 MALE MALTESE AND FEMALE MALTESE. For sale. Call for information. 704-4769273.

DOG KENNELS 5X10, 10X10, 10X20. Dog Houses, Tops for Kennels. “Delivery & Setup Available” J Johnson Sales 2690 221South, Forest City, NC (828) 245-5895

BOER BILLY GOAT FOR BREEDING. 1 1/2 years old. $200. 828-980-5067.

FREE MIXED BREED PUPPY 3 Months old. Free to a good home. 828-287-9456.

CONTURNIX QUAIL $5. Quail Chicks $3 ea. Quail eggs $6 per doz. Bob Whites $8.00. Hatching Eggs. Guineas $10. 704-476-9943 (704) 476-9943 jw28178@gmail.com

FREE FEMALE FULL-BLOODED BEAGLE hunting dog. 828-287-0181.

FAINTING GOATS. All nannys. $150 each. 828-248-8060. AKC DACHUNDS PUPPIES. 5 female AKC Dachunds puppies for sale. Wormed and vet checked. They will be ready July 13. $600 for the black ones and $ 800 for the grey one. (704) 472-1149 robertknox1960@gmail.com

FEMALE AFRICAN GREY PARROTT. 10 years old. (704) 466-8366

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES. BEAUTIFUL, CHUBBY, AND PLAYFUL. 3 MALES BORN MAY 11TH. PARENTS AKC REGISTERED. FULLY WEENED AND VET CHECKED WITH CURRENT SHOTS. LOCATED IN KINGS MOUNTAIN. (704) 974-3296 SONJAT1@YAHOO.COM

4 BOSTON TERRIER PUPPIES. One Male and 3 female Boston Terrier full blood CKC black and white. UTD vaccine and worming. The male is very desirable as he was the smallest in the litter. Desired by breeders and apartment/small space owners. Male 1,100 and Female 1,200. 864-492-5138. Call or text for photos or info. (864) 492-5138 dvcaldwell38@ gmail.com

PUPPIES FOR SALE. Registered miniature Poodles. 2 dark chocolate males. Ready now. 704-692-1185. FREE KITTENS TO GOOD HOME. Lovable, energetic. Four born 4/14/23, three born first of May. 704-616-9489, no answer- leave message.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of SARAH

KATHLEEN SHAW of Cleveland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 10th day of October,2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 12th day of July, 2023.

Personal Representative: WILLIAM LOWELL SHAW, II

Attorney for the Estate and Personal Representative:

MARTHA WALLACE, ATTORNEY

KING LAW OFFICES, PC

209 S. DEKALB ST.

SHELBY, NC 28150

KMH (7/12,19, 26, 8/02/2023)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The public will take notice that the City Council of the City of Kings Mountain has called a public hearing regarding an application for rezoning.

Applicant: Terran Farris/Owner: Betty Humphries have requested an amendment to the Zoning Map of the City of Kings Mountain regarding the following:

Rezone approximately 3.44 acres, identified as Cleveland County Parcel 61718 located on Dixon School Road. The petitioner would like the property rezoned from Suburban Residential (SR) to Auto-Urban

Commercial (AU). Case Z-23-5

The public hearing will be at City Hall, 101 W. Gold Street, Kings Mountain, North Carolina on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Opportunity for public input will be offered during the public hearing portion of the meeting. A copy of the application may be obtained by contacting the City of Kings Mountain Development Services at 704-734-4595. KMH (7/12 & 7/19/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on 29th of June 2023 as Executor of the Estate of Frances Bowen Talent (23 E 291) 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 Adam Michael Bowen, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 12, 2023, 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 12th day of July, 2023.

Adam Michael Bowen

Executor of the Estate of Frances Bowen Talent

c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C.

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (7/12, 19, 26, 8/02/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23 E 484

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Tanya Kay Ramey of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of the said Tanya Kay Ramey to present them to the undersigned by October 5, 2023, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 5th day of July, 2023.

Amber Brooke Kale 130 Colony Drive Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086

Administratrix of the Estate of Tanya Kay Ramey

Counsel for the Estate

J. Charles Hoyle, PC J. Charles Hoyle

Attorney at Law 207 Hoyle’s Road Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086 (704) 734-1050 KMH (7/05, 12, 19 & 26/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTRIX NOTICE

Having qualified on 13th of June 2023 as Executrix of the Estate of Louise Thigpen (23 E 462) 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 Debbie A. Cheek, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 12, 2023, 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 12th day of July, 2023.

Debbie A. Cheek

Executrix of the Estate of Louise Thigpen

c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150 KMH (7/12, 19, 26, 8/02/2023)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 21 E 443

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Carmen Lynn Coles of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of the said Carmen Lynn Coles to present them to the undersigned by September 26, 2023, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 28th day of June, 2023.

