Screen shot 2023 08 23 at 4.34.39 pm — Cailyn Van Buren and her mother, Susie Graham, attended the administration meeting for Cleveland County Schools together for the first time in August. Photo by Loretta Cozart

A mother-daughter
defining moment

By Loretta Cozart

Susie Graham has worked in Cleveland County Schools for 33 years, but this year may be her most memorable. This year will also be special for her daughter, Cailyn Van Buren, who just moved from teaching fifth grade to becoming assistant principal at Bethware Elementary School.
As the staff returned to work this month, Susie posted on her Facebook page, “I attended my yearly beginning of school administrative meeting today—something I’ve done for many years. While I can’t recall everything about the earlier years, this is one I will never forget because today, I was blessed to attend with my daughter as she begins her administrative journey. She has worked hard to become an education leader and, this year, will serve as an assistant principal at the elementary level. Seeing her walk into the room in a leadership role made this Mama’s heart swell. Cailyn Van Buren, you make me so proud.”
Looking back, Susie says, “It was a defining moment.
I can’t explain the feeling to anybody how that felt to watch her walk in and sign in as an administrator. I would have never guessed that would happen.”
The experience was an important one for Cailyn, too. “I felt excited and nervous to attend the meeting. Excited about the new adventure that I had worked hard to achieve and to know I was attending a meeting with my mom that I had heard her talk about for years. This was a defining moment in my career, knowing the hard work is paying off.”
Susie started her career as the PE teacher at Grover and began coaching at Kings Mountain High School in 1991. She moved to the high school to teach and continued coaching. “When Cailyn and her brother Caleb were born, I started teaching,’ she said. “I had Caleb right before I started. And then her while I was at Grover and I was coaching, so they became gym rats. They were everywhere. I mean, I’ve got pictures of them sleeping on bleachers because they were with me.”
Susie became the Assistant Principal at Grover for ten years, moving on to Shelby for one year as assistant principal and then to Union as an Assistant Principal for eight years. She is the Transportation Coordinator for Cleveland County Schools and has been in that role for seven years.
So, it isn’t surprising that Cailyn, and her brother Caleb, would gravitate toward work in Cleveland County Schools because, in a way, that is where they grew up. Susie says, “My son Caleb works in maintenance. The school system means so much to him that that’s where he wanted to work because he knew that was a good place to be.” Many families work in Cleveland County Schools, according to Susie, and hers is no different. “Cailyn is an assistant principal, her husband Eric is in technology, my daughter-in-law Amber is a teacher assistant at Grover, and Caleb is the plumber for maintenance,” she said. For them, working for Cleveland County Schools is a family affair.
   The bond between Susie and Cailyn was evident as they spoke. “We know we are in our safe place with each other. She can call and tell me how she feels. And I can call to share how I feel, and we know it will be all right between us,” Cailyn said.
   “Mom coached me throughout the years, so there were times we had to put aside our mother-daughter relationship. She was the leader and told me what I needed to do to fix things. We have a relationship and can be honest with each other and don’t take it personally. She has taught me to take criticism to improve myself and use it to my advantage.”
   When asked about the transition from the classroom to administration, Cailyn said, “It’s going to be an adjustment for a while. And I have great leaders that I’m working with who are paving the way to help me lead.”
     Even though Cailyn is now a wife, mother of two, and assistant principal, she and her mom always talk on their way to work. “Every morning, we have our car conversation on the way to school, and it has always been that way,” Cailyn said. This mother and daughter, now peers in the workplace, have an unshakable bond called love and a defining moment that will last a lifetime.

Screen shot 2023 08 23 at 4.35.45 pm — Valerie Boyd of The Davidson Association with members of NC State Extension. Photo by Loretta Cozart

The Davidson Association Health Fair a huge success

By Loretta Cozart

   This year’s Davidson Health Fair focused on balance, as all aspects of life impact your health. Taking care of your health is crucial for living your best life. The event was held at Mt Zion Baptist Church Life Center in Kings Mountain and featured educational resources from various organizations.
   Another key is monitoring your health through annual checkups to ensure you live your healthiest life. Learning about disease prevention and taking an active role in keeping yourself healthy impacts your longevity. As we age, it is necessary to monitor blood pressure, and cholesterol, among others, to keep your
body balanced and working efficiently.
   The Davidson Association invited Kintegra, Cleveland County Health Department, and NC Cooperative Extension, along with Atrium Care Solutions, Alzheimer’s Association, Carol Moletta w/Outreach Broker Medicaid, Cleveland County Drug Free Communities, Common Ground Café, Faith Community Health Ministry Atrium, 4-H Youth Program, Health Chiropractic, Healthy Cooking Class, Josh Shelton w/Edward Jones, Kings Mountain Farmers Market, Lupus Foundation, Master Gardeners, Meditation Class, Minority Health Council, Partners Health Management, Sarcoidosis Foundation, Sickle Cell Disease, Starr Project-Youth Suicide Prevention, and TLK Candles to participate.
   Citizens can utilize annual physicals, sick visits, and chronic disease management like diabetes and high blood pressure by visiting Cleveland County Health Department’s Primary Care Center at 200 S. Post Road in Shelby. They accept private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare. Uninsured individuals will be billed based on income and the number of people in their household. The Health Department also has a dental clinic. For more information, call 980-484-5261.
   Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

What is Kings Mountain Forward?

By Loretta Cozart

On Saturday, August 19, Kings Mountain Forward hosted a meet-and-greet from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Garden at Joy Performance Theater downtown during the NC BeachBlast Festival, so the community and business owners could learn more about the organization. So, what is Kings Mountain Forward, who is involved, and what do they stand for?
According to the handout shared, KM Forward’s mission is to build a community of citizens and business leaders to advocate for Kings Mountain as a place to live, play, shop, explore, and invest. They promote the economic, social, and cultural environment throughout the city. Any small business in Kings Mountain is welcome to join them to support all Kings Mountain businesses and gain networking connections and publicity for members and their local businesses.
Officers of KM Forward are President, David Stone, VP Vicki Thompson, Secretary Kiamesha Young, Treasurer Mary Grace Keller, and Past President Jimmy Magar.
Non-officer Board Members include Sandie Dee, Jim Champion, Beth Allen, Paul Ingram, City of KM Marketing, Tourism, and Events Susan Mosk, Committee Chairs Cindy Souza, and Jimbo Thompson.
Jimbo Thompson chairs the Central Business District Standards Committee and members include David Stone and Russ Putnam.
Cindy Souza chairs the KM Small Business Promotion Committee and members include Chris Gibby, Taylor Caldera, Sky Smith, Jewel Reavis, Ellis Noell, Iris Hubbard, and Vicki Thompson.
Phil Dee chairs KM Small Business Economic Development, and members are Sandie Dee and Steve Padgett.
Jim Champion chairs Build a Strong Business Community, and members include Beth Allen, Paul Ingram, Tim Miller, and Jimmy Magar.
David Stone chairs the Kings Mountain Forward RBM Program (Commercial Real Estate redevelopment, rehabilitation, and maintenance).
“We look at Kings Mountain like a wheel with spokes. We have our central business district, but we are also interested in driving business and economic development down our major thoroughfares, like Battleground Avenue, Cleveland Avenue, Highways 161 and 216, and King Street, from the Patrick Senior Center west to the by-pass. We are concerned with how we should market Kings Mountain and effectively drive people to our city,” Stone said.
If you would like to know more about KM Forward, please speak to a board member for more information. KM Forward is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

First COKM Citizens
Academy starts Sept. 28

The first City of Kings Mountain Citizens Academy will be held in the Fall of 2023 and will consist of fifteen citizens who are chosen through an application process. The application link is available at CityofKM.com, under Administration, or by visiting the City Clerk’s office at City Hall.
The academy will be a commitment of eight weeks and consist of six weekly sessions, attendance at the Thursday, October 12 Work Session, and a graduation ceremony during the Council meeting on Tuesday, November 28.
The proposed date of the first session is Thursday, September 28. Each session will begin with a light meal at 5:30 pm at the assigned weekly location.
Staff will form a curriculum of instruction that will blend small group discussions, field trips, and presentations that will provide the citizen with valuable information to help them better understand all City functions.
The City of Kings Mountain Citizens Academy is designed in the spirit of transparency, openness, and participation. The citizens are the City’s stakeholders, and they have a right to participate to be involved in the governance of their communities. Citizens will learn about how municipal government is structured, as well as gain knowledge of the different factors that impact the decision-making process for Staff and Council.
This academy will be a positive avenue for citizens to interact with Council and
Staff that they are not accustomed to seeing when they pay their utility bill at City Hall. While the goal is to provide participants with good information and convey a positive image of the City of Kings Mountain, this may also be an opportunity for them to ask questions about where their tax dollars are being spent and how their utility rates are determined. It is important for both Council and Staff to be prepared to answer these types of questions and address their concerns.
The City Council first expressed interest in creating a Citizens Academy in the spring of 2018 to educate the citizens of Kings Mountain about the goals and objectives of their city government and to familiarize citizens with how City government operates. Another goal of the academy was to inform citizens on how they might become involved in decisions that have a direct impact on them and their community by serving on one of the City’s many boards and commissions.
CITIZENS ACADEMY
Fall 2023
Schedule of Sessions
Sessions will begin at 5:30 pm. Dinner will be provided.
Council Meetings begin at 6:00 pm.

