(February 24, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain’s Gateway Trail Committee confirmed that their 5K and 10Miler Run are still scheduled for March, but the races will be handled differently this year due to COVID-19. This year’s races mark the 11th year, as all races were cancelled in 2020 due to Coronavirus.
The Trail 5K Run will be held March 13 starting at 9 am. Registration is $20 and ends March 10 at 11:59 pm. Runners will have a staggered start, allowing space between them as a safety precaution. “Runners must start with their masks on and can take them off while on the trail. When the runners return, they must put their mask back on, so it is going to be safe,” according to Kings Mountain Gateway Trail President Shirley Brutko.
The 5K race begins at the Trail Head at 807 Battleground Avenue, Kings Mountain, Lat: 35-13-49 / Long: 81-21-02. As of Saturday, 50 runners had registered. T-shirts are only guaranteed for those who register for the 5K by March 5.
“Race Director Starr Dowell ordered all new equipment that automates the timing of the race. When a runner goes through the gate on Quarry Road, they will have a chip on that will be scanned so we will know the exact time someone starts,” Brutko said. “It will scan them again when they finish. Runners can leave with their chip because they are disposable. So, we will not collect them after the race. Runners are strongly discouraged from gathering afterward. We ask that they just finish and leave.”
There is no reason for runners to gather because the winners are not being announced after the race.
 That evening, the winners will be announced on the Gateway Trail Facebook Page.
The 10Miler is scheduled between March 1 – 12, and runners report on the honor system. Registration is $20. Each runner runs by themselves from Quarry Road to Galilee Church Road, and back. They must report their time to Starr no later than midnight on March 13. T-shirts are not provided for this race. As of Saturday, 18 had registered for this event.
All winners of both runs will pick up their trophies at the Arts Center on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Saturday, March 16 through March 20. There will be a few members from the Gateway Trail Committee there handing out trophies. The trophies are unique pieces of pottery made by members of the Gateway Trail Committee.
If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director starr@finishwelltiming.com. 

(February 24, 2021 Issue)

On February 18, at 11:45 pm, the Gaston County Police 911 Center received a report of a shooting at Lowery Wood Rd. and Lewis Farm Rd. in Kings Mountain.
Upon arrival, officers found two males, Robert Lucas (Luke) Gibby, 22 years old, and Adam Kale Wood, 19 years old, near the intersection deceased.
Approximately two hours later, another male, Todd Payton Lee Waggoner, 21 years old, entered Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem with non-life threatening injuries. This male reported to have been at the scene earlier in the night.
Through an on-going investigation, a suspect has been identified. Warrants have been obtained for 2 counts of first degree murder and 1 count of attempted 1st degree murder on:
Michael Shane Barnes, white male,19, of Taylorsville, NC. He is described as 5’ 8” with sandy hair and blue eyes.
Barnes is considered armed and dangerous. The public is cautioned not to interact with Barnes.  Instead they are encouraged to contact 911.
The Gaston County Police ask anyone with information about this investigation to contact Gaston County Police Detective J. Brienza at 704-866-3320.  Information can also be provided through Crimestoppers at 704-861-8000. A monetary reward is available for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of Barnes.
This is an on-going investigation. There is no further information to be released at this time.

(February 24, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Two local Kings Mountain Police officers will benefit from fundraising events being held on their behalf in March. A year ago, Officer Skinner was injured in the line of duty and is still recovering. In December Cpl. Lee Whittington was shot after responding to a call near Kings Mountain County Club.
A Back the Blue Cookout event will be held at the Cleveland County Courthouse on March 6 from noon until 6 pm by Trudie Wilson and Elmer Obovie to support both men. Donations are accepted and will be given to the families.
Lisa Cash has organized a second Back the Blue event for Officer Skinner
on March 13 from noon to 5 pm at American Legion Post 155 on East Gold Street in Kings Mountain. Hot dog plates, chips, desserts,, and a drink will be available for a donation. Police, Fire, and EMT eat for free. Raffle items will also be available, and tickets are 1 for $5, or 3 for $10. All the proceeds go directly to Officer Skinner’s family.
The community is encouraged to show their support for the Officer Skinner and his family by coming by throughout the afternoon. Contact Lisa Cash at 704-685-2930 with questions.

(February 24, 2021 Issue)

Artists are invited to express their interpretation of the feminine and compete for prizes in Southern Arts Society’s annual “I AM WOMAN” exhibit. This is a judged show with first, second and third place prizes along with three merit awards. Though the exhibit and competition focuses on the feminine or female experience, both men and women may enter work for the show, allowing for a variety of viewpoints to be expressed.
All work must be original, completed within the last two years. Painting (oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel), drawing, sculpture, printmaking, photography, mixed media, and fiber are eligible. Two-dimensional work is restricted to 48" by 48" including frame. Please read the prospectus/entry form on our website CALL TO ARTIST page for entry specifications http://southernartssociety.org/call-to-artists/.    All work will be accepted unless it does not meet our criteria. Entry Fees apply.
Deliver Art: Deliver artwork February 23-25 during gallery hours 10 am – 2 pm and Saturday February 27 from 11 am – 4 pm and Sunday February 28 from 1-4 pm.
Public Reception: Saturday March 13, 2021 from 6-8 pm; Awards presented at 7 pm (dependent on COVID restrictions).
Exhibit dates: “I AM WOMAN” will be on exhibit March 3 thru April 16, 2021.
Southern Arts Society (SASi) Gift Shop & Gallery is located at 301 N. Piedmont Ave. at the intersection of Piedmont and Battleground Avenues, Kings Mountain, NC, in the historic Southern Railway Depot. SASi offers a gift shop, ongoing exhibits and art competitions, programs, and classes in a variety of media for artists of all levels. GALLERY HOURS: Tues-Wed-Thurs-Sat 10 am – 2 pm and by appointment.
Information: Ph 704.739.5585 Email southernartssociety@gmail.com

(February 24, 2021 Issue)

SHIIP, the Senior’s Health Insurance Information Program, is a division of the NC Department of Insurance that offers free, objective information about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare prescription drug plans, Medicare fraud and abuse, and long-term care insurance.
SHIIP will conduct a free seminar entitled: Welcome to Medicare – Zoom Seminar presented by the Patrick Senior Center on Tuesday, March 9 from 5:30 – 7 pm. Call the Patrick Senior Center to register and receive the Zoom link.
To register, call 704-734-0447. For additional information, contact Lynn Lail.

(February 17, 2021 Issue)

Last week, National Park Service (NPS) South Atlantic-Gulf Regional Director Stan Austin announced the selection of Diana Bramble as the new Superintendent of South Carolina’s Cowpens National Battlefield and Kings Mountain National Military Park, effective March 14.
In her role, Bramble will also oversee management of Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and Ninety Six National Historic Site. Bramble has managed the four units on temporary assignment since September.
“Diana brings experience caring for iconic landmarks with complex operations and stories critical to America’s advancement as a democratic society,” Austin said. “As we prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, Diana is wholly committed to protecting the parks’ treasured resources and enhancing collaboration with staff, visitors, partners and gateway communities.”
Bramble said, “I am incredibly grateful to have been selected for this opportunity. The staff here are profoundly dedicated to their work as caretakers of America’s heritage. It is an honor to help lead the park as a team towards an exciting future with many opportunities for partnership and engagement in anticipation of the 250th commemoration of America’s founding.”
Bramble began her NPS career in 2011 as the supervisory horticulturist for Rock Creek Park in Washington, DC, with responsibility for horticulture, arboriculture, and grounds management. Four years later, she became chief of maintenance at National Capital Parks-East, where she has managed the entire facility operations and project management portfolio for a vast set of resources spanning 8,000 acres, including historic homes, commuter parkways, earthen and masonry fortifications, working farms, marinas, and a campground. Prior to joining NPS, Bramble worked six years at the Smithsonian Institution as a horticulturist.
Originally from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Bramble holds a Bachelor of Science degree in natural resources from University of Maryland and a Master of Professional Studies in sustainable landscape design from George Washington University. She is a graduate of the NPS Facility Manager Leaders Program and now serves as a program mentor. In 2019, Bramble was awarded the NPS National Capital Area Facility Manager of the Year honor.
Outside of work, Bramble enjoys spoiling her niece and nephews, spending time outdoors, traveling and strength training.

