At approximately 4:48 p.m. on April 3, 2026, officers with the Kings Mountain Police Department responded to reports of shots fired at the Silver Express convenience store located at 506 E King Street in Kings Mountain.
Upon arrival, officers determined that the suspect had fled the scene prior to law enforcement arrival. Detectives with the Kings Mountain Police Department responded and initiated an investigation.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident began as a verbal altercation between Ahmad Leggett and the victim near Little Caesars. During the altercation, Leggett displayed a black handgun. Bystanders intervened, preventing further escalation at that time.
Leggett subsequently left the area, traveling through an alleyway toward the Silver Express gas station. Upon reaching the parking lot, Leggett again produced the firearm and discharged multiple rounds in the direction of the victim. At the time of the incident, the parking lot was heavily crowded and populated with numerous individuals, creating a significant risk of serious bodily injury to those present but no injuries were reported.
After making a positive identification, the following charges were secured on Ahmad Rashad Leggett Jr: Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Discharge Firearm into Occupied Property, Going Armed to the Terror of the Public, Discharging Firearm in the City Limits, and Damage to Property.
KMPD is actively searching for Leggett currently and is requesting that anyone with information on him or additional information about the incident contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers via the tip line at 704-481-8477, or by scanning the QR code.

By Alan Hodge

If you took the hotdogs that Wiener Works in Kings Mountain sells in just one year and laid them end to end, they would stretch from its location at 1009 Shelby Rd. to the city of Shelby. Now, multiply that times the 52 years Wiener Works been in business and the trail would reach to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.
Any way you measure it, that’s a lot of hot dogs and the reason for such stupendous sales is simple - good food, good service, good prices, and a hometown spirit to boot.
According to Wiener Works manager and owner Jason
Jarvis, the business goes back to the mid-1970s when his
father Bill and mother Debbie opened a Wiener King franchise in Kings Mountain.
“He was a district manager for McDonalds and wanted his own business,” Jason says. “But Wiener King went bankrupt and the place became Wiener Works in 1974. We are still a Wiener Works franchise but an independent one.”
Debbie passed away in 2020, but Bill worked until he retired just three years ago at age 76.
“He worked 13-hours days,” said Jason.
Joining Jason, who started working at the restaurant at age 13, in keeping the place running these days are his brother Greg and sister Jackie.
“I’ve been here 30 years,” he says. “It’s challenging but I’ve been blessed.”
Wiener Works has an eclectic and plentiful customer base. A recent morning saw the place open at its usual 10am start time, and by 11am a steady stream of folks was coming through the doors.
“In addition to our Kings Mountain customers we have people come from as far away as Charlotte and South Carolina,” Jarvis says. “Some of them order a bunch of footlongs and take them out.”
The age range of customers is wide as well. Last Tuesday, eight-year-old Kyra Wilson and her grandmother stopped in for lunch.
“I really like eating here,” Kayla said. “The French fries are my favorite.”
Jarvis pointed out an interesting demographic fact.
“Some of our customers came here as children now they bring their own kids in.” he said.
Friday night football games at Kings Mountain High School really brings in a crowd.
“It’s one of our busiest times,” he said.
There are many factors in the Wiener Works success story - starting with the bill of fare.
A look at the menu reveals hot dogs done in a variety of fashions - including “The Works” with mustard, chili, onions, slaw and cheese, chili dogs, kraut dogs, corn dogs, burgers in a variety of configurations, bbq sandwiches, chuck wagons, ham and cheese, chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches, fries, o rings, etc. etc. PS the wieners are high quality pork/beef blend items from Elm Hill.
What takes a lot of folks by surprise is the very reasonable prices for these eats. For instance, a Works dog is just two bucks, a basic burger just $1.85, small fries only $1.50 and small drink the same.
“We try to keep our prices low so everyone can afford it,” Jarvis said.
Wiener Works is also known for the friendly service from its staff of 15 employees.
“We have five full-time and nine part-time employees,” he said. “Most of our part-timers are student at Kings Mountain High or Pinnacle Academy.”
Jarvis is looking forward to further Wiener Works success.
“We are trying to buy the building and property,” he says. “We want to modernize the restaurant and pave the parking lot.”
But according to Jarvis some things will never change.
“We will always try to have fast service, good prices, and good food,” he says.
Kings Mountain Wiener works is open 10am-8pm Monday-Friday; 10am to 4pm Saturday. Currently payment is cash only.

