(March 17, 2021 Issue)

Dr. George Plonk was born on March 17, 1919 and celebrates his 102nd birthday this week. A lot has changed in Kings Mountain, and the world, in the last 102 years. The following information was taken from an exhibit on early doctors in Kings Mountain, and from an interview recorded by Scott Neisler in 1995 courtesy of Kings Mountain Historical Museum.
Dr. George Plonk grew up with nine siblings on a farm between Kings Mountain and Cherryville. Of the ten Plonk children, all but the youngest were born with the assistance of a midwife at home; the last-born son was birthed with the assistance of a doctor, Dr. Stokes. This was representative of a regional trend taking place in the first half of the 20th century, towards more accessible professional healthcare in rural North Carolina.
Dr. Anthony and Dr. Hord were the Plonks’ family doctors, and Dr. Plonk recalls that in those days some fresh ears of corn or whatever else was in season on the local farms were often used as payment to those doctors who made house calls to the people of Kings Mountain.
He spent his first six grades in a one-room schoolhouse on land donated by his grandfather, before attending Kings Mountain High School. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1940.
After earning his degree from Jefferson Medical School in Philadelphia, he served two years in the U.S. Army as a physician in Europe. Following his service, Dr. Plonk made his way back to the Kings Mountain area. After working as a general practitioner for several years in town, Dr. Plonk returned to medical school to study surgery, this time studying at the University of Pennsylvania. From there he went on to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he practiced from 1952 until 1957.
Of his degrees, the 1937 certificate from the American Board of Surgery declaring that he is a Board-certified surgeon is the one Dr. Plonk is most proud to have earned. He also recalls in the interview with Scott Neisler that the mentors he had through his early years of studying and practicing medicine that inspired his own caring, compassionate his bedside manner.
During WWII, Dr. Plonk served two years in the U.S. Army, including serving as a physician in Europe.  In the interview, Dr. Plonk explains how he learned about the use of bone screws for the first time from prisoners of war who had been treated with them before they were released back to the Fracture Ward where he was stationed. This is a good example of how advances in military medicine translated into significant progress in civilian medicine.
Dr. Plonk’s first wife, Margaret Cooper, was also from Kings Mountain, and with a new hospital having opened there, they decided to go home. In 1957, he became Kings Mountain Hospital’s first surgeon.
In the interview, Dr. Plonk explains how the first few years of surgery at Kings Mountain Hospital were challenging. By that point, he and his wife had five children, and even though they were living in a one-bedroom apartment in his wife’s parent’s house, it was still difficult to make ends meet.
Dr. Plonk still had the opportunity to return to his practice in Raleigh, and he had made up his mind that was what he had to do to support his family. Fortunately, a group of concerned citizens circulated a petition urging Dr. Plonk to stay in Kings Mountain. Honored by the effort, and by the number of signatures, he decided to stay, continuing to practice medicine in Kings Mountain until his retirement in the 1980s.
During his long career, he tended and mended the citizens of this region as one of its most respected doctors for over forty years. Dr. Plonk frequently runs into his former surgical patients around town and receives expressions of their gratitude – it is not uncommon for him to hear, “I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for you.”
  In addition to his career as one of Kings Mountain’s most esteemed surgeons, Dr. Plonk has always been an active community member, serving in the Lions Club and the Kings Mountain Rotary Club.
   During his lifetime, he saw medical care in Kings Mountain transition from backcountry home medicine to professional doctors making house calls; then he watched Kings Mountain Hospital grow from a 24-bed facility in 1951 to a full service 102 bed hospital with state-of-the-art technology. He saw the development of life-saving antibiotics and vaccines, as well as advances in anesthetics, cancer-fighting medicines, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. 

(March 17, 2021 Issue)

The City of Kings Mountain will be implementing NorthStar Utility Solutions billing software to better serve their customers on March 29. There will be changes in the billing statement and online features offered. Questions that you may have are:
• Will the due dates change? No, all due dates will remain the same. All payments are due by the 20th of each month to avoid a late fee and accounts need to be paid in full by the last day of each month to avoid additional fees and possible disconnection.
• Will I need to redo my paperwork (CSA, SSI information, Payment Arrangements, Bank Draft, etc.)? No, you will only need to complete paperwork if there have been any changes.
• Will I need to give my bank new information for sending my payment? No
• Why did my account number change? When changing software companies, the account format changed so we had no choice but to change the accounts number. You will see your new account number in the top left hand corner of the billing statement (see image of new statement below).
• Will my bill go up with you buying new software? No
• Can I still pay my bill at City Hall? Yes, the lobby and drive-thru hours will remain the same.
• How do I get to this new portal? There will be no changes as to how you get to the new portal, just the look and features once you click on the “online bill pay” link:  (see image of the customer portal below).
• What payment methods are available now? Online payment (e-check, visa, master card, american express, discover, apple pay, and google pay), check, cash, money order, bank draft, and we have added IVR feature (855) 844-0495. Note: if you have the link saved in your favorites please update.
• I have two electric meters on my property. Will I have two graphs for electric on my bill? The graphs will be one per service so if you have multiple electric meters the consumption represented on the graph will be combine consumption for each service.

