Cleveland County is currently seeking residents to serve on the Planning Board, the Board of Adjustment, and the Historic Preservation Commission. These boards play a critical role in land-use decisions, community development, and the preservation of the county’s historic and cultural resources.
Board and commission members review property and development information, attend public meetings, and participate in public hearings to help ensure decisions are fair, lawful, and thoughtfully made.
Board Responsibilities
• Board of Adjustment - Conducts public hearings and makes decisions related to zoning matters, variances, and other issues that affect property rights and land use within Cleveland County.
• Historic Preservation Commission - Works to protect and preserve the historic properties, cultural heritage, and architectural character of Cleveland County and its municipalities. 
• Planning Board - Serves in an advisory role to the Cleveland County Board of
Commissioners by providing planning and policy recommendations related to land use, growth, and development. Applicant Qualifications
Applicants must:
• Be a resident of Cleveland County
• Be able to review detailed information and make objective decisions
• Be willing to attend meetings and participate in public hearings
• Demonstrate fairness, integrity, and sound judgment
Experience in planning, zoning, land use, law, real estate, construction, or public service is helpful but not required. Training will be provided.
Interested residents may apply online by visiting the Cleveland County website at www.clevelandcounty.com and selecting ‘Boards and Committees’ under the Government section. Completed applications will be reviewed by the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners.
Upcoming Events:
• Spangler Library Check Presentation - Tuesday, January 27 | 9:00 AM, 112 Piedmont Drive, Lawndale
• Board of Elections Ribbon Cutting - Tuesday, January 27 | 10:30 AM, 827 W. Marion Street, Shelby
• Waco VFD/EMS/CCSO Joint Base Opening - Saturday, January 31 | 10:00 AM, 1523 Cherryville Road, Cherryville
• Board of Commissioners Meeting - Tuesday, February 3 | 6:00 PM, 311 E. Marion Street, Shelby
• Sweetheart Saturday - Saturday, February 14 | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM, 311 E. Marion Street, Shelby
• Household Hazardous Waste Day - Saturday, March 7 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM, 200 S. Post Road (Health Department), Shelby

 

By Alan Hodge

“Everyone has a story to tell, but they don’t know they have it.”
That’s what Regina Baynard tells folks who take part in the “Your Story, Your Way” journaling program held the first and third Wednesday of each month from 11:30am-12:30pm at the H. Lawrence Patrick Senior Life and Conference Center, 909 E. Kings St., in Kings Mountain.
The program lets participants share stories from their life and learn how to chronicle them not only for their own pleasure but for anyone they care to share them within this or future generations.
Baynard, who was born on a farm in Ohio in 1948, has been volunteering to lead the class for about two years. She comes by her love of writing naturally.
“My mother was very creative,” Baynard says. “She was a poet, an artist, and very musical. I inherited my love of poetry from her.”
Baynard put her writing skills to work at an early age.
“When I was in eighth grade we had a poetry contest,” she said. “Some of the other kids asked me to write poems for them. The teacher said it was curious how so many of the entries were similar.”
More recently, Baynard has been working on her own life journey story. She has taken photos of her family and herself going back many, many, decades and is penning an epic poem describing the scenes. So far, the work has filled two large albums.
Baynard is sharing her talent with “Your Story, Your Way” participants.
“We start by writing a sentence or a word and just let it flow from there in free association,” she said. “That can trigger memories. Some people will want to publish their story, some want to share with their family, some simply enjoy writing.”
Last week, two ladies showed up for the program, Gayle Tapy from Gastonia and Marlene Newman from Kings Mtn.
Tapy is basing her journal work on a book her father, a US Navy WWII veteran, had started writing, but never finished, about his wartime adventures.
“He told one story about the ship he was on taking government gold from Poland to America,” she said. “I started thinking about what other things he must have done and use my imagination to write them down. This helps me try to understand what he did.”
Newman grew up in Kings Mtn. Last week was her first time taking part in the program.
“I like to write and just want to see where the spirit directs me,” she said. “I especially want to write about the things I have seen in Kings Mtn.”
Newman also has another rich source for journal material.
“I was a missionary in Africa for forty years,” she says.
Baynard says the “Your Story, Your Way” program is open to any Patrick Senior Center-eligible person who cares to take part.
“I hope to grow it,” she says. “I want people to write down their beliefs. The story is in them.”
For more information on “Your Story, Your Way” as well as the plethora of other fantastic programs offered at the Patrick Senior Center, visit https://www.cityofkm.com/213/Senior
-Services or https://
www.facebook.com/Patrick
SeniorCenter/

