Shelby Shopper 7_2_26

KM’s Sophia Kellstrom had

year as Miss North Carolina 2025

By Alan Hodge

When Sophia Kellstrom of Kings Mountain was crowned Miss North Carolina on June 28, 2025, she began a year long journey of service and celebration that formed memories she will cherish for years to come.

Kellstrom broke new ground with her title. She is the 87th Miss North Carolina and the first young lady from Kings Mountain to earn that prestigious title. She is one of only three Cleveland County women to be named Miss North Carolina and go on to compete for Miss America. The

Miss America Organization as so much more than a pageant,” she said. “It’s a platform for service, scholarship, and personal growth. I wanted to use my voice to advocate for causes close to my heart, specifically fighting food insecurity, while also growing into the woman and leader I knew I could become.”

Kellstrom describes herself as “a lifelong changemaker”. She’s the founder of Pennies for Heaven, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating food insecurity. For over 20 years, she has led initiatives on the local, state, national, and international

and school visits combined,” she said. “From festivals and parades to legislative advocacy and community outreach, every

Race, and of course the NC

fun times were skydiving with the United States Army Golden Knights, singing the national anthem at the Charlotte NASCAR

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from every walk of life, hear their stories, and serve communities in ways I never imagined. Representing North Carolina on the Miss America Competition stage was also an unforgettable honor, but the heart of this year has truly been the people.”

Kellstrom says she’s passionate about inspiring the next generation. She created a school curriculum and authored the children’s book Sophie the Superhero to empower young minds. Through her work, she encouraged every child to embrace the message that “helping is their superpower”.

“I would encourage any young woman to compete because pageants teach you confidence, discipline, poise, and how to use your voice with purpose,” she said. “The scholarships, opportunities, and lifelong relationships are incredible, but more importantly, they help you discover who you are. It’s about so much more than a crown. I actually started the Miss Mountie Pageant in Kings Mountain, as a way to provide these opportunities to young ladies in my community, if anyone is interested, email missmountiepageant@yahoo. com.”

Expanding her impact even further, she launched the Blessly App, an innovative platform designed to connect individuals and families with blessing boxes, across the nation. The app serves as a bridge between those seeking assistance and those looking to make a difference, helping communities work together to combat food insecurity one connection at a time.

Todd Hagans of Kings Mountain is a veteran of the beauty pageant scene having emceed many an event. He also acted in a managerial role for numerous contestants. Here are his impressions of Kellstrom.

“I served as Sophia’s business manager and adviser when she was Miss Gastonia 2018,” Hagans said. “At the time, she was 18 years old and had just graduated from high school – she was considered a youngster in the Miss North Carolina pageant, but even at 18 years old, there was a special spark about her. Her personality, her determination, her talent, and her dedication to com-

participated in many events across North Carolinas during her reign, including the Azalea Festival in Wilmington on April 14.

munity service made her the ideal beauty queen. I knew back then that she possessed the potential, energy, and mindset to be Miss North Carolina. It has been amazing to see how much success she has experienced after serving as Miss North Carolina for the past year. I am incredibly proud of her, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been an influence in her life.”

Kellstrom is looking forward to a bright future continuing her commitment to helping others.

“In the future, I plan to continue growing my nonprofit, Pennies for Heaven,

and expanding the work we’ve started to combat food insecurity,” she said. “I also look forward to building a life with my fiancé and stepping into this next season with the same heart for service that this year has strengthened in me. No matter where life takes me, advocacy and community impact will always be at the center of it.”

There you have it, through service, advocacy, and innovation, Kellstrom continues to demonstrate that meaningful change begins with a heart willing to help others.

Awesome golfers turn out for Shelby Lions Club Foundation Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 27th

All funds raised help improve quality of life for sight impaired people in Cleveland County

The Shelby Lions Club Foundation golf tournament was held Sat., June 27, 2026 at Shelby City Park Royster Memorial Golf Course. The weather was hot and so was the competition on the course. With a 3-way tie for first place, broken by the tie-breaker, the seasoned competitors were there to play. The event was well attended with 36 golfers showing. Highlights of the day included grilled hot dogs for lunch for golfers & VIPs courtesy of “Chef” Jeff Weathers, a 50/50 drawing, closest to the pin winners, and opportunities for people to learn about Lions Club mission.

About the Shelby Lions Club: Organized in 1929, the Shelby Lions Club has a rich history of providing services to Cleveland County residents. Services include providing free vision screenings, eye exams, eye glasses, visual aid equipment, supporting visually impaired people by providing annual holiday meals, camping experiences at Camp Dogwood and providing scholarships/financial

Shelby City Park for all your hard work before the tournament and during the event. The Lions Club could not have had such a successful tournament if it wasn’t for the kindness and dedication of Coach and his staff.

Shelby Lions Club thanks the following generous sponsors: AAA Climate Control Storage, Alston Bridges Barbecue, Bethel Baptist Church, Bert Costner NC Farm Bureau Insurance, Biz Hub Coworking, Community First Media - Publisher of Shelby Shopper & Info, Cleveland County Family YMCA , Joe Davison - in Memory of Marolyn, Ellis Lumber - in Memory of Yancy Ellis, Heath Foster - in Memory of Albert, High Standards Farm-Catherine Tucker - in Memory of PopPop, Vicky Huntsinger - in Memory of Mike Huntsinger, M.T. Heavy Repair Rutherfordton, Numbers Bookkeeping & Income Tax, Poteat’s Front End & Brake Service, QBX Accounting LLC, Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge, ShelbyNetworks, Joe Suttle, Jan Tucker - in Memory of David Tucker, Jojo Tucker - in Memory of David Tucker , and Westmoreland Printers. As well as countless community partners and individuals that helped promote

in-kind donations. The support of community makes our mission happen!

If you are interested in becoming a Lions Club member or volunteering, please email info@shelbynclions.com or call 833-546-6731 and leave a message. Visit our website shelbynclions.com

Shelby Lions Club holds a monthly evening meeting, second Tuesday of the month, starting at 5:30pm. Meetings are currently held at the American Legion Post 82 building on S. Lafayette St. in Shelby, NC. Meetings generally include a brief program and a meal.

BROOMS

on the Shelby Lions Club or to purchase quantities of brooms call 833-546-6731 email: info@shelbynclions.com Visit our website shelbynclions.com

an Outstanding Success!

June 6, 2026, was an exciting day for The Emergency Assistance Food Program (TEFAP) team of volunteers and Cleveland County community located at Green Bethel Baptist Church (i.e., 120 Bethel Ave., Shelby, NC 28152). How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it!

Words cannot fully express how thankful I am for your amazing kindness and support from the Dover Foundation Inc. and Hospice Cleveland County Foundation for $55,000.00 in grants. We could not have done it without your support! You are such a special organization, and your presence truly is effective in the Cleveland County community!

Special recognition and gratitude to our team of volunteer workers: Mr. Stanley Humphries, Mr. Michael Phillips, Ms. Chasity Gaston (decorator), Ms. Betty Fernanders (Assistant to the Director), and our Green Bethel Baptist Church pastor, Rev. Wade Wallace. Thank you for all that you do! You mean so much!

Donations are Welcome, 2922 Lon St. Shelby, NC 28152. Ms. Jennie Sue Poston, (TEFAP) Director. Submitted by Jennie Poston

NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

THURSDAY, JULY 2

What: Bostic Freedom Fest

When: 6:00 pm, July 2.

Where: Concord Baptist Church, 720 Old US 74, Bostic, NC.

