(December 2, 2020 Issue)

By Christy Conner,  City of KM

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Downtown Kings Mountain turns into a magical wonderland, as the sights and sounds of Christmas come back Home for Christmas.
Costner’s Christmas Light Extravaganza, a magnificent display of Christmas lights formerly owned by Grady and Katie Costner, now awaits visitors to Patriots Park. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through this magical wonderland of lights while enjoying traditional Christmas tunes from Liberty Falls Amphitheatre.
Beginning Saturday, December 5, the Mayor’s Downtown Christmas Fantasy Light Show synchronized to music from Let it Snow Radio 87.9 FM, will light up the night sky. To view the lights, visitors can stroll down Railroad Avenue or park on South Battleground Avenue and view from the comfort of their car. These special lights will be available for viewing throughout the Christmas season.
Other surprises await you at the Kings Mountain Home for Christmas Celebration. Dress warmly and don’t forget your mask.
   For more information, contact the Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, access their website at www.kingsmountainchristmas.com or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/CityofKMSpecialEvents.

(November 18, 2020 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

NCDOT continues to pave Hwy. 216 through Kings Mountain. To date, the state road has been paved from Kings Mountain Blvd. to the Hwy. 74 bypass on Piedmont Avenue, with the exception of downtown.
“We’ll begin working on the Streetscape in downtown Kings Mountain in late March 2021 for completion scheduled by September,” said City Manager Marilyn Sellers. “We are finalizing the Streetscape plan and presenting it to City Council at the end of this month.”
In downtown, water line updates need to be made in conjunction with the Streetscape project, so NCDOT skipped that portion of the work and will give the funds to the city for use when it comes time to pave Battleground Avenue.

(November 18, 2020 Issue)
By Loretta Cozart
Charlotte based Keith Corporation has begun marketing Kings Mountain Corporate Center’s 5-star industrial space at 705 Canterbury Road. The 164-acre site is permitted for 1,263,600 square feet under one roof and all utilities including water, sewer, gas and electricity will be provided by City of Kings Mountain. The property has extensive I-85 frontage with access to the interstate by two interchanges.
The facility will be built using construction reinforced concrete and work is slated to begin in 2021. The property is offered for sale for $35,000 per acre or build-to-suit for purchase or lease by The Keith Corporation. Industrial Developers on the project are Alan Lewis and Justin C. Curis.
Build-to-suit options include 100,000-1,000,000 SF. Companies in the park include Hanes Brands. Access to I-85, NC Highway 161 and Canterbury Rd. The corporate park is located 26-miles west of Charlotte Douglas International Airport via I-85.

(November 18, 2020 Issue)

John Michael (Mike) Houser’s body was recovered on Sunday, Nov. 8, following a two-day search for him when he did not meet his brother at the designated time while hunting in Jonesville, South Carolina the morning prior.
Union County Sheriffs’ Office began the search early Saturday afternoon and continued until 11:30 pm. The next morning the search was resumed, and Houser’s body was found around 1 pm on Sunday.
Indications are the death was accidental and that he fell from a tree, according to the Union County Sheriff’s office.
Houser’s funeral service was held on Friday, Nov. 13.
Mike Houser worked for the City of Kings Mountain for 31-years in their Energy Services Department. City Manager Marilyn Sellers asks everyone, “Please pray for staff because they not only lost a coworker but a very dear friend.” 

(November 18, 2020 Issue)

CBMA’s was held
virtually Nov. 14

The City of Kings Mountain is celebrating a big win! The city’s 2019 Beach Blast Festival held at Patriots Park in downtown Kings Mountain on August 23 and 24, 2019, has been named the Carolina Beach Music Awards Event of the Year. Beach Blast was one of six events nominated for this prestigious award winning over Fort Lauderdale FL, Raleigh NC, Cape Canaveral FL and two events at North Myrtle Beach.
“This win speaks to the excellence of leadership from our Special Events Director, Christy Conner,” stated Marilyn Sellers, City Manager. “Starting her career with the City of Kings Mountain in 2001, Christy was promoted in 2017 as the Special Events Director. Her leadership brings energy and enthusiasm to all our events. With her vision and ability to rally a team of staff and volunteers, the Beach Blast Festival has grown to be recognized across the State of NC and  the Southeast.”
“The Special Events team is honored by this win,” stated Christy Conner, Special Events Director.  “I would like to express my sincere thanks to our team of staff and volunteers. This win would not be possible without the creativity, dedication and passion of this group. I am very grateful for our City Council and Administration and their continued support. Through their support and leadership, we have a beautiful state of the art venue to host Beach Blast and other festivals and events. With confidence, I can say that Kings Mountain is on the right path to creating a vibrant entertainment district in Downtown and I’m excited to be a part of it!”
   Each year, members of the Carolina Beach Music Awards Association nominate on the best in Beach Music entertainment, such as, radio announcers, bands, events, and clubs. After the nominations are announced, members then vote for the official winners of each category.
   “It is really great that the CMBA has named Beach Blast 2019 the Southeast’s top Event of the Year as announced on FM 94.9 The Surf.” says Mayor Scott Neisler. “For one weekend in the piedmont of the Carolinas, we take our shoes off and pretend to walk in the sand enjoying some great beach music! This is a well-deserved accolade for our staff because we have no beach! Make plans now to join us in 2021 and see what all the fun is about!”
   The Carolina Beach Music Awards were held virtually, November 14. The awards ceremony aired online at www.949thesurf.com.
   For more information, you may also call the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www.KingsMountainEvents.Com.

(November 18, 2020 Issue)

City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department, Mauney Memorial Library and Patrick Senior Center partnered to honor Veterans with a drive-thru meal event on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the senior center.
Veterans enjoyed a BBQ meal prepared by Linwood Restaurant. Harris Funeral Home sponsored the beautiful wreath displayed during the event that was later moved to Patriots Park.
B&D RV Park and the Tom Brooks family co-sponsored the meal. Tony Coppola, owner of 238 Terra Mia Ristorante, provided gift cards to our Veterans.
Over 80 cars came through the event held at the Patrick Senior Center and the community thanks our veterans for their service to our county.