The community is invited to a conversation on downtown revitalization with Steve D’Avria, Senior Vice President of the Gaston Business Association, on Thursday, January 22, at 5:30 p.m., in the Kings Mountain City Hall Council Chamber.
Join KM Forward for an insightful and timely discussion with Steve D’Avria. As a driving force behind the Gaston Business Association’s operations and continued success, Steve brings firsthand experience and practical insight into what it takes to build vibrant downtowns.
Steve will share proven strategies and real-world methods that have fueled downtown revitalization in Gastonia, highlighting what works, why it works, and how these approaches can inspire other communities.
 Whether you’re a business owner, community leader, or simply passionate about the future of Kings Mountain’s business community, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
If you want to take a deeper dive into proven methods for revitalizing the heart of the community, please join this insightful discussion. KM Forward looks forward to seeing you there!

 

 Kings Mountain Forward, with Kings Mountain Little Theater, is excited to launch Second Saturday Movies, a new family-focused initiative that begins January 15 and runs through June.
On the second Saturday of each month, families are invited to gather at the historic Joy Theatre, 202 S. Railroad Avenue in downtown Kings Mountain, for a fun, welcoming family experience.
Each month, a beloved, family-friendly movie will be available free of charge and open to everyone. To make the experience even sweeter, adults attending with children will receive free admission, a small popcorn, and a drink.
As of this press release, only two primary sponsorship opportunities remain available at $600 each:
• January: Inside Out 2 - The Skillet and 133 West
• February: Superman 2025 - Coldwell Banker Mountainview Real Estate
• March: How to Train Your Dragon - Gutter Guys, Inc.
• April: Despicable Me - Edward Jones, Heather Siak
• May: The LEGO Batman
• June: Zootopia 2 –
Supporting sponsorships include Social House by Royal T, Harris Funeral Home, Inc., Ronald's Garage, Mountaineer Motors, Bridges Hardware, Darrell L. Keller, CPA, PA, The Imperial Mercantile, Foothills Historic Preservation, Jolly Realty, C & C Heating, Cooling and Insulation, LLC, and Southern Arts Society, Inc.
Primary and supporting pponsorships are open to all Kings Mountain businesses and offer an affordable way to demonstrate community support.
• Primary sponsors receive excellent visibility and recognition, including:
• Their business name displayed on the Joy Theatre marquee before their sponsored film
• Featured placement in event materials
• Online and on-screen promotion
• Recognition as a Supporting Sponsor for the remainder of the season
Supporting Sponsorships provide an affordable way to show community support. For just $25, Supporting Sponsors receive recognition:
• In event materials
• In online promotions

 

Kings Mountain Police Department sent a special thank you message to Fallston Elementary Students, “Thank you, Fallston Elementary School, for the beautiful Christmas cards! Your creativity and kind words brightened our day here at the Kings Mountain Police Department. We appreciate the time and effort you put into each card, they brought smiles to all of us and reminded us of the joy and spirit of the season.” (Photo / KMPD FB Page)

 

By Loretta Cozart

The holiday season arrives in downtown Kings Mountain on Saturday, December 6, 2025, starting with the inaugural Christmas on Piedmont event, followed by the beloved Kings Mountain Christmas Parade and an evening full of festive activities.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can enjoy the inaugural Christmas on Piedmont event. a free, fun-filled day of music, crafts, history, and holiday magic hosted by the Kings Mountain Historical Museum in partnership with the City of Kings Mountain, Nutty for Nutcrackers Museum, and Rebel Panda Studio,
Christmas on Piedmont transforms Piedmont Avenue into a winter wonderland. Live music from the Carolina Thunder Mugs sets a festive tone, while hands-on arts-and-crafts activities allow attendees to create nutcracker- and Christmas-themed ornaments. Nutty for Nutcrackers will also debut its fourth Nutcracker room, showcasing collectible holiday displays sure to delight visitors.
Young visitors can meet the Mouse King and other inflatables, while foodies will enjoy local favorites like Iron City BBQ. History enthusiasts can step back in time with living history demonstrations, including hearth cooking, blacksmithing, woodworking, and Revolutionary War encampments celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
The holiday excitement continues at 3 p.m. with the Kings Mountain Christmas Parade, featuring over 100 floats, local performance groups, and marching bands. The grand procession winds from Deal Street to Railroad Avenue and concludes at Patriots Park, where Santa Claus makes a special appearance, officially ushering in the holiday season. This isn’t just a parade, but a day-long celebration for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, laugh, and make holiday memories together.
After the parade, Patriots Park transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriage rides, “Holly Jolly Hayrides,” Bela Express train rides, interactive holiday characters, Santa’s Workshop, and a live nativity. The Christmas Light Extravaganza continues nightly through New Year’s, illuminating the park with over a million lights set to music.
Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early, dress warmly, and bring cameras to capture the festive moments. Parking is available downtown and near Patriots Park, though street closures will be in effect during the parade.
Whether a longtime local or a visitor seeking a charming small-town holiday experience, Christmas on Piedmont and the Kings Mountain Christmas Parade promise a magical day of laughter, lights, and lasting memories. Plan ahead and make the most of this full day of holiday cheer!
For more information, contact City of Kings Mountain Marketing, Tourism & Events Department, at 704-730-2101, or visit https://www.kingsmountainevents.com/