 

 By Allyson Parker  

Jackson Cloninger, a resident of Kings Mountain  helped to organize a "clean up event" at Lake One (aka the Old City Lake) on Lake Rd. in Kings Mountain on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
 He, along with citizen volunteers who joined in the community effort, dedicated several hours of their time to pick up trash, tires, drug paraphernalia, and various other pollutants left behind by others.
Jackson said, “I was driven to clean up the old city water lake because I’ve spent years fishing there and have so many amazing memories kayaking with friends and catching fish—occasionally big ones.”
 He acknowledges the hard work of everyone involved but also feels that these types of events can be productive as well as enjoyable. "It was fun because everyone was in a good mood."
Residents of Kings Mountain have mentioned concerns at recent council meetings about trash, debris, and drug paraphernalia being a problem in several recreational areas and questioned whether the problem is linked to homeless individuals. Although Cloninger feels that homeless people do contribute to some of the problem, he believes the majority of the problem comes from repeat offenders who are not concerned with the environment around the lake.
 When asked what he felt could possibly help rectify the issue, he added, "I think the city would be well served by placing a few extra signs around prohibiting littering and illicit substances."
 Since the lake has become a more noticeable attraction in Kings Mountain, it has apparently become more polluted. By sponsoring events to keep the lake clean,  it not only means a more attractive lake, it means a safer lake which is free of hazardous material.
Jackson feels there are plenty of recreational facilities in the area for picnicking and grilling. Therefore, he is hopeful the lake will be preserved in its natural state.
While Jackson's regular profession is carpentry, in his free time, he is an avid fisher and hunter. He is an advocate of preserving wildlife and land on which wildlife is sustainable. He concluded by saying, "I think some areas are better off left undeveloped."
 There will be another event at the same location this Saturday, March 28 at Gantt Park on the corner of Gantt and Parrish and will begin at 9 am. Anyone who wishes to participate, is welcome.
It is important to note that water and some protective wear will be provided, but everyone is encouraged to bring essentials that will make them most comfortable.

The Kings Mountain Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying two individuals involved in a larceny at
Imperial Mercantile.
On February 28, 2026, at approximately 2:20 p.m., a white male and a white female entered the business. After walking around for a period of time, the male and female left walking towards S. Battleground Ave.
It was later discovered that the male exited the store carrying a $60 hat and two pairs of $70 jeans without paying for them. The male appears to have a tattoo on his left inner arm.
If you recognize either of these individuals or have any information about this incident, please contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444, ask for Detective Walker, and reference case #KM2026-00417.
They appreciate any assistance from the public.

 

The March 2026 primary election in Cleveland County delivered a night of political shifts and surprising upsets, even as local officials expressed concern over historically low participation at the polls.
Clifton Philbeck, Director of the Cleveland County Board of Elections, reported that while the voting process “went smooth” across the county’s precincts, the turnout was “one of the lowest” he could recall for a major primary cycle.
Despite the quiet atmosphere at polling sites, the results spoke loudly, particularly in the race for North Carolina House District 110. In a significant upset, newcomer Caroline Eason unseated 15-year incumbent Kelly Hastings. Eason secured the Republican nomination with 53.7% of the total vote, bolstered by a strong showing in neighboring Gaston County. She will move on to face Democrat Mary Silver in November.

Local Primary
Results at a Glance

NC House Dist. 110
Caroline Eason 53.7%

County Commissioner
Wayne King 25.9%

County Commissioner
Doug Bridges 16.5%

School Board (1st)
Danny Blanton 17.1%

School Board (2nd)
Ronnie Grigg 15.0%

School Board (3rd)
Robert Queen 12.8%

School Board (4th)
Aaron Bridges 11.9%

School Board & Commissioners
The Republican primary for the Cleveland County Board of Education saw three incumbents and one former member qualify for the general election. Danny Blanton maintained his status as a top vote-getter with 17.1%, followed by Ronnie Grigg and Robert Queen.
However, the fourth and final advancing spot remains in question. Incumbent Aaron Bridges leads challenger Shelia Canipe by a razor-thin 0.2% margin. Under North Carolina law, Canipe is eligible to request a formal recount, as the difference is well below the 1% threshold.
In the race for County Commissioner, newcomer Wayne King led the Republican field with 25.9% of the vote. Running on a “No New Taxes” platform, King will join incumbent Doug Bridges on the November ballot.
Looking Ahead
to November
The Democratic field, which saw fewer contested primary races, is now set. The Republican winners will face a Democratic slate that includes Phillip Glover, Dena Green, and Coleman Hunt for the school board, while Stormy Mongiello and David Peace will vie for the commissioner seats.
The general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.

