By Loretta Cozart

The fourteenth year of the Cleveland County Potato Project is nearing its mid-point, so the
Herald checked in with Doug Sharp (co-founder of the Potato Project) on the progress. Below is what he shared:
White potatoes were planted in late March and will be ready for harvest in a couple of weeks. White potatoes were planted in partnership with Travis Mangum Associates, North Shelby School, and local Civitan Clubs. Mangum Associates have pretty much cared for this planting.
Sweet potato responsibility has shifted toward Norman Sellers and a group of people who share a passion for feeding people. These are long-time growers of agricultural products, All had occupations, but are mostly retired. Their zeal to be good stewards led them to the Potato Project.
For the first time since the pandemic, assistance is coming from the
Baptist Work Camp in Shelby. Use of these volunteers will help reduce the cost of labor, but volunteers are still needed, and wanted.
Deer have become a growing threat to the Potato Projects’ sweet potatoes. Last year two sites were completely wiped out by these creatures. Dogs from a nearby residence prevented a total wash out. If anyone knows a barking dog that would like to live in a sweet potato patch for the next three months, the help would be appreciated.
Doug shared, “We always need contributions. If you would like to contribute, you may do so by mailing a check to Doug Sharp, 107 Quail Hollow Drive, Kings Mtn, 28086, NC. Be assured that all monies will be used to feed needy people in Cleveland County.”

On Thursday, June 15, from 1 – 3 p.m., City of Kings Mountain Special Events welcomes their friend Ross the Balloon Guy - Charlotte’s #1 Balloon Twister, as they bring the National Foam Party Day to Patriots Park featuring Music, Concessions and loads of FOAM. The fun begins at 1:00 p.m.
Then mark your calendar for Friday, June 16 when City of Kings Mountain brings Disney's "Into the Woods” to big the big screen at Patriots Park for movie night. Sigmon Theatrical brings the characters to life at 6 p.m. and the movie follows promptly at 7 p.m. Bring your family and friends for this special family summer event.

By Loretta Cozart

On May 20, American Legion 155, accepted the mission to draw attention to veteran suicides and encourage those hurting to reach out for help. The American Legion opened their Post home to all veterans, those struggling with mental health issues and those who wanted to support them by drawing attention to veteran’s suicide during their Veterans Walk and Roll event.
Event organizer Chris Pullen said, “We made this a community event, because no matter what organization you belong to, you need a home that is always open when you need it. No matter how ‘military’ you are,  your family means the world to you. They are the ones who support you behind closed doors.”
“What we learned during this nine-day event was that, out there, it isn’t just veterans who are suffering with thoughts of suicide… it is everybody.” Pullen continued, “Suicide affects veterans and their families the hardest and events like this one gives veteran and their families the opportunity to talk to others, to talk with Mission 22, and other support groups.”
Pullen is quick to acknowledge that he didn’t do this event alone. The NC Ambassador of Mission 22, Kevin Evans, along with American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) members Amanda Smith and Kathy Hambright gave of their time and talents, along with countless members of America Legion Post 155 and ALA Unit 155, to shine the light on veteran suicide and the need to support veterans.
The event resulted after lengthy discussions on ways to make American Legion Post 155 more visible to veterans within the community and allow them to express their concern for the welfare of veterans in our community. To do this, they utilized Deal Street Walking Track for 22 hours a day for nine days. Those numbers are symbolic: 22 represents the number of veterans who die each day to suicide, and nine days represents the end a cycle.
   “Evans noted, “At the walking track, the blessing was that the track was kept in motion 22 hours a day. Just to see the veterans who didn’t have the ability to walk come out and participate was amazing. If they couldn’t walk, they were pushed around the track, enabling them to also accept the mission and contribute. As a result, those veterans were able to fully participate.”
   Other groups were invited to join with American Legion Post 155 in this effort: American Legion Post 82, Department of NC District 23, Mission 22, Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Combat Veterans, and Disabled American Veterans, among others.
   During the event dubbed ‘Veterans Walk and Roll’, 817 individuals walked the track. Of those participating, 192 vets walked 1407 laps, and 625 civilians walked 2681 laps, for a total of 1551.6 miles. Veterans from across the nation participated within their own communities and reported laps that were included in those numbers. Laps were reported from PA, Missouri, Tennessee, Florida, New Jersey, Alabama, Alaska, and the Bahamas.
   Those who participated at the track were invited to join the legionnaires in the evening for karaoke, bingo, haircuts, and conversation. Raffles and other fundraisers were held to raise funds to pay for the events and meals during the evenings. Bands played at the Post and at other American Legion Posts.
   Due to inclement weather, the planned motorcycle poker run had to be cancelled, so the legionnaires had to pivot. Through it all, they prevailed. “In spite of the bad weather throughout the week, the rain didn’t stop anyone from walking for 22 hours a day during the nine-day event,” Pullen said.
   “Every year, Mission 22 organizes a walk nationwide to support veterans and draw attention to suicide awareness. Next year, I want to incorporate that event into this one,’ Evans shared. “Even if we only hand out one pamphlet to one person, we consider it ‘mission accomplished.’ What Chris Pullen and Post 155 have done is far above the mission. He is super dedicated. I give him all the respect in the world.”
  A highlight of the event was a visit by The Saluting Marine, Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers, who participated in the event. He is a motivational speaker, comrade, and supporter of this special event in Kings Mountain. And Pullen shared that Chambers enjoyed singing karaoke, as well.
  “We learned a lot, and we still have a lot left to learn. American Legion Post 155 accepted the mission and helped the community understand the need to support our veterans, because they served when asked. Now is the community’s time to support these veterans in their hour of need. Pullen concluded. “Just because the event is over, doesn’t mean the mission has ended. The mission is alive, and this mission will continue walk for our veterans.”

