KM Herald 4_22_26

Citizens continue to press council members on critical issues

A City Council United or Divided?

By Allyson Parker

The April 14, 2026, meeting of the Kings Mountain City Council opened on a high note, with every seat taken as the agenda began with a focus on service and community dedication.

2026 Citizen Spirit Award

In a standout moment of the evening, Mayor Robert Wagman presented the 2026 Citizen Spirit Award to Darryl Dixon. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the betterment of Kings Mountain. Mayor Wagner was gracious in his acknowledgment, citing Dixon's ongoing efforts to support the community.

Honoring Our First Responders

The ceremony continued with a special observation of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Mayor Wagman led the recognition of the Kings Mountain 911 Essential Workers, the dispatchers who

of communication in emergencies.

To emphasize the vital role these employees play, the Mayor shared impressive data from the past year:

• Total Calls Processed: 34,614

• Direct 911 Emergency Calls: 8,612

• Impact: These emergency calls were dispatched to all departments, including police, fire, and ambulance services, for citizens in crisis.

Mayor Wagman expressed his deep appreciation for these employees, noting that they are integral to the safety and well-being of the city.

PART 2: CITIZENS’ FORUM — TENSIONS RISE OVER MUNICIPAL LEADERSHIP

Following the opening ceremonies, the atmosphere in the overflowing Council Chambers shifted dramatically as the floor opened for See COUNCIL Page 5A

Alice In Wonderland final performances this weekend

Kings Mountain Little Theatre and corporate sponsor Jack and Pam Buchanan - Edward Jones will present final performances of Alice In Wonderland The Musical on Friday, April 24th at 7:30 PM; Saturday, April 25 at 3:00 and 7:30 PM – Sunday, April 26th at 3:00 PM.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and senior citizens. You may purchase online www. kmlt.org or the Joy Box Office 704-730-9408. Season members may make a reservation at tickets@kmlt. org or by calling 704-7309408. Reservations are not required but are suggested for best seating available. Tickets will be available at the door for walk-ups at all performances. Kings Mountain Little

Theatre, Inc. is a volunteer based, 501c3 tax-exempt community theater. It owns and operates the Joy Theatre and the Liberty Mountain Garden. It is a funded affiliate of the Cleveland County Arts Council and is supported in part by a Grassroots Grant from the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency. Lewis Carroll’s classic storybook adventure is A delightful, fun and gentle-in-a-fantastical-pre-

Litter Sweep A Success!

day’s Litter Sweep was a great success! Local organizations, businesses, and city employees came together to make a real difference in keeping our community clean and beautiful.

sentation of the age-old question every child ponders...”Do I want to grow up?” Come adventure with Alice, her sister and a whole menagerie of characters imagined from her daily life as she seeks to find the answer to this

appreciation for: Brandon Davis, Solid Waste Supervisor; Shawn Sisk, Public Works Director; Susan Mosk, Communications and Marketing Director; KM Forward; Kings Mountain YMCA; The TruNorth and Coldwell Banker Mountain View Real Estate Your time, effort, and teamwork truly help to make a lasting impact for our community!

question. Classic theatre at it’s BEST! You’ve never seen this version It’s Lewis Carroll’s classic storybook adventure! A delightful, fun and gentle-in-a-fantastical-presentation of the age-old question every child ponders...”Do I want to grow up?” Come adventure with Alice, her sister and a whole menagerie of characters imagined from her daily life as she seeks to find the answer to this question. Classic theatre at it’s BEST! You’ve never seen this version before!

■ OBITUARIES

Bobby Gene Hayes

WILMINGTON, NC

– Bobby Gene Hayes, 87 passed away peacefully in Wilmington NC on March 25, 2026.

Hayes was born April 6, 1938 in Shelby, NC and lived there until he joined the US Army. Upon returning from Ft. Hood Texas 1961, he began his law enforcement career in Kings Mountain as a Police Officer. He went on to serve as Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain from 1969 to 1995 and was appointed Chief of Police in 1995.

Following his law enforcement career, he continued his dedication to public

service as a City Councilman At-Large from 1997 to 2001. He was also a member of Cherokee Street Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon for several years. Hayes remained a resident of Kings Mountain for many years after retirement, until relocating to Wilmington in 2021.

A gentle giant to most, ‘Bob’ loved police work and the community he served. During his time on the KMPD he took great pleasure from meeting the many area residents he encountered. He always strived to put himself in the other persons shoes and to lead by example, proving himself to be a man of great integrity and honor. In his pastime he liked classic cars, target practice (having won a trophy in the Army) westerns, a good game of cards and watching sports, even revealing a hidden talent for quoting the stats on most college teams.

He is survived by his wife of over 66 years, Sue Dover Hayes, his daughter Deborah Hayes Conard and his Son-In-Law Michael Conard.

Aaron Eldridge Conner Sr.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Aaron Eldridge Conner Sr., 89, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on April 15, 2026 at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC.

He was born January 19, 1937 in Rutherford County, NC, son of the late Ralph and Lillie Mae Sisk Conner and was preceded in death by his son, Aaron Eldridge Conner Jr, and a granddaughter, Sharon Williams. Aaron was also preceded in death by his 2 brothers, and his only sister.

He was a longtime faithful member of First Wesleyan Church, Kings Mountain. He worked in the tire industry most of his life, having owned his own shop and finally retiring from Carolina Freight after many

years of service.

Aaron enjoyed spending time outdoors. His favorite place was the Smokey Mountains where he and his family enjoyed countless camping trips. He was an avid fan of banjo bluegrass music and enjoyed spending time fishing and riding motorcycles.

Aaron possessed a deep faith and loved spending time reading his Bible and studying the word of God. He was a great fan of classic westerns and could often be found with a bowl of his favorite ice cream or a good milkshake watching a good cowboy movie. He was a wonderful husband, father and a devoted grandfather to 3 generations of grandchildren. Aaron’s love, guidance, and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years: Annie Ruth Proctor Conner, of the home; children: Debra Williams (Don), Kings Mountain, NC, and Cathy Ford (Steve), Bessemer City, NC; daughter-in-law: Sabrina Conner; grandchildren: Alecia Dover (Kevin), Amanda Martin (William), Christy Conner (Xayaphone), David Champion (Stefanie), Caleb Williams (Jordan), and Stevie Ford; great-grandchil-

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Faye Grigg McInnes, 88, of Kings Mountain, NC, entered into eternal rest on April 19, 2026 at Peak Resources in Grover, NC, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her family and community.

Faye was a woman of strong faith and joyful spirit. She found great comfort and purpose in her relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A devoted member of Harvest Time Assembly Tabernacle of Love in Kings Mountain, she loved to sing and worship. Those who knew Faye will always remember her con-

He was preceded in death by his parents Madge and Hubert Padgett, and his brother, Jerry.

Memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, Kings Mountain, NC on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. Rev. Dr. John Sloan, officiating.

Visitation will be from 2:00 - 2:50 P.M. Friday, May 1, 2026 prior to the service at First Baptist Church, Kings Mountain, NC.

Interment will be in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

Memorials can be made to Still Standing, and mailed to: Cleveland County Community Development Corporation 823 West Warren St Shelby, NC 28150. This organization recognizes and supports those shot or seriously injured in the line of duty in Cleveland County and it meant so much to him since he was shot 6 times in the line of duty in 1977.

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

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

dren and spouses: Patrick Ortega (Chris), Brooke Jeffries (Lamont), Kaitlyn Bryant (Robbie), Seth Ortega, Kylie Tomberlin (Steven), Bryant Dover, Taylor Geissinger (Alex), Justin Champion, Chase Champion, Cannon Champion, Conner Champion, Baylee Williams, and Marlee Williams; step-great grandchildren: Luke Lawhorn and Levi Lawhorn; great-great-grandchildren: Emerie Ortega, Wrenley Ortega, Kennedy Geissinger, Riggins Bryant and Roper Bryant.

Funeral service was held on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM at First Wesleyan Church with Pastor Caleb Williams officiating.

Visitation was on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM prior to the service at First Wesleyan Church.

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

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

stantly humming or softly singing praises, carrying her faith with her in every moment of her life.

Faye was deeply devoted to her family. She cherished time spent with loved ones and found joy in life’s simple moments. Her kindness, warmth, and steady presence made her a source of comfort and strength to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bertrand McInnes; her parents, Herbert Grigg and Carrie Davis Grigg; her brothers, Rev. Jess Grigg, Sam Grigg, Bud Grigg, Rev. Jerry Grigg, and Rev. Gene Grigg; and her sisters, Dovie Grigg, Ruby Ellis, Helen Moss, and Eloise Huffstetler. She leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor her memory, including nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-greatnieces and nephews, and great-great-great-nieces and nephews, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched.

Faye’s life was a testament to faith, love, and

■ POLICE

KINGS MOUNTAIN POLICE REPORTS

April 4 – April 16, 2026

April 4

• My-Eisha Nija Morris: P Drug Violation; Drug Equipment/Paraphernalia – Using.

April 5

• Darik Alan Gary Jr: Assault-Simple; Assault on Female-Intimidation.

April 6

• James Eli Walden: Child Support Warrant.

• Ahmed Leggett: Common Law Attempted First Degree Murder; Discharge Firearm Encl. Fear; Going Armed to the Terror; Weapon Violation-Illegal Discharge; Weapon Violations; Damage to Property. April 7

• Jaden Rashad Pinell: Second Degree Trespassing. April 8

• Kaitlyn Ann Morrow: Warrant.

April 9

• Trevor Dantoin Summers: Warrant.

April 11

• Nathaniel Akeem Devon: Warrant.

