Kings Mountain Herald

Screen shot 2022 02 17 at 12.35.50 pm — DONALD CRAWFORD

Don Crawford led
by example, impacted thousands in his lifetime

By Loretta Cozart

William Donald “Don” Crawford, longtime Kings Mountain resident, died on Sunday, February 5 at his home in Matthews. He would have celebrated his 93rd birthday on February 26. He is survived by his second wife, Gloria Perkins-Crawford.
Don was born to Thomas Harmon Crawford and Ethel Reynolds Crawford in Kings Mountain. He was an industrious young man and joined scouting at the age of eleven.
Crawford joined Troop 5 in 1940 as a Cub Scout and picked up rocks for five cents an hour to pay for his uniform. The rocks were used to build the Scout clubhouse at the southeast corner of Cansler and Walker Streets. The rock house is now a private residence.
Crawford fell in love with scouting at an early age and his dedication to the program is well known. He rose to the rank of Eagle and the awards he has received over the years attest to his diligence and leadership locally, in the Piedmont Council, and in the state and nation. Manteo, NC, and Kings Mountain Lions Club and as Lions District Governor 31C also attest to his strong leadership. He continued to serve in the Kings Mountain Lions Club, the city’s oldest civic club.
While District 31C Governor in 1997 – 1998, Crawford led forty-two clubs in a high record of accomplishment by Lions. Crawford recorded the progress in a monthly newsletter, a big hit and drawing card for new members. The Friendship pin he distributed as a collectable was of a frontiersman and labeled, “A Mountain Top Experience.” Lions International presented him the Governor’s Award of Excellence.
NC Governor Mike Easley honored him with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest award to a civilian, in 2006. He is also recipient of the Silver Beaver award, the Order of the Arrow, and Charles Bell award, among others.
He retired from the US Post Office at Kings Mountain after 22 years after serving as a US Postal Inspector in 1964 and then working as a clerk. He was employed by the National Park Service eight years, including six years at Cape Hatteras National Seashore at Manteo and two years at Kings Mountain National Military Park.
After retiring in 1980, he became active in the real estate and insurance business. His love for genealogy has led to a huge book of family histories which required time-consuming research. He is on the board of Kings Mountain Historical Museum, and he uses his hobby of photography to snap pictures for the museum. He is an ardent supporter of events at the museum.
   Crawford has accompanied Scouts on 28-day trips to Philmont Ranch in New Mexico and as deputy camp chief for the USA visited Gilwell Park, the birthplace of scouting in England. Of that trip he said, “This is where a Scout or scouter gets his ticket punched, it’s like a Christian visiting the Holy Land or an ARP (he is a long, active member of Boyce Memorial ARP Church) going to Erskine college or Bon Clarken Assembly grounds.
   During his long tenure in scouting, he served Kings Mountain District, Piedmont Council, Battleground District, and Tidewater Council as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, wood badge Scoutmaster, assistant district commissioner, assistant Council commissioner and member of the Piedmont Council executive board to name a few of the positions he has held.
   Crawford estimated he trained over 50,000 Scouts. “I love Scouting and my Scouts keep in touch with me,’’ he once said.
   He attended ten national Boy Scout Jamborees. In 1973 and 1977 the national jamborees were held at Morane State Park, PA. He attended as a representative of the National Park Service on the conservation trail and was the Mountain Man firing a flint lock rifle, telling the difference of life then and now. He helped develop a living history program on the site which is still used by the National Park Service at Boy Scout Jamborees.
“My late wife, Joe Ann Blalock Crawford, always said Scouting was my first love and she was my second. Not so, we were married over 50 years and our daughter, Donna, earned the curved bar in Girl Scouting. I guess you could say we are a Scouting family,’’ he said.
   Don took oaths and the things he learned in scouting and church to heart. When he memorized the Scout oath, “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country,’’ the Scout law and Bible verses and the catechism at church they became real to him.
   A life member of Boyce Memorial ARP Church, he previously taught Sabbath School, was Sunday School superintendent and a past chairman of the board of deacons.
   Crawford said in a 2020 interview with the Herald, “Scouting continues to survive by keeping current with the needs of boys without sacrificing character building traits and helping boys develop into men of good, solid character.”
   In April 2016, the Piedmont Boy Scout Council honored Crawford with the distinguished National Eagle Scout Association award at a banquet at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory.
   Crawford received the Dr. Charles Bell Award at the third annual Friends of Scouting dinner on April 27, 2000, at First Baptist Church. East School was recognized for its contribution to Scouting through its successful Cub Scout program.
   That year, Pack 93 was honored as a “Quality Unit” for two straight years. Ninety-eight percent of all registered scouts advanced within the Pack, and over 80% regularly attended their Monday meetings at East School.
   Crawford has a legacy of leadership in Kings Mountain, from scouting to his work, religious, and charitable life. His work with youth has impacted thousands who knew him personally, or through the funds his charitable work impacted.

Kindergarten Orientation Day March 18

By Loretta Cozart

Kindergarten Orientation Day (K-Day) will be held on March 18 at our elementary schools. Registration will begin at 8:15 a.m. and the parent program will follow from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Call your elementary school today for additional information about the orientation.
Although each school will hold an orientation session, kindergarten registration will be held online and will become available by March 18 as well.
To enroll in kindergarten children must be five years of age by August 31, 2020. A health assessment form, Immunization records, and a birth certificate is required.

Screen shot 2022 02 10 at 11.21.57 am — HOUNDS DRIVE-IN PROPERTY

Hounds Campground
property sells for $40M

By Loretta Cozart

In documents recorded with the Cleveland County Register of Deeds Office in Shelby on December 22, Michael and Cynthia Brown sold 55.07 acres of land at 114 Raven Circle in Kings Mountain, currently occupied by Hounds Campground and Hounds Drive-in, to Albemarle U.S., Inc. for approximately $40 million dollars.
In a Memorandum of Lease, also recorded on December 22 at the Register of Deeds office, Albemarle U.S. Inc. leased the property back to the Browns for a period of five years.
As outlined in a Purchase Money Promissory Note dated December 22, it was defined that Albemarle U.S. would pay the Browns through a trustee $22 million dollars and the final date of the note is set as January 5, 2048.

Screen shot 2022 02 10 at 11.21.52 am — Aleiyah Yarbro

Woman’s Club
scholarship winner

GFWC NC Kings Mountain announced the winner of the Woman’s Club scholarship is Aleiyah Yarbro. The daughter of Christy Pearson and Timothy Yarbro, this Kings Mountain High School senior plans to attend a four-year university and work toward a registered nursing degree. The KMWC is proud to sponsor Aleiyah as she competes at the district level in the coming weeks.
Sallie Southall Cotten was a principal leader in the organization of the North Carolina Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1902. The Sallie Southall Cotten Scholarship was started to honor her legacy.

Screen shot 2022 02 10 at 11.22.04 am — Playwright, director, and performer Mike Wiley will hold a question-and-answer session after the performance. (Photos provided)

Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott on February 18
at Joy Performance Center

To honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mauney Memorial Library, and the City of Kings Mountain welcome Mike Wiley to perform, Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott at the Joy Performance Center on February 18 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon all travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. But there were others who came before Mrs. Parks and laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Tired Souls introduces audiences to Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin, and others so instrumental in lighting a fire under the Civil Rights movement and changing the course of U.S. history forever.
Immediately after production, the audience is invited to take part in a talkback with Mike Wiley. No photos or videography will be allowed during production.
The event is free and open to the public. The Joy Performance Center is located at 202 South Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain.

Screen shot 2022 02 10 at 11.22.44 am — Doug Crawford

W. Donald Crawford
dies at age 92

William Donald Crawford, longtime prominent Kings Mountain resident who was active in Boy Scouting for 80 years, longtime member of Boyce Memorial ARP Church, Kings Mountain Lions Club, and other civic and community service activities, died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2022, at his home in Matthews.
He was 92 and would have celebrated his 93rd birthday February 26.
Crawford was recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest award to a civilian by the Governor of. North Carolina and the Rev. Dr. Charles Bell award for scouting. He was District Governor for the International Association of Lions Clubs and Wood Badge Deputy Camp Chief of Boy Scouts of America.
Crawford was the son of the late Thomas and Ethel Reynolds Crawford. He was predeceased by his wife. JoeAnn Blalock Crawford and their daughter, Donna Ann Crawford Cornwell.
Graveside services will be held February 19, 2022, at 3 p.m. at Mountain Rest Cemetery.
“Don loved Kings Mountain and enjoyed people. He loved to get on his computer and share the memories with us,’’ said his wife, Gloria Perkins Crawford.

Screen shot 2022 02 03 at 10.10.47 am — The Gateway Trail 5K Walk & Fun Run draws hundreds of runners to Kings Mountain each year. (Photo provided)

Register now for Gateway Trail races

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Gateway Trail announces their 5K Walk & Fun Run on March 12 at the trailhead and their 10-Miler from February 28 to March 11.
The 5K Walk & Fun Run on March 12 starts at 9 a.m., and race packets are available on March 11 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the trailhead. Participants should wear a mask and stay 6-feet apart.
The 10-Miler Virtual Run is from February 28 to March 11 on Quarry Road to the trailhead, Galilee Church Road, and back. Runners must email their proof of distance and time to starr@finishwelltiming.com before midnight on March 11.
To register, visit runsignup.com or call 704.685-3549. Kings Mountain Gateway Trail is at 807 S. Battleground Avenue in Kings Mountain. For more information, visit www.kmgatewaytrails.org.
Trail events for 2022 include National Trails Day June 4, Story Walk June-July, and their photo contest in October.

Search begins for top talent
for triumphant return of
“Liberty Mountain” drama

The search begins to secure top talent for triumphant return of “Liberty Mountain” drama in Mountain Kings Mountain, NC:
The search is officially on as casting directors begin looking for talented actors, singers, and technicians to perform this summer in Liberty Mountain, the Revolutionary War era drama depicting the struggles and triumphs of the brave people who settled in the Carolinas and founded our nation. Playing onstage at the Joy Performance Center in Kings Mountain, cast members will learn to sword fight, fire replica muskets, dress up in incredible costumes, and charge into battle!
The company will host local auditions at the Joy Performance Center on Saturday, February 5th at 9:30am. Video submissions are also being accepted. Paid contracts are currently available, and those selected and hired will work alongside professional theatre staff to bring this massive production to life for the 2022 Summer Season.
“We are so excited to see this production return to the stage,” says director Caleb Sigmon. The company delayed performances for the past two summers due to the impact of COVID-19. “It’s a story that means so much to me, and it is an honor to bring it to life.”
The historically accurate production was written by playwright Bob Inman. Many will remember Inman from his significant career with WBTV. Since then, he has written a score of novels, Hallmark movies, plays, and musicals. The show will feature new and exciting moments that have been developed during these years off.
There are positions open in the following departments: Acting, Stage Management, Technical, Wardrobe, Wig & Makeup. Ideal candidates are highly driven, enthusiastic, imaginative, and have full availability for all dates. Rehearsals are June 4th - 23rd with performances June 24th - July 17th. Housing is provided for out-of-town company members. No previous professional experience necessary.
Please visit the website for complete audition information, along with details about how to submit an audition video or register for in-person auditions at the Joy Performance Center, 202 S. Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC. on Saturday, February 5th at 9:30am. www.LibertyMountainDrama.com