Cleveland Community College is excited to announce Shelby Police Department’s retired chief (and Kings Mountain native) Jeff Ledford, has joined the Yeti family. Ledford assumed the role of director of safety and security at the College on June 1. “One of the draws to being here is the reputation of the College,” said Ledford, “and the team that I have the opportunity to work with.”
Ledford retired from the Shelby Police Department on March 31, after
serving  the  community 30 years as an officer, including 15 as chief. The Kings Mountain native and current resident has always focused on community and relationships. Starting his next chapter at CCC, he said, allows him to serve in a different way. “It’s a great opportunity to continue serving the community. The College is a place where I can continue to use my relationships and experience, just on a different level.”
He will lead a small team of part-time security officers, and work with Shelby Police Officer Ryan Laughlin who serves as the College’s SRO.
“We are focused on the safety and security of the students and employees of Cleveland Community College,” said CCC President Dr. Jason Hurst. “That’s why I’m excited to welcome former chief Ledford to our team. His knowledge and experience will be a great asset to our efforts.”

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Farmer’s Market had a good turnout on Saturday, June 3. More than fifteen vendors participated, many from Kings Mountain.
Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the event shortly after 10 a.m. as those who worked so hard to bring this event to Kings Mountain celebrated. Sponsors for this event include Cleveland County, City of Kings Mountain, The Davidson Association, Kings Mountain Rotary Club, Albemarle Corporation, and NC State Extension.
The Davison Association event organizer Tamra Moody spoke of the day saying, “I think today has been amazing. We’ve had a lot of support and we hope to see the farmer’s market continue to grow moving forward.”
Mayor Scott Neisler said, “It is amazing what the Davidson Association has been able to do here. They took the ball and ran with it and I know this farmer’s market is just going to continue to grow.”
KM Tourism Development Authority Board Director Ellis Noell shared his thoughts saying, “It is great that a partnership has been built here between the Foothills Farmer’s Market, the county, and the Davidson Association. When groups work together, the outcome is so much better because we are working together as a team. I seen nothing but success moving forward.”
While crops like corn and tomatoes aren’t quite ripe yet, a good variety of herbs, mushrooms, grass-fed beef, flowers, coffee, plant starts, honey, pickled okra, pimento cheese, decorative plants, among other items were for sale. The Kings Mountain Farmer’s Market continues every Saturday, June through August, from 8 a.m. until noon.
   The farmer’s market is held downtown at the old Wells Fargo parking lot owned by Phil and Sandie Dee who support Shop Local.
   Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain held its Memorial Day
Observance on Monday, May 29 at American Legion Post 155 located at 613 E. Gold Street at 10 a.m. Due to rain, the observance was taken indoors.
The event began with a Piper Prelude by the Loch Norman Pipers, followed by the Presentation of Colors by Boy Scout Troop 92 Honor Guard. Dr. John Howze, Pastor of People’s Baptist Church offered in Invocation. Pastor Gabriel Thombs lead those gathered in the Pledge of Allegiance. Vocalist Sharon Robbs sang the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Mayor Scott Neisler welcomed everyone and reminded them of the importance of remembering those who have been lost in battle while in the service of the United States of America.
The Keynote speaker was Jim Sherman, U.S. Army, Commander, American Legion District 23.
Dale Brittan and Dale Saxon performed the Ballad of the Green Barret. And Jim Medlin, U.S. Staff Sergeant, USAF, 1967 – 1971, followed reciting A Toast to the Flag.
“A Toast to the Flag” was a poem penned by journalist, John Jay Daly. John Day was a poet, drama critic and newsman, who worked for the Washington Post. He wrote this now famous poem early in his career and it was published in 1917.

A Toast to the Flag
Here’s to the red of it:
There’s not a thread of it,
No, nor a shred of it
In all the spread of it
From foot to head,
But heroes bled for it,
Faced steel and lead for it,
Precious blood shed for it,
Bathing it Red!

Here’s to the white of it:
Thrilled by the sight of it,
Who knows the right of it
But feels the might of it
Through the day and night?
Womanhood’s care for it,
Made manhood dare for it,
Purity’s prayer for it
Keeps it so White!

Here’s to the blue of it:
Beauteous view of it,
Heavenly hue of it,
Star-spangled dew of it —
Constant and true.
States stand supreme for it,
Diadems gleam for it,
Liberty’s beam for it
Brightens the Blue!

Here’s to the whole of it:
Stars, stripes and pole of it,
Body and soul of it;
O, and the roll of it,
Sun shining through;
Hearts in accord for it,
Swear by the sword for it,
Thanking the Lord for it,
Red White and Blue!
   Afterward, Brittan and Saxon performed “He Ain’t Heavy.”
   Vietnam Veterans of Kings Mountain did Thirteen Folds of the Flag, and American Legion Post 155 presented a wreath, followed by TAPS being played by Marine Corps League 1164.
   Loch Norman Pipers presented a Piper Interlude during the Retrieval of the Colors by Boy Scout Troop 91. Closing remarks were given by Mayor Scott Neisler.