(February 17, 2021 Issue)

Families of public school students in North Carolina could choose in-classroom learning under legislation passed by the state House of Representatives in a bipartisan 74-44 vote on Thursday. After passing the state House, the legislation will return to the North Carolina Senate for further consideration.
Senate Bill 37 In-Person Learning Choice for Families lets students continue remote learning if they choose and directs North Carolina schools to provide in-classroom instruction. The bill is supported by more than $1.6 billion in new funds sent to public schools in separate legislation signed by the Governor this week.
The state legislature also fully-funded state per-pupil allotments for schools, promised to “hold harmless” education budgets regardless of enrollment drops, and provided teacher salary step increases during the pandemic, in addition to the new federal funds.
Rep. Jeffrey Elmore (R-Wilkes), a public school teacher and co-chair of the House Appropriations Committee, said the legislation provides families
 certainty in education and economic planning.
“Currently our students are subject to shifting executive orders and mixed messages from the administration which have created confusion and led to local delays, making it very difficult for parents to plan for their jobs and their child’s education,” Rep. Elmore said Thursday.
   “This legislation gives North Carolina families certainty and access to classrooms by combining over a billion dollars of new education funding with local decision-making to implement a return to in-person learning now.”
   Speaker Tim Moore (R-Cleveland) said that current restrictions keeping students out of the classroom are forcing parents to miss work or seek education alternatives, and the legislation gives school systems flexibility to adjust student assignments for in-person learning.
   “Closing schools has burdened North Carolina families economically while young people fall behind in their studies, producing a devastating impact on student achievement and exacerbating socieconomic disparities,” Moore said Thursday.
   “We are listening to educators, healthcare experts, parents, and most importantly our students, who have a constitutional right to access education communities that serve their academic needs.”
   “I appreciate the leadership of my colleagues getting North Carolina students back into the classroom with legislation that builds on powerful funding for our schools and provides flexibility to adjust student assignments as needed.”
   The General Assembly provided $335 grants to families of school-age children to assist with increased child-care costs, but experts agree that closed classrooms hurt vulnerable young people the most and widen education gaps between low-income and affluent students. Special education students are hit particularly hard by the loss of in-person learning.
   Expert medical guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control, the Harvard School of Public Health, and other leading healthcare organizations demonstrates that there is limited risk of infection in education settings that are prepared safely.

(February 17, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart
City Council unanimously approved a $12.02 million dollar Capital Project Ordinance during an Energy Utilities Update in its January 26 meeting. The ordinance for improvements to the electric system infrastructure of the City of Kings Mountain which consists of the construction of an additional Delivery 5 electrical distribution substation and transmission lines that will be installed that will serve the new Delivery 5. Also, there will be six (6) new distribution lines that will come from the substation that will tie into existing distribution lines that are served from other existing City electric substations. The resolution authorizes the Mayor to execute a resolution Declaring Official Intent to Reimburse pursuant to United Treasury Regulations.
“This project has nothing to do with the casino and we are doing this work without a rate increase to customers,” said Assistance City Manager/Energy Services Director Nick Hendricks. The project is generally being funded through wholesale electric savings we have experienced when switching to the Kings Mountain Energy Center Power Plant. “We are preparing for anticipated growth in that area as well as addressing our general growth." To date our existing three substations general capacity at peak is as follows: Gaston St: (95%), York Rd: (100%) and Margrace Rd. (90%). The new Delivery 5 will assist in freeing up the load at other station as well as providing shorter circuits therefore assisting in electric reliability.
This ordinance includes improvements to the electric system infrastructure of the City of Kings Mountain which consists of the construction of an additional substation (Delivery 5) and transmission lines to the substation and distribution lines from the substation totaling $9.02 million.
The following revenues are anticipated to be available to complete these projects:
Proceeds from debt issuance    $9,020,000
Transfers from
other funds-Electric    $3,000,000
Total    $12,020,000
The following amounts are appropriated in the fund:
Capital Outlay-Delivery    $3,015,000
Capital Outlay-Substation    $4,600,000
Capital Outlay-Distribution    $1,405,000
Transfers to other
funds-Electric    $3,000,000
Total    $12,020,000
Essentially, the city plans to use $3,000,000 from the Electric Fund and will finance the entire project at a later date. At that time they will apply for the entire project cost of $12.02 million and will reimburse the Electric Fund at that time. “This is a common practice many municipalities use,” according to Hendricks.
Other items from the report share that Benestar Brands has begun grading at a fast pace. “We are excited because Benestar could be, should be based upon our load numbers, the largest natural gas user 4x larger than our current largest client, which is astronomical,” said  Hendricks.
Hendricks also reported the completion of two projects: Kings Mountain Blvd. Project and the Floyd Street Project.
Kings Mountain Blvd. was completed, and all engineering, design, and easements were handled by staff in-house. This project eliminated back ally exposure by moving Kings Mountain Intermediate School and Life Enrichment Center to the new line on Kings Mountain Blvd. The project included 4000 feet of three phase electric primary circuit construction within the NCDOT 140 foot right-of-way, installation of 20 45-foot poles spaced 200 feet apart, and two 3-phase aerial crossings.
The Floyd Street Project includes work along I-85 to Woodlake Parkway and Canterbury Road. An extension of the Industrial circuit provides better reliability and re-routing flexibility, and to serve new economic projects on Woodlake Parkway and Canterbury Road to extend mainline circuit to connect to new build. The project has added new LED lighting on Floyd Street. Additional new LED roadway lighting on Canterbury Road and Woodlake Parkway will take place once the new electric distribution line is completed.
The next step is to cross the road in front of Firestone and connect at Canterbury Road to an existing line. This gives the city a total redundant loop, back feed, served by two substations.
“The Sarah Lee Road project been planned, engineered, and right-of-way obtained by in-house staff. The city will not put additional funds toward this until that particular project becomes more solidified,” Hendricks concluded, “Once we move forward with this project, we will be placing an existing wastewater pump facility that is connected to Duke Energy and connect it to City electric infrastructure.”

(February 17, 2021 Issue)

The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office is revitalizing the Neighborhood Watch program in all communities throughout the county. Our mission is to build upon the original concepts of Neighborhood Watch, by using all available resources to create a proactive community-police partnership to help prevent crime and solve problems on our communities.
The Neighborhood Watch program is a crime prevention program that enlists the active participation of citizens in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime in our neighborhoods.
If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch program in your community, please contact Captain Bryan Gordon 704-484-4832.

(February 11, 2021 Issue)

By January Costa

Kings Mountain Historical Museum invites the public to mark the calendar for their upcoming exhibit, STITCHED: The Fabrics of a Community. The exhibit is on display February 16 – May 8 and open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is free.
What does the term stitched mean? It is the process of making, mending, or joining with stitches. In relation to textiles, people have been sewing in one form or another, for thousands
of years, with evidence that  suggests even up to 20,000 years ago.
Throughout history, it was a common task for people to make their own quilts, coverlets, clothes, and many other everyday objects by hand stitching. Over time, improved sewing techniques led to the invention of the sewing machine, and machine stitching. This exhibit showcases a selection of stitched examples from the museum collections that were produced by members of the community in Kings Mountain.
The hanging coverlet was made in the 1930s. This thin coverlet is designed in the “Grandmother’s Fan” pattern. It consists of 48 blocks and has a blue wide band trim along all four sides. This piece belonged to Nancy Nickels (1925-2020) and was likely made by her aunt Estelle Willeford King (1892-1981) or mother, Eloise Willeford Nickels (1895-1983). On loan by Mary “Pucky” Nantz.
The display shows a quilt made between 1894-1933. This is a “Tulip” pattern quilt. It is made of white material (now faded) on the front and has designs of purple and pink tulips on the front with green vines. The reverse side is pink and bare, with no design. This quilt was owned and made by Myrtle Kathleen Baker Neisler (1894-1933) of Kings Mountain, N.C.  Donated by the Neisler Family.
This event will adhere to social distancing protocols and guidelines in place at the time of the event. Masks and temperature checks will be required upon entry to the museum.

(February 3, 2021 Issue)

Wish your sweetheart a Happy Valentine’s Day by purchasing a personalized Valentine Gram from the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department.
For $20.00, this special Valentine Gram will be displayed February 10th - 14th on the new media screen at Patriots Park.
“Love is sweet and so is this opportunity,” said Christy Conner, Special Events Director for the City of Kings Mountain. “Showcase your special someone on the new media screen with a personalized Valentine Gram in a super-sized way!”
Deadline for purchasing a Valentine Gram is Monday, February 8th. For more information or to purchase a Valentine Gram, please contact the City of Kings Mountain Special Events Department at 704-730-2101 or e-mail the department at angela.padgett@cityofkm.com.

(February 3, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

On January 17, Paul James Candle Co. opened for business at 807 Cleveland Avenue, next door to Linwood Produce. Proprietors Paul Mykel Baker and James Alex Baker used their first names to brand their business. They moved to Kings Mountain with hopes of opening a business this year. Thanks to the help of many, their dream came true a little earlier than expected.
The Baker’s specialize in healing candles made of 100% pure soy, essential oils, and vitamins A, D, and E. “When the candle wax melts, you can spread it on dry skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, and even new tattoos to heal it,” he explains. “It doesn’t leave a greasy residue and our candles contain no alcohol or harmful additives. Aside from that, we also carry essential oils, body butter, goat’s milk soap, honey soap, and wax melts, all made with natural ingredients. And our products are reasonably priced compared to the large box stores,” Michael said.
In two weeks, the shop will add holistic products containing almost 100 percent natural ingredients such as herbs, plant extracts, phytonutrients and
antioxidants, and essential oils. In addition, they intend to add metaphysical items as well. “Nobody offers items like this in Cleveland County, so we’ve decided to include those lines because customers have been asking for them,” Mykel said.
The store also offers custom made furniture; signage; local artwork; and jewelry, including diffuser necklaces and bracelets. “With the exception of just a few items, everything in the store is made locally. We strongly believe is supporting local artists and the community through our work,” Michael adds. “We are excited to open our shop in Kings Mountain and invite everyone to stop by and say hello.”