Screen shot 2022 02 03 at 10.11.23 am — Trent Troxel (third from left),Vice President of the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority, and Catawba Nation Assistant Chief Jason Harris (center) present a check for $10,000 to Hospice Cleveland County and the Cleveland County Partnership for Children. The funds were raised by the Catawba Two Kings Casino from patron donations. At the Jan. 21 presentation were (left to right) Tina Dellinger, Assistant Director of Cleveland County Partnership for Children; Shannon White, Executive Director of Cleveland County Partnership for Children; Myra McGinnis, President of Hospice Cleveland County; Pam Sharts, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Hospice; and Patty McMurry, Vice President of Access for Hospice. Photo provided

Catawba Two Kings Casino
donates $10,000 to
local nonprofits

The Catawba Two Kings Casino Share Change program has raised $5,000 each for Hospice Cleveland County and the Cleveland County Partnership for Children (CCPFC).
Share Change, the Catawba Nation’s charitable initiative through the casino, enables patrons to donate the remaining change on slot vouchers by dropping them in wishing wells and large ticket barrels located on the casino floor.
“The Share Change program is a way for Catawba Nation and Catawba Two Kings Casino to make a positive change in our community,” Catawba Assistant Chief Jason Harris said. “We thank our generous casino patrons and are happy to support such worthy organizations.”
Funds were raised for Hospice Cleveland County and Cleveland County Partnership for Children from October through Dec. 31, 2021.
Hospice Cleveland County has two houses (Wendover in Shelby and Testa in Kings Mountain) that provide peaceful environments for patients with life-limiting illness such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and debility and decline. Services at Hospice are provided regardless of ability to pay, with medications, supplies and equipment covered by Hospice Medicare Benefit. Bereavement services for the family and community are also available, as well as support groups and programs.
Wendover Hospice House was one of the first hospice houses in North Carolina and has served more than 5,000 patients since opening 25 years ago. Testa Family Hospice House is located about 1 mile from the Catawba Two Kings Casino and has served more than 1,700 patients since opening in 2010.
Hospice Cleveland County cares for about 50 percent of all deaths in Cleveland County. On a typical day, it serves about 150 patients, primarily in their own homes but also in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and its two hospice houses. In 2021, Hospice Cleveland County provided compassionate end-of-life care to nearly 900 patients and their family members.
“Hospice Cleveland County is very grateful to the Catawba Tribe and Two Kings Casino for their support,” said Myra McGinnis, president of Hospice Cleveland County. “This generous gift will enable us to provide excellent care for patients and their family members.”
Cleveland County Partnership for Children provides pre-k, Early Head Start and inclusive Smart Start programs that help children and families access high-quality and affordable childcare, health care and family support services. The goal of CCPFC is to partner with families, businesses, and the community to ensure children are healthy and ready for school. The organization has been leading early childhood education in Cleveland County since 1993.
“The Cleveland County Partnership for Children is so thankful to have the support of the Catawba Two Kings Casino,” said Executive Director Shannon White. “The donation will enable us to continue providing early childhood education and support for Cleveland County’s youngest learners and their families. Your contribution makes an impact, and we are extremely grateful that you decided to Come Grow With Us!”
The casino launched the Share Change program several weeks after its July opening and anticipates that the program will grow as the casino grows. The first $10,000 donation benefitted the Cleveland County Fund for Children and Adults with Disabilities, and new charitable recipients will be designated every three months.

Governor vetoes bill
to delay primary to June

On Friday, January 28, Governor Cooper vetoed House Bill 605, an act to “Set the date for the 2022 date for the 2022 primary as June 7, 2022; to allow the State Board of Elections to issue temporary rules for conducting the 2022 primaries and elections…”
According to the State Board of Elections, districts must be finalized by the week of February 14, just 12 days after the Supreme Court hears oral arguments in redistricting cases. This would give the courts a few days to make their decision before that deadline and would give the General Assembly little time to draw new maps if required.
Governor Cooper made the following statement on HB 605, “This bill is an additional attempt by Republican legislators to control the election timeline and undermine the voting process. The constitutionality of congressional and legislative districts is now in the hands of the North Carolina Supreme Court and the Court should have the opportunity to decide how much time is needed to ensure that our elections are constitutional.”
North Carolina Speaker of the House Tim Moore said, “House Bill 605 is a reasonable measure taken by the legislature to ensure a thorough and constitutional process. Unfortunately, Governor Cooper’s veto undermines that process in the name of politics.”
He continued, “Furthermore, during his time as Senate Redistricting Chair, Cooper presided over some of the most tortured and gerrymandered maps in state history. Now, he wants to sow chaos and confusion in the hopes that the Supreme Court will usurp the constitutional duty of the General Assembly to the benefit of his Democrat allies.”

Screen shot 2022 02 03 at 10.10.41 am — CENTRAL SCHOOL (Photo by Loretta Cozart)

Upset bid for
Central School reaches $909,665

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County Board of Education ended their second upset bid process for Central School on Monday, January 31, at 4 p.m., with a bid of $909,665 from David Stone. The school board voted to classify Central School at 105 E. Ridge Street in Kings Mountain as surplus property on October 11, and the property has since gone through two upset bid cycles.
The process started with sealed bids and Mike Brown won with an offer of $750,000.
The first upset bid cycle ended January 21 at 4 p.m. David Stone offered $825,000, and Mike Brown upset that bid with a second bid of $866,300.
The next upset bid cycle ends on Thursday, February 10, at 4 p.m.

Boom Supersonic brings 1,700 Triad jobs

Boom Supersonic, the high-profile aviation company building modern supersonic airliners for commercial service, will build its manufacturing and final assembly facility in Greensboro, creating more than 1,750 jobs by 2030, Governor Roy Cooper announced today. The project will bring an investment of more than $500 million through 2030 at a site located at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Guilford County.
“It is both poetic and logical that Boom Supersonic would choose the state that’s first in flight for its first manufacturing plant,” said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. “Like the success of the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, this innovative company will succeed by transforming passenger air travel with speed and sustainable energy.”
Boom Supersonic is redefining commercial air travel by bringing sustainable, supersonic flight to the skies. Boom’s historic commercial airliner, Overture, is designed and committed to industry-leading standards of speed, safety, and sustainability. Overture will be net-zero carbon, capable of flying on
100% sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) at twice the speed of today’s fastest passenger jets. Overture has garnered significant commercial interest, including orders and options from United Airlines and Japan Airlines as well as contracts with the U.S. Air Force for government applications    .
   Named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2021, the Boom XB-1 demonstrator aircraft rolled out in 2020, and its carbon neutral flight test program is underway. The company’s manufacturing plant in North Carolina, called the Overture Superfactory at Piedmont Triad International Airport, will house the company’s first final assembly line, test facility, and customer delivery center.
   “Selecting the site for Overture manufacturing is a significant step forward in bringing sustainable supersonic air travel to passengers and airlines,” said Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. “With some of the country’s best and brightest aviation talent, key suppliers, and the state of North Carolina’s continued support, Boom is confident that Greensboro will emerge as the world’s supersonic manufacturing hub.”
   The North Carolina Department of Commerce coordinated the state’s recruitment of Boom, which also involved state, regional, and local organizations.
   “Ever since the Wright Brothers but even more so today, the aviation and aerospace sector drives a significant part of the North Carolina economy,” said Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “We’ve reached this achievement by developing specialized workforce development programs for this industry, and as our state strategic plan for economic development makes clear, we’ll keep working to make North Carolina First in Talent, and not just First in Flight.”
   The project from Boom Technology, Inc., operating as Boom Supersonic, will be facilitated, in part, by a High-Yield Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today, the first JDIG of this classification ever awarded. Boom’s project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by at least $32.3 billion over 20 years, the time period when the grant could be active. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the 1,761 new jobs, and accounting for a company investment of $500 million, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $87.2 million, paid over a time period of 20 years.
Like all grants from the JDIG program, any state payments only occur following performance verification each year by the departments of Commerce and Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets.
   Boom’s JDIG agreement also calls for moving as much as $9.6 million into the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. The Utility Account helps rural communities anywhere in the state finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business.
   The state approved additional support to help with final site preparations at the Piedmont Triad International Airport as part of the recently passed state budget (North Carolina House Bill 334). The legislature appropriated $106.7 million to the Department of Commerce to be used for site and road improvements and the construction of one or more aircraft hangars.
Salaries for the new jobs will vary by position, but taken together will average $68,792, increasing the regional payroll by more than $120 million every year. The Guilford County average annual wage stands currently at $53,994.
   “Boom Supersonic’s decision to build its new campus in North Carolina proves once again that we are a top state for job creators and have a deep pool of talented workers,” Senator Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, said. “Over the past decade we’ve turned North Carolina into a jobs-friendly state with low taxes, reasonable regulations, and a world-class education system. Today’s announcement is a result of that transformation.”
   “We’re excited to see even more new jobs and investment come to North Carolina thanks to the thriving economic environment in our state,” said North Carolina Speaker of the House Tim Moore. “Boom Supersonic will write the next chapter of North Carolina’s great aviation story, and they’ll do it right here in the Piedmont Triad region.”
   Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C. on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Duke Energy, the Piedmont Triad Partnership, Guilford County, Forsyth County, the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority, the City of Greensboro, the City of High Point, the City of Winston-Salem, the Carolina Core, the Guilford County Economic Development Alliance, and the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce.

KM man dies after being struck by train

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Police Department responded to the area of South Railroad Avenue and Elm Street in reference to a pedestrian on the train tracks being struck by a train on January 28 just after 4 a.m.
Michael Wayne Price died at the scene from his injuries. There were no other victims or injuries reported. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sgt. P.W. Alexander with the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444.

Screen shot 2022 02 03 at 10.11.07 am — The façade of the building maintains the original look, including the marquee, with residential above and in the rear, and mercantile below to the front. Photos from StoneWright Realty

Imperial Lofts opening
downtown this Spring

By Loretta Cozart

Last week, David Stone, of StoneWright Realty, took the Herald on a walkthrough of The Imperial Lofts, upscale living units in the heart of Kings Mountain, where residents can work, live, and play in the heart of downtown.
The two-story brick building sits across Mountain Street from the former Griffin Drug Store. Lofts are pre-leasing now, and range in price from $1,200 to $1,450 per month per unit.
The Imperial Lofts will house six loft style apartments with a mercantile shop below. According to Stone, “A modern day general store has leased our retail space and will open in Spring 2022.”
The second floor has been framed-in for six apartments ranging in size from 430 sq. ft. to 1,060 sq. ft. and features one two-bedroom, two-bath apartment, one studio, and three 1-bedroom apartments. The two-bedroom apartment is 1,060 sq. ft. and the 1-bedroom apartments are each approximately 730 sq. ft. The studio is approximately 430 sq. ft.
This week, Stone plans to open former windows, bricked over in the early eighties, along the alleyway to bring in more ambient light into the space.
The Imperial Lofts are Kings Mountain’s first modern loft / studio / apartment building in the downtown area. Recent development downtown has brought new restaurants and retail, and City of Kings Mountain’s Streetscape work has been planned in the area this year.
“I plan ahead for projects like this and have everything in place to get the job done quickly. When I pull the trigger on a project, we are fully committed. We have a timeline and expect to be finished with the lofts in May,” Stone said.
The Imperial is a commercial building located in downtown at 138 W. Mountain Street
Kings Mountain that was constructed in 1920s and served primarily as a movie theater, named The Imperial Theater. Since the late 1950's the building was the home to several billiard businesses and was most recently operated as The Friendly Billiards.

