KM Herald 8_5_26

138 • Issue 31 Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Notice of discharge of untreated wastewater

The City of Kings Mountain experienced a discharge of approximately 1,500 gallons of untreated wastewater from its wastewater collection system at the intersection of East King Street and Cleveland Avenue on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m. The discharge lasted for approximately one hour before the issue was resolved. The untreated wastewater entered McGill Creek.

City crews responded immediately and utilized a Jet Vac to remove the wastewater and restore system levels to normal operating conditions, preventing any further discharge. This public notice is being issued in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 143, Article 21. For additional information, please contact Kyle Cash (Superintendent of Water and Sewer) at (704) 730-7045.

Liberty Mountain returns on Friday, September 18

In 1780 our Patriot forefathers answered the call to come together to secure the birth and freedom of our nation. Today, you have the opportunity (many would say the privilege) to answer the call to support and secure that legacy!

Kings Mountain Little Theatre, Liberty Mountain, founding sponsor Gilbert and Jancy Patrick are actively seeking volunteers, advocates, and sponsors, for this fall’s production. General Manager Jim Champion and other LM representatives will be contacting area businesses and individuals during the upcoming weeks about these opportunities.

There will be a training day and Welcome the Cast event on Saturday, August 29 at 5 PM in the Liberty Mountain Garden. Members of KMLT’s Guest Services Team will join the cast for a Red Bridges Barbeque buffet meal with training to follow for new and returning volunteers. Please contact Jim Champion or Caswell Martin info@kmlt.org to RSVP for the meal.

Financial support is always welcome and will be put to good use, but even more important is tangible, visible support by displaying posters and other promotional materials and by spreading the word about Liberty Mountain. If you are interested in sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, contact Jim Champion 704-692-2897.

2026 sponsorship levels include: $2,500 Corporate Sponsor, $1,000 General Sponsor, $500 Captain Sponsor, and $250 Patriot Sponsor. All sponsorship

CC Sheriff’s Office Interdiction Team assists CMPD with investigation, leading to arrest

On August 1, 2026, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Community Interdiction Team assisted Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) crime, gun and suppression unit with a narcotics investigation involving Walter AJavier Villeda-Ayala. The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Community Interdiction Team observed Villeda-Ayala traveling North on Interstate 85 in Cleveland County. The Community Interdiction Team conducted a traffic stop for numerous driving violations. Following a positive indication from a Cleveland County Sheriff's Office canine, a probable cause

da-Ayala was arrested and charged with two counts of Trafficking Cocaine. Villeda-Ayala was given a 500,000 secured bond and is currently being held on an immigration detainer.

The 3 kilograms of suspects cocaine seized during the traffic stop has a street value of approximately 300,000.00 dollars.

Sheriff Alan Norman extends his appreciation to every investigator and agency involved throughout this operation, which proves interagency collaboration is a must in protecting our communities from these drug traffickers. Sheriff Norman states that the Cleveland County

levels include special amenities. Support is especially important as we take Liberty Mountain to the Joy stage to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary!

The September 18 through October 11 season includes the opportunity to celebrate and commemorate the anniversary of the Battle with a special evening performance on Wednesday, October 7th. It also allows us to engage our local students and add to their education regarding this important part of our community’s history. We are offering 12 school day performances for area students. Call the Joy at 704730-9408 for details and to reserve tickets for your school or group.

Tickets to the Liberty Mountain 2026: America 250 Opening Night Gala on Friday September 18 are $90 each. Tickets are limited to 150 for this event so please get your tickets early at www.libertymountaindrama.com. The festivities include Revolutionary War era entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and beverages in the Liberty Mountain Garden beginning at 5:30 PM. The performance begins at 7:30 PM in the Joy Theatre with a “meet and greet” and desserts in the Garden afterward.

Thombs Walking Track Reopening Celebration August 15

Group and VIP ticket packages are available now at info@kmlt.org and online ticket sales are open at www.libertymountaindrama.com or by calling 704-730-9408.

Our revolutionary history is unique to Kings Mountain, Cleveland County, and the Carolinas. See LIBERTY, Page 4A

There will be a Reopening Celebration of Thombs Walking Park on Saturday, August 15 at 10 a.m.

A ribbon cutting will be held at 10:30 a.m.

There will be lots of fun for the whole family. Come out and enjoy the fun.

The park is located at 116 N. Watterson St., Kings Mountain

Patterson Grove Upward Soccer registration

Patterson Grove Baptist Church is currently holding registration for Upward Soccer.

How Do I Sign Up Registration is online at: http://registration.upward.org/ UPW90546

The early registration cost per child for soccer is $50; after August 10, 2026, the cost is $60. Sibling discounts and scholarships are available. Deadline for registration is August 18, 2026.

Evaluations and Schedule

Each player will need to attend one evaluation at Patter-

Congressman Tim Moore votes to strengthen America's Military through FY27 National Defense Authorization Act

On July 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that ensures America's military readiness and sets defense policy for the coming year.

The FY27 NDAA authorizes funds to revitalize our defense industrial base, accelerate next generation technologies, and build on quality-of-life improvements for our service members and their families.

Included in the bill is Congressman Tim Moore's (NC-14) amendment establishing the Army Quantum Readiness and Advanced Computing Initiative to better prepare the Army for the

technology race.

"Our service members face threats unlike any in a generation. We must ensure America remains the strongest and most capable fighting force in the world," said Congressman Moore. "The National Defense Authorization Act strengthens American deterrence by restoring and modernizing depleted stockpile and providing our service members with a well-deserved pay raise." Specifically, this legislation will:

• Support a 5 to 7 percent pay raise for all service members while improving housing, education, and childcare for military families.

• Strengthen military readiness by rebuilding critical weapons stockpiles and expanding the nation's defense industrial base.

• Accelerate the devel-

opment and deployment of next generation technologies, including quantum computing, hypersonics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence.

• Strengthen America's deterrence against adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea by investing in the forces and capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. military.

• Improve efficiency at the Department of War by streamlining operations, reducing wasteful spending, and strengthening financial accountability.

Congressman Tim Moore represents the 14th Congressional District of North Carolina, including Cleveland, Gaston, Burke, and Rutherford Counties, as well as parts of Mecklenburg and Polk Counties. Visit timmoore.house.gov for more.

Meet BOONE 2 Years Old, Male, 70 lbs.

Boone is the handsome result of a full American Bully and a Lab mix. He is great with kids and other large dogs, so whether you’re looking for a fourlegged friend or a buddy for the whole crew, he’ll fit right in. He absolutely loves playing in the water, so water and a couch are must-haves to keep him happy.

Apply here: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/clip/dog

To learn more about our CARE dogs, please visit our website and click adoptable dogs at www.cliffordsarmyrescue.com

Clifford’s Army Rescue carefully matches each dog with the right home. Must be 21+ to apply. A meet-and-greet with current pets may be required.

Clifford’s Army Rescue evaluates each application individually to ensure the best possible fit for both dog and adopter.

Clifford’s Army Rescue is an all Volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit dog rescue. JOIN THE ARMY: VOLUNTEER ★ DONATE ★ RESCUE

Genealogy Workshop to be held at KM Historical Museum August 8

The Kings Mountain Historical Museum invites the community to explore their family history during an informative genealogy workshop, "Finding Family Records: Birth, Marriage, and Death Records," on Saturday, August 8, at 10:30 a.m.to 12:30 p.m.

The FREE workshop will be held at the Kings Mountain Historical Museum, located at 100 East Mountain Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086, and is designed for anyone interested in discovering more about their ancestors through vital records.

Birth, marriage, and death records are among the most valuable resources available to family historians. During this workshop, participants will learn where to locate these essential records, how to interpret the information they contain, and how to use them to build a more complete and accu-

rate family tree. Whether you're just beginning your genealogy journey or looking to strengthen your research skills, this session will provide practical guidance and helpful resources.

The workshop offers an opportunity to connect with others who share an interest in local and family history while gaining confidence in researching historical records.

Admission is free, and all experience levels are welcome.

Event Details

• Workshop: Finding Family Records: Birth, Marriage, and Death Records

Gaston, Cleveland and Lincoln County residents set to

and

Gaston, Cleveland and Lincoln County residents are invited to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, Oct. 10. Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

The Alzheimer’s Association - Western North Carolina Chapter will be hosting Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Gaston/ Cleveland/Lincoln at Rotary Centennial Pavilion located at 107 North South Street in Gastonia. Check-in opens at 9 a.m.; Opening Ceremony at 10 a.m. and the Walk immediately following.

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During this moving ceremony, walkers hold pinwheel flowers of various colors representing their personal connection to the disease.

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 13 million family members and friends provide care to people living

with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In North Carolina alone, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 338,000 caregivers.

Gaston County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 11.1% in its age 65 and older population.

Cleveland County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 11.1% in its age 65 and older population.

Lincoln County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 9.9% in its age 65 and older population.

The Alzheimer’s Association hosts 17 walks across North Carolina including:

• Date: Saturday, August 8

• Time: 10:30 a.m.

• Location: Kings Mountain Historical Museum, 100 East Mountain Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

• Cost: Free For more information, please contact the Kings Mountain Historical Museum or visit the museum's website or social media pages.

About the Kings Mountain Historical Museum

The Kings Mountain Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Kings Mountain and the surrounding region through exhibits, educational programs, and community events. The museum provides opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore the area's heritage and connect with the stories that have shaped the community.