(November 11, 2020 Issue)

Republican Kevin Gordon, Chief Emeritus of the Waco Fire Department with a 30-year career in public service, is the new face on the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners.
Cleveland County voters went to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, and elected Gordon, a newcomer to county politics, and re-elected incumbent commissioners Johnny Hutchins and board vice-chairman Ronnie Whetstine.
Shaun Murphy, Democrat and newcomer to politics, lost his bid for one of three seats open on the board.
Hutchins, of Kings Mountain, led the ticket with 32,821 votes or 28.5 percent of the votes cast.
Whetstine, of Shelby, followed closely with 32,645 or 28.4 percent of the votes cast and Gordon, of Shelby,  with 32,248 votes or 28 percent of the votes cast. Shaun Murphy, of Kings Mountain, received 17,294 or 15 percent  of the votes cast.
Other members of the board with unexpired terms are Republicans Doug Bridges and Deb Hardin, both of Shelby.

(November 11, 2020 Issue)

A Republican sweep of the Cleveland County Board of Education race has placed five new faces on the 9-member board.
Joel Shores, who recently retired from the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department, led the winners with 29,735 votes or 13.5 percent of the votes cast.
Following closely was Robert Queen with 29,658 or 13.4 percent of the votes cast.
Greg Taylor, who received 28,371 of the votes cast,  or 12.8 percent, Ron Humphries with 28,317 votes or 12.8 percent of the votes cast, and Rodney Fitch with 27,715 votes or 12.5 percent of the votes cast, round out the winning candidates.
Ron Humphries is from Kings Mountain and other four winners are from Shelby.
The three incumbents, Shearra Miller, current board chairman, garnered 17,251 or 7.8 percent of the votes cast; Roger Harris received 17,077 or 7.7 percent of the vote cast;  Richard Hooker Jr, current board vice-chairman received 15,644 or 7.1 percent of the vote cast, and Samantha Davis received 14, 108 or 6.4 percent of the votes cast, and Michael Tolbert Sr. received 13,190 votes or 6 percent of the vote cast. All are Democrats. Mrs. Miller is from Kings Mountain. The other candidates are from Shelby.
Five Democrats and five Republicans sought the five open seats on the school board.
Transparency with the public, safety in schools, Corona Virus pandemic, high school graduation, and current policy on how a school board attorney is used were issues addressed during a candidate forum.
Other board members with unexpired terms are Danny Blanton, Phillip Glover, Dena Green, and Coleman Hunt.

(November 11, 2020 Issue)

Republicans won big in Cleveland County and voters supported candidates in state and national elections.
Tuesday’s turn-out in the 2020 general election set records.
In the Presidential election more than 75 million people cast votes for
Joseph R. Biden Jr., Democrat, and more than 71 million people cast votes for Republican President Donald J. Trump on Nov 3.
President Trump is challenging the election results  and declaration by media outlets that Biden has won the highly-contested race while votes are still being counted, including in North Carolina where the Presidential race is still up for grabs and Trump is leading Biden..
Pennsylvania, with its 20 electoral votes, put Biden over the 270 votes needed to clinch the election Saturday night but President Trump’s challenge of alleged voter fraud may wind up in the courts.
This year a record 103 million Americans voted early to avoid waiting in lines at polling places during a pandemic. More than 4.5 million people cast ballots in the Tar Heel State. That is more than 95 percent of all NC voters who cast ballot ins 2016. Turn-out at the polls on Nov. 3 was lighter.
Cleveland County voters supported Trump 2-1 over Biden. The unofficial vote was: Trump, 33,664 and Biden, 16,879.
Tim Moore, R - Cleveland, NC House of Representative 111, was re-elected. He defeated Jennifer Childers, also of Kings Mountain, 24,407-14,004. Moore is also Speaker of the NC House of Representatives.
Angela Woods of Kings Mountain lost her bid for District Court Judge 27-B Seat 5.  The  vote   totals: Jamie Hodge, R, 31,407; Woods, D, 17,173.
Cleveland County voters supported Thom Tillis, (R) 31,899 and Cal Cunningham (D), 16,681.
Democrat Governor Roy Cooper won re-election, defeating Republican Dan Forest. Cleveland County voters supported Dan Forest, 31,919 to Cooper’s 18,463.
Political newcomer and Republican Mark Robinson will become the state’s first African American to be elected Lieutenant Governor. Cleveland County voters supported Robinson 33, 182 to 16,881 for Democrat Yvonne Holly.
Ted Alexander, former mayor of Shelby, won 70 percent of the vote in his race for re-election to District 44 NC Senator. His opponent was Democrat David Lattimore.
Kelly Hastings won re-election to his District 110 NC House seat.
Republicans make up majority party on both the Cleveland County Board of Education and the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners with five new faces on the school board and one new face on the board of commissioners.
Ballots are still being counted in the Tillis- Cunningham US Senate race in North Carolina. Tillis claimed victory Nov. 3 but Cunningham said he waits for the vote count as the race has been too close too call. Tillis said he held 89 percent lead on Nov. 3.
There were 71 write-ins for US President by voters in Cleveland County. 

(November 11, 2020 Issue)

The 2020-2021 season of Kings Mountain Little Theatre (KMLT) opened with Frozen Jr. on Thursday, November 5 at 7:30 pm.
Due to the limited audience capacity allowed by Phase 3 of the North Carolina Covid-19 Plan, KMLT has added a Thursday evening performance to their schedule.  KMLT and corporate sponsor, Edward Jones Investments – Jack and Pam Buchanan announced the performance schedule that spanned two weekends. Remaining shows of Frozen, Jr. this week are scheduled for November 12, 13, and 14 at 7:30 pm, with a matinee scheduled on Sunday,
November 15 at 3 pm.
KMLT will have 100 seats available for each performance. Additional capacity may be available if NC has a change when the current Phase 3 order ends. Please look for further updates from KMLT.
Priority is given to season members and they are able to make a reservation to attend a performance. All others may purchase tickets at the box office.
KMLT will have 20 tickets per performance for purchase at the Box Office on a first come, first served basis.  Reserved seating not claimed at least 10 minutes before show time are subject to release for purchase  by others seeking tickets.
Season members may make reservations by calling the theater at 704-730-9408 and leaving a message or send a request to us at tickets@kmlt.org.
KMLT will maintain stringent health and safety protocols. To protect our audience, cast, crew and volunteers, they will:
• Check each individual before entering the building and ban anyone who has a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Log attendee and or group name, plus answers to the following questions (a yes answer to either question bans the individual and/or group)
• Ask the number in the group.
• As if you have exhibited any Covid-19 symptoms.
• Ask if you have been in contact with anyone who has COVID-19.
• Require mandatory mask wearing for non-actors (KMLT will provide as needed)
• Maintain social distancing when seating the audience
• Provide disposable masks and hand sanitizer
   Due to these protocols, the box office will open 90-minutes prior to the performance time and will work diligently to get everyone into the Joy Performance Center for a fantastic theatrical experience.