New group submits bid for Central School

By Loretta Cozart

Central School Renovation Partners, LLC reached out to the Herald on Friday, January 21 to share that they had submitted a bid for the Central School property at 105 Ridge Street in Kings Mountain.
According to David Stone, representative for the group, “We have a two-pronged approach regarding this property. First, we hope to preserve Central School as a valuable asset for Kings Mountain. Secondly, our group is made up of a team who can work with the community and are experienced in this field. We have experience in redevelopment for commercial and residential construction, as well as new commercial and residential construction. And we have the confidence we will be successful restoring and protecting this property. Buying it is only one piece of the puzzle.”
The group is working with Shelby Historic Foundation and Preservation North Carolina to ensure protective covenants will be placed on the property, to protect it into the future.
“The property is important because it is walkable to downtown. It is also located in the heart of the Central School Historic District and several school buildings have anchored that community for more than a century,” Stone shared.
Investors are integral to the success of this project because the property needs significant renovation, as well. When asked what plans the group has for the property should they be awarded the bid, Stone adds, “We are listening to the community for best uses of the property. We are considering commercial / residential mixed-use, with market rate and affordable housing or possibly small business / residential. We can learn from what others have done successfully and protect the property in the process. We are excited about this project and, if we win the bid, we are going to do it right.”

Screen shot 2022 01 27 at 2.24.36 pm — Central School (Photo by Liz Harlow)

City declined purchase
of Central School;
current bid is $866,300

By Loretta Cozart

Sources say City of Kings Mountain representatives declined to acquire Central School offered by Cleveland County School Board after being invited to tour the facility in March/April of 2021.
Given that decision, the Herald asked city council their stance on the acquisition of the school property and their reason(s) behind their decision. The email was sent on January 19 to Mayor Scott Neisler and council members Keith Miller, David Allen, Mike Butler, Jay Rhodes, Annie Thombs, and Jimmy West. Councilman Tommy Hawkins name was inadvertently omitted from the email.
No city council members replied to the query from the Herald, but several emails from the Mayor arrived mid-afternoon on Friday. Mayor Neisler wrote, “From time to time, we have looked at the gym for possibilities in recreation, but never considering the entire property. I had heard that Cleveland Community College had long-range plans to locate a satellite campus in Kings Mountain, which would have been a great tenant. Upon contacting Jason Hurst, he was not interested in the building, and with most of the tenants not paying that much in rent supporting the operations of the building, it was a bleak scenario.”
“The utilities, maintenance, and renovation costs would be astronomical,” the mayor continued. “It was the consensus by a few council members that it wouldn’t be a good investment for the taxpayers in Kings Mountain.”
“I believe that it was always our intention to facilitate finding someone that would develop the property taking its historical significance into account. But I don’t believe we ever investigated it to become owners of the building unless it was self-sustaining.”
“We asked the school board for more time in helping evaluate, including the level 1 environmental assessment, but in their regular meeting, they voted to start the upset bid process, which is their prerogative to do,” he said.
When asked which council members voted against acquiring the property, the Mayor replied, “We never discussed it at Council meeting, nor did I even know it was up for sale until I heard someone had offered a bid. In my discussions with a few council members, not all members, it didn’t look like it would pass to buy the building. So, we didn’t have a formal vote as it looked like it was destined to fail.”
At the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 19, that board unanimously declined the opportunity to acquire Central School. And on October 11, the Cleveland County Board of Education voted to place Central School on their surplus property list, pending the County Commissioners’ decision. The sealed bid process ended on November 3 at 4 p.m.
In early November, the City of Kings Mountain formed an ad-hoc committee with the help of five citizens. The group offered ideas for preserving the building and other ways to protect the property long-term. Loretta Cozart of the Herald also participated on that committee.
In early January, Mayor Neisler discussed the ad-hoc committee’s ideas with CCS’ Superintendent Dr. Stephen Fisher, but the City of Kings Mountain did not submit a proposal. As a result, CCS awarded the bid to Mike Brown at $750,000. Bidding then went into an upset bid process, with the second deadline ending January 21, at 4 p.m. As of 5 p.m. Friday, the high bid has now reached $866,300.
The next upset bid deadline is Monday, January 31, at 4 p.m.

Museum prepares for new headwear exhibit

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Historical Museum is preparing for their new exhibit: Hats Off! A History of Headwear that opens on Tuesday, February 22. In the interim the museum’s lobby and gift shop will remain open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but the museum exhibit area is currently closed for exhibit preparation.
KMHM features changing exhibits and events throughout the year, and a treasured model train show during the holidays. The permanent collection ranges from 1860s vintage clothing, World War I & II memorabilia, textiles, and archival collections of documents and photographs.
At this time, face masks are required to enter the museum.

Screen shot 2022 01 27 at 2.24.23 pm — DOUG SHARP

Cleveland County Potato Project seeks new leadership

By Doug Sharp

Cleveland County Potato Project is a local charity that has produced over one million pounds of potatoes and given them away during the past eleven years. However, several of the founding group are showing signs of wear and tear. (We do not wish to think of this as age.) The following information is provided to give an idea of what it is like to run a 501c3 charity. Note, there is no compensation, just a good feeling of helping people in need.
CCPP is faith based, volunteer driven, dependent on donations of land usage, equipment usage, financial support, etc. Potatoes are distributed by groups such as the Salvation Army, the Baptist Association, Kings Mtn. Crisis Ministry and other providers of food to needy people. Financial support comes from individuals and grants.
CCPP needs tractor help and someone to provide leadership. Someone with a large tractor and the ability to work at different locations would be worth his/her weight in potatoes. There are a lot of retired or semi-retired people in the county who match these requirements. We would like to have more than one volunteer for this need. In an average week we need tractor work for 6 to 12 hours per week from May to Nov.
The oversight/leadership spot could be filled by someone who is recently retired, bored, tried of daytime TV, whatever. Maybe someone who is bothered by the fact that many county residents do not have enough to eat. Being a member of a supportive church has been very helpful to the current leader. Having support from a civic club or other organization could be helpful. This is a responsibility that could be shared. Knowledge of farming is not necessary. There are thousands of folks in the county who know all about faming. Most of them like to share this knowledge. A streak of stubbornness may be an asset. A team of two or more people could be very effective. Also, it is helpful to believe that people working together can achieve significant goals.
Anyone who feels an interest in the opportunity is requested to contact Doug Sharp at 704 472 5128, or dwsharp428@aol.com, Bill McMurrey at bcmurrey@carolina.rr.com, or Travis Mangum at Mangum Associates, travis@mangum-associates.com.

Screen shot 2022 01 27 at 2.24.17 pm — Mauney Memorial Library

Upcoming 100th celebration
Library calls for
Hord Mansion items

By Loretta Cozart

The staff at Mauney Memorial Library are planning the 100th celebration of the Hord Mansion’s existence, to be celebrated in 2023.
Library Services Manager Christina Martin ask citizens, “If you have any pictures, memorabilia or ephemera of the Hord Mansion, we would appreciate being able to digitize (or keep) the item to use in our research and planning. Any Kings Mountain newspapers from the 1920’s would especially be appreciated, as the library does not own any.”
Mauney Memorial Library is located at 100 S. Piedmont Avenue in Kings Mountain.

Patriots roll
over Shelby

Kings Mountain Middle’s boy’s basketball team ran its record to 2-0 last week with a 51-36 win over Shelby.
KM got off to a slow start that saw Shelby take an 8-4 lead in the first two minutes. But the Patriots picked up their defensive tempo and went on a 17-0 run as all five starters scored from the field.
KM led 21-8 after the first period as Tucker Robinette scored seven of his team high 19 points.
The second quarter saw KM grow cold from the field. Bradley Floyd scored four of his 11 points and Charlie Foster’s stellar defensive performance helped KM maintain a 29-20 lead at the half.
The Patriots came out blazing in the third quarter with a 10-1 run, led by Robinette’s four points and Josiah Guyton’s long two-pointer to extend the lead to 39-21.
KM picked up its defensive intensity and held the Blue Devils to just one field goal in the quarter to extend its lead to 44-25.
A pair of free throws by Brayden Mull gave the Pats their largest lead, 46-25, with 4:30 remaining in the game. Coryon Gaines’ free throw with a minute left finished the scoring.
Robinette finished with 19 points and three boards; Bradley Floyd 10 points, five rebounds and five assists; Charlie Foster eight points, seven boards and nine blocks; Caleb Nixon six points, Brayden Mull five points, Josiah Guyton two and Coryon Gaines one.
KM shot 59 percent from inside the arch (17 for 29) and 48 percent for the game. The Patriots had 10 stea;s, nine assists and 12 blocks.
KM was scheduled to host Burns Tuesday.

Let it snow!

By Loretta Cozart

The City of Kings Mountain got approximately four inches of snow on Sunday, January 16 during the overnight hours into the day on Sunday. With days of advance notice by local weather teams, citizens prepared for the weather and buying groceries for the days ahead. Luckily, the following Monday was the Dr. Martin Luther King observance, so many in the community already had the day off.
“I estimate we got about four inches of snow, said Mayor Scott Neisler. “With winds up during the day, most of the tree branches and power lines were blown free of snow, so we hopefully won’t have many problems with that. And we didn’t have any major power outages, either.”
Citizens took to heart warnings to stay at home, and most followed those directions unless they had to go out for work.
Once the heaviest of snow fell, families ventured out for an afternoon of playing in the snow or enjoying scenes of Kings Mountain blanketed in snow.

Km in the show 2022 photo by liz harlow — Downtown Kings Mountain in the first snow of 2022. See more snow photos inside today’s edition. Photo by Liz Harlow

Patriots park photo by liz harlow — Patriots Park - Photo by Liz Harlow

Photo byjennifer worcester — Wintery Wonderland! Photo byJennifer Worcester

Photo by denise pete cobb — Photo by Denise and Pete Cobb

Scenes from KM’s first 2022 snow

See inside this week's KM Herald (January 19, 2022) for photographers names.

https://www.kmherald.com/2022-e-editions

Philip mark bryson iii photo by jeanna j. bryson

Perry and tyler russell photo by sharon lawson russell

Laci webb and hannah ernst photo by christy ernst webb

Kamryn willis turned 1 yesterday and snow today photo by his mom chelsie gann

Cameron jacklynn hord photo by jennifer fite hord

Bro chip and martha sloan with their grandchildren sloan titus markie and hayes by joy sloan laney

Bre'asia ellis photo by colisa bess durham

Screen shot 2022 01 19 at 1.51.38 pm — Central School

School Board accepts
$750,00 bid on Central School
upset bid process begins

By Loretta Cozart

On Monday, January 10 Cleveland County School Board met in closed session before announcing acceptance of a sealed bid of $750,000 for Central School. At the boards October 11 meeting, the board voted to sell the school and its 5.5 acres of land as surplus property. According to Cleveland County GIS, the property is valued at $1.6 million dollars.
The timeline for the initial sealed bid process took just 19 days, after Cleveland County School’s listed the property on their website on October 15, four days before Cleveland County Commissioners officially declined to take the property.
According to the surplus property notification, all sealed bids had to be received by 4 p.m. on November 3. At Cleveland County’s school board meeting on November 8, the board voted to table the decision on the sale of Central School for 60-days, until January 10.
School policy is to afford the board of county commissioners the first opportunity to obtain any real property at the fair market price or a price negotiated between the two boards. County Commissioners met on October 19 and voted to decline the opportunity.
Kings Mountain resident Michael Smith spoke during the school board’s November meeting and asked, “What’s the hurry? The school board has asked for 12-months to vacate this building that sits at the heart of the historic district. Citizens nearby should be given the opportunity to have input regarding what happens with Central School.”
The upset bid process has begun for this property and the next deadline for bids is January 21 at 4 p.m.