Finding Family Records: Birth, Marriage, and Death Records 2026 Alzheimer’s Association Walk to end Alzehimer’s in Gastonia

Alamance County, Asheville, Charlotte, Gaston/Cleveland/ Lincoln Counties, Fayetteville, Guilford County, Henderson County, Iredell Co. & Lake Norman, Jacksonville, Moore County, Mount Airy, New Bern, Rowan-Cabarrus Counties, Triangle (Raleigh and Durham), Unifour, Wilmington and Winston-Salem.

To register as a participant, team captain, or to learn about becoming a sponsor or volunteer of Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Gaston/Cleveland/Lincoln, visit act.alz. org/GastonClevelandLincoln or call 800-272-3900.

by Joseph Brymer

Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center named Charlotte’s No. 1 Hospital, leads NC in Cardiology and Orthopedics

Three Atrium Health hospitals among top five in Charlotte metro area; Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation top-ranked in rehab

Atrium Health hospitals earned widespread recognition in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Hospitals rankings, highlighting the organization’s commitment to delivering

care and exceptional clinical outcomes across North Carolina and Georgia.

Atrium Health has three of the top five hospitals in the Charlotte metropolitan area, with Carolinas Medical Center once again named the top hospital, followed by Atrium Health Cabarrus at No. 2 and Atrium Health Pineville at No. 5. In the Greensboro/

Winston-Salem metro area, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist earned the No. 2 spot. Additionally, five Atrium Health hospitals ranked among the Top 20 in North Carolina and Georgia:

• No. 2 in North Carolina – Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte

• Tied at No. 6 in North

Carolina – Atrium Health Cabarrus in Concord

• Tied at No. 13 in North Carolina – Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist in Winston-Salem

• Tied at No. 17 in North Carolina – Atrium Health Pineville in Charlotte

• Tied at No. 17 in Georgia – Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center in Macon

“Our teammates’ dedication to delivering exceptional care and improving outcomes for all is what makes recognitions like these possible,” said Steve Smoot, president of the North Carolina and Georgia Division of Advocate Health, of which Atrium Health is a part. “We are incredibly proud to see our hospitals and specialty programs recognized among the best in the nation, and we remain focused on meeting the needs of our patients and communities who count on us.”

Atrium Health hospitals also earned significant recognition for specialty care, receiving a combined 70 high performing ratings for procedures and conditions, as well three Top 50 national rankings for Rehabilitation (No. 18), Cardiology, Heart & Vascular (No. 26) and Orthopedics (No. 47).

New this year, U.S. News introduced local specialty rankings for cardiology, orthopedics, rehabilitation and cancer care, helping patients identify leading specialty programs close to home. Atrium Health hospitals earned significant statewide rec-

ognition: Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center

• No. 1 in Cardiology

• No. 3 in Cancer

• No. 1 in Orthopedics

• Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation

• No. 1 in Rehabilitation

• Atrium Health Pineville

• No. 7 in Rehabilitation

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist

• No. 11 in Rehabilitation

“The recognition of Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center as the No. 1 cardiovascular program in North Carolina, and among the nation’s best, reflects the exceptional talent and dedication of our care teams,” said Dr. Troy Leo, vice president of the Heart and Vascular Service Line for Advocate Health’s North Carolina and Georgia Division. “At Atrium Health Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute, we remain focused on advancing cardiovascular innovation, expanding access to worldclass care and helping patients across the Southeast and beyond achieve the best possible outcomes.”

Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center also earned the top spot in the state for orthopedics.

“This honor reinforces our commitment to advancing care and truly is a testament to the incredible skill of our care teams,” said Dr. Claude Moorman, president of Atrium Health’s Musculoskeletal Institute.

“Every day, they deliver innovative, high-quality care that helps patients regain mobility, restore function and get back to what they love.”

In addition to ranking No. 1 in the state for rehabilitation, Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation tied for No. 18 nationally.

“The rankings are a meaningful acknowledgment of the expertise, innovation and compassionate care that defines Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation,” said Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation hospital president Robert Larrison Jr. “This would not be possible without our dedicated physicians, nurses, therapists, pharmacists and support professionals, who remain focused on helping patients regain independence and achieve their highest level of recovery.”

Atrium Health hospitals contributed substantially to Advocate Health’s combined 204 high-performing ratings for procedures and conditions and 19 high-performing specialty designations, signifying top-decile performance nationally. For the 2026-2027 rankings, U.S. News evaluated more than 4,400 hospitals nationwide across adult specialties, procedures and conditions. Hospitals recognized as “high performing” demonstrated clinical outcomes significantly better than the national average.

For more information about the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings, visit www. usnews.com/best-hospitals.

Southern Arts Society winners for “Visions of America” Art Competition and Exhibit

the 250th

of the United States. Over 50 works were entered to be judged for prizes. Awards were presented at a public reception on Saturday afternoon, June 27. Participating artists in the show are: Mary E. Aikens, Linda Alexander, Melanie Baker, Mary L. Brown, Fran Corda, Ellen Devenny, Longie Escobal, Dianne Garner, Darlene Godfrey, Dennis Huntley, Kim Joyce, Kim McAdams, Bertie McClain, Fred Mead, Alex Pietersen, Pat Pietersen, Jacqueline Ramey, Judy Solar, Andrew Washburn, Phiddy Webb, EK “Karen” Werran, and Erin Whitener.

Much of the art is representative of the traditional symbols of our country – Old Glory, bald eagles, church, and the broad landscape from the mountains to the sea. All shown in a variety of media including collage, colored pencil, glass, fiber, mixed media, painting, and photography. Judging this special competition was Susan Carlisle Bell, former professor of art at Gardner Webb University, selected first, second, third place awards and three merit awards. Ms. Bell offered comments on each of her choices for awards. “Visions of America as the theme of the exhibit allows the artists to create in a wide variety of mediums, subjects, styles, and scale which I admire, said Ms. Bell” First Place went to Phiddy Webb of Tega Cay, SC, for her collage “Old Glory”. Ms. Bell made the following comments on both entries submitted by Ms. Webb: “The American flag and bald eagle are featured in both subtle and bold ways. I was particularly drawn to the two collages by Phiddy Webb. Found papers are torn or cut or painted to create the

images. In “Freedom”, the collage of the eagle, the textures of eye and beak and especially feathers are rendered so well. I appreciate the layering, the torn shapes and changes of value describing the “white” feathers.

For “Old Glory”, the artist has taken the geometric design of the flag and made it dynamic in its movement. The painterly treatment of values and color change suggests a three-dimensional surface and movement of light and wind. The stars are not restricted in rigid placement but freely move suggesting the freedom this American flag symbolizes. The transformation of the flag into a painterly composition is the reason this collage earns First-Place recognition.

Second Place went to EK (Karen) Werran of Dallas, NC, for her fiber artwork “America's Tapestry”. “Interpreting the U.S. map in colored fibers transforms the design into a composition with a strong abstract composition. Squint your eyes to appreciate shapes, lines, and overall design. Take note of the key included. Cleverly the artist has described the typography of mountains, desert, water, trees. The dominant products of states (dairy, beef, tobacco and cotton, wheat, apples, etc.) are artistically indicated by changes in color combos and line direction,” said Ms. Bell.

Third Place went to Fred Mead of Forest City, NC for his fused glass piece “American Dream”. “Fred Meads “The American Dream” demonstrates great craftsmanship in glass. Lady Liberty reminds us that America’s greatness lies in the freedom, equality and humanity of a democracy. The piece has an integrity of design that reads well from a distance. On closer inspection the light rays of her crown are integrated with the letters of the mes-

sage. The inclusion of 1776 - 2026 reminds us that the dream of the Founding Fathers is made possible by the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. There were three Merit Awards given, with one being a tie. The first Merit Award was given to Erin Whitener of Belmont, NC for her graphite drawing “Big Boy”. Ms. Bell commented “The graphite drawing of the locomotive is a ‘tour de force’ of exceptional mastery of this medium. The power of the symmetrical train with its precise and detailed description of parts and whole is energized by the contracting texture of the asymmetrical puffs of steam and landscapes on left and right. Its position in the immediate foreground demands the viewer's attention and atmospheric perspective gives us the distant landscape. The artist has wisely used the negative space to focus our attention on the intricacy of the engine. I appreciate the

appropriateness of the train and tracks to the history of SASi and its well-designed gallery.”

The next Merit Award was given to Jacqueline Ramey Laine of Gastonia, NC, for acrylic painting “Dollar Bill”. Ms. Bell said “The ubiquitous dollar bill that is so commonplace is now a work of art. It honors the original design but its enormous scale, use of color and brush work invites the viewer to see it afresh. The artist goes beyond Photo Realism to give us a painting of visual merit.”

The final Merit Award, a tie, was between Alex Pietersen and Pat Pietersen – husband and wife photographers from Clover, SC, who spend shared time traveling and shooting pictures of the sites they see and seek out. The awards were for Pat’s color mountain landscape “Oh Beautiful…” and for Alex’s black and white barn-scape, “The Ameri-

LIBERTY

From Page 1A

Please help celebrate and preserve it for future generations by supporting the telling of OUR history. The 2026 Liberty Mountain committee founders are: Shirley Brutko, Jim Champion,

can Experience”. Ms. Bell offered her view on both Pietersen’s photos: “The full color photograph of the mountain landscape and the black and white barn framed by the trees demonstrate the strengths of each type of photography. Both works evoke the memories and beloved landscapes of this area of North Carolina.

In Pat’s photo, the aerial perspective and the bluish atmospheric perspective illustrate the apt naming of our Blue Ridge Mountains. Alex’s barn photograph is a fine example of the principle of space. The foreground objects are lower, more detailed and overlap the middle space.

The rusted farm machinery of man-made geometry doesn’t dominate but showcases the barn. The objects in the background are smaller, lighter in value and have higher placement.