April 12

• Nue Lleshaj: Felony Possession of Cocaine; Warrant; Possess Drug Paraphernalia.

April 13

• David Scott Lee: P Drug Violation; Possess Drug Paraphernalia.

April 14

• Alexis Michelle Warner: Driving While Impaired; Drugs-All Other; Possess Drug Paraphernalia.

• Patrick Joseph Rowland: DWLR Not Impaired Rev; Possess Drug Paraphernalia; No Liability Insurance.

• Michael Lee Wagenknecht: Drugs-All Other; Warrant.

April 15

• Dereka Janae Addison: All Other Simple Assault; Communicate Threats. April 16

• Amanda Danielle Wright: Criminal Summons.

• Crystal White Braswell: Warrant.

KINGS MOUNTAIN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

April 3 – April 17, 2026 April 3 • Shelby Rd at N Roxford Rd: 2012 Honda ($1,000

devotion. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the songs she sang, the love she shared, and the faith she carried throughout her life.

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Harvest Time Assembly (904 Second St.) with Reverends Sheila Grigg and John Johnson officiating Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. at Harvest Time Assembly Internment will be held in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

Donations in memory of Faye may be made to Harvest Time Assembly at 904 Second St., Kings Mountain, NC 28086.

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

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

City Council Member Scott Neisler issues

By Allyson Parker

At the recent City Council meeting on April 14, 2026, Council member Scott Neisler delivered a lengthy public defense regarding potential ethics violations and a pending censure. Notably, he did not heed the cautionary warnings made by the Kings Mountain City Attorney to halt his comments, which were intended to prevent his

response from contaminating his case. Despite these legal advisories, Neisler spoke for several minutes, citing a captive obligation to his vow as a public servant and an emphatic refusal to resign. However, just months into his term, Neisler’s stance has shifted significantly, noting that his current outlook is far less optimistic than when he began. Having served previously as Mayor, Neisler now

faces serious reputational damage. The UNC School of Government notes that public officials are held to a high standard of accountability; therefore, formal censures can have a "rippling effect" on a politician’s future career and influence.

The Root of the Controversy The situation originated from a common-law forgery case involving a certificate

of liability Neisler provided for an October 2025 fireworks display under a policy that was not in force. The issue has since spiraled into broader accusations regarding his conduct and outside business interests. In his statement, Neisler detailed a breakdown in communication with City Manager Todd Carpenter:

"Early on I met with our city manager and he had a great idea to summarize our discussion and send a review to council each week so all could know information together. This would have been fine had he not twisted my words and misrepresented me on many of the topics we discussed. I immediately communicated to Council by email to straighten out the misrepresentation. No one responded with any reaction."

Neisler further lamented the current political climate, stating:

"To say this is a sad day for me as a public official would be an understatement that this action is taking place, but I shouldn't be surprised based on all the slanderous comments that have been made about me during the election and that have continued as a council member."

Administrative and Financial Allegations

In a formal letter where he referred to himself as a "councilman," Neisler raised several concerns regarding city management:

• Financial Revenue: He claimed the City Manager’s refusal to negotiate with a data center developer cost Kings Mountain millions in potential revenue.

• Utility Costs: He alleged citizens are unfairly paying for a $6 million substation that should have been funded by the casino.

• Public Safety: He questioned the new 800MHz radio system, citing dangerous "dead spots" in schools and City Hall.

• Water Safety & Fire Potential: He challenged official storage figures, asserting the city has only 8 million gallons of water storage rather than the reported 11 million: however it is important to note earlier that comments were made regarding bacteria growth due to storing too much water in the facilities. He argued that lowering levels to fix odor issues would create a fire suppression hazard.

• Legal Fees & Investigation: Neisler criticized the $20,000+ expenditure to investigate him. Attorney Patrick Flanagan of the firm Cranfill Sumner—alongside partners specializing in municipal law—has been retained to lead the investigation. Neisler suggested these funds would be better spent assisting the Crisis Ministry. On April 16, 2026 Scott Neisler participated in an interview per Ken Lemmons with WSOC TV. It may viewed on line.

OPINION

Pieces of Kings Mountain History

I recently read a story regarding the 1914 fire at Mauney Brothers Store, which debunked an assumption I had formed years ago about a familiar building in downtown Kings Mountain.

lives were impacted.

The account I read reported that a 1914 fire at 213 South Battleground Avenue damaged only the front of the building, just enough to strip it of its historic eligibility. It was a detail I accepted without much question, since there was nobody with whom I could substantiate the story.

But history, when given the chance, often tells a fuller story. Thanks to the Kings Mountain Herald’s coverage that night, this story is no longer lost to history.

The Kings Mountain Herald’s April 9, 1914, edition shares the event through a live, on-thescene account. What it revealed was that the fire was not a minor incident, but a dramatic and devastating fire that reshaped far more than the building’s facade. Other buildings were destroyed, and

Just after four o’clock on a Sunday morning, April 5, the alarm was raised. Two men passing through town by automobile had stopped at the public well for water. In the quiet darkness, they heard something unusual, which sounded like someone breaking into a store. With no weapon and little certainty, they bolted to the passenger depot to alert the operator. But before they could finish their warning, flames burst violently from the front of the building.

Within minutes, the fire had taken hold.

The three-story Mauney building on Railroad Avenue, home to J. B. Rhyne’s shoe store and H. T. Fulton’s furniture and undertaking business, was engulfed. Flames surged upward, spilling across the structure and into neighboring space. Townspeople gathered quickly, drawn by the glow and urgency, but the fire moved faster than any effort to contain it. Nothing could be saved.

Men broke into Fulton’s store, hoping to rescue what they could,

but thick smoke forced them back. Three streams of water were trained on the blaze, and though the building itself was lost in less than an hour, their efforts prevented the fire from spreading further. Nearby structures, the Postal Telegraph office and the freight depot, were spared through constant vigilance and relentless work.

In the aftermath, the losses were staggering. Goods, inventory, and

even the Herald’s contest piano being offered in a promotion were reduced to ash. Yet amid the destruction, there were small, almost improbable survivals: the contents of safes remained intact, records still legible, and even an old ledger and a pair of O-Cedar mops endured the heat with little damage.

By Monday morning, before the last embers had cooled, rebuilding had already begun. Workers trimmed the remaining walls and prepared for new brick. Determined and undeterred, the community moved forward almost as quickly as the fire had consumed.

The building would rise again, stronger and

more modern, carrying a story far greater than that of a damaged storefront. And so, what was once thought to be a minor fire becomes something else entirely: a moment of urgency, resilience, and determination, etched into the history of Kings Mountain, waiting to be rediscovered.

The Sad Ending of Justin Fairfax

According to media reports former Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax recently murdered his wife, Cerina. He then took his own life. He was only 47 years old. She was 48.

Justin Fairfax had been a rising star in the Democratic party. He served as the Lieutenant Governor in Virginia from 2018 –2022. He was one of the few African Americans elected to statewide office in Virginia. He was known for his hard work as a federal prosecutor and private attorney. He made history as the second African American elected statewide in Virginia.

Cerina was a dentist. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University. She also graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from VCU Medical College of Virginia. She and Justin had two children, a son and a daughter.

According to reports the couple was embroiled in a messy divorce and ongoing conflict. Their children were home but not harmed

and their son called 911. Such a tragedy makes us all sad. We wonder how two successful people could have such a horrific ending. None of us know the extent of the toxicity that invaded the lives of these two successful people. Who knows for sure what brought about such an ending?

There is always a better way than hurting someone. Emotional pain is never made better by physical violence. Depression, mental illness, a life failure and career failures can add to anyone’s pain but is never made better by doing something bad. The problem is only made worse. Two children are now without parents because their father’s obvious mental breakdown turned ugly.

Every human being has the potential to experience problems, issues, sin and mistakes of all kinds. If you live long enough and do anything at all you will deal with some kind of upheaval, pain or failure. The only way to avoid this to never move and then you won’t have much of a life. Just a walk across the yard presents the potential of

stumbling and falling. Accepting that we are human challenges us to work hard at dealing with things that could make us angry. Uncontrollable anger is problematic anywhere and anytime. Add some alcohol to it and it will develop into a raging inferno that burns you and others. You don’t need that nor does anyone else. If Fairfax’s wife wanted a divorce then so be it and let it be. If the issues cannot be worked out then people need to resolve to go their separate way in a civil manner. Fighting to the bloody end brings about a bad result that frequently impacts the innocent. Too often, the innocent are left behind to spend the rest of their lives trying to figure it all out. You don’t need the stress on the mess. Be at peace with yourself and others.

Sources, NBC News, CNN, Fox News, New York Times

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated columnist read in all fifty states. He is also the author of numerous books and can be hear each weekday morning on XM Radio 131

COUNCIL

From Page 1A

public comment. Residents utilized the forum to voice sharp criticisms regarding city management and offer advice on municipal priorities.

Allegations of Professional Misconduct

The forum began with a candid address from Denise Stallings, a retired healthcare administrative professional.

Ms. Stallings raised serious concerns regarding the ‘unity, negotiation skills, and PR skills’ of the current City Council. Her most pointed remarks

were directed at City Manager Todd Carpenter. She alleged witnessing inappropriate behavior and name-calling by the manager during previous meetings. Most significantly, she highlighted an incident where the City Manager reportedly threatened to quit on the spot—a gesture she characterized as unprofessional and disruptive to city governance.

"If anyone acted in the manner the manager did by calling names and threatening his resignation, I would have expected the resignation on the spot," Stallings told the Council.

Advocacy for Existing Infrastructure

Adding a different perspective to the forum, Kings Mountain resident Tim Saunders approached the council with a focus on fiscal responsibility and property management. Saunders offered a "maintenance first" suggestion, advising the council to prioritize the upkeep and improvement of property and belongings already in the city’s possession. Saunders suggested that the city should focus on better managing its current assets instead of "constantly adding other new property."