By Loretta Cozart

During a city council budget work session held on Monday, May 22 at city hall, Kings Mountain City Manager Jim Palenick proposed a Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget of $65,079,820, an increase of $11,174,987 from last year’s budget of $53,904,822.
The proposed budget includes a 5-cent property tax increase, a 10% increase in water and sewer, in addition to a solid waste fee increase of $2.49, and a stormwater fee increase of $1.50. There are no increases proposed for electric or natural gas.
How does the city’s proposed property tax rate increase of 5-cents, to a new rate of 48-cents, compare with that of other municipalities of comparable size to Kings Mountain? Cities compared include Lincolnton: 56-cents, Newton:  54- cents; Morganton: 57-cents; Albemarle: 64-cents, and Lexington: 65-cents, for an average property tax rate of .59-cents.
The budget also includes $1.8 million for paving and road improvements. “Thirty-
five streets will be paved throughout the city,” Palenick said. “And, $100,000 is included for parks and recreation capital improvements. A five percent wage increase has been set aside for city employees included in the budget as well.”              
How does that translate to the average citizen’s monthly budget? For a person who owns a $100,000 house, the city estimates the increase to be $12.79 per month. For $200,000 home, it is estimated the additional cost will be $17.51 per month. And for a $400,000 house, citizens will see an increase to $26.40 per month.
“The city has been using money from the electric fund until the money has been depleted.” Jim Palenick said in an interview with the Herald. “We have, for years, kept the city's property tax artificially low, and the city took money away from its electric utilities, and its gas utility, it didn't reinvest in those utilities, and it didn't develop rate stabilization funds for those. So it didn't develop high quality appropriate fund balances for them. The time has come to pay the piper,” he explained.
“We're doing this in a fiscally responsible way, and planning for the future in a very strategic way. The key is as we are growing, and we will continue to grow a lot, so we must reinvest in a lot of these things, the infrastructure, the amenities, and the quality of life. Because we've neglected parks for a very long time, we allocated $100,000 in park improvements in this budget. But in the future, we expect to add a lot more.”
   Kings Mountain is unique in that it maintains both a public library and a senior center. In many communities they are maintained instead by the county. The library’s proposed budget is $837,050, and the senior center’s is $837,500.
   Palenick continued, “The city has $1.8 million in total paving and road improvements included in this budget. That compares to recent years of $200,000 to $300,000. And over $4 million was included for rolling-stock purchases, including two new fire trucks that are needed. The city is replacing the leaf pickup machines, which have been a real source of concern and controversy because we haven't been as responsive. We haven't been as good, as serviceable, as we should have been in that program, and we realized that a lot of it all came down to the poor quality of our equipment. So that's all being replaced.”
  “If we can start, for instance really focusing this year on paving and road construction and some necessary rolling stock and large equipment purchases, then in future years you're going to see a whole lot more about Parks and Recreation, Streetscape, and other major infrastructure things that we'll try to focus on,” he said.
   The proposed budget does not add any additional positions to the General Fund. “We have made a change where we are hiring a city engineer but eliminating a position that had been set aside for communications. But there's no net increase. It's the same, relatively flat. In Stormwater we propose adding two new positions to meet state mandated requirements.
   Streetscape is not included in the budget for several reasons, he said, “Number one, one of the things that is in this budget is that we are moving away from the city being responsible for running the Main Street program, having actual city employees do that work, and it being a city function. We are proposing to have a contract with a local non-for-profit of stakeholders from the downtown and small business owners, who then we will contract with to do all those things.”
   In summary, Palenick said, “We are proposing a 5-cent property tax increase. For a local government, property taxes are considered a general revenue to be used for services that are not paid for by specific user fees‐public safety, public works, streets, administration, etc. That generates about $1,000,000 a year. That is not $1,000,000 to increase the budget, it's $1,000,000 that goes toward debt service (repaying city debts). A $1,000,000 in debt service translates to over $5,000,000 in capital improvements.”
      Additionally, if approved, the cost for a typical new single-family house building permit will increase from $800 to $1,647, which is in line with what both Gaston County and the City of Shelby charge. Palenick said, “On the building permits, we certainly comply with the law, we provide the minimum basic level of service, and we're working on fully covering the cost for moderate level of service, but again, not quite,” he said.
    So, while we've made various changes to get us closer to industry standards and we're getting more competitively surrounding units, we're not adding any additional fees, we are adjusting them. And don't forget, this only affects construction and new growth, so most people do not pay these fees. You pay it because you're building something, adding something, developing something, and most people who do that are used to this within the environment of what they do, and the city would remain very competitive.”
   He continued, “And the primary reasoning for this budget is that we are trying to get these utilities, solid waste electric, gas, water, sewer, etc., to truly be closed loop enterprise funds to pay for themselves. They should not subsidize each other, and they should also pay for themselves. So, when we see solid waste doesn't pay for itself, we're trying to get it closer. We have increased building permits, mostly on the larger commercial and industrial side, trying simply to get that program to pay for itself. It still doesn't, but it's getting closer.”
   “Stormwater increased simply because the city was in violation. We weren't doing enough. Our program isn't robust enough. The state has said, ‘If you don't start doing it, you're going to be in trouble.’ We will do it better, we'll be hiring two people, and we'll start to be much more active.” The alternative would be to pay a $25,000 fine.
   “We've increased this budget by over $5 million worth of capital improvements. And we're setting the stage to say if we have this amount of property tax dedicated to debt service for capital reinvestment in the future, we will continue to reinvest in the city the way we should have been doing for years and years but haven't. The time has come to start doing that. So, that's why I say the future will be streetscape, parks and rec, and other things like that. Because there must be a way to pay for them in the most appropriate way,” he said.
   “We are at a critical point,” Palenick concluded. “What we do in the next couple of years, the decisions we make, the tools we have, and the sources available to us will have a profound impact on our ability to do this work.”
   Friday afternoon, the city manager updated city council on some positive information regarding current energy trends that suggest, absent unexpected changes to demand or supply which might otherwise result from climactic events; geopolitical upheaval; or natural disasters, we can expect Natural Gas prices to remain fairly flat, or trend lower.
   Since the greatest single economic impact/burden to individual citizens comes as a result of their electric and gas bills, there exists a distinct possibility that in FY23-24, actual decreases to electric and gas bills could yet occur could result, affecting or making up for, or surpassing, the possible increase(s) posed by the 5-cent property tax and the solid waste and water/sewer fee adjustments.
   In the Summer and  Fall of 2022, (between July and November) the City of Kings Mountain increased the P.P.A. (Purchase Power Adjustment) component of Electric rates by 2.75-cents per kilowatt-hour (KWH) due to rapidly rising Natural Gas rates, resulting in electric rate increases to residents of approximately 25% on their electric bills.
   And, because the city also maintains a rate structure which automatically adjusts Natural Gas bills to fluctuate with the commodity cost of  Natural Gas, our residents were also experiencing significant increases in their monthly gas bills.
   If such trends hold, the city could look to lessen or decrease its PPA (Purchase Power Adjustment) rate charge to electric customers; and its gas customers would automatically see their rates decrease.
   According to Moody’s, “Expected 2023 natural gas prices are around 44% lower than forward market expectations in December,”. That has resulted in 2023 expected power prices more than 40% lower than 2022 in some regions, according to the research note which cited S&P Global Market Intelligence data.”
   What does the possible gas rate decreases mean for citizens? The data indicate that a rate reduction of just 2.5% for an average residential electric and gas bill would nearly offset the proposed 5-cent property tax rate increase for valuations up to $100,000.
   A rate reduction of 5% for an average residential electric and gas bill will closely offset our proposed property tax rate increase for valuations up to $200,000.
   For those owning little property ($50k or less), the 5% reduction noted above would virtually offset all proposed 23-24 tax and fee increases combined  --  the net increase would be less than $1 per month, total, assuming the customer pays/utilizes all City services – water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater.