As the viewer scans the gallery, these two works hold their own.”

“Visions of America”

will be on view through August 21, 2026, in the galleries at Southern Arts Society. You can see more images on Southern Arts Society’s website and Facebook page. Artwork in the exhibit is available for sale.

Southern Arts Society (SASi) Gift Shop & Gallery is located at 301 N. Piedmont Ave. at the intersection of Piedmont and Battleground Avenues in the historic Southern Railway Depot. SASi offers a gift shop, ongoing art exhibitions and competitions, programs and classes in a variety of media for artists of all levels.

Gift Shop & Gallery Hours: Wed through Sat, 10 am to 3 pm, and by Appointment. Admission is Free. For more information, please visit https:// southernartssociety.org/, or call 704.739.5585. Email southernartssociety@ gmail.com.

Rick Dancy, Jerry Ledford, Gilbert and Jancy Patrick – Treasurer, Mary Grace Keller; committee members: Seth Chappell, Bobby Childers, John Harris, Shearra Miller, Warren Moss, Angela Padgett, Margot Plonk, Jada Rees, MaryWade Smith, Wes Westmoreland, and Lloyd Williams, Jr.; Playwright, Robert (Bob) Inman – Artistic Director, Jeremy Trent Homesley – Music Director and Ashley DeMar.

Liberty Mountain is produced by Kings Mountain Little Theatre, Inc. Gilbert and Jancy Patrick are the founding sponsors

The Snack Shop in Boiling Springs carrying on fine food tradition

By Alan Hodge

Food service businesses are often like vegetables planted in rich but thin soil, they spring up quickly but wither just as fast. That’s not the case with the Snack Shop Family Restaurant and its predecessor Cleveland Sandwich Co., both of which have called Boiling Springs home for 100 years.

This epicurean epic got started way back in 1926 when Belton Beason started the sandwich manufacturing business at 103 S. Main St. in Boiling Springs. His employees put together sandwiches on an industrial scale. A period photo shows smartly dressed employees in skirts The tasty sandwich vari- Asheville and into South Carolina.”

Not long after starting the sandwich firm, Beason moved the sandwich making operation into what is now the Turner Trucking office building on College St. The Main St. location became the Snack Shop.

Over the years, the Sandwich Co. and the Snack Shop remained in the Beason family. After Belton passed away in 1952, it went to his son James who ran it until he died in 1981. After that, the sandwich operation as well as the Snack Shop soldiered on for a spell, but eventually faded into the Boiling Springs mist.

However, in 1997, the beloved Snack Shop experienced a renaissance. That’s when Ilias Tsambounieris (known to friends and customers as “Louie”) bought the Snack Shop and set it on a course for revival.

Louie, 68, a native of Karpathos, Greece, came to America when he was nine years old. He grew up in the diner business in New York. By and by, he married his wife Maria who was the daughter of Shelby Café owner George Diakolios. They have two daughters, Anna and Sofia Tsambounieris Sakellis.

Louie described how he came to own the Snack Shop.

“It was Fate,” he says. “In 1997 I came to Shelby to visit my in-laws. I fell in love with Cleveland County. I was driving around in Boiling Springs and saw that the Snack Shop building was empty. I thought it would be a nice place to open a New York-style deli, so I called the number on the door and talked to G.H. Walton. We made a deal and I opened on August 30, 1997, and have been here ever

The combination of a great location in the heart of Boiling Springs, having Gardner-Webb University right across the road, and Louie’s fantastic cooking skills meant business took off. Louie mused about his customer base.

“Some of my original customers have passed away,” he said. “But the growth of Boiling Springs and the increase in tourism has brought new ones. I also get lots of busi-

ness from the Gardner-Webb sports teams.” Last week two GWU students, Reed Walker and Eli Bowman, were having lunch at the Snack Shop.

“I love coming here,” Walker said. “One of my favorites is the cheeseburger club.” Bowman praised the Snack Shop atmosphere.

“It’s just like a homestyle place,” he said. Interior décor at the Snack Shop has a cool vintage diner vibe. The walls are festooned with vinyl LP covers, automobilia, advertising, and other types of signage, and pop art posters. The booths are covered in a retro-look red and white vinyl, and the counter has swiveling stools and stainless-steel trim. The ever-busy grill is open for everyone to see Louie and his assistant cooks preparing food at a furious pace.

Speaking of food, the Snack Shop has an eclectic, expansive and exciting menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Offerings include fare such as omelets of every type, See SNACK SHOP, Page 7A

Hope Has A Name

Every generation searches for hope. Some place their hope in a career, financial security, good health, or even the next election. Yet life has a way of reminding us that every earthly foundation can shift without warning.

The Bible offers something far better.

Biblical hope is not wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is the confident assurance that God will do exactly what He has promised because He is perfectly faithful. Chris-

tian hope rests, not in circumstances, but in a Person–Jesus Christ. Peter writes, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

Notice that Peter doesn’t describe hope as an idea. It is a living hope because our Savior is alive.

Years ago, the hymn writer Edward Mote

penned these familiar words: “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”

Those words have comforted believers through wars, economic hardship, illness, and personal tragedy because they remind us where true security is found.

The modern song “Living Hope” celebrates the empty tomb with these words: “Jesus Christ, my living hope.” Because Christ conquered death, hope is no longer merely something we wish for–it is Someone we know.

The late preacher C.H. Spurgeon once said, “Hope itself is like a star–not to

be seen in the sunshine of prosperity, but only to be discovered in the night of adversity.”

Perhaps today feels more like midnight than morning. If so, remember this, my friends: Hope is not the absence of hardship; hope is the presence of Christ.

Whatever this week holds, anchor your heart in the One who never changes. Jesus Christ remains our living hope yesterday, today, and forever.

Blessings, Jonathan

• Language Based Groups

• Prison Based Groups

Advent Lutheran Church, NALC Member

230 Oak Grove Rd.

704-750-0171

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

Ardent Life Church

420 Branch Street

704-739-7700

Arise Church

830 E. King St.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 1017 Bethlehem Road

704-739-7487

Boyce

Memorial ARP Church

Edgemont Drive

704-739-4917

Calvary Way Holiness Church 1017 Second Street Pastor Clifton Morgan

Carson Memorial Baptist Church

262 Sparrow Springs Road 704-739-2247

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connections Church

306 N. Piedmont Ave. 704-750-4972

Cornerstone Church Of God 202 Margrace Road

Cornerstone Independent Baptist 107 Range Road 704-737-0477

Crowders Mountain Baptist 125 Mayberry Lane 704-739-0310

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

Dixon Presbyterian Church 602 Dixon School Road dixonpresbyterian.com

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

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

Eastside Baptist Church 308 York Road 704-739-8055

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

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

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

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

Faith Baptist Church 1009 Linwood Road

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

Family Worship Center 1818 Shelby Road 704-739-7206

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OUR MISSION: Moms in Prayer International impacts children and schools worldwide for Christ by gathering mothers to pray.

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

Grace Fellowship 144 West Mountain Street 704-481-8888

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

Harvest Baptist Church 144 Ware Road 704-734-0714

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

Life of Worship Ministries

405 S. Cherokee St. 704-777-2927

King’s City Church 1128 York Road 704-739-8496

Lighthouse Ministries 1908 Shelby Rd. Kings Mountain

Long Creek Presbyterian Church 701 Long Creek Road 704-629-4406

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

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

American Revolutionary War Living History Center TM and US Presidential Service Center® unveil new Susannah Twitty play and five Schafer gallery additions

The American Revolutionary War Living History Center , working in conjunction with the United States Presidential Service Center®, today announced the release of a new historical stage play written by Martin CJ Mongiello and centered upon the remarkable Carolina frontier courage of Susannah “Susan” Twitty. The original historical drama brings Native sovereignty, Carolina leadership, women’s courage, military sacrifice, and Spanish-American service together on one stage

The organizations also announced five new additions to the Schafer Gallery of Southern Revolutionary War Heroes and Sheroes. Each newly honored historical figure will appear as a speaking character during the play, transforming the stage into a living gallery and the gallery into a stage.

Susannah Twitty is remembered for her actions during the September 1780 Loyalist attack upon Graham’s Fort in what is now Grover, Cleveland County, North Carolina. Traditional accounts summarized by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources recount that the young Twitty pushed her brother out of the path of an attacker’s shot, encouraged the fort’s defenders to return fire, and ran outside to recover the fallen attacker’s firearm and ammunition with combat fire all around her. She is well known as a sharpshooter and as a bareback rider across the region.

“Southern history was never one voice marching beneath one flag,” said Martin CJ Mongiello, author of the new play. “It was shaped by Native nations governing ancient homelands, women defending their families, Patriots and Loyalists confronting one another, immigrants choosing the cause of independence, and communities carrying the cost of conflict long after the smoke cleared. This play allows those histories to meet, not as silent names on a wall, but as human beings with voices. You either belong to one party or the other, and the Royal Governor William Tryon beheading people in Western NC and displaying their skulls on sticks in front of Tryon Palace is common.”

Mongiello’s new work uses Susannah Twitty’s story as the dramatic doorway into a wider exploration of the American South. Beginning with the Indigenous world encountered by Hernando de Soto in 1540 and moving through the po-

litical, military, and cultural upheavals of the American Revolution, the play presents a sweeping account of the people and communities that shaped the Carolinas and the emerging United States.