Digital Transparency and Fear of Retaliation

The momentum of the forum continued with speaker

Jason Nail, who addressed the growing friction on the city’s official Facebook page. Nail offered a blunt alternative to the city's complaints about negative feedback: “If [Council members] do not want to hear the feedback, turn off the comments.”

Nail argued that there is "a lot of truth" to the feedback being shared online and addressed the recent staff turnover, stating, "When people leave, they leave for a reason." He also claimed that many citizens refrain from becoming involved due to a persistent fear of retaliation from city officials.

Legislative Updates: Public Safety and Visibility

In addition to the public commentary, the Council addressed key legislative updates. A major highlight was the proposal to repeal and replace Chapter 134 of the Code of Ordinances, governing expressive activity in public forums. Chief of Police Gerald Childers was instrumental in the restructuring of these picketing laws to ensure alignment with federal First Amendment protections.

Furthermore, the Council approved an update to Chapter 73 regarding large vehicle parking. This change was implemented specifically to promote visibility and ensure that private driveways are not obstructed, addressing safety concerns regarding "blind spots" created by large vehicles on city streets.

PART 3: UTILITY UPDATES, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND THE CENSURE DEFENSE

Natural Gas and

Infrastructure Investment

The Council took significant steps toward modernizing city utilities by approving a $972,439 contract with Magnolia River for engineering services. Funded by a federal grant, this project focuses on the safety and modernization of the city’s natural gas distribution infrastructure.

The Leadership Issue in Water Resources

The recent resignation of

Water Resources Director William "Will" Nash took center stage during discussions on municipal stability. Jackson Cloninger expressed disapproval of how the City Manager handled the questioning of Nash’s departure. The community remains on edge as the Water Department faces a critical staffing shortage, leaving many to question the city’s ability to manage water quality challenges without a permanent director. Notably, there was no discussion during the meeting regarding a possible replacement for Nash, nor was there any mention of appointing an interim director to fill the role.

Mixed Reports on Utilities

Resident Richard Johnson returned to the podium to offer an update on his ongoing dialogue with the city. Johnson acknowledged that the water quality has seen a noticeable improvement, stating it is "much better now." However, his praise was tempered by a focus on the city's financial trajectory. He voiced continued concerns regarding high taxes and the increasing costs of utilities, pressing the council for more accountability regarding the economic burden placed on residents.

Neisler Breaks His Silence

The tension in the chamber reached its peak when Councilman Scott Neisler took the floor to address the board and the public directly regarding the formal ethics complaint filed against him. Neisler categorized the investigation as a "sad day" and argued that he remains focused on representing his constituents.

During the previous city council meeting they voted 5-2 to move forward with a contract for an outside law firm to investigate the complaints. The dissenting votes were cast by Councilman Neisler and Councilwoman Heather Lemmond. PART 4: COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS AND HOUSING

Juneteenth and

Education Support The Council approved a $4,500 budget amendment to sponsor the Davidson Association’s Juneteenth observance at Patriots Park on June 20, 2026. Educational opportunities were also discussed regarding the "Send-A-Kid to College" Scholarship Program, including expanding eligibility criteria and revising the award structure.

The $1.8 Million Finding In a significant financial update, Dale Green of the Redevelopment Commission informed the Council that he has successfully located $1.8 million in available funds for the city's housing initiatives. While the announcement was a positive development, Green did not disclose which specific area was over-funded or where the money had been misapplied to result in this surplus.

PART 5: CLOSING SENTIMENT

While the forum was dominated by citizen concerns, Mayor Pro Tem Annie Thombs used her platform to express her unwavering confidence in the city’s staff and employees. She addressed the circulating rumors and public commentary with a striking observation: "Half-truths are harder to deal with than straight-out lies."

In past meetings, Thombs has been adamant that she intends to tell the Kings Mountain citizens the truth; however, the exact nature of what this "truth" coincides with remains undefined. She concluded the evening with a personal reflection on the cost of integrity: “Sometimes when you stand for truth, you stand by yourself.”

The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Mayor Wagner and City Manager Todd Carpenter, followed by adjournment.

When will we See our own Road to Emmaus?

God has been showing us throughout the Bible that what we see with our eyes is less important than what we KNOW in our hearts!

The New Testament book of Luke chapter 24:25-27 presents a strong reprimand for a group of Christ-followers who were sad because of what Jesus went through on the cross. It reads as follows:

25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the

prophets have spoken: 26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Why were the disciples sad? They had their minds, like so many of us, on what had just happened, instead of on the purpose for what had just happened... Seeing with their eyes (physical

perception, information, outward awareness) is the enemy to becoming healed (inner transformation, repentance, spiritual awakening, restored relationship with God).

The Bible consistently teaches that a man can have sight and still be blind.

The reason Jesus rebuked his followers for their sadness is because He wanted them to understand that what He did was not just necessary for the salvation of every single one of them, but that if He had not completed His gruesome and extraordinarily horrible task, that what would have happened to the WHOLE world would

have been HELL! Talk about short-sightedness? Jesus then went on to teach them the difference.

But what makes this Sunday after Easter so amazing, was the fact that as soon as they arrived at Emmaus and were having a meal together, their eyes came open and they recognized who this man was... They had been walking and talking this whole time with the same man over whom they thought they were supposed to be grieving ! To make the story even more perfect, as soon as they recognized who he was, he vanished from before them! How excellent

is this example for all of us to see the uniquely powerful way that Jesus taught them? Now they saw and understood firsthand the necessity of Jesus’ death... and for the first time they understood that it was not something about which they should be sad, but very much to the contrary!

The message of the Road to Emmaus jerks us out of our fleshly perspective and sets the eyes of our hearts firmly in the place of rejoicing! Lord, when will we SEE our road to Emmaus?

www.momsinprayer.org

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

Kings Mountain Area Church Directory

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

Sunrise Baptist Church 208 Mail Road 704-692-3007

Temple Baptist Church

612 N. Cansler Street 704-739-4716

The Favor Center Church 602 Slater Street

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

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

First Wesleyan Church

505 N. Piedmont Ave. • Kings Mountain, NC

220 N. Watterson Street

Church

2032 Bethlehem Road

704-730-0075

Macedonia Baptist Church

1101 S. Battleground Ave.

704-739-6811

Midview Baptist Church

703 Margrace Road

704-739-6711

Mount Zion

Missionary Baptist Church

220 N. Watterson Street

704-739-8354

Mountain View Agape Church

506 Sparrow Springs Road

704-739-0160

704-739-8354

New Beginnings Church of Jesus Christ 541 Crocker Road

704-730-9507

New Bynum Chapel

AME

Zion Church N. Cansler Street

704-739-2606

New Camp Creek

Baptist Church 863 New Camp Creek Ch. Road

704-487-7128

New Life Family

Worship Center 428 Oak Grove Road

704-739-9371

Church 1022 Oak Grove Road

704-739-4833

Oak View Baptist Church 1517 York Road

704-739-7831

Pathway Baptist Church

3100 Parkdale Circle 704-734-0852

Patterson Grove

Baptist Church 301 Oak Grove Road 704-739-5826

Penley’s Chapel Church 1805 N Piedmont Ave

704-524-4139

Peoples Baptist Church 1010 Groves Street 704-739-0398

1001 Cleveland Avenue

704-734-1070

Resurrection Lutheran Church 600 Crescent Circle 704-739-5580

Royal Praise Ministries 2055 Shelby Rd.

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

Second Baptist Church 120 Linwood Road 704-739-4216

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

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

Westover Baptist Church 114 Westover Drive

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

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

Ardent Life Church 420 Branch Street 704-739-7700

Arise Church 830 E. King St.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road 704-739-7487

Boyce Memorial ARP Church Edgemont Drive 704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

KMPD Cop Camp 2026

KMPD/ FB

all

Mauney Memorial Library events

The Kings Mountain Police Department will hold “Cop Camp 2026” for students entering grades 4-7 on June 22-26, 2026. Applica-

The Kings Mountain Police Department will hold “Cop Camp 2026” for students entering grades 4-7 on June 22-26, 2026. Application deadline is Thursday, April 30. NO cost to attend. Applications may be picked up at the police department, or school SRO. Lunch, snacks, water and Gatorade provided daily. Limited spots availabe (apply as soon as possible).

tion deadline is Thursday, April 30. NO cost to attend. Applications may be picked up at the police department, or school SRO.

Lunch, snacks, water and Gatorade provided daily.

Limited spots availabe (apply as soon as possible).

1-on-1 Technology

Help: (Business Workshop), Thursday, April 23, 10:00am - 11:30am. Learn – Grow – Play: Friday, April 24th, 10:00am - 11:30am, Library Community Room. Preschool 0-5 years.

Library Storytime: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Community Room. Ages 0-5. Partnership for Children - Kaleidoscope Play and Learn (Children’s program): Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.,

Community Room. Presented by Cleveland County Partnership for Children.

1-on-1 Technology Help: (Business Workshop), Thursday, April 30, 10:00am - 11:30am.

Statewide Burn Ban continues

Since the state-issued ban on open burning was enacted March 28, a total of 554 wildfires has burned more than 2,200 acres across the state. With little rainfall or improvement expected over the next 7-10 days, the statewide burn ban and enforcement action will continue until further notice.