More Info: Live music, food, K9 Demo, kids activities including a mega water balloon fight, historical artifacts and more. The evening will end with a fireworks show. Join us as we celebrate Faith, Family and Freedom!

FRIDAY, , JULY 3

What: 250th Celebration of Liberty

When: 1:00 pm, July 3.

Where: Afton Drive, across from Food Lion, 74 Business West. More Info: Join us the, Friends of the Brigade, to celebrate the life and sacrifices of Preston Goforth, patriot militia member of the American Revolution at the Battle of Kings Mountain. Bring a chair and celebrate Freedom. Contact Don Jenkins 704-6783461 for more information.

What: The Banker’s House

When: 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm, July 3.

Where: The Banker’s House, 319 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC.

More Info: The Banker’s House will welcome visitors with the return of Guided Historic Tours every Friday and Open House Wednesdays for Cleveland County residents. Open House Wednesdays are free for Cleveland County residents and provide a relaxed opportunity to wander the home, admire its architecture, and soak in its rich history. On Fridays, historic guided tours are available for $10 per person, with tours offered between the hours of 2–5 p.m. Private group tours may also be arranged by contacting May Reed, Executive Director of The Banker’s House, at (980) 404-0096.

SATURDAY, JULY 4

What: Crouse 4th of July

When: 3:00 pm, July 4.

Where: Intersection Crouse School Rd., & Swanson Rd., Crouse, NC.

More Info: The parade is free and open to the public. Spectators are warmly invited to line the route and enjoy this patriotic celebration of American Independence and small-town community spirit. Churches, organizations, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to enter the parade. Acceptable entries include golf carts, tractors with trailers, floats, lawn mowers with trailers, classic cars, trucks, four-wheelers, bicycles, horses with wagons or buggies, horses with riders, and more. Creative, patriotic-themed decorations are highly encouraged. All entrants must complete a parade entry form, which can be obtained in advance or on the day of the event. Forms are available at Memory Lane, the CCHPP office across from the Post Office, or via the Crouse 4th of July Parade Facebook group.

What: Lattimore 4th of July

When: 8:30 am, July 4.

Where: Downtown Lattimore, Lattimore, NC.

More Info: The Town of Lattimore invites the public to come to the annual 4th of July Parade and Celebration on Saturday, July 4th, in downtown Lattimore. The parade line-up will begin off of Oak Dr./Towery Rd. at 8:30 am, and the parade will begin at 9 am. Parade entries will include elected officials, businesses, churches, antique tractors and cars, and much more! The celebration will begin at 10:30 am at the Lattimore Baptist Church Recreation Park. The program will include the National Anthem, recognition of veterans, and live music. Lattimore Baptist Church will be selling biscuits and hot dogs throughout the morning. Parade entries may register at the link found at lattimorenc.gov. Please call 704-434-2620 or email townclerk@latttimorenc.gov for more information. Begin celebrating the 250 year anniversary of America by coming to our parade!

SUNDAY, , JULY 5

What: Belwood Heritage Museum

When: 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm, July 5.

Where: Belwood Heritage Museum, 133 Carpenters Grove Church Rd., Lawndale, NC.

More Info: On display are antique farm equipment and tools, furniture, household items, pictures, and numerous miscellaneous items of interest from rural life in the late 1800’s/early 1900’s, all donated by members of the local community. Admission is free.

SATURDAY, JULY 11

What: Red, White & Woof RESCHEDULED!

When: 11:00 am until 3:00 pm, July 11. Where: C.A.R.E.’s Rescue (Former Earl Owensby Studio), 1 Motion Picture Blvd., Shelby, NC.

More Info: Rescheduled Red, White and Woof! Join us for a fun-filled, family-friendly day supporting rescue dogs and our community! Live music, food trucks, (TJ’s Hamburgers), vendors and more. Meet lots of CARE adoptable dogs of all ages. Fun for the whole family at our new facility! Bring your dog, a chair, and come out, have fun, and help save lives!

Vendors welcome, sign up at https://form.jotform.com/.../red-white--woof-vendor.

Vendor fee: $20 (non-refundable). Please bring your own tables, chairs, pop up tent.

SATURDAY, JULY 11

What: Fundraiser for Parents Against Bullying

When: 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, July 11. Where: Shelby VFW Post 4066, 855 W. Warren St. Shelby, NC. More Info: Parents Against Bullying & Injustice NC INC. is working hard to prepare for our 12th Annual Back To School Bash on August 9, 2026, and we need to sell 100 Spaghetti Dinner tickets by July 1 to help make this event a success! For just $15, you’ll enjoy: Spaghetti ,Salad, Garlic Bread, Beverage, Dessert. Plus, we’ll be hosting a Silent Auction with amazing items available for bidding! Every ticket purchased helps us provide school supplies and support to children in our community as they prepare for the upcoming school year. To purchase tickets, please contact: Samantha Davis at 704-418-6995 or David Poston, 704-6927060. If someone wants to contribute, they can through Cash App: $pabinc2013, Venmo: @pabnc13 and Zelle is 704-418-6995. We are also accepting donations for our Silent Auction. If you would like to donate an item or service, please send us a message or give us a call. Please help us reach our goal of selling 100 tickets by July 1! Together, we can make sure local children start the school year with the supplies they need and the confidence they deserve.

~ANNOUNCEMENTS~

Foothills Quilters Guild: Foothills Quilters Guild invites you to join us each month on the third Thursday at the Ascension Lutheran Church, 300 N. Lafayette St. in Shelby, NC. We welcome new members young and old to learn and share in the talents and knowledge of the art of Quilting. Our doors are open at 10am for open sew day. Bring your machine and any project to work on or join in on the mystery Block of the Month or other fun activities throughout the day. Our meeting begins at 7pm with demonstrations and programs from area speakers followed by show and tell, door prizes and other meeting content. Call 803-370-0357 for more information.

Astronomy Club Meeting: The Cleveland County Astronomical Society will meet at the William’s Observatory located on the Gardner-Webb Campus in Boiling Springs, NC July 16th, 2026 at 7:00pm. If you have an interest in astronomy come by and check us out.

Monthly Meeting at American Legion, Post 82: 2nd Monday of every month. Meal at 6:00 pm, Meeting at 6:30 pm. Warren F. Hoyle, American Legion, Post 82, 1628 South Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. We invite all Veterans to attend our monthly meetings. If you are a son or grandson of a veteran, you can join the Sons of the American Legion. Members of the Legion family can join the Legion Riders. To join the American Legion, the veteran holds an honorable discharge or is an active duty veteran. Spouses, daughters, granddaughters of a veteran can join the Auxiliary.

Disable American Veterans, Hosting a Veterans, Chat & Chew Session: 11:00 am until 1:00 pm, 1138 E. Marion St., Shelby, NC. The second Saturday of each month. This is an informal gathering for Veterans to chat and learn from one another about what is available in the VA System. For more info, contact Donald Schenck, 704-692-0696 or Earnest McCluney 704-4729821.

Nar-Anon Support Group: Meets 6:30 pm weekly on Tuesdays at the First Baptist Church, 120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. NarAnon is a support group for those affected by someone else’s drug addiction. We meet in the classroom off Dale St. between Sumter & Campbell St. Park on the side of the church or in the alley. Signs are posted. Call Bill, 704-692-2092 or church office, 704-482-3467.