Five New Schafer Gallery Additions ColonelCommandant William Graham Grover’s Colonel William Graham was a leading militia commander in western North Carolina and served as colonel of the Tryon County Regiment. He also represented Tryon County in the Fifth Provincial Congress of North Carolina, the revolutionary convention that drafted the state’s first constitution and Declaration of Rights. Graham’s fortified log frontier home later became the site of the 1780 Loyalist attack remembered as the Battle of Graham’s Fort.

In the play, Graham represents both the military defense of the Carolina Backcountry and the political struggle to transform North Carolina from a British colony into an independent state. He will speak during the play about his wife giving birth the night before the Battle of King’s Mountain and almost dying, who is Susan Twitty Graham, the mother of Susannah Twitty Graham Miller. The only battle ever fought in the American Revolutionary War within Cleveland County today will be noted for his victory, the use of the secret black powder he purchases from Mary Patton, and his stepdaughter's (Susannah) excellent shooting and participation in the battle.

Brigadier General James Williams of South Carolina James Williams was a South Carolina militia commander whose promotion to brigadier general had been bestowed by the South Carolina Provincial Congress. He was mortally wounded while leading Patriot forces at the Battle of King’s Mountain. The National Park Service identifies Williams as the highest-ranked Patriot officer killed during the battle.

Williams will speak in the play as a representative of South Carolina’s sacrifice, the brutal personal cost of the Southern Campaign, and the

military cooperation among the Carolinas and Georgia that helped secure victory at King’s Mountain. In 2005, the South Carolina General Assembly legally ended 225 years of rampant gossip by confirming that the research was true and that he was a General during the battle. His archenemy was Major Patrick Ferguson. Both were shot dead in the battle. He will also speak from heaven, looking down upon the murder of his two sons (Daniel and Joseph) after the battle of King’s Mountain at the Hayes Station Massacre by William “Bloody Bill” Cunningham. Bloody Bill recognized them and was infuriated, seeking to wreak further harm on the Williams family and wife.

Sally New River of the Catawba Nation

Sally New River, granddaughter of the celebrated Catawba leader King Hagler, was a Catawba landowner who leased land to incoming Scotch-Irish settlers. The Catawba Nation describes its traditional communities as matriarchal societies in which women stood at the center of community life and authority. The Nation also fought beside the Patriot cause during the American Revolution.

The play honors Sally New River as a Native American shero, landholder, community leader, savior of her people, and symbol of the strength, diplomacy, resilience, and continuing presence of Catawba women. Her father was a white, trusted negotiator and interpreter named Matthew Toole, married to King Hagler’s daughter. She speaks in Catawba and in English during the play about saving her nation with Captain Redhead.

The Lady of Cofitachequi (Ko-Fee-Tuh-Chay-Kee)

The woman known to history as the Lady of Cofitachequi

Patrick Senior Center August events

ruled a massive alliance of Indigenous Mississippian towns in what is now South Carolina. On May 1, 1540, she met the Hernando de Soto expedition and attempted to prevent open conflict through diplomacy. Reports stated it was like meeting Cleopatra, coming across the river with a tremendous contingent of people worshiping her; she stepped off the barge and put her own necklace around DeSoto’s neck, which was the sign of linking both nations in peace. De Soto’s soldiers subsequently occupied part of Cofitachequi, seized pearls from its temple, and forced the Lady to accompany them as a hostage tied to a stake on a carriage riding all the way up to Asheville, so that all people could see what they did to their illegitimate captives. She later outwitted her guards and escaped.

Her appearance broadens the play beyond the Revolutionary War itself, reminding audiences that Southern history did not begin with European settlement. It began with sovereign Native nations, established communities, complex governments, trade networks, and women who exercised political power centuries before the founding of the United States. In fact, the majority of nations are controlled and run by women during this. And we have our love of barbecue to thank the Spanish for bringing 130 pigs with them from Iberia, which had never been seen in America before.

Major Jorge Antonio Ferragut Mesquida

Major Jorge Antonio Ferragut Mesquida, also historically recorded as Jordi Ferragut Mesquida and later known by his anglicized name George Farragut, was born on the island of Menorca. He joined the American Patriot cause as a Spanish hero, served in the South Carolina Navy, fought at Charleston, endured British captivity, and returned to military service at Cowpens and Wilmington. He later attained the rank of major in North Carolina’s cavalry forces by order of the Governor. Today, he represents the aspirations of Hispanics who live here and work amongst us, as well as the LATAM community and Spanish-speaking people. Spanish-speaking students who attend schools here and live with us in America now have a new reason to be proud.

Farragut later became the father of Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, one of the

most consequential naval officers in United States history. In the play, Major Farragut represents the significant Spanish, LATAM, and Hispanic contribution to American independence and the international character of the struggle for liberty. General Bernardo de Galvez affirms this during the course of the play, out loud in Spanish and English, in bringing free-black regiments and native American Regiments to sweep the British fleet from the Gulf as well as destroy them in Michigan and Illinois. He takes wins in St. Louis and takes the Mississippi River away from King George the 3rd. The ensuing battles across Louisiana and present-day Mississippi, as well as Alabama and Florida, with the destruction of English armies by Mexican, Cuban, Haitian, Puerto Rican, Dominican Republic, and other Spanish-speaking contributors to the American Revolution that fought and died here. The General will address the fact that he is not having a WOKE MOMENT 250 years later as a human freak of radical, libertarian cultural warfare. He is only showing the real truth of history, and what really happened.

A More Complete Southern Story

Each of these five historical figures will speak and participate in the play at some point. Their dramatic appearances will place Susannah Twitty’s courage within a much larger historical landscape, one populated by Native rulers, Catawba women, Scotch-Irish settlers, elected delegates, militia officers, English, African, Spanish-born Patriots, French, Spanish, Dutch, Germans, Prussians, Poles, Hungarians, Welsh, Acadians, frontier families, British forces, and Americans whose experiences have too often remained outside the familiar national narrative. This is just a snapshot of everyone. Theater will be used to bring their distinct voices into conversation across time.

“We are not replacing one version of history with another,” Mongiello said. “We are opening the doors and allowing more of the people who were actually here to enter the room. The South was never a single color, nationality, ancestry, tribe, gender, or point of view. Its history is difficult, courageous, diverse, and magnificent, and it deserves to be presented in full.”

The play and corresponding

additions to the Schafer Gallery are intended to encourage historical research, public discussion, educational programming, artistic interpretation, and renewed recognition of the many communities that helped shape the American South. Contributing Sponsors The American Revolutionary War Living History Center™ and the United States Presidential Service Center® gratefully recognize the following contributing sponsors:

• The Scotch-Irish Victory Center™

• The Héroes en Combate por la Libertad Celebration Center™

• The British Legion™

• The Ishmael Titus Museum™

• The Asians of Independence 1776 Gallery™

• The Schafer Gallery™

• The American Sheroes Foundation of 1776™

• The United States Presidential Culinary Museum®

Additional information concerning the official title of the play, casting, performance dates, public presentations, gallery unveilings, educational programming, and venue arrangements will be announced separately.

About the American Revolutionary War Living History Center™ The center is dedicated to preserving, researching, interpreting, and presenting the people, places, battles, cultures, and daily life of the American Revolution, with particular emphasis upon the Southern Campaign and Carolina Backcountry. Through living-history programming, historical interpretation, immersive educational experiences, original artwork, theater, publications, and public engagement, the Center has kept the stories of America’s founding generations alive since its inception in 1976. www.arwlhc.com

About the United States Presidential Service Center®

The United States Presidential Service Center® is a national educational, cultural, and historical organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting stories of service, leadership, innovation, diplomacy, citizenship, and sacrifice associated with the American Presidency and those who have served the nation. Its museums, publications, awards, educational initiatives, events, and public programs seek to inspire future generations through the lessons of the American experience. www.uspsc.org

Patrick Senior Center programs are open to people age 55 and up unless otherwise noted.

August 2026

Special Events: Advance Care Planning by Michelle Petty with Carolina Caring: Wednesday, August 12, 2:30-4pm

Come to get help planning or preparing your Advance Directive.

Craft Class with Claudia: Tuesday, August 18, 1-3pm. Join Claudia for a fun craft. Sign up and pay the $4 fee at the front desk before August 11.

Cancer Prevention Educational Series by Atrium Health: Wednesday, August 19, 11am-12pm. Join us for a tea party and a presentation

about women’s cancers by Mikala Staton. Call the center to sign up.

Great Southeast Pollinator Census: Friday, August 21, 9-10:30am. Come participate in this citizen science project to survey pollinators in the southeast states. Meet us at the garden pavilion out front of the center. Please call to sign up.

Candle Making Class: Wednesday, August 19, 1-3pm. Come learn how to make your own candles. Class is free, and all supplies are included. Call the front desk to sign up by August 12.

Digital Literacy Class by Danielle Williams with Foothills AAA: Tuesday, August 25, 11:30am12:30pm. Join us to learn about smart phone features.

Art Night with Janie: Thursday, August 27, 5:157:15pm. Come enjoy an evening of art and fun. Stop by the front desk to sign up and pay the $20 fee. All supplies are provided.

Ongoing Activities at the

SNACK SHOP

From Page 5A pancakes, French toast, burgers, cold plates, pita wraps, gyros, fried flounder, fried shrimp, daily meat and vegetable “blue plate specials”, steaks, soup, etc, etc, etc. Sandwich offerings are always in demand.

Patrick Center Ceramics: Mondays, 9:30-11:30am. Facebook Chat: Mondays, 10-10:45am. Online via Facebook. Seniors in Motion: Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays, 10:30-11:30am. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.

Better Balance: Mondays, 3:30-4:15pm. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.

Quilting: Mondays, 12:30-3pm. Beginner Quilting: Thursdays, 12-3pm.