“Even with a burn ban in place we are continuing to see significant wildfire activity across the state because of conditions,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Persistent drought, warmer temperatures, low humidity and no rainfall, mean fires start quickly, spread quickly and burn intensely, which makes them harder to con-

SOUR CREAM COCONUT CAKE

1 butter flavor cake mix

1 16-oz. sour cream

1-1/2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed 2 cups sugar

3 6-oz. pkg. frozen coconut, thawed (reserve 1/2 to 3/4 pk. for topping cake)

Prepare cake mix according to pkg. directions (2 layers). When cool, split both layers horizontally. Combine sugar,

tain, control and extinguish. Our N.C. Forest Service staff will continue to monitor conditions and respond to wildfires across the state, but the public can help by following the burn ban and taking care with anything that can start a fire.” Of the 554 wildfires that have burned since the burn ban took effect, only four have been determined to be the result of lightning strikes. Preliminary data indicates that 152 of those 554 wildfires were determined to be human caused, with the remainder listed as unknown or undetermined, likely pending law enforcement investigation and action. Since the state’s burn See BURN BAN, Page 8A

sour cream and coconut, blending well. Reserve 1 cup sour cream mixture for frosting. Spread remainder between layers of cake. Combine whipped topping. Blend until smooth. Spread on top and sides of cake. Top with reserved coconut. Seal cake in airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days before serving. Serves 12. Can be frozen.

European Classic Car Show set for April 25 in Uptown Shelby

McCuen. “This event allows us to share our passion for European cars while also supporting our community.”

Early-bird registration

and

(1987 or later), French, Italian, or Scandinavian, Exotic, and Others. Final class groupings may vary depending on the day of the show. Entrants will vote for Best in Class and Best in Show from 11

to win. The baskets may be related to cars, food, or different wines. “We typically have at least 50 cars, including classic Jaguars and Bentleys, as well as a wide range of German, Italian, and French vehicles,” Cabaniss said. Proceeds from the show will benefit youth-focused charities, including Teddy Bear & Friends’ Beach Trip for North Shelby students and the Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County, who has seven Clubs throughout the county.

BREMC has hosted the event annually since 2009, donating proceeds each year to local nonprofit organizations that serve area youth.

For more information or to register, contact Cabaniss at 704-472-8759 or visit www.broadriveremc.com.

11th case of rabies identified in Clev. County

On April 15, 2026, the Cleveland County Health Department was notified of a skunk that tested positive for rabies. This is the eleventh rabid animal case identified in the county this year. The animal was found on Wes Cook Road in Casar. Any person bitten or exposed to potentially infectious saliva from this animal should contact their healthcare provider or the local health department for a rabies risk assessment. You may contact the Cleveland County Health Department at 980-484-5169 or 980-484-5100.

Rabies is a fatal yet preventable disease if post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is administered. Rabies is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal or via contamination of open wounds or mucus membranes with potentially infectious material such as saliva.

Prevention of rabies is based on protection of susceptible animals and people and appropriate management of persons and animals exposed to rabies:

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

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

3. Control measures for persons exposed to rabies: Seek

medical guidance from your healthcare provider or the local health department if you believe you have been exposed to rabies.

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

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

Rabies occurs throughout North Carolina. Anyone that sees an animal demonstrating unusual behavior should call Cleveland County Animal Services at 704481-9884.

Reducing the number of new ignitions is critical for sustaining adequate resource availability for an extended period, making state-issued bans a necessary tool for keeping wildfires contained and as small as possible until fully extinguished.

The public is urged to abide by the burn ban and to also use extreme caution with equipment, machines, mowers, vehicles on dry grass, smoking materials such as cigarettes, or anything that can throw a spark. In current high-risk conditions, these could be a possible fire source. While not classified as open burning and not affected by the state’s ban on open burning, they are still contributors to new fire starts across the state.

As the statewide ban on open burning and high fire danger continues, the public can stay informed and prepared to prevent wildfires. The fire danger map and fire danger statements are public-facing tools to help warn of increased wildfire risk due to current and forecast weather conditions. To see fire danger in your area, use the fire danger map and fire danger statements, both available online.

For important information and updates from the N.C. Forest Service about burn bans, fire danger, wildfires, and more, subscribe to receive email and text messages.

Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market opens April 25

The Kings Mountain Hometown Farmers' Market will kick off the 2026 market season on Saturday, April 25 with a special Grand Opening event. The market will operate at 313 S. Battleground Avenue from 8 am until 12 noon every Saturday morning through September 26.

The Grand Opening on April 25 will include an Earth Day celebration that will provide attractions and activities for market shoppers of all ages. In addition to shopping with farmers’ market vendors for a variety of local food and handcrafted products, market shoppers will enjoy:

• Live music

• 4th annual ribbon cutting

• Painted butterfly release at 10 am

• Giveaways including free tomato plants, Japanese maple seedlings, seed packets, and pollinator-themed take homes for kids

• Educational programs and displays on honeybees and other pollinators

• Hands-on craft activity for kids“Grass Head Buddies”

• Free $2 token for POP Club kids to shop the market for fresh fruits and vegetables

• Announcement of the winners of the kid's coloring contest sponsored by Mauney Memorial Library, Albemarle Corporation, and Cleveland County Farm Bureau

• Launch of the Extension Master

Gardener plastic film recycling challenge that will continue all season Albemarle Corporation is the Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market’s 2026 Season Presenting Sponsor.

The Kings Mountain Hometown Farmers’ Market is an extension of the Foothills Farmers’ Market, operating in downtown Kings Mountain. They provide easy access to food produced in Cleveland County and the surrounding 50 miles, and are proud to showcase the family-owned farms and small businesses in our region.

Their vendors produce fresh fruits and vegetables, meat products, baked goods, honey, herbs and other specialty food items. You will also find ornamental and edible plants, along with handmade arts and crafts.

KM Varsity baseball team defeats Forestview

By Jimmy Black

Luke

Heavner

drove in

4 runs on 3 hits to lead the Kings Mountain baseball team past Forestview 17-2 on Friday, April 17, in a game called after 4 and 1/2 innings due to the Mercy Rule. Heavner hit a solo home run to left field in the first inning, doubled in the second inning scoring a run, singled in the third, scoring one, and walked, also in the third, scoring one more.

The Mountaineers scored three more runs in the first inning after Heavner homered. KJ Bell hit a sacrifice fly, Lincoln McDaniel singled down the right field line, and Mason Wright singled to center field, each scoring a run.

Four more Kings Mountain runs crossed the plate in the second inning to extend the lead to 8-0. Heavner doubled, scoring one run, Lawson Kennedy grounded out, scoring a run, and Jordan Buckner homered to center field, scoring two runs.

The Mountaineers then scored eight more runs on five hits in the bottom of the third inning. Heavner singled, scoring one run, Wesley Turner singled, scoring a run, Kennedy doubled, scoring two runs, Bell hit a sacrifice fly, scoring a run, KB Richards singled, scoring a run, Heavner drew a walk, scoring one run, and Turner was struck by a pitch, driving in a run. For the game, the Mountaineers tallied 15 hits.

Wesley Turner earned the win for Kings Mountain.

The hurler surrendered 2 hits and zero runs over 4 innings, striking out 4 and walking none. Camden Tarbush took the loss for the Jaguars. The starter went 2 innings, surrendering 8 runs on 7 hits, striking out 1 and walking 2. Gavyn Manion appeared in relief for the Mountaineers.

Kings Mountain improved its record to 9-9 on the season and 5-3 in Big South 5A/6A Conference play with the win.

Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, April 14, Kings Mountain lost a hard-fought game on the road to the Crest Chargers. KJ Bell struck out 10 Charger batters while surrendering 3 hits, 3 runs and 5 walks over 5 and 2/3 innings.

Hudson Lund earned the win for Crest. The starting pitcher surrendered 4 hits and zero runs over 7 innings, striking out 11 and walking 1. Landry Ohmstead provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led Crest with 2 runs batted in. The catcher went 1-for-3 on the day. Ohmstead, Jackson Swenson, and Eli Black each collected 1 hit each for Crest.

The Mountaineers will be on the road on Friday, April 24, as they travel to take on the North Gaston Wildcats. They will then be back at home on Tuesday, April 28, as they welcome the Ashbrook Green Wave. Both games start at 7 pm.

Kings Mountain Varsity Mountaineers will travel to North Gaston for their next game on Friday.

KM softball notches 10th straight win!

By Jimmy Black

The Kings Mountain women’s softball team captured their 10th straight win last Friday night, April 17, against the Forestview Jaguars by a score of 10-0. But before we talk about that game, let’s review action from earlier in the week.

On Tuesday, April 14, Kings Mountain traveled to Boiling Springs to take on a tough Crest Charger squad. Crest entered the game with a record of 13-3, but they were no match for the Mountaineers.

Crest got on the scoreboard first with a run in the bottom half of the first inning. Sage McCurry had an RBI single for the only run that the Chargers would score on the evening.

Kings Mountain wasted little time in taking the lead. In the top of the second inning, the Mountaineers plated 3 runs along with 3 more runs in the top of the third. Anna Wooten led the Kings Mountain offense with 3 hits and 3 RBI on the night. Kayla McSwain and Maddie Huffman also had 3 hits, with McSwain driving in 1 run. Addison Carpenter also chipped in with a hit to complete the Mountaineers 10-hit attack. Crest had 6 hits for the game. They were led by Sage McCurry and Allie Summer who had 2 hits each.

Once again, Maddie Huffman was magnificent on the mound. She pitched a complete game by surrendering only 1 run while yielding no walks and striking out 14 Charger batters.

Lilly Pruett took the loss for Crest going 5 innings, giving up 5 runs while striking out 4 Kings Mountain hitters. The Mountaineers also had 2 stolen bases in the game.