J. Charles Hoyle

207 Hoyle’s Road Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086

Administrator of the Estate of Carmen Lynn Coles

J. Charles Hoyle, PC

J. Charles Hoyle

Attorney at Law

207 Hoyle’s Road

Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086 (704) 734-1050

KMH (6/28, 7/05, 12, & 19/2023)

PETS & LIVESTOCK

DO YOU HAVE AN UNWANTED HORSE OR PONY? We will provide a loving home. Grandson needs new pet. 704-4666983.

WHITE LABRADOR PUPPIES. AKC Registered Champion Blood Line White Labrador Puppies available. Mom and Dad on site. 8 pups available. Place orders now. $250. each. 704-473-4299.

HALF BASSET HOUND PUPS. Ready for new home, 1 male, 2 females, rehoming fee $25 each. 828-289-1258.

CARS & TRUCKS

PETS & LIVESTOCK

GOLDENDOODLES $800 GOLDEN DOODLES ALL BLACK. 3 FEMALES AND 4 MALES LEFT ASKING $800.

WE OWN BOTH PARENTS AND A SIBLING OF THE FIRST LITTER. DAD IS AN APRICOT

AKC REGISTERED STANDARD POODLE, AND MOM IS A BLACK CKC REGISTERED GOLDENDOODLE. (980) 552-5916 BRITTNEYS2015@ GMAIL.COM

10 CHICKENS. 2 roosters, 4 hens, 4 chicks. $140 for all or $15 each. 704-273-8105.

AKC REGISTERED GERMAN SHEPHERD. Male, black & tan, turned two on December 25. All shots. $800. 828-4296910.

GERMAN SHEPHERDS PUPPIES Out of the old time large boned dogs. Seeing and believing their size. Delivery may be possible. If no answer, leave message. 828-208-1004.

2000 MITSUBISHI GALANT. RUNS GREAT PLENTY OF POWER, 23MILS PR GAL, NEEDS AIR/RADIO/ PAINT.

2008.788 MILES. SOLD AS IS. CASH ONLY. (828) 8942900

2000 DODGE Conversion Van. 116,000 actual miles, leather, electric, front and back ac. $8500 obo. Showroom perfect. 864-579-8888 2023 CORVETTE COUPE 3LT. Black exterior, jet black interior. $5,930 in options. 1,121 miles. Owner holds title. Cleveland County. Asking $105,788. Text 704-7348407, appointment only.

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

MOTORCYCLES & ATVS 1995 HARLEY DAVIDSON 1200 SPORTSTER. 14,000 miles, some extras. $4,000 OBO. 980-429-7018.

VACATIONS

OCEAN LAKES, BIG DISCOUNTS. On Spring & Fall Weeks. 7 houses, 3 ocean front, some with golf carts. Call Tammy Patterson, 704-4184756. SCENIC RIDGE COUNTRY CAMPGROUND. Cherryville, NC. Cabins. RV Spots, Daily Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal Sites. (704) 435-0938

REAL ESTATE RUTHERFORD COUNTY

IS IT TIME? Own your on home in the country. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, on 2 acres. 6 miles north of Ellenboro. Repainted roof interior and exterior, new carpet in bedrooms, and wood cabinets throughout. Large deck, good driveway. Come help pick your carport. 828-435-5746

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

111 MORTON ST, SHELBY 3 BR, 1 BA. Central air. No appliances included. No pets. $800/ mth. $400 deposit. Contact Tommy Wilson w/Clay & Associates. Cell-704-418-1251.

2 OR 3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES for rent in Shelby, NC. $800-$875 including water. Call 828-234-8147

4 FREE BOXER MIX PUP-

PIES. Free puppies to good home. 4 months old. Boxer mix. Playful. Likes attention. Great with children. 828-289-8900 or 828-2152162 (828) 215-2162 wbhardin24@gmail.com

AKC/CKC BOXER PUPPY

$350. Female Boxer pup 7 months old. Papers, tail docked, shots worming. Location: Shelby, NC (704) 4773900 wbmanning33@gmail. com

CKC TOY POODLES FOR

SALE. Two Boys and One Girl born 5/11/23 ready for their furever home 7/6/23. UTD on shots and wormings. Well socialized. Please visit www.quailhollowpuppies.com (828) 569-9807 juliecarr42@yahoo.com

YORKIE PUPPIES. I have some beautiful Yorkie puppies for sale. They were born 5/3/23 and are currently 6wks old. They will be ready to go 6/23-24th. Tails are docked, will have 1st set of shots, will have CKC paperwork, and come with a puppy pack.