Intermediate Line Dance (Dance Floor Rockers): Mondays, 1-3pm. Intermediate Line Dance (Southern Class): Thursdays, 10-11:30am. Clogging: Mondays, 3:30-4:30pm. Knitting: Tuesdays, 8:30-10:30am. Veterans Meeting: 1 st Tuesdays, 9-10am. Bible History: Tuesdays, 10-11am. Monthly Birthday Celebration: 4th Tuesdays, 1011am.

“Some of our best sellers are pimento cheese, chicken salad, and Greek chicken on a hoagie bun.” said Louie. “We use the Cleveland Sandwich Co. recipe for the chicken salad and pimento cheese.” So, what does Louie see as the future of the Snack Shop? Just watching him in action behind and in front of the countertop and grill makes it

REFIT Dance Exercise: Tuesdays, 11am-12pm. Volunteer Meeting: 3rd Tuesdays, 12:15-1pm. (No meeting in August) Chair Volleyball: Tuesdays, 1-3pm and Fridays, 12-2pm. Canasta: Tuesdays, 1-3pm. Seniorcise: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:30-4:15pm. Suggested donation of $1 per class for non-YMCA members.

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

Jewelry Class: Wednesdays, 10-11am. Blood Pressure Clinic (Sponsored by Centerwell Home Health): 1st Wednesdays, 10-11:30am. Hand, Foot, & Knee Card Game: Wednesdays, 1-3pm.

Food Giveaway for Seniors in Need of Food: 3rd Wednesdays, 8:30-10am. Please call to sign up each month.

Healthy Lifestyles Class: Thursdays, 8-9:30am. Gentle Exercise: Thursdays, 9:30-10:15am. Bingo: Thursdays, 10:3011:15am.

Coffee & Conversation: Fridays, 8:30-10am. Dulcimer Jam: Fridays, 9-10am. Senior Chorus: Fridays, 10-11am. New members welcome. Friday Lunch: Fridays, 11am-12pm. Call to sign up by Thursday at Noon or until we are full. Cost is $4. Ping Pong/Corn Hole: Fridays, 12-2pm. Shred Truck: Truck will come by once every four weeks to shred onsite, but you can bring your items to be shredded at any time the center is open and put them in the locked bins in the lobby. Pick up times are not given.

The Patrick Center is a SHIIP site and can help with Medicare questions and check to see if you qualify for Extra Help with your drug costs. We can also assist with transportation, loan equipment, incontinence supplies, nutritional supplements, and other services. Please call the center at 704-734-0447 for more information or to sign up for programs.

obvious this human dynamo is not slowing down any time soon, but he does say it has been seven years since we went back home to Greece and working countless hours can be tiring, so…… “I have two daughters who grew up here I could leave it to them,” he said. “If they don’t want it, I could offer it back to the Beason family. Otherwise, I will keep on working.”

The Snack Shop is open Monday-Friday 7AM8:30PM, Saturday 7AM8PM, Sunday 7AM-2PM. The Facebook page with menus, photos, and other tidbits is https://www. facebook.com/TheSnack ShopFamilyRestaurant/. Bon Appetit!

Patrons support Swooger’s last

Crowds packed

Swooger’s Restaurant on Friday night to get their last orders of Mountie Burgers, cheesesteak, milkshakes and fried chicken among other favorites. After 26 years the Kings Mountain landmark closed.

For families like Diana and Erik Price, Swooger’s was a family tradition. On Friday they had their last Mountie Burgers and peanut butter milkshakes. “We’re going to miss it. Our daughter worked here. We brought our kids and grandkids,” Diana Price said. Erik Price liked the hometown

Family YMCA Afterschool Care available

By Jimmy Black

Cleveland County Schools

American Legion Southeast Regionals begin today in Cherryville

By Jimmy Black

For American Legion Baseball teams still playing, it’s time for the various regionals around the country to hold their tournaments to crown a champion. The Southeast Regional will take place, starting today, in Cherryville. Eight teams are fighting for the right to represent the Southeast in the American Legion World Series in Shelby from August 13 through 18. The teams are from Cincinnati, Ohio, Caugas, Puerto Rico, Chesapeake, Virginia, Florence, SC, Wheeling, WV, Garner, NC, Jacksonville, Florida, and the host team, Cherryville Post 100.

Below is the schedule for the entire tournament, courtesy of Richard Walker.

Wednesday, August 5

Game 1 – Cincinnati (OH) Post 199 vs. Caugas

SBO (PR), 9:30 a.m.

Game 2 – Chesapeake (VA) Post 280 vs. Florence (SC) Post 1, 12:30 p.m.

Game 3 – Wheeling (WV) Post 1 vs. Garner

(NC) Post 232, 4:30 p.m.

Game 4 – Jacksonville (FL) Post 316 vs. Host-Cherryville (NC) Post 100, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 6

Game 5 – Loser 1 vs. Loser 3, 9:30 a.m.

Game 6 – Loser 2 vs. Loser 4, 12:30 p.m.

Game 7 – Winner 1 vs. Winner 3, 4:30 p.m.

Game 8 – Winner 2 vs. Winner 4, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, August 7 Game 9 – Winner 6 vs. Loser 7, 12:30 p.m.

Game 10 – Winner 5 vs. Loser 8, 4:30 p.m.

Game 11 – Winner 7 vs. Winner 8, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, August 8

Game 12 – Winner 9 vs. Loser 11, 4:30 p.m. Game 13 – Winner 10 vs. Winner 11, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 9

Game 14 – Winner 12 vs. Winner 13, 1:30 p.m.

Game 15 (if necessary) 4:30 p.m.

Us Design &

Wildlife Commission accepting public comments for 2027-28

Virtual Public Hearings

Scheduled for August

rules changes

• Online

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is accepting public comments through September 14, 2026, for the agency’s proposed 2027-28 hunting, fishing and game land regulation changes. Virtual public hearings on the proposed changes are scheduled for August 20 and August 25. Each year, NCWRC reviews and adjusts seasons, bag limits, and land management regulations, as needed, to achieve conservation management goals, comply with statutory changes, and respond to constituent requests and suggestions. The public is encouraged to review and comment on the proposed rule changes. Submit a comment:

• Email: regulations@ ncwildlife.gov (please include name, county, and state of residence)

• Mail: Rulemaking Coordinator, 1701 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 276991701

Participate in the virtual public hearings:

Date: August 20, 2026

Time: 12:00 p.m.

Virtual: Zoom Online Webinar.

Pre-registration is required.

Date: August 25, 2025

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Virtual: Zoom Online Webinar.

Pre-registration is required.

All proposed regulations and information on submitting comments may be found on the agency’s website.

Reach new heights with YMCA Climbing Club

Aiming Outdoorsmen Toward Christ

from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

•Mondays: 1st-3rd graders; Thursdays: 4th-8th graders.

By Gary Miller

•Instruction and guidance in rock climbing • Goal setting practices and achievement opportunities

•Weekly devotions

I just returned from one of my Circle Events. You can check them out on my website. But this most recent event was trout fishing in Arkansas. Twelve guys, all trying to catch our limit. We caught a lot of fish and commemorated our accomplishments with a fish-fry on Saturday night. These fish were not only caught by different people, but they were caught using different bait. These guys caught trout using crankbaits, top water, Rooster Tails, corn, shrimp, and worms. And the reason we all used different bait was because each one of us had both conviction and confidence in one particular lure. But while we may have believed our bait was the best, we never shunned, criticized, or disassociated ourselves with those who may have done it differently. In fact, we all celebrated together during that Saturday night fish-fry.

I think followers of Christ can learn from this as we think about those who may not always believe like we do. Did you know (I know you do) that there are numerous denominations just in our country. And not only are there numerous denominations, but there are also different factions in each of those. For instance, there are 30 different Methodist churches, 20 Presbyterian, 30 Baptist, and 100 Pentecostal churches. Not to mention Lutheran, Christian Disciples of Christ, Charismatic, Catholic, Episcopal, Independent, Mennonite, and the Amish. And I’m sure I’ve missed a few. The reason is, each one thinks their bait is better than the other. But that is not the problem. The problem, many times, is how we treat those who are using different bait. The problem is how we treat our own family who may disagree with us on secondary matters. And most things are secondary. Let me give you some examples of what we Christians disagree on… Christmas, Halloween, Make-up, Cards, Lottery, Raffle Tickets, Alcohol, Work on Sunday, Clothes, Tattoos, Movie Theatre, Marijuana, Dancing, Music, Version of the Bible, Tobacco, Material Wealth, Day of worship. And yet in all of this, Jesus’ last prayer to the Father was, “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message… So they may be one as we are one…May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” Here is what He didn’t pray. “God give them exactly what they need to know and do so that each one will walk in lockstep with each other all the time.” No, His prayer was that the world would see unity in our diversity so that the world would know that God loves them. And how are we doing? Not. So. Good. But we can change if we will learn that each one of us has different convictions that are based on a host of things from our environment, experiences, parents, DNA, the faith culture we were raised in, and other factors. These have formed what we carry in our tackle box. And while our convictions may be real, let’s not let them keep us from having a fish-fry with others who are doing it another way. Gary Miller gary@outdoortruths.org

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 24 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wildgame dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Stay updated on Outdoor Truths each week by subscribing at Outdoortruths.org

of Climbing Club will take place

•Each week participants will go through a devotion, learn new climbing skills and techniques, and have the opportunity to put them into practice through climbing.