Small Business Saturday is November 29, and Kings Mountain Forward is excited to bring together local shops and encourage our community to shop locally—with a little added incentive! Shoppers can take care of their shopping needs that day and have a chance to win three valuable prizes.
Here’s how it works:
For every purchase at participating businesses, customers will receive one entry ticket into a drawing with three prize experiences:
• Date Night Experience (valued at $520)
• Family Night Experience (valued at $510)
• Outdoor Experience (valued at $450)
Participating businesses will collect their customers’ tickets and deliver them to 133 West by 7 p.m. The drawing will be held at 7:15 p.m.
To check out this year’s participants, scan the QR code for the updated list. New merchants will be added throughout the week.
If you are a merchant in Kings Mountain and wish to participate, contact Kings Mountain Forward at 704-259-8960.
Kings Mountain Forward thanks the community for supporting local businesses. Together, let’s move KM Forward and make this Small Business Saturday one to remember!

By  Allyson Parker

Mauney Memorial Library (MML) located at 100 S. Piedmont Ave in Kings Mountain, NC, now offers study rooms for use. These new study rooms available for use mark the end of a year-long project to help better the Kings Mountain community.
Christina Martin, the Cultural Enrichment Director over Library Services, Senior Services and Recreation for the City of Kings Mountain (COKM), played a crucial role in making the project a reality. Martin stated, “Having private study room service has been a need for a long time and it is wonderful that it is now available for community members.”
The study rooms were created through extensive work and funded by grant money made available by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, utilizing funds from the Library Service and Technology Act. For the other funding, Martin mentioned wanting to give a special thank you saying, “There was a grant match and last year when I wrote the grant, the Neisler Foundation and Beam Construction donated monies to MML and they were used as the match for the grant.”
When Martin was asked about her involvement in the process, she added, “I did the majority of the work from researching modular study rooms, writing the grant, doing all grant activities associated with receiving the grant, ordering, paying for and scheduling the installation.”
Martin also noted that others played crucial roles in making these rooms possible saying, “COKM’s wonderful building maintenance team got the spaces ready for the rooms to be placed in, repainted the Teen Zone room as part of this project and installed a way to lock the single room that the manufacturer did not have available.”
In the same comment Martin provided further thanks to Cathy Herring stating, “Cathy Herring, COKM purchasing administrator assisted with processing the financial and contractual aspects of the project.”
The study rooms are sound proof and feature a table, seating, and come equipped with charging ports for USB and USB-C cables. Each room also includes a fan to help air circulation in the space.
 Study rooms use will be made available during standard library operating hours. Rooms will close 15 minutes prior to the library closing.
According to Martin, the rooms are, “ideal for online interviews, students testing, studying or researching. The multi-person one is a great space for all kinds of group collaborations from study groups, group projects, committee meetings and planning sessions.”
The opening of the new study rooms comes at a perfect time, the part of the year that students will be gearing up to study for final exams. 