(February 3, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

American Legion Post 155 announces its monthly Veteran’s Breakfast is this Saturday morning, February 6, from 9 am to 11 am at the Otis D. Green Post home on East Gold Street.
All veterans are invited to this free breakfast the first Saturday of each month. Guests can dine-in or carry-out their meal. Selections include eggs, bacon, liver mush, gravy, grits, biscuits, toast, coffee, and juice.
The gathering is an opportunity for the community to support local veterans by joining them for a meal and visiting with them in fellowship. Non-veterans are asked to make a small donation to offset the cost of the meal, enabling American Legion Post to continue the program on a monthly basis.

(February 3, 2021 Issue)

Effective Friday, January 29, the Cleveland County Public Health Center’s COVID Vaccine Appointment Line (980-484-6019) will be open every Friday from 1 pm – 5 pm for the clinic(s) that will be held the following week based on our dosage allocation from the state.
Since vaccine rollout began, vaccine allocation from the State of North Carolina has been extremely unpredictable which has caused Cleveland County Government to have to shift and adjust on an almost daily basis.
Last week, counties across North Carolina had a call with North Carolina Secretary of Health and Human Services Mandy Cohen who apologized to counties for not being transparent with the dose allocation disbursement model. They committed to counties to give dose allocations three weeks in advance. However, during this call, counties were also told weekly dose allocations across the state will be limited, with only 84,000 vaccine doses being shared amongst all approved providers in 100 counties based on population. 
Due to this change, Cleveland County anticipates only receiving a very limited number of vaccine doses moving forward. As a result, county officials made the decision to transition from mailing letters to notify of appointments to scheduling appointments by phone call in an effort to get their limited doses to eligible
 individuals as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“Every call is important to us and all volumes are incredibly high. If you receive a busy signal, please continue to call back. Once all available appointments are filled for that week, the phone lines will be closed, and you will receive an automated message stating all appointments have been filled,” said Deputy Health Director DeShay Oliver.
   Dawn Neisler confirmed having difficulty getting through to the Cleveland County Public Health Center. “You have to be persistent and not give up. It took 317 attempts before the call finally went through and I was able to schedule Scott’s appointment.”
Cleveland County Public Health is only able to schedule as many appointments as their vaccine dosage allocation will allow, as they do not want to schedule appointments and then not have enough vaccine to cover them. A number of NC counties had to call thousands of people to cancel their appointments because they did not receive the number of vaccines they hoped to receive.
“We have had many people express the desire for us to place them on a waiting list. If we did this, the waiting list would very quickly grow to having thousands of people on it. With our current low weekly dose allocations, it would take us months to work our way through this list,” Oliver said.
  “We are aware that many residents are being vaccinated outside of Cleveland County. Scheduling weekly appointments based on vaccine dose allocations guarantees that those who sign up will attend the event.  In addition, because many individuals sixty-five (65) and older do not have access to the Internet, making appointments by phone seems to be the most equitable way of scheduling appointments under our current circumstances.”
Should the county be re-allocated additional vaccine doses from their partners at Atrium Health, the county will also host pop-up clinics. They expect this to happen on a limited basis; follow the Cleveland County Public Health Center’s and Cleveland County Government’s Facebook page for information about these pop-up clinics.
Residents who have access to transportation are encouraged to look for mass vaccination events across the state. The county will share these opportunities on social media sites as they become aware of them.
   Oliver asks, “Please be patient. With 19,000 residents 65 and older and weekly dosage allocations of less than 750, this will take time. Cleveland County is committed to ensuring that every dose received is given in a timely manner.” 

(January 27, 2021 Issue)

The Catawba Nation and the State of North Carolina signed a compact Friday, January 22, that allows the state to share in revenues generated by the new Two Kings Casino Resort, which will be located in the City of Kings Mountain, Cleveland County, NC. The casino will be operated by the Catawbas, according to a press release from the Catawba Nation Office of Tribal Government.
“On behalf of the Catawba Nation, I sincerely thank Governor Roy Cooper and his team for their thoughtful collaboration in creating this compact, which is the key step in bringing economic benefits and thousands of jobs from our casino project to the citizens of North Carolina,” said Catawba Chief Bill Harris.
Chief Harris continued, “I would also like to thank Secretary of State Elaine Marshall and Attorney General Josh Stein for their review and signoff of the compact. With work on the compact completed, we will advance the project from the site preparation phase to vertical construction of an introductory casino gaming facility to open this Fall.”
In March 2020, the U.S. Department of the Interior, following a thorough, years-long review, took 17 acres of land into trust status in Cleveland County, North Carolina, for the Catawba Nation. The action recognized the Catawba Nation’s historical and ancestral ties to its aboriginal lands throughout North Carolina, as evidenced by names such as Catawba County and Catawba College, as well as in the six counties, including Cleveland County, specifically identified by Congress as part of the Catawba’s service area. The compact acknowledges this connection to North Carolina as well.
In addition to creating revenue for the State of North Carolina, the casino will help fund a Catawba-backed education fund that will benefit environmental conservation, provide educational support for members of federal and state recognized tribes and support local communities “to assist in economic development for public services, recreation, entertainment and community economic development and foster employment opportunities on or near Catawba Indian lands”, among other things.
Upon hearing the news of the compact, Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler stated, “Kings Mountain will become a major economic engine in North Carolina. We look forward to creating thousands of good jobs for our hardworking local people. We thank the Catawba Nation for extending their hand of partnership in making this dream a reality.”
Cleveland County Officials also commend the signing of the compact. “We support the State of North Carolina recognizing the casino project’s tremendous economic benefit to Cleveland County. We are pleased that a compact has been signed that establishes a collaborative partnership with this tribe and the State of North Carolina,” said Cleveland County Manager Brian Epley.
What is a compact and what does it mean to the project? Under federal law (the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act) there are three forms of gaming, Class I (which are traditional and social games subject only to Tribal authority), Class II (with are various forms of bingo subject only to Tribal and Federal authority), and Class III (which are all other forms of gaming--generally casino-type gaming--which is subject to Tribal, State and Federal authority). While the Catawba Indian Nation can move forward on the development of Class I and II gaming, it must negotiate a Class III gaming compact with the State in order to have Class III gaming. That compact then must be approved by the Department of the Interior.
North Carolina and the Catawba Indian Nation have reached agreement on a Class III gaming compact that establishes a regulatory framework for the Nation’s Class III gaming activities, protects public safety and provides for certain payments to the State and to a community foundation. That compact will now go to the Department of Interior for final review and approval. It is not anticipated that this compact will pose any special difficulties as it is closely modelled after a compact that Interior has approved for another Tribal Nation.
The payments to the State are similar to what is provided in the Cherokee Compact. There are three streams of funds that benefit the state and surrounding communities, as well as tax benefits from the casino/resort activities:
 • For an exclusive right for live table gaming in certain counties the state will receive a percentage of the Nation’s live table gaming revenue that is projected to eventually reach $5-10 million/year.
 • To defray the State’s costs associated with sports and horse wagering oversight a flat fee of $191,000. –
 • To be transferred to a foundation for the benefit of the Catawba, other state and federally recognized tribes, and the local community an amount that begins at $1 million/year, but on full development will reach $7.5 million/year.
 • Tax generation. The casino/resort will generate may millions in state tax revenues through vendor and employee taxation. In addition, the Nation has agreed to make payments in lieu of taxes to Cleveland County.