Program Breakdown: What’s included:

•Climbing shirt •28 sessions on the rock wall per year

•End of year party For more information call Jordan Fricault at the Ruby C. Hunt YMCA, located in Boiling Springs, 704-669-3645 or email: jfricault@clevelandymca. org.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 18th of June, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Brenda Lee Jones (26E000374220), 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 Arthur Wayne Jones, Administrator c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 30, 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 29th day of July, 2026. Arthur Wayne Jones Administrator of the Estate of Brenda Lee Jones c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 14th of July, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of Jana Watts Havens (26E000428220), 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 Maggie Tate, Administratrix c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 30, 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 29th day of July, 2026.

Maggie Tate Administratrix of the Estate of Jana Watts Havens c/o A. Susan Biggers

Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C. 402 East Graham Street

Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

Having qualified on the 1st of July 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Nellie Norman Weaver (26E000309220), 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 Lawrence B. Weaver, Jr., c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 30, 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 29th day of July, 2026.

Lawrence B. Weaver, Jr. Executor of the Estate of Nellie Norman Weaver c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26E000434-220

Having qualified on 23rd of June, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of GARY W. STAYMATE, 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, Kristian Staymate, Administrator on or before the 16th of October, 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 July, 2026.

Kristian Staymate, Administrator 300 Somerset Dr. Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (7/15, 7/22, 7/29 & 8/5/2026)

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND

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

In the Matter of the Estate of: JAMES ALBERT CHILDERS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified on the 11th day of June, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate James Albert Childers, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned Executrix on or before the 2nd day of November, 2026, 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 5th day of August, 2026

Margaret Earle Childers, Ex. 638 Dixon School Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

C. Andrew Neisler, Jr.

CLONINGER & NEISLER ATTYS

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

KMH (8/5, 8/12, 8/19 & 8/26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administratrix over The Estate of Harvey Lee Kee, Sr.; aka, Harvey Lee Kee 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, 10/30/2026 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 Administratrix.

This is the 29th of July, 2026.

File No. 26E000396-220

Joan M. Kee, Administratrix

C/o Anthony Figueroa

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor over The Estate of Julia Katherine Edmundson Jones 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, 10/30/2026 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 Executor.

This is the 29th of July, 2026.

File No. 25E000764-220

John Russell Taylor, Executor

C/o Brenton S. Begley

McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26E000437-220 4/11/2026

Having qualified on 9th of July, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of CHARLES MARTIN McDANIEL, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Jerray A. Efird, Administrator on or before the 30th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 29th day of July, 2026.

Jerray A. Efird, Administrator 1211 Freeman View Drive Albermarle, NC 28001

c/o The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. PO Box 2270 Davidson, NC 28036

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12, 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000451-220

Having qualified as Administrator of the ESTATE OF KELLY MARIE HERNDON SHORT aka KELLY SHORT aka KELLY H. SHORT aka KELLY MARIE SHORT, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Kelly Marie Herndon Short aka Kelly Short aka Kelly H. Short aka Kelly Marie Short to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Duane Edward Short, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 5th day of November, 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 5th day of August, 2026.

Duane Edward Short, Administrator of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins

Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150.

KMH (8/5, 8/12, 8/19 & 8/26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000304-220

Having qualified on 7th of July, 2026 as Administrator CTA of the Estate of DOUGLAS GENE EARLE, aka DOUGLAS GENE EARL and DOUGLAS G. EARL, 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, Donna Earle Bridges, Administrator CTA on or before the 16th of October, 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 July, 2026.

Donna Earle Bridges, Administrator CTA

P.O. Box 471274 Charlotte, NC 28247

KMH (7/15, 7/22, 7/29 & 8/5/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix over The Estate of James Aaron Russ 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,10/30/2026 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 is the 29th of July, 2026.

File No. 25E001892-220

Sandra Whetstine Russ, Executrix C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law 233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000476-220

Having qualified on 14th of July, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of JAMES LEE COLEMAN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Sandra Odoms Coleman, Administratrix on or before the 30th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 29th day of July, 2026.

Sandra Odoms Coleman, Administratrix 413 Rocky Brook Rd Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000467-220

Having qualified on 9th of July, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of JOEY WAYNE WATKINS, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Tamala Watkins, Administratrix on or before the 23rd of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 22nd day of July, 2026.

Tamala Watkins, Administratrix 513 Mauney Lane Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/22, 29, 8/05 & 12/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000482-220

Having qualified as Executor of the ESTATE OF BRUCE EDWARD WIGGINS, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Bruce Edward Wiggins to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Jacob Edward Wiggins, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 5th day of November, 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 5th day of August, 2026.

Jacob Edward Wiggins, Executor of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150. KMH (8/5, 8/12, 8/19 & 8/26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25E000445-220

Having qualified as Administrator of the ESTATE OF JAMES GREENE aka JAMES ELTON GREENE aka JIMMY GREENE, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said James Greene aka James Elton Greene aka Jimmy Greene to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, Hope G. Binion, c/o Loann S. Meekins, Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC, 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 on or before the 22nd day of October, 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 22nd day of July, 2026.

Hope G. Binion, Administrator of the Estate c/o Loann S. Meekins Teddy Meekins & Talbert, PLLC 405 E. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/22, 7/29, 8/5 & 8/12/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 24th of July 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Steven Ray Baker (26E000345220), 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 November 6, 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 5th day of August, 2026.

A. Susan Biggers Administrator of the Estate of Steven Ray Baker

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

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (8/05, 12, 19 & 26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATOR

Having qualified on the 1st of July, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Austell Bettis, III (20E000454-220), 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 Brian A. Bettis, Administrator c/o A. Susan Biggers, Deaton & Biggers, P.L.L.C., 402 East Graham Street, Shelby, North Carolina 28150, on or before October 16, 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 15th day of July, 2026.

Brian A. Bettis Administrator of the Estate of Austell Bettis, III c/o A. Susan Biggers

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

402 East Graham Street Shelby, North Carolina 28150

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000286-220

Having qualified on 9th of July, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate of DANNY E. BRIDGES, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Connie B. Johnson, Executrix on or before the 16th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 15th day of July, 2026.

Connie B. Johnson, Executrix 21 Heritage Lane Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000468-220

Having qualified on 29th of July, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate of SARA THOMAS MOORE, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Alice T. Harrill: aka, Alice Taylor Harrill, Executrix on or before the 6th of November, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of August, 2026.

Alice T. Harrill; aka, Alice Taylor Harrill, Executrix 368 Freewill Baptist Church Road Bostic, NC 28018

KMH (8/05, 12, 19 & 26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK File No. 26E000399-220

In the Matter of the Estate of: PAULA LYNN GEURIN, Deceased.

Having qualified on the 10th day of June, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Paula Lynn Geurin, 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 13th day of October, 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 July, 2026.

Gina Rahbari

232 Hoot Owl Ln. Leander, TX 78641

T. Brandon Jaynes Archonix Law

412 N. Lafayette St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/18, 7/25, 8/5, 8/12/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26E000379-220

EXECUTRIX’S NOTICE

Having qualified on 30th of July, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate of JOHN LYNN SARRATT, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Donna Lynn Davenport, Executrix on or before the 6th of November, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of August, 2026.

Donna Lynn Davenport, Executrix

145 Pond Dr. Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

KMH (8/05, 12, 19 & 26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26E000494-220

Having qualified on 22nd of July, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of DONALD WAYNE MAYES, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Kelly Burton Mayes, Administrator on or before the 30th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 29th day of July, 2026.

Kelly Burton Mayes, Administrator 159 Tiara Drive Kings Mountain, NC 28086

KMH (7/29, 8/05, 12 & 19/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26E000386-220

Having qualified on 6th of July, 2026 as Executrix of the Estate of KAY BAILEY JONES, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Mary Louise Jones Kane, Executrix on or before the 16th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 15th day of July, 2026.

Mary Louise Jones Kane, Executrix 1622 North Oak Dr. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executrix over The Estate of Kathyrn Jenell Whittenburg, 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, 10/16/2026 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 executor.

This is the 15th of July, 2026.

File No. 26E000023-220

Tonya Walls Barringer, Executrix

C/o Brenton S. Begley McIntyre Elder Law

233 E. Graham St. Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 26E000405-220

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of ROBERT WILLIAM YELTON of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Robert William Yelton to present them to the undersigned by October 20, 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 July, 2026.

Don L. Yelton

110 Shady Ridge Lane Shelby, NC 28150

Executor of the Estate of Robert William Yelton

John V. Schweppe, III

THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A.

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

KMH (7/22, 7/29, 8/5 & 8/12/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor over The Estate of Roy Charles Price, Sr. deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before, 6th of November, 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 Executor.

This is the 5th of August, 2026.

File No. 26E000493-220

Matthew David Price, Executor 2600 Lee Bess Rd. Cherryville, NC 28021

KMH (8/5, 8/12, 8/19 & 8/26/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000444-220

Having qualified on 25th of June, 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of GRACE MARIE BRISCOE, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Milton Ray Tertius Briscoe, Administrator on or before the 16th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 15th day of July, 2026.

Milton Ray Tertius Briscoe, Administrator 101 Buck Landing Shelby, NC 28150

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23E654

Having qualified on 8th of August, 2023 as Administratrix of the Estate of KHI’RAN DEVON LITTLEJOHN, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Shonda Huskey, Administratrix on or before the 16th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned. This is the 15th day of July, 2026.

Shonda Huskey, Administratrix 3019 Poplar Circle Shelby, NC 28152

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CLEVELAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000356-220

Having qualified on 9th of July, 2026 as Administratrix of the Estate of CHARLES JOSEPH BERGENSTOCK, deceased, late of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against estate to present them to the undersigned, Virginia Forster, Administratrix on or before the 16th of October, 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 payments to the undersigned.