 With one of soul music’s most iconic group names, Chairmen of the Board continues to delight audiences with their signature blend of the Motown soul, rich vocal harmonies, and infectious R&B rhythms.
They will perform at Clover School District Auditorium on Thursday, March 5, at 7:00pm.  Tickets are available at the door.
Chairmen of the Board  burst onto the scene in the early 1970’s with the timeless hit Give Me Just A Little More Time, featuring the charismatic and emotionally powerful vocals of lead singer General Johnson.
After Johnson’s passing in 2010, longtime member Ken Knox,  now with the group for over 49 years,  stepped up to carry the torch.  Alongside Thomas Hunter, Patrick McGuire, and their six-member backing band, The Executives, the group continues to honor Johnson’s legacy.
As musical trends evolve, The Chairmen of the Board remains a constant, delivering heartfelt and soulful songs that have defined beach music for generations.
For more information about this event call the auditorium at 803 222 8018 or visit our web page at www.clover.k12.sc.us/csda.

Springs Camp –
Strengthening Access Through Regional Growth and Legacy Partnership

Crowders Camps, a non-profit, non-denominational Christian camp ministry dedicated to “igniting sparks of hope in this generation now and beyond,” proudly announces the official opening of Crowders Springs Camp, its second major campus designed to serve more children, students, families, and church groups across Gaston County and the greater Charlotte region.
Located in Kings Mountain, NC, Crowders Springs represents a major milestone in the organization’s continued mission to create environments where young people grow spiritually, relationally, and personally through unforgettable camp experiences.
Strategic Expansion to Serve More Kids
Since its founding in 2014 at Crowders Ridge Camp, Crowders Camps has experienced steady growth, serving over 10,000 campers per year through summer camps, day camps, retreats, and leadership experiences. In recent years, increased demand resulted in waitlists and limited availability, revealing a clear need for expanded capacity.
Crowders Springs answers that need.
“This expansion is ultimately about access,” said Jay Oliver, Founder and Executive Director of
Crowders Camps. “We never want space limitations to become ministry limitations. Crowders Springs allows us to say ‘yes’ to more families, more churches, and more children who need the life-changing impact of camp.”
The new campus provides expanded space for recreation, worship gatherings, small groups, overnight experiences, and year-round retreats, complementing the programming and culture established at Crowders Ridge.
A Growing Camp Family: Legacy
Partnership
Extends Reach
Alongside the opening of Crowders Springs, Crowders Camps also celebrates a significant step forward in regional ministry impact through a Legacy Partnership with South Mountain Christian Camp in Bostic, North Carolina.
This partnership unites two ministries with shared values and complementary strengths, preserving the historic legacy of South Mountain Christian Camp while strengthening its future through operational support, programming expansion, and increased scholarship accessibility. “South Mountain Christian Camp carries decades of ministry history,” Oliver said. “This partnership is about honoring that legacy while ensuring it continues to serve future generations. Together, we are building something stronger than any single campus could accomplish alone.”
With three active properties — Crowders Ridge, Crowders Springs, and South Mountain Christian Camp — Crowders Camps is positioned to serve a broader geographic region, accommodate growing program demand, and expand scholarship opportunities for families facing financial barriers.
Mission at the Center
At its core, Crowders Camps remains focused on creating environments where children and students experience belonging, build confidence, develop relationships, and encounter the love of Christ.
Programs across all campuses include summer camps, day camps, student camps, retreats, leadership development experiences, and community events — all designed to foster faith, resilience, and connection.
“Our mission has never changed,” Oliver added. “We exist to ignite sparks” to serve kids, support families, strengthen churches, and create spaces where lives are genuinely transformed.”