(January 27, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Last week Kings Mountain residents received mailers urging them to contact elected officials and oppose the proposed Catawba casino. Several people who received these materials reached out to the Herald asking, “Who is DefendNC and why are they mailing me.”
At its website, DefendNC explains that it is “an initiative launched and funded by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and supported by like-minded North Carolina stakeholders who oppose the unwanted casino in Kings Mountain.” DefendNC calls on Governor Roy Cooper and Attorney General Josh Stein “to defend North Carolina from the threat this unwanted casino poses to our state and economy,” a comment attributed to Principal Chief Richard Sneed.
The organization sent two types of mailers to Kings Mountain residents. If you live near the casino site, you probably received a packet encouraging you to mail included letters, stamped and ready to mail, to Governor Roy Cooper and Attorney General Josh Stein asking them to oppose the casino in Kings Mountain. Other residents were sent postcards asking them to reach out to elected officials and oppose the project.
At DefendNC.com, the group shares, “DefendNC is leading a growing movement of North Carolina elected officials, communities, residents, and organizations who oppose the shady casino deal that is a bad deal for Kings Mountain, Western North Carolina, and the state.”
Essentially, DefendNC and NC Policy watch, a project of the NC Justice Center, are lobbyists encouraging citizens to write local and state legislators to support their cause in opposing the Catawba casino. NC Policy Watch solicits online donations which can be made at their website. Supporters are asked to “help us continue to expand our aggressive reporting and thoughtful commentaries.
 Make a tax-deductible financial contribution today and count yourself among thousands ensuring real news is reported.” Yet, neither DefendNC nor NC Policy Watch are registered with the NC Secretary of State as lobbyists. Neither are listed as non-profits, either. If you donate by check, you are asked to write the check out to the NC Justice Center in Raleigh, using their address.
   The NC Justice Center describes their organization writing, “We have a better sense of our capability and strength. We know—more than ever—what a significant role each of us can play in building a more progressive state. One that stands by individuals from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender identity, income, sexual orientation, country of origin, immigration status, religion, disability, or history of incarceration. We hope you’ll join us on this journey to a kinder, better, and wiser North Carolina.”
It is interesting to note DefendNC uses NC Policy Watch’s articles to argue against the proposed casino, citing a study about Cherokee’s Harrah’s Casino. They conclude, “Jackson and Swain counties have been home to a thriving and expanding Cherokee casino for more than 20 years. But the latest census data shows they are not significantly better off than Cleveland County. By some measures, they’re doing worse.”
The argument was written specifically about the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, using their situation in Western NC to argue against the proposed casino in Kings Mountain. Their argument does not take into consideration the improved economy since 2010 or the proximity of the proposed casino site to major highways and cities within a one to two-hour drive.
DefendNC claims to be supported by North Carolina elected officials, communities, residents, and organizations who oppose the casino deal. Kings Mountain City Council Member Keith Miller and Mayor of Lattimore, Reverend Alton Beal have signed their support to DefendNC in opposition of the casino.
If a casino is such a bad deal for a community, why do so many communities and organizations around Cherokee in Western North Carolina support the Eastern Band of Cherokee in this effort? Those listed as supporters on DefendNC’s website include Buncombe County, Cherokee County, Clay County, Graham County, Haywood County, Jackson County, Macon County, Swain County, Town of Bryson City, Town of Murphy, Council of Independent Business Owners, North Carolina Family Policy Council, and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.
The answer can be found on DefendNC’s website itself, “Our local and state economies are struggling right now. The last thing we need is a new threat to the economic well-being of communities in western North Carolina. And that’s exactly what this proposed casino would do.” So the issue comes down to money, plain and simple.
Last October, DefendNC took their argument a step further making the issue personal and accusing Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler of supporting the project for personal gain. With the latest round of accusations from DefendNC, both in mailings and online, Mayor Neisler responded:
“Because of the mailers and calls, I have found it necessary to comment on the recent bombardment of our citizens by Defend NC. The group represents the Cherokee tribe. People in Kings Mountain are smarter than to fall for the outright false statements of this non-registered lobby group concerning this project. They state that a casino is a shady deal, so I guess Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is shady deal too! Maybe they should explain what it has done for them. It has dramatically lifted up the Cherokee people. Defend NC and the Cherokee tribe are trying to stop the Catawbas from prospering like the Cherokees have for years. It’s a money thing!”
“Also, Defend NC would have you believe that the City of Kings Mountain has the authority to stop the Catawba from establishing an entertainment complex here in our area,” he shared.
“The City never had, or will ever have, the decision up or down towards approving this entertainment project. The land has already been approved and granted to the Catawbas solely by the federal government.”
 He went on to share, “In conclusion, I hope this has cleared up the misconception of the city’s role. Defend NC has no problem smearing anything or anybody to protect the monopoly of the Cherokee Casino. My main concern, and it will always be my concern, is for the City of Kings Mountain to benefit from this economic opportunity and I’ll assure you that it is not for me or my family’s financial gain.”
The discussion continued Sunday, when DefendNC posted another comment directed to the Mayor saying, “Kings Mountain residents are calling and emailing you and the City Council because they are justifiably concerned. On Tuesday, the Council may vote to rezone a large amount of land, based on little more than the assurances of an indicted developer, Wallace Cheves.”
   In response, Mayor Neisler said, “I agree that our citizens are justifiably concerned, and I don’t mind addressing those concerns. It’s my job. But you have falsely smeared me and my family plus misled people thinking we have the power to stop the casino. So where does your truth start?”
   “I’ll assure you that we have defended our city’s interest and in doing so it gives us the opportunity to get housing we don’t currently offer. Something you seek to deny us obtaining. I really do understand why you seek to be involved in our affairs. Preserving the monopoly the Cherokee’s currently possess. We will always be the best at determining our own destiny not Defend NC,” Mayor Neisler said.

(January 27, 2021 Issue)

County Facebook pages keep citizens updated

A COVID-19 vaccination clinic was held at Kings Mountain Intermediate School on January 23 and 850 Kings Mountain residents 65 and over were mailed information as to the location and time. It was not an open drive-thru clinic. Residents receiving the letter were asked to bring their letter and arrive at their scheduled time.
   In a Facebook post after the event, Elizabeth Anne Tate wrote, “My mom is 87. She got a letter this past Thursday giving her a time for her vaccine at KM Intermediate School. (It was) so well organized, smooth as could be. From entrance, until 15 min wait after vaccine was given, took less  than 30 minutes. Great job by all, and much appreciated.”
Cleveland County’s roll-out of the vaccine was shared on their Facebook page on January 19, “Please call the COVID Vaccine helpline at 980-484-6019 or email covid.vaccine@clevelandcountync.gov to make an appointment. If you are unable to secure a spot for this week’s clinics and you qualify for Group 2, you will be eligible for an upcoming drive through vaccination clinic over the next few weeks – depending on dosage allocation from NCDHHS. Please continue to look for a letter in the mail in addition to regularly checking the Cleveland County Health Department’s Facebook page.”
Gaston County COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic is being held weekly at Gastonia Farmer’s Market, 410 E Long Ave. For more information, can call the Gaston County Vaccine Clinic Pre-registration line: 704-866-3170. Representatives will be available 8 am -5 pm, Monday to Friday to help.
North Carolina’s COVID-19 County Alert System currently shows that 99 counties are now listed as red or orange. Eighty-six counties are red with critical community spread of COVID-19 and 13 are orange with substantial community spread.
As of January last Saturday, 7,181 Coronavirus cases were reported within a 24-hour period and 3,416 North Carolinians were hospitalized.
   In Cleveland County, 8,917 people have gotten the virus since the pandemic began and has had 175 COVID-related deaths. Kings Mountain has experienced 2,536 cases and 79 deaths, so far. In a Facebook announcement on January 22, Cleveland County Health Department posted, “There are currently 41 Cleveland County residents who are hospitalized.”
   Citizens eligible to get the vaccine include health care workers and long-term care staff and residents and adults 65 and over.
   North Carolina’s Secretarial Directive remains in effect, and with COVID-19 positive cases, percent of cases that are positive and hospitalizations remaining high, citizens are asked to:
    •    Wear a mask at all times and maintain physical distance (at least 6 feet) from people when you leave your home.
    •    Stay home. Only go out for essential activities like work, school, health care, or caring for family, or buying food.
    •    Avoid gathering with people that you do not live with. If you cannot avoid being with other people, stay outside and keep it very small. Do not do things where you need to take off your mask, like eating or drinking.
    •    If you were with people who you do not live with, you should assume you may have become infected and get tested.

(January 20, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

A crowd gathered at the new location of JACK & georgia, a young woman’s clothing and accessories boutique located at 209 S. Battleground Avenue in Kings Mountain, just before 10 am on Saturday, January 16.
Thirty women, excited for the store’s new location and a special discount offered to early shoppers, looked through the windows to see the newest offerings made available by proprietor Emily Harris.
When asked about her new location, Harris said, “I love being on main street now. It is a lot different where we are here on main street; it is completely different even though we are in a small town. It’s exciting; it’s a big deal, especially in an historic town like Kings Mountain.”
“We had a better turnout than I expected, really, especially when you open at 10 am… you just don’t know what to expect.” Harris pauses to thank customers for coming in, then continues, “Of course, we had people come from all over town, but people came from Florida, South Carolina, and all over come up and that was really cool. Being able to see that reaction was really nice on opening day. It’s been a good day, so far.”
When asked if she added new lines or products, Harris said, “We just got to expand our inventory. It is  probably five to six times more than we used to carry, because we have so much more space. We have new pieces, due to constant turnover, and new offerings as they are released.”
The store sets a new bar for Kings Mountain shops, with clean lines and a feminine flair. Above a pink sofa near the dressing rooms, a pink neon sign reads, “You’re Like Really Pretty.” As to the décor, Harris said, “When you first open, you do what you can. With this move, I got to make it what I always wanted it to be now that I have finally gotten into the door in town. I’m really excited!”
The shop includes cute tops, bottoms, sweaters, shoes, swimwear, outerwear, and accessories for young women. New inventory arrives every Tuesday, for those who keep up with the most current fashion trends.

(January 20, 2021 Issue)

An event to support Cpl. Lee Whittington is scheduled for Saturday, January 23 from noon to 6 pm. It will be held at Central United Methodist Church, 112 S. Piedmont Avenue, across from the Kings Mountain Police Department.
Hamburger and hot dog plates with fries and a drink will be available for a donation. The event is hosted by Elmer Oboyle.
All plates are available by donations only. Tumblers and shirts will also be available. Proceeds will go to Cpl. Lee Whittington of Kings Mountain Police Department, the officer injured in the line of duty last December. 