Session I September 28 Introductions - Welcome Message from Staff/Mayor/City Council Members, Overview of the Citizens Academy, Municipal Government
and City Manager Form of Government (Administration & HR), H. Lawrence Patrick Senior Center, 909 E. King Street

Session II October 5 Fiscal Services: - Finance, Customer Service and Information Technology, City Hall, 101 W. Gold Street, Council Chambers, Council WS October 12 Council Chambers, City Hall

Session III October 19 Development Services: - Planning, Inspections & Codes and Marketing, Tourism & Events, 101 W. Gold Street, Council Chambers

Session IV October 26 Public Safety – Police and Fire - Public Safety Training Room – KMPD, 112 S. Piedmont Avenue

Session V November 2 Public Infrastructure (Water, Moss Lake, Public Works, - Stormwater and Cemetery), Energy Services (Gas and Electric), Public Works Conference Room, 1013 N. Piedmont Avenue

Session VI November 16 Cultural Enrichment – Library, Senior Center and Recreation - Mauney Memorial Library, 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Graduation November 28 City Council Chambers

Back-to-school for
Cleveland County school students

By Loretta Cozart

On Wednesday, August 16, 14,220 students returned to 30 Cleveland County Schools. The Herald asked parents of Kings Mountain and Grover students to share photos for this week’s paper. Included in the photos are students from Pre-K through their senior year. Best wishes to all students, educators, and administrators for a successful school year. Pictured above is first grader Ryland Mills.

See more photos on page 8B of the August 23, 2023 issue of KM Herald

The community gathered to celebrate National Night Out in Kings Mountain last Tuesday, August 1 at Patriot’s Park. The event, sponsored by the City of Kings Mountain gave the community the opportunity to meet local law enforcement and first responders while enjoying food,music and a variety of family friendly activites.

See more photos on page 8B of August 9, 2023 issue of KM Herald.

Photos provided by City of KM

Screen shot 2023 08 10 at 9.37.43 am — The Skillet is open at 238 Cherokee Street. (Photo by Loretta Cozart)

The Skillet is open downtown

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain has a downtown restaurant once again! The Skillet, at 238 Cherokee Street, held a soft opening on Wednesday, August 2, and is open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. with plenty of parking outside. They are closed on Sunday.
Currently, the restaurant is dine-in only, with no to-go orders being offered. “That will only be for a short time, as the staff becomes acclimated,” said owner Iris Hubbard. “We’ll add that shortly, once we get settled in.”
The restaurant is a casual, family-friendly concept, with country music playing in the background. Customers seat themselves, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Folks can choose to sit at tables, or the bar made from reclaimed wood near the kitchen and watch as their orders are being prepared.
The tables are covered in paper, so children can create masterpieces while they wait for their meals. A special display for their artwork is right across from the bar seating.
To control costs, omelets, skillets, pancakes, and sandwiches aren’t made to order. What you see on the menu is what you get. “It helps us prep and keeps our pricing affordable,” Iris said. w
But they do offer build-your-own biscuit options. Basic biscuits are offered with scrambled egg and cheddar cheese. And you can add meat for a small upcharge.
Iris wants folks to know, “We serve good old breakfast food all day, with a great family atmosphere.”
The Skillet is Iris Hubbard’s second restaurant in Kings Mountain, along with 133 West.

Screen shot 2023 08 10 at 9.37.57 am — Margo Plonk of Albemarle Lithium verifies paperwork as she pulls it for a visitor. See more photos on page 5A. Photo by Loretta Cozart

732 families benefit from OTC giveaway, Albemarle Lithium played a key role

By Loretta Cozart

The morning started early for volunteers and corporate sponsors for the free over-the-counter medicine giveaway by NC MedAssist on Friday, August 4, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kings Mountain.
Volunteers met the day before to prepare 512 pre-orders. Items were sorted, bags filled and alphabetized, and tables set for Friday’s event. Despite all the early work, the group gathered early again the next morning, some with coffee in hand, and with smiles on their faces for what the day would bring.
Workers stayed busy, from when the doors opened until closing time. Everyone worked diligently to fill orders, answer questions, and serve those who attended the event. It was a wonderful day for the citizens of Kings Mountain. By day’s end, another 220 bags had been filled for those who walked in, with a total count of 732 families benefiting from the efforts of all involved.
The event was sponsored by Albemarle Lithium and supported by community partners: The Davidson Association, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, NC Department of Insurance, City of Kings Mountain, WNCAP, and Patrick Senior Center.
NC MedAssist provides OTC medications at no charge to everyone through Mobile Free Pharmacy events such as this one. They are also a nonprofit pharmacy providing access to prescription medications to qualified uninsured North Carolina residents.

School orientation
meeting schedule

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain and Grover schools hold orientation meetings on Thursday, August 10, at various times depending upon the school. Middle School student orientation is on August 14. Students return to the classroom on Wednesday, August 16. Below is a list of schools, meeting times, and details.
Elementary Schools:
• Bethware Elementary School, at 115 Bethware Drive, has its back-to-school orientation and Title I Annual Public Meeting on Thursday, August 10, from 3 – 6 p.m. for Pre-k – 4 grades. Parents and students will participate in a Buccaneer treasure hunt that takes
See SCHOOL, Page 7A
From Page 1A
them to their classrooms, and to stations sharing information on transportation, telehealth, car riders, etc.
• East Elementary School, at 600 N. Cleveland Ave, holds its drop-in back-to-school and orientation and Title I Annual Public Meeting on Thursday, August 10, from 4 – 6 p.m. Parents are asked to go to the cafeteria at 4 p.m. for the Title I Annual meeting, where they will receive information regarding their student’s classroom assignment. Kindergarten students meet in the gym for orientation. Grades 1-4 Meet and Greet sessions will be held in their assigned classrooms. Information on transportation, virtual health, etc., will be held in the gym.
• Grover Elementary School, at 206 Carolina Avenue, has its drop-in back-to-school and orientation and Title I Annual Public Meeting on Thursday, August 10, at 10 a.m., and again at 1 p.m. Parents are asked to go to the cafeteria for the Title I Annual meeting, where they will also receive information regarding classroom assignments, transportation, orientation, telehealth, etc.
• North Elementary School, at 900 Ramseur Street, meets for its back-to-school and orientation and Title I Annual Public Meeting on Thursday, August 10, at p.m. for all students, Pre-k through 4th grade. Class assignment letters will be mailed the first week of August.
• West Elementary School, at 500 W. Mountain Street, holds its Meet and Greet from 1 – 2 p.m. and again for a second session from 5 – 6 p.m. Two Title I Annual Public Meetings will be at 2 p.m. and again from 4:30 – 5 p.m.
• Pre-k parents will visit the gym for their required orientation.
• K-4 Meet and Greet sessions will be held in classrooms
• The Title I Annual Public Meeting will be held in the Media Center.
Intermediate School:
Kings Mountain Intermediate School, at 227 Kings Mountain Boulevard, has a Drop-in Orientation and Title I Annual Public Meeting scheduled for 5th and 6th graders on August 10 from 3 – 5 p.m. in the cafeteria. Parents should visit the gym for bus and car rider information.
Middle School:
Kings Mountain Middle School, at 1000 Phifer Road, has an orientation for 7th and 8th graders on August 14 at 1:30, or 5:30 p.m. Orientation lasts one hour. Parents should enter the front of the school and proceed to the gym. From there, parents will be dispersed to classrooms.
High School:
Kings Mountain High School, at 500 Phifer Road, has its orientation on August 10. Ninth graders meet in the auditorium from 5:30 – 8 p.m. Grades 10 – 12 attend a drop-in orientation from 1 – 3 p.m.

Screen shot 2023 08 10 at 9.37.50 am — Sign up to enter your golf cart in the BeachBlast Golf Cart Parade. (Photo provided)

Golf Cart Parade added
to BeachBlast Festival

The Sights and Sounds of the Beach would not be the same in Downtown Kings Mountain without a Golf Cart Parade.
Golf Cart Parades are all the rage at the beach. The City of Kings Mountain’s Marketing, Tourism and Events Department is adding this fun addition to the 2023 NC BeachBlast Festival, to be held on August 19, and they want you to participate.
Make plans to register your golf cart for the parade by sending an e-mail to specialevents@cityofkm.com. Registration is free.
The Golf Cart Parade will line up Saturday, August 19, at West Elementary. Golf Carts must be lined up and ready to roll by 2:00 pm. West Elementary is located at 500 West Mountain Street, Kings Mountain.
Requirements for this parade are:
1. Golf Carts must be insured.
2. Operators must have a valid Driver’s License.
3. Golf Carts must be decorated with family-friendly beach-themed decorations.
For more information, call the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101 or visit their website at www.kingsmountainevents/nc-beachblast-festival.