Al-Anon Support Groups: Al-Anon Family Support Groups suppor t those who are affected by someone else’s drinking and drug use. No Name AFG meets on Mondays at Noon at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 510 W Sumter St., Shelby. Contact Kay at 704-473-4891. Shelby AFG meets on Thursdays at 8:00 pm at Shelby Presbyterian Church, 226 E. Graham St., Shelby. Contact Jann at 704-692-7688.

Support Group: Every Thursday, Depression and Anxiety peer suppor t group meets at 205 S. Washington St., Shelby. 6:30 pm until 7:30 pm upstairs. Questions text Jodi at 704-484-8998 or email qtbeauty76@gmail.com

2026 RACE SCHEDULE

Gold. WATCHES & JEWELRY: Hamilton Railway Special, Hamilton Watch Co., Hampden Open Back w/Glass Casing, Hamilton Watch Co. Open Back w/Glass Casing, Hamilton Time King/Dial Only, Hamilton Base Metal Bezel Registered No. 0739, Am. Watch Co. Waltham, Hampdon Watch Co. Canton, Ohio, Jean Pierre of Switzerland-Mechanical Movement, Illinois, Elgin, Tissot 1853-T860405A, Seiko Precision 21 Jewels, Tissot 1853- Quartz, Gotham Sport Quartz WR30M, American Waltham Watch Co., Eagle Star Geneve 17 Jewel Incablic, Success Alba Stainless Steel Japan 612268, Seiko Solar 100M, Citizen WR50 Japan 062220274, Seiko Quartz Base Metal Stainless Steel 051167, Seiko Quartz Base Metal SS 404532, Costume Jewelry. TOOLS: Miller Welder, Ladder, Yard Tools. FURNITURE: Lawyer’s Bookcase, Tables (Wood & Metal), Chairs (Wood & Metal), Collection of miniature Chairs. MISC.: Electric Bicycle (NEW), Civil War Chess Set, Stetson Hats, Bear Bow w/Arrows, Coke Collection Items, Glass & China, Metal & Wood Bench, Folding Tables, Hess Trucks.

Meet ABBEY Sweet Girl

crumbs, butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar (to taste) in medium bowl.

Meet Abbey, 3 year old, 51 pound, Coonhound Bluetick. Sweet Abbey was rescued off the side of the road by a wonderful lady rescuer. Her finder passed away recently and once again Abbey needed help. Clifford’s Army Rescue went and got her, she went to one of our amazing fosters. Abbey is shy, sweet and warms up to you quickly. She loves to talk to you! Great with other dogs, good with cats and housetrained.

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.

• Mix vanilla wafer

• Pat evenly on bottom of jelly roll pan, 15 x 10 inches.

• Sprinkle gelatin over milk in small saucepan; let stand 2 to 3 minutes.

• Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until gelatin is dissolved. Cool to room temperature.

• Beat cream cheese until fluffy in large bowl.Gradually beat in milk mixture.

• Beat in lemon juice and zest, vanilla and remaining sugar.

• Pour mixture over crust. Refrigerate until set, 3 to 4 hours.

• Before serving, decorate to look like a flag, using the blueberries for the stars, the raspberries for the stripes.

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By Gary Miller

July is the month when the fruit of sowing begins to show. Gardens begin to produce their harvest, and trees begin to reveal what has been hiding behind their leaves. For deer hunters, behind those oak leaves should be tiny acorns beginning to take shape. And since acorns are a deer’s favorite food, these signs tell us where to hang a tree stand. It’s not unusual for me this time of year, to just ride around on my side-byside looking for the trees that will be dropping acorns during the upcoming deer season. And there’s really no rhyme or reason to know which trees these will be. Sometimes I will see a large tree, thick with leaves, and think this tree will be full of acorns, only to do a deeper look and find no fruit whatsoever. It looked “fruity,” but nothing was there.

There’s a story in the Bible where Jesus saw a fig tree that looked fruity, but when He arrived at the tree, the figs were absent. He cursed the tree and it withered. He understood that while leaves do most of the work that makes fruit possible, leaves are not the fruit.

For years, when it came to the Christian life, I got the fruit wrong. I thought the fruit of a follower of Christ was church attendance, prayer, giving, Bible study, and some other disciplines. Somehow, I overlooked one of the simplest verses in the Bible. The Apostle Paul put it on the lower shelf for people like me. He said, “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Gal 5:22-23 NLT) For some reason, I always thought these verses read this way. “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: Bible reading, church attendance, prayer, and giving.” I’m not sure how I missed something so plain. Maybe I couldn’t see the fruit for the leaves. More likely however, I thought the leaves were the fruit. Let me break this down quickly. (And you can join me on Zoom on Tuesday mornings as I talk about this.) The true test of spiritual growth is not found in the leaves but in the fruit. And what the Holy Spirit is trying to produce in you and me, is not church attendance, prayer, Bible study, or giving. These are only the leaves. And while they do most of the work toward producing fruit, they are not the fruit. Let me break it down a little more. If you and I are a follower of Christ and we are not more loving, joyful, peace-filled, have more patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, than we were a few years ago, then we have mistaken the leaves for the fruit. And while others may be initially drawn to our fruity look, they will ultimately leave disappointed because our life produced nothing that satisfied.

Gary Miller gary@outdoortruths.org

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 23 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

Notable events in colonial America in 1776

The year the United States came to be was an interesting time to be alive, particularly for those living in colonial America. The American Revolutionary War began in 1776, and much of the year was marked by events stemming from that conflict. Below are some of the more notable events to take place during a year that has come to symbolize so much to generations of Americans.

• Thomas Paine publishes his 47-page pamphlet Common Sense in Philadelphia on January 10. Initially published anonymously, the pamphlet is considered a watershed moment in American history, as Paine’s easily digestible writing style appealed to the masses, helping promote his arguments that encouraged common people to fight for an egalitarian government.

• The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge takes place near Wilmington, North Carolina on February 27. The battle is

sparked when loyalists, after storming across a bridge over Moore’s Creek, attack a group of men they believe to be rebels. Though the engagement was brief, two loyalist leaders are killed, another is captured and the force is scattered. The failed attempt later complicated efforts to recruit loyalists in the area to fight.

laway girls on July 14. Days later Daniel Boone led a successful attempt to rescue his daughter and Elizabeth and Frances Callaway, who were the children of Colonel Richard Callaway, one of the first white settlers in Kentucky. A fictionalized version of the incident was included in James Fennimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans.

Webb’s Orchard

• Thomas Hickey becomes an early casualty of the burgeoning conflict between the colonies and England when the Irish-born soldier is the first to be executed by the Continental Army for “mutiny, sedition, and treachery” on June 28 in New York City. Hickey had been part of a protective detail for General George Washington but was briefly jailed for passing counterfeit money. During that brief incarceration, Hickey told a fellow prisoner he was part of a conspiracy, and reports ultimately indicated he might have been part of a plot to assassinate General Washington, which proved enough to warrant his execution.

• The Great Fire of New York destroys as much as 25 percent of all buildings in New York City as it burns through areas in lower Manhattan on September 20 and 21. The fire broke out shortly after British forces began occupying the city. While each side accused the other of arson in the aftermath of the fire, historians dispute such assertions, noting the fire likely started with burning rooftop debris before windy conditions spread the conflagration to surrounding buildings.

Two Locations! Locations!

• The Fifth Virginia Convention is held in Williamsburg between May 6 and July 5. The meeting of the Patriot legislature of Virginia ultimately leads to the declaration of Virginia as an independent state and the production of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which asserts the state’s right to reform or abolish any form of government it deems inadequate.