Republican Kevin Gordon, Chief Emeritus of the Waco Fire Department with a 30-year career in public service, is the new face on the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners.
Cleveland County voters went to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, and elected Gordon, a newcomer to county politics, and re-elected incumbent commissioners Johnny Hutchins and board vice-chairman Ronnie Whetstine.
Shaun Murphy, Democrat and newcomer to politics, lost his bid for one of three seats open on the  5-member board.
Hutchins, of Kings Mountain, led the ticket with 32,821 votes or 28.5 percent of the votes cast.
Whetstine, of Shelby, followed closely with 32,645 or 28.4 percent of the votes cast and Gordon, of Shelby,  with 32,248 votes or 28 percent of the votes cast. Shaun Murphy, of Kings Mountain, received 17,294.
Deb Hardin and Doug Bridges serve unexpired terms on the board. Susan Allen, board chairman, did not seek re-election.

A Republican sweep of the Cleveland County Board of Education race has placed five new faces on the 9-member board.
Joel Shores, who recently retired from the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department, led the winners with 29,735 votes or 13.5 percent of the votes cast.
Following closely was Robert Queen with 29,658 or 13.4 percent of the votes cast.
Greg Taylor, who received 28,371 of the votes cast,  or 12.8 percent, Ron Humphries with 28,317 votes or 12.8 percent of the votes cast, and Rodney Fitch with 27,715 votes or 12.5 percent of the votes cast , round out the winning candidates.
Ron Humphries is from Kings Mountain and other four winners are from Shelby.
The three incumbents, Shearra Miller, current board chairman, garnered 17,251 or 7.8 percent of the votes cast; Roger Harris received 17,077 or 7.7 percent of the vote cast;  Richard Hooker Jr, current board vice-chairman received 15,644 or 7.1 percent of the vote cast, and Samantha Davis received 14, 108 or 6.4 percent of the votes cast, and Michael Tolbert Sr. received 13,190 votes or 6 percent of the vote cast. All are Democrats. Mrs. Miller is from Kings Mountain. The other candidates are from Shelby.
Five Democrats and five Republicans sought the five open seats on the school board.
Transparency with the public, safety in schools, Corona Virus pandemic, high school graduation, and current policy on how a school board attorney is used were issues addressed during a candidate forum.
 

(November 4, 2020 Issue)

Last Wednesday, Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 171 to strengthen eviction protections to help North Carolina renters stay in their homes. With COVID-19 case counts increasing and many people continuing to work and learn remotely, preventing evictions is critical to the state’s fight against this virus. This order supplements the existing NC HOPE initiative started two weeks ago that pays landlords and utilities directly to keep people in their homes with the lights on.
“Many families are trying to do the right thing, but this virus has made it difficult. Roughly three to 400,000 households across North Carolina are currently unable to pay rent. Therefore, today, I have signed a new Executive Order to prevent evictions in North Carolina for people who can’t afford the rent,” said Governor Cooper. “The result during this global
pandemic will be more North Carolinians staying in their homes, more landlords getting paid rent, and fewer utility companies shutting off power.”
The economic toll of COVID-19 has left thousands of families struggling to make ends meet. According to a report from the National Council of State Housing Agencies, approximately 300,000 – 410,000 households across North Carolina are currently unable to pay rent, and an estimated 240,000 eviction filings will be submitted by January 2021.
Last month, the Center for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) put a temporary residential eviction moratorium into effect nationwide from September 4 through December 31, 2020. The CDC order protects residential tenants from eviction for nonpayment of rent. However, confusion over who this order protects has caused inconsistent enforcement and unwarranted evictions in some parts of the state.
   Executive Order No. 171 requires landlords to make residential tenants aware of their rights under the CDC Order. For eviction actions commencing after Executive Order No. 171, landlords must give residents the option to fill out a declaration form before starting any eviction action.
   The Order also sets forth procedures to ensure protection for residential tenants once they provide the required declaration form to the court or to the landlord.
   Executive Order No. 171 also clarifies the CDC moratorium so that it clearly applies to all North Carolinians who meet the CDC’s eligibility criteria, regardless of whether they live in federally-subsidized properties. The Order ensures that recipients of the N.C. Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) program are still able to qualify and that these renter protections will apply to North Carolinians regardless of the CDC Order’s status in other courts.
Today’s Order received concurrence from the Council of State.
Two weeks ago, Governor Cooper launched the $117 million NC HOPE program that provides  assistance to eligible low-and-moderate income renters experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic by making direct payments to landlords and utility companies. This program has received 22,800 eligible applications as of today. Given the demand for assistance shown over the last two weeks, the state will continue working to boost the HOPE program so it can help more North Carolinians make ends meet.
“The HOPE program is going a long way to help families stay safe in their homes by using coronavirus funds responsibly to pay landlord and utilities directly,” said Governor Cooper. “My administration is continuing to find ways to help struggling renters, but we still need Washington to put partisanship aside and send more relief to North Carolina.”
People can apply for help by calling 2-1-1 or going to nc211.org/hope.
In addition, to help ease housing concerns, North Carolina is funding the Back@Home program, which helps families experiencing homelessness and provides financial relief to some landlords whose tenants are at risk of homelessness.
 

(November 4, 2020 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

American Legion Post 155 has its Veteran’s Breakfast Saturday morning, November 7, at the Otis D. Green Post home on East Gold Street. The event is hosted by the Legion Riders.
All veterans are invited to this free breakfast the first Saturday of every month. Others are welcome to attend for a small donation which helps fund future breakfasts. The next breakfast will be on December 5 from 9 am to 11 am.