By Loretta Cozart

On May 20, at 11 a.m. at American Legion Post 155 kicked-off their first annual Walk and Roll for Vets, drawing attention to veterans’ suicide and prevention in America. Chris Pullen welcomed everyone prior to raising the largest free-flying flag in the United States that will remain over the post throughout the week.
Afterward the colors were presented by Burns High School Air Force Jr. ROTC Color Guard, including Caitlinn Enfinger, Grayson Brothers, Ethan Hutchens, and Johnathan Martin.
The National Anthem was sung by Jaiden Huffman.
From now through Memorial Day, the community is asked to walk laps at the Deal Street Walking Track in Kings Mountain in honor of a veteran in their lives. If you can’t walk and want to participate, wheelchairs and volunteers will be there to push you. In doing this compassionate gesture, riders and those pushing are invited to attend special events at the post throughout the week.
Other activities include bingo night, karaoke, a Poker Run, and on May 28, the Saluting Marine, Tim Chambers, veteran, author, motivational speaker, high school mascot, and AMVETS spokesperson, will be at the Post to support the veterans. And he will sing karaoke.
   The remaining events at American Legion Post 155 include:
• May 24 – 27, 6 – 8 p.m., Food and public speakers
Haircuts, Open Mic, Karaoke, DJ’s, Bands, and More
• May 27, Poker Run sign ups 10 a.m.
• May 28,  Veteran Breakfast Legion 8 – 11 a.m.
• May 29, 6-8 p.m. Closing of the Event
   Events at Kings Mountain Walking track include:
• May 24-29, 11 a.m.- 9 a.m., for 9 days, Veterans Walk and Roll
• May 24-29, Meet some of the Sponsors and volunteers
   On May 29, at 10 a.m. placing of the Flags will occur at Mountain Rest Cemetery in Kings Mountain. Flags will be given out that morning at the YMCA track, in Kings Mountain.
The flag flying over the American Legion is a traveling flag that measures 118 ft. long, and 65 feet wide. Stars from tip-to-tip are four-feet wide, and each stripe is five-feet high. It weighs 180 pounds.

It was a beautiful cool cloudy day for the first ever Moss Lake Paddle Race. The group met at 10:00 a.m. sharp at the public access/boat ramp at 863 New Camp Creek Church Road in Kings Mountain. David Caldwell, Broad Riverkeeper, MountainTrue, and Waterkeeper Alliance member, gave a brief introduction and explained the racecourse and rules. The race started at about 10:45 a.m.
Caldwell spoke saying that he, “thanked the generous sponsors: Michael Cheng, who contributed the prize money. Joy Pharr Realtor and Christie’s International co-sponsored the race and is also sponsoring our Swim Guide  site  at  Moss  Lake. Glad to see so many people out enjoying and protecting the places we share!”
   Congratulations to Braxton Carter for his very swift time of 37-minutes covering 4.2 miles to take home 1st place. He averaged over 6 miles per hour in his 20’ long kayak. Gene Summey took home 2nd place, also in a solo kayak, with a time of 45-minutes. Roger Beatty brought home the bronze in 48-minutes, amazingly on a stand-up paddle board. Prizes were $200 for 1st place, $100 for 2nd place, $50 for 3rd place.

By Loretta Cozart

Sinet Yim and her husband, Komar Seng opened
K Donuts in Kings Mountain on May 2 at 110 West King Street at the intersection with Battleground Avenue.
They make fresh donuts daily, opening the shop at 6:00 a.m., and closing at 3:00 p.m., or until the donuts sell out.
North Carolina Farm Bureau Agent Andrew Poeng said of the new shop,
“K Donuts hits close to home for me. For those that do not know, I grew up in a family-owned donut shop for 17 years in California. This family is from Cambodia and are refugees from the Khmer Rouge just like my parents.”