Then on Thursday, April 16, Kings Mountain visited the undefeated West Lincoln Rebels in Vale for a non-conference matchup. Kings Mountain handed the Rebels their first loss of the season by the score of 3-0. West Lincoln had won their first 15 games to start the year!

I’ll bet you can guess who the pitching star of the game was. That’s right, it was Maddie Huffman! For the contest, Huffman pitched a complete game allowing only 1 hit while striking out 14 and yielding no walks. Another complete performance for the Kings Mountain senior!

Even though the Mountaineers only scored 3 runs in the contest, they did have 12 hits. In addition to her dominating performance on the pound, Maddie Huffman also had 3 hits in the game. Avery Cruise, Anna Wooten and Katie Huffman each contributed 2 hits with Wooten driving in 2 RBI. The Kings Mountain team batted .375 for the game.

Finally, on Friday, April 17, the Mountaineers hosted the Forestview Jaguars. For the tenth straight game, Kings Mountain came out on top by a score of 10-0 in a contest that was called after 5 innings due to the Mercy Rule. Kings Mountain went ahead quickly by scoring 1 run in the first inning and 4 more in the second. For the game, the Mountaineers collected 10 hits, led by Kayla

McSwain who had 2 hits. Eight other Kings Mountain batters had 1 hit each for the game. Addison Carpenter, Avery Cruise and Ezra Lynn each contributed with 2 RBI a piece. Kings Mountain also had 7 stolen bases led by Addison Carpenter and Desiree Green with 2 each. Pitching for the Mountaineers was Anna Wooten. She pitched a complete game yielding 4 hits and 2 walks while striking out 6 Jaguar batters. With the win, Kings Mountain improved to 15-3 on the year while Forestview dropped to 4-12. The Mountaineers have a busy week ahead. They play tonight in a non-conference game at Robbinsville, then they play Friday at North Gaston, before wrapping up the week on Tuesday night at home against Ashbrook.

By Jimmy Black

The Kings Mountain

men’s and women’s track

Team competed on Thursday, April 16, at the TriCity Invitational track meet at RS Central High School in Rutherfordton. Both teams came in a strong second in the meet!

On the ladies’ side, the Mountaineers had 2 first place finishes. Kings Mountain came in first in the 4 X 200 m Relay event with a time of 1.51.61. Team members included Jaz ‘Lynn Hullender, Nakadan Early, Alyssa Deal and Kieanna Ellis. Jazz

‘Lynn Hullender also placed first in the Long Jump with a leap of 16 feet no inches. For the men, Kings

Mountain had five first place finishes. Joakin Shorts finished first in the 400 m run with a time of 51.95 seconds. Luke Howell won the 3200 m race with a time of 10.46.21. Colton Willyoung captured the Pole Vault competition with a vault of 12 feet 4 inches. Plus, the 4 X 400 m Relay team had a firstplace finish along with the 4 X 800 team. Overall, it was a great showing for the Mountaineers! The East Burke Cavaliers won both the Men’s and the Women’s overall titles. 11 men’s teams competed, while there were 12 women’s teams. Here are the final team scores from the meet:

By Jimmy Black

The Kings Mountain Men’s Golf Team participated in a match on Tuesday, April 14, at the Lincoln Country Club in Lincolnton with six other schools. The South Point Red Raiders won the team competition with a score of 294. The Mountaineer team placed third in the event. Individual scores for the Kings Mountain team were Noah Rhodes, who shot an 82, Grant Moorhead with an 84, Joseph Johnson and Rey Medina shot 89 respectively, and Matthew Kiser shot a 90. The medalist for the match was Aidan McGinnis from South Point with a score of 67. The golf team participated in a match yesterday hosted by South Point High School at Pine Island Country Club. Below are the team results from last week’s match:

South Point - 294

327

KM men’s tennis team splits 2 matches

By Jimmy Black

Last week, the Kings Mountain Men’s Tennis Team split their two matches. The Mountaineers defeated Ashbrook by a score of 7-2 on Tuesday, April 14, but they lost to South Point 8-1 on Thursday, April 16. Kings Mountain now has a record of 4-4 on the season while Ashbrook dropped to 2-9 and South Point improved their record to 10-1. Here are the results of the matches.

KM VS. ASHBROOK: SINGLES

1) Dom Allen (KM) def. Nolan Phoummalayvane (Ash) 6-2, 6-0

2) Landon Webster (KM) def. Landon Phoummalayvane (Ash) 6-0, 6-1

3) Camden Morris (KM) def. Juan Flores (Ash) 6-2, 6-3

4) Marquise Thomas (KM) lost to Nicolas Miranda (Ash) 3-6, 6-1, 3-10

5) Elijah Propst (KM)

lost to Kamari Taylor (Ash) 4-6, 3-6

6) Christian Smith (KM) def. Jeremiah Serrano (Ash) 6-3, 6-1

DOUBLES

1) Allen/Webster (KM) def. L. Phoummalayvane/ Flores (Ash) 8-3

2) Morris/Thomas (KM) def. N. Phoummalayvane/ Taylor (Ash) 8-4

3) Smith/Parker (KM) def. Miranda/Serrano (Ash) 8-6

KM VS. SOUTH POINT: SINGLES

1) Dom Allen (KM) lost to Rex Dover (SP) 0-6, 0-6

2) Landon Webster (KM) lost to Shin Roh (SP) 0-6, 0-6

3) Camden Morris (KM) lost to Austin Kellogg (SP) 0-6, 0-6

4) Marquise Thomas (KM) lost to Caleb Dellinger (SP) 1-6, 0-6

KM Junior Varsity defeats Crest in baseball action

By Jimmy Black

The Kings Mountain Junior Varsity Mountaineers were victorious on the road against Crest 9-5 on Tuesday, April 14. Their record now stands at 4-5-1 on the season.

The Mountaineers got on the board in the first inning after Braeden Morrissette singled, scoring one run. But Crest quickly took the lead back in the bottom of the first. Jordan Fowler singled, scoring two runs, to give Crest the edge, 2-1.

Kings Mountain then took the lead, 5-2, in the

KM women’s soccer has up and down week

top of the fourth thanks to singles by Will Acuff, Eli Caldwell, and Amir Parker. KB Richards earned the win for the Junior Varsity Mountaineers. The starting pitcher allowed four hits and three runs over four innings, striking out four and walking five. Tanner Heagen took the loss for Crest. He went five innings, allowing seven runs (four earned) on eight hits, striking out five and walking one. Brock Phillips collected the save for Kings Mountain. The Mountaineers tallied 10 hits in the game. Eli

Caldwell led Kings Mountain with two runs batted in from the number seven spot in the lineup. The outfielder went 2-for-4 on the day. Braeden Morrissette, Wyatt Benfield, and Eli Caldwell each collected two hits for the Mounties. Cam Mitchell and John Ridings each collected two hits for Crest. Jordan Fowler and John Ridings drove in two runs apiece for the Chargers. Mari Jolley led Crest with three walks. With the loss, the Crest JV Team fell to 8-4-1

April 24

* JV Baseball @ North Gaston (4:00

* Softball @ North Gaston (6:00 PM)

* Women’s Soccer @

April

5) Elijah Propst (KM) lost to Andrew Langley (SP) 2-6, 2-6

6) Christian Smith (KM) def. Samuel Morgan (SP) 6-1, 6-4

DOUBLES

1) Allen/Webster (KM) lost to Kellogg/Morgan (SP) 3-8

2) Morris/Thomas (KM) lost to Dellinger/Langley (SP) 0-8

3) Parker/Freeman (KM) lost to Johnson/Williams (SP) 1-8

The Kings Mountain women’s soccer team tied the Crest Chargers on Tuesday, April 14, in Boiling Springs. The final score was 3-3. Then on Friday, April 17, the Forestview Jaguars came to town and collected a 5-0 victory over the Lady Mountaineers. Katalina Carter had 2 goals for the Jaguars in their victory. Kings Mountain now stands at 6-4-1 on the season. The Mountaineers will play at North Gaston on Friday, April 24, and they will host Ashbrook on Tuesday, April 28. Both games will start at 6:00 pm.

By Gary Miller

There’s nothing like barreling down the lake in the spring or summer at 5:00 in the morning. The cool mist will wake up anyone. But it’s not really the air that is alarming, it’s the possibility of a big bass that is ready for breakfast – buzz bait style. To see the calm water come to life with a massive explosion is fishing at its finest. There is, however, a technique for this type of fishing. Most people set the hook when they see the bass strike. That is a big mistake. You just missed another one. The art of catching bass on a buzz bait is not to set the hook when you see the bass strike but to wait until you feel the tug. The time between the two may only be a second but it’s the difference between success and failure. It is a hard discipline for some because we are so used to responding immediately to sight. It looks like a strike. It looks like I’ve got him. It looks like he’s on. But he’s not. Not until you feel the tug. This is a great lesson for life. Most of the time, we live our lives according to what we see. And we react accordingly. We think whatever the circumstances look like, that is what they must be. If it looks hopeless, it must be. If it looks like the end, it must be. If it looks like there is no way out, there must not be. And we react accordingly. There is, however, a mechanism that God has placed within us. It’s a tug. It’s the voice of God saying, don’t walk by sight, but by faith. It is him saying don’t ever count the situation hopeless until I have been added to the equation. It is him saying, no matter how bleak the circumstance is, I will have the last word. Friend, don’t set the hook on your circumstances at the first sight of trouble. Wait on the tug of God and he will turn every situation into one that is worth keeping.

Gary

Cleveland Community College volleyball coaching transition

Cleveland Community College has announced that Head Volleyball Coach Jamie Wilson is stepping down from her position with the Yetis to accept a new opportunity as Assistant Coach at Presbyterian College, an NCAA Division I program competing in the Big South Conference.