• An uptick incidents of violence between Native Americans and settlers in Kentucky was a ripple effect of the American Revolutionary War, and that increase in aggression was behind the capture of Jemima Boone and the Cal-

9 facts about the Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence is a document that indicates the founding principles of the United States of America. The declaration was issued by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, and announced the separation of the 13 British colonies in North America from the United Kingdom. That significance means the public may want to learn more about the Declaration of Independence. Here are some key facts.

1. While Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, it was carefully reviewed and modified by other members of the Con-

tinental Congress, notably John Adams and Benjamin Franklin.

2. The Continental Congress actually voted for independence on July 2, 1776. The written Declaration was dated July 4, 1776, but it wasn’t actually signed until August 2nd of that year. John Adams thought July 2nd would be marked as the national holiday.

3. Fifty-six delegates signed the Declaration of Independence, but not all were present on that day in August.

4. While many know that John Hancock signed first, with his prominent signature readily vis-

Tips to identify when someone is too impaired to drive

Roughly 34 people in the United States die in crashes related to drunk driving every day. That equates to one person every 42 minutes, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. MAAD Canada indicates there are about nine charges per hour for alcohol or drug-impaired driving in Canada, with an average of 215 charges and short-term suspensions daily.

Although progress has been made regarding the prevention of impaired driving, drivers under the influence continue to present a serious public health issue, killing hundreds and injuring thousands a year. Considering recreational marijuana has joined alcohol as a legal substance in many areas, time will tell how impaired driving statistics may shift now that another substance that can make driving hazardous has been legalized.

Laws are in place to keep drivers, passengers and pedestrians safe

from impaired drivers. But without a breathalyzer test, how can people know if a person is too impaired to drive? Or what if the substance causing the impairment is not alcohol? Learning more about impairment can prevent injuries and deaths.

What is BAC?

The amount of alcohol in a person’s body is measured by the weight of the alcohol in a certain volume of blood. This measurement is called the blood alcohol concentration, or BAC. Alcohol can be measured within 30 to 70 minutes after a person has had a drink, notes the NHTSA. Absorption will be slowed by food in the stomach and weight. In the United States (apart from Utah, which has a lower limit), the standard legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.08 percent. Canadian law also sets the limit at 0.08 percent.

Field sobriety tests

A range of drugs, both licit and illicit, can impair one’s ability to drive. The relationship between blood levels of drugs and driving impairment hasn’t been established for drugs other than alcohol, says the NHTSA. However, law enforcement may use Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) to assess a driver’s physical and cognitive abilities. Such tests include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, which requires the subject to follow a moving object with their eyes while an officer looks for involuntary jerking; the Walk and Turn test, in which the subject walks nine heel-to-toe steps, turns, and walks back the same way while counting; and the One-Leg Stand test. These tests help officers identify if a person is impaired.

Personal observation

Individuals may determine if a person is too impaired to drive based on various factors. Physical symptoms can include signs of poor bal-

ible, it is believed that Thomas McKean of Delaware was the last person to sign.

5. Others signed according to state delegation and in columns, starting with the northernmost state (New Hampshire) to the southernmost (Georgia).

6. About 200 copies of the Dunlap Broadside were printed. Today, 26 copies remain.

7. The original rough draft of the Declaration of Independence has been lost.

8. The Declaration of Independence was not universally accepted, and many people in the colonies remained loyal to the British monarchy and opposed American independence.

9. The Declaration of Independence has a message written on the back of it. It reads, “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.”

113 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-481-7522 • 828-289-5316 randy.mckinneyins@gmail.com

ance, stumbling or bumping into objects. Speech may be slurred, slow or at a volume different from normal. The person may complain of blurry or double vision. Cognitive symptoms also can indicate a person is too impaired to drive. Anyone making risky decisions or having trouble concentrating, focusing or remembering things likely is too impaired to drive. Err on the side of caution It is always better to be overly cautious and avoid driving if someone has consumed alcohol or used a drug that can affect the ability to operate a motor vehicle. Medications affect everyone differently and are metabolized in different ways depending on the person, which is why many medical procedures that involve sedation require the patient to get a ride home. When in doubt, it’s best for a person to grab a rideshare or taxi or have a trusted friend or family member drive them where they need to go.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or another substance risks one’s life and the lives of others. It’s important to recognize when a person might be unfit to drive and take action to prevent a dangerous situation.

OBITUARIES I N R EMEM

Shelby Shopper & Info offers the printing of obituaries in our paper as a community service and free of charge for Cleveland County residents and the immediate area. The obituary may include a picture if the image is of print quality. We request that the obituary is limited to 150 words and we will edit the obituaries due to space. The obituary will include preceded family members, surviving family members, funeral service information, memorials, and the name of the funeral home serving the family. The obituaries will not include names of grandchildren, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, or pets. We only accept obituaries from licensed funeral homes. The deadline is Friday at 1:00 pm prior to the next Thursday's publication.

Continued From Page

Please have your funeral home send us your loved ones’ obituaries to obits@shelbyinfo.com

Mrs. Ollie Lee Walker Davis, 82, of Cherryville, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Born on July 11, 1943, in McDowell County, Ollie was the daughter of the late Elijah Walter Walker and Ethel Marie Calloway Walker.

In addition to her parents, Ollie was preceded in death by the love of her life, Carroll Edward Davis, and two sisters.

She is survived by her six sisters.

A memorial service celebrating Ollie's life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Via Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.

Dennis Wayne Rayfield, age 83, of Blacksburg, SC, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026. He was born June 21, 1942, in Gaston County, to the late Otto Floyd and Maggie Levada Black Rayfield.

Mr. Rayfield served our country in the U.S. Marines. He served in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart.

In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by his children, Shannon Denise Cox and Coby Rayfield; and sister, Patrisha Hainstock.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret “Diane” Burrell Rayfield; children, Leslie

CLYDE E. DIXON

Clyde E. Dixon, 92, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026. Born July 19, 1933 in Cleveland County, he was the son of the late William Hoyle Dixon and Mattie Martha Jane Arrowood Dixon.

John F. Hines, age 89, of Cherryville, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. He was born September 2, 1936, in Lincoln County to the late George and Alice Gamble Hines.

death by his sister, Deborah Ann Hullender.

Mark is survived by his children Lauren Hullender of Revere, MA and Steven Smith of Kings Mountain, his former wife Kandice Hullender of Kings Mountain, and his grandson.

Funeral Service was held June 25, 2026, in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Dr. John Sloan officiating. Interment was at Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

Guest Register available at www.harrisfunerals.com.

Rayfield, Scott Rayfield (Pam), and Daphne Albritton; brothers, Rev. Gary Rayfield (Judy), and Keith Rayfield; and eleven grandchildren.

Funeral Services were held June 23, 2026, in the W. Cone Carpenter, Sr. Memorial Chapel, with Rev. Tony Rayfield officiating. Burial was private.

Memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project – https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com

Carpenter-Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Pettis Lee, 93, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026. She was born in Gaston County on December 19, 1932 to the late William and Gertrude Wilson Pettis.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; husband Charlie Evans Lee; two children Charles Lee and Glenda L. Haynes; brothers Edward Pettis, Lewis, Pettis, Johnny Pettis, LW (Dub) Pettis, and William Pettis Jr.; and son-in-law Rev. Thurston Jackson.