By Allyson Parker

On November 4, 2025, Kings Mountain residents turned out to fill three open seats on the City Council. Polls were open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Mauney Memorial Library and Patrick Senior Center, giving voters a chance to engage with candidates and learn about their priorities.
Chris Pullen, candidate for Ward 3, greeted voters and shared his goal of building trust between local government and citizens. His wife, Chandra, emphasized that trust is the foundation for advancing community initiatives.
Curtis Pressley, an At-Large candidate for Ward 3, attended with his wife, Katie Champion, and campaign volunteers. Pressley’s group highlighted priorities such as transparency and community food access. Katie Champion stated that she feels area citizens should never have to worry about food or basic needs.
KM student Amanda Smith campaigned for Scott Neisler, sharing, “Scott really cares and works hard for the citizens of KM. I’m impressed by his dedication and commitment to our community.”
Phil Dee added, “Everyone has a voice, and everyone should bring that voice to the table.”
Ke’Shawn Strong, a candidate in Ward 3, shared his priorities, stating, “My most important fight is for senior citizens and our youth. Their healthcare and medical care are so important—they should never have to suffer.”
The election results reflect a mix of experienced leaders and new voices, shaping a bright future for Kings Mountain as the newly elected council members prepare to take office.
When voting ended and ballots were counted, the top three vote-getters were preliminarily announced: Scott Neisler, At Large; Tyler Fletcher Ward 2 and Heather Lemmond Ward 3.
According to an official Cleveland County Board of Elections supervisor, the canvassing period will conclude on November 14, 2025, at which time the winners will be officially confirmed.
Here is the list of candidates and their vote totals:

At-Large, KM City Council
• Scott Neisler – 761 votes
• Phil Dee – 428 votes
• Curtis Pressley – 354 votes
• Bruce W. King – 34 votes
• Jason Nail – 27 votes
• Write-In – 10 votes

Ward 2
• Tyler Fletcher – 73 votes
• Mike Butler – 69 votes
• Tim Sanders – 43 votes
• Write-In– 4 votes

Ward 3
• Heather Lemmond – 110 votes
• Ke’Shawn A. Strong – 83 votes
• Chris Pullen – 65 votes
Write-In – 0 votes

Cleveland County Water Board Commissioners
The vote-getters’ totals are as follows :
• Amy Elliott Bridges – 1,578 votes
• C.J. Pete Pedersen – 1, 312 votes
• Don Melton – 1,051 votes
• Michael Mull (Write-in) ––246 votes
• Rondall Roper, Jr. (Write-in) –131 votes
Write-In (Misc) – 114 votes
Dewey Cook (write-in) –15 votes.

The City of Kings Mountain is continuing to work with the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, engineers and environmental consultants to address recent taste and odor concerns reported in some areas. These issues have been linked to secondary contaminants within the water system.
The City’s Public Utilities Department encourages residents to report any instances of taste or odor directly to the department. In the past two months, the City has received seven direct reports. Each of these homes were visited by city staff, and water samples were collected for analysis.
It is important to note that taste, odor, and color are considered secondary contaminants by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to EPA guidelines:
•Secondary contaminants are not considered a risk to human health but may affect the aestheticquality of water.
•If secondary contaminants exceed these guidelines, water may appear cloudy or have an undesirable taste or odor. However, the water remains safe to drink and does not pose a healthrisk.
Residents should also be aware that temporary discoloration of water can occur as a result of Public Services staff flushing fire hydrants in your area. Flushing helps clean and maintain the water lines but can cause short-term color changes. This is a temporary condition; however, if you have any concerns, please reach out to the City for assistance.
For questions or to report a water quality concern, residents are encouraged to contact the City of Kings Mountain Public Utilities Department at 704-734-4531, or submit a report online at https://cityofkm.com/RequestTracker.aspx.

Bikers are invited to join Murphey’s 31st Annual Toy Run to be held this year on Saturday, November 22.
The proceeds from the charity event will go to the Shriners’ Burn Center, Oxford Orphanage, Masonic Home for Children, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, and Kings Mountain Police Department.
Riders will meet at 11:00 a.m. at 114 Camelot Court in Kings Mountain. Bikes will roll out under police escort from the Scooter Shed at 12:00 p.m.
The participation fee is $10, plus a new toy donation, per person. Riders will enjoy free barbecue after the ride.
From Shelby, travel Highway 74 East, then turn right onto Bethlehem Road. Go about 5 miles. You will pass the Fire Department on the left. Turn left on Phifer Road. The first road to the left is Camelot Court. This is where Murphey's Scooter Shed is located.
From Gastonia, take I-85 to Exit 5. Take a right. Go to the 2nd stoplight and take a left on Phifer Road. Murphey's Scooter Shed will be on the right.
Event organizers are also calling for sponsors for the event, posting on its social media (Meta) Facebook page, “We are keeping the T-shirt sponsorship open till September 30th. We have lost several sponsors this year! If you or someone you know would love to make a difference in a child’s Christmas, please reach out. With your help, we can help more children and their families! Murphey’s Annual Toy Run appreciates all our sponsors, and it makes a difference to a child!”
Call (704) 739-4707 or (704) 477-5762 for more information.
The event rain date is Sunday, November 23.