This is the 15th day of July, 2026.

Virginia Forster, Administratrix 12201 Oakshade Ln. Matthews, NC 28105

KMH (7/15, 22, 29 & 8/05/2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CLEVELAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 26E000469-220

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of LARRY ALAN LANE of Cleveland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Estate of Larry Alan Lane to present them to the undersigned by November 3, 2026, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

This the 5th day of August, 2026.

Terry S. Lane 1557 Hilltop Drive Shelby, NC 28150

Administrator of the Estate of Larry Alan Lane

John V. Schweppe, III THE SCHWEPPE LAW FIRM, P.A. Post Office Box 1269 Shelby, North Carolina 28151-1269 (704) 487-7204

KMH (8/5, 8/12, 8/19, & 8/26/2026)

1705

MASTER GARDENER CLASSES BEGIN SOON! If you have a passion for gardening, the Extension Master Gardener Program can help you improve your horticultural knowledge, hone your gardening skills, and join a team of 70 trainied volunteers who are excited about lifelong learning and educating Cleveland County citizens about research-based gardening practices. The 2026 course will be offered on Tuesdays fron 4 to 6 p.m. beginning August 25 and ending November 17 at the Cleveland County Extension Center located at 130 S. Post Road in Shelby, NC. The registration fee is $125, which includes a copy of the Extension Master Gardener Handbook. Act quickly because registration is required by August 15. For more details or to request an application, contact Greg Traywick at 704-482-4365 or gbtraywi@ncsu.edu. gbtraywi@ncsu.edu

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANCHOR DOWN RESELL... AUGUST SPECIALS! Every day of the week! MONDAY: 1/2 off dish room. TUESDAY: 1/2 off all electronics. WEDNESDAY: fill a 13 gallon trash bag with clothes & shoes

$10. Thursday: 1/2 off linens. Friday: fill a bag of DVDs, CDs & movies $3. Every purchase gets you a ticket for a FREE ITEM drawing on Friday. Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Follow us on Facebook: AnchorDown Resell. 155 West Main St., Forest City.

SHEILA’S DECOR & COLLECTABLES. Southside Market, 1316 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Every Fri. & Sat., 9-3. Inside (AC).

BARNDOMINIUM-MODULAR-DOUBLE WIDES set up on your land with no money down! HEATH’S HOME ZONE 703-5 King Street, Kings Mountain, NC. (754) 663-9663

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

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS with Scratch Pads! PRESS ROOM PRINTING. Call (704) 482-2243

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED. Experienced serious hard workers for landscaping, etc. in Lincoln area. 704-526-6640.

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. ejw9738@ gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY.

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

SMALL ENGINE REPAIR

Kings Mountain area. Schedule an appointment. (910) 474-2374

CLEVELAND COUNTY GARAGE 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 NEED HANDICAP PARKING? Free Exam/Evaluation. Your favorite Chiropractor, Dr. Jim King. By Appointment only. 401 N. Logan St, Gaffney, SC. (770) 846-5400

C&G HEADSTONE RESTORATION/CLEANING SERVICES. Starting at $19.99. Call for free estimate. 704466-5602.

PERSONAL CAREGIVER: Middle-age man looking for clients as a personal caregiver. Can run some errands, light housework. Have references. Call (828) 748-9159

BUSINESS SERVICES

OFFERING QUALITY

HANDYMAN SERVICES! Over 30 Years Exp.Offering Pressure Washing, Deck Staining, Deck Repairs, Rebuilds, Concrete Sealing, Concrete Repairs, Home Repairs, Asphalt Sealing, Install New Gutters and much more! No job Too big or Small, Give us a call we will show up. 704692-4449 (704) 692-4449 stevenmarlow952@gmail.com

AUCTIONS

STORAGE AUCTIONS.

8:00AM, Aug 14th, 2026 at Baker Storage; https://www. bakerstoragelincolnton.com, Units: #3 Ramsey, #61 Barker, #81 Humphries, #96 Cain 9:00AM, Aug 14th, 2026 at C&M Storage; https://www. lincolntonstorage.com, Units: #110/111 Campa, #92 Board 9:30AM, Aug 14th, 2026 at Settle Storage; https://www. settlestoragecenter.com, Units #30 Eaves, #79 Jackson 10:00AM, Aug 14th, 2026 at Patterson Springs Storage; https://www.shelbystorage. com, Units: #59 Saunders 10:30AM, Aug 14th, 2026 at Longview Storage; https:// www.longview-storage.com, Units: #9 Buff 01:00PM, Aug 14th, 2026 at Rutherford Storage; https://www.rutherfordstorage.com, Units: #A15, B07, C17 Weeks, #A03 Blanton (704) 473-7358 andrew. sain@gmail.com

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

PRICED TO SELL. SHELBY NC, Saturday, August 15th, 6:30am-10:30am. Tools, Harley-Davidson gear, toys. All kinds of stuff! Priced to sell! 403 Peach Street, Shelby, NC 28150

FOR SALE

DALE EARNHART, JR ORIGINAL AUTOGRAPH. He signed on my hard hat when I was building his shop. When he was driving the #8 car. Like new! Also have the Sharpie marker. $500 or Best Reasonable Offer! (704) 2976688

JET WOODBAND SAW. 14 in. Call if interested. 770-7120377.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Fire pit wood packs-$3 each. That’s more than half price. $7 store price. Delivery available. 704-435-3970.

SEVERAL MOWING DECKS. Four John Deere Garden Tractors. 100, 200, 300, 400, Series Tractors. Call Randy for sizes and prices. (704) 472-7800

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

Lafayette St., Shelby 704600-6996 or (704) 300-6236 WE BUY VINTAGE BALL CARDS. Baseball, Football, Basketball, Hockey & More! Come See Us for A Fair Price! JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-600-6996 or (704) 300-6236 GOLDEN DOMERS TOY AND HOBBY. Visit our NEW LOCATION .....Model Cars, Die-cast Cars & Trucks, Tractors, Hot Wheels, Construction Toys, Sports Memorabilia, Autographed Items, Hard to Find Items! See Mike & Brandon Willis. We’re located at 104 Oliver Ave. (behind El Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Boiling Springs), Shelby 704-297-0102 or 704-297-

HAVE YOU LISTENED? thepixelunderground.com. The Pixel People Pod, an 80s-themed podcast. We discuss 80s things as Generation X kids, such as toys, music, movies and people. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, www.youtube. com/@Thepixelunderground & iHeartRadio! Subscribe today!

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, CAMERA SYSTEM INSTALLATION, PRESSURE WASHING, AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE. RELIABLE SERVICE WITH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AT FAIR PRICES! ALSO ASK ABOUT OUR CUSTOM TABLES! (704) 466-2333

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

FARM FRESH VEGETABLES FOR SALE. Tomatoes, Okra, peppers, watermelons, blueberries & pumpkins. Local owned and grown. Saturdays 8am to 12pm. 370 Mount Zion Church Rd., Casar, NC 28020 HAMRICK ESTATE SALE. Friday, August 7th, 2026 from 8:00AM-2:00PM; Saturday, August 8th, 2026 from 8:00AM-2:00PM. A pickers paradise! If you love a good treasure hunt, you won’t want to miss this estate sale. There is SO much to look through- furniture, kitchen items, home decor, glassware, collectibles, tools, holiday decorations, books, religious material and lots of unique finds. Whether you’re shopping for your home or just enjoy finding a great deal, there’s a little bit of everything. 612 Crestfield Court, Shelby, NC 28152

INSIDE YARD SALE /FUNDRAISER. Saturday, August 8th, 7:00-11:00AM. NEW CAMP CREEK CHURCH. Clothes, Newborn-X-Large, Shoes, Household items, DVD’s, Pet Supplies, Golf clubs, Wedding Supplies, lots of great bargains for everyone. Near Moss Lake, 863 New Camp Creek Church Rd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086

TRAILERS, LAWNMOWER TRAILERS, FLATBED TRAILERS, Enclosed Trailers, Horse and Cattle Trailers, Saddlery. Check our prices and quality before you buy. Bridges Riding Equipment. Boiling Springs, NC. 704-434-6389, (704) 473-0867

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

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

3 BURIAL PLOTS FOR SALE. Cleveland Memorial Park, Chimes Garden Section $3699 each includes transfer fee. Negotiable. (704) 6920450

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

STORAGE BUILDINGS !!! Buy One Off The Lot OR Have One Custom Built With Your Colors & Options! Cash • Finance • Rent to Own. “No Credit Check” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

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

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Call 24/7: 1-866-489-0571. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! Miscellaneous We Buy Houses for Cash AS-IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Call today for your fair cash offer: 1-919-9256362. Miscellaneous Get a High Quality, Modern Design bath or shower transformation in as little as One Day. $0 Down, $0 Installation, $0 Payments for 12 months! Call: 1-877243-7050. 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 844492-0883

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: 1-866-9230482

Miscellaneous Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-869-7055 today! Miscellaneous Replace your roof with the best looking

FOR SALE

CASE XX KNIFE DEALER DISPLAYS. We have a large selection of CASE XX Dealer Display Cases. Some with the original knives and some empty. These are perfect for Every Collector! JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby. Call 704-300-6236 or (704) 600-6996

LOST & FOUND

LOST-COUNTY LINE RD AREA. Bare Mare with 4 white stockings. Contact Liz at 704-300-4030 with any information.

WANT TO BUY

WANT TO BUY CARS & TRUCKS. Trailers, Tractors, Farm Equipment. Must have ID and proof of ownership. Callahan’s Towing. (704) 6921006

WANTED: OLD AND NEW AMMO. Reloading supplies. Call 828-289-1488.