Beware of individuals claiming to be with CCS

By Loretta Cozart

On Friday evening, August 4, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office was told of suspicious individuals visiting homes and claiming to be affiliated with the Cleveland County Schools.
They issued the following warning, “Please be vigilant and cautious if anyone ever comes to your doorstep representing themselves as school personnel, especially if you find their behavior or intentions suspicious. We strongly encourage you to contact your local law enforcement immediately. The safety of your children is of the utmost importance, and we want to ensure that everyone feels secure in your neighborhood and homes.”

Registration for afterschool care
at North and Bethware
is now open

Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County (B&GCCC) opened registration for afterschool care on Tuesday, August 1. During the school year, B&GCCC provides afterschool activities at two Kings Mountain Elementary Schools: Bethware and North, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Registration is $25. The weekly fee is $30. Full or partial scholarships are available for those with demonstrated financial needs.
If seating is available on school buses, B&GCCC may offer transportation from other KM elementary schools to the Bethware and North sites.
Historically, there are 25-30 kids each day at each site. To register visit www.bgccleveco.org.
The mission of Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County to enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Club provides a safe place to learn and grow, build ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals, have life-enhancing and character development experiences, and develop a feeling of hope and opportunity. They support the BGCA National Youth Outcome Initiative, which focuses on three life-changing goals for every child: academic success, good character and citizenship, and a healthy lifestyle. They give youth the resources and support they need to do well in school, make healthy choices, and become great citizens.
Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County is a not-for-profit organization. Their annual budget is currently more than $650,000. Revenues include support from United Way, private foundations, federal and state grants, corporate and individual donations, and annual fundraisers. A small portion comes from membership dues we charge to participants, but this is not a large part of their funds.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.26.25 am — Chief Childress

Chat with Chief

By Loretta Cozart

Chief Childress from Kings Mountain Police Department invites residents of the Linwood & Northwoods communities to join him for an informal meet and greet session on Monday, August 7, from 6:30 pm-8 pm at People Baptist Church at 1010 Groves St. Kings Mountain.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.26.19 am — Jim Palenick City Manager

Coffee & Conversation
with the city manager

By Loretta Cozart

Mark your calendar for City of Kings Mountain’s Coffee & Conversation with City Manager Jim Palenick from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, August 18, at Chat-n-Nibble Restaurant at 415 N Piedmont Ave. in Kings Mountain.
If you are interested in what’s going on in Kings Mountain or have questions you would like to ask, meet the new city manager to start a conversation.
Next month, Coffee & Conversation will be held Friday, September 15, at Kings Mountain Family YMCA at 211 Cleveland Ave.

NC BeachBlast Festival
returns Aug. 18 and 19

The City of Kings Mountain brings the Beach back to downtown as the NC Beach Blast Festival comes to Patriots Park Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19!
Presented by Carolina Power Partners, the festival blasts off Friday, August 18 at 6:00 p.m. with DJ Eric Bowman, followed by Too Much Sylvia at 6:30 pm.
On Saturday, August 19 at 10:00 a.m., enjoy a full day of music and family fun with DJ Johnny B and four of the hottest Carolina Beach Music bands in the Southeast – Jim Quick and Coastline, Cat5, Swingin’ Medallions, and Band of Oz.
Vendors will be on hand with great food and beverages, and beginning at 12:00 p.m., Festival goers can shop till they drop on the Boardwalk Vendor Row with over 50 vendors!
There is fun for the whole family – with inflatables, games, the Rotary Splash Pad, Water Wars, watermelon eating, hula hoop, Beach Party costume contests, the big beach ball drop, pirates, mermaids, and an all-new BeachBlast Golf Cart Parade.
To register for the golf cart parade, please call 704-730-2101. We look forward to seeing you at the 2023 NC BeachBlast Festival. For more information, go to kingsmountainevents.com/nc-beachblast-festival.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.24.46 am — Too Much Sylvia plays Friday, August 18 at 6:30 p.m. Photos provided

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.24.51 am — Jim Quick and Coastline play Saturday at morning at 10 a.m.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.24.58 am — Cat5 Band keeps the music flowing at 1 p.m.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.25.02 am — Swingin’ Medallions go on stage Saturday at 4 p.m.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.25.08 am — Band of Oz plays at Patriots Park on Saturday at 7 p.m.

How to enroll your student in Cleveland County Schools

New students or incoming kindergartners residing in the Cleveland County Schools district should present an official birth certificate, not the hospital's birth record, and a certificate showing that the student has received the required immunizations.
Transferring students should also provide a previous year’s transcript or report card to document grade placement.
Kindergartners should pass a physical examination - a physician's signature is required on a form provided by the school system. Kindergartners must be five years old on or before the first day of school of the year they will enter school. If a child is homeless or is identified as being homeless, he or she shall be immediately enrolled in and allowed to attend school, even if the child or his or her parents cannot produce such records.
In addition, parents must show proof of residency, like a lease or real estate document, or a power bill.
North Carolina law requires every child to be immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, red measles (rubeola), rubella, and (German measles). Children under five must be immunized against Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib), and a Hepatitis B vaccine is required for children born on or after July 1, 1994.
Parents can enroll their student online by visiting clevelandcountyschools.org, clicking on Join Team CCS, and scrolling down to Enrollment. Spanish and English applications are available online.

Screen shot 2023 08 03 at 8.25.28 am — Country artist Chris Lane says ‘Howdy’ to Cleveland County

Country artist Chris Lane says ‘Howdy’ to Cleveland County

Country artist Chris Lane will headline the music portion of the 9th Annual 7th Inning Stretch Festival Saturday, Aug. 5, in Uptown Shelby. A native of Kernersville, N.C., Lane learned to play guitar after sports injuries led him to curtail his ambition of playing professional baseball.
The singer/songwriter’s debut single “Broken Windshield View,” released in 2014, sold 11,000 downloads in its first week and reached No. 45 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His debut album, “Girl Problems,” included the singles “Fix,” his first No. 1, and “For Her.” “Fix”
and “Big, Big Plans” went platinum and “I Don’t Know About You” went triple platinum.
Fans on Court Square will also be listening for “Howdy,” “Stop Coming Over,” “Ain’t Even Met You Yet” and “Fill Them Boots.” Off course they hope to hear “Big, Big Plans,” the song he composed to accompany his proposal to his now-wife Lauren Bushnell. The couple married in 2019 and have two sons.
Lane has been nominated for an iHeart Radio Music Award, an ACM Award, Radio Disney Music Award, and a Canadian Country Music Association Award for “Tailgate to Heaven” with Shawn Austin. Other notable collaborations are “Small Town on It” with Scotty McCreery, “Tequila on a Boat” with Dustin Lynch, and more recently “Dancin’ in the Moonlight” with Lauren Alaina.
On his way to Shelby, Lane will perform in Chicago with Darius Rucker, Jo Dee Messina, Jackson Dean and Drew Green, followed by a performance in Mount Pleasant, Mich., with Kane Brown and Restless Road.
Opening for Lane at 7:00 PM will be singer/songwriter/guitarist Greylan James, a Knoxville native now living in Nashville. In 2018, James was ranked one of the best guitarists in the world under 21 by Guitar Center Magazine’s Brotherhood of the Guitar 100.
James’ songs have been recorded by Chris Young, Blake Shelton, Chris Janson, and Kenny Chesney, whose recording of “Happy Does” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. James is currently playing the No Bad Vibes Tour with Old Dominion, Frank Ray, and Kassi Ashton. His recording of his song
“2 Years Back” is receiving a lot of play on SiriusXM The Highway and he is named a Highway Find, a recognition that carries weight with country music fans.
“We believe we’ve hit another home run with this entertainment lineup,” says Eddie Holbrook, chairman of the local ALWS committee. “When we say thanks to the community for its support of the ALWS, we say it in a big way.”
Music, games, a circus, and just plain fun will lead off the day in Uptown Shelby at 3:00 PM. The 7th Inning Stretch Festival is the opening event for the 2023 American Legion World Series (ALWS), scheduled for Aug. 10-15 at Shelby High School’s Keeter Stadium. For information about the national baseball tournament, visit www.americanlegionworldseries.com. For more information on the 7th Inning Stretch Festival, visit www.7thinningstretch.cc or follow the Festival on Facebook. All entertainment is free; food, beverages, and trinkets must be purchased.
Uptown restaurants and stores will be open most of the day.