By Loretta Cozart

The city’s Codes Enforcement Department has announced a strict enforcement campaign targeting junked and nuisance vehicles on properties within city limits, beginning in November and continuing through December.
A vehicle is classified as “junked” if it does not display a current license plate and meets any of the following criteria: it is partially dismantled or wrecked, cannot move under its own power, or is more than five years old and appears to be worth less than $500.
Owners must relocate junked vehicles to an approved property outside the city limits. Alternatively, vehicles may be stored inside a completely enclosed structure, such as a garage or building (carports and temporary structures do not qualify). One junked vehicle may remain in the rear yard if it is fully covered by a suitable cover designed for its size and model.
Nuisance vehicles are those deemed a health or safety hazard, including vehicles that harbor pests, have overgrown vegetation, collect standing water, accumulate combustible materials, pose physical dangers, or have sharp edges. The City Council may also declare other vehicles as public nuisances.
Owners must remove nuisance vehicles from city property or eliminate the hazardous conditions. If the vehicle still qualifies as junked after these conditions are addressed, it must meet the requirements for junked vehicles.
Vehicles found in violation will receive a Pre-Towing notice, giving owners seven days to resolve the issue. If not abated, the city will tow the vehicle and issue a Post-Towing notice with the towing company’s information. Owners must contact the company and pay any fees to retrieve their vehicle.
For more information, contact the Inspections and Codes Department at (704) 734-4561.

 

Kings Mountain utility customers can now pay their bills more easily with the new KMpay Utility App. This app is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Simply scan the QR code for your device to install the app on your smartphone or digital device.
Through the city’s customer web portal, residents can:
• View billing statements
• Make online utility payments
Getting Started:
    To use the portal, you must first register your utility account. You will need your account number from your bill statement. If you need help signing up, call the office at (704) 734-4617. Note: The previous “QuickPay” option is no longer available.
Payment Options:
The City of Kings Mountain accepts: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Venmo, Google Pay, Apple Pay
A transaction fee of 2.95% (minimum $2.95) applies to these payment methods.
You can also pay by eCheck for a $0.95 fee per transaction.
Other Ways to Pay:
• City Hall Kiosk: Pay using any online option or with cash. If you pay with cash, the full amount will be credited to your account, as no change is given.
• Phone Payments: Use the city’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system by calling toll-free (855) 844-0495.
For questions or more information, contact the customer service department at (704) 734-4617 or email customerservice@cityofkm.com.

By Loretta Cozart

Gail Hunter and her husband, Norris Hunter, own Doane’s Carolina Café at 105 S. Cansler St., in Kings Mountain, NC.  “Everyone calls him by his nickname, Doane. We live right here in the great city of Kings Mountain, North Carolina. I’ve been here my whole life. I went to Davidson Elementary, then Central, graduated from Kings Mountain High in 1972, and later attended Gaston College. Doane attended Compact and graduated from Kings Mountain High School back in 1969.
When asked what inspired the couple to open a restaurant, Gale answered, “Doane’s been cooking chicken for 25 years at Bynum Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. One day, someone said, ‘You ought to open a café and serve that chicken.’ We were both retired, and we said, ‘Well, why not?’ Just a few days a week. That was five years ago, October 1.
Cooking for a restaurant takes a lot of work. “We serve fresh whole flounder, straight from the coast, croaker, whiting, and perch. We also serve fried chicken, wings, chicken tenders, corn dogs, and bologna sandwiches. But our thick-cut, bone-in pork chops? That’s our best-seller,” Gale shares with a smile.
“And then there are the sides. You know, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, collard greens, slaw, fries, hushpuppies, fried okra, and those crispy fried green tomatoes. People love my collard greens. For dessert, we offer pound cake and red velvet cake with nuts.
“My mom and dad moved here from Shelby back in 1952 and built our home on Cherokee Street. We had a great neighborhood. You could walk to town to shop; we had lots of stores, including an A&P and B&B Grocery. Folks here knew your name. And they still do,” she said.
“When I was younger, I worked in Gastonia and Charlotte, but I ended up spending my career right here in Kings Mountain at Foote Mineral for 24 years. I'm not used to a big, big, big, big city. Growing up, this was just a tight-knit community.
For Gale and Doane, it’s all about community. “When people walk into our café, it’s like coming home. Old classmates come in, neighbors from back in the day, church friends, young families. And everyone has something in common: good food and good memories.”
Good food brings the community together - always has, always will.