(March 10, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Mountain Street Pharmacy and Shelby Drugstore, working in conjunction with the Cleveland County Public Health Center, will host a COVID-19 Vaccine clinic on Friday, March 12 at Central United Methodist Church in Kings Mountain.
Do not call Mountain Street Pharmacy or Shelby Drugstore to schedule an appointment. Those interested in getting the vaccine should call the Patrick Senior Center to complete the screening and pre-registration process. Call 704-734-0447 between 1:30 pm – 4 pm. Calls will be taken daily, now through March 11 or until all appointments have been filled.
Qualified individuals will be contacted later in the week if an appointment is available to you.
   The Clinic is open to the following eligible individuals:
• Persons 65 years of age or older
• Healthcare workers
• School employees/Childcare workers
  Mountain Street Pharmacist Alan Propst wants to thank Mayor Scott Neisler, City Manager Marilyn Sellers, and Patrick Senior Center Director Tabitha Thomas for their part in helping organize this COVID vaccine opportunity for the City of Kings Mountain.

(March 10, 2021 Issue)

By Christy Conner

It’s time to visit Wonderland! The City of Kings Mountain Special Events Department is excited to partner with Sigmon Theatrical to present The Wonderland Experience, an immersive, multi-sensory, intimate theater production where audience members literally walk into and through the world of Alice in Wonderland featuring live characters, interactive activities, breathtaking costumes and scenery, amazing circus feats, puppetry, special effects, and 360º immersive environments.
Fall down the rabbit hole (a magical tunnel with swirling lights) and meet Alice, the White Rabbit, Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum, solve a riddle by the Cheshire Cat, celebrate at a mad tea party with the Mad Hatter, and have a royal visit with the Queen of Hearts.
Guests can travel through the experience in their own group of family or friends, with a limit of ten (10) people per group. Tickets, with a scheduled departure time, are required to attend this event in order to reduce crowd size and maximize the guest experience. General Admission tickets are free of charge, and may be secured for your group at www.KingsMountainEvents.com/Wonderland. You can also upgrade your group to a VIP Experience for a small fee, including a souvenir photo, and a special gift that unlocks extra magic inside the experience.
The Wonderland Experience is a safe, socially distanced adventure for the entire family. Audience members will be required to wear face coverings, temperatures will be taken upon arrival, gloves will be provided to audience members to wear throughout the experience, all touch points will be sanitized between groups and a thorough deep clean will take place each evening, in addition to other safety protocols.
Experience Wonderland, Thursday, April 1 and through Saturday, April 3. The event begins each evening at 5:30 pm.
To learn more, and to reserve your experience today, call the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit the web at https://www.KingsMountainEvents.com/Wonderland.

(March 10, 2021 Issue)

By Windy Bagwell

Congratulations to Mrs. Sandra Stirewalt on being selected as the Kings Mountain Middle School February Employee of the Month.  Mrs. Stirewalt is more than just a substitute teacher; she is a hard-working team player that goes the extra mile to help everyone she encounters.  She works tirelessly with individual students to promote their success. Mrs. Stirewalt is well respected throughout our school community.  Her contributions to KMMS are much appreciated and very impactful.  Congratulations Mrs. Stirewalt!  Thank you for all you do for KMMS!

(March 10, 2021 Issue)

Cleveland County Schools begin pre-school screenings March 22 – March 25, and March 29 – April 3. Schedule your child’s screening by calling 704-476-8064 between the hours of 8:30 am and 3 pm, Monday through Friday. Eligible students must live in Cleveland County and be 4-years old by August 31.
Office of School Readiness is located at 308 W. Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150. Building B is on the grounds of the old Shelby Middle School – in the small building near tennis courts with parking in the back. Screenings are by appointment only and Cleveland County Schools will not offer make-up screenings.