IMC – Metals America
plans major expansions

Prime Materials Recovery, Inc. announces contracting an SCR 4500 copper rod system from the Southwire Company for installation at its subsidiary, IMC – Metals America, LLC in Shelby, NC. This new line will be installed in a purpose-built plant at the existing site, marking PMR/IMCs entry into the ETP copper rod market.
   In a separate initiative, IMC will also increase OF copper rod production capacity by purchasing and installing a new line from Upcast OY based in Pori, Finland.
“We are extremely pleased to be partnering with industry leaders like Southwire and Upcast OY with these initiatives. We look forward to these successful projects and years of effectively serving our customers and these markets,” said Bernie Schilberg, CEO of Prime Materials Recovery.
Sitework is expected to begin in the 3rd quarter of 2023 and will bring 75-80
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new jobs to Cleveland County, North Carolina.
   PMR and PMH are among the largest nonferrous and polymer merchants, processors, and fabricators in the United States. Headquartered in East Hartford, CT, the companies operate state-of-the-art facilities in Canastota, NY; South Windsor, CT; Willimantic, CT; Jersey City, NJ; Hickory, NC; Shelby, NC; Orangeburg, SC; Miami, FL; and Wilmington, DE.
   IMC – Metals America, LLC is one of North America’s largest producers of Oxygen-free copper rods and produces copper anodes servicing various electroplating applications.

Screen shot 2023 07 27 at 10.11.49 am — Madalina Cojocari

Missing Madalina Cojocari brings child exploitation
to our doorsteps

By Loretta Cozart

On November 23, 2022, Madalina Cojocari was last seen getting off her school bus in Cornelius. She didn’t return to school and her parents did not report her missing for about a month, until December 15. They have since been charged with failure to report their missing child.
This story of this missing Cornelius girl brings the reality of exploited children to our doorsteps. Last week, unsealed search warrants revealed the young girl was likely spotted on surveillance videos in Beach Mountain, NC on December 16, the day after her parents reported her missing.
Madalina is now 12-years old, and she is not the only missing child from our area. A prominent case in Cleveland County is the story of Asha Degree, the 9-year-old Shelby girl who disappeared in 2000. But there are more children missing. On October 11, 2022, Kamiya Hunt went missing in Shelby. And Jontrey Thompson of Belmont disappeared on December 1, 2022. In the United States, each year there are more than 400,000 children reported missing.
According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, since it was formed , 2,050 cases have been reported in NC. Of those, 5,986 victims were identified. In 2021 alone, 223 cases were reported, and 340 victims were involved. Cases can involve multiple victims.
According to NC Center for Missing Persons, in Cleveland County there are currently 168 missing persons reported. Of those, 111 are juveniles and 57 are adults. The report does not show active cases, just cases reported.
As of July 23, the NC Center for missing persons reports the total of missing persons across our state of 8,605. Of those, 7,928 cases have been closed. And of those 7,928 cases reported, 5,495 involved juveniles. There are now 677 active cases of missing persons across the state, but those numbers are not broken down by age.
   Here are the numbers of reported missing juveniles in NC between 2015 and 2022:
• 2022     9,039
• 2021     8,419
• 2020   9,135
• 2019   9,204
• 2018    9,142
• 2017   10,684
• 2016   10,575
• 2015   10,475
The N.C. Center for Missing Persons serves as the clearinghouse for information regarding missing children and adults; and since its creation in 1985, the Center has worked with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to assist in locating missing persons and reunite them with their families.
If a child is missing, family and friends should immediately notify local law enforcement. If a child is abducted, time is valuable.
Go to The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children more tips on what to do if your child is missing.
• File a police or sheriff’s report. Include information on where the child was last known to be, as well as names of the individual’s family and friends.
• Provide officers with a recent photo as soon as possible. Law enforcement can immediately enter child abduction cases into the FBI’s National Crime Information Center. The center allows officers nationwide to share information about endangered children, increasing the chance that the child will be found.
• Request that law enforcement put out a Be On the Look Out (BOLO) Bulletin.
• Ask for an organized search with the use of tracking dogs if possible.
• Limit access to your home until law enforcement investigators arrive and have collected evidence. Do not touch or remove anything from your child’s room or your home. There may be clues to the whereabouts of your child.
• Give the investigator all facts and circumstances related to disappearance including what efforts have already been made.
• Write a detailed description of clothing worn by the child and any personal items your child had at the time of his or her disappearance. Note any birthmarks, scars, tattoos, or mannerisms, and supply any photo that may show the marks. Give this information to the investigator.
• Make copies of recent photos for law enforcement, news media, the N.C. Center for Missing Persons, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and any volunteer groups aiding in the search.
• Designate one person to answer your telephone. Keep a pad of paper by the phone to jot down names, telephone numbers, date and time of calls and the purpose of the call. You may want to get law enforcement to put a tracer on your phone and get an answering machine that will tape calls. You may also want to add a caller ID. If you do not have a cell phone, you may want to get one so that you can be reached at any time. For cases that are older than 30 days, help officers locate dental and medical records.
Be aware of goings on in the community. Have you noticed a homeless child or a child asking for food or showing signs of abuse? Have you noticed odd behaviors between a child and an adult? If you see something, say something. Contact local law enforcement and let them investigate. It only takes one person to notice and make that call.

Rezoning requested for
property near El Bethel Road

During the regular city council meeting on July 25, councilmembers considered scheduling a Public Meeting for Tuesday, August 29, at 6:00 p.m. to consider a rezoning request from Phil Dee/Dee Properties, LLC consisting of 17.62 acres located at and near 2015 Shelby Road from Suburban Commercial (SC) and Suburban Residential (SR) to Mixed Use (MU). The property is located between Scism and Son Paint Shop and El Bethel Road.

Screen shot 2023 07 13 at 9.45.52 am — Bailey Binsted

Missing Gaston County teen

Gaston County Police are searching for Bailey Binsted. She was last seen on June 28, at her DSS Group/Foster home located in the 1300 block of Crowders Mountain Rd. in Gastonia. Bailey is in DSS custody, and she left the group home shortly after learning she was being sent to another foster/group home soon. Bailey may be staying in the Lincoln County area with family members.
Bailey was last seen wearing a brown shirt and tan shorts. She is described as a white female, 15 years old, 5ft 4in tall, 130 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes.
If you have seen Bailey or have any information on her whereabouts, please contact the Gaston County Police Department, Det. R.C. Cogdill, or call 911.

Challengers emerge in three municipal races

By Loretta Cozart

Candidate filing for the Kings Mountain municipal elections on November 7, ended Friday, July 21, at noon. Nine candidates filed to run. Both Annie Thombs in Ward 1, and Jimmy West in Ward 4 are running unopposed.
Four challengers have emerged in three key municipal races. For mayor, incumbent Scott Neisler is running against newcomer Rob Wagman.
In Ward 5, Woody Edwards and Mark Wampler are challenging incumbent Jay Rhodes. And Shearra Miller is challenging incumbent Keith Miller for the seat of City Council Member At-Large.
The Kings Mountain City Council is a seven-member board and includes three members with unexpired terms. They are Mike Butler, Ward 2, Tommy Hawkins, Ward 3; and At-Large Councilman David Allen.
In Town of Grover, Mayor Pro Tem Tony L. Willis, Sr. is running unopposed for mayor. Vying for the two open seats are incumbents Richard D. Smith and Bill Willis, along with newcomers Dylan Emory, and Thor Inman.
In Town of Waco, incumbents are running unopposed. John E. (Butch) Barrett, Jr is running for Mayor, Mike Scism, Pete Sauls, and Chester R. Haynes are running for Aldermen.
The race for Cleveland County Water Board Commissioner has six candidates filing. Incumbents Bill Cameron, Dewey C. Cook, Tony M. Brooks, and Bruce Martin are running with newcomers Pamela Parker Maddox and James D. Bundy.

CCS Back-to-School
Book Bash July 27

By Loretta Cozart

Cleveland County Schools Back-to-School Book Bash, presented by Shelby Breakfast Rotary Club is Thursday, July 27, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the District Office at 400 W. Marion Street in Shelby. The first day of school for Cleveland County is August 16, just three weeks away.
The Shelby Breakfast Rotary Club announced on their Facebook page, “July 27 - celebrate with us! In partnership with Cleveland County Schools, Shelby Breakfast Rotary Club is throwing a full-on block party! Enjoy live music, free hot dogs, bouncy houses, free books and school supplies for kids, display, information booths, and more.