She is survived by her children, Mary (Russell) Meeks of Shelby, Helen (Thomas) Houze of Grover, Larry Lee of the home, and Wanda Jackson of Boiling Springs, SC; nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren; siblings Rev. Isaac Pettis, Carrie Pettis, Elder Matthew (Debbie) Pettis, Mattie Nelson, Laura (William) Matthews; sistersin-law Willie Lou Pettis, Sarah Pettis, Jesse Parrish, and Carol Woodard; and brotherin-law Samuel (Brenda) Lee. Funeral services were held June 13, 2026, at Eskridge Grove Baptist Church. Burial took place at the church cemetery.

Clyde was also preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Hartman Dixon, his brothers Ernest and Grady Dixon, and his sister Leola Dixon Bell.

He is survived by his sons: Wayne Dixon (Regina), Darryl Dixon (Carol), and W. Eric Dixon, all of Kings Mountain; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral service was held June 24, 2026, at Second Baptist Church of Kings Mountain with Reverends Dennis Pruitt and Zach Bardsley officiating. Interment was at Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org Guest Register available at www.harrisfunerals.com.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is serving the family.

Mr. Hines served our country in the U.S. Army. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Ann Gantt Hines; a grandson; and siblings, George Hines, Jr., Donald Hines, Linda Gantt, and Jane Schmelzer.

He is survived by his children, Jeff Hines and wife, Beth, Teresa Hines Gardo and husband, Brent, and Greg Hines and wife, Karen; five grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; two great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Brenda Gantt; and brotherin-law, Jerry Gantt (Lisa).

Funeral services were June 22, 2026, at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Zack Christy officiating. Burial followed at City Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St. Cherryville, NC 28021.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is serving the family.

ORENTHAL JAMES

Mr. Orenthal James (OJ) Hicks, 57, of Forest City, NC, passed away on Monday, June 8, 2026. He was born on December 19, 1968 to the late Donald Ray Hicks and Naomi Cumberlander Hicks in Kannapolis, NC.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents; and mother-in-law, Nellie Mae Shears.

away on Monday, June 15, 2026. He was the son of the late Robert Surratt and Azelee Muldrow Surratt and was born on April 25, 1962 in Cleveland County, NC. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Robert Surratt, Jr. and a sister, Elsie Webber. He is survived by his son, Ray Louis ‘Bama’ Surratt and daughter, Erica Jones, both of Shelby, NC; sisters, Lillie Parks, Amanda Parks, Dorice Watson, and Fay Brown, all of Shelby, NC, and Lisa Early (Phillip) of Hickory, NC; and six grandchildren.

Funeral services were held June 19, 2026, at Hopper’s Chapel Baptist Church. Burial was at Sunset Cemetery.

LINDSAY PHILIP HAMM

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com Carpenter-Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

Mr. Hicks is survived by his daughter Keyonia Zhane Hicks; brother, Ray Hicks; ex-wife, Kenya Hicks; and sister-in-law, Eugenia Wilson.

SARAH ELIZABETH

Sarah Elizabeth "Betty" Potter, 87, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026. She was born in Moultrie, GA, on August 25, 1938, to Fletcher and Pauline Kenney. She is survived by her husband, Jim Potter of Kings Mountain; daughter, Edie Brucker of Orlando, FL; son Tom Potter (Sharon) of Lowell, NC; son Kenney Potter (Heather) of Charlotte, NC; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A service to celebrate Betty's life will be announced by the family at a later date. Guest Register available at www.harrisfunerals.com.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is serving the family.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not

David Mark Hullender, 64, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on June 18, 2026. Born March 27, 1962 in Cleveland County, he was the son of the late David Ray Hullender and Margaret Ann Davidson Hullender. He was also preceded in

Funeral services were held June 16, 2026, at S.T. Enloe Memorial Chapel. Burial was at Young’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; Titus 3:3-6

Lindsay Philip Hamm, 65, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026. He was born on December 7, 1960, in Cleveland County to Josane Degois Hamm and the late John William Hamm, Jr. Lindsay is survived by his mother, Josane Degois Hamm, twin sister Linda Hamm, and brother Michel Hamm, all of Kings Mountain. The family held a private interment at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery in Blacksburg, SC. In accordance with Lindsay's wishes, no other services will be held. Guest Register available at www.harrisfunerals.com. Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is serving the family.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. John 16:13

Continued To Page 15

Continued From Page 14

Ms. Shirley Marie Surratt Williams, 64, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026 in Shelby, NC. She was born on December 28, 1961 in Cleveland County, NC to the late William Surratt and the late Carrie Twitty Surratt.

In addition to her parents, Marie was preceded in death by her brothers, Albert Surratt and Douglas Surratt.

She is survived by her children: Kenneth Montrell Williams (Ashley Williams) of Elmira, NY, Aldrick Kamal Watson (Carmella Sarinana) of Lincolnton, NC; sisters: Barbara Surratt of Cleveland, OH and Helena Surratt Toms (Chuck) of Lexington, NC; brothers Raymond Surratt and Ivan Surratt, both of Shelby, NC; and nine grandchildren.

Funeral services were held June 20, 2026, at Palmer Grove Baptist Church. Burial took place at the church cemetery.

EARWOOD

Robert Daniel Earwood, 85, of Shelby, passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026. Born on April 10, 1941, in Cleveland County, Robert was a son of the late Morris Shuford Earwood and Annie Lee Jackson Earwood.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson; his brothers:

OBITUARIES

Julius Earwood and Charlie Earwood; and his sisters: Martha Sue Clary, Jessie Lankford, and Linda Bailey. He is survived by his wife, Diane Earwood; two sons, Robert Keith Earwood of Shelby and Mitchell Thad Earwood and wife, Kim, of Shelby; his sister, Patricia Ann Cody of Shelby; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

A funeral service was held June 23, 2026, at Double Shoals Baptist Church with Dr. Brian Johnson officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Double Shoals Baptist Church, 318 Old Mill Road, Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences can be made at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.

Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, NC is serving the family.

GRIFFITH BYERS

Barbara Ann Griffith Byers passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026. She was born on May 6, 1942, in Vineland, NJ.

She is survived by her four children: Fredrick Hunter and wife Sandy of Mays Landing, NJ; Kimberly Hunter and Eric Dost of Hildebran, NC; Barbara Arrowood and husband Kevin of Blacksburg, SC; and John Reed and wife Mahalia of Rock Hill, SC; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and sisters: Betty Edwards of Mays Landing, NJ; Elayne Renner of Millville, NJ; Linda Griffith of Kings Mountain, NC; and Brenda Buller of Kings Mountain, NC.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick Griffith Jr. and Ida Elizabeth Albertson Griffith, her brother

Fredrick Griffith III, sister Peggy Marie Williams, and her husband Charles Herman Byers.

A funeral service was held June 25, 2026, at New Hope Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Russ Bradley. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc. is serving the family.

PEARSON

Billy Donald Pearson, of Shelby, NC, passed away on June 13, 2026. He was born on October 29, 1936.

Billy Donald Pearson is survived by his wife, Elaine Humphries Pearson; their children: a son Steve Pearson and his wife Angie, two daughters Jennifer Wess and her husband Brian, and Kim Costner and her husband Keith, all of Shelby, NC; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sherry Pearson and his siblings: Obie Pearson, Gerald Pearson, Danny Pearson, Irvin Pearson, Thelma Barnette, Betty Jean Cochran, and Doris Bright.

A funeral service was held June 19, 2026, at Flint Hill Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Keith Dixon and Rev. Shane Kirby. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc. is serving the family.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

CLONTZ

Freddie Hoyle Clontz, 82, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. He was born on March 6, 1943, in Marion, NC.

Mr. Clontz served our country in the U.S. Marines.