Kings Mountain Forward, with Kings Mountain Little Theater, is pleased to announce this month’s Second Saturday Movie, How to Train Your Dragon (Live Action), sponsored by Gutter Guys, Inc., on March 14 at 10:30 a.m.
Families are invited to gather at the historic Joy Theatre, 202 S. Railroad Avenue in downtown Kings Mountain, for a fun, welcoming experience to see movies on the big screen. This family-focused initiative runs on the second Saturday of each month through June.
Each month, a beloved family-friendly movie will be available for free to everyone. To make the experience even sweeter, each attendee will receive free admission, a small popcorn, and a drink. So, bring your family and friends out for a great time at the Joy Theatre in downtown Kings Mountain!
Presenting sponsors for the series include 133 West, Coldwell Banker Mountain View Real Estate, Align Chiropractic, Gutter Guys, Inc., and Farm Bureau Insurance - Heather Siak.
Supporting sponsorships include Social House by Royal T, Harris Funeral Home, Inc., Ronald's Garage, Mountaineer Motors, Bridges Hardware, Cindy Souza Real Estate, Foothills Iron Works, Darrell L. Keller, CPA, PA, The Imperial Mercantile, Ingram’s Barber Shop, Bank OZK, Foothills Historic Preservation, Kings Mountain Family Dentistry, Dellinger's Jewel Shop, Inc., Community Bank, Jolly Realty, C & C Heating, Cooling and Insulation, LLC, Hometown Hardware, ScissorSmith & Co. Salon, Edward Jones - Jack Buchanan, Southern Arts Society, Inc., 133 West, Coldwell Banker Mountain View Real Estate, CRAVE Hot Dogs & BBQ, Trackview Hall, Kings Mountain RV Resort, Align Chiropractic, Gutter Guys, Inc., and Farm Bureau Insurance - Heather Siak.
Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to downtown revitalization and economic development in Kings Mountain, NC. All sponsors will receive a donation acknowledgment letter for tax purposes upon receipt of funds.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to get involved, please call 704-259-8960 or email director@kmforwardnc.org.

On February 19, 2026, Vice and Criminal Investigators with the Kings Mountain Police Department executed a search warrant at the commercial property known as “Ole Skool Hemp,” located at 243, 245, and 247 S.  Battleground Avenue in the downtown area of Kings Mountain.
The investigation began after officers received information regarding suspicious activity consistent with an illegal marijuana cultivation operation inside the business. Following additional investigation and surveillance, investigators established probable cause and obtained a search warrant.
During the execution of the search warrant, officers discovered an indoor marijuana grow operation within the business. The operation included cultivation equipment such as grow lights, irrigation systems, ventilation systems, and fertilizers.
Investigators located and seized the following evidence:
 Approximately [20] dried marijuana plants
• [167.91Lbs] of processed marijuana
• [.57Lbs] of marijuana by product
• Additional evidence related to the distribution of marijuana
While the grow operation itself was licensed and authorized under the USDA hemp program under North Carolina law, investigators determined that products processed and sold by the business had been altered, rendering them illegal under state law.
During the search, investigators also identified potential electrical and fire hazards associated with unauthorized modifications inside the building. The City of Kings Mountain Codes Division responded to the scene addressing these safety concerns.
As a result of the investigation, Dustin Ray Spake was charged with:
• Trafficking Marijuana
• Maintaining a Dwelling/Vehicle/Place for Controlled Substances
This investigation remains ongoing. Additional charges may be forthcoming.
The Kings Mountain Police Department remains committed to addressing illegal drug activity in our community and ensuring that businesses operating in our downtown district comply with state law. We appreciate the assistance of concerned citizens who report suspicious activity and keep our community safe.
Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers via the tip line at 704-481-8477, or by scanning the QR code below.
•• Additional evidence related to the distribution of marijuana


 