(November 4, 2020 Issue)

As restrictions remain in place for large gatherings and events, the City of Kings Mountain will honor our Veterans with a drive-thru meal event on Tuesday, November 10.
This event will take place at the Patrick Senior Center located at 909 East King Street, Kings Mountain. Veterans are asked to please arrive promptly, drive around the front of the building and continue to the back of the building under the canopy.  Please remain inside your vehicle and all meals will be carried out to you.
All veterans must contact the Patrick Senior Center at 704-734-0447 by Thursday, November 5 to RSVP. During registration, each Veteran will receive a meal pick-up time between 11 AM and 1 PM. 
For more information, contact the Patrick Senior Center at 704-734-0447 or visit www.KingsMountainEvents.com.

Kings Mountain City Council approved two economic incentive grants during the Oct. 27 City Council meeting that could impact business growth and job opportunities in Kings Mountain.
   Benestar Brands plans to build a $24 million dollar manufacturing facility to produce international food snacks and create 129 jobs with an average wage of $43,021.00 in Kings Mountain.
Kings Mountain City Council approved an economic incentive agreement with a financial cash grant  anticipated to be $61,920 per year over five years, or $309,600.00. This financial cash grant matches the financial cash grant by the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners in an economic development agreement approved on October 5.
Benestar Brands is the parent company of Evans Food Group and manufactures better-for-you high-quality snacks, and plans to produce Chica’s Brand Tortilla Chips in the Kings Mountain facility.
The company’s 129 new jobs will include managerial, operational, maintenance, warehouse and office staff. The average salary of $43,021.00 will create a payroll impact of more than $5.5 million per year. Cleveland County’s overall average annual wage is $40,019.
  A second company, yet to be named, plans a $100 million dollar warehousing and distribution site, in the Gaston portion of Kings Mountain. The company will decide upon their location soon between Kings Mountain and second location.
   The project is proposed to bring in 305 new jobs with an average salary of $45,627.00. The company has also requested economic incentive grants and is being referred to as Project TRIPLE PLAY. Gaston County Board of Commissioners already approved a Level Four Financial Incentive. Kings Mountain has been requested to do the same. Kings Mountain’s Economic Incentive Grant will mirror that of Gaston County.
   Under Gaston County’s Level 4 Industrial Grants, the company must pay their taxes in full each year based on the actual tax value of the property or investment. If the company meets all of the criteria in the application, a portion of the property tax will be returned as a grant. The amount of the grant is based on a sliding scale.
   All grant monies will be taken directly from the company’s tax payment. The company must be current with all other payments required by Gaston County.
   All investments in real property, new machinery and equipment over $50,000,000.00 would be eligible for a grant as shown below.
Year 1 - 85% property tax grant Year 6 - 70% property tax grant
Year 2 - 85% property tax grant Year 7 - 70% property tax grant
Year 3 - 85% property tax grant Year 8 - 70% property tax grant
Year 4 - 85% property tax grant Year 9 - 70% property tax grant
Year 5 - 85% property tax grant Year 10 - 70% property tax grant
   In addition, investment grants are based on the increase in tax value of all real property, machinery and improvements above the base year prior to investment and no grant will be given to a company that would reduce their tax payment to an amount lower than the previous tax year.  
   In other business, city council unanimously approved a request from Brinkley Properties of KM, LLC, Owner of 600 W. King Street, also identified as Parcel #7326, Map KM 8, Block 5, Lot 6 from Neighborhood Business (NB) to Residential Office (RO) and Ann Lin Chen, by her authorized agent, David Brinkley, to rezone property located at 604 W. King Street, also identified as Parcel #7933, Map KM 8, Block 5, Lot 7 from Neighborhood Business (NB) to Residential Office (RO) – Case No. Z-2-9-20.
   City council also unanimously approved a request from Kings Mountain Land Development Partners, LLC, to rezone property that fronts Compact School Road and Dixon School Road containing approximately 18 acres more or less as shown on a plat recorded in Plat Book 43 at Page 128 of the Cleveland County Registry, also identified as a portion of Parcel #11744, Map 44-4, Block 1, Lot 21 from Heavy Industrial (HI) to General Business (GB) – Case No. Z-3-9-20.
   Public hearings will be held Tuesday, November 24 at 6 pm to consider a request from Matt Bailey to rezone property on North Cansler Street containing .366 acres, also identified as Parcel #8540 from RS-6 Residential to R-6 Residential – Case No. Z-1-10-20.
  A second public hearing will be held Tuesday, November 24 at 6 pm to consider a request from Barry & Sherry Jenkins to rezone property located at 145 Yarbro Road containing 9.07 acres, also identified as Parcel #10722 from R-10 Residential to R-20 Residential – Case No. Z-2-10-20.

By Loretta Cozart

A budget amendment in the amount of $750,000 to budget expenditures and a contingency for the I-85 water project was approved by city council on Oct. 27 during the City Council meeting.
According to Assistant City Manager / Energy Services Director Nick Hendricks, “The project is being paid for with Water fund balance from grants received several years ago designated for that purpose.”
   The I-85 Water project will consist of clearing a 75 – 100 feet right of way to be utilized by the Water, Electric, and Gas Departments along I-85 from NTE to Highway 161. The city plans to install approximately 8,700 feet of 12 inch pipe, along with hydrants, valves, and services.
“Completing this project will encircle the city with water, reduce dead-ends and create consistent pressure throughout the city while improving water quality,” according to Hendricks.
   “This right of way will allow Gas and Electric to create a looped system as well, allowing all three utilities to provide exceptional service through redundant feeds. This will complete a process that the city has been working towards for over 30 years,” Hendricks added.
   The project was anticipated to cost $1.5 million, but bids were offered between $688,194.65 to $1.5 million. The low bid was offered by Two Brothers Utilities, LLC and council unanimously approved awarding them the contract.
Finance Director Chris Conner explained that the difference in the budget amendment and the contract bid of $61,805.35 was to allow for contingencies or delays.
“Once approved, the project could begin within 15 days and should take six months to complete the water portion of the project,” Henricks said.