(January 20, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Paul James Candle Co. held a soft opening Sunday at 807 Cleveland Avenue, right next door to Linwood Produce. Owners Michael Baker and partner James Baker moved to Kings Mountain last December from Conover with plans to open a business later this year. Thanks to several fortunate occurrences, the date was moved up to January 17.
“A friend of mine, Cinnamon, works for Keith Falls and a home he owns became available, so we came to Kings Mountain to see it. I met Keith Falls and before we knew it, we were moving to Kings Mountain. Everyone we have met has been so welcoming and friendly,” Michael said. “Keith has a heart of gold and helps people. I have only lived here short time, but I can see what a caring person his is toward others. As luck would have it, this shop was also available, and everyone encouraged us to open the business. Keith helped make that happen.”
The Baker’s specialize in healing candles made of 100% pure soy, essential oils, and vitamins A, D, and E. “When the candle wax melts, you dab your finger
in the wax and spread it on dry skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, and even new tattoos to heal the skin,” he explains. “It doesn’t leave a greasy residue and our candles contain no alcohol or harmful additives. Aside from that, we also carry essential oils, body butter, goat’s milk soap, honey soap, and wax melts, all made with natural ingredients. And our prices are reasonably priced compared to the large box stores,” Michael said.
The store also offers custom made furniture; signage; local artwork; and jewelry, including diffuser necklaces and bracelets. “With the exception of just a few items, everything in the store is made locally. We strongly believe is supporting local artists and the community through our work,” Michael adds. “We are excited to open our shop in Kings Mountain and invite everyone to stop by and say hello.” Hours for the business are Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 am to 6 pm.

(January 13, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

On Saturday, January 9, Kings Mountain Ministerial Association held a Community Prayer Rally at Patriots Park Gazebo at noon. The day after Kings Mountain’s first snow of the year, a small crowd gathered as spiritual leaders from across the city, and beyond, joined in praying for first responders in the community. The prayers were heartfelt and are summarized here so that all who missed the event might hear their words and remember the first responders.
Pastor Ron Caulder, Pastor of Eastside Baptist Church and President of the KM Ministerial Association opened the prayer event saying, “We have a sovereign God; we have been through some very difficult times over the last 10 months. We certainly need Him in the hour we are living in here today. We come to praise His holy name and pray for people who are special to us who are helping us to get through this pandemic and praying for the Lord’s deliverance. In time, the Lord will deliver us.”
Dr. Jonathan Bundon, Worship Pastor at First Baptist Church led the group in song, singing the Lord’s Prayer to begin the prayer rally.
Rev. Corey Gaines of Maiden Chapel in Maiden, NC, prayed for Healthcare Workers saying, “We pray and commit them to you, oh God, asking that You be their strength like no other. We pray right now, in the name of Jesus, that You give them the tenacity to keep moving forward. We know, God, that nothing is impossible with You. With You, all things are possible. We come against the spirit of the virus in the name of Jesus.”
Praying for Fire and
Rescue was Rev. Greg Neely of Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church who said, “Many people pursue a career and realize later in life, they should have pursued a calling. Others pursue a calling and make it a career. Father, as they make their shifts, my prayer is that You help sustain Fire and Rescue workers spiritually. As they lie in their bunks, may it not be idle time. May they find themselves drawn with the need and desire to study Your word, so when they leave out, they leave out with purpose. God, give them the vision to see that those they help are people, just like the rest of us, and they may be helping them in the very hour of their greatest need. Father, would You keep them safe, not only for their own benefit, but for ours, in Jesus’ name we pray.”
Rev. Brian Taule of David Baptist Church prayed for retail workers.
“God, I pray for protection for those ones that stand behind the register as we pick up our groceries, being exposed to who knows what. Not just ones in the grocery store, but all of the retail establishment. God, protect them. We thank You for them and we thank You for living in a county where we can go. Thank You for the blessing of just being able to shop and not have all the stores closed.”
Dr. Rob Patrick of Boyce Memorial ARP Church prayed for the educators. “In this time of unprecedented challenge and difficulty for our educators, we pray for those throughout our nation, our state, and particularly here in Cleveland County that they might know you and be strengthened by Your spirit.”
Praying for Law Enforcement was Rev. Jeff Longwell, Pastor of Penley’s Chapel. “I ask You, oh God, to put Your blessing and Your protection upon our Law Enforcement Officers as we think about all the things they have been through this year. Many have laid down their lives, Lord. We know You said that there is no greater love that a man could give than to lay down his life for his friends. These men and women are called to the duties they do. You have put them in that place, and we trust You to bring them safely home to their families night after night. As they lay their live on the line, may they have eternity with you in their hearts.”
Rev. Reginald Hartgrove of New Life Christian Church shared a prayer for the Transporters, “Father, in Jesus name we come humbly before You to thank You for your grace, Your mercy, and Your loving kindness. We praise You before we ask You for anything. As we lift up every transporter, You appeared to and guided the children of Israel and we ask that You do so in a like manner to every transporter. Guide them, protect them, keep them from seen and unseen dangers. Let Your grace, let Your mercy abide heavily upon them in Jesus name.”
Volunteers were prayed for by Rev. Paul Brintley of Fellowship Baptist in Dallas, NC. “You know, a volunteer is a person who remembers to do things that makes other people happy. When we have times of service, they can be so intense and physically draining for volunteers. I pray Your blessing on each volunteer that You have brought to serve during this trying time. I ask that You set a guard over each volunteer and keep them strong in You. You promised that You will be our strength, so I ask you to give each volunteer the measure of strength that they will need to accomplish what You have called them to do even though they are not compensated financially. You said in your word that You would reward them if they stored it up where no moth or rust can destroy. So, Father, I ask You to reward them mightily.”
Dr. Moses Nueman, Director of World Care Ministries prayed for Ministers and Churches. “Father, God, you ordained the Church. You ordained that that is a place of refuge, a place where we can run into and find refuge. It is also a place the community calls the Watchtower. You have also ordained ministers who are the Watchmen on the tower. You have asked us to go into the world and preach the gospel. We thank You for the city of Kings Mountain and the whole community we have here. We want to thank You, Father God, for the ministers in the area who worship You in spirt and in truth. Thank You for the Kings Mountain Ministerial Association that brings us together. Let Your name be glorified and let Your love abide in us. Most of all, have mercy on our Country and grant us peace.”
Rev. Bruce Gwyn of Central United Methodist Church prayed for Government workers saying, “God of all ages, in Your sight and in Your time nations have risen and they have fallen. Lord, they pass through times of plenty and they pass through times of peril. In this turbulent time, my all of our leaders be led by Your wisdom. May our leaders seek Your will and not theirs. Lord, if they do not see clearly and have turned from Your way, I pray that they will repent. You are our hope, God. You are our strength, our help in our time of need. Serving through the light that You shine upon their minds and their hearts.”
A prayer for our community was offered by Rev. William Thompson of William Thompson Ministries and Coffee Time with a Preacher. “Community is defined by all the different entities we have prayed for already. They have been called, one by one. As we call God to remember us, we want to remember Him as our creator, as our redeemer, and as a healer of our land. Dear Father, we lift up the Kings Mountain Community. We ask that we understand who we lift the community up to, the Creator, the very One who brings about all the things we so desperately seek. I want to lift up the community and ask for peace, ask for joy, ask for love, kindness, forgiveness, loving on one another, that this community will be the very place we would want to bring our children, and our children’s children. And whenever we look at this place, that we will remember one thing. That the center of Kings Mountain is The Christ.”
Dr. John Sloan, Jr., known by many as ‘Brother Chip’, shared a word of thanks, “Our gracious heavenly Father, You have instructed us that we should rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances. In obedience to You, we have gathered together, we have sung, we have rejoiced in our fellowship. We have prayed, Lord, specific prayers for specific needs. Lord, now we just want to give thanks to You. We thank You for Jesus, for he is our helper. I thank You for this land we call America. You have for so many years protected us and given us a place of protection. We thank You for how you have blessed us with this great land. Lord, we thank You for the government, for the wisdom of the founders, who designed a government that is truly for the people and by the people. The technology we enjoy today is a gift from You. Lord, I give you thanks for this town. May daughter, who is a wife and a mother of two little children just riding into Kings Mountain not long ago burst out with the words, ‘I love this little town.’ And Lord, I do love this little town. We are grateful for it. We are grateful, Father, for every citizen who is here.  And we thank You Lord for every church that stands to minister for You to build harmony and unity. Lord, we give You thanks for the big things and the little things. In the precious name of Jesus.”
Pastor John Wilcox of First Presbyterian Church offered the closing prayer, saying, “I think everything has been said that could be said. It is wonderful to be here and see a community that has come together for the needs of the people of the community. It is such a blessing to be a part of this. We pray that Christ may grant us, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with the power in our inner being through his spirit. So that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. To Him, be glory and the Church, and Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever.”
Pastor Ron Caulder of Eastside Baptist Church thanked all the ministers for participating and concluded by saying, “The Lord has heard our prayers here and we give him praise. May you now go in peace. God Bless you.”
After the event, the Herald asked Officer T. Bell what this event meant to him as a member of Kings Mountain Police Department. “As far as the community standing behind our police officers, it means the world to me. When the community and police work together, it fits like a hand in a glove,” he said.

