CAROLINA TROPHIES “Awards for All Occasions” 12/31/25
704-482-2392
Volume 137 • Issue 17
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
www.carolinatrophies.com
kmherald.com • 704-484-1047
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Todd Carpenter Coats Patrick Yarn Mill appointed as KM’s City Manager closing December 31 The City of Kings Mountain is pleased to announce Todd Carpenter's appointment as its new City Manager. Following a unanimous vote by the City Council on Thursday, April 3, 2025, Mr. Carpenter officially assumed the role on April 13, 2025. Mr. Carpenter brings an impressive 39-year career in public service, having held key leadership roles in local government. His extensive experience includes serving as a software developer, advancing through several critical IT positions, including Chief Information Officer before transitioning into executive leadership as Assistant City Manager, HR Director, and ultimately Deputy City Manager for the City of Gastonia. He retired from Gastonia after 38 years of distinguished service. Since his retirement, Mr.
TODD CARPENTER Carpenter has continued to serve local communities in interim capacities, most recently as Interim County Manager for Cleveland County in 2023. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) in Management Information Systems from Western Carolina University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from See CARPENTER, Page 4A
A long-time Kings Mountain based textile facility is closing by the end of the year, putting 173 associates out of work, according to a N.C. Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act report. Patrick Yarn Mill Inc., with corporate offices at 501 York Road Kings Mountain will close Dec. 31st, the WARN report filed Monday with the North Carolina Department of Commerce said. The plant, which specializes in cut-resistant and flame-resistant yarns, is about 35 miles west of Charlotte. It previously, before purchased by London based Coats in 2017, had been a private, locally owned, family company started in 1963 by the late H.L. Patrick. Patrick Yarns, while owned by the Patrick Family, grew from its original
Coats Main Offices product of mop yarns, to becoming a globally recognized supplier of technical engineered yarns for an array of end-uses. The company has registered over 13 patents and more than 25 trademarks, in ad-
dition to having multiple proprietary yarns that are not patented to prevent imitation by Asian manufacturers. Patrick trademarked Earthspun® in the early 2000’s to highlight the superior quality of Pat-
rick Yarns' products compared to other recycled yarns, both foreign and domestic. In 2010, Patrick trademarked Spun by the Sun® after completing Charlotte’s largest private See COATS, Page 4A
Celebrate and honor cancer survivors on May 3 in Patriots Park Join the Kings Mountain Relay Community to celebrate survivors, to honor and remember loved ones, and fight back against cancer on May 3, at 5 p.m. in Patriots Park, followed by a Live Music Concert. For 40 years, passionate supporters have come together to advance the American Cancer Society’s vision: ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. Relay for Life celebrates survivors, honors caregivers, remembers loved ones lost, and raises funds to ensure that everyone has the chance to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.
Relay for Life White Luminaria Bag for $10: Light a candle in honor of or in memory of a friend or loved one who has had cancer, or in support of a caregiver. Scan the QR Code below to reserve your luminaria. Your contribution will help save lives, give hope, and empower people through the American Cancer Society and its lifesaving mission. Photos of loved ones can be sent to MTE@cityofkm.com to be honored on the big screen at Patriots Park before the Bantum Rooster Concert on Saturday, May 3. See SURVIVORS , Page 4A
Kings Mountain Historical Museum (KMHM) will hold an appreciation barbecue for its members on Saturday, April 26. The event will start at 4 p.m. with trivia, followed by dinner at 5 p.m. “Please join us for an evening outdoors to show our gratitude for your continued support,” said KMHM Direc-
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month The GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman's Club, in partnership with the Kings Mountain Police Department, planted a pinwheel garden on April 1 on the corner of Piedmont Avenue and Mountain Street. Child Abuse Preven-
tion Month (CAPM) is recognized each April, a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect. This month provides an opportunity to highlight the critical role that supportive com-
munities and services play in strengthening families and ensuring the safety and well-being of children. By advocating for increased investment in evidence-based programs and fostering connections with organizations across North Carolina, we
can work together to create a safer, brighter future for all children. The event is sponsored by the Civic Engagement and Outreach Community Service Program of the GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman's Club.
Cherryville’s Cherry Blossom Festival this weekend
KMHM to hold member appreciation BBQ Saturday By Loretta Cozart
Kings Mountain Woman's Club and KMPD pause after placing pinwheels outside the Police Department to raise awareness of Child Abuse Awareness Month. (Photo by Anne Gamble)
tor & Curator Michael Turner Webb. T h e museum is at 100 E. Mountain Street in Kings Mountain and is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To discover more about upcoming exhibits and events, visit www.kingsmountainmuseum.org or call (704) 739-1019.
By Loretta Cozart Get ready for a weekend packed with excitement at the annual Cherry Blossom Festival on April 25th and 26th! You won’t want to miss this fun-filled weekend just down the road from Kings Mountain. The Cherryville Chamber of Commerce proudly sponsors the Cherry Blossom Festival. Friday Night Kickoff Start your weekend with a bang at the Miss Cherry Blossom Pageant at 6 p.m.!
After the pageant, dance the night away with live entertainment from the Backwater Band and DJ Johnny B! Plus, food vendors will be serving up all your favorites, and there are inflatables for the little ones to have a blast!
Saturday Fun Continues - An amazing car show is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – it’s the perfect spot for car lovers and families alike! You can also browse through a treasure trove of unique creations from area arts and craft vendors and
grab delicious bites from the food and beverage stands. If you’re up for a challenge, lace up your shoes for the YMCA’s Bubble Mile at 9 a.m., and the 5K race at 10 a.m. – it’s sure to get your blood pumping for a good cause! Kenzie’s Dancin’ Out will take the stage from noon to 1 p.m. Are you a regional vendor? The chamber would love to have you showcase your amazing products and See CHERRY BLOSSOM
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