(March 10, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain City Council will hold a special meeting of the City of Kings Mountain City Council on Wednesday, March 10 at 6 pm to discuss scheduling a public hearing for Tuesday March 30 at 6 pm, allowing them to consider a zoning text amendment allowing no required yard setbacks when federal tribal property is adjacent to the City of Kings Mountain ETJ.
The meeting on March 10 is to add the public hearing to the March 30 agenda, so they can consider the text amendment during that meeting.

(March 3, 2021 Issue)

On Feb. 25, Governor Roy Cooper signed House Bill 4 – Extend ABC Permit Renewal Fees into law. The legislation will help bar owners by allowing them to defer ABC permit fees until they are able to reopen at full capacity. The bill clarifies an existing emergency relief law passed in 2020 to allow bar owners to defer their permit fees up to 90 days after they are able to operate at full capacity.
“I’m grateful to see this legislation signed into law,” said Chairman Moffitt. “House Bill 4 will give private bars and small business owners reprieve until they are back at full capacity. The House ABC Committee will continue to advocate for NC businesses and plans to file additional relief legislation to help even more restaurants, bars, and businesses across the state recover from the COVID pandemic.”
“This is welcome news for these struggling business owners,” said Majority Leader John Bell. “I appreciate the hard work of Representative Moffitt and other bill sponsors to get this much-needed legislation signed into law. These small businesses continue to face significant challenges due to the Governor’s restrictions, and it is critical we continue to support and stand with them during these difficult times.”
“This legislation will provide many struggling businesses a much-deserved continuation of the deferral on their ABC permit fees,” said Representative Jamie Boles.  “We know this will not repair all the damage that has been done, but any help we can provide to these bars and restaurants will go a long way in helping our communities recover.”
 “I am elated that House Bill 4 became law today,” said Rep. Paré. “I am even more happy for all of the small businesses that will benefit from this law. HB 4 will provide flexibility to private bars that were crushed by COVID and numerous executive orders. I look forward to continuing my work to support small businesses at the Legislature and provide relief to those affected by the pandemic.”
House Bill 4 was filed on January 27 by Rep. Tim Moffitt (R-Henderson), along with primary sponsors Rep. John Bell (R-Wayne), Rep. Jamie Boles (R-Moore), and Rep. Erin Paré (R-Wake). The legislation was drafted in response to news in January that countless bar owners had their liquor permits revoked unexpectedly by the ABC Commission due to delinquent fees. House Bill 4 passed unanimously through the House and Senate and was signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper on February 25. The legislation goes into effect immediately, with Section 1 retroactively becoming effective June 30, 2020.
On Feb. 24, Governor Cooper lifted his Modified Stay at Home Order that required people to stay at home and businesses to close to the public between 10 pm and 5 am. The number of people who may gather indoors will increase from 10 to 25, while 50 remains the limit for outdoors. The curfew on the sale of alcohol for onsite consumption will be moved from 9 pm to 11 pm.
Some businesses, including bars and amusement parks, will now be open for patrons indoors as they adhere to new occupancy restrictions. Many businesses, venues and arenas will have increased occupancy both indoors and outdoors. 

(March 3, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain’s Gateway Trail’s 5K is scheduled for March 13. Registration is $20 and ends March 10 at 11:59 pm. This year’s race mark the 11th year because all races were cancelled in 2020 due to Coronavirus.
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. Runners will have a staggered start, allowing space between them as a safety precaution.
Due to new technology purchased by Race Director Starr Dowell, chips will enable runners to start and end the race without timers.  “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 began Monday, March 1 and continues through March 12. 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.