Screen shot 2022 01 05 at 4.12.26 pm — Rosa Parks with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Photos provided

Joy Performance Center February 18
Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott postponed

To honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mauney Memorial Library, and the City of Kings Mountain welcome Mike Wiley to perform, Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott at the Joy Performance Center on Friday, February 18.
Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon all travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. But there were others who came before Mrs. Parks and laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Tired Souls introduces audiences to Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin, and others so instrumental in lighting a fire under the Civil Rights movement and changing the course of U.S. history forever.
Immediately after production, the audience is invited to take part in a talkback with Mike Wiley. No photos or videography will be allowed during production.
The event, scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm, is free and open to the public. The Joy Performance Center is located at 202 South Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain.

City of KM Special Events: 2021 year in review (Photos)

Wendell visits area schools in march — Wendell visited area schools on March 30, 2021. (Photos by KM Special Events)

April's earth day butterfly release — April’s Earth Day-Butterfly Release at the Gateway Trail.

The wonderland experience april — Children pose with Dorothy during the Wonderland Experience on April 1-3, 2021.

Concert series new york beegees may — Kicking-off the concert series on May 1, 2021 were the New York Bee Gees.

Memorial day may — Memorial Day was observed on May 31, 2021.

Pickin at the park thursdays in june — Pickin At The Park began on June 1, 2021 and was so popular it continued through the warmer months.

East coast party band june 5 — The East Coast Party Band performed on June 5, 2021 as families enjoyed the music.

Redwhiteboom — Red White and Boom Festival-Two Celebrations One City was held on July 3, 2021.

Concert series voltage brothers july 4 — Kings Mountain’s Concert Series continued with the Voltage Brothers on July 17th. (Photos by KM Special Events)

National night out aug 3 — On August 3, citizens and first responders celebrated a safe and fun evening at Patriots Park.

Nc beachblast festival aug 20 21 — NC BeachBlast Festival brought the crowds to Kings Mountain on August 20 & 21, 2021.

Patriots day sept 11 — Citizens gathered to remember first responders on Patriots Day as Chief Tommy Harmon addresses the crowd.

Concert series on the boarder september 7 — On the Border performed at Patriots Park on September 11, 2021 as crowds danced the night away.

Great pumpkin story walk october — Children and parents alike enjoyed the Great Pumpkin Story Walk in October.

Pumpkin palooza beetlejuice — Beetlejuice poses with a young man prior to the movie start during Pumpkin Palooza in Patriots Park.

Veteran's day abraham ruff u.s. army sgm november — Abraham Ruff, U.S. Army, SGM speaks during the 2021 Veterans Day Observance on November 11, 2021.

Home for christmas celebration december — Kids enjoy the train during the Home for Christmas celebration.

Everyone gets in the spirit during the christmas parade — Everyone gets in the spirit during the Christmas Parade on December 4, 2021.

Elves help a young lady with her letter for santa december — Elves help a young lady with her letter for Santa.

Kings mountain observes the national day of prayer — Kings Mountain observed the National Day of Prayer at City Hall on May 6, 2021.

Screen shot 2022 01 12 at 4.53.36 pm — A sign in the old Plonk building announces a new restaurant coming to town. Photo by Loretta Cozart

A sign of something new
to come

By Loretta Cozart

While walking around downtown Kings Mountain, signs of things to come are everywhere. In the building that once housed Plonk’s Department Store on Railroad Avenue for decades, a new sign in the window announces, “Coming Soon! Streets of Napoli, Italian Restaurant and Bar! Authentic Italian cuisine. Fresh made pasta, seafood, salad, dessert.”
In November 2021, Tony Cappola announced the new restaurant on social media sharing, “In Kings Mountain, Railroad. We are happy to announce our new location! Will be A Street of Napoli using Nonna'italian Bistro menu by Tony Coppola. Menu will be all fresh made A LA CARTA.”
• 2 fish a week
• 2 meat a week
• 2 pasta a week
• Salads, desserts
Cappola continued, “Our bar will have imported Italian wine, prosecco, Spritz, limoncello. We need to thank Mr. Robert Bolin our landlord. for both locations. We look forward to serving you Early spring.”
While the building shows no progress in this direction currently, an estimated time to open is early spring.

Screen shot 2022 01 12 at 4.53.31 pm — D&T Investment Group

Page and Teague arrested for scamming investors

By Loretta Cozart

Austin Page and Brandon Teague, owners of D&T Investment Group in Kings Mountain, were arrested on Friday, Dec. 31, in New York, according to court records.
Based upon a review of the D&T account records from Bank of America from the accounts’ inception in November 2020 through August 2021 by an FBI Forensic Accountant, according to a criminal complaint filed in United States District Court for Western NC on December 14, it appears that millions of dollars in investor money was deposited into these accounts. It does not appear that most investor funds were invested. Instead, it appears that Page and Teague used a significant amount of investor funds to make “Ponzi payments” to other investors and to pay personal expenses of Page and Teague, to include the following:
a. Over $100,000 in Zelle transfers to Austin Page.
b. Over $50,000 in Zelle transfers to Brandon Teague.
c. Over $450,000 in cash withdrawals.
d. Over $70,000 in luxury car rentals.
e. Over $66,000 to Caesars Palace and Caesars Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
f. Over $40,000 in other hotel expenses.
g. Over 30,000 in Airbnb expenses.
h. Over $30,000 in purchases from Bentley’s restaurant.
i. Over $20,000 in purchases from Louis Vuitton.
j. Over $20,000 in purchases from Nordstrom.
k. Over $18,000 in purchases from Total Wine; and l. Numerous other personal expenses.
The complaint concluded that probable cause exists that Austin Delano Page and Brandon
Alexander Teague operated what is commonly referred to as a “Ponzi” scheme, and that they have
now fled to Italy.
Based upon the foregoing, your Affiant submits there is probable cause to believe that from at least November 2020 through December 2021, in the Western District of North Carolina, and elsewhere, Austin Delano Page and Brandon Alexander Teague, with the intent to defraud, devised a scheme to defraud and/or obtain money by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations or promises, and, for the purpose of executing or attempting to execute that scheme, they knowingly sent or caused to be sent and delivered by the Postal Service, various materials, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1341.

KM Herald headlines
2021 year in review (Part 2)

By Loretta Cozart

(Ed. Note: This is the second of a two-part article looking back on 2021 and how the Kings Mountain Herald brought hometown, community news, and local issues to our readers. We at Community Media wish you a Happy New Year!)