(October 28, 2020 Issue)

Kings Mountain area voters will go to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3 to help elect county, state and national political leaders in an election season unlike any others because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Polling places open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m.
Kings Mountain area polling places are: Kings Mountain North at Patrick Senior Center, 909 E King Street; Kings Mountain South at Central United Methodist Church, 113 S. Piedmont; Bethware at Bethlehem Baptist Church Activities Center, 1017 Bethlehem Road; Oak Grove at Oak Grove Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 1022 Oak Grove Road; and in Grover at Town Hall, 207 Mulberry Road.
COVID 19 safety measures at polling places include social distancing, hand sanitizing and masks for voters and election workers who do not bring their own, barriers between election workers and voters at check-in tables, single use pens for voters to mark ballots and frequent cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
Several races involving area candidates are of interest to local voters. Local poll watchers point to the school board as the local race to watch because of the number of candidates, 10, and its significance because the results could also determine the majority Party on the 9-member board.
Five Democrats and 5 Republicans seek the five open seats on the board of education.   Candidates are   Republicans Robert Queen, Joel Shores, Greg Taylor, Rodney Fitch and Ron Humphries. Democrats are Michael Tolbert, Samantha Davis, and Roger Harris, Richard Hooker and Shearra Miller, incumbents.
Two other contested races involve local candidates.
 Four men seek the three open seats on the Cleveland County board of commissioners.  They are Republicans  Ronnie Whetstine, Johnny Hutchins, incumbents, and Kevin Gordon, and Shaun Murphy, Democrat.
Jennifer Childers, Democrat, is challenging Republican Tim Moore for his District 111 NC seat in the House of Representatives.
The Presidential race,  down to the home stretch, has four  candidates from four Parties but chief interest locally is the hot race between the incumbent President Donald Trump, Republican, and Joe Biden, Democrat,  former Vice President in the Obama administration. Other candidates are Don Blankenship, Constitution Party; Howie Hawkins, Green Party; and Jo Jorgensen, Libertarian.
Local voters are also interested in the NC Governor’s race where incumbent Roy Cooper, Democrat, is challenged by Dan Forest, Republican. Also running are Al Pisano, Constitution, and Steven DiFlore, Libertarian.
The United States Senate race has also heated up in recent weeks. Incumbent Thom Tillis is challenged by Democrat Cal Cunningham. Also running are Shannon Bray, Libertarian, and Kevin Hayes, Constitution.
Incumbent NC State Senator Ted Alexander of Shelby, District 44, Republican, is challenged by Democrat David Lattimore.

(October 28, 2020 Issue)

By Loretta Cozart

Helen Williams Bullock celebrated her 103rd birthday on Sunday, October 25. Bullock has experienced a lot in her lifetime. The year after Bullock was born, the Influenza Pandemic of 1918 swept across America and eventually the world. This year, Bullock battled and survived the Coronavirus.
“I got through it,” Bullock said. “I was lucky, because I had no symptoms. To live to my age requires being healthy.”
Any other year, Bullock would have celebrated her birthday at the First Baptist Church where she is a member. This year, the pandemic and Governor Cooper’s executive orders don’t allow for large gatherings. So, White Oak Manor, her friends and family arranged for a special drive-thru celebration so well-wishers could help her celebrate the big day.
“My birthday was so nice,” she said. “I spent the day answering phone calls and greeting people at the window,” a popular way for friends to visit loved ones in assisted living centers due to the Coronavirus. “I got calls from cousins, one even visited me early. Other friends from Florida had an accident on the way. They are okay, but their car was totaled. Friends from First Baptist Church called with well-wishes. It was wonderful.”
   Bullock's parents, Wray and Emma Mae Ware Williams, owned a farm where Watterson Street and Waco Road intersect. In 1941, she remembers that Watterson Street was opened from Davidson School  to Waco Road. “Back then, that road just separated pastures and fields,” she said. “My parents decided to move out to the country. They were able to get a newer house with air conditioning. It was much more comfortable, and they were lucky to have that in their older years.”
Bullock remembers walking to West School and then to Central High School. She attended West School from first-grade through seventh-grade. "We walked to school and joined with other families along the way. Walking to West School and Central wasn't too bad. When we walked all the way to East School, that was hard," she said. “In those days, we didn’t have buses, so everyone walked to school. If it rained, daddy would drive me.”
Bullocks parents had a farm, so she didn’t go into town often. “If mama needed something, she would send me to Mr. Gantt’s store, at the corner of Waco Road and Gantt Street. It was the only store I knew about back then and it was across the road from the Pauline Mill Mama would send me there for necessities; things we couldn’t get from the farm like salt and pepper, necessary things.”
During her junior year of high school, Central School burned, and students attended two different schools while the facility was being rebuilt. They attended East School in the morning and then went to Central late in the day. On some days, that schedule was flip-flopped. "The auditorium and classrooms below did not burn. Classes in those sections included primary grades and home economics," said Bullock. "We went to school in the evening for Home Economics, and I played basketball on the auditorium stage."
   Her high school class photo was taken in front of Central School. "I guess they finished rebuilding the school by graduation in 1934. It was tough dividing our class time across two different schools, but we got through it. We had 37 or 38 students in our senior class."
   "I do remember singing in the Glee Club for President Hoover when he came to the battleground in 1930," said Bullock. "Of course, we didn't get to stay to enjoy the celebration. As soon as we finished singing, they took us right back to school."
   After high school, Bullock attended school at WC-UNC, later called the Woman's College of Greensboro. Today it is known as UNC-G. She earned a double major in Home Economics and Science. After college, she taught both classes in Seaboard, NC for four years. While there, she met her future husband, Welford Bullock. When World War II began, life changed dramatically.
Bullock's brother was drafted. Her boyfriend, Welford Bullock, volunteered for the Navy and was stationed in the Pacific. Helen felt the call to serve and joined the Army but was turned down. A short time later, she applied again and was accepted in the Women's Army Corps. Helen said, "I joined for my well-being. It was an exciting time in my life."
She worked in Intelligence for the Army, "The most exciting time I remember was an invasion that occurred during our shift. We went to work at 7 am before the invasion occurred. We worked through the night and weren't allowed to change shifts; they brought us food. It was exciting to know what was going on and to be a part of that."
   Helen and Welford Bullock married in 1944 before her tour of duty ended in May of 1945. "That was a difficult time of me," she said. After the war ended, the couple returned to Seaboard, NC, where she worked as a teacher of Science and Home Economics until she her retirement.
   "We moved back to Kings Mountain to take care of my sister, Maud Williams McGill," said Bullock. "She wasn't well and needed us." After McGill passed away, the Bullocks remained in Kings Mountain.
Welford Bullock passed away in 2003 and Bullock now lives in White Oak Manor. "Christy Speed takes care of my clothes and business affairs. She does a wonderful job for me; she is very professional."
Speed feels a similar admiration for Bullock. “She is an amazing person. She always does for others and continues to stay active,” she said. “Before COVID, Helen ate lunch in the cafeteria and stayed active. I enjoy working with her because she has led an amazing life.”
Helen Bullock has lived an interesting life and survived two pandemics. She has seen tremendous change in the city in her 103 years. But the pandemic is different, because it causes isolation, which is difficult for many people, including senior citizens. “The days are hard to fill now. We don’t have activities here due to the virus, so I welcome creative uses of my time to fill the day. We’ll get through this too, one day at a time.”