Screen shot 2023 07 27 at 10.29.09 am — TIM MOORE House Speaker

Legislators discussing
four new casinos in NC

By Loretta Cozart

Last week, WRAL news obtained a draft bill that would award one company rights to develop three casinos in NC as part of a $1.5 billion dollar investment in the state. The Lumbee Tribe would manage a fourth casino, according to Legislators, even though they currently do not have federal recognition giving them the ability to do so.
The Lumbee Fairness Act was introduced by Senator Tom Tillis in February of this year, and it still awaits federal recognition.
The proposed bill, which was made public by WRAL states, “There is established the Rural Tourism Incentive Program to be administered by the Secretary of Commerce. The purpose of the program is to encourage and promote tourism in rural counties on the State border and along major transportation corridors.
“The program will allow for Gaming, which is a new and expanding component of the tourism industry and is currently allowed in North Carolina on certain Indian lands. As many contiguous states allow gaming, those industry business opportunities and employment opportunities are being lost to the state.”
In addition to the $1.5 billion dollar investment the three casinos would bring the state, applying companies must also invest at least five hundred million dollars in each district. And to be considered, applying companies must also pay a proposal fee of $25,000,000. If an applicant is accepted, their deposit will be credited to the excise tax applicable to that business. If a company is denied, the fee will be refunded.
On Thursday, July 20, Senator Phil Berger said Chamber leaders continue to talk about whether they should permit casinos on non-tribal lands, authorize, and regulate video gambling machines, or both. When asked the odds of a bill reaching Gov. Roy Cooper’s desk, Berger replied, “I’d say better than 50-50. It's a serious discussion.”
According to WRAL, House Speaker Tim Moore told reporters that the casinos would be in Anson, Nash, and Rockingham counties, with a fourth casino being run by the Lumbee Tribe in the southeastern part of the state even if the tribe does not get its long-sought federal recognition.
Coincidentally, a Baltimore developer has already asked for rezoning 192-acres in Rockingham County, the home county of Senator Phil Berger, before the bill being discussed has even gone through both state legislative chambers.
NC Development Holdings has the same North Carolina address as Baltimore based The Cordish Companies. That company has ten business lines, including casinos which are managed by Joseph Weinberg, Managing Partner, and CEO of Cordish Gaming Group. Weinberg is also listed as NC Development Holdings’ Principal’s Authorized Representative
The Cordish Companies’ other business lines include commercial real estate, entertainment districts, gaming, hotels, restaurants, sports anchored districts, co-working spaces, international development, private equity, and residential.

Pickin' at the Park at
KM Patriot's Park
Thursday evening

Pickin’ at the Park will be held each Thursday starting at 6 pm. All pickers are welcome, so dust off that banjo (guitar, fiddle, or mandolin) and join other musicians for some fun on Thursday evening. This is a free event. If you don’t play and instrument but enjoy acoustic music, feel free to bring a chair and listen. For more information on Pickin’ At The Park, contact the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or the Cleveland County Music Hall of Fame at 704-860-4068.
Photo by Angela Padgett

Bolin’s Day Care
under new ownership

By Loretta Cozart

Jeff and Kelly Bolin reached out to the Herald last week sharing news that on Friday morning they had sold Bolin’s Daycare at 901 Ramseur Street. The new owners are Tyler and Jessica Fletcher, and Woody Edwards, owners of Ronald’s Garage.
But Kelly won’t be stepping away just yet. “Well, I am going to be here for another year as the Director. I’m going to give them a year’s worth of experience, whatever they need,” she said. “The decision is bittersweet, but I feel now that the time is right.”
Tyler Fletcher’s stepdaughter has spent many years enrolled at Bolin’s Day Care, so the family is familiar with the business. This is their first day care, so they asked Kelly to stay on for a year in the transition.
“Whatever they do, I know it is going to be an improvement,” Kelly said. “I'm excited to see those because that's why we've hung in there for so long. We had to trust that the buyers are good people and that they plan to keep things going.”
Kelly has worked in the daycare for 33 ½ years, with Jeff having just a little less time working there. But for Jeff, Bolin’s Day Care has always been a part of his life; he has never known a day, until last Friday, that his family didn’t own the business.
In 1970, Barbara Ellen Bolin and her husband, Herman, lived two blocks away at 705 Ramseur Street. They had just completed construction of their new home on Cansler Street and decided to open a daycare in the basement. They had three children: Cindy, David, and Jeff. Jeff was just a year old.
Eventually, the Bolin's business outgrew their space, so they moved the daycare back to their house on Ramseur Street. In 1978, the Bolin’s bought the current property across from North School and built a facility that accommodates 98 students. The 74 Bypass took their property, and they needed a new location. Eventually, Jeff and Kelly bought the daycare from Barbara.
Bolin’s Day Care is well known for keeping traditions, like hot dog and chili day on Friday. When asked about the chili recipe during their 50th anniversary celebration, Jeff almost disclosed the recipe. Kelly quickly interrupted and explained, “it is a highly classified.” It was not disclosed if the chili
recipe was included in the sale.

The Fun Factory comes to Patriots Park July 19

Join CJ and Fidget for The Fun Factory, in Patriots Park, 220 S. Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain on Wednesday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for this family friendly event.
This interactive program reminds us that when we work together, anything is possible! Young readers will help an incredible factory come to life as gears turn, games unfold, and toilet paper goes flying through the air!
This high-speed show is guaranteed to capture attention with lots of music, interactive play, and a valuable lesson that audiences are guaranteed to remember; that we are strongest when we work together!The Fun Factory is presented by Sigmon Theatrical and hosted by Mauney Memorial Library.

July 29 at KM Historical Museum
The Catawba and the
American Revolution

Join Catawba Archivist Mr. Ensley Guffey as he presents a deeper look into the Catawba People and their participation and involvement in the American Revolution.
This free event is Saturday, July 29, at 1 p.m. at Kings Mountain Historical Museum. Visit the museum’s website to reserve your seat for this event.
Ensley F. Guffey has completed his AA, BA, an MA in History, and an MLIS. Since 2020, Ensley has been the tribal archivist for the Catawba Indian Nation, working out of the Catawba Nation Archives in the Catawba Cultural Center on the Old Reservation outside of Rock Hill, South Carolina. There he cares for a multi-media collection including everything from documents to pottery to projectile points to traditional regalia to audio and video on a variety of formats.

Screen shot 2023 07 13 at 9.45.22 am — Captain Jody Seagle

Sheriff’s Deputy Seagle ambushed

At approximately 8 a.m., on Monday, July 10, Capt. Jody Seagle of Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office was ambushed on Curt Ledford Road, near Lawndale, by a man who struck him from behind with a metal bar when the deputy stopped to investigate a suspicious vehicle.
During a press conference, Sheriff Alan Norman said, “It’s just senseless, totally senseless. (It was) an attack that came out of nowhere. Before he struck Deputy Seagal, he knew that he was a law enforcement officer.”
The sheriff described this as an unprovoked, vicious assault. The deputy was in route to work when he noticed an abandoned, suspicious vehicle. When he exited his vehicle, the deputy was attacked from behind and assaulted with a piece of metal bar. “It is our desire to have this individual in custody and off the streets,” he said.
“The deputy fired upon the vehicle when he feared the driver would back over him,” the sheriff explained. “It goes to show that he (the attacker) has no regard for the safety and welfare of any individual in North Carolina, or anywhere there is that he is at,” Norman said. Capt. Jody Seagle was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect is a white male, over 6 feet tall, believed to have a full-sleeve tattoos and a possible left-side neck tattoo. He was wearing work boots, black shorts, and a white T-shirt. The suspect vehicle was a beige or tan 4-door Buick, with a square front end. The driver’s side door may have bullet holes.
If you know anything about this incident, please contact Cleveland County Communications Center with information at 704-484-4822.

“Liberty Mountain”
local audition dates
for 2023 season

Auditions for the upcoming fall season of “Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama” will be held on July 22 at the Joy Performance Center in downtown Kings Mountain at 6:30 p.m. Auditions and interviews will be held for paid roles available for onstage and offstage positions, with the company seeking professional, local, and student talent. The production will be directed by Caleb Ryan Sigmon and is written by former WBTV news anchor Robert Inman.
Performers will be expected to memorize and perform a 60-second monologue of their choice along with an optional 16-bar musical audition. Those acting and singing will be given 90-seconds. They are also seeking musicians – those wishing to play an instrument should prepare a 60-second selection to showcase their musical talent. They are seeking top-notch talent from across the Southeast. Company housing is available for out-of-town performers.
Rehearsals will begin on September 1, with performances running on select dates, September 15 through October 8.
“Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama” tells the epic true story of the Battle of Kings Mountain, that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War in October of 1780. The show features state-of-the-art
projection technology, live music, epic battle scenes, and other special effects that bring the story of the founding of our nation to life in immersive and thrilling ways.
Anyone wishing to audition may email material in advance to caleb@sigmontheatrical.com. Virtual auditions are also being accepted for those unable to attend in person. Please send an updated resume and headshot along with your email. Learn more about the production and apply today: www.libertymountaindrama.com.