By Allison Parker

 The  Kings  Mountain  City  Council  held  a  regularly  scheduled  meeting  at  Council  Chambers  on  February  24,  2026  at  6  pm .
 Although  it  seemed  to  be  business  as  usual,  it  was  quite  the  opposite.  Prior  to  the  beginning  of  the  meeting,  council  and  guests  were  greeted  by  a  handful  of  protestors,  who,  to  say  the  least,  were  dissatisfied  with  the  overall  handling  of  water  quality,  taxes,  utility  costs,  and  lack  of  communication  regarding  said  items.
Although  most  of  the  protestors  did  not  want  to  be  named,  there  were  a  few  that  felt  communicating  was  essential  to  have  their  voices  heard,  and  also  addressed.
 Ann  Sprouse,  resident  of  Kings  Mountain,  said,  “I  am  physically  sick  from  the  water;  additionally,  I  have  recently  been  hospitalized  for  serious  kidney  issues  relating  to  the  water. I did  not  feel I   could  make  it  tonight  because  I  am  so  ill,  but  I  made  myself  so  that I can  let  the  council  know I   am  still  here  and  I  want  an  answer.  Last  time  I  went  before  the  council,  I  was  told  to  shut  up  and  sit  down.  Water  is  the  most  basic  need  and  it  should  be  clean.”
The  protesters  echoed  her  concern  as  well  as  other  concerns  such  as  the  cost  for  bottled  water,  high  utilities  and  tax  rates  which,  according  to  Sprouse,  the  council  is  aware  of,  acknowledges,  and  refuses  to  give  a  real  answer  or  remedy.
Once  a  quorum  was  accepted,  the  discontent  continued  with  Public  Comments  on  Ordinance  13  on  protesting  laws,  exorbitant  electric  costs,  water  quality,  and  overall  living  costs  for  elderly.
Jason  Cloninger,  of  Kings  Mountain,  issued  a  warning  to  the  Council  about  common  pitfalls  local  governments  make  when  adding  addendums  to  picketing  laws  which  may  extend  beyond  what  NC  State  laws  have  in  place.  Cloninger  cited  a  possible  violation  to  Amendment  One  of  the  Constitution  which  could  have  legal  ramifications  to  the  city  in  form  of  a  large  liability  loss  ‘in  the  millions.’
Josh  Lemoine,  Kings  Mountain resident,  posed  a  question  directly  for  council  members  to  consider,  “how  would  any  one  of  you  feel  about  paying  a  bill  that  doesn’t  even  give  the  cost  per  unit  or  a  way  to  actually  confirm  how  it  was  calculated?”  He  added  that  the  ‘Elephant  in  the  Room’  in  his  opinion  was  Duke  Power.”  He  requested  the  council  members  research  alternative  billing  matrix.
Jackie  Falls,  business  owner  and  resident,  directly  challenged  the  council  on  the  water  quality  and  inflated  utility  costs  by  asking  council  members  to  “please  define  your  legacy.”
 Tim  Saunders,  resident,  is  neither  a  new  comer  to  the  council  meetings  nor  is  his  concern  any  different  from  those  he  presented  at  various  meetings,  “the  very  people  who  have  been  life  long  residents,  paid  taxes,  and  made  this  town  what  is  today,  are  those  who  can  not  afford  their  rent  costs  and  utilities,  are  they  deliberately  being  forced  out  by  costs  so  that  Kings  Mountain  can  have  new  residents  with  the  $300,000  -  $400,000  homes,”  asked  Saunders.
The  last  person  to  address  the  council  directly  was  John  Heath  who  requested  an  extension   of  a 30-day  grace  period  to  repair  or  sell  his  father’s  house  which  is  scheduled  for  demolition  citing  his  father  is  fighting  mitigating  circumstances.
No  resolution  was  offered  to  any  of  the  citizens’  concerns;  however,  this  is  commonplace   during the  meetings  since  time  is  regulated.
 Financial  decisions
 On  the  financial  front,  the  council  reported  a  900,000  budget  surplus.
The  possibility  of  applying  overage  as  a  return  to  residents  was  one  persons’  idea.  The  whole  concept  behind  the  statement  was  to  see  this  be  used  towards  lower  utility  rates,  since  the  excess  would  create  approximately  a  $200  credit  to  each  household  account.
 A  motion  to  add  1.4  million  to  the  city’s  self  insured  fund  for  stop  loss  health  insurance  coverage.  Although  the  motion  passed,  the  $900,000  surplus  and  additional  funding  of   $500,000  would  be  needed  to  adequately  cover  the  amount  needed  to  the  health  care  fund  and  there  was  no  discussion  of  how  the  deficit  amount  would  be  collected.
 One  topic  residents  and  council  members  seemed  to  be  in  agreement  about  was  the  moratorium  on  a  proposed  Data  Center,  presented  by  planning  director,  Henry  Earl  Sanders.  The  moratorium  was  approved  for  the  future  Data  Center  in  Kings  Mountain  in  an  effort  to  balance  potential  Revenue  and  Public  Safety  as  well  as,  to  provide  sufficient  time  councilmembers  need  in  order  to  learn  more  about  the  environmental  safety  and  potential  income  created  by  large  data  centers.  Cleveland  County  currently  has  a  T5  data  center.
 Councilman  Neisler  noted  that  the  center  could  create  a  large  amount  of  revenue  for  citizens,  but  other  members  were  quick  to  respond  with  concerns  about  making  the  right  decision  in  lieu  of  a  hasty  decision. Council  woman  Thombs  added  to  the  discussion  by  saying,  “it  takes  time  to  answer  the  questions  raised  about  water  quality  and  the  effects  of  self-regulating,  small  nuclear  reactors  could  have  on  Kings  Mountain  residents,  adding  “Not  everything  with  a  dollar  sign  on  it  is  good”
 This  182  day  moratorium  will  not  apply  to  projects  that  have  already  secured  building  permits;  it  will  affect  projects  that  have  not  yet  been  approved.

