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L-R: John and Ashley Herndon and Jan and David Stone.

Patriot Jack’s Outfitters
under new ownership

By Loretta Cozart

On Thursday, August 31, Jan and David Stone, owners of the Imperial Mercantile in downtown Kings Mountain, took ownership of Patriot Jack’s Outfitters at 832 E King St, Kings Mountain from John and Ashley Herndon.
The Stones shared that they “are thankful to John and Ashley Herndon and their contribution to keeping Patriot Jack’s a thriving business in Kings Mountain, NC, and are excited about this new venture and the changes in store!”
   Patriot Jacks Outfitters carries a variety of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories and has been locally owned and operated at this location since opening in September 2010.

 
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The building located at 124 W. Mountain Street has been condemned by City of Kings Mountain. Photo by Loretta Cozart

City, KM Forward
responds to story
 

By Loretta Cozart

On August 30, the Gaston Gazette published a story about the condemnation of the building at 124 W. Mountain Street in Kings Mountain. The story stated, “At the July 25 meeting, Kings Mountain City Council agreed to give $2,500 to Lahti as ‘a business that had been displaced by city actions.’”
The Herald reached out to City Manager Jim Palenick for comment regarding the article and received the following statement, “Upon recognizing that the building that housed the Uncommon Artisans and Medusa Coffee Company businesses was deemed to be unsafe, no longer allowable for occupancy, and in such state of disrepair as to require City Council action to order repairs or face demolition, I personally approached KM Forward, through their Board President, David Stone, to inform him that the Businesses would have to find an alternate location because City Council action was likely imminent.
   “I felt KM Forward was best suited to assist the
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From Page 1A
to-be-displaced businesses in finding a suitable site for relocation within the Kings Mountain Downtown. Mr. Stone then immediately approached the Uncommon Artisans owner, Ms. Lahti to inform her of the likely pending Council action and to offer assistance in securing an adequate location in Kings Mountain to relocate.
   “Further discussions between the City and KM Forward resulted in the City and KM Forward agreeing, and City Council approving (on July 25th), that the City of Kings Mountain would approve an amendment to our contract with KM Forward to increase their contractual compensation by $2500, with the understanding that KM Forward would, in turn, match that amount with an additional $2500 in its own funds, to provide for up to $5,000 total in Grant assistance to aid in covering portions of expenses, including possible increases in rent, toward relocating the Uncommon Artisans and Medusa Coffee to an alternate relocation site within Downtown Kings Mountain.
   “There was to be no payments or stipends to the displaced businesses simply because of displacement, but rather the City and KM Forward came together to create, in essence, an economic development grant opportunity that would be available if and when a suitable relocation site was identified, and the business(es) moved thereto. The Grant funding rests with KM Forward and any determination of eligibility for, or distribution of said monies rests with that entity.
   The Herald also requested a statement from KM Forward’s David Stone, and received this reply, “In my capacity as President of KM Forward, I want to share that the facts the city manager outlined are consistent with how the city engaged KM Forward.
   “KM Forward immediately reached out to the business owners of Uncommon Artisan and Gold Medusa Coffee to communicate the impending condemnation. KM Forward pulled together also to try to assist by asking the city to provide the businesses with 30 days to vacate which the city granted in the July city council meeting. We also contacted other property owners to try and connect the business owners with potential leasable space in the city of Kings Mountain.  
   “Lastly, KM Forward, recognizing that this condemnation was not the first the city has initiated on a downtown property, determined the need to support businesses impacted by condemnations, and created a Condemnation Grant program.  
   “The condemnation grant is available to businesses in the Central Business District who become impacted by building condemnations when the building owners don't maintain their buildings. The guidelines for that program have been emailed to the business owner. If the business owner meets the terms of the condemnation grant which require that they relocate in the Central Business District, they can apply for the grant.
   “Please note that this is the first grant program established by KM Forward and as a new organization with the mission to  Build a community of citizens and business leaders to advocate for Kings Mountain as a place to live, play, shop, explore, and invest. Promoting the economic, social, and cultural environment throughout the city, we plan over the next year to identify other opportunities to support the economic development of our local business community.”
   If you want to watch the video, visit vimeo.com/showcase/cityofkm, click on the July 25 meeting, and click the blue “Start Watching” button.