(January 13, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

During Cleveland County Board of Education’s special called meeting on January 7, members voted 5 - 4 to return pre-kindergarten through 4th grade students to full-time instruction beginning on Monday, February 8. Plan A’s previous start date had been set for January 19.
Chairman Robert Queen summarized research he had done with Shelby Pediatrics and Atrium Health, among others. He indicated that Atrium Health expects a spike in COVID-19 cases in early February. Currently there are no issues of being seen by Emergency Departments, but there could be an issue with finding a bed if a patient needs to be admitted. Some patients have been transferred to other facilities. But patients have also been transferred here if beds are available.
Queen reported that he checked with Shelby Pediatrics and they suggested that January 19 was not the  right time to go forward with in-person learning. On January 6 at 3 pm, a letter was received confirming Shelby Pediatrics’ concern.
Representatives from Cleveland County Health Department and Cleveland County Schools also spoke regarding current data.
Motion was made by Rodney E Fitch to return pre-kindergarten through 4th grade students to full-time instruction on February 8, second by Danny Blanton. Voting in favor were Robert Queen, Danny Blanton, Ron Humphries, Joel Shores, Rodney Fitch.
Voting against were Phillip Glover, Dena Green, Coleman Hunt, Greg Taylor.
While public participation was not allowed at during this meeting, the next Cleveland County School Board meeting is January 11. During that meeting, public participation will be allowed. Vice Chairman Joel Shores spoke in favor of allowing public participation at this special meeting, but it was voted down 7 -2.

(January 6, 2021 Issue)

Online event will 
take place,
January 15th-19th, 2021

Kings Mountain, NC:  Honoring the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the City of Kings Mountain is set to host a virtual online event, “Meet Dr. King”, January 15th-19th, 2021.
Performed by Bright Star Touring Theatre of Asheville, NC, “Meet Dr. King”, introduces audiences to Dr. King and follows key moments in his life beginning as a young boy experiencing racism for the first time, to meeting his wife, Coretta, to becoming a pastor and finally a national inspiration.
Audiences will get the opportunity to watch the production live on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mauneylibrary and www.facebook.com/CityofKMSpecialEvents.
In addition to this special production, Mauney Memorial Library will honor Dr. King by providing a “Doves of Peace” paper craft in select businesses throughout the City. Businesses participating are, Big Red’s Café, Mauney Memorial Library, Mountain Holiday, and Swooger's.
Schools throughout Cleveland County will receive the link to allow students to watch the production as well.
For more information, please contact the City of Kings Mountain Special Events Department at 704-730-2101 or access their website at www.kingsmountainevents.com. 

(January 6, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, Kings Mountain honored the city’s police officers with a tribute during a specially programmed Fantasy Light Show. The trees along Railroad Avenue were trimmed in blue.
“We wanted to do something to honor our police and let them know we are thinking of them,” said Mayor Neisler. “This has been a tough time for our police officers in the last few weeks and they need to know we appreciate what they do to protect us in our community.”
If you missed the light show, you are in luck. Angela Padgett of Kings Mountain Special Events took pictures and shared them with the Herald.
A special Prayer Gathering will also be held this Saturday at noon in Patriots Park by the Kings Mountain Ministerial Association. It is a great opportunity to show Kings Mountain Police, and all law enforcement in the county and the region, how much the community appreciates all they do to keep everyone safe.

Main Street Director Christy Adkins announced the winner of the $250 Main Street Bucks promotion! Presenting the $250 Main Street bucks to Karla Stamey is Lew Dellinger, owner of Dellinger’s Jewel Shop. Stamey met the qualifications by spending a minimum of $25 at Dellinger's Jewel Shop and turned in her receipt. She can spend that $250 at any of the downtown businesses.                                 
 

(January 6, 2021 Issue)

The Kings Mountain Ministerial Association will hold a special prayer gathering this Saturday, January 9, at noon at the Gazebo in Patriot’s Park.
The community prayer gathering is planned to pray for police officers and all essential workers in Kings Mountain who work to keep the community safe and who are always there to help in a time of need.
Essential workers include police, fire fighters, city employees, EMT’s, doctors, nurses, nursing home workers and employees, to name a few.
This has been a one of the most challenging years in the lives of most people. The Ministerial Association shared, “We are thankful to God for seeing us through some of the most some difficult times. You are invited to join us Saturday at noon in Patriots Park as we come together to pray for His help as the new year begins, praying especially for those who are in harm’s way to protect us in times of crisis. These people are on the front lines for us. They need our prayers and support as a community of faith.”
Patriots Park is located at 220 S. Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain.