Mark your calendars and get ready to dance! Something spooky is heading to Kings Mountain.
Dance the night away with the City of Kings Mountain’s virtual event Monster Bash LIVE.
 Some of your favorite Halloween characters come back from the grave for a night of music and fun, exclusively on the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Facebook page at:  https://www.facebook.com/CityofKMSpecialEvents
This ghostly event will take place Halloween night at 6:30 pm - It’s guaranteed to be spooky fun for the entire family!
For more information, call the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, visit the web at www.KingsMountainEvents.com/monster-bash.

(October 21, 2020 Issue)

Cleveland County Small Business Recovery Program announced grants up to $10,000 for small businesses adversely affected by COVID-19. The application period is October 23 through November 6.
To qualify, the businesses must be located in Cleveland County, earn $500,000 or less in revenue according to its most recent tax filing, have a minimum of 25% impact in revenue due to COVID-19, have 25 or fewer full-time employees, and have operated for 2 years or more.
Applications will be taken online though Mountain Bizworks. To learn more, visit: https://www.mountainbizworks.org/coronavirus/covid-19-loans/cleveland-county-small-business-recovery-program/

 (October 21, 2020 Issue)

 Martin Marietta Kings Mountain Quarry was recognized as Best of the Best among 400 operations after recently winning their company’s prestigious Diamond Honor Award during a ceremony the Gateway Trailhead on October 2. The award is presented each year by Martin Marietta to the best operation companywide.
   While the award is the first for Kings Mountain Quarry, the team is no stranger to companywide recognition, having been named a Martin Marietta Honor Plant in 1999 and 2012. The Diamond Awards program succeeded Honor Plant recognition in 2016.
   According to Martin Marietta’s Chairman and CEO Ward Nye, “operations considered for Diamond Honor Award status are evaluated based on their performance over the previous three years and must demonstrate continuous improvement over that period in the areas of safety, ethical conduct, operational excellence, environmental sustainability, cost discipline and customer satisfaction.”
   Kings Mountain Quarry has a positive and long-standing relationship with both the city of Kings Mountain and the Gateway Trail. The land for the trailhead on Hwy 216 was donated by Martin Marietta and serves as a parking area, office/restroom facility and shelter area for the public.
   Martin Marietta recognized the team at Kings Mountain with a socially-distanced luncheon on October 2 at the Gateway Trailhead. At the lunch, Regional Vice President-General Manager Jim Thompson and Plant Manager Adam Thompson thanked employees for their dedication, hard work and commitment to safety.
   Honorees recognized at this event included Ronald Borum (plant manager who retired in May), Adam Thompson, Chris Safrit, Peter Glisson, Phil Wright, Chris Foster, Deborah Dover, Todd Scism, Thomas Whelan, David Barnette, Kyle Jarrell, Michael Jenkins, Rodney Lynch, Travis Brady, Randy Cogdell, Timothy Harvely, Brandon Frigo, Mark McWhirter, John Williams, Kenneth Caveny, Keith Smith, Michael Sanders and Jakob Garcia.

By Loretta Cozart

President Trump will make a campaign stop in Gastonia on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at  7 pm at the Gastonia Municipal Airport for a rally, according to his campaign. Doors open at 4 pm.
In the 2016 election, Trump received 641,798 votes, or 64% of the vote in Gaston County. Hillary Clinton received 31,177 votes, garnishing 32.33% of the vote.
In Cleveland County, Trump won 28,479 votes, to Clinton’s 14,964. As in the 2016 election, the battle for the White House is critical with the state’s 15 electoral votes hanging in the balance.
Gastonia Municipal Airport is at 1030 Gaston Day Road in Gastonia, NC.