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain’s business district was busting on Saturday morning as people enjoyed the warm day and an opportunity to get outside to spend time together. On Mountain Street, a couple enjoyed a cup of coffee at Gold Medusa Coffee Co. and
Uncommon Artisans.
Up the block at Mountain Holiday, the building is being repaired after suffering storm damage. Building owner Bobby Horn shared that he hopes to have repairs completed within three to four weeks.
The Imperial Mercantile saw shoppers looking for unique Mother’s Day gifts, along with locally sourced specialty foods. Shoppers perused the merchandise and chatted with the owners, asking about family and catching up on the news.
Across the street, at 131 West groups gathered for lunch on the patio overlooking Mountain Street. Passersby could hear laughter as groups relished their time together.
As the weather warms and people celebrate the opportunities to gather after the official end of the COVID pandemic, it is refreshing to see smiling faces and hear the sounds of people celebrating in each other’s company.

By Loretta Cozart

Kiamesha Young has transformed the century old Esso Gas Station once owned by the McGill
family, at 100 E. King Street, into her new real estate office. Outside, new signage reads YOUNG in bold letters on the front of the building. Three bars are incorporated in the logo. Three horizontal bars hang on the pole nearby that read: Real Estate, Construction, and Land. The three bars in the logo represent those three product lines. The 1923 Esso station is now an office for conducting business and greeting clients.

Kindergartners at North Elementary School celebrated moms at a Mother's Day Tea on Friday, May 12. Students performed "You are my Sunshine" and "Mom made it better for Me" in the gym for their mothers to enjoy.
The students danced to the Cha-Cha Slide, wrote stories about their moms, made several crafts and gifts, and planted flowers for them. Both students and Moms enjoyed cupcakes, chips, and tea while watching a short video of pictures of the kindergartner’s days in school this year.

The City of Kings Mountain in partnership with the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail will celebrate the 53rd anniversary of Earth Day by hosting an Earth Day Celebration Saturday, April 22nd, 2023.
Free activities will be provided by various community organizations and vendors.
Enchanting creatures from the world of Sigmon Theatrical will roam the trail. Dino Encounters by Ross plan to bring some very cool dinosaur friends to the event. Woody the Owl will be there too.
Other attractions will include an Animal Petting Zoo, Instrument Petting Zoo, Balloon Art, Face Painting, Wood Working, Food Vendors, Upcycle Artisans, and Entertainment by The Medicine Crow Duo and the Fulton Family.
The Butterfly Release is by far a crowd favorite! Make plans to help release 200 painted Lady butterflies back into their natural habitat. This activity supports the national and environmental cause to save our pollinators.
Extra parking is across the street from the trailhead and along Quarry Road. Come out, celebrate our beautiful earth, and enjoy a walk on the trail! This special event will begin at 11:00 am.
For more information on the Earth Day, contact the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www.KingsMountainEvents.Com. You may also visit their Facebook page at @cityofkmspecialevents.

Kings Mountain Little Theatre will continue its season with the comedy, “Farce of Nature,” directed by Amy Hardin on Friday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. This play is sponsored by the Jim and Penny Larson Family
KMLT is pleased to announce that performances are scheduled for April 28, 29 and May 5, and 6  at 7:30 PM with matinees on Sundays, April 30  and May 7 at 3:00 pm.
The non-stop hilarity of this Southern-fried farce highlights one day in the life of the Wilburn family of Mayhew, Arkansas. Meet D. Gene Wilburn (Greg Dixon), the owner and proprietor of the Reel ‘Em Inn, the finest little fishing lodge in the Ozarks. Well, it used to be, but lately business is down, tourists are few, and the lone guest who’s just checked in—an extremely jittery Carmine DeLuca (Tim Evans) from Chicago—is only there due to a location shift in the Witness Protection Program.
Doesn’t anybody just want to fish anymore? Certainly not D. Gene’s frustrated wife, Wanelle (Denise McCoy), who’s fed up with their lackluster romantic life. She’s taken drastic steps to improve it through hypnotic suggestion; and, for the life of him, D. Gene cannot understand why his pants keep falling down.
D. Gene’s feisty sister Maxie (Mary Grace Keller) has her own problems, chief among them battling ageism to resume her career in law enforcement. a task that’s going to prove to be much harder than she bargained for, since she keeps losing both  her gun  and  the bullets. And she never anticipated the gangster Camine’s been dodging for the last five years,   Sonny Barbosa (Chris Huffstetler), is about to walk through the door, in hot pursuit of his sexy wife, Lola (Caswell Martin).
   Seems the headstrong Lola has driven hundreds of miles to the lodge to follow her boytoy, D. Gene and Wanelle’s son, Ty (Mark Griffin). But Lola meets her match in Ty’s seemingly innocent girlfriend, Jenna (Maddie Spurling), whose patience has reached the breaking point after months of waiting for Ty to come home. Estelle Grabert completes the cast as Roxanne Thorne.
Priority is given to their supportive season members, and they can make a reservation to attend a performance for our plays. All others may purchase tickets at the box office or online at www.kmlt.org. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for students and senior citizens. Reserved seating not claimed at least 10 minutes before show time are subject to release for purchase by others seeking tickets.
Season members may make reservations by calling the theater at 704-730-9408 and leaving a message or send a request to tickets@kmlt.org.