(January 6, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

The year 2020 is one few of us will ever forget, but one probably we wish we could. Just days into the year, the Coronavirus pandemic began, resulting in say-at-home orders, mandatory wearing of face masks, and governmental assistance to citizens as well as businesses. As of Dec. 31, about 342,000 Americans had died from the virus. On that day alone, 3,479 North Carolinians were hospitalized. In Cleveland County, 6,956 cases of the virus and 144 deaths were reported last year.
On a positive note, three pharmaceutical companies have developed Coronavirus vaccines and two have begun inoculating those at highest risk: medical professionals and those living in congregate housing. This week anyone 75 and over can get the vaccine. It will take a while to get everyone inoculated but it is a good step forward.
Despite the virus, all news was not bleak. The area has seen business growth and witnessed firsthand the resiliency of people. Front-line workers kept commerce flowing as everyone worked to help each other through one of the toughest times in recent memory.
January  – As 2020 began, a 16-year mystery was solved at Moss Lake. A fisherman using a fish finder discovered a submerged vehicle near the Camp Creek Church Road boat ramp, 27-feet below the surface. It was reported missing in Oct. 2004. On January 15, Sgt. Bob Myers retired after 30-years with Kings Mountain Police Department. Friends of Crowders Mountain asked for volunteers for trail work and litter pick-up. Greg Payseur offered free genealogy assistance at the Mauney Memorial Library. Atrium Health Kings Mountain tightened visitation requirements due to the prevalence of flu in the region. Kings Mountain Rotary Club awarded a check to Tropzie McCluney of the Community Math Academy. Jasmine Suarez and Kallee Heffner came in first and second respectively in the East School Fourth Grade Spelling Bee. After 79-years of service, the Kings Mountain Kiwanis Club disbanded. Edgar Lee (Dean) Adams retired and closed his barber shop after working 60-years in his profession. Accelerate Cleveland began recruiting for their spring class.
February – Layoffs were announced for Eaton Corporation due to consolidation of its heavy-duty transmission assembly division. Starbucks announced opening a new store at 717 York Road in July. Mauney Memorial Library announced a Makerspace sneak-peek. On Feb. 4, Cleveland County Health Department announced no cases of Novel Coronavirus in Cleveland County. Early February brought an EF-2 tornado to the Dixon Community, toppling four high tension electrical transmission towers and felling trees in its wake. Sheriff Norman switched political parties, registering as a Republican. Catawba Nation opened a display at Kings Mountain Historical Museum. President of Kings Mountain Touchdown Club David Brinkley officially presented the new tennis courts and football field to Superintendent of Cleveland County Schools Stephen Fisher. City of Kings Mountain acknowledged a water spill of 3.1 million gallons into Potts Creek. Temple Baptist Church celebrated its 75th anniversary. Warren Bingham spoke to the DAR on the life of George Washington; his wife, Laura Carpenter Bingham, is a Kings  Mountain Native. North Elementary School’s fourth grade spelling bee winners were Johaunna Shaw and Kal Frishmuth. Shaw represented North in the district level competition.
March – City of KM trashes its recycling program due to costs. Thoroughbred Partners announce plans for the old Senior Park. Don Crawford celebrated his 90th birthday. Over 130 attend American Legion Auxiliary Unit 155’s Spaghetti Dinner. Cub Scout Pack 93 celebrated its 25th anniversary. KMHS Senior Myla Athitang published her first book: Annalise: Twenty Years Everlasting. Kings Mountain ranked 25th  among the safest cities in NC. Citizens were advised by the CDC on ways to protect themselves from COVID-19. United States Department of the Interior rules in favor of the Catawba Nation’s casino plan. City given a $25,000 civil penalty and notification of violation due to the city’s failure to properly implement the pretreatment program. Because Governor Cooper declared a state of emergency due to the Coronavirus, Atrium Health Kings Mountain restricted visitors to those age 13 and over. Cleveland County Potato Project collected fruits and vegetables with a longer shelf-life for citizens impacted by COVID-19. Lenten services, Frozen, Jr., Gateway Trail races, Honors Chorus, Medicine Drop, and Friends of Crowders Mountain were cancelled or postponed. Kings Mountain Historical Museum temporarily closed. The nation celebrated 19th amendment giving women the right to vote. Local schools celebrate Read Across America and invite local celebrities to read to the children. Citizens start feeling the impact of Coronavirus. Beginning on March 19, city buildings were conducting business but limiting access. NC schools were closed until May 15. Patrick Senior Center was closed. City of Kings Mountain turned on its Christmas Lights on Railroad Avenue to brighten the citizen’s spirits. Cleveland County Schools announced the continuation of the school lunch program. Phrases like The New Normal, Together Apart, and In This Unprecedented Time became part of our vocabulary. In stores, signs on floors and on isles reminded shoppers to stay six-feet apart and travel isles in one direction only. Reminders of the 3-Ws were everywhere: wear your mask, wait (maintain social distancing six-feet apart), and wash your hands. Glenn Mollette noted that 9,000 lives had been lost to the virus, with 22,000 sick. Atrium Health added new restrictions for visitors. Restaurants were closed to COVID-19; takeout and delivery became extremely popular with local restaurants that remained open. American Legion celebrated its 101st birthday nationwide.
April – Coronavirus help is on the way; COVID-19 unemployment checks go out. Patrick Senior Center distributed non-perishable food and scheduled in-county medical appointments through TACC. Cleveland County Potato Project collected food for those in need. KM Spring Litter Sweep kicks-off. EIDL and PPP loans were announced to help small businesses. The fifth Coronavirus case was reported by Cleveland County Health Department.  City of KM broadcast its city council meeting on Facebook Live for the first time. Fifteen Kings Mountain and Gastonia residents were quarantined at Ft. Dobbins Air Force Base in Georgia after disembarking the Grand Princess cruise ship in San Francisco. YMCA offered daycare for essential workers. Kings Mountain’s Easter Service was cancelled. The Easter Bunny visited Kings Mountain on the back of a fire truck. Lib Stewart was honored by District 13 American Legion Auxiliary. Governor Cooper tightened COVID-19 social distancing measures. Kings Mountain had four confirmed COVID-19 cases and the county had 39 cases. Citizens begin gardening as a pastime and to grow difficult to find items. Local hardware stores see a booming business. Porch sitting becomes more popular. Citizens started a Where’s Waldo type event for children. People hid various stuffed zoo animals for the children to find. American Legion Auxiliary Girl’s State went virtual for the first time. Governor announced a plan to reopen NC. Educator Beverly Owens used a desktop 3D printer to make facemasks for healthcare providers. Schools continued remote learning for the rest of the school year.
May - High school seniors received caps and gowns in drive-thru. Cleveland Pines reported 5 Coronavirus cases. Kings Mountain’s Memorial Day event was held virtually. Mauney Library offered curbside pickup. KM ranked #1 as healthiest home market in US. First Presbyterian held services in the garden beside the Joy Theater. Governor opened NC for business with limitations. KMHS senior players were honored in a drive-thru event. Michael Parker made good renovation progress on the old Fulton’s building. City of KM had no tax increases in their new budget. Veronet Vineyards and Winery reopened using social distancing. Windows at Mauney Memorial Library were refurbished. Absentee Balloting was announced as an option for November primary. Red, White, and Boom will feature fireworks only. Kings Mountain’s newest restaurant, 133 West, continues toward its grand opening. Dead & Gone shot at the George Washington Cromwell House. Twelve new COVID-19 cases reported in Kings Mountain last week. DAR holds national conference online. Kings Mountain rebrands itself. KMHS Class of 2020 holds drive-thru graduation ceremony. YMCA moved many activities outdoors. Cleveland County Potato Project received 40,000 pounds of potatoes. Clean Sweep hauled away 88,000 pounds of yard waste. Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office released a new smartphone App.
June – Kiameshia Young bought the old McGill’s Exxon. COVID-19 numbers doubled every two-weeks for three weeks. On July 10, Kings Mountain had 102 cases, Grover 20, Shelby 178, and Boiling Springs 128. Ed Blackburn’s bees help apple trees flourish. Cleveland County had sixth COVID-19 death. KM cancelled its fireworks show and held a virtual event and also honored the Class of 2020. Face masks were now required in public per Gov. Cooper’s Executive Order.
 July – David Stone and his family brought the old Summer’s home back to life. Dellinger’s Jewel Shop a KM tradition for more than 60 years. Kings Mountain Coronavirus cases continue to climb. Six local sites failed swim guide results for the Broad River. Dr. Gangoo retired after 41 years in KM. Latinos for Freedom Back the Blue and provide lunches for local police. A 5.1 earthquake near Sparta, NC was felt in Kings Mountain. KM Historical Museum held its 17th annual Reverse Raffle virtually. Uniquetex and Ecoguard donated 5,000 masks for KM citizens that were distributed at Patrick Senior Center. COVID-19 outbreak at White Oak Manor. KM’s Beach Blast went virtual. Jimmy Wayne was named to Cleveland County Hall of Fame. Betsy Wells served as a Democratic National Delegate. A Cleveland County woman wins $186,776 in Cash 5 jackpot. Levi Keever was introduced as a Future Firefighter. City distributed 15,000 masks. 133 West completed soft opening and is a big hit with patrons. Delta Kappa Gamma installed new officers.
August – Developers plan for $230 million in projects for KM. 133 West opened on Wednesday, September 2. Name announced for Catawba Nation’s Casino: Catawbas Two Kings Casino Resort. Wayne King served as a Republican National Delegate. Kings Mountain Fire Department joins Cleveland County’s Emergency Warning System. Cleveland County reports 35 COVID-19 deaths. Jim Potter retires from CUMC’s Community Kitchen. One hundred and five residents at White Oak Manor had COVID-19. Commander Keith Morrow retired from the Navy. KM native Sarah Lee Owensby was nominated for Major Market Broadcast Personality. Senior Center requests donations of food for older adults. Land near casino sold for $1.77 million. Julie Rikard named CCS Principal of the Year. Battle of Kings Mountain commemoration went virtual. Future firefighter Grady Hooper was introduced. Alliance Bank and Trust moved to Shelby Road. DAR celebrated Constitution Week. Christy Adkins took over as Main Street Director. Land near casino sold for $2.725 million. Advent Academy held its ribbon cutting.
September – Michael and Nakisha Wenzel bought Big Red’s Café. City approved $1.2 million budget expenditures and annexed land into the city. Library hosted virtual book fair. KMHS basketball over 100 years old, football should turn 100 in 2022. Second positive case of rabies reported in the county. Potato Project harvested 3,000 pounds of potatoes. Angela Padgett was born into life of NASCAR. 133 West Ribbon Cutting Oct. 22. KMLT held auditions for Till Beth Do Us Part. Revolutionary War Iron Sword part of Museum’s collection. Melvin Ware’s Victory Garden did well. KM Hospital to celebrate 70th anniversary in March 2021.
October – President Trump held a campaign rally in Gastonia at the airport. Benestar Brands to invest $24 Million in KM. Wilcox new minister at First Presbyterian Church. Strong showing by voters in early voting. Neisler fabrics were featured in 1956 Indianapolis race car. Delta Tau recognized future teachers. Shelters welcome those in need. KM area voters go to polls Tuesday. Helen Bullock turned 103. Border’s daycare recognized for 26-years of service. 133 West held its ribbon cutting. Grants available for businesses impacted by COVID-19. DAR celebrated Day of Service..
November – Greg Putnam recognized by city for doing the right thing. City honored Veteran’s on Nov. 10. City approved incentive grants and zoning petitions. Sixty-three percent of Kings Mountain voters have cast their ballots. Water project adds $175,000 to budget. King Mountain had 936 cases of Coronavirus with 29 deaths, of which 23 were living in nursing homes. Republicans won big in Cleveland County. City council approved sale of alcohol before noon on Sunday. Patriots park got a landscape facelift. Fourth and fifth cases of rabies reported. Jones Tennis Building completes best athletic facility in the state. Jalen Roberts received Eagle Scout rank. Keith Corporation marketing Kings Mountain Corporate Center. KM Beach Blast named CBMA’s best event of the year. NCDOT paving project continued through town. Work continued near Exit 5. December 19 was Wreaths Across America Day. Shelby and Gastonia DMV now offers instant title services. Feed the Children on Dec. 4. Christmas in Kings Mountain began Dec. 5 for three consecutive weekends. Murphy Toy Run a success. Nutcracker performed with limited seating. Governor Cooper tightened mask restrictions and enforcement.
December – Home for Christmas back in Kings Mountain. Here comes Santa Claus. City presented streetscape plan. City received $200,000 from KM ABC Board. Benestar Brands purchased property in KM. On Dec. 1, an older driver accidentally drove her vehicle into Kings Mountain Post Office. Santa visited Kings Mountain. Library renovations ongoing. Work at 100 E. Kings Street continues. Floyd inspires others on a journey to a healthier life. Atrium Health first to administer COVID-19 vaccine. Sisters shared holiday warmth with Y-kids. NC Voter Law upheld in US Court of Appeals. Huggins welcomed you to Revolution Brewhouse. Shop local for Christmas. Officer Tyler Herndon killed in the line of duty. Another KMPD Officer shot Saturday night. Santa visited with children just in time for Christmas. Meadowbrook Road water project approved. During Wreaths Across America, 600 veterans honored at Mountain Rest Cemetery. Tyler Herndon laid to rest as community mourns. City grapples with mural ordinance. KM featured in Life in the Carolina’s Christmas special. Bolin’s Daycare celebrated 50th birthday. Student boarders start KM Christmas tradition in 1883. Atrium KM to get Moderna vaccine. City council continues decision on rezoning for Catawba Village.

(December 30, 2020 Issue)

A memorial fund has been set up in honor  of Mt. Holly police officer Officer Herndon who lost his life in the line of duty on December 11, 2020. “The Tyler Herndon Memorial Fund” has been created at  SouthState Bank. Cash or check donations can be dropped off at any Gaston county location (Mount Holly, Belmont, Gastonia, Dallas, Stanley). All monies collected will be given to the Herndon family in honor of their son.

(December 30, 2020 Issue)

If you think you have seen the Fantasy Christmas Light Show, you need to rethink that. “After Christmas, the light show was reprogrammed to Back the Blue in Kings Mountain,” according to Mayor Neisler. “We reprogrammed the whole show and added the City of Kings Mountain Logo and songs like, “God Bless the USA,” Neisler said. “There’s a little something in there for everyone, including Thunderstruck by AC/DC.” Kings Mountain’s Fantasy Light show will continue until New Year’s Eve, when the display will count down to midnight, welcoming in 2021.
 