Voters will go to the polls in a local competitive race Nov. 3 to elect three members of the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners from a candidate list of four.
Incumbents Johnny Hutchins, Kings Mountain, Ronnie Whetstine, Shelby, board Vice-Chair, political newcomers Kevin Gordon of Shelby, all Republicans, and Democrat Shaun Murphy, Kings Mountain, face-off in the general election.
Susan Allen, board chairman, did not seek re-election because of planned family activities. Other members of the board not up for re-election this year are Republicans Doug Bridges and Deb
Hardin, both of Shelby.
“Cleveland County has always been my home,’’ said Johnny Hutchins. He continued, “After serving in the United States Army I returned to Kings Mountain to start and raise my family.  Over 20 years I volunteered and was Captain of the Kings Mountain Rescue Squad, so leadership and service define who I am.
‘’After retiring from the mining industry I felt the need to do something that would help better the lives of my children and grandchildren, so instead of talking about it I ran for county commissioner. Working for the people of Cleveland County is an honor,’’ said Hutchins.
‘’I have great interest in improving and making this county the best it can be, for everyone, my greatest ‘’assets - live, work, worship and go to school here,’’ Hutchins added,
Since being elected Hutchins said he has dedicated himself, giving 100 percent to Cleveland County, county employees and the citizens. “As your county commissioner, I will continue to make myself easily accessible for your concerns and issues. There are many projects that I am a part of that need to be completed and I will continue to work diligently for the development of Cleveland County,’’ he added.
“My goals are simple - towork for the people to make Cleveland County a better place to live. Working with Economic Development, I have and will continue to support all  public entities such as  the Fire Departments, EMS and law enforcement to make certain they have the resources they need to continue to provide excellent service and protection for the county, Hutchins added.
“Thank you for your support.  Together we can make a difference,’’ he added.
“As a native to Cleveland County it has been my ongoing desire to improve the place we live, work, play and worship,’’ said Ronnie Whetstine. He continued, “I feel our county and state is the best place in the country to reside.”
Whetstine says he has served on many boards and projects as he and his wife, Susan, raised their daughter and built WW Contractors, Inc. into a business that has provided over 300 homes for the citizens of the county.
He lists some of the accomplishments led by the commissioners and goals.
• Built and develop Cleveland County for growth.
• Protect our conservative Christian values.
• Keep taxes low.
• Grow our workplace by promoting economic development including innovative ideas such as                                                            the Charlotte Back Yards program.
• Tele-medicine expanded from Graham School to Marion and Jefferson Elementary in Shelby and North, East, West and Bethware in Kings Mountain.
• County-wide insurance rating for property owners decreased an average of $15 per month due to implementation of VFD Strategy Plan.
• Accelerate Cleveland-Program to help under-employed to move up to higher paying jobs which help employers advance and  employers find higher qualified workers. Graduate salaries doubled after placement. (average wage approximately $42,000.)
• Find more efficient ways of doing business, including replacement of out -dated IT and software systems. First upgrade in over 30 years.
• Work  to improve overall health of the county by supporting green spaces, trails, parks and the West End Reach.
• Support all 15 municipalities within the county by sharing information, resources and working together on projects.
Kevin Gordon says his opportunity to fill one of the candidacy seats for county commissioner parallels his professional background and is of much interest after a 30-year career in public service including leadership roles in both city and county governments.
After retiring as Deputy Fire Chief for the Charlotte Fire Department in 2018 he serves as Director of Emergency and Fire Services for Gaston County.
Gordon is Chief Emeritus of the Waco Fire Department having served as a volunteer fireman since 1984 and for a number of years as Fire Chief. At Waco he led the transition of Waco Fire Department from a volunteer department to a combination department. A FLSA compliance program began July 1, 2017 paying stipends to volunteers and paid daytime firefighters. At Charlotte  Fire Department he led a department  of  1,207   and had a successful track record serving as chair  of the joint legislative committee for NC State Firefighters Association and NC Association of Fire Chiefs and for five years instrumental in passing key pieces of legislation which became NC Session law. He is a past president of the NC Firefighters Association. Gordon resides in Shelby with his wife, Sherry, and their Labrador Retriever. The Gordons have two sons, Alex (Macy) and Zachary (Ann Marie) and grandson Elliott James Gordon.
Gordon ‘s platform:
• Strong advocate for all public safety agencies, unwavering support for the Sheriff’s Department, Fire
Departments, EMS, and Rescue Squads.
• Proficient in maximizing efficiency of county operations and resources by modernizing outdated systems, processes and technology.
• Champion of Economic Development and the creation of jobs with decent salaries and benefits to create sustainable growth within the county.
• Experienced fiduciary manager with over 30 years public service in both city and county operations.
• Steadfast proponent of fiscal sustainability, responsible spending, and effective use of county resources.
Dedicated to fiscal conservatism, protecting conservative values, transparency in the county operation and improving the health and wellness of our citizens.
• Facilitator of regional collaboration with adjoining counties and intergovernmental collaboration with the towns and cities in the county.
.Partner who will maintain the state-county relationship through effective communication and maintain positive working relationships at all levels to acquire needed resources for our citizens.
Born in Shelby and raised in Kings Mountain, Shaun Murphy’s mother and father were soldiers. A 2004 graduate of Kings Mountain High School, he attended Appalachian State University from 2011-2013. He says since a young boy he has been a big fan of food, video games, music and swimming.
“Learning life lessons the hard way eventually taught me that I really wanted to do something to give back to the community and that I could serve a higher purpose than just existing. I got my start serving on the John Henry Moss Reservoir Commission from June 2017-19 when I moved outside Kings Mountain city limits,’’ said Murphy.
Growing up in Cleveland County all his life, Murphy said he’s more than qualified to have an influence and interest in what happens in the county.
Said Murphy, “I know what it’s like to work long hours for not enough pay like so many of our residents do every day. While I can relate to many I feel I can better relate to anyone who has ever needed a second chance at anything or has ever had to start over from scratch. I know that life is not always perfect and that sometimes struggle is necessary to get to a better position. With me as county commissioner I promise to struggle for us all to get  to a better position, a position where we can all thrive.”

With 14 days until the Nov. 3 general election more than 12,782 ballots have been cast in Cleveland County.
Election officials report a strong showing of more than 19 percent of registered voters in Cleveland County by voters who have cast ballots, more than 14 percent in the state.
More than 1 million people have already voted in North Carolina in the 2020 election, according to the state board of elections website. This is the first weekend that voters cast their ballots in person. There are 7,292,471 registered voters in the state and 1,350,599 absentee ballots have been requested.
As of 1:30 p.m. Oct. 16 North Carolina voters had cast 570,019 ballots by mail and 468,020 ballots in person.
Early voting continues through Oct. 31 in Kings Mountain at Mount Zion Baptist Church, 220 N. Watterson Street with a significant increase in hours and weekend voting.
Evening hours are Oct 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, and 29. Saturday hours are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 24 and Oct. 31. The Sunday hours on Oct. 25 are from 1-5 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 27 is the deadline to apply for absentee ballots from the Cleveland County Board of Elections, Shelby. For your ballot to count, voter and a witness must sign it and it can be returned to the County Board of Elections by mail, to early voting site or by dropping off at the Cleveland County Board of Elections.,
“We’re glad to see so many North Carolina voters performing their civic duty and letting their voices be heard by voting,’’ said Karen Brinson Bell, Executive Director of the State Board of Elections and we look forward to more North Carolinians casting their ballots and staying safe while doing it.”
Safeguards are in place as voters cast their ballots- masks for all poll workers and voters who do not bring their own, single-use pens, sanitation stations and protective barriers. The sites will be professionally cleaned throughout the entire 17-day period and election workers routinely sanitize all surfaces.