 

Have you ever gone for a walk in the woods and come home with a pocket full of rocks? Whether you’ve built a collection over many years or you’re simply curious about what might be glittering in a creek bed, you’ll find plenty to discover at the Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show in Gastonia on March 14–15 at the Gastonia Farmers Market. The show will be open on Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Hosted by the Gaston Gem and Mineral Club, the annual event has become a wonderful family outing and one of the largest shows in the Piedmont. This year marks the club’s 47th show and its second year at its larger indoor home, the Gastonia Farmers Market. The show will feature 25 vendors offering a wide variety of items, including rough rocks and gems, cut specimens, handmade jewelry, and more. Admission is free.
Visitors can roll up their sleeves and try sluicing or watch a geode being cracked open to reveal the crystals inside. New this year is an educational area designed for all ages, where guests can learn more about rocks, minerals, and gems. Visitors can also bring their own mystery rocks, and club members will do their best to help identify them.
The show is the main fundraiser for the Gaston Gem and Mineral Club. Founded in 1977, the club is a nonprofit organization created to foster interest in geology, gems, minerals and the lapidary arts. Today, it has approximately 125 members from Gaston and surrounding counties, and they have a wide range of interests. Some members specialize in topics such as fossils, luminescent minerals, or crystals. Others enjoy activities such as gem faceting, cabochon cutting, tumbling, and metalwork for finished jewelry.
“We have a welcoming and enthusiastic group of people at the Gaston Gem and Mineral Club,” says Eric Clymer, club president. “You can always find someone with similar rock-related interests who is willing to share their knowledge and experience.”
The club meets monthly at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. Meetings typically include a presentation on a gem or mineral topic, time to share personal finds, and planning for upcoming field trips.
There are plenty of adventures to plan. North Carolina is home to more than 300 different gems and minerals, and the club organizes field trips for almost every month of the year. Members travel to public and private sites across the Southeast in search of treasures, but most trips are within about a two-hour drive from the Gastonia area. “The field trips and events are opportunities for us to bond as a community of like-minded individuals, despite our diverse ages and life experiences,” said Clymer.
In recent years, field trips have yielded finds such as pink and red rubies in Marion, green emeralds around Hiddenite, deep red garnets in the mountains, and purple amethysts from several regional sites. The group has also found clear and white quartz crystals at sites in North and South Carolina, and they even go gold panning.
The goal of the club is to share knowledge, learn new things, and experience the thrill of discovery together. That’s why annual dues are kept affordable at $20 per family or $15 for individuals. The monthly meetings are free, and visitors are welcome.
Bring the family and join us at the Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show on March 14-15. Enjoy the activities, explore the vendor booths, and meet some of the club members. It’s a great opportunity to discover whether the Gaston Gem and Mineral Club is a good fit for you. Also, you can connect with us anytime online at gastongem.org, or on Facebook or Instagram.