Assistant Coach Aaliyah Byers will serve as Interim Head Coach as the Yetis prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.

Wilson was hired in 2022 to launch the Yetis first-ever volleyball program. In just three seasons, the program earned 60 wins and quickly emerged as a respected competitor within Region 10 and the NJCAA.

Under Wilson’s leadership, the Yetis demonstrated both athletic and academic excellence. A total of 28 student-athletes were named to the All-Academic Team during her tenure, reflecting the program’s commitment to success beyond competition.

The 2024–25 season marked a significant step forward for the program, highlighted by multiple wins over nationally ranked opponents, including victories over No. 9 Caldwell Community College and No. 11 Sandhills Community College. The Yetis earned four wins over nationally ranked teams during the season and advanced to the Region 10 Division II Championship match, finishing as runner-up after a dramatic five-set comeback victory over Cape Fear Community College in the semifinals.

The Yetis continued their postseason push by

advancing to the District Tournament, where they took nationally ranked Walters State Community College to five sets, narrowly missing a berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.

The program maintained its upward trajectory in the 2025–26 season, including a win over No. 8 nationally ranked Caldwell Community College, while also setting new program records.

“Coach Wilson’s leadership, passion, and commitment to student-athletes have created a strong foundation that will continue to benefit this program for years to come,” said Athletic Director Andy Gardner. “We are grateful for the impact she has made on our institution and wish her the very best in her next chapter.”

Wilson expressed gratitude for her time at Cleveland Community College and pride in the student-athletes who helped shape the program’s early success.

“It has been an incredible opportunity to develop this program and work with such dedicated student-athletes,” said Wilson. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and confident that the program will continue to grow and succeed.”

Byers, who has served as an assistant coach with the Yetis over the past year, will now step into the role of Interim Head Coach during

the offseason, providing continuity and leadership as the program prepares for the 2026 fall season.

A 2022 graduate of Kings Mountain High School, Byers was a twotime Player of the Year and surpassed 1,000 career kills during her prep career. She went on to compete at the NCAA Division I level at Wright State University, where she earned All-Freshman Team honors and helped lead her team to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. Byers later transferred to The Citadel to continue her academic and athletic career before a neck injury led to her medical retirement.

Despite that setback, Byers has remained committed to the sport and has made an immediate impact in her first season on the Yetis coaching staff.

“Our priority is to support our student-athletes and maintain the momentum of this program,” Gardner added. “With Aaliyah’s leadership and familiarity with our team, we are confident in a smooth transition and excited about the future of Yetis volleyball.”

With a strong foundation in place and time to prepare during the offseason, the Yetis look ahead with enthusiasm and confidence as they begin a new chapter and set their sights on the 2026 season.

Pinnacle Classical Academy dedicates new building

Federal, state, and local officials joined Sen. Debbie Clary, co-founder and board chair of Pinnacle Classical Academy, at the official dedication of Pinnacle Classical Academy's grade 4-12 school building at its Joes Lake Road campus on April 10.

Sen. Clary thanked the USDA for the $28 million in loans that made possible the building's construction and expansion in two phrases. Clary also thanked Holland & Hamrick Architects, TC Strickland Construction, and David Clary

Construction for their roles in designing and completing the building's second phase.

"We are honored to be your partner," Robert Hosford, the USDA's State Director for Rural Development, said at the building's dedication. "I can't think of a better partner to administer your funds as a taxpayer."

Rep. Tim Moore and Sen. Ted Alexander also addressed the gathering, as did Kevin Gordon, chairman of the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners, and Lindsay

Reusser, regional director for Sen. Ted Budd.

Rep. Moore said that he was "really proud" of the development of Pinnacle Classical Academy, which Sen. Alexander described as an "exciting example" of a public-private partnership. Gordon, representing the Board of Commissioners, said that the school is a "great asset" to Cleveland County.

Pinnacle Classical Academy, a tuition-free public charter school, opened its doors as a K-6 school with 308 students in 2013. It has since grown to a K-12 school with 1,213 students. U.S. News & World Report ranks Pinnacle Classical Academy among the best elementary schools, best middle schools, and best high schools in the nation.

Submitted by Jeff Ziegler

LEGAL NOTICE

OF CREDITORS

NOTICE

Having qualified as Executrix over the Estate of Charlotte S. Stinnett, deceased, late of Cleveland, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before July 17th, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.

This is the 15th day of April, 2026

26 E 173

Jennifer Stinnett Thomas, Executrix

c/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/15, 22, 29 & 5/06/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000252-220

Having qualified on 8th of April, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of BOB JACK 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, Janice Lewis Clark, Administratrix on or before the 25th of July, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of April, 2026.

Janice Lewis Clark, Administratrix

PO Box 25 Dallas, NC 28034

KMH(4/22, 29, 5/06 &13/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000115-220

Having qualified on 24th of March, 2026 as Executor of the Estate of RITA DIANE SINGLETON, 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, Donald Allen Singleton, Executor on or before the 3rd of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 1st day of April, 2026.

Donald Allen Singleton, Executor 1895 Adare Dr Clemmons, NC 27012

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 9th of April 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Sajad Damon Roberts, Sr. (26E000232-220), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified, to A. Susan Biggers, Administrator, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 23, 2026, 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 22nd day of April, 2026.

A. Susan Biggers, Administrator of the Estate of Sajad Damon Roberts, Sr. Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/22, 29, 5/06 &13/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 25E000023-220

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of JERRY MELVIN SMITH of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Jerry Melvin Smith to present them to the undersigned by June 30, 2026, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 1st day of April, 2026.

Brady Austin Smith

6126 Casar Road

Casar, NC 28020

Executor of the Estate of Jerry Melvin Smith

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269

(704) 487-7204

KMH (4/1, 4/8, 4/15 & 4/22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24E000065-220

Having qualified on 24th of March, 2026 as Executor of the Estate of PAUL EDMUND SZYMBORSKI, AKA PAUL EDMUND SZYMBORSKI, JR. 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, Jane Hendrick Szymborski, Executor on or before the 3rd of July, 2026 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 1st day of April, 2026.

Jane Hendrick Szymborski 1005 Rollingwood Dr. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/1, 4/8, 4/15 & 4/22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

24E000720-220

Having qualified on 7th of April, 2026 as Executrix of the

Estate of JOANN S. SMITH, 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, Teresa S. Negus, Executrix on or before the 17th of July, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 15th day of April, 2026.

Teresa S. Negus, Executrix

313 Wintergreen Court Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (4/15, 22, 29 & 5/06/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix over the Estate of Steven Odis Costner, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before, July 25th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned Estate Executrix.

This the 22nd day of April, 2026.

25 E 692

Carolyn Smith Costner, Executrix

C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/22, 29 , 5/06 & 13/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000157-220

Having qualified on 26th of March, 2026 as Executor of the Estate of CHARLES E. HAMILTON, IV, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned, Robert Wayne Hamilton, Executor on or before the 3rd of July, 2026 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 1st day of April, 2026.

Robert Wayne Hamilton, Executor 3812 Pinetop Rd. Greensboro, NC 27410

KMH (4/1, 4/8, 4/15 & 4/22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23 E 57

Having qualified on 10th of April, 2024 as Co-Administrator of the Estate of DAVID LEON BRADSHAW, 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, Linda E. Bradshaw, Co-Administrator on or before the 17th of July, 2026 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 15th day of April, 2026.

Linda E. Bradshaw, Co-Administrator

1426 Frederick Street Shelby, NC 28150

James A. Bradshaw Jr., Co-Administrator

1426 Frederick Street Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/15, 4/22, 4/29 & 5/6/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 24th of March 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Verna Randall Cates (26E000206-220), 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 Mike Nicholson AKA Michael Nicholson, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 2, 2026, 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 1st day of April, 2026.

Mike Nicholson AKA Michael Nicholson Executor of the Estate of Verna Randall Cates c/o A. Susan Biggers Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000205-220

Having qualified on 23rd of March, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of LAWRENCE DARRELL TONEY, 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, Tracy Lynn Piercey, Administratrix on or before the 3rd of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 1st day of April, 2026.

Tracy Lynn Piercey, Administratrix 2912 Sheree Lane Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25E000574-220

Having qualified as Executor of the ESTATE OF MYRA KAY HOWELL, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Myra Kay Howell to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, David William Howell, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 1st day of July, 2026 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 1st day of April, 2026.

David William Howell, Executor of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/1, 4/8, 4/15 & 4/22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23E000629-220

Having qualified on 9th of April, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of JOHN WESLEY BOTTS, 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, Christie M. Botts, Administratrix on or before the 17th of July, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 15th day of April, 2026.

Christie M. Botts, Administratrix

313 Cornith Church Road Casar, NC 28020

KMH (4/15, 22, 29 & 5/06/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK File No. 26E000228-220

In the Matter of the Estate of:

RAYMOND JOSEPH VAMPRAN, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 6th day of April, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Raymond Joseph Vampran, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Administrator on or before the 14th day of July, 2026 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 15th day of April, 2025.

Kiyomi Kitamura Vampran 105 Wells Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086

T. Brandon Jaynes Archonix Law

412 N. Lafayette St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/15, 4/22, 4/29 & 5/6/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000201-220

Having qualified on 15th of April, 2026 as Executor of the Estate of ROSEMARY MILLER ARMOUR, 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, Anthony Wayne Armour, Executor on or before the 25th of July, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of April, 2026.

Anthony Wayne Armour, Executor 515 Gantts Grove Church Rd Mooresboro, NC 28114

KMH (4/22, 29, 5/06 &13/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000152-220

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Morgan Timothy Cameron, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before July 1st, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This is the 1st day of April 2026.