Kings Mountain residents visited the Hord Mansion to celebrate the building’s 100th birthday on Wednesday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A steady stream of visitors dropped in throughout the day, keeping library staff busy as they shared this once beautiful home and its history with the city’s residents.
Approaching the front steps to the mansion, flowers decorated each side of the entryway. Once inside,a beautiful floral arrangement greeted guests in the foyer. Refreshments were offered just beyond the library desk, and a collection of pictures, memorabilia, and ephemera of the Hord Mansion was on display throughout the main level of the home, encouraging visitors to walk through the facility and admire the recent restorations overseen by Library Director Christina Martin.
A highlight of the event was a tour of the library’s second floor, a space that is normally off-limits to the public. During recent renovations, this part of the facility saw the most repair as it was brought back to life with plasterwork and paint. A once leaky roof had allowed water in, that damaged the ceiling and walls. Period light fixtures replaced ones that didn’t match the original style of the home. The library’s roof was replaced in 2022, and windows throughout the building were repaired and reglazed.
      Aside from the roof and windows, the front columns of the Hord Mansion were also repaired, due to cracks in the stucco.
    Dr. Jacob George Van Buren Hord built the mansion in 1923. It was donated to the city of Kings Mountain for use as a library by the children of Jacob S. and Margaret Juletta Mauney in 1947. From 1947 to about 1962–1963, the building also functioned as a teacherage for the Kings Mountain school system.
   The Hord Mansion is a two-story, five bay, yellow-brick Southern Colonial Revival-style house. The front facade features a two-story, pedimented tetrastyle portico with stucco-finished masonry columns.
   The library renovation was completed in July 2021, and revealed to the Herald for an exclusive story. During the prior year, the facility underwent some much-needed renovations, including a new roof, plasterwork, paint, window restoration, new storm windows, and new flooring.
   One of the first projects was to restore the windows throughout the home, and there are more than forty of them. Each window had to be removed and taken offsite to clean, remove years of old paint, repaint, and reglazed.
   The windows were painstakingly removed, marked, repaired, and reinstalled in their original place in the building. Storm windows were allowed by the National Register of Historic Places to protect the original single-pane windows.
   In an interview with Library Director Christina Martin, she shared an interesting tidbit discovered during the renovation, “We learned that a small detail in each window indicated the wealth of Dr. J.G. Hord. The window company owner came to give us an estimate and he touched this little piece of gingerbread and asked, ‘Do you know what that means? It means they had money.’”
   The small pieces of gingerbread in each window were hand carved, which took time and added to the cost of the home. The house was built in a time when Kings Mountain had fewer than 3,000 people, and most of the homes in town were built by the mill at a cost of $1,200, or less. Kings Mountain had its share of nicer homes at the time, but the majority were modest dwellings for millworkers and shopkeepers. Without records, it is unclear the exact cost to build the Hord Mansion, but from the home’s detail one can see that Dr. Hord was a wealthy man.
   Library staff worked diligently to preserve and restore the Hord Mansion as closely as possible to its original state in 1923. Without the home’s original plans, staff could only guess what once was. Even so, their hard work and dedication, along with city funding, keeps this special building alive to serve the people of Kings Mountain for another century.

Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce will hold their April Members Luncheon at Patriots Park in Kings Mountain on Wednesday, April 19 from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. This event is sponsored by City of Kings Mountain.
The featured speaker is Kings Mountain  Mayor Scott Neisler. Chamber members and guests can network, meet new members, and gain knowledge on issues that impact them during this event.
RSVP to Kathryn@clevelandchamber.org

By Loretta Cozart
 
Toneika Stephens-Young, whose stage name is Neika Simone, is a Kings Mountain native bringing  Kings Mountain Smooth Jazz Festival to town on Saturday, May 13, at Joy Performance Center, at 202 S. Railroad Avenue.
So far, there are five confirmed performers, ranging from vocalists, to a grammy nominated saxophonist. Opening the show is V Siren, followed by Black Coffee Quartet, Tryon Parks, and Simone. The performance also features saxophonist Jakiem Joyner. The event host is Comedian Ketta Keet. The lineup is guaranteed to bring an exciting evening of Smooth Jazz.
Many of Simone’s family members, including her parents, still reside in the area. Her parents are Charles and Pasty Stephens, and her brother is Michael Stephens. Growing up, she attended Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where she sang in the youth choir. She
attended  Kings  Mountain District Schools: Bethware Elementary, Central School, Kings Mountain Middle School, and she graduated from Kings Mountain High School in 1993. She sang in the Pop-Choir at Central and Kings Review in high school. She attended Elizabeth City State on a scholarship majoring in music.
While in college, friends asked her if she had ever thought about jazz. But it wasn’t until she moved to Richmond, Virginia that she took the time to really listen to that genre of music.
“As a teenager, I was shy and stayed with things that were most comfortable. In Richmond, I met a group of performers and with them, I began to grow as a singer and accept my own voice,” Simone said.
Hype Magazine described Simone’s work stating, “Released on February 3, 2022, the tantalizing four-track EP covers relatable emotions from opening oneself up to the sweet cravings of new love, unpacking the complicated nuances of infidelity, to setting boundaries after a break-up. With lyrics and melody written entirely by Simone, her work has been described by SmoothJazz.com as having ‘powerful vocal range, a dynamic expanse of emotions, an intoxicating rhythm diversity and a hypnotic gift for intimate and inviting songwriting.’ Her major influences aside from Nina Simone include Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn and Nancy Wilson.”
   Simone shared the reason for bringing this performance home, “I see Kings Mountain progressing as a city. What is going on downtown is exciting and I feel the time has come to bring an annual Smooth Jazz Festival event here. The folks in our lineup are top-rated musicians and Joy Performance Theater is an excellent venue in which to host such an event. Friends keep asking me, ‘Where are you performing? When are you playing?,’ so it makes sense that I to bring my music home and share it with the community.”