By Alan Hodge

This past weekend’s winter storm failed to deliver much snow, but there was enough ice to make things interesting.
Weather forecasters started warning folks about the approaching storm late last week with predictions of wintry precipitation totals of several inches of sleet and over half an inch of ice. The predictions included possible widespread power outages and advice to stock up on rations, bottled water, blankets, lanterns, propane, kerosene, and all the usual stuff.
Weather maps showed the massive storm spread across the southeast, fed by large amounts of moisture from the Gulf region and arctic air from the Great Lakes- the classic Carolina wintertime catastrophe casserole.
Friday and Saturday saw food stores mobbed and stripped of water, bread, milk and other staples. Bags of de-ice pellets were snapped up as soon as they appeared. The gold standard- electrical generators- flew out of home improvement and hardware stores. The NCDOT and local governments brined, salted, and sanded roads and bridges.
The ice started falling late Saturday afternoon. Given the fact that the ground was dry and temperatures did not get out of the 20s, the ice stuck like glue and by dark the ground was white.
Everyone held their breath regarding the possibility of electrical outages. Duke Energy had rounded up over 10,000 linemen and equipment from places as far away as Canada in case lines came down from falling tree limbs or ice accumulation. Television weather broadcasters were in their element constantly showing radar maps with where the storm was hitting and how hard.
On Sunday the ice fell in fits and spurts. It was nowhere near as much as the storm of 2002 that paralyzed our region for a week. Late Sunday afternoon, around six o’clock, the show was over. Total accumulations were about an inch of sleet and half an inch of ice.
Monday dawned brightly sunny and cold, but the temperature quickly rose above freezing and by noon many main roads were clear with a few icy spots in the shade. Backroads were still slick. Schools and many businesses were closed.
After a cold start, Tuesday’s sunshine dried out nearly all streets.
During the storm, Duke Energy’s online outage map showed scattered results in our area. Kings Mountain proper had just a few places without juice. The Light Oak area near Shelby had a considerable number of outages. Other places that took a minor hit included Crouse and Lowell in Gaston County. Crews got everyone back up in record time.
This coming weekend there’s a chance- just chance mind you- of snow. Early forecasts say about a 30 percent chance. The City of Kings Mountain wants folks to be ready and has put out the following tips on its Facebook page- https://www.facebook.com/cityofkingsmountain
• City of Kings Mountain Electric and/or Water customers should call (704) 734-0333
• City of Kings Mountain Severe Road Conditions should call (704)-734-0444
• Duke Energy Electric customers should call (800)-769-3766
• Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation customers should call (800)-228-5331
• To report a possible natural gas leak, please evacuate the area and call 911
Be sure to follow the city website at www.cityofkm.com and  Facebook page, where updates will be made when available.
Duke Energy also sent out bulletin warning folks about after-storm scammers. It’s on the City of Kings Mountain  Facebook page.
The Duke Energy Power Outage map and other information is very useful at https://outagemap.duke-energy.com/#/home
Finally, here’s some safety tips for winter weather events-https://www.readync.gov/winter-weather
The bottom line? Be ready and safe for whatever Mother Nature throws at us for the rest of this winter. Hopefully it will be nothing.

 

During and after a winter storm, crews in affected areas work around the clock to monitor changing weather conditions and treat roads.
The N.C. Department of Transportation has more than 1,900 trucks that can be equipped with plows and spreaders to remove snow and ice. If needed, NCDOT moves trucks and equipment to areas more affected by a storm.
Depending on conditions, crews might pre-treat roadways with a mixture of water and salt called brine to help prevent ice from bonding to the pavement. After plowing roadways, crews use salt and sand – or a mixture of both – on road surfaces. Salt helps melt ice and snow, and sand provides extra traction.
Brine
Brine, a solution of water and 23 percent salt, is used to pretreat roadways in dry conditions when the temperature is above 18 degrees. The decision to pre-treat roads is made 24 to 48 hours before a storm.
Brine must be applied when it is not raining. Rain dilutes the solution and washes it off the road, making it ineffective.
Among several benefits, brine:
• Lowers the freezing temperature of water to about 18 degrees (-8 degrees Celsius).
• Prevents snow and ice from bonding with the road's surface.
• Keeps snow from being compacted by traffic, which can turn it into ice.
• Is more effective and coats roadways better than plain salt or sand.
• Gives crews time, since brining can occur up to 48 hours before a storm.
• Costs 15 cents per gallon to produce. One mile of a single lane of road can be treated for about $6. Rock salt costs about $14.38 to treat the same stretch of road.
Brine is made by loading a hopper with salt and water and agitating the ingredients until the solution is 23 percent salt. The solution is pumped into a holding tank and loaded onto trucks to be sprayed on roads.
NCDOT crews will sometimes use a brine blend with 10 percent calcium to remove snow and ice during and after a winter weather event. This solution can be used in combination with rock salt when temperatures are lower to keep the salt working longer.
Salt & Sand
Crews use salt and sand to help clear roads when a storm hits. After plows clear as much snow as possible, a mixture is spread on roads, with special attention given to freeway ramps.
Salt helps to melt the remaining snow and ice. Sand helps break up the ice and adds extra traction for vehicles.

 

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

 

By Alan Hodge

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

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

 

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

 

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