(January 30, 2020 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Bolin’s Daycare celebrated its 50th birthday the last Saturday before Christmas. Their anniversary should have been held in September, but with COVID-19, things got pushed back. Jeff and Kelly Bolin celebrated the daycare’s birthday party outdoors in the parking lot and on the grounds of their daycare.
Tables were filled with gift bags packed with goodies for the first 50 guests. There were games, crafts, and activities for the entire family. Some folks just came by to reminisce and take a walk down memory lane.
Photo books were placed on tables, with images of young children, now grown, spanning a half century. Games of life-size Jenga, corn hole, and a cake walk kept kids and their parents busy. Crafts filled tables as young and old gathered to create items to take home. Cupcakes and refreshments filled tables.
Santa even dropped by for a quick visit before Christmas. Kids climbed into Santa’s lap to share their Christmas wishes with Santa, wide-eyed in awe and wonder.
Students, now parents, bring their children and grandchildren to Bolin’s Daycare. One grandmother shared that her grandson had terrible separation anxiety and could not stand to be away from his immediate
family. “If someone he did not know looked at him, he would just scream. We brought him to Bolin’s and he absolutely loves it here. We often leave and he never even realizes we are gone. It is a huge success for him,” she said.
"Daycare is a lot more than just babysitting," said Kelly. "Bolin's Daycare is very structured with a focus on preparing children for Kindergarten. Everything we do, from birth to age five prepares them for that."
   In 1970, Barbara Ellen Bolin and her husband, Herman, lived two blocks away at 705 Ramseur Street. They had just completed construction of a new home on Cansler Street and decided to open a daycare in their basement. They had three children: Cindy, David, and Jeff. Jeff was just a year old.
Eventually, the Bolin's business outgrew their space, so they moved the daycare back to their house on Ramseur Street. In 1978, the Bolin’s bought the current property across from North School and built a facility that can accommodate 98 students. The 74 Bypass took their property, and they needed a new location. Now Jeff and Kelly own the daycare.
Bolin’s Daycare is a special place, as evidenced by all who gathered to share this milestone with the Bolin family this last Saturday before Christmas. The Bolin’s love traditions and have kept them going for 50 years. “Every Friday, children visit the office and get a piece of candy and Friday is also Hot Dog and Chili Day,” Jeff said. When asked the secret to their chili, he replied, "It is so simple…" Kelly quickly interrupted, saying, "The chili recipe is a highly classified secret," and they both laugh.

(December 30, 2020 Issue)

During an unusual meeting on Friday, December 18 at 5 pm, city council continued the public hearing held during the Regularly scheduled meeting from December 15, to consider a request of Let’s Roll Holdings, LLC. At question was to rezone property consisting of approximately 82.73 acres on Dixon School Road, Parcel #11598, Map 4, Block 1, Lot 10, from R-20 to Conditional District R6-PUD (Planned Unit Development). The planned name for the development is Catawba Village.
In the prior meeting held the Tuesday before, it was determined that the application was not complete, specifically Article 14.1a, items 4, 5, and 6, so that public hearing was continued to Friday.
Of concern to Director of Community & Economic Development Stuart Gilbert, was that the amended application contained a run-on sentence in Exhibit B, paragraph 2 with regard to the building material to be used in Phase 1 that contains no more than 200 multi-family apartment units.
Mayor Neisler invited the public to speak in favor of the project and two people spoke. Leonard Fletcher, an engineer in Shelby spoke first. He explained he wouldn’t normally speak regarding this but that he had received a phone call implying that Mr. Wallace Cheves was a liar and a cheat.
“I can only say that I’ve known him for about the last 10-years. He has paid me every month and he has done everything he said he would do. There were a lot of things he (Cheves) didn’t say (in the city council meeting) because he didn’t know. He is not in that part of the development.”
 “I’ve probably designed a hundred developments in the last 40-years and I’ve tried one of my own. I just know that with the kind of requirements that the staff has put on the development, you know, brick, stone, the houses are going to cost $300,000 to $400,000 at a minimum. And apartments are going to rent for probably $1,500. I just wanted to get it straight,” Fletcher said.
“He is not going to have a choice but to build you a legacy. It will be the nicest place in Shelby or Kings Mountain.”
Also speaking in favor was Tommy Register, who is also an engineer working for Wallace Cheves. “This is a multi-family project. Low-rent is not what it is intended to be. These are high quality luxury apartments. There are no facilities like this for someone to move and    live  until   they can build a house somewhere locally,” he said.
“This project is not just for casino workers. It could be for young professionals working in Charlotte, Gastonia, or Greenville. With the housing you have now, there is a whole market sector that is missing. This housing can also be used for young professionals coming to the area.”
Mayor Neisler then invited citizens who wished to speak against. Dale Greene was the first of seven to speak against the rezoning. In response to a Facebook conversation from the night before, Greene commented that the Mayor had implied the rent for the multi-family housing units would be between $700 - $800. He urged city council to table the item.
“Tonight’s vote is going to demonstrate who is all-in with the casino,” Greene said. “You need to sit back and evaluate this, because (we are meeting on a) Friday at 5 pm. My fear is that we will be looking at subsidized housing again. I’m going to remind you we have 44.2% rental properties in Kings Mountain. That’s astounding. In fact, that’s appalling!”
“I am really concerned about the transparency of this council. You are my representatives and I feel like I have no representation. I hope you will, at least, table this matter. Do the right thing and open this thing up and let’s talk about it further. Let’s have the developer come in with a good consistent plan about what he’s going to do, how many units, how many acres it is going to cover, and what the rentals are going to be,” he said.
“If you don’t think this is being rushed, then you are sadly mistaken. I told you a long time ago that corruption’s going to roll over this town like a steamroller. Well, it’s started. Vote to table this or vote it down,” he concluded.
Second to speak was Mike Hinson, “I’m not a full-fledged citizen of Kings Mountain, but this is affecting my area. There’s a lot of people in my community that’s against this and they feel like they have no voice. I’m here to vote against it. There’s not a lot of information about what these apartments are going to look like or what they are being built out of. I think the casino is bad enough, let alone what kind of issues it is going to bring with it,” Hinson said.
“I hope each of you will search your heart tonight and think if it was going in your neighborhood or back yard, how would you feel about it, and what you would do.”
Bobby Maner took the podium next. “I had a conversation with the Mayor this morning after something he posted on Facebook yesterday. He alluded to the term Market Based Housing. There is no such thing in the real estate market.”
“When using rents of $700 - $800, that is on the bottom end of your rental market for, basically, mill housing. If you want a nice apartment somewhere in Gastonia or Charlotte, you are going to pay considerably more than that,” he said.
Maner brought up several good points, asking if the city wanted to provide dormitory housing for the casino, if public money would be involved, will the project be subsidized in any way, and what could be done if the developer sold it after completion, could it be turned into Section 8 housing. “There is nothing you can do about that. Nothing,” he said.
Maner also pointed out that a similar situation had occurred across from the hospital. “Fields Young, Inc. built one of the finest units in this town. When his estate sold, the property became what it is now. Someone died in a shooting there last year.”
He went on to say, “Putting low cost, low rent housing on that property will doom any other development that could potentially go on that side of the interstate. Don’t take my word for it. You ask developers all over the state and the county. You put this in an area, it hurts things that go in around it. It will cost the city far more than whatever money it gets out of it in utilities and taxes. So, stop it or table it, please.”
Billy Spencer approached his argument against in a different way. At 49, he grew-up and continues to live in the Dixon Community. “I have seen change,” he said, “but this is just drastic. I didn’t know about it until today. Consider those who make a home there and have lived there for their whole life. This is a major thing, and I would love to have you knock it down.”
Three citizens, Dina Spencer, Rick Spencer, and Janet Kulick shared their concerns about Wallace Cheves and his investor group, along with vague plans for the surrounding area nearby.
After the citizen comment portion  of the meeting ended, city council discussed the importance of Conditional District zoning. Attorney Corry explained, “A Conditional District is legislative, and those conditions become part of the vote and are absolute. The developer must follow those conditions and they are site specific. In other words, those conditions are tied to the land, even if the land changes ownership.”
He added, “Fortunately, these conditions are so tight, it may contain the most conditions I’ve ever seen with  a conditional district. It’s about as good as you can get, I think.”
Councilmen West, Hawkins, and Allen expressed their desire not to rush to a decision. Councilman West said, “Mr. Mayor, I think we are acting a little hastily. We are in a position where we can pick and choose. I think we have to be really careful about what we do down there (near the casino). I agree with Mr. Hinson and Billy. We have to be concerned about those folks, as well.  I don’t think we need to be in a hurry about anything. We need to make sure this is not only good for us, but also for the folks who live down there.”
City Council voted unanimously to close the public hearing, but then realized that in order to continue the discussion they should reconsider the previous motion, which they did and was approved.                                                 
Councilman Miller then made the motion to reverse their previous action of closing the public hearing, and then to continue the public hearing to January 26, 2021 at 6 pm. The vote was unanimous, and the meeting was adjourned.