David and Marie Brinkley, longtime donors who have contributed to the advancement of Gardner-Webb University, continue to see their recent investment flourish. The Brinkley Amphitheater, a 900-seat venue, is progressing.
“According to our construction schedule, we are looking at being able to host our first show this fall,” said David Wacaster, director of operations for Facilities and Maintenance.
   The finished project will engage students and the community while also adding an inviting and welcoming presence to Main Street and the South entrance to campus. The Brinkley Amphitheater will provide a new place to present performing arts, outdoor worship services, Webbstock events and other summer concerts.
This new venue is part of a larger outdoor complex. In the second phase of development for the site, Gardner-Webb intends to construct a Main Street-facing building adjoining the amphitheater that will house both a campus shop and a nationally    recognized eatery open to the public.
   The Brinkleys provided the lead naming gift, and according to GWU’s Vice President for Advancement Nate Evans, additional support for the outdoor performance complex came from a $500,000 budget appropriation from the North Carolina General Assembly, with endorsements from the Boiling Springs Town Council and the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners. Several other university donors have also generously provided financial contributions towards this project. 
The Brinkleys have a strong philanthropic background and pledged to give portions of their income to making a difference in the community. “Every day when I say my prayers, I ask the Lord to give me opportunities that I can share my blessings,” David Brinkley stated.
In addition to their gifts to various organizations in Cleveland County and Kings Mountain, N.C., where they live, the Brinkleys have financially supported several projects at Gardner-Webb. Most recently, they donated money toward a new Runnin’ Bulldog sculpture at Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. In the past, they have provided gifts for Gardner-Webb academic programs, the Marching Bulldog Band uniforms and the Brinkley Softball Stadium.
When the opportunity presented itself for them to contribute to the amphitheater project, they were excited about the possibilities of a new performance venue for the University. They believe that the amphitheater will give the University exposure and open doors for opportunities for people in the region to become more familiar with the town of Boiling Springs and Gardner-Webb University.

By Loretta Cozart

M. E. Brown Enterprises, LLC, the former owner of Hounds Drive-in, Michel E. Brown listed as agent, has purchased 61.53 acres in northern Cleveland County.
The property was once the site of Challenger 3 Golf & Amusement, and later Oak Mills, at 1650 N. Post Road/Hwy. 180 in upper Cleveland County. The sale was recorded on February 28.
On February 19 Hounds Drive-in announced it would close, and according to NC Secretary of State, Hounds Drive-In Theatre, LLC has been dissolved.
Deer Brook Golf Club, LLC  adjoins the property on three sides. A church and residences are across the street. No plans have yet been announced for the property.   

By Loretta Cozart

On Friday, March 31 at 4 p.m., Shelby Police Chief Jeff Ledford retired, signing off for the last time after 30-years of service with the department.
He was quick to thank others for pointing him toward a career in law enforcement. After graduating from Kings Mountain High School in 1986, he began his path into public service when he joined the Kings Mountain Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter at the age of 18.
Chief Ledford was born, raised, and continues to live in Kings Mountain. He is the son of the late Harold and Rachel Ledford.
“My Godfather was David Corn, and he had a heavy influence on me. He had worked at Kings Mountain Police Department before going on to the state to instruct officers in use of the Intoxilyzer. On his advice, I studied Criminal Justice and went into the Police Academy in 1991. He introduced me to Shelby Police Department, and I began my career here in 1992. I was promoted to chief fifteen years ago and have been fortunate to work my entire career in one place.”
When asked if any event in his career stands out in his mind, Chief Ledford answered saying, “I’ve spent the last couple of months reflecting about that and there is not one single moment that was the moment. I would have to say that moment is made up of lots of different moments, if that makes sense?”
“It is made up of all the people I’ve worked for. I came up under some good leaders and mentors. They helped me, and not just people from Shelby. Those I worked alongside watching what they did every day, it was just humbling to watch,” he said.
“Lots of moments in the last five years stand out, watching how officers have handled and worked with groups in the community. And this was before the time that the national narrative was police being against the community. The people I work alongside take customer service very seriously, engaging the community. It is amazing how the community has rallied around us. We have had our dark days, but I have been blessed for 30-years to be part of this group.”
According to Chief Ledford, the program he takes immense pride in is Partners for Change, started in 2012. He feels this group has strengthened community relations and community cohesion. “I didn’t do this myself,” he was quick to point out. “This group was formed by several pastors, community leaders, and me. We didn’t just have 10 to 20 people involved for our quarterly lunches, we had 80 to 100.”
“To see people come together in a room for lunch and conversation. I ask myself, ‘Had we not done that, where would we be?’ I have learned that it takes years to build trust and relationships, but that trust can be lost in a minute. We held a lunch yesterday to thank everyone, and to say that we aren’t through yet; we have more work to do.”
“Here, I have seen law enforcement who really cares about the community, Shelby Police Department, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, Kings Mountain Police Department, and Bessemer City Police Department. I have been blessed to work among the best in this business. When you work with people like that, you realize you are lucky to have found such a good place to be.”
When asked what his plans are for retirement, Chief Ledford shared that he had spoken to several retired officers earlier in the day. “Talking to them, I realized I wouldn’t be where I am today were it not for them putting me on this path.”
Chief Ledford’s initial plans include a family trip to the coast for a couple of weeks. “I have to catch up on a few things I’ve put off. Family, they are the people who paid the price the most. They have sacrificed for me. And the person who tolerated the most was my wife, Kendra. I have a debt to repay to her.”
My son, Jarrett, just graduated. He is a prosecutor and the Assistant District Attorney. I’m passing that public service torch on to him. My daughter Bailey is a student at Campbell University, and I plan to go watch her cheer there. She is working on a Marketing Major, and now it’s my turn to cheer them both on.”
   Chief Ledford paused, “Today is bittersweet, especially when I do my final sign-off. I’ve watched others do it and didn’t understand how hard that is to do, until I was preparing for it myself. I look forward to the next chapter. I just know it is going to be hard to close this one. At 4 pm, I’ll say for the last time, ‘Shelby, I’m 10-42,’ the code used to indicate an officer's end of tour. “If I can get through that, then I’ll be off to the coast.”