He is survived by his children: Duane Carroll and his wife Christy, Chris Carroll and his wife Wendy, and Brian Clontz and Julie Cornwell; his brother, Edward Clontz and wife Brenda; his sisters Jeanette Rhom and Linda Mann, along with his brother-in-law Clifford; and ten grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ed Clontz; his mother, Faye Moody Clontz; his brothers Ronald "Butch" Clontz and Alonzo Clontz; and his sister Lanatte Williams; and his son, Jimmy Carroll.

A funeral service was held June 26, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church, Shelby, NC. Burial took place at Sunset Cemetery, Shelby, NC.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc. is serving the family.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Silias and Kimmie Durbin; his wife, Marie Durbin, and a grandson.

He is survived by his daughters, Tammy Wright husband Danny and Doloris Newton husband Michael; sons, Lee Durbin wife Lisa and Kenneth Durbin; twelve grandchildren; several greatgrandchildren; and his sister, Linnie Bell.

Memorial service was held June 9, 2026, at Friendship Methodist Church in Fallston, expertly guided by Pastor Wes Brown.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc. is serving the family.

Rev. Roger William Webb, 82, of Shelby, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. He was born on March 28, 1944, in Cleveland County, North Carolina.

He is survived by his wife, Marie Webb; his sons, Steven Webb and wife Debbie, Roger Webb Jr. and wife Krista, and Jason Webb; his daughters, Tabatha Turner and husband Tim, Angel Webb, Leann Waldron and husband Collin; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his sisters Virginia Causby and husband Jerry, Margaret Henson, Gail Williams and husband Tony, Kathy Moore and husband Ronnie, Connie Hurdt and husband Billy.

of Lawndale, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026. He was born on December 17, 1949, in Shelby, NC.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Edith Webb, his daughter Gwendolyn Webb, and sister Kaye Saults.

A memorial service was held June 26, 2026, at Boiling Springs Baptist Church, led by Rev. Keith McKinney and Keith Dixon. A private grave-

side service was held by his family.

Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center is serving the family. www. claybarnette.com

Robert Richmond Randolph, age 86, of Bessemer City, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. He was born May 4, 1940, in Polk County to the late Mozelle and Avery Randolph.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Faye and a grandson.

Robert is survived by his daughter and son-inlaw, Rebecca and Mark Lamphiear of Gastonia, NC; daughter-in-law and son-in-law, Lana and Kelvin Chanarkasingh of Hickory Grove, SC; nine grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Neil Breedlove of Stanley, NC.

A Celebration of Life was held June 28, 2026, at Carpenter-Porter Funeral and Cremation Services. Memorials be made to Hospice at www. Carolinacaring.org/our-foundation, or to a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com Carpenter-Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:37-38

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Steven Lee Greene, 76, of Ellenboro, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

He was the son of the late Willford L. "Jack" Greene and Mary Ann Steyer Greene.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Dodson Greene; his son, Christopher Steven Greene and his wife Ashley; his daughter, Allyson Greene Mott and her husband Bill, all

OBITUARIES I N R EMEMBRANCE

of Ellenboro; and two grandchildren.

A Memorial Service was held June 28, 2026 at Walls Baptist Church. Rev. Jerry Causby and Rev. Jimmy Black will officiate. Urn burial followed in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Walls Baptist Church, 749 Walls Church Road, Bostic, NC 28018 or VIA Hospice, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

STEPHANIE JANE CLAYTON

Stephanie Jane Clayton, 55, of Huntersville, NC, passed away on June 25, 2026. She was born July 15, 1970 in Campbell County, KY.

Stephanie is survived by her husband, Steven

Edison; parents: Charles William Patterson, Jr. and Suzanne Schrader Patterson of Burnsville, NC; children: Dylan Clayton and Victoria Clayton, both of Owensboro, KY, and Allie Edison and Katelyn Edison, both of Huntersville; step-children: Sarah Savoia (Mike), and Michelle Edison, all of Huntersville; mother-inlaw: Gloria Roper of Kings Mountain, NC; three grandchildren; and sister: Erin Patterson of Hagerstown, MD.

Service details are forthcoming and will be announced at a later date.

Guest Register available at www.harrisfunerals.com.

Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is serving the family.

GRASSROOTS

L OCAL C HURCHES E

First Baptist Church

Wednesday, July 1

What: 250th Concert Featuring Doyle Dykes & Ice Cream Social

When: 6:00 pm, July 1.

Where: First Baptist Church,120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC.

More Info: Celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday with a FREE concert featuring talented guitarist Doyle Dykes. Concert will be in our Sanctuary. Afterwards, enjoy a moment of fellowship and ice cream in our Dover Activities Building (Gym). Everything is free... concert and ice cream too.

Thursday, July 2

What: Bostic Freedom Fest

When: 6:00 pm, July 2.

Where: Concord Baptist Church, 720 Old US 74, Bostic, NC.

More Info: Live music, food, K9 Demo, kids activities including a mega water balloon fight, historical artifacts and more. The evening will end with a fireworks show. Join us as we celebrate Faith, Family and Freedom!

Sunday, July 12

What: Praise and Worship

When: 6:00 pm, July 12.

Where: Fallston Baptist Church, 109 Circle Dr., Fallston, NC.

More Info: Join us in the Family Life Center at Fallston Baptist Church for an evening of Praise and Worship with the gospel bluegrass group “ The Golden Valley Crusaders”. Admission is free, but we ask that you please bring a non- perishable food item to help stock our Community Food Pantry. Contact the church office for any questions at 704-538-7161.

Sunday, July 12 - 16

What: #KidsConnect VBS!

When: 5:00 pm, July 12-16.

Where: First Baptist Church, 120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC.

More Info: Wake up those neurons, get those synapses flowing, and jump on the wavelength of God’s love at #KidsConnect VBS! Kids will find a place of belonging, relate to trusted adults, make new friends, and follow Jesus’ example of making room for all. Each night includes worship and drama, Bible study, art and science explorations, brain-building challenges, and active games. Daily take-home activities encourage the whole family to connect through faith and build community with friends of all ages. Call the church office at (704) 482-3467 for more information. We can’t wait to #Connect with you this summer!

TO ADVERTISE YOUR CHURCH OR BUSINESS CALL 704-484-1047

To Announce Your Church Event, Email Your Announcement to: events@shelbyinfo.com CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS & CHURCH DISPLAY AD DEADLINE: FRIDAY, 3 PM PRIOR TO THURSDAY PUBLICATION

Announcements

TEFAP (Commodities): 1:00pm until 2:00pm every Monday & third Tuesday. Green Bethel Bapt. Church, 120 Bethel Ave., Shelby, NC. More infor: Jennie Poston 704-434-2931

Nar-Anon Support Group: Meets 6:30 pm weekly on Tuesdays at the First Baptist Church, 120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC. Nar-Anon is a support group for those affected by someone else’s drug addiction. We meet in the classroom of Dale St., between Sumter and Campbell St. Park on the side of the church or in the alley. Signs are posted. Call Bill, 704692-2092 or the church office, 704-482-3467.

Al-Anon Family Groups Support: Al-Anon Family Support Groups support those who are affected by someone else’s drinking and drug use. No Name AFG meets on Mondays at 12 noon at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 510 W Sumter St., Shelby. Contact Kay at 704-473-4891. Shelby AFG meets on Thursdays at 8:00 pm at Shelby Presbyterian Church, 226 E. Graham St., Shelby. Contact Jann at 704-692-7688. Support Group: Every Thursday, Depression and Anxiety Peer support group. Meets at 205 S. Washington St., Shelby, NC. From 6:30 pm until 7:30pm upstairs. Questions text Jodi at 704-484-8998 or email qtbeauty76@gmail.com.

Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:16–17

DISTRIBUTION DRIVERS NEEDED

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SUDOKU

CLUES ACROSS 1. __ chat

5. Statue near the Pyramids

11. A process to change the look 14. Herb

15. Think about excessively 18. Bass vocal part 19. Supreme Allied Cmdr. of NATO

21. A major division of geological time 23. New Zealand parrot 24. Cognitive contents 28. Lump of yarn 29. Atomic #109 30. Let go of 32. Indian title of respect 33. Whereabouts unknown

35. Electronic data processing

36. Drivers’ licenses count 39. Snakelike fishes

41. They precede C 42. Popular personal computers

44. Intermediate community stage in ecological succession 46. Wings 47. Indicates position 49. Pleasantly smooth or soft

52. Jeweled headdress

In slow tempo

__ Falls

Reassertions

CLUES DOWN

Corporate executive

A plant used for flavoring food

Opinion or belief

Sheep in their second year

Intensities of sound

Indicates support for

Expression of laughter

OJ trial judge 9. Pointed ends of pens

10. True bugs genus

12. Lawyers argue theirs

13. Body parts 16. Closes tightly

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

17. World Heritage site in Nigeria

20. Islamic calendar month 22. Commercial 25. “Westworld” actor Harris

26. They __

27. Religious guilds

Woman (French)

Parts per billion (abbr.)

Brew

Spiritual leader

Indigo bush

Burn with a hot liquid

Older citizen

Scad fish genus

Morning

Line passing through the center (abbr.)

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

YOU’VE GOTTA TRY CLECO

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

SHEILA’S DECOR & COLLECTABLES OPENING SOON!

9am-3pm. Friday 7/10 & Saturday 7/11. Southside Market in Shelby. 1316 S Lafayette St. Decor of all kinds. nice used furniture, antiques & lots more. Something for everyone.

WE WANT YOUR OLD GOLD, SILVER, COINS & CASE POCKET KNIVES. Top $$$$ Paid!!! JAKE’S KNIVES & COINS located at 1008 S. Lafayette St., Shelby 704-6006996 or (704) 300-6236

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANCHOR DOWN RESELL... BOX DEALS! Grand Opening July 6-10. 4th of July Special! Boxes starting at only $5. Open Monday through Friday 10am4pm. Look for exciting sales to come! Follow us on Facebook: AnchorDown Resell. 155 West Main St., Forest City.

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

CARPORTS

1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880

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 704-297-0103

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

EMPLOYMENT

LATTIMORE BAPTIST

CHURCH SEEKING Children’s/Youth Director. Send resume to lbcsecretary2016@ gmail.com

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

WILLING TO PAY. Need someone who can build plastic model planes or cars & paint them nice. Please text. (704) 5386807

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

CUSTOM CABINETS & WOODWORK. Over 25 years Experience. Michael McKinstry. Custom Woodwork, Cabinets, Light Plumbing, Sheetrock, Landscaping. “Cleveland County_ Veteran Owned.” (203) 5125503

BROTHERS N ARMS Before you call another...Call Brothers! Need your yard cleaned or home looking right again? We got you covered! Lawn care, Tree cutting & removal, Leaf blowing, Pressure washing or Home maintenance. Call “Z” today for a free estimate! 704648-6058.

HYDRAULIC CYLINDER REPAIR. Skid Steer, Wreckers, Rollbacks, Splitters, Tractors, etc. 30 years experience. Shelby, NC. (Joe) (704) 692-1097

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. 704-692-4449 (704) 692-4449 stevenmarlow952@ gmail.com

SHIPMAN’S MASONRY. Small jobs: underpens, outside fireplace, patios, retaining wallsbrick, block and stone. 40 years experience. Call/text (863) 5321587

BUSINESS SERVICES

HANDYMAN SERVICES. SPECIALIZING IN MINOR

HOME REPAIRS in the Kings Mountain, Shelby & Gastonia areas. Plumbing repair, install light fixtures & ceiling fans, mailbox installation, furniture assembly, picture hanging, replace smoke detectors & batteries, change door locks, kitchen cabinets refinishing and much much more. Call or text to see if we can help. Honest & reasonable prices. (910) 4742374

CLEVELAND COUNTY GA-

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

DO YOU NEED HELP??? Offering painting, debris removal, cleaning, pressure washing, garage clean-ups and more. Specials for landlords. Also offering parking lot striping. Reasonable rates. Rutherford & Cleveland County areas. Call Thomas (828) 429-9276

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

FOR SALE

SAMSUNG WASHER & DRYER. Less than 2 years old and used very little. $400 for the matching set. (704) 284-0248

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

TWO STEEL TABLES. $100 each OBO. Nice heavy duty steel tables. One has wood top, one has a formica top. 48x30x29 the other one 24x48x33. Can send pictures. (704) 300-1818 kim_hopper@ bellsouth.net

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. 704434-6389, (704) 473-0867

ULINE ROLLING TOOL CART

$75. Perfect Size! Also have a larger one for $100. (704) 3001818 kim_hopper@bellsouth. net

CARPORTS & GARAGES.

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

MEN’S CRUISER BICYCLE

$40. New Men’s Sunset Cruiser

$25. Three DVD players, new, $30. for all. (828) 782-7221

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

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

846-5400

YARD SALES

CLEVELAND COUNTY

MULTI-FAMILY YARD

SALE. Saturday, July 4th, 2026 from 8:00AM-1:00PM. Furniture, kitchenware, household decor, cottage core decor, clothing, shoes, vintage items. A little bit of everything. 2119 South Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC 28152

BIG YARD SALE. Friday, July 3rd & Saturday, July 4th, 7am2pm (Both Days). Furniture, Home Decor, Plus size women’s clothes, electrical light for outside, camera for outside, car camera, lawnmower, cedar chest, WWE Mania. 120 Dixie Dr., Shelby, NC 28152

CHECK OUT OUR YARD

SALE!!! Saturday, July 4th, 2026 from 7:00AM-12:00PM; 913 Wright St., Shelby, NC 28150. Children’s Clothes Girls size 6 sm. & Boys size 10 Lg. Women’s clothing size Lg. & Med. Shoes, T-Shirts, Kid’s Toys, Summer & Pool Toys, Household items, Golf Bag, Honda CRV Place Mats, Scope. Many more items too many to list.

BUILDINGS

1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880

HEAVY DUTY PLASTIC BARRELS $20 Each. (704) 3001818

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Fire pit wood packs-$3 each. That’s more than half price. $7 store price. Delivery available. 704435-3970.

TIRES AND RIMS FOR SALE. 4-235/40/18-Goodyear with 200 miles-$350, 5-245/75/17Jeep Rims & low miles-$400, 1 Full set Factory Jeep Floor Mats-4 doors-$70. 1 Full set Factory with rear mats for Ford Edge-$80. Call Eddie Kee 704472-1000 or 704-472-0057.