 

The Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort is hosting its “Topping Off Ceremony” on Monday, October 27th at 10:00 a.m., according to a post on the Catawba Nation’s social media page, Meta (Facebook).
This marks the placement of the final structural beam for the casino project. It is a celebration framed as both a cultural milestone and a construction achievement.
The social media post encouraged community members and stakeholders to “Come out and join us!”
A topping off (or topping out) ceremony is a traditional milestone in construction that marks the moment when a building’s structure reaches its highest point. It is both symbolic and celebratory, with roots going back over a thousand years. It signifies the completion of the building’s frame, often when the final steel beam or roof truss is placed. After this, the project shifts from heavy structural work to interior systems and finishes.
The casino is roughly a $1 billion project, spanning 2 million square feet when complete, featuring a 24-story hotel with 385 guest rooms and a casino complex with 4,300 slot machines and 100 table games at full build-out. The facility will include 11 dining outlets, 11 bars with a center bar and sports bar, players’ lounge, 2700-space parking garage, and 800 exterior surface parking spaces.
Opening of the introductory casino (Phase 1) with approximately 1,350 slots, 20–22 table games, a restaurant, bar, and sports betting kiosks is expected in the Spring of 2026, replacing the current temporary facility. The full resort launches in 2027.
To RSVP for the “Topping Off” event, sign up online at https://www.twokingscasino.com/rsvp. RSVP by October 17th.
If you have questions regarding your RSVP, please get in touch with VIP Services at vipservices@twokingscasino.com.
The Two Kings Casino is located at 538 Kings Mountain Boulevard near Exit 5 on Interstate 85, just north of the South Carolina state border.

By Loretta Cozart

Bess Phifer will enjoy her 108th birthday with family and friends on Monday, October 13. As a child, she was called Bess Alice by everyone. Her family attended Antioch Baptist Church, and she attended school in a one-room schoolhouse her mother founded.
She grew up near Kings Mountain National Military Park, but the land was not owned by the National Park back then. Everyone around here just called it the battleground.
When Bess was 12, she attended the one-hundred-fiftieth anniversary of the Battle of Kings Mountain. The year was 1930. President Herbert Hoover was the keynote speaker. Her mother had responsibilities during the celebration, so Bess and her siblings were free to wander.
During an interview with Bess eight years ago for her 100th birthday, she remembered the throngs of people in attendance at the battleground for the celebration. “The President’s speech was good; I remember seeing the speaker’s stand. Most of all,” she said, “I remember having the whole day free with all those people I didn’t know.” She had never seen so many gathered in one place.
After college, Bess became a teacher. During the throes of World War II, she did her part by knitting hats and gloves for servicemen. She even worked in the Charlotte Shell Plant. But her heart called her to do more.
She spoke with her principal when she heard she could support the war effort by serving in the Red Cross overseas. She applied for and was accepted into the Red Cross with his permission. She worked in Hilo and was stationed at a Rest Camp in Hawaii National Park, where soldiers returning from the war were on R&R. Soldiers received five days off to enjoy activities such as golf, crafts, archery, biking, reading, and horseback riding. Bess’s job was to boost morale, and she worked 15-hour days to that end.
   While working in Hawaii, Bess met her future husband, Marriott Phifer, a native of Kings Mountain.  Due to her duties, she didn’t see him much when he was at the camp. When asked if they ever dated in the Pacific, Bess replied, “When they told me they needed me to go to Guam, I got a week off. I spent a right smart time with Marriott that week,” she recalled with a smile.
   The following week, she was in Guam. While there, Bess was assigned to a field hospital processing the troops freed from prison camps. “Most had spent four or five years as prisoners. And to see those fellows…” her voice trailed off. “I stayed up all night trying to process who they were, to gather a little information about them.
   “They looked like death standing… practically every one of them. I had seen a lot of wounded because, in Guam, I stayed at the field hospital. There were 200 to 300 doctors there. I ate in the same places the men ate. In that hospital, all the wounded fellows were there. They couldn’t go home because they were waiting for transportation.
   “All those fellows and no complaints from them,” she pauses. “That was what I noticed the most; they didn’t complain. Some were missing legs and arms. None in the beds could get up.
   “I helped set up a place where the guys could have a magazine to read or listen to the radio. These guys hadn’t had radios or anything like that for years. Some of them didn’t even know who they were.”
   When discharged and on her way stateside, Lieutenant Bess Alice Hambright witnessed General Douglas MacArthur’s signing the Peace Treaty on the USS Missouri. She spent the next 28 days traveling home to her family.
   After the war, she returned home to Hambright Road and married Marriott Phifer in a double wedding with her sister. Together, Bess and Marriott had four children: Dr. Reta Phifer, Doyt Phifer, Connie Savell, and M.D. Phifer Jr., along with one granddaughter, Lesley Phifer.
   Bess served her community, her nation, and all those men who truly needed her most on the Isle of Guam. In every case, she did her job exceptionally well. And those who know her are grateful for her service.
   Happy 108th birthday, Bess Alice!

