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Volume 137 • Issue 38
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
kmherald.com • 704-484-1047
75¢
Clev. Co. Fair starts Sept. 25
FINKELSTEIN 3
September Nights
Finkelstein 3 expected to draw a crowd September 25 By Loretta Cozart In what was possibly the fastest September on record, or so it seemed, Thursday evenings were filled with music at Patriots Park. Last week’s performance featured Black Coffee Quartet, a four-piece jazz group that drew a crowd. The arrangements were complex, surprising those gathered with each song. Both the young and young at heart enjoyed a fantastic night of music at the gazebo. This Thursday, September 25, at 6 p.m., we’re wrapping up Kings Mountain Special Events’ September Nights concert
series with the amazing Finkelstein 3! Fresh off their performance at the Cherry Bounce Festival, this talented trio is ready to blow you away with their unique sound. Influenced by legends like Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and David Grisman, they mix bluegrass with various other genres to create something truly special. So, gather your friends, grab your favorite chair, and join us for one last magical evening under the stars at the Gazebo in Patriots Park! As summer transitions into fall, let’s celebrate this vibrant community gathering! See you there; let's make some beautiful memories!
Charges dropped against Padgett By Loretta Cozart On September 15, charges were officially dropped against Edward Ray Padgett, 37, who had been accused by his fiancée of assault with a deadly weapon, specifically related to an incident on August 31 in which she was shot in the thigh. Padgett was arrested on September 1 and subsequently released on a $100,000 bond the following day after his initial
court appearance. Considering her concerns for her safety and that of her child, the fiancé sought a 50B domestic violence protective order. A hearing to consider extending this order was scheduled for September 15. During this hearing, the fiancée expressed her desire to have the charges dropped. When questioned by the judge about whether she had faced any coercion or threats, she affirmed that she had not. Throughout the investigation, Padgett was placed on suspension from the Kings Mountain Police Department without pay.
For over a century, the Cleveland County Agricultural Fair has been a cherished tradition in North Carolina. Since its start in 1924, the fair has brought families together to celebrate agriculture, community, and good old-fashioned fun. From livestock shows and local exhibits to thrilling rides and live entertainment, the fair continues to honor its roots while evolving with each generation. Now the largest county fair in North Carolina, it welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually—proof that its legacy is as strong
as ever. As we mark 101 years, the Cleveland County Fair remains a place where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and everyone feels right at home. Cleveland County Fair Inc. is an agricultural organization assisting the development of agricultural education resources in the county and annually includes family fun and entertainment. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), and $5 for kids ages 6-12, plus tax. Ride ticket prices range from $3 (2 tickets) to $55 (55 tickets). Ad-
vance-purchase Armbands, good for any one day, including rides but not including entry admission to the fair, are available for presale for just $25 plus tax, if purchased online before September 25. Tuesday, September 30 is $15 Armband Day. Tickets are on sale at https://clevelandcountyfair.com/. Schedule: • Thursday, September 25: Gate 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Midway 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Friday, September 26: Gate 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 3:00 p.m. -
10:00 p.m. | Midway 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Saturday, September 27: Gate 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. | Midway 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Sunday, September 28: Gate 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. | Midway 12:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Monday, September 29: Gate 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Midway 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Tuesday, September 30: Gate 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall 12:00 See FAIR, Page 5A
KMPD receives state accreditation On September 9, during the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting at City Hall, the Kings Mountain Police Department was formally presented with a Certificate of Accreditation by Bill Hollingsed, Chairman of the North Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Committee. This distinguished recognition reflects the department's successful completion of 116 rigorous standards of professional excellence. The accreditation process involved months of disciplined work, including thorough policy review, extensive training, detailed documentation, and exceptional professionalism demonstrated by officers and staff across the department. Special recognition was extended to Police Chief Gerald Childress, the Police Department Command Staff, Accreditation Manager Toni Mode, and the entire department for their dedication to the process. Jennifer Harris, who served as the department’s Accreditation Mentor, was
KMPD receives state accreditation – Photo by City of Kings Mountain also commended for her valuable support and guidance throughout the accreditation journey. Accreditation brings numerous benefits to the City of Kings Mountain and its residents, including increased public confidence, reduced departmental risk and liability, improved officer development and retention, and an enhanced reputation as a forward-looking and
professional municipality. Importantly, this achievement is not a conclusion, but rather a commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining the highest standards of law enforcement. Mayor Rob Wagman read a formal resolution during the meeting, recognizing the exceptional professionalism of the Kings Mountain Police Department and congratulating
them on becoming only the ninth law enforcement agency in the state of North Carolina to earn this prestigious accreditation status. The City of Kings Mountain commends the Police Department for its hard work and dedication in achieving this milestone and remains proud of the department's unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community with excellence.
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