July:
• The Catawba Two Kings Casino pre-launch facility in Kings Mountain opened to the public at noon on July 1, after Catawba Nation Chief Bill Harris cut a ceremonial ribbon with tribal, local, and state government leaders.
• Wells Fargo Bank at 125 S. Battleground Avenue will close its Kings Mountain branch on Wednesday, July 14. according to Mike Hughes, Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo State and Local Government Relations, due to more transactions being handled digitally.
• After months of work involving city staff and consultants. Kings Mountain's new Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) was approved. The new zoning ordinance replaces former zoning used by the city. All cities within the state had to develop and implement a new UDO that had to be implemented July 1.
• Lady Mountaineer basketball star Trina Hamrick to be inducted into Kings Mountain Hall of Fame.
• Cleveland County Health Department has partnered with Star Med to host several free pop-up COVID vaccine clinics throughout the month of July and making access to the vaccine as convenient as possible for people in various areas of the county.
• Thanks to the City of Kings Mountain and Cleveland County Music Hall of Fame, Pickin' at The Park, a weekly acoustic jam session was held Thursday nights in Downtown Kings Mountain at the Gazebo in Patriots Park.
• On July 8, the Cleveland County Health Department was notified of a fox that tested positive for rabies. This is the second rabid animal identified in the county this year. The animal was found at Harris Creek Rd, Lawndale. NC.
• Appalachian Gear Company, an outdoor lifestyle company specializing in American-made performance apparel and gear, announced its expansion into a new manufacturing facility in Kings Mountain. The move allows the brand to significantly increase production of its award-winning All-Paca™ products, while creating jobs in the Charlotte metropolitan area.
• Mike Butler decided to open Butler's Garage in 1995, little did he know that his son; Bryan; who was about to graduate college at UNC-Charlotte, would follow in his footsteps twenty-four years later.
• Cleveland County Potato Project asked for help from the community. Dry weather conditions prevented the growth of tender young sweet potato slips and a three-acre plot was plowed up and replanted. Re-planting is an extra expense for the project, and they are asking for financial donations to offset this cost. Anyone or any group wishing to contribute was encouraged to do so by saying a prayer, volunteering, or donating.
• During the last year, Mauney Memorial Library has undergone some much-needed renovations, including a new roof, plasterwork, paint, window restoration, new storm windows, and new flooring. The efforts taken by the city have returned the luster to this community landmark.
• Real to Reel Film Festival is back in-person at the Joy Theatre. The Cleveland County Arts Council announced it would be back at the Joy Theatre to offer fantastic cinema to film festival goers for the 22nd year.
• The Kings Mountain Herald learned that a Biscuitville and an A&W Restaurant are in the works for Kings Mountain, but neither restaurant shared a timeline for breaking ground.
• Shane and Sherryl Adams opened Trackview Hall Event Center, a venue at 205 S. Battleground Avenue in downtown Kings Mountain.
• Kings Mountain Little Theatre announced their next major project for the Joy Performance Center and Liberty Mountain Garden. This major renovation will enhance the original Joy Theater design elements for the façade: will extend the lobby area and add bathrooms.
• Equus Partners received approval from Kings Mountain City council to construct a 300,000 sq. ft. shell building and to provide financial incentives.
• Downtown WI-FI installation began in July and was completed by August 31.
• On July 19 Governor Roy Cooper announced the appointment or Doug Sharp as the Chairman of the Cleveland County Board or Elections. Subsequently, Board members were sworn in. Board members include Debbie Cleary, Mary Accor, Doug Sharp. Allen Langley. and Al Paskoy.
• A train collided with a lawn care truck at the intersection of Battleground Avenue and W. Gold Street. The truck’s trailer became stuck, and all passengers exited safely prior to impact.
August:
• Cleveland County Commission for Women announced that KMPD Police Chief Lisa Proctor and Terricia Wingo would be honored at the 29th annual Distinguished Women’s Banquet.
• Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, M.D. announced that state government would begin verifying vaccination status of its workers.
• NC House Speaker says vaccine choice is a personal matter.
• American Legion World Series celebrates 10-years in Shelby.
• A new cell phone tower at 500 S. Railroad Avenue was installed by Verizon by Baker Donaldson.
• On August 3, Kings Mountain celebrated National Night Out in a big way at Patriots Park. Kids and parents turned out to celebrate, meeting officers, deputies, and first responders, along with others from Kings Mountain who support safe communities.
• Construction has revealed the original brickwork façade of the Joy Theater as renovations of the 74-year-old building continue. Underneath, the stone are bricks ran in a stack bond pattern. Along the wall, cinder blocks fill the once used outdoor display areas that showcased movie posters advertising running and upcoming films.
• Gardner-Webb introduces their new mascot, Bo the Bulldog.
• Kings Mountain Touchdown Club golf tournament raises $88,190.
• Kings Mountain High School live stream experience returned to the gridiron with a complete broadcasting team, cost to watch per game was $10.
September:
• George Melton, Past Master of Fairview Masonic Lodge, was honored for his service during World War II. George was presented a Certificate of Honor and a North Carolina flag, certified by the Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives that said flag flew over the State Capital building.
• Governor Cooper signed into law SB 35, ending marriage before the age of 16-years of age in North Carolina. The only caveat would be that a 16 - or 17-year-old would have to provide proof that their partner is no more than four years older.
• Atrium Health, NCDHHS, and HHS partner to expand access to monoclonal antibody therapy to treat COVID-19 patients.
• City of Kings Mountain saluted first responders on 911.
• Benestar Brands new building progresses toward completion as it moves toward completion.
• Kings Mountain Little Theater, Inc. announced a Capital Campaign in support of their project to renovate the mail lobby and provide for the long-awaited expansion of the restrooms and concessions area of the Joy Performance Center.
• Battle of Kings Mountain featured in new fiction novel by John Hood.
• Police Officer Tim Simms was sworn in by KMPD on September 9.
• Chip and Laura McGill recently made a S 10,000 donation to the Kings Mountain Touchdown Club in memory of Brent Bagwell.
• In a press conference, Cleveland County shared dire news. Cleveland County announced it was in crisis. Cleveland county had experienced 78 average daily hospitalizations, far more than surrounding counties.
• Dr. June Hadden Hobbs and Joe DePriest were the guest speakers at Broad River Genealogy Society at their September meeting. The two have a new book titled "Tales and Tombstones of Sunset Cemetery: Tracing Lives and Memorial Customs in a Southern Graveyard." featuring photos by Hal Bryant.
• MountainTrue announced the 34th Annual WNC Big Sweep. This is Western North Carolina's largest single-day river, roadside, and creek cleanup with volunteer events taking place all around Western North Carolina.
• KM Mainstreet program holds a window decorating contest downtown.
• Cleveland County School Board decided to continue the mask mandate in schools.
• Due to the dire COVID-19 situation in Cleveland County, some communities cancel mass gatherings.
• Pfizer booster shots available for high-risk groups.
• YMCA golf tournament raises financial assistance funds.
October:
• Kings Mountain Corporate Center, a 1,015,740 sq. ft. speculative building by Keith Corporation is the largest of its kind in the southeast.
• Work begins to expand Catawba Two Kings Casino pre-launch facility from 500 to 1,000 slot machines.
• Kings Mountain Woman’s Club held a benefit concert featuring The Dancing Fleas at Joy Performance Center.
• Boys and Girls Club planned for North Elementary School
• Kay and Tommy Hawkins decorated their yard for the Fall. Well known in the Linwood community, the Hawkin’s home is well known for its beautiful decorations.
• Cleveland County Health Department urges everyone to get a flu vaccine.
• Col. Frederick DAR Chapter announces date for Wreaths Across America Day on December 18.
• Brock O’Brien continues to heal after car crash in Charlotte.
• Cleveland County School Board votes to sell Central School and property behind Grover Elementary School.
• American Legion Unit 155 hosts district meeting at the post home on E. Gold Street.
• Bess Phifer celebrates her 104th birthday.
• Shaniah Wright was crowned the 2021 KMHS Homecoming Queen Friday, October 15. She is the daughter of Joe and Theresa Wright and stepdaughter of Talathia Wright.
• County commissioners decline opportunity to purchase Central School.
• City of Kings Mountain meet with stakeholders regarding the Streetscape plan.
• Catawba Two Kings Casino raises $10,000 through its new and ongoing Share Change program
• raised $10,000 for the Cleveland County Fund for Children and Adults with Disabilities.
• The Mecklenburg and Battle of Kings Mountain Chapters, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Colonel Frederick Hambright Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, conducted a grave marking ceremony honoring Doyle Edward Campbell at Mountain Rest Cemetery on Saturday. October 23, at 11 a.m.
• Helen Williams Bullock celebrates her 104th birthday.
November:
• Veterans Day Observance and parade held on November 11 at Patriots Park.
• City transitioned to new OpenGov software on November 1.
• Appalachian Gear Company awarded a $50,000 NC Building Reuse Grant for the 10,000-square-foot building where Appalachian plans to expand its manufacturing operations in downtown Kings Mountain.
• On Monday. November 1 at 7:30 p.m. the Pottery Studio at Kings Mountain Art Center went up in flames. The extent of the damage is not immediately known, and the cause of the fire had not yet been determined when the story went to press. The blaze in SASi’s Pottery Studio was reported around 7:30 p.m. Monday night by Jewel Reavis and a neighbor who spotted the flames.
• Arlene “Go-Go” Barrett celebrated her 90th birthday.
• Kings Mountain Baptist celebrated their Fall Fun drive through on October 31, as member of the church handed out goodie bags to children.
• Anne Gamble was honored by the DAR for her work with children’s literacy.
• Police Chief Lisa Proctor and Terricia Wingo were honored at the 29th annual Distinguished Women’s Banquet at the LeGrand Center in Shelby.
• Foothills Farmers Market in Shelby announced it would be open year-round.
• Gaston College broke ground for their new Fiber Innovation Center.
• Cleveland County School Board voted to make masks optional for students. Under state law, school boards across North Carolina are required to hold a public vote every month on their policies regarding wearing masks at school, regardless of whether officials plan to change the policy.
• Murphey’s 27th annual Toy Run was slated for November 20. The ride benefits the Shriner's Burn Center, Oxford Home for Children, and King's Mountain Police Department's Toy Drive.
• Kings Mountain native and 96.9 The Kat's own Sarah Lee Owensby, was selected as Grand Marshal for the Kings Mountain ‘'Home for Christmas" Parade scheduled for December 4.
• The CDC makes COVID-19 Booster shots made available to all adults 18-years old and older.
December:
• A Christmas Tree lighting was held in Patriots Park on November 23. Councilmen assisted with the formal tree lighting ceremony.
• Mauney Memorial Library hosted a Zoom Author Talk presentation featuring Suzanne Woods Fisher on Thursday, December 9 at 2 p.m. Join Suzanne as she discusses her book, Seasons on the Wind.
• AGAPE recipient, Roxanne Baucom, and HERO recipient, Heather Starnes, were honored by North School. Mrs. Baucom has a positive and bright outlook. As the lead custodian, she diligently worked to adjust to new chemicals, new protocols. new schedules, and the pressure of keeping everyone at North safe. Fourth grade student Heather Starnes has an unspecified autoimmune disorder and suffers from severe fatigue at times. Heather maintained her grades and was an awesome virtual participant during class lessons. She serves as a great role model for her peers, and staff were excited to have her back face-to-face this year.
• The state budget was signed into law, after passing both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly The final budget included several items lor Kings Mountain. Those include:
• S39 million for Kings Mountain water and sewer projects
• $250.000 for Kings Mountain take Moss nr- mediation
• 5100,000 to Kings Mountain
• $750.000 for the Kings Mountain Y MC A
• Keyboards at Christmas was presented with two performances on Sunday, December 19th at 3:00 and 6:00 PM, at First Baptist Church, Kings Mountain.
• An expanded pre-launch facility with an additional 500 gaming machines, including electronic table games offering blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat, is anticipated to open Dec. 15 at the Catawba Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain.
• On November 30, Lieutenant Todd Me Dougal was awarded his service weapon and badge for 17-years of service to Kings Mountain Police Department, after service to other law enforcement agencies.
• On December 10, Hospice Cleveland County held their annual Lighting the Way Event in Uptown Shelby from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Luminaries lined the sidewalks under majestic trees on the Marion Street side of the Court Square. A light rain ended prior to the event, adding a shimmer from the Christmas lights nearby. Three Hundred twenty-five were remembered during the event.
• Former championship tennis coach Ed Guy returning to rebuild KMMS program.
• Kings Mountain Family YMCA has been very busy installing the new Hammer Strength & Life Fitness equipment and have updated to all new Cybex Eagle Series Selectorized Strength Series (pin select & plate loaded) equipment and added several new pieces of cardio equipment. In addition, the gym floor has been refinished, just in time for winter sports.
• Cormetech and Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry' distributed food and essentials to 400 area families during Feed the Children Day in Kings Mountain on December 18. Distribution took place in the Patrick Senior Center drive thru.
• KMFD gains ten Child Passenger Safety Seat Technicians after a training session on November 30.
• KMMS volleyball wins third straight Tri-County Conference championship.
• Mayor Scott Neisler names Martha Lou Wells the recipient of the Kings Mountain Community Spirit Award for 2021, as Councilman Miller stands to honor her. Photo by City of Kings Mountain.
• City council to review animal ordinance in January.

Screen shot 2022 01 05 at 4.15.55 pm — RAY SCOTT

Ray Scott to perform
at the Legion January 7

Sons of the Legion at Kings Mountain American Legion Post 155 welcomes international recording artist Ray Scott on Friday, January 7 for an intimate acoustic music experience. The Dustin Cole Project will open the performance at 6:30 pm and Ray Scott takes the stage at 7:30 pm. Tickets are on sale now for $20 each, and capacity is limited.
To reserve your tickets, call 704-674-6353 or message the American Legion Post 155 directly on Facebook. Tickets are Cash Only and will be available for pick up at will call the night of the event. Doors open at 5:00 pm the night of the event.

KMLT auditions scheduled for upcoming comedy

Mark your calendars now for auditions for Kings Mountain Little Theater’s upcoming play, Deliver Us from Mama. Auditions are scheduled for Saturday, January 8 from 10:30am to 1pm, and Sunday, January 9 from 2pm to 5pm at Joy Performance Center at 202 S Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain.
Roles needed are six male roles and five female roles, 30 years old and up, and one male and one female role 16 and up. Auditions will involve reading from portions of the script with other auditionees.
Performances are scheduled for March 4 & 5 @ 7:30pm, March 6 @ 3:00 pm, March 11 and 12 at 7:30pm, and March 13 at 3:00pm.
Mama’s back - so chaos can’t be far behind! This rip-roaring, hilarious, high-octane race to beat the stork begins when Walker Sprunt's wife, Hayley, goes into labor with their first child. The problem? She's in Alabama, and he is in L.A., trying his best to get through a surprise visit from his meddling mother and his bossy big sister, Savannah, when he gets the call.
Unfortunately, an air traffic controllers strike has just begun across the nation and Walker is at a loss for what to do. But his Mama, as usual, is not. And when she proclaims, "Family Road Trip!', Walker, from experience, knows disaster can't be far behind. And is he ever right - as the clock ticks, Mama and her squabbling offspring jump in a car and sprint across two thousand miles of America and through its most unbelievably eccentric and colorful communities, and comedic chaos follows them everywhere.
Despite experiencing zany alien encounters near Roswell, New Mexico, witnessing an uproarious last-minute wedding with off-their-rockers relatives, participating unwillingly in a high-speed police chase across Texas, surviving a churning river on a Daiquiri party barge, and even escaping a wild New Orleans' Mardi Gras night court, this exuberantly desperate trio drive on, determined to make it to Alabama before the new baby is born. And heaven help anyone who gets in Mama's way, because she WILL be in Birmingham in time for the birth of her first grandchild! This flat-out-funny Jones Hope Wooten comedy will get your motors racing as it delivers miles of smiles and loads of laughs!