14 BOURBON RED TURKEYS 4 weeks old, $10 each, Call 864-838-9193, Do Not Text. 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) 2455895

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

TRAILERS • TRAILERS • TRAILERS. Utility, Enclosed, Dump, Gooseneck, Equipment, Aluminum. Car or Tractor Haulers. “All In Stock!” Parts Department, Service Department “One Stop Shop!” J Johnson Sales. 2690 Hwy. 221, Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

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

BRAND NEW STILL IN BOX. Drive Silver Sport 2. Manual Wheel Chair. $90. (828) 4479755

CRYPTS FOR SALE Spaces at Cleveland Memorial Park. Lawn crypt for 2. Preinstalled vaults for 2 plus bronze plates for 2. $10,000 value, Selling for $3,000. 704-692-4894.

HORSE BARNS OR LIVESTOCK RUN IN SHEDS. Barns - Grading, Concrete & Electrical Work If Needed, OR Just Install in Your Pasture. “Large Onsite Display!” J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221

FARM & GARDEN

HAY, SQUARE BALES. $4 to

FOR SALE

STEEL BUILT BUILDINGS, CARPORTS, GARAGES, BARNS or WAREHOUSES.

Engineered Drawings. “If You Have Vacant Land.... This Can Be The Perfect Source For Rental Income!” One of North Carolina’s Largest Site Displays. We do grading, concrete, plumbing, etc. J Johnson Sales 2690 Hwy 221 S. Forest City, NC. (828) 245-5895

METAL ROOFING

1705 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 704-482-7880

NEW, USED, BANK REPO’S BUILDINGS, TRAILERS & CARPORTS. (828) 245-5895

FITQUEST EXERCISE BIKE

$100. PRICE REDUCED!

$75.00 Compact exercise bike with adjustable seat and digital display. Plenty of time to get in shape BEFORE the holiday season! Hot, humid, or rainy day? No excuses! Hop on this comfortable bike in the comfort of your home and pedal away while you watch a movie on TV or read a book! Give a gift for better health for the whole family. Local pickup only. (770) 6874616 debbie.hinnant@gmail. com

LOST & FOUND

AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER LOST Male, Named Damien. Red with White Spot on Chest. 6 yrs old, Reward: $500. 704-915-1948 or 704820-2865. Email: future7773@ gmail.com.

WANT TO BUY

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

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

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

NEED TO BUY SMALL CAR. Under 100,000 miles. Also need HOUSEKEEPER once a month. Reasonable Rate. (980) 880-7324 (980) 880-7324

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

$7. Also 200+ Bales Horse Hay, $8. Cut in Spring before rain came. Under Shelter. 704-4181744.

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

BOATS

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

PETS & LIVESTOCK

MALSHI PUPPIES FOR SALE. Come’s with Health Guarantee, Health Records, Sample of food. Very Playful and well socialized. Beautiful. Located in Sylva, NC. Website at www. toosweetkennels.com (828) 586-1842 toosweetkennels@ aol.com

CHIWEENIE PUPPIES. 2 males. Ready for new home. First set of shots and dewormed every two weeks. $400. each. (704) 466-6983

PUPPIES: SHIH TZU TERRIER. Small, cute and cuddly puppies ready after July 4th! Dam is white and gray, about 10lbs. Brown terrier dad. 4 females and 1 male all brown or gray with white markings. 828292-3001 shots and dewormed $100 each. (828) 292-3001 rsutak26@hotmail.com

SEVEN MALE GERMAN

SHEPHERD PUPPIES. $500 ea. Wormed & 1st shots. Parents on site. 704-214-0693.

MALSHI MALE PUPPIES FOR SALE. All Males Born 4/28/26. $1500. See pictures at Website www.toosweetkennels.com; (828) 586-1842 toosweetkennels@aol.com

MORKIE PUPPIES FOR SALE. Sweet, adorable little girls. Wonderful friends and companions. Born April 24,2026. $550. 828-208-9086.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

2 CUTE SMALL KITTENS. Looking for forever home. Free to loving inside home. (704) 473-5744

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. 3 males, 2 females. 8 weeks old. $400 each. 1 Chiweenie puppy, male. 20 weeks old. $100 OBO. (828) 755-8042

BEAUTIFUL YORKIEPOO

PUPS FOR SALE!! I have 2 male and 2 female Yorkiepoo pups. Mom is black toy poodle and Dad is chocolate Yorkie. Pups were born May 23. Will be ready to go home with you on July 18th. Tails are docked, dewclaws removed. $800. There is a $200 deposit, the remaining $600 due at pickup. (864) 425-8910 angel1226a@gmail.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

POLYDACTYL MALE KITTENS. ERNEST HEMINGWAY KITTENS FOR SALE TO GOOD HOMES. THEY HAVE HAD THEIR SHOTS AND WORMED. THEY ARE POLYDACTYL MEANING THEY HAVE THUMBS AND LOOK LIKE THEY ARE WEARING MITTENS. 2 STRIPED AND 2 BLACKS AND ONE WHITE, ALL MALES. $250. TEXT 530–520-5135 (530) 520-5135

CARS & TRUCKS

2005 HYUNDAI TUCSON SPORT V6. Excellent condition. $3,000. Check engine light is on. 704-477-3460.

2002 BUICK CENTURY 107,000 miles. Very clean, well maintained, everything works, no leaks. $5,500. (704) 4663135

2012 CHEVROLET IMPALA Black. low mileage. $8,800. 770-712-0377.

1992 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Convertible. 119,000 miles, 6 speed transmission. Excellent Condition. Ready to drive. $10,000. (207) 573-8786

2013 CHEVROLET CAMA-

RO V6. 174K miles, new paint, NC title, completely checkedready to go! $14,900 OBO. 1999 Chevy S-10 Ext Cab, ice cold air, 77K miles, $3500 firm. ALSO...WANTED 150 JUNK CARS & TRUCKS WEEKLY. Paying top dollar! (864) 2513967

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

CARS & TRUCKS

2020 FORD FUSION SE Eco

Boost. 74K miles, $7500. WANT TO BUY: 2010 or 2011 Ford Ranger Reg. Cab. No motor or transmission. (828) 2873820

REAL ESTATE

CLEVELAND COUNTY

WE OFFER LAND HOME

PACKAGES in Cleveland, Rutherford, and surrounding counties... with little to no money down with approved financing! HEATH’S HOME ZONE

703-5 King Street, Kings Mountain, NC (754) 663-9663

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

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

FOR RENT IN GROVER, NC.

3 bedroom, 2 full bathroom, Mobile Home. All appliances included plus great room. Safe, Quiet Neighborhood. No drinking, Partying or Loud Music and No Pets. $1300 month plus $1300 deposit. $50 applicationtion fee. Available July 1, 2026. (704) 466-5189

APARTMENT FOR RENT. 5

RM/2 BR Apartment. Stove/ refrig. Adults only. No pets. 515 W. Sumter, Shelby. $660. per month. Call (704) 487-9622

716 PARK AVE, SHELBY. Duplex, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom. Rent $925, Deposit $925. Application Fee $25. 704-2144180.

813 THIRD STREET, KINGS MTN. 4 Bedrom, 2 Bath. House. Rent 1895, Deposit $1895. Application Fee $25. 704-2144180.

FOR RENT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

335-B GOLD STREET. Shelby, NC. Duplex, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom. Rent $975, Deposit $975. Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

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

103 NEW BETHEL CHURCH ROAD. Lawndale, NC. House. Rent $1595, Deposit $1595. Application Fee $25. 704-2144180.

1424 FREDERICK STREET. Shelby, NC. House, 3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom. Rent $1295, Deposit $1295. Application Fee $25. 704-214-4180.

118 OAK DRIVE, LAWNDALE, NC. 3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom House. Rent $1275, Deposit $1275. Application Fee $25, 704-214-4180.

109 PRUITT DRIVE,