 

The City of Kings Mountain will host its annual “Great Pumpkin Halloween Parade” on Friday, October 31.  Children, along with their parents, are invited to gather at Cherokee Street Parking at 9:30 am to line up for this spectacular spooky parade. At 10:00 am, the foot parade will travel to the Gazebo at Patriots Park for a howling good time. This event is open to children aged newborn to 4. School groups of children up to the age of seven are also welcome.
Kings Mountain Marketing, Tourism and Events Department, Mauney Memorial Library’s Harris Children’s Department, in cooperation with AAA, Dance Magic Studio, Cleveland County Childcare Connections, and Cleveland County Partnership for Children, will provide entertainment, games, Halloween stories, songs, sing-alongs, and fun for all.
Local merchants are encouraged to dress in costumes to greet the children and hand out candy along the parade route.  Tables will be provided at Patriots Park for businesses to use to give away candy and treats.
Afterwards, children and parents are welcome to stay and play, have a picnic lunch, take photos with the Peanuts gang in Linus’ pumpkin patch, or dine in one of the convenient downtown restaurants.
The parade will start at Cherokee Street parking, continue to Mountain Street, turn left onto the sidewalk at Battleground Avenue, cross Battleground Avenue and South Railroad Avenue, and then move into Patriots Park.
For more information, please call 704-730-2101 or visit our website at www.kingsmountainevents.com.

On September 30, Governor Josh Stein announced that Walmart, Inc. plans to open a new fulfillment center in Kings Mountain and Gaston County. The estimated $300 million investment will create more than 300 new jobs in Gaston County. The 1.2 million-square-foot facility, located at 799 Sara Lee Access Road, is expected to open in 2027. The new jobs are expected to generate an annual payroll impact of more than $20 million in the community.
The new Walmart fulfillment center in Kings Mountain will ship large items, such as patio furniture and lawnmowers, directly to customers as soon as the next day. Walmart, Inc. announced a total investment of $300 million in the project - to include the purchase of the existing Kings Mountain Corporate Center, an additional $58 million to upfit the building, and $90 million in machinery and equipment.
“As our eCommerce business continues to grow, this new fulfillment center will play a critical role in helping us serve customers faster,” said Karisa Sprague, senior vice president. Supply Chain, Walmart U.S. “We’re excited to join the Kings Mountain community and proud to create long-term career opportunities where associates can grow and build their future with Walmart.”
“Our ability to have business-ready locations continues to make Gaston County
 a  top-tier  destination  for companies looking to expand,” Gaston County Board of Commissioner Chairman Chad Brown said. “Having a Walmart subsidiary make such a major investment in our county is a testament to what a special environment we have created here. We’re excited to welcome Walmart Fulfillment Services to the western end of our county and to match them with the workforce they will need to make this investment a complete success.”
   Gaston County competed with locations in South Carolina to secure this project, which was code named Project Self. The Gaston County Board of Commissioners and the City of Kings Mountain have approved a Level Four incentive grant in support of the project. The project is expected to generate substantial ad valorem tax, sales tax, and other revenues for the County while establishing itself as a long-term partner in the community. The project will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) officially awarded to Walmart Fulfillment Services, LLC. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments to a given company.
   The Kings Mountain Corporate Center was developed in a joint venture between The Keith Corporation and Matthews Management, Inc. and was billed as the “largest speculative industrial facility under construction on the East Coast,” when it was being completed in 2023. The facility encompasses 1.2 million square feet and is strategically located on Canterbury Road in Kings Mountain, offering convenient access to Interstate 85 and U.S. 74, an essential advantage for distribution operations.
   “As a city seeking strategic growth opportunities, today is a stellar day to celebrate the power of synergy, and the realization of a project more than a year in the making; one which promises to bring significant new investment and hundreds of quality jobs to our much-deserved community. On behalf of the City of Kings Mountain, we are elated that Walmart Fulfillment Services has chosen to locate its new distribution center in the Kings Mountain Corporate Center facility. We are grateful for all the key partners, both locally and at the state level, who were instrumental in the vision, planning and execution which has made the dream of this project come true,” said Kings Mountain Mayor, Rob Wagman.
   The Gaston County Economic Development Commission would like to welcome Walmart Fulfillment Services to Gaston County and thank our partners in this successful location - the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), the North Carolina Community College System, Gaston College, the Gaston County Board of Commissioners, the City of Kings Mountain, and The Keith Corporation.