Screen shot 2022 01 05 at 4.13.51 pm — KM Historical Museum Toys, Games and Trains exhibit ends Friday, January 7.

Last week to see the Toys, Games, and Trains exhibit

By Loretta Cozart

January 7 is the last day to see the Toys, Games, and Trains exhibit at Kings Mountain Historical Museum. If you haven’t seen it this year, or want one last look, be sure to visit KMHM by Friday. This annual exhibit fills the museum with a model train display assembled by local “S” Gaugers, as well as railroad memorabilia, and antique toys and games.
Visitors of all ages will be enchanted as they explore the miniature scenes that line the tracks. Parents and grandparents will enjoy reminiscing about the toys and games of their childhood. Admission is free.

Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott
at Joy Performance Center January 17

To honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mauney Memorial Library, and the City of Kings Mountain welcome Mike Wiley to perform, Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott at the Joy Performance Center on January 17.
Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon all travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. But there were others who came before Mrs. Parks and laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Tired Souls introduces audiences to Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin, and others so instrumental in lighting a fire under the Civil Rights movement and changing the course of U.S. history forever.
Immediately after production, the audience is invited to take part in a talkback with Mike Wiley. No photos or videography will be allowed during production.
The event, scheduled to begin at 2:00 pm, is free and open to the public. The Joy Performance Center is located at 202 South Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain.

Screen shot 2022 01 05 at 4.12.21 pm — Playwright, director, and performer Mike Wiley will hold a question-and-answer session after the performance.

KM Herald headlines 2021 year in review

By Loretta Cozart

(Ed. Note: This is a two-part article looking back on 2021 and how the Kings Mountain Herald brought hometown, community news, and local issues to our readers. We at Community Media wish you a Happy New Year 2022!)

January
• Cleveland County’s 2021 property revaluation took effect on January 1. The revaluation included land and all residential, commercial, and industrial structures in Cleveland County. The revaluation did not include personal property. Not everyone's property value changed by the same percentage and could vary widely across properties.
• West School wins national recognition. Highly regarded for academic achievement, stakeholder involvement, creativity, and innovative programs, West Elementary earns top honors as a 2020-2021 ESEA Distinguished School. Additionally, West met or exceeded growth for the past five years, is a PBIS Exemplar School, and has been recognized as a Green Ribbon School. The selection committee noted the following as contributing factors and "fantastic" points from their findings.
• NC DHHS reported new COVID-19 records to start the year. On Jan. 1, North Carolina reported its highest one-day number of COVID-19 cases with 9,527 new cases reported, exceeding the state’s previous highest day set on Dec. 18, 2020, by more than 1,000.
• On Saturday, January 9, Kings Mountain Ministerial Association held a community prayer rally in Patriots Park to pray for first responders in the community.
• On January 16, JACK & georgia held a grand opening at 209 S. Battleground Avenue after the retailer relocated from their original location on E. Gold Street.
• Legion Riders held a ride for Cpl. Lee Whittington of Kings Mountain Police Department. Corporal Whittington was shot in the line of duty while responding to a call on Downing Drive. He underwent surgery and was released before Christmas.
• A community meeting was held by Let’s Roll Holdings regarding their proposed development, Catawba Ridge to be located at 415 Dixon School Road. Developers Wallace Cheves and partner Paul Sparks presented their plan with approximately 15 people in attendance.
• Paul James Candle Company held a soft opening for the new business at 807 Cleveland Avenue.
• The old gas station at 259 Dixon School Road was demolished in January. The property, once owned by the Plonk family, had been the site of a Sinclair Gas station, a BP station, American Petroleum station, and a FINA station before it was purchased by Roadside Truck Plaza in November of 1997.
• Tens of thousands of residents in rural North Carolina gained access to the COVID-19 vaccine close to home as three more Atrium Health facilities began offering the vaccine to members of the public: Atrium Health Cabarrus, Atrium Health Lincoln, and Atrium Health Union as part of Atrium Health’s plan to offer mass vaccinations to people across the region in multiple, convenient locations.
• Pinnacle Classical Academy’s 4th-grade teacher, April Bridges, was named an Extraordinary Educator by Curriculum Associates, a leading education partner serving more than 10 million teachers and students in 50 states.
February
• Students, pre-K through first grade, returned to classroom learning on Feb. 22. School board members voted six to three to begin returning elementary students back to the classroom during their January 25 meeting.
• During the City of Kings Mountain’s meeting on January 26, city council approved the zoning change from R-20 to CD- PUD of approximately 82.73 acres of the 118 total purchased by Let’s Roll Holdings LLC for S1.77M in 2020.
• Shirley Brutko reported that a lot was accomplished at the Gateway Trail by volunteers of the trail committee and Ranger Cliff Laurich. New mulch was spread near the overflow parking lot, and pine straw was removed from Cardio Hill to the trailhead.
• Emma Kay Lewis made a beautiful barn quilt square of Kings Mountain and the trail, as a gift to the Gateway Trail. It was proudly displayed at the trailhead.
• Kings Mountain sports lost one of its best athletes and coaches in February with the passing of Brent Bagwell. Bagwell was an all-star athlete in football, basketball, and baseball for the Mountaineers, went on to an outstanding playing and coaching career in college and in recent years was a valuable assistant in the KMHS football program.
• North Carolina opened COVID-19 vaccines to everyone ages 65 and older. According to state guidelines, frontline essential workers were next. Atrium Health offered to help people know when it was their turn by using their online COVID-19 Prescreen tool.
• The National Park Service announced that Diana Bramble had been selected at the new superintendent of Kings Mountain National Military Park and would take the reigns on March 14.
• Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office announced it was revitalizing the Neighborhood Watch Program throughout the county.
March:
• City Council unanimously approved a budget amendment in the amount of $1.5M for the Phase II Streetscape project.
• Mountain Street Pharmacy and Shelly Drugstore, working in conjunction with the Cleveland Coaly Public Health Center, hosted a COVID-19 vaccine clinic on March 5 at Cleveland Community College.
• Kings Mountain Little Theater presented ‘Til Beth Us Do Part’ at the Joy Performance Center.
• Kings Mountain High School football team defeated Stuart Cramer during their delayed season due to COVID-19. Kings Mountain sophomore Caleb Holland made a varsity debut when he returned the opening kickoff of the 2021 spring season 90 yards for a touchdown to spark a 43-7 win over Stuart Cramer.
• Kings Mountain High School Interact Club, an offshoot of KM Rotary Club, did a service-learning project-performing a trash pickup around the school properties and on Kings Mountain Boulevard.
• Mountain Street Pharmacy and Shelby Drugstore, working in conjunction with the Cleveland County Public Health Center, hosted a COVID-19 Vaccine clinic on Friday, March 12 at Central United Methodist Church.
• Kings Mountain Police Department Officers Breanna Joel and K-9 Officer Chris Graham responded to the service call of two dogs in the median of I-18. Officer Joel and an unidentified good Samaritan worked together to catch and hold the dogs until Officer Graham arrived to provide the K9 leashes.
• Dr. George Plonk, born on March 17, 1919, celebrated his 102nd birthday.
• Sidney Brown of Kings Mountain could not believe it when he won the lottery at a convenience store in town. “I’ve just been crying and thanking God.” he said. “I’m truly blessed and it’s still not real to me.” He claimed his prize at lottery headquarters in Raleigh. After required federal and state tax withholdings, he took home $70,757.
• City of Kings Mountain it would implement NorthStar Utility Solutions billing software to better serve then customers beginning on March 29.
• Crow's Nest at Kings Mountain County Club opens to the public this week with a soft opening starting this Wednesday, St. Patrick's Day. In January, M.K. Arrowood Holdings. Inc. took over the food services for the club, including the restaurant and bar, as well as the pro-shop concessions.
• NC State House unanimously approved legislation to expand access to care for children with autism by reducing and streamlining unnecessary regulations. A similar bill in the NC Senate was unanimously approved.
April:
• Middle and high school students returned to in-school learning four days a week in Cleveland County on April 12. Two weeks later, a full-week schedule was resumed.
• The KMPD Call Center was dedicated in memory of Andrew Stuart (Andy) Underwood, Public Safety Answering Point Manager for the 911 Center for the City of Kings Mountain.
• Officer Penny Fulton Phillips retired from Kings Mountain Police Department after 25 years if service, most recently in Records.
• All adults, 16 and over, became eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday, April 7 in an announcement from Governor Roy Cooper.
• Kings Mountain Historical Museum officially began the renovation of the George Washington Cornwell House in March. The house is now at the museum but had been at 106 E. King Street near McGill’s Exxon Station.
• City of Kings Mountain cut down trees along Battleground Avenue downtown in preparation for the Streetscape project to continue.
• Kings Mountain High School’s football team beat Crest for the Big South Crown and finished the season undefeated for the first time since 1964.
• City of Kings Mountain announces an awning grant for businesses in the downtown district for businesses and property owners.
• US District Judge James E. Boasberg ruled in favor of the Catawba Indian Nation and determined that the taking land into trust for the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort was done so legally.
• It was announced that Jimmy Wayne would be honored by City of Kings Mountain, Tourism Development Authority, and Kings Mountain Little Theater with a mural by Scott Nurkin. Jimmy Wayne’s mural will be the 10th stop on the North Carolina Musician Murals Trail.
• Kings Mountain Auto Sales celebrated 28-years in business. Dan and Anita Smith started their business in 1993 and they give Jesus all the glory and acknowledge Him as reason for their success.
• Walking life’s journey together since April 21, 1951, Dwight and Joanne Tessneer celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last week in Kings Mountain.
• First Presbyterian Church received a new roof, replacing the last one that had served the church well for 100 years.
• Eight Mountaineer Football players were chosen for the All-Big South team: Defensive end Javarí Rice-Wilson was named Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight year, Blake Davis was selected the conference's Offensive Lineman of the Year, and Chris Ruffalo was selected as the co-Defensive Lineman of the Year. Teammates joining them on the All-Conference team were running back Rashaard Brooks, offensive lineman Tykel Smith, linebacker Dameon “DayDay” Wilson, defensive back Logan Patrick and linebacker AJ Richardson.
May:
• A height variance for Catawba Two Kings Casino was approved by city council, paving the way for a five-story parking garage. In addition, the R. Dean Harrell Company’s request for rezoning from R-10 to Conditional District R6 PUD for the Cannon 35 was unanimously approved.
• North Elementary School participated in the Kids’ Heart Challenge. The goal was set at $2,500. and the students raised S3,065.26.
• In April and May, trailers were delivered to the Catawba Two Kings Casino and Resort site. As of May 1, 20 trailers had been delivered and setup.
• Kings Mountain High School's Beta Club held their annual Induction and Cord Ceremony on April 29 at 6 pm in Barnes Auditorium. Four seniors, eight juniors, and 76 sophomores were inducted into the club. Forty-eight seniors received their cords for graduation. Principal Julie Rikard and club sponsor Janney Ann Croft welcomed everyone. Club president Jonah Patrick then spoke regarding the purpose and objectives of Beta Club.
• Eugene and Mary Curry celebrated 64 years of marriage on May 18. They married on May 18,1957 in York SC. The couple met at ages 8 and 9 and married at 18 and 19 years of age. They have 7 children: Jackie Brown, Denise Mercer, Pastor Daris Curry, Apostle Kenneth Curry, Apostle Bryan Curry, Michael F. Curry and Shannon Roberts.
• Walls went up at the new Benestar Brands facility on Industrial Drive in Kings Mountain. Benestar Brands is an international snack foods manufacturer and will create 129 jobs in town.
• More than 1,000 people turned out for the Catawba Two Kings Casino job fair held at Cleveland Community College’s LeGrand Center. Two hundred positions were filled over the two-day event.
• Dameon “DayDay” Wilson of Grover is one of a very few people to start all four years of his high school career and is the only one to establish the school record for most games played. For his brilliant career, Coach Greg Lloyd presented him The Career Achievement Award and his framed #10 jersey at the annual football awards ceremony Monday at Barnes Auditorium.
• Kings Mountain Middle School’s girls won the Tri-County Conference crown and scored four runs in the seventh inning to erase 3-2 deficit and defeat Crest 6-3.
• Kings Mountain High School graduates 264 students
June:
• Col. Frederick Hambright DAR Chapter installed new officers with Robin Masters Meyer named the Regent.
• GFWC-NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club installed new officers: Denise Cobb - President, Bendetra McDowell - First Vice President, Betty Sue Morris - Second Vice President, Julienne Hambright - Secretary, Doris McGinnis - Treasurer, Johann Sherrill - Chaplain, and Anne Gamble -Immediate Past President.
• Mauney Memorial Library, in collaboration with The Gateway Trail, presented Storywalk® beginning Wednesday June 16. Stories along the trail were changed out weekly throughout the summer.
• County Commissioners approve 3.25 cent tax cut as part of 2021-2022 fiscal year budget. The tax rate changes included a 2.25 cent decrease in the county’s General Tax rate and a one cent decrease in the county’s School Tax rate.
• William Donald (Don) Crawford received his 80- year gold pin for his service to the Piedmont Council and the Battleground District of Boy Scouts of America.
• City Manager Marilyn Sellers announced “The City of Kings Mountain is very proud to announce that the water transmission loop system project is complete. The inspections have been performed, valves turned on, and water is flowing as I speak. This is a monumental accomplishment that has been a 40 to 50-year goal of past management, water directors and consultants.”
• It was announced that Will Wilson, KMHS’s highest-ever draft pick, is to be inducted into KM Snorts Hall of Fame.
• Representatives from Delaware North held a media sneak-peek for Catawba Two Kings Casino. The prelaunch facility was constructed from 23 modular units placed side by side to form one large room of about 14,700 square feet. Catawba Two Kings Casino opened July 1.