 
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Mountaineers for a
Better Community
hosts candidate forum

By Loretta Cozart

   On Monday, October 9, at 6 p.m., Mountaineers for a Better Community (KM Better) will host a candidate forum at Central United Methodist Church’s Christian Activity Center at 113 S. Piedmont Avenue in Kings Mountain.
   KM Better is a non-profit and nonpartisan organization encouraging community education and transparency to promote a forward-thinking vision for the future of Kings Mountain.
The forum will include mayoral and city council candidates, providing an excellent opportunity for citizens to learn more about the city's issues and how each candidate plans to address those challenges while keeping the
See FORUM, Page 5A
forum growth of the local economy at the forefront.
   The forum will also allow candidates to share their vision for Kings Mountain and why they are running for office. This free event is open to the public.  
   During the forum, candidates will answer questions critical to the community. The event will be recorded during the forum and later air on Cleveland Community College’s C19.
   Early voting will occur from October 19 through November 4; election day is Tuesday, November 7. Kings Mountain Polling locations are Patrick Senior Center, 909 E King Street, Kings Mountain, and Mauney Memorial Library, 100 S. Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain. It is important to note that photo IDs are now required for all municipal elections.
   If you do not know your Polling Place, visit the Cleveland County Board of Elections at 15 Patton Dr. in Shelby or call (704) 484-4858. 
   KM Better has three main goals:
• To foster conversations with the community about our collective future – what it holds and how we get there. We will always prioritize transparency, accountability, and engage-ment when it comes to City Government.
• To add knowledgeable voices to important conversations – to ensure that ALL citizens are involved and educated when it comes to important issues facing our city.
• To create change – for the better. This comes from engagement and education, but also col-lective action towards a forward-looking vision for Kings Mountain.
   For more information about Mountaineers for a Better Community, please visit https://www.betterkm.com.

Papers filed for 384-acre mixed
use project in Dixon community

Insignis Partners, an investment and real estate development firm, filed plans Wednesday with the City of Kings Mountain to rezone a 384-acre property along a growing economic development corridor. The request would facilitate a mixed-use project with up to 5 million square feet of new buildings and is one of the largest development proposals in the city’s history.
The Dixon Ridge project envisions a vibrant mix of industrial, research and development, and residential space at a key intersection on Interstate 85 near Dixon School Road. Insignis' plans include over 57 acres of open space, pickleball and tennis courts, parks, walking trails, and a greenway trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists connecting to nearby city-owned lake properties.
The request includes an application to rezone the property to a new Planned Development District and a development agreement outlining terms between Insignis and the city. Insignis expects the project to exceed $750 million in value at full build-out. It has committed to developing the project exclusively within the City of Kings Mountain’s jurisdiction, ensuring the city will benefit from property taxes and development and utility fees to be paid by the project.
Both Insignis and Kings Mountain leaders are excited about how the project fits into the growth of Cleveland and Gaston counties. The project will help spur new economic investment and job creation, and Insignis views it as a collaborative effort with the city.
"We’re excited to introduce Dixon Ridge to the Kings Mountain, NC market," Insignis Managing Partner and Co-Founder Paul Sparks said. "Submitting our application for this project is such a significant step forward for something that’s taken us 18 months  to create and fine-tune. And now, everything becomes a lot more real, which is exciting."
Kings Mountain City Manager Jim Palenick joined the city last year after spending the past seven years in local government leadership positions in the Midwest. He's confident the proposed Dixon Ridge project will help fuel Kings Mountain's economy for years.
"We see this development as truly transformational to the community and
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From Page 1A
the region," Palenick said. "Much like Research Triangle Park has come to define the Raleigh-Durham metro, Dixon Ridge presents a similarly seminal opportunity for the future of Kings Mountain."
“Dixon Ridge is an exciting project that has been planned with the utmost care to be what the de-veloper and city desire for the future of Kings Mountain. It addresses our housing needs and pro-vides good paying jobs for our citizens,” Mayor Neisler said. “Thanks to our city manager and In-signis Partners’ Development team for working so hard on this project that took many months to hammer out. It also serves as a template for future development that will surely streamline the pro-cess of our city's economic development to keep our city moving forward ” 
The rezoning and development agreement filing begins a public process to unfold over the next several months. Both Kings Mountain staff and elected officials will review the project moving forward.
Parker Poe partner Jamie Schwedler, leader of the firm's Development Services Industry Team, and associate Matthew Carpenter serve as land use attorneys for Insignis and have worked closely with City of Kings Mountain staff.

 

Thrive Kings Mountain opposes
Dixon Ridge development

By Loretta Cozart

Thrive Kings Mountain released a statement on Thursday, August 31, expressing their opposition to the proposed Dixon Ridge development. According to spokesperson Christina Hildebrand, the organization obtained the proposed plans and found them to be unfavorable. Specifically, Thrive Kings Mountain opposes the proposed dense residential housing on the side of Shepard Mountain with access from Alex D Owens Drive, as well as the proposed over 3 million square feet of industrial and office space.
The statement shared that the development “looks small, but these buildings will be HUGE…a football field is 57,600 sq ft.  The industrial office space covers over 50 football fields. The residential area is over 40 football fields.”
The primary concern for the Shepard Mountain community is that “the topography of this area with steep hillsides, creeks, and rock formations will require significant blasting of the hillside, which will cause severe ecological damage to the area as well as reduce property values significantly.”
In January, Thrive Kings Mountain opposed the 3.5 million square feet warehouse space proposed by development partners Insignis Partners and Panattoni Development Co. Inc. with more than 200 acres. The newly announced Dixon Ridge encompasses 300 acres.
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Swearing-in and promotions at KMPD – Pictured L-R: Chief Gerald Childress, Assistant Chief Chris Moore, Patrol Sergeant Jason Dee, Patrol Captain Buddy Black, Officer Ronald Hamrick, and Lt. Lance Hamrick. Photo by KMPD