Enjoying the day at
KM Farmers' Market

Last Saturday, this family enjoyed a wonderful day at the downtown Kings Mountain Farmers’ Market. The market is open every Saturday through August, from 8 a.m. to noon. Enjoy fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, and locally sourced products and merchandise that supports farmers and merchants in our area.

Photo by Loretta Cozart

Candidate filing gets underway Friday
5 City Council seats up for grabs

Four-year terms of four City Council members and the mayor are expiring November 7, 2023, and their seats are among 47 seats up for grabs in 13 municipalities in Cleveland County and the Cleveland County Water Board.
Candidate filing begins Friday, July 7 at 9 a.m. at the Cleveland County Board of Elections, 215 Patton Drive, Shelby, and ends at noon Friday, July 21.
Kings Mountain incumbents are Scott Neisler, Mayor and Council members Annie Thombs, Ward I; Jimmy West, Ward 4; Jay Rhodes, Ward 5; and Keith Miller, At-Large.
In Grover, the mayor and two town commissioners are incumbents. They are Roy Dyer, Mayor, and town commissioners Bill Willis and Richard Smith.
Filing fee for Kings Mountain candidates is $60 for mayor and $35 for commissioners.
Filing fee for Grover’s candidates is $5.
The Kings Mountain Council is a seven-member board and includes three members with unexpired terms. They are Mike Butler, Ward 2, Tommy Hawkins, Ward 3; and At-Large councilman David Allen.
The 2023 off-year election includes gubernatorial and legislative elections in a few states as well as mayoral races and other local offices.

City of KM pivots
on Project South

By Loretta Cozart

City Manager Jim Palenick announced that the City of Kings Mountain needs to pivot on Project South, now known as the Southwest Sanitary Sewer Regionalization Project, due to project estimates that are double the $39 M grant amount provided through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
“We have waited for a very long time to have 60 percent of the actual designs completed, and at that point the construction manager at risk was able to come forward and give us that guaranteed maximum price. We had been holding our breath and worried to see what that number would be. Unfortunately, that number on our $39 million dollar project came in at $84 million, so we have had to pivot and make a substantial change to the project,” Palenick said.
Typically, a design, bid, build process would have been used for a project such as this. However, the city opted for the construction manager at risk option. “It is quite unusual, but allowed,” Palenick said.
Originally the city contemplated building a 4 million gallon per day wastewater treatment plant and then connecting it to the Town of Grover, because the primary reason for the grant was to get Grover off their failing system. The new facility was to be managed by City of Kings Mountain.
Pivoting, the city now plans to build a large-scale pump station, pumping from Grover and some of the primary areas that are going to develop quickly in the next several years, primarily at Exit 5, like the Dixon Ridge and Catawba Ridge developments, and anything in the entertainment district near the casino.
As a result of the high quote, the city will not be able to build the new water treatment plant and some of the additional forced main areas that might not be served by development because of where the plant was located.
   “Our goal was always to build this plant with grant funds, otherwise we would place this burden on our rate bearers. We are solving another town’s problem, Grover, and developing new sanitary sewer capacity for new growth,” the city manager explained. “The good news (with this plan) is that Grover will be served sooner than they otherwise would have been. And because we would have been taking on a new water treatment plant, costing probably $500,000 to $600,00 per year to operate, we would have been subsidizing that plant initially for a very large amount of money. This answer is much better for the city financially for the first five to eight years.”
   Water Resource/ Moss Lake Director Rick Duncan shared with city council, “This has been Plan B for three years and is very well thought out. We were looking at a major lift station near Bethlehem Road that can pump straight to the treatment plant that we have now, or it could go to Long Branch. This is not a knee-jerk reaction to the high quote.”
   Palenick praised Duncan and his staff “for doing contingency planning throughout the process, looking at multiple opportunities. “This is a really good Plan B, so we pivoted to Plan B.”
   Since the city owns the land, that site could still become a water treatment plant in the future. But, for now, continuing that project is not an option.

City council approves contract with
Kings Mountain Forward, Inc.

By Loretta Cozart

During the June 27 City Council meeting for the City of Kings Mountain, members voted unanimously to enter a one-year contract with Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. for ongoing services in support of the Municipal Service District; the Downtown; and small business corridors within the City of Kings Mountain. The contract can be cancelled by either party with 120 days-notice. In addition, Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. would be granted alcohol sales for promotions after this season. The plan is for Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. to work closely with the city.
Prior to the vote, City Manager Jim Palenick explained to council that once the contract was finalized, MSD funds of $42,000 would be transferred to Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. for use only in the Municipal Service District. Additional funds of $75,000 would also be made available to the nonprofit, with some additional funds set as matching, contingent upon Kings Mountain Forward, Inc. raising $25,000 on its own.
Because Kings Mountain Forward, Inc.’s contract was approved, city council unanimously voted to repeal both the Amending the Downtown Development Incentive Grants Policy and Resolution 12-46, which establishes the Kings Mountain Main Street Advisory Board and dissolve the board.

NC BeachBlast Festival lineup announced

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain Special Events announced their lineup for the NC BeachBlast Festival on August 18 and 19 at Patriots Park, 220 South Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain, NC.
On Friday, August 18, Too Much Sylvia performs at 6 p.m. On Saturday, August 19, the musical lineup includes Jim Quick & Coastline at 10 a.m., Cat5 Band at 1 p.m., Swingin Medallions at 4 p.m., and Band of Oz at 7 p.m.
This event has become a fan favorite over the years, with guests traveling from all over the east coast to attend, being awarded as "Event of the Year" by Carolina Beach Music Awards, and now, it gets an even bigger name... BeachBlast is now the NC BeachBlast Festival!
Remember, only service animals with proper credentials are allowed in the park. No outside alcohol is allowed, and smoking and vaping are not permitted.
Join their team of incredible volunteers who truly make the magic happen. If you are interested in helping, the event staff can find something you’ll enjoy! For more information about volunteering, contact Susan Mosk at Susan.Mosk@CityofKM.com or call 704-734-2051.

Screen shot 2023 07 06 at 9.07.09 am — Band of Oz

Screen shot 2023 07 06 at 9.08.17 am — Swingin Medallions

Screen shot 2023 07 06 at 9.08.25 am — Cat5 Band

Screen shot 2023 07 06 at 9.08.32 am — Jim Quick & Coastline

Coffee & Conversation
with new city manager

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain invites citizens to coffee and conversation with City Manager Jim Palenick from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 14, at Big Red’s Café at 830 E King St. in Kings Mountain.
If you are interested in what’s going on in Kings Mountain or just have questions you would like to ask, meet the new city manager, and start a conversation.
The schedule for the next three month includes the following Kings Mountain locations:
• Friday, July 14 - Big Red’s Café, 830 E King St.
• Friday, August 18 -Chat-n-Nibble Restaurant, 415 N Piedmont Ave.
• Friday, September 15 - Kings Mountain Family YMCA, 211 Cleveland Ave.

Officer Pittman Sworn In

On Wednesday, June 28, Officer Cullen Pitman was issued his Oath of Office by Mayor Scott Neisler and sworn in as Kings Mountain Police Department's newest Police Officer. Please welcome Officer Pitman to Kings Mountain and congratulate him on his appointment.

Photo by KMPD

Screen shot 2023 06 21 at 3.56.11 pm — New Local, a band from Charlotte performs at 6:30 p.m. Photos by City of KM

Kings Mountain celebrates Independence Day July 1

Celebrate our nation’s independence, Saturday, July 1, as the City of Kings Mountain presents Revolutionary 4th! The city will produce this event in honor of our country on its 247th birthday.
Bring your family to
Patriots Park in Downtown for food trucks, games, and inflatables. DJ Tony Cutlass and Eric Bowman will MC the event from Liberty Falls Amphitheatre. The event starts at 6:00 pm. Charlotte’s own New Local will take the stage at 6:30 pm.
The City of Kings Mountain will present their signature, unrivaled fireworks display at 9:45 pm now seen from Patriots Park with music that syncs to your radio at 101.1 FM. Yes! You can now see fireworks from Patriots Park!
Fireworks can also be viewed from several other areas in the city centered Gold Street. See map on page 5A.
For more information on Revolutionary 4th, contact the City of Kings Mountain’s Special Events Department at 704-730-2101, or visit their website at www.KingsMountainEvents.Com. You may also visit their Facebook page at @cityofkmspecialevents.
See ad on page 8A.

Shuttle service available
for Revolutionary 4th

Heavy traffic is expected in downtown Kings Mountain, July 1, as the City of Kings Mountain hosts the Revolutionary 4th Celebration at Patriots Park
The city offers shuttle pick-up and drop-off services at the following locations:
• First Baptist Church-located at 605 West King Street, Kings Mountain
• Patrick Senior Center-located at 909 East Kings Street, Kings Mountain
• Parkdale Mill-located at 500 South Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain, a 10-minute walk to Patriots Park.
Shuttle Service will ONLY be offered to and from Patriots Park. Shuttle service will begin at 4:00 p.m. and end at 11:00 p.m.
The city urges patrons attending the event at Patriots Park to use the shuttle services as parking may be scarce downtown.
Motorists are urged to use extreme caution when traveling through Downtown Kings Mountain due to the increase in motor vehicles and pedestrians.