 

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain City Council is reviewing a proposal that could significantly alter how bulky waste and yard debris are collected throughout the city. At its September 23 meeting, city staff, including Director of Public Works Zacc Marcile, Inspections and Codes representative Clint Houser, and City Manager Todd Carpenter, presented a proposed update to the city’s solid waste ordinance aimed at streamlining operations, improving efficiency, ensuring fairness, and maintaining cleaner neighborhoods.
Officials emphasized that the presentation was strictly for discussion purposes, and no final vote was taken.
One of the most notable changes involves reassigning responsibility for collecting bulky household and yard waste. Under the proposed ordinance, these items would move from Code Enforcement to the Solid Waste Department. This shift would empower Solid Waste crews to collect items without waiting for residents to pre-schedule pickups.
Another significant update concerns how residents are charged for the removal of bulky waste. Instead of paying in advance, the fees would be automatically added to the monthly utility bill. Staff noted this approach ensures more consistent payments, speeds up service, and reduces administrative delays.
Under the proposed rules, residents must place items in a defined 6-foot curbside zone. If a sidewalk exists, all items must be placed behind the sidewalk.
• Bulky Household Waste includes furniture, appliances, mattresses, etc. You may place the item at the curb the day before your scheduled rollout day.
• Standard collection includes one 5’x5’x5’ pile (125 cu. ft.) for $20.
• Up to two piles (250 cu. ft.) can be collected for $40. However, the second pile is a code violation, subject to civil penalties.
• Anything beyond one pile, or 125 cu. ft. is also a code violation and may be handled through contractor abatement.
• Note: The proposed cost may increase to in the future to reflect rising costs.
• Yard Waste: (loose leaves, limbs, and grass)
• One 5’x5’x5’ pile will be collected free of charge.
• A second similar pile will cost $15 charge on the utility bill and could be subject to a civil penalty.
• Leaf piles can be larger. Leaves are not subject to this stipulation. Additionally, leaves should be loose, not in bags.
• Bulky Yard Waste includes trees, for example. This is the only category that requires advance notice to the city.
• Oversized piles—such as large tree limbs or excessive brush—will require a quote from the city. The resident must pay the fee in advance, and then the city will collect it.
• If the bulky yard waste remains at the curb unpaid,the city could perform the cleanup and place a lien on the property.
 Addressing Repeat
Offenses:
   To encourage compliance, the ordinance includes civil penalties for repeat violators:
• First violation: $50
• Second: $250
• Third and fourth: $500 each
Why It Matters:
   City officials say the proposed changes will deliver faster and more reliable service, since Solid Waste crews are already active on every street each week. This approach also aims to:
• Reduce the wait times for bulky pickups.
• Clarify collection rules, making it easier for residents to understand what can be placed at the curb—and where.
• Improve fairness by ensuring that only those who use the service are billed for it.
• Reduce costs, with the city citing a dramatic difference in cleanup expenses. While contractor abatement currently averages $225 per site, the city estimates it can do the job for just $51 under the new system.
Council & Community Feedback:
• During the discussion, council members raised concerns about potential property damage from heavy equipment, like knuckle boom trucks. Questions concerned how the ordinance would apply to vacant homes and rental properties—staff clarified that charges would go to the utility account holder or property owner.
• There was also a suggestion to add language from state statutes to allow stronger enforcement of civil penalties, possibly including criminal violations.
• City Manager Todd Carpenter reiterated that the focus of the ordinance is not revenue collection, but rather "quick cleanup to beautify the city." Staff are also committed to a robust public education campaign prior to implementation, including the distribution of flyers and notices in utility bills.
   The proposed ordinance will not affect regular household trash, can pickups, or leaf collection schedules. Those services will continue as usual.
What’s Next?
Council members expressed general support for the initiative but indicated more refinement is needed before moving forward. No timeline has been set for a vote.
The proposed changes represent a delicate balance between efficiency, fairness, and accountability, aiming to enhance neighborhood cleanliness while controlling costs for both residents and the city.