First responders attend the prayer rally

Veterans Day Parade and Observance November 11

Road closures near Patriots Park

City of Kings Mountain is proud to host its annual Veterans Day Parade and Observance, Thursday, November 11.
Beginning at 10:30 am, this special event will begin at the Joy Theatre with a parade to Patriots Park being led by the KMPD Color Guard. A service, which will feature a five-minute presentation entitled “Recognition of Service”, music by Dale Brittain and the Loch Norman Pipe Band, and a keynote address by Mr. Jason Falls, will then be held at the Liberty
Falls Amphitheatre followed by a wreath ceremony at the War Memorial located in Patriots Park.
“The Veterans Day Observance is a very special event in our city,” states Scott Neisler, Mayor of Kings Mountain. “It’s a time to acknowledge those who put their lives on hold to defend our country! We owe them a debt of gratitude for sacrificing their lives for our freedom.”
The City of Kings Mountain encourages everyone to support our veterans by attending the observance.
To host this event, a portion of South Railroad Avenue and West Gold Street will be closed beginning at 9 am and remain closed or barricaded until 11 am. Use extreme caution when traveling on Railroad Avenue and West Gold Street due to the increase in motor vehicles and pedestrians walking. Plan to travel different roads if you are impacted by this change. The city thanks you for your cooperation in this matter.
For more information or to participate in the parade, contact the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www.KingsMountainEvents.com.

Murphey's 27th
Annual Toy Run

Murphey's 27th annual toy run to benefit Shriner's Burn Center, Oxford Orphanage Masonic Home for Children, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office and Kings Mountain Police Department is set for Saturday, November 20. Rain date is Sunday, November 21.
Motorcyclists will assemble at 11 am and leave the Scooter Shed on 114 Camelot Court, off Phifer Road in Kings Mountain at 12 pm (noon) with a police escort. Each rider or person is to bring a new toy and $5.00. After the ride is completed, free barbecue will be served at Murphey’s Scooter Shed.
The toy run route will start at Camelot Court, turn right onto Phifer Road (Kings Mountain Rescue), right onto Bethlehem Road (Bethlehem Fire Dept.), left onto Hwy 74 west bound (Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Patrol), Intersection of Hwy. 74 @ Long Branch Rd. (Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Patrol), right onto Marion Street (Shelby PD), right onto Borders Road, (Shelby PD), right onto Oak Grove Road (Oak Grove Fire Dept.), right onto Stony Point Road (Oak Grove Fire Dept), straight on Stony Point Road which turns into Shelby Rd., then turn into Kings Street. Any major intersection from Ingles on Shelby Road to Hardees @ Kings St. (this has been bottle neck, in the past). Turn right onto York Road (KM PD or KM Fire Dept.), turn right onto East Gold Street (KM PD or KM Fire Dept.), left onto S. Battleground Ave. (KM PD or KM Fire Dept.), right onto Kings Mountain Boulevard, (Bethlehem FD), go through the round-a-bout and continue on Phifer Road (Bethlehem FD), and turn right onto Camelot Court.
All agencies will operate on events 1 on the radio. For more information please call Chris Hutchins 704-473-6767.

Screen shot 2021 11 10 at 4.34.03 pm — Col. Frederick Hambright Chapter Regent Robin Meyer presents a certificate to Anne Hord Gamble for her tireless work for children’s literacy in Kings Mountain. Photo provided

Gamble honored by DAR for work with children’s literacy

Anne Hord Gamble was honored by the Colonel Frederick Hambright Chapter, NSDAR, for her work with children’s literacy. Storytime with Miss Anne is a favorite among young readers at Mauney Memorial Library. During the pandemic, Storytime continued via Zoom meetings. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Storytime with Miss Anne is held at 10:30 a.m. And Bedtime Storytime is held the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. In-person Storytime is held on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. at Mauney Memorial Library.
Congratulating Gamble, Chapter DAR Literacy Chair Loretta Cozart said, “Anne, this acknowledgment is much deserved! You are a tireless advocate for literacy among our youngest readers. You have ‘Storytime with Miss Anne’ several times a week and even do a bedtime story once a month. Encouraging young readers early is the key to a lifetime of reading and learning.”

Screen shot 2021 11 10 at 4.34.32 pm — Chief Lisa Proctor and Terricia Wingo were honored during the 2021 Cleveland County Distinguished Women’s Banquet. Photo provided

KMPD Chief Proctor,
Terricia Wingo honored

By Loretta Cozart

Chief of Police Lisa Proctor, Terricia Wingo, and Carol Ann Hoard were honored at the 2021 Cleveland County Distinguished Women’s Banquet at the LeGrand Center in Shelby on November 4. Proctor and Wingo are from the Kings Mountain area. Carol Ann Hoard is a minister in Shelby.
Senator Ted Alexander was in attendance and spoke of these honorees saying, “Each of these women have excelled in their various civic endeavors making our county a better place to live and setting an example for others. Thanks to the Commission for Women for putting on a moving event honoring these recipients.”
The recipients were given certificates of appreciation from the NC Senate in recognition of their award from the commission.
Senator Alexander went on to share, “Each of these women, in their own way, gave God and Jesus Christ the honor and glory for their work and achievements. Chief Proctor: the first Woman chief of Police in Cleveland County who also has her own ministry; Carol Ann Hoard: her work as a youth minister and as the Christmas Tree lady; and Terricia Wingo for her selfless ministering of the gospel to the homeless and bereft in the community. Each of their stories were uplifting and further attest to how living out of one’s Christian faith always makes for a better community! Thanks to each of these women for their magnificent achievements!”

School board tables
Central School decision until January 10

At Cleveland County’s school board meeting on November 8, at 6 p.m., the board voted to table the decision on the sale of Central School for 60-days, until January 10. A closed session to discuss a personnel matter and two properties on the surplus list lasted about one-hour.
The property behind Grover School received a bid of $49,000 and the school board unanimously voted to accept that bid.
During the October 11 school board meeting, members voted to place Central School in Kings Mountain and a home behind Grover School on their surplus property list.
School policy is to afford the board of county commissioners the first opportunity to obtain any real property
at the fair market price or a
price negotiated between the two boards. County Commissioners met on October 19 and voted to decline the opportunity.
During the Public Participation portion of the meeting, Michael S. Smith of Gaston Street addressed the board regarding the sale of surplus property being offered for sale in Kings Mountain. “I own two properties across from Central School and do not feel the citizens have been given the proper opportunity to address what they would like to see happen with this property.”
“What’s the hurry?” he asked. “The school board has asked for 12-months to vacate this building that sits at the heart of the historic district. Citizens nearby should be given the opportunity to have input regarding what happens with Central School.”

Screen shot 2021 11 10 at 4.43.30 pm — Waterboys teamed up with Xylem Inc., Water Well Trust, and Talking Rain AQA to provide a local family with a new water well. Photo By Julie Dohearty

KM family receives
water well system

Chris Long, retired NFL player and Waterboys founder, teamed up with Xylem Inc., Water Well Trust and Talking Rain AQA to provide clean, safe drinking water to a Kings Mountain.
The Blanchard family received a donated water well system, including equipment, well drilling and installation on Wednesday, November 3. The family’s water well had a hole in the casing, causing their water to be brown and rusty. They relied on bottled water for drinking.
The donation is the seventh joint Hometown H2O project for The Chris Long Foundation, Xylem, and the Water Well Trust. Hometown H2O is a domestic water program dedicated to bringing clean, sustainable water to people and communities in need across the
United States. Hometown H2O – a program launched in early 2020 – is a united effort between Chris Long and his Foundation’s Waterboys initiative and water technology company Xylem Inc. to address domestic water scarcity issues, which currently leave more than 2 million Americans without access to clean water. Hometown H2O, Xylem and Talking Rain AQA work alongside the Water Well Trust, a national nonprofit that helps funds and supply water to low-income families.