By Loretta Cozart

Reverend John Wilcox joined First Presbyterian Church in Kings Mountain two months ago. He is a graduate of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, MI and completed his eligibility for Ordination through Reformed Theological Seminary.
“I am passionate about connecting people to Christ, into community, and into ministry, as well as caring for the needs of those both in the church and in the community,” Wilcox said. “Through my years of ministerial service in various roles, God
has  graciously  led  me  in  shepherding, equipping, and preaching His Word in grace with a fervent heart. I look forward to being part of First Presbyterian Church and the Kings Mountain Community.”
Reverend Wilcox is joined by his wife, Amanda, who, according to Wilcox “worked for GE Aviation for 9 years before being promoted to stay at home mom of 4.” Their children are Vivienne - 11, Trevor - 9, Ethan - 5 and Elise - 2. The family resides at the church’s manse.

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain City Council will address the issue of economic incentive grants for the recently announced Benestar Brands (Project CHIPPY) and the yet to be disclosed Project TRIPLE PLAY during their meeting on October 27 at 6 pm. Currently, the city does not have an Economic Incentive Grant policy but has been discussing one in closed session.
The Herald reached out to Kings Mountain’s City Manager, Marilyn Sellers regarding the methodology being used in framing these agreements. Sellers replied, “Staff is still working on information for our economic agreement. At the minimum we are adopting what Gaston County and Cleveland County are approving. We currently work very close with Gaston County’s economic development commission and Cleveland County’s economic development partnership regarding incentives.’
In the public notice that ran in Herald on October 14, it was shared, “The City of Kings Mountain proposes a financial grant that would be at least equivalent or similar to the Level 4 financial incentive grant approved on September 22, 2020 by the Gaston County Board of Commissioners.” 
To better understand what a Level Four incentive grant means, the Herald referred to Gaston County’s Economic Development Commission’s Local Investment Grant Program documentation, since that is one after which Kings Mountain’s agreement will be mirrored. Under Gaston County’s Level 4 Industrial Grants, all investments in real property, new machinery and equipment over $50,000,000.00 would be eligible for a grant as shown below.
• Year 1 - 85% property tax grant Year 6 - 70% property tax grant
• Year 2 - 85% property tax grant Year 7 - 70% property tax grant
• Year 3 - 85% property tax grant Year 8 - 70% property tax grant
• Year 4 - 85% property tax grant Year 9 - 70% property tax grant
• Year 5 - 85% property tax grant Year 10 - 70% property tax grant
   In addition, investment grants are based on the increase in tax value of all real property, machinery and improvements above the base year prior to investment and no grant will be given to a company that would reduce their tax payment to an amount lower than the previous tax year. Also, purchases of any existing Gaston County facility or equipment will not qualify under their program.
All grant monies are taken directly from the company’s tax payment and the company must be current with all other payments required by Gaston County.
Economic incentive grants help municipalities stimulate economic development. If done properly, both the city and its citizens benefit by stabilizing the economy and through offering higher paying jobs that provide better pay. Both the city and its people must benefit from the agreement.
An article written by Jonathan Q. Morgan, in January 2009: Using Economic Development Incentives: For Better or for Worse. Popular Government, 74 (2): 16-29, through UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Government examines how states and localities that aggressively use incentives in the job wars may win big—but at what actual cost?
   Morgan suggests several mechanisms that might help jurisdictions win with incentives but avoid the winner’s curse of paying too much for too little in return. These include some safeguards already adopted in North Carolina, such as clawback provisions, tying incentives to company performance, requiring performance contracts, conducting cost-benefit analyses and establishing standards for wages and job quality.
“The City of Kings Mountain believes this project will stimulate and provide stability to the local economy and will provide local economic benefits as well as new diverse high paying jobs for the citizens of Kings Mountain,” the city’s public notice states. “This will have a positive effect on the City’s corporate tax base and further ensure stability for the City of Kings Mountain.”
City council will decide upon the city’s first Economic Incentive Grant Policy on Tuesday, October 27. Done correctly, the city and its people could benefit from these decisions for generations to come.
 

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County Potato Projected harvested 30,000 pounds of sweet potatoes two weeks ago at the Botts site and 941 boxes of very nice produce was distributed last week. 
Wet conditions will keep workers out of the field early this week, but they hope to work Wednesday, Thursday and Friday beginning at 9 am.  To prepare for harvest, all vines have been cut away from potatoes, so  they must  be harvested, or they will rot.
The organization is also facing a box shortage. If you are aware of a large supply of boxes, please call Doug Sharp at 704-472-5128. ABC boxes work well for this purpose. 

Grady K. Howard Sr., who died Sept. 6 at age 97, and Norma Falls Bridges, who died Sept. 17 at age 88, left their mark on the Kings Mountain community.
Howard, former Administrator of Kings Mountain Hospital, and Bridges, former city commissioner and the city’s first female elected to this office, left behind a legacy of service and leadership.
“I met Grady Howard in 1953 when he came to work at the hospital and as a young reporter I went to his office from the Herald to start what began a weekly log in the paper – the names and dates of discharged patients,’’ said Lib Stewart, longtime employee of the Herald. The last interview was for a feature section on veterans and Howard was among the few World War II veterans living at the time.
“Grady Howard was a great friend of the Herald and a favorite reader. He told us what he liked  and  often congratulated us on putting out a good hometown newspaper,’’ added Stewart.
Ms. Stewart continued, “I covered city council for years and worked with mayors and elected officials, including Norma Bridges.
“Norma Bridges was always open with the Press. She had a great rapport with voters and swept the field of candidates on election day.  Her fellow council members honored her as mayor pro tempore.
“Bridges was a champion for young people and the Parks & Recreation committee was her favorite place for service. She and her husband attended the games and helped the players in many ways while keeping out of the spotlight, Stewart said.
“This year we have mourned the deaths of many citizens. Their pictures and obituaries in the Herald tell some of their story of their close-knit relationship with family, friends, and the community. Mr. Howard and Mrs. Bridges are among those who left behind a lasting legacy,’’ said  Stewart.