Alene Cameron, Administrator of the Estate of Morgan Timothy Cameron 1932 Hopewell Friends Rd Asheboro, NC 27205

N. BLANE STANALAND

Teague Rotenstreich Stanaland Fox & Holt, P.L.L.C. 101 South Elm Street, Suite 350 Greensboro, NC 27401

Telephone: (336) 272-4810

Fax: (336) 272-2448

KMH (4/1, 4/8, 4/15 & 4/22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000129-220

Having qualified on 18th of March, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate of WILLIE EDWARD SHIRAH, 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, Cynthia Kay Nunnery, Executrix on or before the 3rd of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 1st day of April, 2026.

Cynthia Kay Nunnery, Executrix

315 Webb Farm Rd Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 17th of March 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Terry J. LaMountain (26E000165-220), 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 Larry Gene McCurry, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 2, 2026, 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 1st day of April, 2026.

Larry Gene McCurry

Executor of the Estate of Terry J. LaMountain

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 26th of March 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Nancy Joann Mintz Mack (26E000194-220), 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 Shanara Mintz, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 2, 2026, 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 1st day of April, 2026.

Shanara Mintz

Administrator of the Estate of Nancy Joann Mintz Mack c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 2nd of April 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Carolyn W. Arrowood (25E001914220), 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 Barry Wayne Arrowood, c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 23, 2026, 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 22nd day of April, 2026.

Barry Wayne Arrowood

Executor of the Estate of Carolyn W. Arrowood

c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/22, 29, 5/06 &13/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000220-220

Having qualified on 31st of March, 2026 as Co-Executors of the Estate of NANCY HICKS LATTIMORE, 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, John C. Lattimore, Co-Executor on or before the 10th of July, 2026 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 8th day of April, 2026.

John C. Lattimore, Co-Executor

335 E. Main St. Lawndale, NC 28090

Edgar A. Lattimore Jr., Co-Executor

7405 Hull Road Lawndale, NC 280990

KMH (4/8, 4/15, 4/22 & 4/29/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor over the Estate of Mary Freeman Hill, deceased, late of Cleveland, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before July 10th, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.

This is the 8th day of April, 2026

26 E 188

Sarah Godfrey Lynn; aka, Sarah Godfrey Hayes c/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/08, 15, 22 & 29/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administratrix over the Estate of Carl Ramon McNeilly, deceased, late of Cleveland, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before July 10th, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned estate administrator.

This is the 8th day of April, 2026

26 E 159

Carla McNeilly Peavy, Administratrix

c/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (4/08, 15, 22 & 29/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

Published Notice to Creditors

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of James David Sisk, Jr., late of 1108 Old Charles Road, Shelby, Cleveland County, North Carolina, 28152, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 1009 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203, on or before the 15th day of July, 2026, 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 15th day of April, 2026.

Thomas M. Caune II

Attorney for Administrator, Tammy Sisk Ledbetter

Thomas M. Caune II Hull & Chandler, P.A. 1009 East Boulevard Charlotte, NC 28203

KMH (4/15, 22, 29 & 5/06/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 24th of March 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Yvonnia Hosch Morgan (26E000207220), deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly verified A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before July 2, 2026, 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 1st day of April, 2026.

A. Susan Biggers

Administrator of the Estate of Yvonnia Hosch Morgan

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (4/01, 08, 15 & 22/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 26E000072-220

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of JO ANN RICHARDS of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Jo Ann Richards to present them to the undersigned by July 21, 2026, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 22nd day of April, 2026.

Edward Kenneth Richards

503 S Battleground Avenue Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Executor of the Estate of Jo Ann Richards

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204

KMH (4/22, 4/29, 5/6 & 5/13/2026)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

YOU’VE GOTTA TRY CLECO SPICES! Available at Oliver’s Hardware (3712 Fallston Road) Hwy. 18 N., Shelby; Hometown Hardware (110 S Railroad Ave.) Kings Mountain; Nature’s Generosity (1074 College Ave.) Shelby and Whimsical Workshop (104 Gidney Street) Shelby. Or visit www.clecospice.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

NC (754) 663-9663

PAID FOR GOLD & SILVER. JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-600-6996 or (980) 295-5568

HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED YET? Visit thepixelunderground.com. The Pixel People Pod is our 80s-themed podcast. We discuss 80s things as Generation X kids, such as the toys, music, movies and people we grew up with. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, www.youtube. com/@Thepixelunderground & iHeartRadio!

UNIQUE CHURCH IN SHELBY. The Chapel of Christ. Visit our website at www.chapelofchristshelby.com (704) 538-7888 tware5@carolina.rr.com

ABOUT MY FATHER’S BUSINESS FELLOWSHIP May 2; 3-5pm. A free community dinner to fellowship and lift up the name of Jesus Christ. Preaching, singing, testimonies and guest speaker Michael and Jill Tate. Jesus Way Church; 1254 Old Ballpark Rd., Spindale. (828) 429-7296 myfathersbusinessdiscipleship@ gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

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

HANDYMAN WANTED: Handyman wanted to remodel rental units. Pay based on experience. Must have tools and dependable truck. 336-225-1050.

PROCESS ENGINEER.

UNIQUETEX LLC has openings for Process Engineer in Grover, NC, to support and optimize nonwoven manufacturing processes, assist with production planning and testing, collect/analyze production data, help with troubleshooting and process documentation/SOPs, and prepare basic technical reports using spreadsheets/ automation tools. Req’d: B.S. in Industrial, Manufacturing, or related Engineering. Knowl of manufacturing processes, material–process interaction, basic CAD (e.g. SolidWorks/ AutoCAD), and data/automation tools (e.g. VBA/SQL). Pls fwd resume to fang@uniquetex.com. EOE.

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT HERE!

EMPLOYMENT

LOCAL CONSTRUCTION

COMPANY LOOKING FOR framers and concrete workers. Work is local. Prefer skilled or will train. Call/text (352) 807-1048

PART-TIME SECRETARY PO-

SITION. Zion Baptist Church is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented individual to serve as Church Secretary. This is a part-time position, working up to 25 hours per week. Application Process: The hiring process is expected to be completed by mid-May 2026. To apply or to receive more information about the position, please submit your resume and any supplemental information to: Mail: Zion Baptist Church – Secretary Position 525 W. Zion Church Road Shelby, NC 28150. Email: will@ zionbaptistshelby.org (Please include “Secretary Position” in the subject line.)

GUTTER GUYS NOW HIRING! Metal Roof Installer experienced in various metal roofing applications & Gutter Installer with 3-5+ years experience looking to join a growing team. Competitive pay + benefits package. Apply today! (704) 879-4384

PART-TIME CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR. Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Forest City, NC is seeking a part-time Children’s Ministry Director. Send resume to ejw9738@gmail.com or mail it to 2676 Hudlow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043.

BUSINESS SERVICES

ROB’S LAWN CARE. I do lawns in the Shelby Area. Reasonable Rates! Call (704) 473-4660

CUSTOM CABINETS & WOODWORK. Over 25 years Experience. Michael Mckinstry. Custom Woodwork, Cabinets, Light Plumbing, Sheetrock, Landscaping. Veteran Owned. (203) 512-5503

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Small jobs: underpens, outside fireplace, patios, retaining walls- brick, block and stone. 40 years experience. Call/text (863) 532-1587

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

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

ANY TYPE FENCE IN-

STALLED TODAY. We install and repair any and all types fencing. Chain link, vinyl, aluminum, wood privacy, split rail, and even agricultural fencing. Call us today for all your Fencing Solutions. Lisenby Fencing Solutions LLC. We also build decks! Call today. (704) 318-7622 shane.lisenby@yahoo.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

J&J MOVING SERVICE. Need something moved? “We will haul it!”. We also haul off junk furniture, appliances, etc. “Fair Prices”. Call 980-4373590 or (980) 577-8180

HANDYMAN SERVICES. SPECIALIZING IN SMALL & MINOR HOME REPAIRS in the Kings Mountain, Shelby, Gastonia Area. NEW SERVICE: Kitchen Cabinets Refreshed. Renew your kitchen cabinets without replacing them. Save time & money. Call or text for more information. (910) 474-2374

NEED HELP??? Offering painting, debris removal, cleaning, pressure washing and more. Specials for landlords. Reasonable rates. Rutherford County area. Call Thomas 828-429-9276. (828) 429-9276 FOR REASONABLE RATE

LAWN SERVICE. Call (704) 472-4737

HOME REPAIRS WITHOUT THE STRESS. HANDYMAN SERVICES FOR HOME REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS, INCLUDING INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DOOR INSTALLATION, TRIM WORK, SMALL DRYWALL REPAIR, MINOR CARPENTRY, AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE. RELIABLE SERVICE WITH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AT FAIR PRICES! (704) 466-2333

MULCH HAULED AND SPREAD. Bulk or bagged (small truck loads). Call Robert at (980) 295-0750 for a fast quote to top off your gardens and beds in Cleveland County.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. K&M Handyman Service LLC is looking for new clients. Please contact us now for a Free! Estimate. (M-F 8am-4pm) Thank You! (864) 881-3816 kengrubb1973@ gmail.com

LAWN CARE SERVICES. Lawn services for Cleveland and surrounding areas. We offer mowing, spraying and fertilizing. Free estimates and first lawn cutting is half price, call or text 704-472-3488 (704) 472-3488

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

COMMUNITY YARD SALE! Thur. 4/23, 9-6; Fri. 4/24, 9-6; and Sat. 4/25 9-4. Decorating business items from runners, table cloths, dishes, table wear, vases and more! Used for small weddings, showers, church events, mothers day gatherings. Books, Dave Ramsey, Christian, Health. Teeter hang ups inversion table. A large variety of items. Something for every one. Don’t miss out, come and see!! 104 Lake George Drive, Shelby, NC 28152

HUGE YARD SALE. Sat Apr 25th, 2026 from 08:00 AM02:00 PM. Prices reasonable. Nothing over $10.00 or make offers Follow signs off Earl Rd. 909 Langston Dr Shelby, NC 28152

RUTHERFORD COUNTY

KIWANIS CLUB OF RUTHERFORDTON 54th Annual Charity Auction Saturday, April 25, 9am. Rain or shine. BMW sports car (27,000 miles), Fang Power (like new) side by side, guns, silver coins, Case knives, primitive furniture, tools and much more. 230 North Cleghorn St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 FOR MEN & WOMEN! Friday & Saturday, April 24 & 25, 8AM-4PM. Parts for ‘95 Jeep; doors & canvas, doors for ‘05 Jeep, misc. household, toolsmore! 123 Starview Dr., Rutherfordton, NC 28139

FOR SALE

METAL ROOFING ! Metal

Roofing - 1 Piece or the Whole Rooftop. “We Also Can Deliver” Deliveries Every Monday & Thursdays. J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

COLLECTIBLE BARBIES. 60 Holiday and Avon Barbies. Would like to sell as group for $1,000. Please call 803-3672995

NEW LIFT CHAIR RECLINER. for sale. $500 negotiable. Text for pictures or more information. 704-734-7754.