Expanding its significant clean-energy portfolio, Duke Energy has begun construction on the 50-MW Broad River Solar power plant in Cleveland County.
The project will be owned and operated by Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial subsidiary of Duke Energy. The project was selected as part of the competitive bidding process established by 2017’s landmark solar legislation in North Carolina.
The power plant will contain more than 170,000 solar panels across approximately 500 acres near Boiling Springs. The facility will power the equivalent of 12,500 homes. It is expected to reach commercial operation by the end of 2021.
“Solar power continues to play a big role in our aggressive pursuit to reduce carbon emissions and achieve our net-zero carbon goal for 2050,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “We’ll continue to deliver renewable energy by building and purchasing more carbon-free power for our customers.”
 Under North Carolina’s Competitive Procurement for Renewable Energy, proposed projects must be built where there is a need for energy capacity on the Duke Energy system in North Carolina or South Carolina. The bids can come from any company, including Duke Energy, and can be in the form of power purchase agreements (PPA), utility self-developed facilities or utility asset acquisitions.
 “In addition to increasing the renewable energy resources in the state, the project will also deliver significant economic benefits to Cleveland County,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Renewables.
During peak construction, Broad River Solar will generate approximately 120 jobs. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Broad River Solar will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing local tax revenues to the county and local school districts, as well as meaningful payments to the participating landowners.
The facility’s design, procurement  of  inverters, balance of plant systems and construction of the project will be performed by Swinerton. The solar power generated by Broad River Solar will be sold through a 20-year power purchase agreement.
   Because of the project, the Duke Energy Foundation recently awarded a $5,000 grant to the Cleveland County Schools Educational Foundation and Crest High School to add a renewable energy and green construction skills module into the school’s workforce development curriculum.

(March 3, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain and Shelby could see their elections moved to 2022 due to census delays. The Census Bureau ended the self-response and field data collection operations for the 2020 census on Oct. 15. The statutory deadline for the delivery of apportionment data was missed because of the delays caused by the pandemic and the anomalies found in the census data.
On Jan. 27, the Census Bureau announced the apportionment data is expected to be delivered by April 30. However, on Feb.12, the Bureau announced the timeline for releasing the redistricting data to the states would occur by September 30.
North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 160A Cities and Towns, is very specific with regard to redistricting after the decennial census and the process to move the election is very complicated. The statute reads, “Municipal redistricting must be completed by third business day before the opening of the filing period, (Wednesday, July 21, 2021). If the city or town determines that it will not be possible to adopt the redistricting changes before the third business day before opening of the filing period, the municipality may adopt a resolution delaying the election.”
This is because the council of any city which elects the members of its governing board on a district basis, like Kings Mountain, or where candidates for such office must reside in a district in order to run, like Shelby, is required to evaluate the existing district boundaries to determine whether it would be lawful to hold the next election without revising districts to correct population imbalances.
If such revision is necessary, the council must consider whether it will be possible to adopt the changes  (and obtain approval from the United States Department of Justice, if necessary) before the third day before opening of the filing period for the municipal election.
   The council must also take into consideration the time that will be required to afford ample opportunities for public input. If the council determines that it most likely will not be possible to adopt the changes (and obtain federal approval, if necessary) before the third business day before opening of the filing period and determines further that the population imbalances are so significant that it would not be lawful to hold the next election using the current electoral districts, it may adopt a resolution delaying the election.
Before adopting such a resolution, the council must also hold a public hearing on it. The notice of public hearing shall summarize the proposed resolution and shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation, not less than seven days before the date fixed for the hearing.
“The NC Legislature is also considering moving all municipal elections to 2022,” said Director of Elections of Cleveland County Clifton Philbeck. “Either way, if the election is moved, the new filing period would be noon Monday, December 6, 2021 through noon Friday, December 17, 2021.  The Legislature could also change the 2022 Primary Election from March to May 2022.  If this happens, the filing period would be in February 2022.”

(March 3, 2021 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart
Cleveland County Board of Education unanimously approved implementing a new school calendar to in the fall term. School will start on Monday, Aug 23, and end on Friday, June 3, 2022.
North Carolina law requires the term to begin on the Monday closest to August 26. Schools superintendent Dr. Stephen Fisher explained, “This is problematic because that schedule makes it difficult for students to complete exams before Christmas,” he said.
Two calendars were shared online for the community’s feedback: one that follows the current calendar, and another that would allow students to take exams before leaving for winter break.
Fisher shared that during the two-week window for community response, 769 people submitted their preference on the two school calendars offered. “Those in favor of the new calendar numbered 630, or 81%. Those who preferred to keep the current calendar numbered 139, or 18%.”
“The challenge with the new calendar is that it is out-of-balance,” Fisher said. “The first semester has 83 days, and the second semester has 97 days. But the second semester typically has bad weather in January and February, and A/P exams also take place in the spring.”
The school board unanimously approved the new calendar beginning in the fall.
In other business, it was determined that fifth-grade students in the Burns and Crest zone will return to in-classroom learning five days a week beginning Monday March 8. The Shelby and Kings Mountain zone will return to the classroom on Monday, March 22. Families who wish to continue remote-only learning continue to have that option.
  The board voted 7-2 in favor of this plan. Dena Green and Coleman Hunt voted against.

(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.