Revolutionary 4th
celebrations will impact travel Saturday, July 1

The City of Kings Mountain looks forward to the Revolutionary 4th celebration scheduled for July 1st, at Patriots Park. Many roads within the city will be impacted during this event including Battleground and Railroad Avenues, Cansler, Gold, and Mountain Streets Downtown, and Hwy 161/Cleveland Avenue and surrounding side streets.
The city advises citizens to “Use extreme caution when traveling these roads due to the increase in motor vehicles and pedestrians. Please plan to take different roads if you are impacted by this change. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.”

County passes budget with no tax increase

By Loretta Cozart

County commissioners passed the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget with no tax increase to residents. The current property tax rate of 54.75 cents per $100 valuation will remain the same, as will the 14 cents public school tax, and the 8.75 cents fire tax.
Total revenue in the General Fund is budgeted at $134.6 million, approximately a $9 million increase from the prior fiscal year. Most of this increase is associated with the consolidation of the rescue squads into Cleveland County Government along with increased debt funding for the Justice Center project. All revenue projections were established maintaining a 54.75 cent tax rate. The budget includes a 5% cost of living increase for county employees.
Seven new positions are being added to the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office that includes four new deputies, victim’s specialist, shooting range officer, and mechanic.
County Commissioners have identified several key initiatives specific to promoting and improving community wellness with the top being an intentional focus on actively engaging in the fight against the opioid epidemic. Included under the Community Wellness Focus Atea arc:
• Improvement in Community Health Rankings
• Effective Use of Opioid Settlement Funds
• Expansion of Existing Trail Systems & Exploration of New Opportunities
The county plans to re-engage its focus on community health and re-focus on improving metrics. Cleveland County remains outside the top 80 in County population health. The primary driver to that ranking remains premature death.
Chronic disease such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and substance abuse are among the leaders in the premature death category. Almost one-third of our county residents are diabetic or pre-diabetic. Our county's stroke rate is 80 per 100,000 (which is double the state average) and our overdose rankings are unproportionally high.
Cleveland County District Schools’ budget increased by $900,000 for teaching supplements, bringing the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget to $32.4 million.
Interim County Manager Todd Carpenter said the county is experiencing growth in population, property and sales tax, Jobs, housing, and industry.
The county also anticipates an additional $75,000 in revenue generated by Catawba Two Kings Casino.

Albemarle’s KM
Project Center
now open

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Project Center, located in historic Griffin Drug at 129 West Mountain Street, is a meeting and education center open to walk-in visitors who want to learn more about the proposed Kings Mountain Mine project, employment information, and potential community investment. It’s also home to the Albemarle Kings Mountain Community Affairs staff.
“We’ll be open Tuesday through Friday every week, and we plan to have evening and weekend hours every month also,” said Albemarle’s Community Affairs Manager, and Kings Mountain native, Kirsten Martin.
“We’ve held two board meetings already here at the Project Center for local nonprofits, and we have two more meetings on the schedule. So, if there are any small groups looking for a place to meet in the evenings, we have a space for up to 15 people.”
   The Project Center is designed to serve the community, providing information about the proposed mining activities, and informing the community of the latest happenings. Whether you stop by to watch their state-of-the-art mining videos on
their giant TV screens or want to team more about how lithium is a much-needed resource for renewable energy, their doors are open, and they want to meet you.
   Kirsten said, “We want to be accessible and transparent every step of the way. I am very excited about our new downtown Project Center and look forward to engaging directly with our community.”
   “We have the Project Center so anybody with questions can come to get answers. We want to make sure people know we’re here, we have a phone number, we have a website, we have a newsletter, and we have emails. We have many, many, different channels to contact us. If we have the answer, we’ll give it to you. If we don’t, we’ll tell you that, or that we’re we not sure yet and we will get back to you.”
   KM Project Center will hold its first mine tour on Thursday, June 22 from 2 – 4 p.m. Email Cynthia.Estridge@albemarle.com to register for the tour, which will be filled on a first come, first served basis. They will create a waitlist if they reach capacity.
   To learn more about Albemarle Kings Mountain, or to read their newsletter, The Element, visit www.albemarlekingsmountain.com or call (704) 734-2775.

Screen shot 2023 06 21 at 3.57.34 pm — City of Kings Mountain prepares for a fun, family friendly Revolutionary 4th at Patriots Park. Pictured L-R: Assistant Kings Mountain Police Chief Chris Moore, Chief Gerald Childress, and Marketing, Tourism, and Special Events Manager Susan Mosk. Photo by City of KM

Important info for attending
Revolutionary 4th celebration

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain Marketing, Tourism, and Special Events Manager Susan Mosk teamed up with Kings Mountain Police Chief Gerald Childress and Assistant Police Chief Chris Moore, to produce a fun video regarding the Revolutionary 4th event coming up on Saturday, July 1st.
The trio shared information regarding this
family friendly event, so prepare ahead. No alcohol will be allowed in the park for Saturday’s celebration. Also, no pets are allowed, except for service animals. If you bring a service animal, be sure to bring your paperwork to verify. If you can’t show the papers, you will be asked to leave the park. And, no personal fireworks are allowed, including sparklers. Finally, note that no smoking or vaping is allowed in the park for this event because lots of children will be in attendance.
To view the video, visit the City of Kings Mountain Special Events Facebook page. Mosk, Childress, and Moore did an excellent job making the video, so be sure to ask for their autographs when you see them.

Mountain Holiday reopens July 5

By Loretta Cozart

Mountain Holiday, at 110 West Mountain Street in Kings Mountain, will reopen for business on Wednesday, July 5 at 10 a.m.
After two months, Mountain Holiday 2.0, as employee Camryn King called it in the store’s Facebook announcement, will be open for business. The interior paneling, flooring and drywall have been replaced with brighter, updated finishes. The color is light grey, and the flooring complements the store’s many showcases and fixtures.
On May 2, the store suffered a flood, damaging the interior of the store. Many downtown merchants and business owners came out in support, helping quickly move inventory and fixtures to storage. Within the week, a new roof replaced the one that collapsed, and the interior restoration work began.
Now that the work is complete, staff is working hard to fill the store with brands the community has come to know and love like Byer’s Carolers, Jim Shore, Willow Tree, and Corinthian Bells, among many others. The Christmas Room, along with its iconic mantle, will once again bring Christmas to Kings Mountain year-round.

Screen shot 2023 06 21 at 4.13.07 pm — Crowds joined in the fun at Patriots Park last week. See more photos on page 5A. (Photo by Anne Gamble)

Mauney Memorial Library fun family events scheduled at Patriots Park

Throughout the month of June, Mauney Memorial Library has fun events scheduled for the entire family on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Patriots Park Amphitheatre, 220 S. Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain.
InterActive Theater with Jef Lambdin was held last week on June 14. Whether onstage or roving, Jef Lambdin is a quiet kind of guy. He juggles and balances things. He gets confused at times. He sometimes even forgets what his hat is for! During his show Wednesday, he involved the 135 audience members to help him when he was confused and to play along with his mime, mask, and variety arts shenanigans. He even led the group sing-a-longs.
On Wednesday, June 21, entertainer Mark Lippard brings his fast paced, high-energy performance full of laughs, juggling, trick unicycling, fire-eating, balance, and surprising fun-filled audience participation.
A full dinosaur dig is planned for Wednesday, June 28 for children six to 12-years old. Search sand pits for real shark teeth, dinosaur bones, and other fun items. At the event, you can get a dino balloon and face paint also.