WE BUY, SELL, TRADE TRAILERS. “Must Have Title”. (828) 245-5895

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

FARM & GARDEN

4600 FORD TRACTOR, GOOD CONDITION. With new paint. 5 ft. bush hogs. $13,500. (828) 748-3366

HAY, SQUARE BALES. $4 to $7. Also 200+ Bales Horse Hay, $8. Cut in Spring before rain came. Under Shelter. 704-418-1744.

LAWN MOWER JACK, PRO SERIES. New! Never been used. (bought new $289.90) $200 OBO. !500 lb. Capacity. (704) 472-7800

LAND PRIDE FDR1672. 6 ft., 3 point hitch, finish mower, very good condition. $2,100. 980-241-9010.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. Wonderful working and show line German shepherd puppies. Hip tested good, DNA tested, AKC parents. Sire is black/red, weighs 95lbs and Dam is black/tan by color, weighs 70lbs, med-high drive. 3 females and 3 males available. Come with AKC registration, shots, vet checked, puppy training, food to take home. rsutak26@hotmail.com (828) 292-3001 rsutak26@hotmail. com

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

TAKING RESERVATIONS.

TOY & MINI AUSSIES. Male & female. Parents on premises. (828) 289-6756

CHIWEENIE PUPPIES. 5 males. 1 female. Ready for new home. First set of shots and dewormed every two weeks. $300 each. Chihuahua puppy, female, $500. (704) 466-6983

WANTED: GERMAN SHEP-

HERD MIX PUPPY. We are in search of German Shepherd Mix Puppy. If you have any leads, please text me 704-477-5411. My phone is only accepting texts only. I appreciate any help finding our next dog. (704) 477-5411 coydogs4@carolina.rr.com

FREE PUPPY TO GOOD HOME. Anatolian Shepherd, 3 months old. Has had all shots it will ever need. 704473-2897, 704-472-4246.

POMCHI PUPPY 8 WEEKS

OLD. ready for new home, 1st set of shots & dewormed every 2 weeks. $400. (704) 466-6983

CAMPERS

VINTAGE CAMPER FOR

SALE Don’t Wait! 1973 Vin-

CARS & TRUCKS

2008 FORD F350 TRUCK. 5.4. 4x4, AT, White. $6000. Also! 2008 BMW Z4 $6500. AT, Blue. (704) 300-9223

1997 BMW Z-3, $4000 or Best Offer. 980-291-5765.

1993 FORD CLUB WAGON Passenger Van. 77,000 Miles. “Selling As-Is”. Accepting Sealed Bids until Friday Aug., 14, 2026. SEND TO: Crestview Baptist Church, Attention Transportation Committee 1090 Old Boiling Springs Rd., Shelby NC 28152. Highest Bidder Will Be Contacted Monday, August 17, 2026. For More information OR to Set Up A Time to View CALL 704-472-1245

2024 KIA FORTE

(704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth. net TWO BURIAL PLOTS FOR SALE at Eternal Hills in Forest City. $1,000 each. Text only (828) 429-9862 SMALL FLATBED PUSH CART $50. I have several of them some with fold down handles for easy storage. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

BOATS

14FT. ALUMINUM BOAT & TRAILER. Electric trolling motor, fish finder & more. Tilt trailer, new wheels, tires & lights. $1300. Also new 5HP Honda motor available for sale. Leave message, (828) 287-2988

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FULL BLOODED GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. 6 weeks old. UTD worming, No shots. Parents on site $350. (704) 214-0693

tage Camper, 14ft long 7.5 wide, queen bed, Futon that makes full bed. Bathroom has toilet, no shower but could easily add one, Kitchen sink, fridge, and microwave. Plenty of storage. Completely remodeled less than 2 years ago. New awning, new tires, new roof, garage kept. No leaks. Truly a must see. Ready to camp. Not perfect as It’s over 50 years old, but not priced like perfect one either. I just don’t have time to use. My loss, your gain. No title as I bought this way, will come with bill of sale only. We have towed it all over NC and SC with no issues. $5500.00 Firm call or text for photos and more information (704) 6924449 stevenmarlow952@ gmail.com

2022 PALOMINO SS-1251 SLIDE IN pop up camper. AC and heat, inside toilet and shower, back up camera, electric jacks, tie downs. Never used, new. $18,000. (704) 472-2854

2020 FOREST RIVER CRUISE LITE. Sleeps 5, has an electric fireplace, full size refrigerator, TV, full size sofa. 24 foot. Lite weight. Comes with towing package. Call for more info and price. Ask for Raymond (704) 692-5200

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Tips to keep your pet in the yard

Few can resist the call of the great outdoors, and that includes the family pet. Pets can gain a lot by spending supervised time outdoors, which offers opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. While time in the yard can be good for pets, there are some notable dangers pet owners must be aware of. The ASPCATM notes that ticks, blue-green algae, insects like bees, wasps and hornets, and toxic plants are just some of the backyard hazards that can jeopardize pet health. Of course, there’s also the risk that pets wander off when spending time outdoors. No matter how attentive pet owners are, pets may bound off in pursuit of wildlife or simply wander off out of curiosity. Pet owners looking to avoid

such scenarios can employ these measures to keep their furry friends in the yard.

• Spay or neuter the animal. The American Animal Hospital Association notes that intact pets have an innate drive to reproduce. That’s true for both male and female pets, and the compulsion to reproduce increases pets’ desire to roam in search of a mate. Spaying or neutering removes that hormonal desire, which is one of a handful of reasons to spay and neuter a pet.

• Erect a fence around the property. Fences are sometimes characterized as “great neighbors,” and they’re also effective at keeping some pets within a yard. Some pet owners opt for invisible fencing, but many animal advocacy organizations note this option

can be inhumane. For example, VCA Animal Hospitals notes that some animals may ignore the audible signal that warns pets to remain in the yard, which then leads to the discharge of an electric stimulus similar to a shock. That can be painful to the animal. A traditional, physical fence will not harm the animal, and it will prevent the pet from seeing animals on the other side of the fence that may compel it to chase.

• Protect animals from loud noises. Wildlife and other domesticated pets often compel pets to chase, but some pets run out of fear of loud noises.

Pet owners are urged to keep their pets indoors during times when loud noises can be expected. Holidays when fireworks are shot off, morn-

ings when loud lawn mowers or leaf blowers are used, and the sound of thunder all can frighten pets and compel them to flee.

• Reconsider your landscaping. Pets may run when they see wildlife enter the yard, and that wildlife then runs away upon recognition that a pet is on the chase. When choosing plants for your property, pick plants that are unlikely to attract wildlife. In addition, remove bird feeders from the property, as they tend to attract small animals like chipmunks that many pets cannot resist chasing.

A runaway pet is a scenario no pet owner wants to confront. Some simple strategies can greatly reduce the risk a pet will run away when spending time in the yard.

DIVE RIGHT IN WORD SEARCH

Behind the stern of a

Sanctuary in Orthodox churches

Swiss river

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Engrave

UNC’s chief rival

Midway between south and southeast

Dear Savvy Senior, I had a living will/ advance directive prepared about 10 years ago documenting my end-of-life medical wishes, but I’ve read that these documents are often ignored. What can you tell me about this?

--Troubled Tina

Dear Tina, Yes, unfortunately, that can happen. Living wills aren’t always followed in practice, most often because the document isn’t available when it’s needed or never reaches the right people in time. They can also fall short because they aren’t medical orders, and the language may be too vague to guide doc-

tors in an emergency. That doesn’t mean your wishes won’t be honored, but it does mean a little extra planning can help prevent confusion later.

Here’s how to make sure your wishes are followed.

Advance directive + POLST

About 40 percent of older Americans have an advance directive. This typically includes a living will that spells out the care you want if you become incapacitated, and a health care power of attorney (or proxy) who is authorized to make decisions on your behalf.

To strengthen those

instructions, talk with your doctor about completing a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) – sometimes called MOLST or POST depending on your state. Unlike a living will, this is a doctor-signed medical order that must be followed by EMTs and hospital staff. It translates your wishes into clear instructions for treatments such as CPR, breathing machines, and feeding tubes.

These interventions can save lives but may also cause harm if you are very ill or frail. Discussing them ahead of time helps you weigh the trade-offs and makes it easier for your fam-

ily to understand your choices, easing stress if decisions must be made quickly.

Even if you already have an advance directive, adding a POLST can make your wishes clearer. Without one, first responders are generally required to attempt resuscitation and transport you to a hospital, where doctors may pursue aggressive treatment if your living will isn’t available or specific enough.

Once your POLST is completed, make sure it is easy to find. Keep a copy on the refrigerator, carry one in your wallet, and save a photo on your phone. Share copies with your

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

By JIM MILLER Editor

health care proxy, family members, and physicians so everyone is aligned.

It’s also wise to ask your providers to add the form to your electronic health record, since medical information isn’t always shared between hospitals and care facilities. These steps can make a real difference in helping ensure your wishes are followed.

If discussing these issues with family feels difficult, websites like The Conversation Project (theconversationproject.org) and Prepare for Your Care (prepareforyourcare.org) offer helpful guidance.

One final note: if you’re planning surgery, you may want to temporarily suspend your POLST in case your heart stops briefly during the procedure. And if you haven’t yet created an advance directive, you can do so for free at caringinfo. org or mydirectives. com, or for a small fee – $5 to $7.50 – at fivewishes.org. Taking these steps now can help ensure your wishes are followed and ease the burden on your loved ones later.

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