Screen shot 2021 11 03 at 4.22.42 pm — At last year’s Veterans Day Observance, Vietnam Veteran Abraham Ruff recited “A Toast to the Flag,” written by John J. Daly in 1917. Photo by Angela Padgett

Registration is open
for Christmas Parade

Parade to be held
December 4 at 3 pm

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Registration is now open for the Kings Mountain “Home for Christmas” Parade scheduled for December 4th, 2021, at 3:00 pm in downtown Kings Mountain.
Want to participate? Participants may register online by accessing the “Home for Christmas” website at www.kingsmountainchristmas.com. For more information, or assistance with registration, please contact Angela Padgett, Special Events Coordinator at 704-730-2101 or via email at specialevents@cityofkm.com.
Over 100 entries are expected. More exciting information concerning this special parade will be available soon. Deadline to register for the parade is November 15, 2021.

Registration is open
for Christmas Parade

Fire at SASi’s Pottery Studio

On Monday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m., the Pottery Studio at Kings Mountain Art Center went up in flames. Pottery wheels and a kiln, along with other contents in the room, are now covered in water and soot. The extent of the damage is not currently known, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. The blaze in SASi’s Pottery Studio was reported around 7:30 p.m. Monday night by Jewel Reavis and a neighbor who spotted the flames.

Photo by Yola Lawson

Appalachian Gear Company awarded NC Building Reuse Grant

Governor Roy Cooper announced 22 grant recipients through the North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority on Oct. 21. Appalachian Gear Company and the City of Kings Mountain were chosen as a grant recipient this year.
This $50,000 grant will support the reuse of a 10,000-square-foot building, where Appalachian Gear Company, LLC, plans to expand its current manufacturing operations to a second facility. The company, a cut-and-sew operation specializing in alpaca fiber garments, plans to create 12 jobs, and invest $486,000 in this project.
“I am delighted that Kings Mountain will be receiving one of the rural infrastructure authority grants from the state. The important and much-needed grant will continue the positive trajectory that this region is enjoying,” said Senator Ted Alexander.
Appalachian Gear Company announced its relocation to a new manufacturing facility in April 2021 and has seen such tremendous growth that the company is expanding to a second facility. This second facility will be located in downtown Kings Mountain, which will enable AGC to do its own garment and research and development in-house.
“Textiles has always been the fabric of our society. It’s in our blood!" said Kings Mountain Mayor Scott Neisler. "So, it is gratifying to see that Appalachian Gear has found a niche in the ever changing textile climate. We welcome them to Kings Mountain and hope it will result in them being very successful.”
Appalachian Gear Company's founders John Gage and Mike Hawkins aren't new to Kings Mountain. They designed, built, and ran a textile dyeing and finishing operation from 1991-2002, and are excited to come back home and grow their business.
"Appalachian Gear Company is so excited to once again be a part of the Kings Mountain and Cleveland County Community, a community in which we have a long history. It is so important for city and county governments to support small manufacturing companies, especially in the current economic times. We are so appreciative that Kings Mountain, Cleveland County, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina have such an accomplished and energetic team that was absolutely the spark plug for Appalachian Gear Company’s expansion," commented John Gage, Appalachian Gear Company.
"The Building Reuse Grant is a cornerstone in our effort to not only bring Award-Winning Apparel Manufacturing back to the U.S., but also to become one of the only vertically integrated Outdoor Lifestyle Brands in the U.S. that starts with a raw material, produces a fabric with our patent pending process, and then produces the finished garments and Outdoor Gear that we sell directly to consumers," he said.
Appalachian Gear Company is an outdoor lifestyle company specializing in American-made performance apparel and gear. They combine 100 years in the textile industry and have won consecutive editor’s choice awards from Backpacker Magazine for their All-Paca Fleece Hoodie, made from 100% Alpaca Wool.
“Although Kings Mountain-Cleveland County, NC just recently became home to Appalachian Gear Company, we are thrilled to hear that the company is already proceeding with an expansion of their local operations," said NC House Speaker Tim Moore. "The ongoing growth of the company has spurred innovation and new job growth in our community, and we are grateful to them for their continued investment.”
“Cleveland County is proud to be home to Appalachian Gear Company and congratulates them on their second facility in Kings Mountain. Not only does this company provide award winning products, but high-quality jobs for our citizens. We thank them for choosing to continue to invest in our community,” added Johnny Hutchins, Economic Development Liaison for the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners.

Catawba Two Kings Casino Pre-Launch Facility expansion

Work on the Catawba Two Kings Casino Pre-Launch Facility expansion is progressing on schedule toward the targeted opening in December, according to representatives from Delaware North.

(Photo by Loretta Cozart)

Screen shot 2021 11 03 at 4.22.50 pm — This 11.2 pounds of methamphetamine has a street value of $176,000. Photo by CCSO

KM traffic stop finds $176,000 in methamphetamines

On October 22, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Community Interdiction Team along with their K-9, Karma, conducted a vehicle stop in Kings Mountain. During the investigation deputies located approximately 5 kilograms (11.2 pounds) of methamphetamine in the vehicle.
Both occupants, Luviana Ramirez Moreno. 42, and Jonathan Lugo Valdez 39 of Grayson, Georgia, were charged with two counts of Trafficking Methamphetamine and transported to the Cleveland County Detention Center for processing.
The street value of the seized drugs was approximately $176,000. During the month of October 2021, the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, which includes the Community Interdiction Team has seized 37 pounds of methamphetamine with a total street value of approximately $600,000.
The Sheriff’s Office takes complaints of drug trafficking and drug sales in Cleveland County very seriously. Sheriff Norman requests that anyone with information on drug dealers in their neighborhood contact the Vice/Narcotics Division at 704-484-4987.

City transitions to OpenGov November 1

By Loretta Cozart

   During the October 26 Kings Mountain City Council meeting, Director of Community & Economic Development Stuart Gilbert reported that Kings Mountain would transition to OpenGov digital software system on November 1.
   In a recent press release, OpenGov shared, “The City of Kings Mountain has partnered with OpenGov – the leader in cloud software for government budgeting, community development and financial management – to drive efficiency for staff and improve the quality and convenience of services for community members.
   The City of Kings Mountain joins over a thousand public sector organizations leveraging OpenGov to revolutionize work processes with cloud-based software designed specifically for the needs of government. OpenGov will serve the City of Kings Mountain with software that automates permitting approval processes, allows for online inspections and code enforcement management, and provides a user-friendly online portal for applicants.
   OpenGov describes their services stating, “OpenGov is the leader in modern cloud ERP software for our nation’s cities, counties and state agencies. On a mission to power more effective and accountable government, OpenGov serves more than 1,000 agencies across the U.S. Built exclusively for the unique budgeting, financial management and citizen services needs of the public sector, the OpenGov ERP Cloud makes organizations more collaborative, digitizes mission-critical processes and enables best-in-class communication with stakeholders.” Internally, city staff had already begun the transition.”
One area of primary interest to the public is permitting and licensing. OpenGov Citizen Services gives city staff the ability to manage all permitting and licensing operations through an online platform. Building permits, planning, zoning, code enforcement, fire and safety, business licenses, and many other tasks can be handled online, including online payment. The software allows citizens to track the progress of submissions themselves through a customer service portal OpenGov describe the platform saying, “Streamlined multi-department workflows mirrors the exact process for permitting and licensing approvals, with a visual progress meter that records all post-submission activity. Each submission flows electronically from intake through departmental reviews, automatically assigning steps to the next available employee, shrinking average approval times.”
   OpenGov Director Eric DiProspero shared, “We are thrilled to add the City of Kings Mountain to our growing list of government partners and look forward to helping them usher in a new era of technology and innovation to address their challenges. The City of Kings Mountain’s commitment to modernizing services and improving efficiency is apparent, and we are excited to help them deliver for both residents and employees.”

November 2 Municipal Election details

The voter registration deadline for the Nov 2, Municipal Election was October 8. If you missed the deadline, you will be allowed to same-day register and vote during Early Voting.
Deadline to request an absentee ballot for the November 2, Municipal Election was Tuesday, October 26.
For this election, there will be only one voting location at Cleveland County Board of Elections Office at 215 Patton Dr., Shelby, NC 28150. Early voting ends October 30.
The last day to apply for an absentee ballot for voters who expect to be unable to vote on Election Day due to sickness or physical disability is November 1.
Deadline for receipt of mail-out absentee ballots is November 2. Mail-out absentee ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 2 and received no later than November 5 at 5 pm.
Election results will be made available on Election night on the NC State Board of Elections website:
https://er.ncsbe.gov/?election_dt
City of Kings Mountain’s municipal elections were postponed to March 8, 2022, during the Primary Election, due to information related to 2020 U.S. Census results that impact Ward lines being received late.

November 2 Municipal Election

Three Polling Places Moved

GWU Fall 2021 Career & Internship Fair

Looking for an intern? Start your talent search with Gardner-Webb University at their Fall Internship Fair on October 27 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Tucker Student Center. If you’re looking for interns for fall, spring, or summer, this is your chance to recruit in-person on the Gardner-Webb University campus.
Participants will be provided one table and two chairs, and the event is free. All organizations are responsible for tablecloths and display items. Lunch is provided. Contact GWU with any questions at career@gardner-webb.edu.

Halloween Movie Nights Thursday and Friday

City of Kings Mountain’s Pumpkin Palooza at Patriots Park wraps up this week with two events scheduled on Thursday, Oct. 28 and Friday, October 29.
Thursday’s movie is Hocus Pocus. This Walt Disney Pictures film features Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy and shares the story of a curious youngster moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.
At 6:00 p.m., meet live, interactive characters from the movie, along with some other spooky friends! There’s free trick-or-treating and fun in store, too. The movie starts at 7:00 p.m. on the big screen at Liberty Falls Amphitheater in Patriots Park.
Friday’s Bonus Feature is the iconic classic, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown with a special showtime at 5pm.
One ticket reserves a pod for up to 10 people. A limited number of pods are available for each night. These free tickets must be reserved to control crowd size and safety.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
• Tickets must be redeemed to view each movie
• Patrons of up to 10 per family will be assigned a 10ft area to view each movie
• Patrons must stay in their own viewing areas
• Patrons are responsible for bringing a blanket or lawn chairs for the viewing area
• No outside food is allowed at this event. A concession vendor will be on hand to sell.
• Free parking is available throughout the downtown

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Don Crawford led
by example, impacted thousands in his lifetime

Hounds Campground
property sells for $40M

Woman’s Club
scholarship winner

Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott on February 18
at Joy Performance Center

W. Donald Crawford
dies at age 92

Search begins for top talent
for triumphant return of
“Liberty Mountain” drama

Catawba Two Kings Casino
donates $10,000 to
local nonprofits

Governor vetoes bill
to delay primary to June

Upset bid for
Central School reaches $909,665

Imperial Lofts opening
downtown this Spring

City declined purchase
of Central School;
current bid is $866,300

Upcoming 100th celebration
Library calls for
Hord Mansion items

Patriots roll
over Shelby

School Board accepts
$750,00 bid on Central School
upset bid process begins

Joy Performance Center February 18
Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott postponed

A sign of something new
to come

KM Herald headlines
2021 year in review (Part 2)

Ray Scott to perform
at the Legion January 7

Tired Souls: The Montgomery Bus Boycott
at Joy Performance Center January 17

Murphey's 27th
Annual Toy Run

KMPD Chief Proctor,
Terricia Wingo honored

School board tables
Central School decision until January 10

KM family receives
water well system

Registration is open
for Christmas Parade

Registration is open
for Christmas Parade