Juneteenth celebration
to be held on June 24

By Loretta Cozart

Juneteenth is scheduled for Saturday June 24 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Deal Street Walking Track at 211 N. Cleveland Ave in Kings Mountain to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
“Juneteenth is open to everybody,” said event organizer Katherine Pendergrass. “I hope the community comes out and joins us in celebrating during this fun filled community event. We will also have a DJ playing music.”
Events include:
• 10:00 a.m. – Opening / Welcome/ History
• 11:00 a.m. – Puppet Show
• 12:00 a.m. – KUS Dance Group
• 1:00 p.m. - Todj Hunt
• 2:00 p.m. - Cornell Cranke
• 3:00 p.m. – More entertainment
**Times are subject to change
Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

Screen shot 2023 06 15 at 9.17.49 am — Jordan Mull won the Woman’s Club’s Sallie Southall Cotten Scholarship and will attend UNC-Chapel Hill. He is pictured with his uncle Vance Wilson (right). (Photo provided)

Jordan Mull receives GFWC
Woman’s Club scholarship

The winner of the GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club, the District 3 and the GFWC of NC state award is
Jordan Michael Mull, son of Mike and Nikki Mull, Grover, NC. Jordan won at the local, district and state levels to win the Sallie Southall Cotten Scholarship.
This scholarship is available to any student who will attend a 4-year university or college in the state of North Carolina. Sallie Southall Cotten (June 13, 1846 – May 4, 1929) was an American writer and clubwoman, based in North Carolina. She helped to organize the North Carolina Federation of Women’s Clubs. She was the organization’s fifth president, and wrote the federation’s anthem, as well as a history of the federation.
Jordan graduated from Kings Mountain High School, where he was president of the Math Club and secretary of the National Honor Society. He also has been a volunteer at the Patrick Senior Center, a math tutor, and has received the AP Scholar with Distinction award. Jordan plans to major in mathematics and philosophy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and then attend graduate school.
The Women’s club shared, “The GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club is proud to have this young man representing our club and community. He is an outstanding example of a young person with determination, intelligence and a heart for the community. We are excited to see what his future holds.”

Rolling Ribbon Cutting for downtown
businesses to be held on June 21

By Loretta Cozart

Three downtown businesses will hold a Rolling Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, June 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. On Q Financial – The Ingle Team kicks off the event at 129 S. Battleground Avenue at 10:30 a.m., followed by Brittany Austin and Co Huitt Realty at 11 a.m. at 144 S. Battleground Ave. The final ribbing cutting will be at The Imperial Mercantile at 138 W. Mountain Street at 11:30 a.m.
The community is invited to celebrate with these new businesses and welcome them to the community.

City council approves $65,079,820 budget

By Loretta Cozart

On Thursday, June 8, Kings Mountain City Council approved the city manager's proposed FY 2023-2024 budget of $65,079,820, an increase of $11,174,987 from last year during a monthly work session. That budget was explained to the council and the community in detail during their Monday, May 22, meeting at city hall.
   The proposed budget includes:
• A 5-cent property tax increase.
• A 10% increase in water and sewer.
• A solid waste fee increases of $2.49.
• A stormwater fee increases of $1.50.
   There were no increases in electricity or natural gas.
The new rate of 48 cents is moderate compared with that of other municipalities of comparable size to Kings Mountain that, include Lincolnton: 56 cents, Newton: 54- cents; Morganton: 57-cents; Albemarle: 64-cents, and Lexington: 65-cents, for an average property tax rate of .59-cents.
The budget also includes $1.8 million for paving and road improvements. "Thirty-five streets will be paved throughout the city," Palenick said. "And, $100,000 is included for parks and recreation capital improvements. A five percent wage increase has also been set aside for city employees included in the budget."
How does that translate to the average citizen's monthly budget? For a person who owns a $100,000 house, the city estimates the increase to be $12.79 per month. For a $200,000 home, the additional cost is estimated to be $17.51 per month. And for a $400,000 house, citizens will see an increase to $26.40 per month.
Mayor Neisler suggested a different path, suggesting instead that $1M be taken from the Economic Development Fund, suggesting that only one fire truck be purchased this year and that the city pave fewer streets to make up the difference and not raise property taxes this year.
Mayor Pro-Tem Annie Thombs offered her opinion, saying, "Mayor, the comments I want to make are going in the opposite direction of what you just stated. Looking at this budget, it is perhaps one of the hardest decisions I've had to consider while serving on the city council."
   "Perception is one thing, but when you get information that we have been given concerning investment within our city so that we are able to deliver great services without having leaf trucks breaking down, without dump trucks not moving, without city staff being out cutting the grass and the lawn mower stops and they’ve got to wait two days to get it fixed before they can come back and finish cutting grass, we have neglected maintenance. We have neglected our rolling stock. We have neglected things that should have been addressed, had we known that they needed to be addressed. I see this budget as, in Mr. Green used Words, as being very 'pivotal,'" she continued.
   "Number one, we need to set a different standard. And we can't continue like we have been going and expect a different outcome. Inflation continues to rise. If we put it off and wait, it's going to cost us more. It's hard when you think of all the citizens; it's not an easy decision. But at the same time, we have to look at what's best for the city.
   "And I think, as David (Stone) alluded to, this is not a political decision for me. This is what's best for this city. And if it's a hill I have to die on, I just die on the hill. At least I will have made a decision to set a different standard for this city and set a budget, so those that come behind us will have a standard to follow. And if they choose to do something different, then again, the citizens will be able to see what really works and what doesn't work. What really makes sense and what doesn't make sense."
   "Yes, it's going to be hard on our citizenry, to a point. But years down the road, they'll be able to look back and be glad of the decision we made. And when we look at it, we are a city that must maintain our public utilities because we own our public utilities to maintain, sustain, and provide growth, and that is a delicate balancing act. And I think this budget is beginning to address that balancing act because when I first looked at it (the budget), I had the reaction, "Nowhere in the world am I going to pass 5 cents. Because I just couldn't see a five-cent increase," she explained.
   "But when we had the last budget session, and he (City Manager Jim Palenick) gave us the options that we have available to us. And when he so clearly pointed out why we needed to have this increase, all of the speech I had prepared just flew out the window. Because I looked at this and I said, 'I've got to make a responsible decision no matter the outcome. And if citizens decide that because I voted for this budget, I don't need to sit here, so be it. I'm to do the thing that's necessary right now based upon what I have been presented with, based upon what I have seen, and based upon the needs of this city.'"
   "It is the first budget that I have seen that is a budget reinvesting in our city, prioritizing the things that we need to do. And a fire truck now versus a fire truck later… The fire truck that we purchase now, if we put it down the road it, is going to cost us almost twice as much. So, we must look at and be responsible for the things that we as a governing board need to do."
   "And I just would encourage us, like the mayor said, regardless of how we vote, regardless of the outcome, we have to support whatever the majority has done. I just ask that each one of us just look at this, have the courage to be responsible, and do what we need to do and do, and support the city manager," she explained. "Because we said together we needed a change. We said together we needed to go in a different direction. And the city manager told us when he came on board, after he had been here about three weeks and began to assess things, 'You all are going to have to make some hard decisions.' And so, he kept his word."
   The vote passed 5 to 1, with Councilman Jimmy West voting against. Councilman Mike Butler was not in attendance.

KM man wins $1M Powerball Saturday

Toney Peavey of Kings Mountain took a chance on a $2 Powerball ticket and won a $1 million prize in Saturday’s drawing.
Peavey bought his lucky Quick Pick ticket from the Circle K on Cleveland Avenue in Kings Mountain. He matched numbers on all five white balls to win $1 million.
Peavey claimed his prize Friday at lottery headquarters and, after required federal and state tax withholdings, took home $712,501.
Saturday’s Powerball drawing offers a $308 million jackpot, or $160.1 million in cash. The odds of winning a Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million.
Ticket sales from draw games like Powerball make it possible for the lottery to raise $2.5 million a day on average for education. Cleveland County received $28.5 million in grants, using funds raised by the lottery, to help with school construction.
How do NC Education Lottery funds benefit Cleveland County? In 2022, $13,491,646 was reinvested into the county, including $639,754 for Pre-K programs, $313,098 toward college scholarships, $92,353 in financial aid, $3,473,308 in Non-Instructional Support, $152,633 in school transportation support, and $8,820,500 in school construction.

About Kings Mountain Herald

Kings Mountain Herald is the paper of choice in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. Born 1888, with a focus on hometown news, the Herald continues to bring you the stories that matter. They matter to us because you matter to us. The Kings Mountain Herald is a locally owned and operated publication that has served the community for over 100 years.

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Friday: 8:00am - 3:00pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed

A mother-daughterdefining moment

The Davidson Association Health Fair a huge success

What is Kings Mountain Forward?

First COKM CitizensAcademy starts Sept. 28

Back-to-school forCleveland County school students

The Skillet is open downtown

732 families benefit from OTC giveaway, Albemarle Lithium played a key role

School orientationmeeting schedule

Golf Cart Parade addedto BeachBlast Festival

Beware of individuals claiming to be with CCS

Registration for afterschool careat North and Bethwareis now open

Chat with Chief

Coffee & Conversationwith the city manager

NC BeachBlast Festivalreturns Aug. 18 and 19

How to enroll your student in Cleveland County Schools

Country artist Chris Lane says ‘Howdy’ to Cleveland County

IMC – Metals Americaplans major expansions

Missing Madalina Cojocari brings child exploitationto our doorsteps

Rezoning requested forproperty near El Bethel Road

Missing Gaston County teen

Challengers emerge in three municipal races

CCS Back-to-SchoolBook Bash July 27

Legislators discussingfour new casinos in NC

Pickin' at the Park atKM Patriot's ParkThursday evening

Bolin’s Day Careunder new ownership