KM Police Department Officer
swearing-in and promotions

On Wednesday, August 16, Officer Ronald Hamrick was issued his oath of office by Mayor Scott Neisler. Sergeant Buddy Black was promoted to Patrol Captain and Corporal Jason Dee was promoted to Patrol Sergeant.
“Kings Mountain Police Department is excited to welcome Officer Hamrick to our family, and we appreciate the continuous leadership and dedication of Captain Black and Sergeant Dee,” KMPD shared on their Facebook page.
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KM Crisis Ministry
needs your help

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry (KMCM), an emergency organization sponsored by the Kings Mountain Ministerial Association, helps individuals and families in need in our community. With summer requests high, and school back in session, the ministry is asking the community for help.
As of the end of July, KMCM has served as many people as they did during the entire year in 2022. And five months remain in the year.
According to Executive Director Lisa Harrison, “We are seeing record numbers of people needing food and
 as soon as we get a big food order in, it’s all gone within a day or two! We really could use anything, but here are some of the most needed items:
• Peanut Butter
• Jelly
• Spaghetti Sauce and pasta
• Canned vegetables
• Canned meat-tuna, chicken, Spam, salmon, Vienna sausages, etc.
• Cans of soup
• Canned Fruit or Fruit cups
• Macaroni and Cheese
• Rice
• Oatmeal
• Grits
• Crackers
• Boxes of Cereal
• Paper towels and toilet tissue
• Sugar
• Flour
Cooking oil
• Shampoo
• Soap
• Razors and Shaving cream
• Bibles
KMCM is a Second Harvest Food Pantry and receives donations of fresh produce, deli, and bakery items from Food Lion and Walmart. They receive can goods from many businesses, churches, and individuals that hold food drives and donate food monthly. Local realtors leave door hangers, and many individuals support the mission through them.
The ministry receives funding from local churches, individuals, United Way, the City of Kings Mountain, grants, charitable organizations, and fundraisers. The City of Kings Mountain provides office space and facilities at the YMCA free of charge.
Those applying for assistance must meet certain criteria and provide all the following items: driver’s license or picture ID of all adults in the household, Social Security CARDS of all in the household (adults & children), proof of income/money received in last 30 days, copy of DSS Food Stamp Letter, proof of residency (correct name & address), and proof showing why in crisis - any receipts, statement, etc.
Anticipating greater needs from people, and due to rising inflation, KMCM is looking for partners, both individual and corporate, to become monthly donors. For more information or to make an online donation, visit www.kmcrisisministry.org.
   The Kings Mountain Crisis Ministry is located on the back, right side, of the YMCA building. Visitors can park at the outside pool area. The ministry is open for donations, food, clothes, and financial assistance on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Call 704-739-7256 to make an appointment. Items needed are clothing and linens. No furniture or other household items are accepted.
   Board member Ricky Yow is also a member of Battleground Community Church that supports KMCM and suggests if people want to make donations outside the ministry’s hours, donors can call 704-734-5419 and schedule a time to drop-off donations at 309 S Battleground Avenue instead. They will take them to the ministry.
   “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – MATTHEW 11:28

 
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NC BeachBlast Festival
draws crowds to KM

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain’s NC BeachBlast Festival attracted large crowds downtown on August 18th and 19th. This family-friendly event offered music, food, and activities for all ages. The festival began at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 18th with CBMA Award Winners DJ Eric Bowman and Too Much Sylvia. The following day featured performances by Jim Quick and Coastline, Cat5 Band, Swinging Medallions, and Band of Oz. Children and adults alike stayed busy with various activities provided by the City of Kings Mountain Special Events.

See more photos on page 5A of the August 23, 2023 issue of KM Herald
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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.

 
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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.
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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.
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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

 
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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


 
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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
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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.

 
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Too Much Sylvia plays Friday, August 18 at 6:30 p.m. Photos provided
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Jim Quick and Coastline play Saturday at morning at 10 a.m.
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Cat5 Band keeps the music flowing at 1 p.m.
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Swingin’ Medallions go on stage Saturday at 4 p.m.
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Band of Oz plays at Patriots Park on Saturday at 7 p.m.
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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.
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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.
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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
See IMC, Page 4A
From Page 1A
 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.
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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.
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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.

 
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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.
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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.

 
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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.
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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.
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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.
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“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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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Band of Oz
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Swingin Medallions
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Cat5 Band
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Jim Quick & Coastline
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.