By Loretta Cozart

   Kings Mountain Gateway Trail held a ribbon cutting on Friday, March 31 at 3:30 p.m. for the new playground at 807 S. Battleground Ave., in Kings Mountain.
   Shirley Brutko thanked the folks that made the playground possible and introduced Tim Moore, Speaker of the NC House.  
   Speaker Moore spoke about the financial gift from the state that helped make the playground possible and added that 2023 is the Year of the Trails for North Carolina and how important trails are to the state.
   For more information about the Gateway Trail, call: 704-685-3549 OR 704-739-9663 or email Shirley Brutko at “sbrutko@att.net“.

Last week, KMPD responded to a residence on Garrison Drive in reference to a dispute over services rendered putting out pine straw. Two black males driving a red in color Ford F250 with Georgia plates solicited an elderly citizen to hire them to put pine straw out at $9.00 a bale. The work took approximately one hour to complete when the males provided the citizen with an invoice for $3800.00 after only putting out an estimated 12 to 15 bales of pine straw.
These “SCAMMERS” misrepresented to the citizen that the ($9.00 per bale) was $9.00 per bundle, which was described by the
“SCAMMERS” as the size of approximately a basketball. Fortunately, this dispute/incident was settled at a much lower price between the two parties.
   KMPD warns all citizens of the possibility of this SCAM being conducted in our community. The “PINE STRAW SCAM” is common for the beginning of spring and in early fall.
   Citizens should not feel intimidated to pay an over-inflated price for these types of services. The “SCAMMERS” are typically from out of state and will coerce the citizen in paying thousands of dollars more than what the average price is from reputable lawn and garden businesses.
   Always get the “agreed” upon price and amount of material in writing before allowing services to be done.
   If anyone feels that they or someone they know is a victim of this SCAM contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444 to report the incident. Also remember that the City of Kings Mountain has an ordinance for door-to-door solicitation in the city. Contact KMPD to report any door-to-door solicitors at any time.

The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail Run was a big success even with a little rain. Over 180 runners signed up for the runs, 10Mile & 5K.
Thirty-five pottery trophies were awarded to the 10Mile runners and 47 were awarded to the 5K runners. The run t-shirts featured the new North Carolina “Year of the Trail” logo for 2023.
Director, Kings Mountain Gateway Trail, Inc. Shirley Brutko said, “Approximately 16 volunteers helped with the run. Starr and Neil Dowell, of  Finish Well Timing, did an awesome job of timing the runners. Taylor Caldera from Royal T Café, as well as Ronnie & Rita Franks, helped with drinks and refreshments for the crowd.”

Kings Mountain’s Easter Egg Hunt kicks off the city’s 2023 event season and what a kick-off it will be! Join them April 6, at 7:30 p.m. for an Egg-citing time at 220 South Railroad Avenue, as children, ages 1 up to 14, are welcome to hunt for colorful eggs filled with candy and toys after dark.
More than 10,000 prize and candy filled eggs will be hidden across Patriots Park. Subway Cleveland Mall are proudly sponsoring four golden eggs to be hidden throughout the park. Inside each golden egg, a lucky egg hunter will find gift certificates redeemable at Subway. The EGGstravaganza will include a petting zoo, compliments of Son Ridge Farms, music, and a visit from the Wendell the Easter Bunny himself. Along with all the fun, Battleground Community Church will provide free hot dogs and local businesses such as, Child Care Connections, Cleveland County Partnership  for  Children, and the Kings Mountain YMCA among others will offer activities for the kids.
Families should gather at Patriots Park at 7:30 pm. Egg Hunt will begin at 8:00 p.m. Parents are encouraged to participate with their little ones.
Don’t forget to bring your Easter basket, flashlight, and camera!
The city acknowledges their 2023 annual sponsors, Albemarle Corporation, and Ronald’s Garage.
For more information, call the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www.KingsMountainEvents.Com.

For the past 3 years Miranda McDaniel, PE teacher and Teacher of the Year at Grover Elementary, set up a heart obstacle course in which the students participate.
The course is set up into the four chambers of the heart. Students learn how blood flows through their heart, to the lungs, into their body, and back to their heart. Students really get their heart pumping with the obstacle course and love it! Mrs. McDaniel talks to the students about how important our heart is and what we can do to make it strong and healthy.
This year she wanted to do more! So, she decided to do hands-only CPR with 4th graders. At first the students were not sure about it but after talking and learning that at least half of the students in each class knew someone close who had suffered from a heart issue they seemed to be on board. Most thought they were too young and wouldn’t be able to do anything, but the students soon learned just how valuable they might be in helping save a life.  
With the help of Brown Emergency Training Center, we were able to use training manikins with the students to correctly perform CPR. Students worked in groups to help each other make sure they were correctly placing their hands in the right place, pushing hard enough, and at a good pace. Students were really involved and cheering each other on to do their best. The students could
be heard saying “you got this,” "don't give up,”  and “keep pushing.”
Once students felt confident, the class went through an interactive video of a scenario that could happen and worked in teams to deliver CPR. All students learned a valuable skill that we hope stays with them in case they must help save a life.  

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Gateway Trail will hold their 5K Walk and 10-Miler on Saturday, March 25 at 807 S. Battleground Avenue in Kings Mountain. This race is happening on a beautiful segment of Thread Trail in Kings Mountain, NC and this year's t-shirts will have a special NC Year of the Trail logo on them.
To register, visit runsignup.com, or call 704.685-3549 or 704-739-9663. Email Shirley Brutko at sbrutko@att.net.