J. JOHNSON TRAILER

SALES. New, Used, Bank Repo’s, Parts, Service, Sales, Finance or Rent to Own. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

OLD SCHOOL GAS JUGS All SEVEN jugs for $25 ,ONE 2-1/2 ,TWO 2 gal and FOUR 1gal jugs. $25.00 (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth. net

CARPORTS & GARAGES.

RV, Boat or Camper Covers. One of North Carolina’s Oldest Dealers! J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

TRAILERS, LAWNMOW-

Call: 1-877-243-7050. Miscellaneous WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home’s value! Call 24/7: 1-833928-1861. Have zip code of service location ready when you call!

TIRES & WHEELS. 4 Bridgestone Tires, 17,000 miles. 4 Ford Black Wheels, 5 hole. 18” tires. (704) 472-0637 FOR SALE PLANTS FOR SALE. Hostas, Coral Bells and many others - Perennials. Call 704473-0584 or meet at Southside Flea Market Fri.-Sat. 9:00am

Miscellaneous We Buy Vintage Guitar’s! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6577

Miscellaneous Donate your car today, running or not. Support Patriotic Hearts for our Veterans and their Families! Free fast pickup. May be tax deductable. Se habla Español. Call now: 877-317-3360 Miscellaneous BEHIND ON YOUR MORTGAGE PAYMENTS? Threatened with foreclosure? Denied a loan modification?

Let us help! Call the Homeowner Relief Line to speak with a mortgage specialist 844-492-0883 Miscellaneous Denied Social Security Disability? Appeal! If you’re 50+, filed SSD and denied, our attorneys can help! Win or Pay Nothing! Strong, recent work

WANT TO BUY

WANT GOOD RECORD PLAYER. I want one that plays 45’s & 33’s. Most are old but some are still in good condition. I want one with the High Spindle in center of the turn table. Must have the adapter. I have plenty of records but no player. Lots of companies made these. If you have one, please call. I will pay good price. 704-769-8025. If no answer, leave message. No Console.

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

MILITARY COLLECTOR SPECIALIZING IN War Items. WTB- US, German, Japanese & Military Guns, S&W & Colt. War Souvenirs, Flags, Blades, Bayonets, Helmets Legally Licensed (828) 980-3329

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

FARM & GARDEN

GARDEN TILLING SERVICES AVAILABLE. Tractor with 6’ rototiller. No job too big or small ! (704) 692-4079

FARM

and Seven-30 Round Clips. $2500. (980) 396-5036

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Also Fire Pit Wood, and Cooking Wood. Delivery Available. (803) 627-9408

WANT TO BUY

PAID FOR CASE POCKET KNIVES. JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-6006996 or (980) 295-5568 WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 6921006 WE BUY, SELL, TRADE TRAILERS. “Must Have Title”. (828) 245-5895

WANTED: USED GARDEN CARTS, leftover block, rock, brick. Call 704-294-6617

FOR SALE.

7-1/2 ft x 24 ft Trailer for sale. Best offer by May 15. (704) 813-2289 rlputnam66@att.net

& LIVESTOCK

MALTESE PUPPIES, 8 WEEKS OLD. Dual Registry, CKC & North American Pure Bred Registry. UTD, shots & worming, 2 males. $800. (704) 419-0852

BOSTON TERRIER PUPPIES FOR SALE. Three full blooded females. 9 weeks old. Vaccinated. Wormed. (828) 448-8783

PETS & LIVESTOCK

DOG KENNELS “ALL SIZES” IN STOCK! 7x7x4; 5x10x6; 10x10x4; 10x10x6; 10x10x6 Split Kennels for 2 Dogs, 10x20x6, ETC. Rain Tops & Dog Houses. “We Can Also Deliver and Install If Needed!” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. 5 male Chihuahua puppies ready to go. 9 wks old. No papers. Have had 1st shots and been dewormed. $250 each. Please TEXT if interested 704-860-2647 (704) 860-2647

CKC MORKIE BOYS. In home raised, doing well with basic obedience and potty training, temperament tested, socialized daily, immunized. To good homes only. $1700 (980) 421-2565 kais_companions@yahoo.com

MTN FEIST PUPPIES. 6 weeks old, full blooded. 1st round of shots & wormed. (828) 429-7452

SHIH TZU YORKIES SHORKIES TEACUP Mini. Male. Raised in our home, Vet check, 3 parvo & rabies shots, microchip, going outside, many extras, serious inquiries. Starting at $600. (864) 623-8803 thefuzzyfacequeen@gmail.com

CARS & TRUCKS

2013 CHEVY 2500, 2 DOOR. Long bed, black. $8000. Also 2008 Ford F-350, 4x4 extended cab, white. $8000. (704) 487-7981

2015 NISSAN 370Z Nismo Tech. Twin Turbo, 44K +miles, 6 speed, Automatic. Never Rain Driven, Beautiful mid Deep Red. Red & Black Interior. $27,900 Firm. (Shelby, NC). Leave phone number or text with your name. (704) 898-7645

CAMPERS

2013 JAY FEATHER ULTRA LITE Hybrid camper. Kitchen, bathroom, a/c, heat. Sleeps 4. Leave message. $6900. Will return call after 5:00 pm. (704) 300-2193 2002 RV PACE ARROW 35 ft. Queen bed, washer/dryer, large shower, 2 slide-outs, 2 TV’s. Great for home and living purpose. PRICE REDUCED $28,000! (704) 4738289

& ATVS CUSTOM MADE TRIKE.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SEARCH

By JIM MILLER Editor

Is Your Aging Parent Safe at Home?

Dear Savvy Senior, After watching the coverage of the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case, I’m worried about my own elderly mother who lives alone in another state. I want to make sure she’s safe without being intrusive. Are there simple, affordable ways to check in on her from afar?

--Concerned Son

Dear Concerned, You’re not alone. High-profile cases like this often heighten fears, especially for adult children whose parents live alone and may be vulnerable. The good news is there are several free or low-cost ways to stay connected and gain peace of mind without infringing on your mother’s independence. Here are some

nice options to consider.

Check-In App

If your mother uses a smartphone, a simple solution is Snug (snugsafe.com), a free app that checks in daily to confirm she’s OK. It’s used by tens of thousands of older adults who live alone and want their loved ones alerted quickly if something goes wrong.

Here’s how it works: After downloading the app, your mother selects a daily check-in time. Snug sends several reminders leading up to that time, prompting her to confirm she’s OK by tapping a large green button on her screen. If she doesn’t check in within 10 minutes after her scheduled time, the app automatically noti-

fies her emergency contacts and shares her last known location so help can be sent promptly.

For added peace of mind, Snug also offers a Dispatch Plan ($20 per month or $200 per year) that includes multiple daily check-ins. If she misses one, Snug will call her directly to see if she’s OK. If there’s still no response, they can request an in-person wellness check by local authorities, who will visit her home to make sure she’s safe. The app works with both iPhone and Android devices.

Check-In Calls

If your mother doesn’t use a smartphone, a daily check-in call program can provide similar reassurance. Many police or sheriff’s depart-

ments nationwide offer telephone reassurance programs, often free of charge.

Typically, an automated system calls at a set time each day. If she answers, all is well. If she doesn’t pick up after repeated attempts, or the call goes to voicemail, her emergency contact is notified. If that contact can’t be reached, backup contacts are called. As a last resort, local police or emergency services may be dispatched to her home.

To see if this service is available in your mother’s community, call her local police department’s nonemergency number or the Area Agency on Aging at 800-677-1116. If no local program exists,

private companies like CareCall or ConfirmOK offer similar services for a monthly fee.

Technology Aids

You might also consider simple home technology to enhance her safety. Monitored medical alert systems are among the most common – wearable “help buttons,” some with fall detection, that allow her to call for help 24/7 while immediately notifying you. These typically cost around $1 per day.

While no solution can eliminate every risk, these tools can provide meaningful peace of mind, for both you and your mother, while preserving her independence.

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

Other options include motion or contact sensors placed around the home to track daily routines and alert you to unusual activity, or a small security camera with night vision, motion detection and two-way audio that allows you to check in visually and even speak directly with her. Basic sensors and cameras can cost under $35, though they require Wi-Fi and do raise privacy considerations, so it’s important to discuss them with your mother beforehand.