(252) 432-4136

TOY & MINI AUSSIES. UTD on shots and worming. Blue eyes, paper trained. 828-289-6756.

MINI SCHNAUZER FOR SALE. Beautiful mini Schanuzer puppies for sale. White, Brown and Parti. (704) 5344368 lpastore3@yahoo.com

1993 FORD F-150 77,000 miles. $9500, V-8, 5.0 engine, 2-wd, XLT, very clean, dual flowmaster exhaust, long bed, power wd/locks, cruise control, new tires, ac/heat, same family. (704) 575-2784 2001 DODGE DURANGO

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

OCEAN LAKES BEACH RENTAL. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 6. Cancellation for Week 6/24-7/1. Summer weeks also available. 704-473-1494. BEACH RENTAL: Beautiful Oak Island, NC. 3BR, 2BA house & 2BR, 2BA. Near beaches, restaurants. Close to Wilmington, Myrtle Beach. 828-744-9191.

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 2 & 3 Bedroom, deposit required. $210 weekly rates. Includes power and water. NO PETS. NO TEXTING. (704) 473-4299

MOBILE HOMES & APARTMENTS. In Kings Mountain. Please Call (704) 739-4417

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 704487-1114. Equal Housing Opportunity.

com

2005 HONDA ACCORD SDN 121,449 miles, Call for Price, (704) 748-1890 sales@ctcautosports.com

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO CASH? I PURCHASE UNWANTED RENTAL PROPERTY AND/OR STARTER HOMES. MUST BE PRICED TO SELL! “QUICK CLOSINGS”! Call (704) 472-0006

2&3 BEDROOM MOBILE HOMES. Nice and clean, water furnished. Oak Grove Community, Kings Mtn. Call or text, 704-739-0259.

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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

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

By JIM MILLER Editor

How to Handle Social Security Benefits When A Loved One Dies

Dear Savvy Senior,

How are Social Security benefits handled when someone dies? After a long illness, my 68-year-old father has only weeks left to live. I am helping my mom figure out her financial situation going forward, including what to do about my dad’s Social Security after he passes away but could use some help. Only Son

Dear Only, I’m very sorry about the impending loss of your father. To help you and your mom understand what Social Security provides and what needs to be done when a family member dies, here are some key points you should know.

Your first order of business will be to make sure the Social Security Administration is notified when your father dies, so his monthly benefits will be stopped. In most cases, the funeral home providing his burial or cremation services will do it. You’ll need to provide your dad’s Social Security number to the funeral director so they can make the report. But, if they don’t offer that service or you’re not using a funeral home, you’ll

need to do it yourself by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213.

When Benefits Stop

There are a couple of things to be aware of regarding your dad’s Social Security benefits. For starters, you need to know that a person is due no Social Security benefits in the month of their death.

With Social Security, each payment received represents the previous month’s benefits. So, if your dad were to pass away in August, the check for that month – which would be paid in September – would need to be returned if received. If the payment is made by direct deposit, you would need to contact the bank or other financial institution and ask them to return any benefits sent after your dad’s death.

Survivor Benefits

When your father passes away, your mother may be eligible for survivor benefits on his record if she’s at least age 60 (50 if disabled). Here’s how that works depending on her situation.

If your mom is currently receiving Social Security benefits based on your fa-

ther’s work record, her spousal benefit will automatically convert to survivors benefits when the government gets notice of your dad’s death. She cannot receive both spousal and survivor benefits at the same time.

Widows are due between 71 percent (at age 60) and 100 percent (at full retirement age) of what the husband was getting before he died.

If, however, your mom is eligible for retirement benefits (but hasn’t applied yet), she can apply for retirement or survivors benefits when her husband passes away and switch to the other (higher) benefit later. Or, if your mom is already receiving her retirement benefits on her own work record, she could switch to survivors benefits if it offers a higher payment. She cannot, however, receive both benefits.

To apply for survivors’ benefits, your mom will need to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 and schedule an appointment. She can’t do it online.

You should also know that survivor benefits are available to former spouses

and dependents who meet SSA qualifications – see SSA.gov/benefits/survivors.

Also note that if your mom collects a survivor benefit while working, and she’s under full retirement age, her benefits may be reduced depending on her earnings. See SSA.gov/pubs/EN-0510069.pdf for details.

Death Benefit

In addition to survivor benefits, Social Security will also pay a one-time payment of $255 to your mom (the surviving spouse) if she was living with your dad at the time of his death. If they were living apart, she may still receive this one-time payment if she’s collecting spousal benefits on his work record. In the absence of a surviving spouse, the lump-sum payment can go to a son or daughter who is eligible for benefits on the deceased’s work record.

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.